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Hollywood Heat #2
Nowhere To Hide
No celebrity secret stays buried for long in USA Today bestselling author Leslie A. Kelly's sexy and suspenseful Hollywood Heat series.
A cold case is suddenly too hot to handle
Police officer Rowan Winchester wants nothing to do with his family's A-list Hollywood legacy. Working with the LAPD is his way of atoning for the Winchesters' dark and secretive past. And, right now, the last thing Rowan needs is true-crime novelist Evie Fleming nosing around the most notorious deaths in Los Angeles - including the ones that haunt his own family.
To make things worse, he's torn between wanting the wickedly smart writer out of his city... and just plain wanting her.
While researching her latest book, Evie suspects that a dangerous new killer is prowling the City of Angels. Now she just has to convince the devastatingly handsome cop that she's right. Soon Evie and Rowan are working together to try to find the killer, even as their attraction ignites.
But when the killer hones in on Evie, she and Rowan realize they'll have to solve this case fast if they want to stay alive.
The Hollywood Heat series:
Watching You
Wanting You
Waiting for You
A cold case is suddenly too hot to handle
Police officer Rowan Winchester wants nothing to do with his family's A-list Hollywood legacy. Working with the LAPD is his way of atoning for the Winchesters' dark and secretive past. And, right now, the last thing Rowan needs is true-crime novelist Evie Fleming nosing around the most notorious deaths in Los Angeles - including the ones that haunt his own family.
To make things worse, he's torn between wanting the wickedly smart writer out of his city... and just plain wanting her.
While researching her latest book, Evie suspects that a dangerous new killer is prowling the City of Angels. Now she just has to convince the devastatingly handsome cop that she's right. Soon Evie and Rowan are working together to try to find the killer, even as their attraction ignites.
But when the killer hones in on Evie, she and Rowan realize they'll have to solve this case fast if they want to stay alive.
The Hollywood Heat series:
Watching You
Wanting You
Waiting for You
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2018
18 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Leslie A. Kelly
25 books120 followersLeslie A. Kelly is a New York Times Bestselling author of more than fifty novels in various genres. She writes contemporary romances--usually funny and sexy--as Leslie Kelly. The middle initial--A.--means a thrilling, dark suspense novel, like one of her Black CATs or Veronica Sloan titles.
She lives in Maryland with her husband and their daughters.
See also the following GoodReads author's profiles:
Leslie Kelly
Leslie A. Smith
Leslie Parrish
She lives in Maryland with her husband and their daughters.
See also the following GoodReads author's profiles:
Leslie Kelly
Leslie A. Smith
Leslie Parrish
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 29, 2020
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Nowhere to Hide continues the Winchester brothers' story, this time following Rowan as he rescues Evie and becomes attracted and entwined in murder mysteries. If you haven't read the first in the series, Rowan's twin brother Reece's book (I'll Be Watching You) introduced readers to the Winchester family, brothers that grew up in Hollywood. Rowan is out of the acting business and is a detective now. The author does a good job rehashing important points, the brother's sister's death that impacted them all and learning a secret about their Hollywood agent, Harry Baker, and his murder. You could easily start here as Evie is a new character to the series and while the story continues some plot threads from the first, it also takes on new ground.
What secret was Rowan hiding about Harry Baker that made him pretend he felt nothing for her when she knew damn well he did?
Evie was a great character, she's a true crime novelist that survived her own entanglement with a serial killer. Her roommate was killed by Evie's mechanic, Evie put together the puzzle pieces to discover he was a serial killer. She's now in Hollywood to research infamous murders for a new book she is writing. Through her research she also thinks she might have discovered a new serial killer, yeah, there is a lot of murder in this book. Along with Evie's baggage of having a serial killer in her life, the killer is trying to get a new trial so she might have to testify again, research for her infamous murders book, investigating a possible undiscovered serial killer, she also wants to do a chapter on Harry Baker. This brings in the conflict between her and Rowan, he wants nothing brought up about Baker because of how it could put the spotlight on his brothers again and bring possible ramifications.
And here he was, about to spend another glorious day with the woman he wanted an insane amount but had to pretend he did not.
From their first meeting when Rowan helps to save Evie from a possible mugging, physical attack, he and Evie had some heat. He's fully aware that it is not the time to come on strong to her but as circumstances get them to spend more time together, they both lean more towards each other. When he learns that Evie wants to write about Harry Baker, he gives her the deep freeze. These two move from hot to cold and the middle of the book is filled more with redherrings and murder mystery. The latter half then moves to the bedroom (there is some credible emotional work to move Rowan there) and then they jump to love pretty quickly. I ended up feeling like the romance was only around twenty percent of this book; Evie and Rowan do spend a good amount of time together, the focus just wasn't enough on the relationship side as the murders plot.
He covered her hand with his. Their fingers entwined. Finally, he said, “Okay, Evie. I'm in.”
While redherrings are great and keep the guessing and mystery alive, some of them in the story ended up feeling pointless and clogging. When reveals happened, it made me feel misled in some secondary characters that had me questioning the point of them because of how their conclusion was wrapped up or just left to fade away. There really was just too much on the murder plate and it hampered not only the romance between Rowan and Evie but also the continued plot thread involving the Winchester brother's sister's death and the murder of Harry Baker. There is still an intriguing readability to this author's writing and with some unanswered questions for the last Winchester brother Raine to discover, I'll be reading the next in the series.
Nowhere to Hide continues the Winchester brothers' story, this time following Rowan as he rescues Evie and becomes attracted and entwined in murder mysteries. If you haven't read the first in the series, Rowan's twin brother Reece's book (I'll Be Watching You) introduced readers to the Winchester family, brothers that grew up in Hollywood. Rowan is out of the acting business and is a detective now. The author does a good job rehashing important points, the brother's sister's death that impacted them all and learning a secret about their Hollywood agent, Harry Baker, and his murder. You could easily start here as Evie is a new character to the series and while the story continues some plot threads from the first, it also takes on new ground.
What secret was Rowan hiding about Harry Baker that made him pretend he felt nothing for her when she knew damn well he did?
Evie was a great character, she's a true crime novelist that survived her own entanglement with a serial killer. Her roommate was killed by Evie's mechanic, Evie put together the puzzle pieces to discover he was a serial killer. She's now in Hollywood to research infamous murders for a new book she is writing. Through her research she also thinks she might have discovered a new serial killer, yeah, there is a lot of murder in this book. Along with Evie's baggage of having a serial killer in her life, the killer is trying to get a new trial so she might have to testify again, research for her infamous murders book, investigating a possible undiscovered serial killer, she also wants to do a chapter on Harry Baker. This brings in the conflict between her and Rowan, he wants nothing brought up about Baker because of how it could put the spotlight on his brothers again and bring possible ramifications.
And here he was, about to spend another glorious day with the woman he wanted an insane amount but had to pretend he did not.
From their first meeting when Rowan helps to save Evie from a possible mugging, physical attack, he and Evie had some heat. He's fully aware that it is not the time to come on strong to her but as circumstances get them to spend more time together, they both lean more towards each other. When he learns that Evie wants to write about Harry Baker, he gives her the deep freeze. These two move from hot to cold and the middle of the book is filled more with redherrings and murder mystery. The latter half then moves to the bedroom (there is some credible emotional work to move Rowan there) and then they jump to love pretty quickly. I ended up feeling like the romance was only around twenty percent of this book; Evie and Rowan do spend a good amount of time together, the focus just wasn't enough on the relationship side as the murders plot.
He covered her hand with his. Their fingers entwined. Finally, he said, “Okay, Evie. I'm in.”
While redherrings are great and keep the guessing and mystery alive, some of them in the story ended up feeling pointless and clogging. When reveals happened, it made me feel misled in some secondary characters that had me questioning the point of them because of how their conclusion was wrapped up or just left to fade away. There really was just too much on the murder plate and it hampered not only the romance between Rowan and Evie but also the continued plot thread involving the Winchester brother's sister's death and the murder of Harry Baker. There is still an intriguing readability to this author's writing and with some unanswered questions for the last Winchester brother Raine to discover, I'll be reading the next in the series.
September 9, 2020
Nowhere to Hide starts off with a bang sucking me into the story right away. There’s a lot of danger, and suspense wondering if Evie will be safe and not knowing exactly who is behind the sinister threat hanging over her. I really liked Evie, and her inquisitive spirit. I will say some of her actions in the end bordered on TSTL, and resulted in a tragedy, but technically it wasn’t her decision in the moment so I can’t really say it was all her. Still, it was a bit annoying.
The romance was a slow burn, and even though both were attracted at first meet there were some obstacles to overcome before either would give into their desire. Rowan was hesitant because he didn’t fully trust, at first, Evie’s intentions. Was worried if he let her in, she’d betray the family’s secrets, but I liked how it all turned out.
Nowhere to Hide was a nice blend of action, mystery, danger, and romance. There was a mystery that wraps up in this installment, but there’s also a mystery arc started in the first book involving the Winchester’s sister, their agent and the brothers that isn’t yet solved. I didn’t read the first book and I didn’t feel too left out of the loop. I’m eager to see how it all turns out in the next book.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
The romance was a slow burn, and even though both were attracted at first meet there were some obstacles to overcome before either would give into their desire. Rowan was hesitant because he didn’t fully trust, at first, Evie’s intentions. Was worried if he let her in, she’d betray the family’s secrets, but I liked how it all turned out.
Nowhere to Hide was a nice blend of action, mystery, danger, and romance. There was a mystery that wraps up in this installment, but there’s also a mystery arc started in the first book involving the Winchester’s sister, their agent and the brothers that isn’t yet solved. I didn’t read the first book and I didn’t feel too left out of the loop. I’m eager to see how it all turns out in the next book.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2018
This was a great book with a nice blend of mystery and romance. It's the second in the series but I read it without reading the first book with no problem. The story had a nice quick pace and the characters are very well developed. Evie is a true crime writer who is smart, quick and strong. Rowan is an LAPD detective assigned to work with Evie as she digs into unsolved murders for her latest book. Before long these two have dug up enough info to convince them there is an active serial killer in LA. Soon it's clear that Evie is in the killer's sights and Rowan will do whatever it takes to protect her.
I really enjoyed this thrilling story and would recommend it to everyone.
I really enjoyed this thrilling story and would recommend it to everyone.
August 3, 2018
Wanting You is the second in Leslie Kelly’s Hollywood Heat series. Picking up a few months after the first book left off, this one is twin brother Rowan’s story. Rowan saves true crime writer Evie Fleming from an apparently mugging gone wrong. Her self-proclaimed protector, Rowan then becomes her police consultant as Evie looks into LA serial killers and other notorious deaths. I really liked the interaction between Rowan and Evie. They complement each other well. Kelly is keeping this series interesting and I can’t wait for Raine’s book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
July 29, 2018
Leslie Kelly has been an auto-buy author for me since I read the very first Harlequin book by her years ago. While I adore her super sexy books, I have to say her romantic suspense books have always been my favorites. Wanting You hit on all my favorite things about a romantic suspense with the action starting on the very first page. I'm not going to lie, I wanted Rowan's story as soon as we met him in Watching You. I always find a favorite character when I know there is a trilogy, and usually have to wait for the third book to get that story. Was so happy Rowan's book was second in the series.
Rowan Winchester was one of the famous Winchester kids of Hollywood legend, but now is a police officer for the LAPD. When he stepped up to rescue Evie Fleming from an attack on the streets of LA, they both worked on the theory it was a random attack. However, as Evie is in Hollywood to look into many famous unsolved mysteries, the LAPD soon assigns Rowan to be her bodyguard of sorts. Let me just say the chemistry between Rowan and Evie was there pretty much from the very first. I loved seeing them move from cautious friends to lovers. It really did give me all the feels.
While the romance between them was strong, the suspense was the biggest focus of this book and I loved every single second of it. Just when I thought Ms. Kelly was going one way with the story, she totally and completely threw me off. I've been reading romantic suspense books for years, and have to say Watching You was one of the best ones I've ever read. I honestly make it my goal to figure out all the thought process of the bad guys before the reveal, and while I did have part of my theory correct, I was completely wrong in my final guess. I love when an author pulls me so deeply into the story, I don't want the story to end.
I also can't wait to find out the final truth to the mystery surrounding the Winchester family and the death of Harry Baker. I'm impatiently awaiting the final pieces of the puzzle in Waiting For You, which is currently scheduled for release in January 2019. I highly recommend Wanting You to fans of romantic suspense and have to say it is my favorite romantic suspense book I've read this year.
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
Rowan Winchester was one of the famous Winchester kids of Hollywood legend, but now is a police officer for the LAPD. When he stepped up to rescue Evie Fleming from an attack on the streets of LA, they both worked on the theory it was a random attack. However, as Evie is in Hollywood to look into many famous unsolved mysteries, the LAPD soon assigns Rowan to be her bodyguard of sorts. Let me just say the chemistry between Rowan and Evie was there pretty much from the very first. I loved seeing them move from cautious friends to lovers. It really did give me all the feels.
While the romance between them was strong, the suspense was the biggest focus of this book and I loved every single second of it. Just when I thought Ms. Kelly was going one way with the story, she totally and completely threw me off. I've been reading romantic suspense books for years, and have to say Watching You was one of the best ones I've ever read. I honestly make it my goal to figure out all the thought process of the bad guys before the reveal, and while I did have part of my theory correct, I was completely wrong in my final guess. I love when an author pulls me so deeply into the story, I don't want the story to end.
I also can't wait to find out the final truth to the mystery surrounding the Winchester family and the death of Harry Baker. I'm impatiently awaiting the final pieces of the puzzle in Waiting For You, which is currently scheduled for release in January 2019. I highly recommend Wanting You to fans of romantic suspense and have to say it is my favorite romantic suspense book I've read this year.
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
July 30, 2018
WOW!! What an emotional roller coast Wanting You by Leslie Kelly, book two in her Hollywood Heat series, took me on. This romantic suspense was edgy, dark, as well as being romantic and sexy. In addition there were some humorous scenes that made me laugh.
Evie Fleming is in Los Angeles researching her latest true-crime book when she is attacked out of nowhere. Police officer Rowan Winchester happens to be in the right place at the right time to stop Evie’s attacker from mugging her or possibly worse. Rowan ends up being assigned as a bodyguard to keep Evie safe. He also wants to make sure she that while she is nosing around the most notorious deaths in Los Angeles, that she not include the ones that haunt his own family. While researching her latest book, Evie suspects that there’s a new dangerous killer prowling the city killing women. Now Evie and Rowan are working together to try to find this killer, while their attraction grows. When the killer focuses on Evie, she and Rowan realize they'll have to solve this case fast if they want to stay alive.
Rowan is a wonderful, warm, awesome guy who tries to lighten moments for Evie, whose job keeps her immersed in dark deeds and twisted crimes. I loved how Rowan was teasing Evie about her fear of snakes while they were visiting the site of some very dark and horrific murders. She got back at him teasing him about his fear of spiders. It was nice seeing they could be funny among the darkness. At the same time I loved how in tune these two were while questioning former and current police officers who were involved with the unsolved cases of the murdered women; victims of this unknown serial killer.
Ms. Kelly wrote a dark, emotional, and intriguing story which kept me on my toes, guessing who the killer was, until I turned the last page. I’ll admit I was kept guessing who the murderer was up until the end, and I even ended up wrong at that. I welcomed the humorous scenes that lightened the darkness but emphasized the growing attraction between the main characters. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Evie Fleming is in Los Angeles researching her latest true-crime book when she is attacked out of nowhere. Police officer Rowan Winchester happens to be in the right place at the right time to stop Evie’s attacker from mugging her or possibly worse. Rowan ends up being assigned as a bodyguard to keep Evie safe. He also wants to make sure she that while she is nosing around the most notorious deaths in Los Angeles, that she not include the ones that haunt his own family. While researching her latest book, Evie suspects that there’s a new dangerous killer prowling the city killing women. Now Evie and Rowan are working together to try to find this killer, while their attraction grows. When the killer focuses on Evie, she and Rowan realize they'll have to solve this case fast if they want to stay alive.
Rowan is a wonderful, warm, awesome guy who tries to lighten moments for Evie, whose job keeps her immersed in dark deeds and twisted crimes. I loved how Rowan was teasing Evie about her fear of snakes while they were visiting the site of some very dark and horrific murders. She got back at him teasing him about his fear of spiders. It was nice seeing they could be funny among the darkness. At the same time I loved how in tune these two were while questioning former and current police officers who were involved with the unsolved cases of the murdered women; victims of this unknown serial killer.
Ms. Kelly wrote a dark, emotional, and intriguing story which kept me on my toes, guessing who the killer was, until I turned the last page. I’ll admit I was kept guessing who the murderer was up until the end, and I even ended up wrong at that. I welcomed the humorous scenes that lightened the darkness but emphasized the growing attraction between the main characters. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 25, 2020
Evie Sullivan has a knack for looking at crimes and finding missing information. After her friend was brutally killed and she was the key witness putting away her killer the last thing she wants to hear is this killer gets a new trial. In LA researching her new book and also a possible serial killer getting attacked was not in her plans nor was meeting sexy cop Rowan Winchester. Once Rowan found out she was a writer and what she was writing about he knew he need to make sure he kept his distance. Little he he know Evie has the answers his brothers have been looking for. Now to keep Evie safe from whoever was trying to hurt her and to avoid the chemistry between them. Yup that’s not gonna happen. Love these two together. So can’t wait for Raine’s book.
July 14, 2018
This kind of story is like my catnip - I can't get enough of it, and every time I find a book like this, I swoon just a little. It's got just about everything I like in contemporary romances - murder mystery, hot guy in a uniform, damsel in distress (who can actually kick butt too, but still), and romantic tension. The story centers around the romance, but it also has a major focus on Hollywood's darker side, the abuse of power in law enforcement, and murders left unsolved. It's always great to read a story with so many other elements to learn from.
Evie Fleming is a nonfiction writer, who has focused on murders and cold cases ever since her friend and roommate was murdered by a serial killer. Having discovered who the murderer was and sending him to jail, she has become famous, and so have her books. Her newest book is going to focus on murders in Los Angeles, so she has traveled to LA to research. But she has a secondary purpose to her visit to LA, one that has a much darker and dangerous intent, and when she is assaulted by a man on the street and saved by Detective Rowan Winchester, things get a little complicated. Rowan used to be a child actor, but after his sister was murdered, he left the limelight and joined law enforcement instead. His past is murky and not one he wants to relive, but that's exactly what Evie wants to talk to him about. As they grow closer, he tries to keep his distance, but as her safety continues to be compromised, he realizes that distance is not what he wants at all.
Evie and Rowan were definitely a couple a girl can get behind. Evie was smart, determined, and could hold her own in tough situations. Rowan was clever, protective, and kind, even when he had reason to be angry with Evie. She initially irritated me, as her journalistic instincts caused her to take a while to finally abide by Rowan's wishes. She wouldn't come right out and say, "Oh, I understand that it would hurt you, Rowan, so I won't do it." Instead, it took several chapters in the book before she recognized how her actions could hurt him. I didn't particularly like that side of her. Other than that, though, once they found a common purpose and stuck with it, their relationship really blossomed. They grew closer together and found strength in each other, which is exactly what I like to see in romance novels.
This is my first book by Leslie Kelly, and she has got me hooked on her books! I can't wait to see what she writes next.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Evie Fleming is a nonfiction writer, who has focused on murders and cold cases ever since her friend and roommate was murdered by a serial killer. Having discovered who the murderer was and sending him to jail, she has become famous, and so have her books. Her newest book is going to focus on murders in Los Angeles, so she has traveled to LA to research. But she has a secondary purpose to her visit to LA, one that has a much darker and dangerous intent, and when she is assaulted by a man on the street and saved by Detective Rowan Winchester, things get a little complicated. Rowan used to be a child actor, but after his sister was murdered, he left the limelight and joined law enforcement instead. His past is murky and not one he wants to relive, but that's exactly what Evie wants to talk to him about. As they grow closer, he tries to keep his distance, but as her safety continues to be compromised, he realizes that distance is not what he wants at all.
Evie and Rowan were definitely a couple a girl can get behind. Evie was smart, determined, and could hold her own in tough situations. Rowan was clever, protective, and kind, even when he had reason to be angry with Evie. She initially irritated me, as her journalistic instincts caused her to take a while to finally abide by Rowan's wishes. She wouldn't come right out and say, "Oh, I understand that it would hurt you, Rowan, so I won't do it." Instead, it took several chapters in the book before she recognized how her actions could hurt him. I didn't particularly like that side of her. Other than that, though, once they found a common purpose and stuck with it, their relationship really blossomed. They grew closer together and found strength in each other, which is exactly what I like to see in romance novels.
This is my first book by Leslie Kelly, and she has got me hooked on her books! I can't wait to see what she writes next.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
July 3, 2018
‘Wanting You’ reads more like a typical murder-mystery in the RS genre as compared to the previous book—since it involves law enforcement and a true crime writer—, which isn’t a bad thing. If Leslie A. Kelly’s first book in the series felt more like a glitzy portrayal of celebrity romance, Evie/Rowan’s story delves into the grittier side of violent crime in the seedy underbelly of Hollywood, with a lot less of the stardust that one would expect of this kind of story.
The book functions well as a standalone, but there’s a heavy reliance on a tragic narrative arc and a convoluted, mysterious back story involving child actors, fame and what might be cover-ups. Kelly recounts it just fine, so catching up wouldn’t be an issue at all if that’s a concern. Disparate pieces of the mystery did throw me off though, when I found myself struggling to make the connections between Rowan’s family history, Evie’s current writing project (and the dangers that brings on its own), a deranged stalker and how these really linked up when they felt like smaller, unrelated threads that weren’t satisfactorily tied together. The latter half of the book settled into a police procedural as the newly minted team of Evie and Rowan go on a serial killer’s trail and felt more predictable in the way it throws shadow on everything, though I did spend a goodly bit of time wondering where this was all leading.
Speaking of couple-chemistry, Evie and Rowan do clash in their objectives and that’s typically what I dig when it comes to the romantic portion of it all: the sparks, the secrets that the latter guards and what the former wants to crack open, all of which seemingly putting each other on opposite sides despite their attraction. The quick way they fell into lust which then strayed into a holding pattern that mostly had Rowan blowing hot and cold proved a lull unfortunately, along with the roundabout police procedural that made me skim a bit.
That said, I liked Evie a lot—her determination, her compassion and forwardness—and this was a huge plus point in the general unevenness of the storytelling, which, don’t get me wrong, is something that still piques my interest. Kelly’s writing can be absorbing, and even if there were parts I was more engrossed in than others, I’m this far into the series not to want the last book in it.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
The book functions well as a standalone, but there’s a heavy reliance on a tragic narrative arc and a convoluted, mysterious back story involving child actors, fame and what might be cover-ups. Kelly recounts it just fine, so catching up wouldn’t be an issue at all if that’s a concern. Disparate pieces of the mystery did throw me off though, when I found myself struggling to make the connections between Rowan’s family history, Evie’s current writing project (and the dangers that brings on its own), a deranged stalker and how these really linked up when they felt like smaller, unrelated threads that weren’t satisfactorily tied together. The latter half of the book settled into a police procedural as the newly minted team of Evie and Rowan go on a serial killer’s trail and felt more predictable in the way it throws shadow on everything, though I did spend a goodly bit of time wondering where this was all leading.
Speaking of couple-chemistry, Evie and Rowan do clash in their objectives and that’s typically what I dig when it comes to the romantic portion of it all: the sparks, the secrets that the latter guards and what the former wants to crack open, all of which seemingly putting each other on opposite sides despite their attraction. The quick way they fell into lust which then strayed into a holding pattern that mostly had Rowan blowing hot and cold proved a lull unfortunately, along with the roundabout police procedural that made me skim a bit.
That said, I liked Evie a lot—her determination, her compassion and forwardness—and this was a huge plus point in the general unevenness of the storytelling, which, don’t get me wrong, is something that still piques my interest. Kelly’s writing can be absorbing, and even if there were parts I was more engrossed in than others, I’m this far into the series not to want the last book in it.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
June 22, 2018
What a great book. I enjoyed reading Wanting You. Rowan Winchester is a cop from a family of Hollywood movie stars that has been touched by crime on a personal level. Evie is a true crime author who has a unique way of seeing the picture and has been instrumental in solving murder cases due to her attention to detail. Their paths cross when Evie gets mugged only to be rescued by Rowan. The chemistry between them is immediate and very believable. Leslie Kelly does an excellent job of letting the “steam” build between Evie and Rowan as the story unfolds. Evie’s in-depth analysis of a past crime puts her in the cross-hairs of a killer on top of a threat from the serial killer she helped put away for the murder of her roommate. The suspense builds just as the romance does. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone. Rowan’s brothers each have their own story and I like the way the author weaves trauma from the brother’s past into this story to add another element of suspense and potential conflict between Rowan and Evie. Highly recommend this as a great romantic suspense.
June 20, 2018
This is the second book in the Hollywood Heat series about the Winchester brothers. This is Rowan and Evie’s story. Rowan is a detective and Evie is a true crime author. The story has a mystery and a romance. I loved that Evie was a strong female character. The story also continues a mystery that involves an event from the past of the Winchester Brothers. I look forward to seeing the resolution of that mystery in book 3. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy of this book.
July 3, 2018
There's nothing I like better than a meaty romantic suspense with a great romance and a satisfying mystery. Wanting You the second book in the Hollywood Heat series by Leslie A Kelley delivers an enjoyable read on both counts.
Evie is a writer of narrative non-fiction, crimes, with a knack for finding serial killers. Not your typical heroine profession, for sure. Rowan Winchester is a former child actor turned police detective who rescues Evie from an attack.
I didn't read book one yet & Ms Kelley does a good job of catching you up on the over arching 20 yr old mystery of their sister's murder. Rowan is suspicious of Evie's motives at first but ends up helping her track down her serial killer, once she wins his trust. The romance is solid. The action terrific. There could be more heat, for my tastes but Wanting You should appeal to fans of action packed romance.
I'll definitely read more by this author.
Evie is a writer of narrative non-fiction, crimes, with a knack for finding serial killers. Not your typical heroine profession, for sure. Rowan Winchester is a former child actor turned police detective who rescues Evie from an attack.
I didn't read book one yet & Ms Kelley does a good job of catching you up on the over arching 20 yr old mystery of their sister's murder. Rowan is suspicious of Evie's motives at first but ends up helping her track down her serial killer, once she wins his trust. The romance is solid. The action terrific. There could be more heat, for my tastes but Wanting You should appeal to fans of action packed romance.
I'll definitely read more by this author.
July 1, 2018
Evie is an author who writes true crime books. She was involved in a case as her roommate was killed by a serial killer. She helped put the pieces together and convict him. Now she is looking at another case she is writing about which involves looking at old crime scenes. While she was leaving one scene, she was mugged but saved by Detective Winchester. Rowan Winchester is now a detective in LA, but before that he was part of Hollywood as a childhood actor along with his brothers. Rowan has secrets that he doesn't want to see in a book by Evie. Meanwhile, Evie is in danger from a serial killer but who is it and why? This book is incredibly good. Not just a romance but a thriller and murder mystery. Everything comes together completely. I want to read much more from this author. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review and no other compensation.
July 31, 2018
We met Rowan in the first book and in this story, we get to know him better. Even though he and his brother are twins, they are nothing alike except they are both all about their family. Rowan saves a woman from a mugger and helps her out afterwards. When she finds out who he is, she starts talking about the one subject that is off limits. It is too bad, because he was very attracted to her. When he is assigned to help her with her research, they find that someone, besides Rowan and his family, doesn't want her digging into some old cases. She is looking into a lot of old cases, so she isn't sure which one it is. As the danger closes in, they become closer and Rowan isn't about to lose her to some serial killer.
July 23, 2018
I always enjoy Leslie A Kelly's books because she puts a lot of suspense in them. This one was no different. The only problem I had was that I didn't realize when I started reading it that it's book number 2 in a trilogy so I got spoiled on some things from the first book, but that's my own fault. The characters are well developed and the story line moves along at a good pace. Enjoy this book and now I need to go back and read the first one. Looking forward to the final book, as well!!!
July 24, 2018
4.5☆
This is my first book by Leslie A. Kelly.
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Hollywood Heat
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from NetGalley.
This is my first book by Leslie A. Kelly.
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Hollywood Heat
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from NetGalley.
July 31, 2018
Evie Fleming went to the Cecil hotel which had many infamous murders had occurred here. Evie went as she made a good living writing in depth explorations about notorious crimes. As far as Evie is concerned there was no better place to begin her research than L A’s most brutal killers. Nut right now she started to wonder as a man followed her to the parking garage where her rental car is parked. She didn’t mean to be so late in getting the car. A creepy-crawly sensation went up her spine. The gut feeling telling her she was being followed, then the man attacked her. He had Evie around her middle then Evie remembered some self defense and the man dropped her , she was prepared for him when he came at her but he wasn't’ there. Something had come at him. A dark shape, powerful and broad and sent the man flying.The broad and powerman shape was a man-Rowan- who said ”Police, don’t move” . The man looked more familiar to Evie yet she was sure they hadn’t met in person. But she had seen him somewhere. Evie was here to work on her contracted but maybe she had come across another case- she questioned, she saw connections and she planned on doing some snooping into this other matter. Twelve women, their murders spread out over the last fifteen years and unsolved. Different jurisdictions played hell with investigators and the crimes didn’t leap out connected. Maybe the murders weren’t connected but…. Maybe they were. Evie wondered what it would be like to have a normal job that didn’t have her seeing psychopaths, sociopaths, and sheer monsters around every corner. One bad thing about Evie’s line of work- she was an expert on brutal murder. Police Departments and the FBI gave her access to evidence deemed to violence and gruesome for public consumption. Intentionally or not the research into the seediest, most brutally underbelly of L A had been tonight… with her being dragged toward an alley by a strong attacker. The new book she proposed to her publisher was going to be more brutal than anything she had already done. She needed to be in complete control for what she was about to tackle. But it wasn’t going to be easy after tonight. Rowan had been waiting for Evie to break down. She had held herself together for a remarkably long time. Reality down her defensive walls leaving her exposed to the fear, rage, and helplessness her attack had almost certainly inspired. Then Rowan told evie he would take her for coffee and she could get her car tomorrow. Once outside the garage she asked Rowna if that was a panic attack and Rowan said he thought so. Rowan was attracted to Evie and wanted to see her again under different circumstances. The reporter came up on Evie and tried to question her and Rowan and if she thought she had been targeted because of Jor Henry Angstrom who was a serial killer and Evie had testified against him. His last roommate had been Evie’s roommate and Evie blamed herself. Once Roman realizes what Evie does for a living he feels he should stay away from her but he doesn’t realize she has the answers his brothers have been looking for. Rowan had been a child actor until his sister had been murdered then he left acting and became a cop. Someone had been waiting for Evie to come home but she spent the night in Rowan’s brother’s rental apartment. Rowan is then assigned to help Evie with her research. I loved this book which was both a thriller and a romance. I would advise you to read the other books in this series in order for a smoother read and you won’t miss things. I found myself not wanting to put this down and see what was going to happen next. I loved the suspense in this book. I loved Evie’s determination as well as her compassion. I loved how Evie and Rowan interacted and loved the together. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend,.
June 30, 2018
Great book! Can’t wait for the next one!! This one definitely kept you on your toes. You never knew why was going to happen.
August 2, 2018
Wanting You by Leslie A. Kelly
Hollywood Heat #2
Excellent romantic suspense second novel in a wonderful series that I have truly enjoyed so far – cannot wait to see what will happen in book three when the third and final brother will get to find his HEA, too.
The dynamics between Evie and Rowan were scintillating, sensual and so much fun to watch. Evie was strong and smart and admirable in ways that made me root for her throughout the book. Rowan was an alpha cop but also a man I could relate to and see with Evie. The true crime novel she was working on and the premise for other sleuthing stirred up a hornets’ nest that was filled with danger. I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this book and also have to add that by not reading the end of the book first, as I usually do, I was totally surprised by who the ultimate bad guy turned out being.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Will I read more by this author? Without a doubt
What do I hope is in the next book?
* The resolution of who killed Baker
* The HEA ending for Raine (the third brother)
* The slamming of the door on Angstrom (serial killer met in this book)
* An epilogue that has all the brothers and their partners gathered together and settled happily.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Yours – Grand Central Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Hollywood Heat #2
Excellent romantic suspense second novel in a wonderful series that I have truly enjoyed so far – cannot wait to see what will happen in book three when the third and final brother will get to find his HEA, too.
The dynamics between Evie and Rowan were scintillating, sensual and so much fun to watch. Evie was strong and smart and admirable in ways that made me root for her throughout the book. Rowan was an alpha cop but also a man I could relate to and see with Evie. The true crime novel she was working on and the premise for other sleuthing stirred up a hornets’ nest that was filled with danger. I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this book and also have to add that by not reading the end of the book first, as I usually do, I was totally surprised by who the ultimate bad guy turned out being.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Will I read more by this author? Without a doubt
What do I hope is in the next book?
* The resolution of who killed Baker
* The HEA ending for Raine (the third brother)
* The slamming of the door on Angstrom (serial killer met in this book)
* An epilogue that has all the brothers and their partners gathered together and settled happily.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Yours – Grand Central Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
August 24, 2018
Wanting You (Hollywood Heat #2)
Leslie Kelly
7/31
Evie Fleming -- True crime writer, researcher, and apparently a crime magnet.
Rowan Winchester -- Reece’s twin brother, member of the Winchester Hollywood dynasty, detective with the LAPD.
Evie has relocated to LA to do research on cold-case crimes. She is attacked in front of a police station and Rowan comes to her rescue.
This book has stalkers, serial killers and rattlesnakes. When the serial killer was identified I admit I was shocked. I did not see that coming.
The Hollywood Heat series continues with the witty dialogue and intriguing mystery. More clues were dropped regarding the Great Winchester Mystery. Raine (brother #3) is chasing a stripper looking for clues.
I thought this book missed having the supporting characters that made book 1 (for me) more intriguing. There was no wisecracking nurse or roommates and Edward, Rowan’s father, did not appear until the Epilogue. Evie did have BFFs but… just read the book is all I am going to say.
3 ½ Stars -- rounded up to 4
Leslie Kelly
7/31
Evie Fleming -- True crime writer, researcher, and apparently a crime magnet.
Rowan Winchester -- Reece’s twin brother, member of the Winchester Hollywood dynasty, detective with the LAPD.
Evie has relocated to LA to do research on cold-case crimes. She is attacked in front of a police station and Rowan comes to her rescue.
This book has stalkers, serial killers and rattlesnakes. When the serial killer was identified I admit I was shocked. I did not see that coming.
The Hollywood Heat series continues with the witty dialogue and intriguing mystery. More clues were dropped regarding the Great Winchester Mystery. Raine (brother #3) is chasing a stripper looking for clues.
I thought this book missed having the supporting characters that made book 1 (for me) more intriguing. There was no wisecracking nurse or roommates and Edward, Rowan’s father, did not appear until the Epilogue. Evie did have BFFs but… just read the book is all I am going to say.
3 ½ Stars -- rounded up to 4
August 1, 2018
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
While this is book 2 in a series, it can be read as a stand alone book. This was non-stop action and romance as Evie and Rowan try to stay alive when someone is out to kill Evie.
There were things that they each had to work through and trust each other. While there is a HEA for Evie and Rowan the mystery of who killed Harry Baker but Rachel and Steve - were they killed or accidental death or suicide???
The only thing that I really wanted to see happen was some punishment for the man that gave the murderer Evie's home address!
I enjoyed the way Evie researched and was able to work through the clues and figure out that there was another serial killer and try to survive when he decides to make her one of his victims. Kind of glad that we didn't get any of the gory details of what happened to the victims - not really something I want to read about!
Really looking forward to book 3, I want to know what Raine finds out and of course who he will fall for!
While this is book 2 in a series, it can be read as a stand alone book. This was non-stop action and romance as Evie and Rowan try to stay alive when someone is out to kill Evie.
There were things that they each had to work through and trust each other. While there is a HEA for Evie and Rowan the mystery of who killed Harry Baker but Rachel and Steve - were they killed or accidental death or suicide???
The only thing that I really wanted to see happen was some punishment for the man that gave the murderer Evie's home address!
I enjoyed the way Evie researched and was able to work through the clues and figure out that there was another serial killer and try to survive when he decides to make her one of his victims. Kind of glad that we didn't get any of the gory details of what happened to the victims - not really something I want to read about!
Really looking forward to book 3, I want to know what Raine finds out and of course who he will fall for!
July 8, 2018
When writer Evie Fleming is attacked by someone sent to murder her, she is "rescued" by the good looking Detective Winchester. Evie gets thrown right into the middle of her research for her current project...a book of unsolved murders in L.A. Even though Evie should be focusing completely on her research, she can't help but feel sparks for Detective Rowan Winchester, who volunteered to be her escort on her research project, to help keep her safe...but he is also trying to keep his family history (one of the unsolved mysteries she is writing/researching) secret from her.
This was a wonderful mystery with connection, humor, love, lust, twists and murder! The characters were well-developed and I liked the way the author, Leslie A. Kelly, did the first person for not only the two main characters, but also for the mystery character as well. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Kelly, and I loved this book and will be reading more of her writings now!
This was a wonderful mystery with connection, humor, love, lust, twists and murder! The characters were well-developed and I liked the way the author, Leslie A. Kelly, did the first person for not only the two main characters, but also for the mystery character as well. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Kelly, and I loved this book and will be reading more of her writings now!
June 20, 2018
Wanting You is the second romantic suspense book in the Hollywood Heat series written by author Leslie A. Kelly. This is an excellent series. I'm looking forward to reading the next story. Thanks to NetGalley and Forever ( Grand Central Publishing) for the advance copy.
October 2, 2018
It was such a phenomenal read and had amazing characters as well as an amazing story line. It is one book that captivates your interest and doesn't let go of it till the very end.
February 1, 2021
I devoured Nowhere to Hide, I loved it so so much. This is exactly what the kind of romantic suspense I adore, and it reminded me how much I really enjoy the genre.
The whole time I was reading it reminded me of two shows and one nonfiction book that I loved:
The Following. The whole serial killer aspect and how the story played out reminded me a lot of this show.
Bosch. Did the book just remind me of Bosch because it’s set in the same areas of LA? Maybe. But all the scenes in the police station and the other officers gave me serious Bosch vibes (side note: this is probably one of my favorite shows ever and I highly recommend it!)
I’ll be Gone in the Dark. One of my favorite true crime books ever. Evie’s character and the plot reminded me a lot of this book.
A romance between a true-crime writer and a hot police officer is maybe my favorite romantic suspense coupling ever? I really loved Evie’s character (my strong female protagonist sweatshirt is very appropriate for her!) and Rowan was so kind and swoony. Especially after their not at all cute meeting in the beginning. This book sucks you in and gets your heart racing from page one and I loved it.
The chemistry between Evie and Rowan is excellent throughout the whole book. So much sexual tension, and they have great interactions while working on the case together. There is on page steam, but by the time it happened in the book all I could think about is who the killer might be. Let the record show, I had a lot of suspects but was surprised by who it was.
I did read this series a bit out of order (started but never finished the first book) and it worked fine as a stand alone. I’m very invested in the underlying Winchester story that goes through all the books, I’m definitely planning to go back and finish the first book. I’m dying to read the next book though! I’m so curious how Raine’s book will play out.
Nowhere to Hide was a total win for me, I highly recommend reading it!
The whole time I was reading it reminded me of two shows and one nonfiction book that I loved:
The Following. The whole serial killer aspect and how the story played out reminded me a lot of this show.
Bosch. Did the book just remind me of Bosch because it’s set in the same areas of LA? Maybe. But all the scenes in the police station and the other officers gave me serious Bosch vibes (side note: this is probably one of my favorite shows ever and I highly recommend it!)
I’ll be Gone in the Dark. One of my favorite true crime books ever. Evie’s character and the plot reminded me a lot of this book.
A romance between a true-crime writer and a hot police officer is maybe my favorite romantic suspense coupling ever? I really loved Evie’s character (my strong female protagonist sweatshirt is very appropriate for her!) and Rowan was so kind and swoony. Especially after their not at all cute meeting in the beginning. This book sucks you in and gets your heart racing from page one and I loved it.
The chemistry between Evie and Rowan is excellent throughout the whole book. So much sexual tension, and they have great interactions while working on the case together. There is on page steam, but by the time it happened in the book all I could think about is who the killer might be. Let the record show, I had a lot of suspects but was surprised by who it was.
I did read this series a bit out of order (started but never finished the first book) and it worked fine as a stand alone. I’m very invested in the underlying Winchester story that goes through all the books, I’m definitely planning to go back and finish the first book. I’m dying to read the next book though! I’m so curious how Raine’s book will play out.
Nowhere to Hide was a total win for me, I highly recommend reading it!
July 16, 2023
Aside from the royally stupid move the female main character made at the end of the book, I really, really liked this one and was ready to give it a 4-star rating. Too bad we like to employ actions that make no sense and are completely out-of-character in order to create damsel-in-distress situations like this. Le sigh... Thus is how a lot of romantic suspense plots sufferings.
August 1, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Evie is prying into things, both in the present ans the past, that could easily get her killed. As a true crime writer, Evie is used to dealing with professionals who don’t exactly want her around… but Rowen has a hidden reason for not wanting Evie to be working this cold case, one that’s a bit more personal to his family. Soon it becomes obvious that Evie and Rowen are not only exposing the past, but also revealing a current day serial killer at large in the city. One that seems to have set their sights on Evie.
Wanting You is the second story in the Hollywood Heat series, and it works well on it’s own. You don’t “have” to have read the first, but I will always believe that any series is best experienced in order. The action is fast paced in this mystery, and the danger doesn’t always come from where you expect. I enjoyed pulling apart this mystery and seeing if I could come up with an answer that matched the story’s ending. I liked Rowen and Evie together. Sure, at first Rowen didn’t want to be assigned to help her or even have her in town… but things change when the emotions get involved.
If you enjoy mystery, a puzzle to solve and watching two unlikely people fall in love along the way… then you’ll love Wanting You. I’d definitely recommend this one to any Romantic Suspense or Mystery reader who likes their puzzles with a dash of Romance.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Evie is prying into things, both in the present ans the past, that could easily get her killed. As a true crime writer, Evie is used to dealing with professionals who don’t exactly want her around… but Rowen has a hidden reason for not wanting Evie to be working this cold case, one that’s a bit more personal to his family. Soon it becomes obvious that Evie and Rowen are not only exposing the past, but also revealing a current day serial killer at large in the city. One that seems to have set their sights on Evie.
Wanting You is the second story in the Hollywood Heat series, and it works well on it’s own. You don’t “have” to have read the first, but I will always believe that any series is best experienced in order. The action is fast paced in this mystery, and the danger doesn’t always come from where you expect. I enjoyed pulling apart this mystery and seeing if I could come up with an answer that matched the story’s ending. I liked Rowen and Evie together. Sure, at first Rowen didn’t want to be assigned to help her or even have her in town… but things change when the emotions get involved.
If you enjoy mystery, a puzzle to solve and watching two unlikely people fall in love along the way… then you’ll love Wanting You. I’d definitely recommend this one to any Romantic Suspense or Mystery reader who likes their puzzles with a dash of Romance.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
July 30, 2018
Wanting You is an amazing story that has everything a great novel should have. Leslie A. Kelly has written a truly delightful novel with suspense, some action, and lots of romance. Absolute perfection. I literally couldn’t put the book down. Sharp, witty and so very well-written.
I thought I loved the first book in the Hollywood Heat Series, but I loved Rowan’s and Evie’s story in Wanting You even more. The romance between these two was combustible, happening quickly. Still it didn’t feel rushed. The main mystery or suspense provided plenty of nail biting moments without being too graphic. I had plenty of ideas of who the killer could be, but I never guessed. What a surprise when he was revealed. Simply excellent!
Some progress was even made on the overarching theme, which I’m guessing will be Raine’s, the third brother, story. I can hardly wait.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought I loved the first book in the Hollywood Heat Series, but I loved Rowan’s and Evie’s story in Wanting You even more. The romance between these two was combustible, happening quickly. Still it didn’t feel rushed. The main mystery or suspense provided plenty of nail biting moments without being too graphic. I had plenty of ideas of who the killer could be, but I never guessed. What a surprise when he was revealed. Simply excellent!
Some progress was even made on the overarching theme, which I’m guessing will be Raine’s, the third brother, story. I can hardly wait.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 20, 2018
A delightful read! I loved the chemistry between Rowan and Evie.
She's a Writer and he's a Detective and they both have an understanding of the trauma that comes with crime. The story has a good pace and you have a bold female character in Evie who is not afraid to ask questions, challenge the answers she receives and it builds up the trust between her and Rowan. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! Thank you NetGalley for the eARC and Leslie Kelly for writing such a great romance!
She's a Writer and he's a Detective and they both have an understanding of the trauma that comes with crime. The story has a good pace and you have a bold female character in Evie who is not afraid to ask questions, challenge the answers she receives and it builds up the trust between her and Rowan. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! Thank you NetGalley for the eARC and Leslie Kelly for writing such a great romance!
August 5, 2018
Wanting You by Leslie A. Kelly is book Two in the Hollywood Heat Series. This is the story of Rowan Winchester and Evie Fleming. I have read the previous book, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Evie is looking into the deaths that have been happening in Los Angeles which leads her to meet Rowan a detective on the force. Rowan is working to keep Evie safe while she is researching the death of several people. Rowan also is trying to keep his family secrets undercover too. But the more they work together the more their feelings are growing.
Besides being a growing love story we have a great mystery too.
Enjoyed this book!
Evie is looking into the deaths that have been happening in Los Angeles which leads her to meet Rowan a detective on the force. Rowan is working to keep Evie safe while she is researching the death of several people. Rowan also is trying to keep his family secrets undercover too. But the more they work together the more their feelings are growing.
Besides being a growing love story we have a great mystery too.
Enjoyed this book!
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