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Tall, Dark, and Dangerous #2
Heiß genug
Er ist ein Kämpfer, der nie verliert, aber ist er stark genug, ihr Herz zu gewinnen?
In dem Moment, als Katie ihn zum ersten Mal traf, nahm Kiefer Rogan ihr buchstäblich den Atem. Früherer MMA Champion, jetzt Schauspieler, notorischer Playboy und äußerst charmant – er verkörpert alles, war sie geschworen hatte, zu vermeiden. Vielleicht hätte sie sich noch mehr anstrengen sollen, ihm zu widerstehen. Vielleicht hätte sie sich nicht in ihn verlieben sollen. Denn gerade Katie weiß, dass jeder Geheimnisse hat. Narben. Und dass sie normalerweise hässlich und schmerzhaft und zerstörerisch für die sind, die man am meisten liebt. Nur hätte Katie nie gedacht, dass sie auch tödlich sein könnten ...
In dem Moment, als Katie ihn zum ersten Mal traf, nahm Kiefer Rogan ihr buchstäblich den Atem. Früherer MMA Champion, jetzt Schauspieler, notorischer Playboy und äußerst charmant – er verkörpert alles, war sie geschworen hatte, zu vermeiden. Vielleicht hätte sie sich noch mehr anstrengen sollen, ihm zu widerstehen. Vielleicht hätte sie sich nicht in ihn verlieben sollen. Denn gerade Katie weiß, dass jeder Geheimnisse hat. Narben. Und dass sie normalerweise hässlich und schmerzhaft und zerstörerisch für die sind, die man am meisten liebt. Nur hätte Katie nie gedacht, dass sie auch tödlich sein könnten ...
401 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2015
57 people are currently reading
2244 people want to read
About the author
M. Leighton
67 books9,431 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, M. Leighton, is a native of Ohio. She relocated to the warmer climates of the South, where she can be near the water all summer and miss the snow all winter. Possessed of an overactive imagination from early in her childhood, Michelle finally found an acceptable outlet for her fantastical visions: literary fiction. Having written over a dozen novels, these days Michelle enjoys letting her mind wander to more romantic settings with sexy Southern guys, much like the one she married and the ones you'll find in her latest books. When her thoughts aren't roaming in that direction, she'll be riding wild horses, skiing the slopes of Aspen or scuba diving with a hot rock star, all without leaving the cozy comfort of her office.
About Michelle: I love coffee and chocolate, even more so when they are combined. I'm convinced that one day they could be the basis for world peace. I also love the color red and am seriously considering dying my hair.
About Michelle: I love coffee and chocolate, even more so when they are combined. I'm convinced that one day they could be the basis for world peace. I also love the color red and am seriously considering dying my hair.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
December 5, 2015
3.5-4 Stars
Well, this was certainly...different. If you're expecting Tough Enough to be on the same intensity level as Strong Enough, don't. This was a complete change of pace from the first book. It's an emotional journey that's both beautiful and touching. The suspense element is not the predominant factor here as it was in the predecessor. As a matter of fact, it was barely present up until the very end. Which actually brings me to my minor dilemma. I've been waffling with my rating on this book for days now. Do I rate it on it's own, or do I rate it based on the series it's in? But I'll get to that in a bit.
In true M. Leighton fashion, Tough Enough grabs the reader's attention with just the prologue.
Katie Rydale is a woman with secrets; deep, painful secrets that she's still learning to live with. It's been years since the even that changed her life irrevocably, and yet she's still just a shell of the woman she used to be. A meek kitten that hides behind the shadow of who she used to be. She's more comfortable behind the lime light as a makeup artist to the stars that bask in it.
Kiefer Rogan is the uber sexy MMA star turned actor and one fourth of the Delta 5 team that we were introduced to in the first book. Katie knows that men like him will only burn her. He's just too everything; too sexy, too intense, too determined to get to know her.
If you're looking for a swoony alpha hero, you'll certainly get that with Keifer. His slow and determined seduction of Katie was one of my favorite parts about this book. I love a slow burn romance, especially one that's layered in ripe sexual tension. As protective as Rogan is, he understands Katie's limits and doesn't push them. For all his intensity, it's so refreshing to see a hero that's respectful of a woman's boundaries. He was just so incredibly sweet but without ever losing that edge that he has to him.
Katie is not exactly the kind of heroine I prefer to read about. She's very demure and tends to withdraw into herself at the slightest altercation. I would have loved to see her come into her own a little sooner than she did.
If you've read the first book, which I highly recommend you do, then you know there was a particular suspense element that was left in a cliffhanger. Clearly there was a story arc that would continue throughout the series. I was expecting for this book to bring some of that intensity with it as well, but it never quite went there. The main focus was the relationship between Rogan and Katie while the suspense was more of an afterthought. I don't have a problem with this, and up until the final 10% of the book, this was a solid 4.5 star read for me. This could easily be a case of built up expectations, but I found the ending to be rushed and well...anticlimactic. After all the buildup in book 1 for everything to be resolved the way it was, it just wasn't as satisfying as I had hoped. I would have loved for that part to be really fleshed out and not just glossed over as it had been. But then again, I don't know what the third book will bring, so it is tough to judge without having finished the series.
For all the minor issues I may have had, this book had my full attention from beginning to finish. So while I wished it had a bit more of an edge to it like the first one in the series, I still definitely enjoyed it.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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Why me?"
He doesn't hesitate with his answer. "Something tells me you're worth the effort."
Well, this was certainly...different. If you're expecting Tough Enough to be on the same intensity level as Strong Enough, don't. This was a complete change of pace from the first book. It's an emotional journey that's both beautiful and touching. The suspense element is not the predominant factor here as it was in the predecessor. As a matter of fact, it was barely present up until the very end. Which actually brings me to my minor dilemma. I've been waffling with my rating on this book for days now. Do I rate it on it's own, or do I rate it based on the series it's in? But I'll get to that in a bit.
In true M. Leighton fashion, Tough Enough grabs the reader's attention with just the prologue.
Katie Rydale is a woman with secrets; deep, painful secrets that she's still learning to live with. It's been years since the even that changed her life irrevocably, and yet she's still just a shell of the woman she used to be. A meek kitten that hides behind the shadow of who she used to be. She's more comfortable behind the lime light as a makeup artist to the stars that bask in it.
Kiefer Rogan is the uber sexy MMA star turned actor and one fourth of the Delta 5 team that we were introduced to in the first book. Katie knows that men like him will only burn her. He's just too everything; too sexy, too intense, too determined to get to know her.
If you're looking for a swoony alpha hero, you'll certainly get that with Keifer. His slow and determined seduction of Katie was one of my favorite parts about this book. I love a slow burn romance, especially one that's layered in ripe sexual tension. As protective as Rogan is, he understands Katie's limits and doesn't push them. For all his intensity, it's so refreshing to see a hero that's respectful of a woman's boundaries. He was just so incredibly sweet but without ever losing that edge that he has to him.
Katie is not exactly the kind of heroine I prefer to read about. She's very demure and tends to withdraw into herself at the slightest altercation. I would have loved to see her come into her own a little sooner than she did.
If you've read the first book, which I highly recommend you do, then you know there was a particular suspense element that was left in a cliffhanger. Clearly there was a story arc that would continue throughout the series. I was expecting for this book to bring some of that intensity with it as well, but it never quite went there. The main focus was the relationship between Rogan and Katie while the suspense was more of an afterthought. I don't have a problem with this, and up until the final 10% of the book, this was a solid 4.5 star read for me. This could easily be a case of built up expectations, but I found the ending to be rushed and well...anticlimactic. After all the buildup in book 1 for everything to be resolved the way it was, it just wasn't as satisfying as I had hoped. I would have loved for that part to be really fleshed out and not just glossed over as it had been. But then again, I don't know what the third book will bring, so it is tough to judge without having finished the series.
For all the minor issues I may have had, this book had my full attention from beginning to finish. So while I wished it had a bit more of an edge to it like the first one in the series, I still definitely enjoyed it.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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November 2, 2015
Title: Tough Enough
Series: Tall, Dark, and Dangerous, #2
Author: M. Leighton
Release date: November 3, 2015
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
This book came as quite a surprise, in the sense that it was pretty much the opposite of everything I was anticipating that it would be. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but if you're thinking that this book will run along the same lines as Strong Enough, you'll be mistaken. I thought that this would be another suspense driven book with a hard as nails alpha hero. That it would continue on with the mystery of who's behind the attempted assassinations of these men's loved ones. In reality, while I really did enjoy the hero for his single-minded pursuit and patience with the heroine, to me, he felt much more like a beta hero.
Kiefer Rogan is a MMA champion fighter who is part of a former black ops group. As we learned in book one, someone assassinated the fourth in this group of men and no one is safe until they find who is behind it. We were left in a happy for now place, but the danger was still present and unresolved. Kiefer has just agreed to take part in a television show-it's filming in a small town and it's the perfect place to lay low while the perpetrators are hunted down. He never accounted for the woman who he couldn't stop thinking about from the very first meeting.
Katie Rydale is a heroine with heaps of baggage and has lost the ability to put her trust in people. Most especially men. The woman she is now is a far cry from who she used to be. She's experienced tragic loss, and a nightmare of horrific proportions that sent her into hiding. From herself, from connecting with people, and allowing them to see below her surface. She blends into the shadows, and she likes it that way.
"If I've learned anything over the years, it's how to hide. Emotions, insecurity, myself-hiding is the one defense mechanism that I've mastered.
Kiefer was the epitome of strength and perseverance. His attitude and outlook in life was that of a conqueror. he's focused, determined, and single minded. His immediate attraction and curiosity about Katie leads him to grow desperate to gain her trust. When she turns him down repeatedly, it only causes him to dig his heels in deeper and seek a new direction in winning her. I loved that about him, he was a great hero in that respect. He wanted to see her, to understand the woman who no one else could see.
Rogan is hiding scars of his own. And that part of him is able to reach her-and bring an understanding between the two of them. As we see them open up about their pasts, Rogan's example of refusing to be held back by what haunts him is the breaking point. She needs that person who will inspire her to push past her fears and start living in the now.
I'll have to be brave. Tough. Tough enough to live, not just survive. For the first time in what seems like a lifetime, I feel like I might be ready for that. Finally ready. Finally strong. Finally tough enough.
So why three stars? I never really connected with the heroine like I should have. My preferences are usually for a tough, strong, and independent woman. And don't get me wrong, she found her inner strength eventually, but I would have liked to have seen it kick in earlier than it did. She had a pretty pitiful attitude and her defeatism ran on longer than I would have liked. As well, I was hoping for a better balance of suspense and romance-the story arc that continued from book one wasn't re-introduced until the very end of the book. Which left me a little confused, to be frank. It's resolution was a small blip on the overall plot in this book-for me it could have used some more fleshing out.
Overall, this was a good, fast paced read. I didn't have any moments where it lagged and left me feeling impatient. Although it's part of a series, you could probably manage to read this one with no confusion issues.
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January 30, 2021
Surpringly I like Tough Enough compare to Strong Enough. What really click with me is Cathy the heroine. She is tough as nail. She is truly a survivor.
Both Cathy and Rogan has emotional baggage from the past. Rogan father is abusive. Cathy had to deal with horrific incident and devastated lost. Both characters found peace and love in one another.
Miss Leighton brings enough drama to make the story interesting.
Overall a good book to start my rainy weekend.
4 stars
Both Cathy and Rogan has emotional baggage from the past. Rogan father is abusive. Cathy had to deal with horrific incident and devastated lost. Both characters found peace and love in one another.
Miss Leighton brings enough drama to make the story interesting.
Overall a good book to start my rainy weekend.
4 stars
February 23, 2016
4 Beauty is Skin Deep Stars
Tough Enough is a standalone and is part of the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series. I enjoyed the first book, Strong Enough a lot. I was really excited for this one and I couldn’t wait to dive in!
Like all Leighton books the beginning hits you with a bam and I love it. I love the way she starts out each book in this series. It grabs you by the face and you are just glued to the pages. The beginning completely set the tone of the read and I was ready to read more about Katie’s story.
Katie is a damaged girl. She had a horrific past and she’s trying to move on. She works as a make-up artist for celebrities. She’s an ordinary girl, kind of shy and doesn’t like attention at all.
I liked Katie. I felt for her and understood her. I wanted to be Mona, her best friend and just make Katie feel better. You can tell Katie guards herself and its tough getting close to her.
Kiefer Rogan (love the name) is a fighter turned actor. I know it’s like the best of both worlds right?! He’s handsome, talented and is a charmer. Ladies thrown themselves at him and he doesn’t complain one bit. Katie is Rogan’s make-up artist.
Katie as Rogan’s make-up artist is a completely cute storyline. I love it when the Hero is an actor. I love that Katie is a typical girl, but somehow she has captured superstar Rogan’s attention. Rogan doesn’t understand why he’s interested in Katie because she’s not the normal girl he goes for, but there’s something about her that draws him towards her.
Because of Katie’s past, she keeps Rogan at arm’s length and I’m super loving the chase. No, do not make it easy for him!
As you read on, you get more of Rogan’s past and his issues too. You can kind of see that Katie and Rogan have a lot in common and I like that they both have past struggles.
Leighton is very descriptive in her writing and paints a perfect picture for you as you read. It’s a beautiful story about past pains and struggles and overcoming them.
An ARC was provided
Strong Enough REVIEW | AMAZON
Tough Enough AMAZON
Tough Enough is a standalone and is part of the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series. I enjoyed the first book, Strong Enough a lot. I was really excited for this one and I couldn’t wait to dive in!
Like all Leighton books the beginning hits you with a bam and I love it. I love the way she starts out each book in this series. It grabs you by the face and you are just glued to the pages. The beginning completely set the tone of the read and I was ready to read more about Katie’s story.
Katie is a damaged girl. She had a horrific past and she’s trying to move on. She works as a make-up artist for celebrities. She’s an ordinary girl, kind of shy and doesn’t like attention at all.
I liked Katie. I felt for her and understood her. I wanted to be Mona, her best friend and just make Katie feel better. You can tell Katie guards herself and its tough getting close to her.
Kiefer Rogan (love the name) is a fighter turned actor. I know it’s like the best of both worlds right?! He’s handsome, talented and is a charmer. Ladies thrown themselves at him and he doesn’t complain one bit. Katie is Rogan’s make-up artist.
Katie as Rogan’s make-up artist is a completely cute storyline. I love it when the Hero is an actor. I love that Katie is a typical girl, but somehow she has captured superstar Rogan’s attention. Rogan doesn’t understand why he’s interested in Katie because she’s not the normal girl he goes for, but there’s something about her that draws him towards her.
Because of Katie’s past, she keeps Rogan at arm’s length and I’m super loving the chase. No, do not make it easy for him!
“No man in his right mind would want me. And if Kiefer Rogan does, it’s only because he hasn’t seen the real me yet. The bad parts. The ugly parts.”
As you read on, you get more of Rogan’s past and his issues too. You can kind of see that Katie and Rogan have a lot in common and I like that they both have past struggles.
Leighton is very descriptive in her writing and paints a perfect picture for you as you read. It’s a beautiful story about past pains and struggles and overcoming them.
An ARC was provided
Strong Enough REVIEW | AMAZON
Tough Enough AMAZON
November 3, 2015
4.5 - "Impressed yet?" Stars!
Another absolutely outstanding read from Michelle Leighton, the Tall, Dark and Dangerous series is certainly exceeding my expectations on every front so far.
This book is a little different in pace to it's predecessor. Whereas the romance was carried out against a back-drop of action and suspense before, we have pretty much the reverse for most of Tough Enough in that the main bulk of the book is the building of a relationship between two extremely different people. One confident and full of charm, the other looking to live under the radar, and not looking to draw any attention to themselves.
"I want to know all your secrets. To strip you down. Lay you bare."
And that is where the charm and absolute beauty of this book lies. Rogan epitomizes the kind of guy I absolutely adore reading about. The cheeky smile, topping of a body to drool over and a willingness to do whatever it takes to make Katie happy, the little things he did for her to earn her trust, and give him a chance at more than friendship with her.
"I look forward to changing your mind about me."
This book doesn't rush into the bedroom as the author took the time to build the trust and emotions between them as their story developed. It gave them a real depth, and I loved the way Rogan dealt with each new revelation from Katie as her confidence in him and herself grew, his absolute determination to ensure that she felt safe and protected going forward, kept me reading eagerly too see what sweet thoughtful thing he would do for her next.
Somewhere deep down, there's still a girl in me who wants to love, who wants to trust, but she's afraid.
The suspense, and the tying up to the first book, doesn't really get going until the last 30% of this story, and it felt a little rushed to me, everything happened and then all of a sudden it was all resolved in the space of a couple of paragraphs. I don't have an issue with it per se, but it kind of felt off-kilter in respect to the balance bearing in mind that the first book was very much focused on the betrayal of the guys in the Delta Five team, and the resulting deaths that had and were occurring.
"Everyone has flaws."
I still loved this book hard though, and I loved this couple. Michelle gave her readers a guy to fall for and a girl to feel for, and it worked on every level in that respect. The drama was perfectly balanced in the story and I enjoyed it from beginning to end.
"You are the closest I've come to living in a long time..."
"Then let me bring you back to life."
ARC generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Another absolutely outstanding read from Michelle Leighton, the Tall, Dark and Dangerous series is certainly exceeding my expectations on every front so far.
This book is a little different in pace to it's predecessor. Whereas the romance was carried out against a back-drop of action and suspense before, we have pretty much the reverse for most of Tough Enough in that the main bulk of the book is the building of a relationship between two extremely different people. One confident and full of charm, the other looking to live under the radar, and not looking to draw any attention to themselves.
"I want to know all your secrets. To strip you down. Lay you bare."
And that is where the charm and absolute beauty of this book lies. Rogan epitomizes the kind of guy I absolutely adore reading about. The cheeky smile, topping of a body to drool over and a willingness to do whatever it takes to make Katie happy, the little things he did for her to earn her trust, and give him a chance at more than friendship with her.
"I look forward to changing your mind about me."
This book doesn't rush into the bedroom as the author took the time to build the trust and emotions between them as their story developed. It gave them a real depth, and I loved the way Rogan dealt with each new revelation from Katie as her confidence in him and herself grew, his absolute determination to ensure that she felt safe and protected going forward, kept me reading eagerly too see what sweet thoughtful thing he would do for her next.
Somewhere deep down, there's still a girl in me who wants to love, who wants to trust, but she's afraid.
The suspense, and the tying up to the first book, doesn't really get going until the last 30% of this story, and it felt a little rushed to me, everything happened and then all of a sudden it was all resolved in the space of a couple of paragraphs. I don't have an issue with it per se, but it kind of felt off-kilter in respect to the balance bearing in mind that the first book was very much focused on the betrayal of the guys in the Delta Five team, and the resulting deaths that had and were occurring.
"Everyone has flaws."
I still loved this book hard though, and I loved this couple. Michelle gave her readers a guy to fall for and a girl to feel for, and it worked on every level in that respect. The drama was perfectly balanced in the story and I enjoyed it from beginning to end.
"You are the closest I've come to living in a long time..."
"Then let me bring you back to life."
ARC generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
November 24, 2015
4 'I'll fight your demons' Stars
Kiefer Rogan is a MMA champion, now turned actor, who has set his sights on his mysterious make-up artist. Katie Rydale hides herself from the people around her and doesn't let them see her true character. When Rogan shows up, though, he see's behind her mask and gets a glimpse at the read Katie. But a glimpse just isn't enough for a man like Rogan and once he see's the hidden depths to her, he wants more.
Katie and Rogan have a lot to learn about each other and they also have the added danger from both of their pasts coming out to break them apart. Rogan and his Black Ops buddies are still after the person that murdered their friend and now they have to come together again to help Katie finally get rid of what haunts her. But Rogan isn't letting go of Katie after he finally gets her and he's willing to fight for her.
Katie and Rogan's story was so captivating and I found myself sucked in from the moment we saw them in the same room together. It was a lot different than the first in this series and the romance was more evident while the suspense parts were more in the background. I loved getting to see Rogan pursue Katie and how he didn't give up on her even when she was trying to push him away. The effort he made just for her to give him a chance is really what made me like him so much.
Rogan was a really strong character and he always had to take care of those around him. I liked seeing how he was so caring towards everyone and the lengths he would go to just to help them out. The relationship he had with his brother Kurt really interested me and I'm kind of mad that it wasn't really resolved by the end. I guess I just wanted to see them work their shit out and for Kurt to stop being such a douche.
Katie was interesting to read about and I kept wanting to know more about her circumstances and what led her to where she ended up. When I finally got to find out I admired her for being able to move on but at the same time I kind of wanted to shake her and make her realize that Rogan was there to help her and that she should accept it. Overall Katie was an okay character but honestly there was nothing too special about her that stood out.
Overall, this was a really interesting story and I liked that the romance wasn't pushed to the background like in the first one. I recommend reading this series in order since there is a general story surrounding the heroes that continues in each book.
Kiefer Rogan is a MMA champion, now turned actor, who has set his sights on his mysterious make-up artist. Katie Rydale hides herself from the people around her and doesn't let them see her true character. When Rogan shows up, though, he see's behind her mask and gets a glimpse at the read Katie. But a glimpse just isn't enough for a man like Rogan and once he see's the hidden depths to her, he wants more.
Katie and Rogan have a lot to learn about each other and they also have the added danger from both of their pasts coming out to break them apart. Rogan and his Black Ops buddies are still after the person that murdered their friend and now they have to come together again to help Katie finally get rid of what haunts her. But Rogan isn't letting go of Katie after he finally gets her and he's willing to fight for her.
Katie and Rogan's story was so captivating and I found myself sucked in from the moment we saw them in the same room together. It was a lot different than the first in this series and the romance was more evident while the suspense parts were more in the background. I loved getting to see Rogan pursue Katie and how he didn't give up on her even when she was trying to push him away. The effort he made just for her to give him a chance is really what made me like him so much.
Rogan was a really strong character and he always had to take care of those around him. I liked seeing how he was so caring towards everyone and the lengths he would go to just to help them out. The relationship he had with his brother Kurt really interested me and I'm kind of mad that it wasn't really resolved by the end. I guess I just wanted to see them work their shit out and for Kurt to stop being such a douche.
Katie was interesting to read about and I kept wanting to know more about her circumstances and what led her to where she ended up. When I finally got to find out I admired her for being able to move on but at the same time I kind of wanted to shake her and make her realize that Rogan was there to help her and that she should accept it. Overall Katie was an okay character but honestly there was nothing too special about her that stood out.
Overall, this was a really interesting story and I liked that the romance wasn't pushed to the background like in the first one. I recommend reading this series in order since there is a general story surrounding the heroes that continues in each book.
November 4, 2015
ARC provided by author and publisher in exchange for an honest review
Bold. Raw. Sexy. Captivating. Breathtakingly Beautiful. Emotionally Consuming. These are a few words that comes to mind after I practically inhaled reading my first M. Leighton book. The author blew me away on this emotionally driven and riveting tale of hope, second chances, love, and surviving. Tough Enough was a book that consumed you, stripped you naked and left you feeling raw, exposed and vulnerable as M. Leighton douses her readers with her gorgeous prose and raw characters.
"She captivates me that much, dominates my thoughts to that degree."
They say every scar tells a story. And for Katie Rydale, her scars tells of a story that will leave you heartbroken. When Katie ex-boyfriend, abused her emotionally and physically, he left these physical scars on her heart and body. These scars were a constant reminder to Katie of the emotional and physical absuse that he left her. It was a reminder that her sense of hope, ability to trust and love again was tainted. But that all changes, when Kiefer Rogan walked into her life.
"She just is beautiful. But on the inside, I can already tell that she's more."
Kiefer Rogan walked into Katie's life and was like a beacon that represented hope, love, strength, and understanding. As a former soldier and MMA fighter, Kiefer is the new "IT" actor of the moment. So when he first laid his eyes on Katie, the makeup artist on his new TV show, he was instantly drawn to her. Her innocence and vulnerability spoke to him. He knew that he had to know the real Katie. And slowly, Rogan was able to break down the barriers and walls that she placed. He showed her that she didn't need to fear him. He allowed her to feel comfortable in her own skin and constantly reminded her that he didn't see her as ugly or imperfect because of the scars on her body. But instead, he embraced and loved every inch of her body. In his eyes, her scars weren't seen as ugly but as something beautiful and precious. It was a reminder that this woman who stole his heart was a fighter. She survived all the heartache, brokenness, and lived to tell it. And in turn, Rogan found a kindred spirit with Katie because they both were survivors.
"I want him to show up somewhere else in my life. I want more of Rogan. As unhealthy and inadvisable as it is, I want more."
The chemistry and bond exhibited by Katie and Rogan was palpable right off the opening pages. I was emotionally drawn to their brokenness, past and scars. Rogan was the perfect book hero. He was patient, kind, and had this soft nature that warmed your hearts. He was the strong alpha male but he had a heart of gold. I loved that he was able to bring out Katie's strength and show her what real love entails. I loved that when Katie was going through her own personal storm, Rogan's silent presence was more powerful than a million empty words. His love was able to piece back the shattered pieces of her life and through that their love healed both of them.
Tough Enough is a book that inspires hope and the need to fight. Fight for love. Fight for survival. And most importantly, the fight to live. Through this riveting tale, Ms. Leighton allows readers to see that our scars do not make us ugly. It is a reminder of our strength, courage, and will to live. From every wound, there is a scar. And every scar tells a story. A story that says you are, tough enough to face the battles and obstacles that stand in your way. Though TOUGH ENOUGH may have been classified as a romance novel, this book was so much more. Passion, strength, love, hope, and new beginnings were beautifully entangled and woven into the story allowing readers to FEEL for the characters. So if you are looking for a book that was brimming with a fierce tangible and palpable love story then I highly recommend you to read Tough Enough. Be prepared to have your heart held hostage as M. Leighton delivers and spellbinds you in this phenomenal masterpiece.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...M. Leighton
Bold. Raw. Sexy. Captivating. Breathtakingly Beautiful. Emotionally Consuming. These are a few words that comes to mind after I practically inhaled reading my first M. Leighton book. The author blew me away on this emotionally driven and riveting tale of hope, second chances, love, and surviving. Tough Enough was a book that consumed you, stripped you naked and left you feeling raw, exposed and vulnerable as M. Leighton douses her readers with her gorgeous prose and raw characters.
"She captivates me that much, dominates my thoughts to that degree."
They say every scar tells a story. And for Katie Rydale, her scars tells of a story that will leave you heartbroken. When Katie ex-boyfriend, abused her emotionally and physically, he left these physical scars on her heart and body. These scars were a constant reminder to Katie of the emotional and physical absuse that he left her. It was a reminder that her sense of hope, ability to trust and love again was tainted. But that all changes, when Kiefer Rogan walked into her life.
"She just is beautiful. But on the inside, I can already tell that she's more."
Kiefer Rogan walked into Katie's life and was like a beacon that represented hope, love, strength, and understanding. As a former soldier and MMA fighter, Kiefer is the new "IT" actor of the moment. So when he first laid his eyes on Katie, the makeup artist on his new TV show, he was instantly drawn to her. Her innocence and vulnerability spoke to him. He knew that he had to know the real Katie. And slowly, Rogan was able to break down the barriers and walls that she placed. He showed her that she didn't need to fear him. He allowed her to feel comfortable in her own skin and constantly reminded her that he didn't see her as ugly or imperfect because of the scars on her body. But instead, he embraced and loved every inch of her body. In his eyes, her scars weren't seen as ugly but as something beautiful and precious. It was a reminder that this woman who stole his heart was a fighter. She survived all the heartache, brokenness, and lived to tell it. And in turn, Rogan found a kindred spirit with Katie because they both were survivors.
"I want him to show up somewhere else in my life. I want more of Rogan. As unhealthy and inadvisable as it is, I want more."
The chemistry and bond exhibited by Katie and Rogan was palpable right off the opening pages. I was emotionally drawn to their brokenness, past and scars. Rogan was the perfect book hero. He was patient, kind, and had this soft nature that warmed your hearts. He was the strong alpha male but he had a heart of gold. I loved that he was able to bring out Katie's strength and show her what real love entails. I loved that when Katie was going through her own personal storm, Rogan's silent presence was more powerful than a million empty words. His love was able to piece back the shattered pieces of her life and through that their love healed both of them.
Tough Enough is a book that inspires hope and the need to fight. Fight for love. Fight for survival. And most importantly, the fight to live. Through this riveting tale, Ms. Leighton allows readers to see that our scars do not make us ugly. It is a reminder of our strength, courage, and will to live. From every wound, there is a scar. And every scar tells a story. A story that says you are, tough enough to face the battles and obstacles that stand in your way. Though TOUGH ENOUGH may have been classified as a romance novel, this book was so much more. Passion, strength, love, hope, and new beginnings were beautifully entangled and woven into the story allowing readers to FEEL for the characters. So if you are looking for a book that was brimming with a fierce tangible and palpable love story then I highly recommend you to read Tough Enough. Be prepared to have your heart held hostage as M. Leighton delivers and spellbinds you in this phenomenal masterpiece.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...M. Leighton
September 29, 2015
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
Tough Enough is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series by M. Leighton and I read it as a standalone although it might be better to read Strong Enough first so that you have all the pieces to the background story that is going on. I absolutely enjoy M. Leighton's writing style. She knows how to draw you into her characters quickly and thoroughly so that you feel vested in the outcome of the story. The prologue of this book sucks you right in because clearly Katie has been through a terrible, painful ordeal but you have no idea what the particulars of it are and you can't wait to uncover them.
Katie's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking. I don't want to spoil it because as it unfolds you literally hurt for her as the chapters unfold. She clearly isn't living life, she is just existing inside of the carefully constructed bubble she has encased herself in. You want her to heal. You want her to be able to move on from her horrific past.
From Rogan's first run in with Katie, you know he is going to be the one to break through. He is damaged and has a past that could have crushed him. Little does Katie know but Rogan is a survivor too. Rogan has a motto, "Fight to Survive. Fight to live." This motto couldn't be more true for him and Katie needs to see that she has fought to survive but has yet to fight to live.
There are some epic twists at the end that I should have seen coming but I was so enthralled in these two characters I missed it. I love it when a book surprises me and I love complications. Rogan and Katie have to fight for each other. Are they will to go the distance? You will root for these two until the end. Pick Tough Enough up today, you won't be disappointed.
Tough Enough is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series by M. Leighton and I read it as a standalone although it might be better to read Strong Enough first so that you have all the pieces to the background story that is going on. I absolutely enjoy M. Leighton's writing style. She knows how to draw you into her characters quickly and thoroughly so that you feel vested in the outcome of the story. The prologue of this book sucks you right in because clearly Katie has been through a terrible, painful ordeal but you have no idea what the particulars of it are and you can't wait to uncover them.
Katie's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking. I don't want to spoil it because as it unfolds you literally hurt for her as the chapters unfold. She clearly isn't living life, she is just existing inside of the carefully constructed bubble she has encased herself in. You want her to heal. You want her to be able to move on from her horrific past.
From Rogan's first run in with Katie, you know he is going to be the one to break through. He is damaged and has a past that could have crushed him. Little does Katie know but Rogan is a survivor too. Rogan has a motto, "Fight to Survive. Fight to live." This motto couldn't be more true for him and Katie needs to see that she has fought to survive but has yet to fight to live.
There are some epic twists at the end that I should have seen coming but I was so enthralled in these two characters I missed it. I love it when a book surprises me and I love complications. Rogan and Katie have to fight for each other. Are they will to go the distance? You will root for these two until the end. Pick Tough Enough up today, you won't be disappointed.
November 27, 2015
Normally I like this author, but this one not so much. I didn't care for Rogan, he was too slick, too determined to go after Katie not matter what. It seemed like he was determined to go after Katie because she wasn't interested in him, another turn off. I felt like I should have liked Katie more than I did, but she was so blah. After 100 pages I gave up, I didn't care if they ended up as a couple, if the brother was even not an asshole, if Victoria clued in. In the end this one just wasn't for me.
September 27, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1WVtS0u
Oh yeah. Tough Enough was a yummy make-your-toes-curl read! The slow building romance between intriguing characters, the narcoleptic cat and the dark undertones. An amazing hero and a fierce heroine. *swoons* I was all in. Leighton once again gave me all the delicious feels.
Okay so the quick of it, like I mentioned, is that Rogan is an MMA fighter and he's taking a go at acting with a gig on television show. And his first day on the job he totally falls for the show's make up artist, Katie. A woman that's definitely trying to blend in and fly under the radar but that does anything but that. She's special and he's hell bent and determined to uncover all of her secrets.
Rogan was the perfect blend of confident, cocky, and sweet. He's everything I look for in an alpha male and was just sexy as all hell. He was too cute picking up little surprises for Katie based off their conversations while she did his makeup. I loved seeing what he would come up with. He was just a great guy. I really liked Katie too! She's a quieter heroine and still trying to overcome a pretty horrible thing from her past. She tries not to stick out and resisted Rogan something fierce. I was totally into her though.
I loved them together too. It's a little slow going with her hesitations but I liked that. Seeing them get to know each other over the weeks while he was on the show and they were working together. Him slowly making progress. They were cute and easily made me smile. The tension was all kinds of hot and delicious. I liked the sweet side she brought out in him and that he helped her come back out of her shell. They were just good together. *sigh*
There's a bit of drama from her past that comes into play that was infuriating and brought in some issues they had to get over. Plus a growly brother of Rogan's who has me real interested. He's a wounded vet and pretty fucking pissed at the world. And I freaking LOVED his character and seeing Katie with him. Oh yeah. I'm real interested in that growly brother of his...
Things got a little chaotic there at the end with a few too many plot points exploding all at the same time but, really, Tough Enough was a fantastic ride. Leighton does not disappoint. I can't wait to go back to book one now.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1WVtS0u
Oh yeah. Tough Enough was a yummy make-your-toes-curl read! The slow building romance between intriguing characters, the narcoleptic cat and the dark undertones. An amazing hero and a fierce heroine. *swoons* I was all in. Leighton once again gave me all the delicious feels.
Okay so the quick of it, like I mentioned, is that Rogan is an MMA fighter and he's taking a go at acting with a gig on television show. And his first day on the job he totally falls for the show's make up artist, Katie. A woman that's definitely trying to blend in and fly under the radar but that does anything but that. She's special and he's hell bent and determined to uncover all of her secrets.
Rogan was the perfect blend of confident, cocky, and sweet. He's everything I look for in an alpha male and was just sexy as all hell. He was too cute picking up little surprises for Katie based off their conversations while she did his makeup. I loved seeing what he would come up with. He was just a great guy. I really liked Katie too! She's a quieter heroine and still trying to overcome a pretty horrible thing from her past. She tries not to stick out and resisted Rogan something fierce. I was totally into her though.
I loved them together too. It's a little slow going with her hesitations but I liked that. Seeing them get to know each other over the weeks while he was on the show and they were working together. Him slowly making progress. They were cute and easily made me smile. The tension was all kinds of hot and delicious. I liked the sweet side she brought out in him and that he helped her come back out of her shell. They were just good together. *sigh*
There's a bit of drama from her past that comes into play that was infuriating and brought in some issues they had to get over. Plus a growly brother of Rogan's who has me real interested. He's a wounded vet and pretty fucking pissed at the world. And I freaking LOVED his character and seeing Katie with him. Oh yeah. I'm real interested in that growly brother of his...
Things got a little chaotic there at the end with a few too many plot points exploding all at the same time but, really, Tough Enough was a fantastic ride. Leighton does not disappoint. I can't wait to go back to book one now.
November 2, 2015
Tough Enough made my heart beat fast, tears run from my eyes and my heart break… And then, it was put back together.
Katie has lived a hard life. She suffered at the hands of a monster and has reinvented herself as a way to survive. Rogan is a Hollywood star who recognizes something in her, and won’t take no for an answer. I couldn’t read this book fast enough. From when I started it, to the moment I finished it, the expanse of time was short. Just a mere four hours or so. It didn’t feel like that long—I was transported to the town of Enchantment, where both our Hero and Heroine take refuge.
It was easy for me to fall in love with Katie because I have many of her same thoughts and feelings. She’s real and relatable, and I love her growth throughout the book. Rogan is hot, hunky and semi-unobtainable? But is he really? If you are true lover of love stories, this is for you! The feels are off the charts. There’s a bit of mystery to keep you interested if you need it also. Now, where’s my real life Rogan? ~ Heather, 5 stars
~~~
Wow! This book just blew me away! It was such a sweet, emotional journey!
This is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series and I loved it even more than the first. It is Keifer Rogan’s story. Keifer had a hard life growing up, but overcame all of that to become a champion MMA fighter and actor.
“Fight to survive. Fight to live.”
Katie Ryland has also had a hard life. She is hiding herself and her secrets in a small town called Enchantment working as a make-up artist. She is quiet, shy, and doesn’t open up easily.
Rogan is one of the many actors to grace Katie’s chair. But from the very first time, she can tell that he is different. Slowly, he helps Katie open up and trust again. It was such an amazing transformation!
This book really had it all! It was sexy and sweet. The chemistry between Katie & Rogan was off the charts hot.
“I could drink come from you like wine. Sweet, creamy wine. But not this time. This time,” he explains, his voice gruff and sexy, “I wanna feel you squeezin’ my cock when you come.”
It was sad and emotional; learning both Katie’s and Rogan’s secrets was hard, but it really helped you see why they are the way they are. It had action and drama. I read it in one sitting and couldn’t get enough! I loved that we got to see some of Jasper and Muse, as well as Tag—I can’t wait for Tag’s book next! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
Katie has lived a hard life. She suffered at the hands of a monster and has reinvented herself as a way to survive. Rogan is a Hollywood star who recognizes something in her, and won’t take no for an answer. I couldn’t read this book fast enough. From when I started it, to the moment I finished it, the expanse of time was short. Just a mere four hours or so. It didn’t feel like that long—I was transported to the town of Enchantment, where both our Hero and Heroine take refuge.
It was easy for me to fall in love with Katie because I have many of her same thoughts and feelings. She’s real and relatable, and I love her growth throughout the book. Rogan is hot, hunky and semi-unobtainable? But is he really? If you are true lover of love stories, this is for you! The feels are off the charts. There’s a bit of mystery to keep you interested if you need it also. Now, where’s my real life Rogan? ~ Heather, 5 stars
~~~
Wow! This book just blew me away! It was such a sweet, emotional journey!
This is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series and I loved it even more than the first. It is Keifer Rogan’s story. Keifer had a hard life growing up, but overcame all of that to become a champion MMA fighter and actor.
“Fight to survive. Fight to live.”
Katie Ryland has also had a hard life. She is hiding herself and her secrets in a small town called Enchantment working as a make-up artist. She is quiet, shy, and doesn’t open up easily.
Rogan is one of the many actors to grace Katie’s chair. But from the very first time, she can tell that he is different. Slowly, he helps Katie open up and trust again. It was such an amazing transformation!
This book really had it all! It was sexy and sweet. The chemistry between Katie & Rogan was off the charts hot.
“I could drink come from you like wine. Sweet, creamy wine. But not this time. This time,” he explains, his voice gruff and sexy, “I wanna feel you squeezin’ my cock when you come.”
It was sad and emotional; learning both Katie’s and Rogan’s secrets was hard, but it really helped you see why they are the way they are. It had action and drama. I read it in one sitting and couldn’t get enough! I loved that we got to see some of Jasper and Muse, as well as Tag—I can’t wait for Tag’s book next! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
November 2, 2015
~*~ 4.5 STARS ~*~
Sexy, edgy, and full of emotion! A stellar addition to an exciting and scorching HOT series! This author is a master of emotion in her romances. Every page packs an emotional punch like no other. Even though this lacked the amount of suspense that was in the first book, it was no less entertaining. A change of pace for sure, but it still flowed so nicely and the heat factor was through the roof. TOUGH ENOUGH is a beautiful love story about two people who find beauty past all of the scars. They learn from each other that the scars they bare are what make them who they are, and they shouldn't be ashamed. It's incredibly touching and had me shedding some heavy tears every now and then. With ever scar they find, the deeper they fall for each other. The heat, the want, the delicious torture, made this story a fantastic read!
I highlighted the hell out of this book. Every quote spoke to me. Every word jumped out at me and embedded itself in my heart. My heart ached. My heart soared. The pit in my stomach grew and grew from the intensity of it all. This is a love story with such a strong message. It's real. It's raw. It's beautiful. I didn't expect less from the incredible M. Leighton. This installment of the series just made me even more excited for this series! TOUGH ENOUGH was a powerful and all-consuming love story. It's about fighting to survive. Fighting to live. Fighting to love. It's about seeing the beauty in tragedy. It's about perseverance and hope.
"Can't you just trust me? Just a little? Can't you let me love you?"
"Please don't disappoint me."
"I'd rather take a beating than disappoint you."
That is just a small taste of what is to come. There is so much love, tenderness, and beauty in this book. M. Leighton touched my soul with this one! This is a story that is sure to please Leighton fans and series devotees alike.
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Sexy, edgy, and full of emotion! A stellar addition to an exciting and scorching HOT series! This author is a master of emotion in her romances. Every page packs an emotional punch like no other. Even though this lacked the amount of suspense that was in the first book, it was no less entertaining. A change of pace for sure, but it still flowed so nicely and the heat factor was through the roof. TOUGH ENOUGH is a beautiful love story about two people who find beauty past all of the scars. They learn from each other that the scars they bare are what make them who they are, and they shouldn't be ashamed. It's incredibly touching and had me shedding some heavy tears every now and then. With ever scar they find, the deeper they fall for each other. The heat, the want, the delicious torture, made this story a fantastic read!
I highlighted the hell out of this book. Every quote spoke to me. Every word jumped out at me and embedded itself in my heart. My heart ached. My heart soared. The pit in my stomach grew and grew from the intensity of it all. This is a love story with such a strong message. It's real. It's raw. It's beautiful. I didn't expect less from the incredible M. Leighton. This installment of the series just made me even more excited for this series! TOUGH ENOUGH was a powerful and all-consuming love story. It's about fighting to survive. Fighting to live. Fighting to love. It's about seeing the beauty in tragedy. It's about perseverance and hope.
"Can't you just trust me? Just a little? Can't you let me love you?"
"Please don't disappoint me."
"I'd rather take a beating than disappoint you."
That is just a small taste of what is to come. There is so much love, tenderness, and beauty in this book. M. Leighton touched my soul with this one! This is a story that is sure to please Leighton fans and series devotees alike.
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
November 3, 2015
Copyright Night Owl Reviews
Tough Enough is the second book in M. Leighton's Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series. It revolves around Keifer Rogan, a MMA fighter who is popular for both his good looks and his right hooks. He is intrigued by Katie Rylan, a make-up artist who tries to be invisible when it comes to the outside world.
As always, M. Leighton skillfully produces a story with complicated characters and dark pasts. This book starts out as more of a contemporary romance, but the last few chapters turn into romantic suspense when Rogan meets up with his old Special Forces buddies. Even though the person they were looking for in the first book is revealed in this one, I was hoping there would be more updates on the search throughout the first part of the book. I suppose that was more Jax's responsibility, however, after the death of his mother in the previous one.
To see my full review, please click the link below:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
Tough Enough is the second book in M. Leighton's Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series. It revolves around Keifer Rogan, a MMA fighter who is popular for both his good looks and his right hooks. He is intrigued by Katie Rylan, a make-up artist who tries to be invisible when it comes to the outside world.
As always, M. Leighton skillfully produces a story with complicated characters and dark pasts. This book starts out as more of a contemporary romance, but the last few chapters turn into romantic suspense when Rogan meets up with his old Special Forces buddies. Even though the person they were looking for in the first book is revealed in this one, I was hoping there would be more updates on the search throughout the first part of the book. I suppose that was more Jax's responsibility, however, after the death of his mother in the previous one.
To see my full review, please click the link below:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
November 3, 2015
LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!
OMG...this book...
Ahhhhhh....I am totally in love with ROGAN!!!
PHENOMENAL read...more review to come...
Full review:
Well this is it... M. LEIGHTON has blown me away and this book is my new number one by her...
Seriously.. It is one of my all time favorites..
This book hits you in the heart... Two people with such histories that when they come together its breath-taking..
Gah I am swooning crazily right now thinking about it...
I love Katie.. She's so strong yet so insecure.. But Rogan is just the guy to help her grow in to the woman she wants to be..
Now Rogan... ROGAN!!!!! *sighs heavily*
This man... He is IT!! My new number one book boyfriend too!!!
Ahhhhh!!!!
Tough Enough is a beautifully written romance that totally captivates you.. It wedged itself deep in to my soul and all I can say is that it will forever be there..
It is that book that you compare others to...
Yep.. Tough Enough is the standard for me...
Get this book!!!
OMG...this book...
Ahhhhhh....I am totally in love with ROGAN!!!
PHENOMENAL read...more review to come...
Full review:
Well this is it... M. LEIGHTON has blown me away and this book is my new number one by her...
Seriously.. It is one of my all time favorites..
This book hits you in the heart... Two people with such histories that when they come together its breath-taking..
Gah I am swooning crazily right now thinking about it...
I love Katie.. She's so strong yet so insecure.. But Rogan is just the guy to help her grow in to the woman she wants to be..
Now Rogan... ROGAN!!!!! *sighs heavily*
This man... He is IT!! My new number one book boyfriend too!!!
Ahhhhh!!!!
Tough Enough is a beautifully written romance that totally captivates you.. It wedged itself deep in to my soul and all I can say is that it will forever be there..
It is that book that you compare others to...
Yep.. Tough Enough is the standard for me...
Get this book!!!
May 6, 2017
Wow Rogan has me blushing as I read this. I love how he flirts with Katie and will do anything to make her smile. This book is filled with sexual tension. I love this book it was a great read.
I wish we could get more of Kurt Rogan's brother. He is handicapped hating that he now has to depend on someone else.
I wish we could get more of Kurt Rogan's brother. He is handicapped hating that he now has to depend on someone else.
November 3, 2015
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
I am in love with this book. It was so freakin good and I want to keep Rogan all to myself. This is definitely one of my favorite M. Leighton reads to date. I love all of her books, but this one is very special for me. I just loved the story and the characters and the romance and everything about it.
I’m starting with Rogan because I just cannot contain myself when it comes to him. Rogan is a fantastic character and I fell so hard for him. I kinda felt like I was cheating on Trick as I was reading this one. Anyone who knows me knows that Trick from The Wild Ones is my favorite Michelle man but Rogan gave Trick a run for his money. Rogan was just everything I love. His is strong, funny, charming, determined, persistent, sweet, caring, and the list goes on and on. Rogan is such a good guy and the way he pursed Katie was so heartwarming. He saw something in Katie that drew him in and he knew she was worth fighting for. Oh and just icing on the cake, Rogan is an MMA fighter, actor, and former soldier all rolled into one. Cam we say yum?
I loved Katie too. She is so resilient and I love how she has kept going despite her past. She has lived through some truly horrible things and she is so brave and strong and I truly admired her strength. I also liked her wit and sense of humor and I also really loved that her favorite show is The Walking Dead. That right there proves she has impeccable taste.
As with any M. Leighton book the romance was fantastic. Rogan and Katie have incredible chemistry and the steam factor in this one is off the charts. Michelle has a knack for writing great steamy scenes and this book was no exception. Rogan and Katie are ridiculously hot. But outside of that, their romance is simply beautiful. They both have scars, internal and external, and the way they interact and truly understand one another is beautiful. I loved how deep their connection went and that it was formed on so much more than their physical attraction. The thing that truly drew them together is the way they understood one another in a way that others couldn’t.
Tough Enough was a great read and I know this is a book I will be revisiting again. Rogan has stolen my heart and I don’t think I’ll be getting it back.
I am in love with this book. It was so freakin good and I want to keep Rogan all to myself. This is definitely one of my favorite M. Leighton reads to date. I love all of her books, but this one is very special for me. I just loved the story and the characters and the romance and everything about it.
I’m starting with Rogan because I just cannot contain myself when it comes to him. Rogan is a fantastic character and I fell so hard for him. I kinda felt like I was cheating on Trick as I was reading this one. Anyone who knows me knows that Trick from The Wild Ones is my favorite Michelle man but Rogan gave Trick a run for his money. Rogan was just everything I love. His is strong, funny, charming, determined, persistent, sweet, caring, and the list goes on and on. Rogan is such a good guy and the way he pursed Katie was so heartwarming. He saw something in Katie that drew him in and he knew she was worth fighting for. Oh and just icing on the cake, Rogan is an MMA fighter, actor, and former soldier all rolled into one. Cam we say yum?
I loved Katie too. She is so resilient and I love how she has kept going despite her past. She has lived through some truly horrible things and she is so brave and strong and I truly admired her strength. I also liked her wit and sense of humor and I also really loved that her favorite show is The Walking Dead. That right there proves she has impeccable taste.
As with any M. Leighton book the romance was fantastic. Rogan and Katie have incredible chemistry and the steam factor in this one is off the charts. Michelle has a knack for writing great steamy scenes and this book was no exception. Rogan and Katie are ridiculously hot. But outside of that, their romance is simply beautiful. They both have scars, internal and external, and the way they interact and truly understand one another is beautiful. I loved how deep their connection went and that it was formed on so much more than their physical attraction. The thing that truly drew them together is the way they understood one another in a way that others couldn’t.
Tough Enough was a great read and I know this is a book I will be revisiting again. Rogan has stolen my heart and I don’t think I’ll be getting it back.
April 6, 2016
If M. Leighton is the author, I'm down to read it. Period. End of story. Why? Because every book I read from her is better than the last. Her characters feel real and I totally fall for them. Her stories surprise me and have me crying and gasping out loud. The romance is steamy and has me fanning myself. And because I always, always enjoy every word.
Rogan is just yum. He's persistent and determined with Katie but he doesn't push. Something in her draws him to her - I think it's their shared pain and scars in their past - but he just can't leave her alone. He brings her little gifts that are so adorable and kind. She resists. He pursues. Charming. So charming. He's protective, strong and caring. Can he get any better? Of course he can. Did I tell you he's a MMA champion turned actor. Ex-military and the complete package.
His relationship with his brother has me wanting to hug him. As I learned more about what happened to him growing up, I wanted to hold him. Perfect. He's just about perfect.
Katie is a sweetie. Her struggles have been so hard on her. She's drawn into herself to protect herself and she's fine there but not happy...not living. Rogan teaches her to live again. And together they are better though she's not convinced it's for good. And nothing in this authors books is so simple. And, of course, this one has more to the story. Are they tough enough together?
The chemistry between this two is off the charts and I enjoyed every kiss, every caress, every heat infused moment between them. The want between them is palpable. So enjoyable. So yummy. So perfect.
I loved this book. I savored it and wanted to drink in every word. When I finished, I just wanted to start again...to keep enjoying it.
If you read the first one, you'll want this one. If you didn't, you'll still want this one. Don't let it slip by without some serious snuggle time.
Rogan is just yum. He's persistent and determined with Katie but he doesn't push. Something in her draws him to her - I think it's their shared pain and scars in their past - but he just can't leave her alone. He brings her little gifts that are so adorable and kind. She resists. He pursues. Charming. So charming. He's protective, strong and caring. Can he get any better? Of course he can. Did I tell you he's a MMA champion turned actor. Ex-military and the complete package.
His relationship with his brother has me wanting to hug him. As I learned more about what happened to him growing up, I wanted to hold him. Perfect. He's just about perfect.
Katie is a sweetie. Her struggles have been so hard on her. She's drawn into herself to protect herself and she's fine there but not happy...not living. Rogan teaches her to live again. And together they are better though she's not convinced it's for good. And nothing in this authors books is so simple. And, of course, this one has more to the story. Are they tough enough together?
The chemistry between this two is off the charts and I enjoyed every kiss, every caress, every heat infused moment between them. The want between them is palpable. So enjoyable. So yummy. So perfect.
I loved this book. I savored it and wanted to drink in every word. When I finished, I just wanted to start again...to keep enjoying it.
If you read the first one, you'll want this one. If you didn't, you'll still want this one. Don't let it slip by without some serious snuggle time.
November 19, 2015
I was highly impressed with Tough Enough, and as my first M.Leighton book...it surely won't be my last. What I really liked about this one was the way the plot develops and how both of the main characters were so likable. I always love it when a character struggles with some emotional and/or physical trauma (which our heroine does). I just couldn't get enough of these two, and seeing the way their relationship really gets tested in the end. Makes for a fully satisfying romance and I can't wait to read more from this author.
January 23, 2016
I have enjoyed M. Leighton other books, but this one did nothing for me. I barely finished it. Found myself skimming.
June 3, 2017
In order for a romance to work for me, I have to connect with the characters. I don't always have to like them but I have to think they are interesting.
I didn't like the hero. He was no attuned to the heroine. I didn't care for the heroine either as she was really judgmental and I was stuck in her head.
They could have both grown and it would have been a more enjoyable book as the writing is well done but they didn't do that with any compelling elements and too slow for me.
So, I didn't care about them in the end.
I didn't like the hero. He was no attuned to the heroine. I didn't care for the heroine either as she was really judgmental and I was stuck in her head.
They could have both grown and it would have been a more enjoyable book as the writing is well done but they didn't do that with any compelling elements and too slow for me.
So, I didn't care about them in the end.
December 7, 2015
M. Leighton has written another incredible addition to her new Tall, Dark and Dangerous series. Tough Enough had a different feel and flavor to it than Strong Enough (Tall, Dark and Dangerous #1). Where Strong Enough was dark and suspenseful, Tough Enough was more light and hopeful. That didn't make book 2 any less impactful. On the contrary - I loved Katie and her flaws. And, of course, I LOVED Rogan and his... well, everything, really.
Katie and Rogan meet when he was tapped to star in a new television series and Katie is his makeup artist. Kiefer Rogan is hot. Like, H-O-T. And, he's used to women fawning over him and falling over themselves to talk to him. Of course men like him are always so intrigued by women who could care less about them, right?
That's definitely Katie. She's been scarred both on the outside and the inside, and after being kicked down so many times, she's just done. She has no interest in forming any more emotional attachments, especially with men. Even though Rogan gets to her. More than she's comfortable with.
My gut told me he would be trouble. I just never expected him to be this kind of trouble. No one affects me this way anymore. No one. It's been safer for me that no one has. And I liked it that way. Because this isn't safe.
Katie never planned for Rogan. She was just trying to lay low and stay hidden from the ones who ruined her life. Keep her scars hidden from anyone who might see them. It's interesting that she's a makeup artist - one trained to hide others' scars so well, and yet, she still struggles to keep her own under wraps. She sees herself as worthless and unimportant, and she can't understand at all why Rogan even gives her the time of day. Katie made me so sad at times - she was so alone, even in a room of people.
"Maybe he thinks I'm a challenge because I didn't fall at his feet. I don't know, but whatever it is, it won't take him long to realize that I'm not a challenge. I'm nothing. I'm not worth his interest. His time. His attention. I'm nothing special. When he sees that, he'll move on."
But, Rogan - he has charm oozing out of every beautiful pore. Through some well timed coffee deliveries and cries for help with his lines, Rogan is able to draw Katie out of her shell enough for her to share her story - and her scars - with him. For all of Rogan's roguish ways, he takes the trust she places in him very seriously. It only solidifies what he's feeling for her and his fierce need to protect her.
"Let me bring you back to life," he whispers brushing his lips over mine in a kiss even softer than his words. "Inch by inch, day by day, touch by touch."
As it turns out, Katie has developed a strong need to protect Rogan as well, which she discovers when her past comes back to threaten both her and the potential future she was trying to carve out with Rogan. Katie finds that she's willing to sacrifice anything to keep him safe. And, isn't that a nice change of pace?
I absolutely loved Katie and Rogan together. They were like two sides to the same coin. Individually, they had lives, but they weren't really living like they wanted to be. Together, they found the most amazing chemistry and vibrancy in life. I loved so much that Tough Enough was told in dual POV. Rogan's chapters were my absolute favorite. His fascination with Katie in the beginning was adorable, and later when his feelings went beyond fascination, I loved seeing Rogan go into full on protection mode.
We did hear briefly from Jasper, but there wasn't much that was said about the conspiracy plot that was introduced in book 1. Tough Enough was completely focused on the relationship between Katie and Rogan, so I wonder if we'll get back to the super suspenseful stuff in book 3, Brave Enough. Either way, there was enough drama, suspense and intrigue in Tough Enough to keep me on the edge of my seat, and enough heat between Katie and Rogan to keep me happily panting from page to page. Hell - that right there is most definitely worth the price of admission.
Katie and Rogan meet when he was tapped to star in a new television series and Katie is his makeup artist. Kiefer Rogan is hot. Like, H-O-T. And, he's used to women fawning over him and falling over themselves to talk to him. Of course men like him are always so intrigued by women who could care less about them, right?
That's definitely Katie. She's been scarred both on the outside and the inside, and after being kicked down so many times, she's just done. She has no interest in forming any more emotional attachments, especially with men. Even though Rogan gets to her. More than she's comfortable with.
My gut told me he would be trouble. I just never expected him to be this kind of trouble. No one affects me this way anymore. No one. It's been safer for me that no one has. And I liked it that way. Because this isn't safe.
Katie never planned for Rogan. She was just trying to lay low and stay hidden from the ones who ruined her life. Keep her scars hidden from anyone who might see them. It's interesting that she's a makeup artist - one trained to hide others' scars so well, and yet, she still struggles to keep her own under wraps. She sees herself as worthless and unimportant, and she can't understand at all why Rogan even gives her the time of day. Katie made me so sad at times - she was so alone, even in a room of people.
"Maybe he thinks I'm a challenge because I didn't fall at his feet. I don't know, but whatever it is, it won't take him long to realize that I'm not a challenge. I'm nothing. I'm not worth his interest. His time. His attention. I'm nothing special. When he sees that, he'll move on."
But, Rogan - he has charm oozing out of every beautiful pore. Through some well timed coffee deliveries and cries for help with his lines, Rogan is able to draw Katie out of her shell enough for her to share her story - and her scars - with him. For all of Rogan's roguish ways, he takes the trust she places in him very seriously. It only solidifies what he's feeling for her and his fierce need to protect her.
"Let me bring you back to life," he whispers brushing his lips over mine in a kiss even softer than his words. "Inch by inch, day by day, touch by touch."
As it turns out, Katie has developed a strong need to protect Rogan as well, which she discovers when her past comes back to threaten both her and the potential future she was trying to carve out with Rogan. Katie finds that she's willing to sacrifice anything to keep him safe. And, isn't that a nice change of pace?
I absolutely loved Katie and Rogan together. They were like two sides to the same coin. Individually, they had lives, but they weren't really living like they wanted to be. Together, they found the most amazing chemistry and vibrancy in life. I loved so much that Tough Enough was told in dual POV. Rogan's chapters were my absolute favorite. His fascination with Katie in the beginning was adorable, and later when his feelings went beyond fascination, I loved seeing Rogan go into full on protection mode.
We did hear briefly from Jasper, but there wasn't much that was said about the conspiracy plot that was introduced in book 1. Tough Enough was completely focused on the relationship between Katie and Rogan, so I wonder if we'll get back to the super suspenseful stuff in book 3, Brave Enough. Either way, there was enough drama, suspense and intrigue in Tough Enough to keep me on the edge of my seat, and enough heat between Katie and Rogan to keep me happily panting from page to page. Hell - that right there is most definitely worth the price of admission.
July 20, 2017
Originally posted at Booklovers For Life
“Pugnare superesse. Vivere pugna. Fight to survive. Fight to live.”
Tough Enough is so, so, sooooo sweet!!!! I love Rogan so freaking much! He’s one of the sweetest heroes I’ve ever read, and I absolutely adored him. I actually wasn’t expecting this book to be as wonderfully romantic as it was, so it was such a great surprise to find out that Rogan is as sweet and heart-melting as he is sexy and alpha. He and Katie are perfect together – I simply adored their story. The romance in Tough Enough swept me away and had my heart swooning and sighing. I highly recommend this book for those who love romances!
“You think I don’t see you, don’t you? But I do. I see you. I could watch you and see you all day and never get tired of it.”
M. Leighton always writes the most wonderful heroes, but I have to say, Rogan is now my top favorite hero of hers. I LOVED HIM! Sweet, utterly smitten with Katie, but also powerful and dangerous. He may be a fighter, but he’s a lover at heart, and the second he sees Katie, he’s totally gone for her. But Katie has her own scars and an abusive past that prevents her from jumping into anything with Rogan, no matter how much she wants this man, who’s gorgeous inside and out. She’s the kind of girl I instantly related to – down-to-earth, sweet, self-conscious. She’s amazed that someone like Rogan could want her, and while I normally would’ve been annoyed by that attitude, it worked with her. I understood her so well and my heart broke at the painful past she has. But being with Rogan changes everything for her, and where she was once existing, he now makes her start to truly live.
“This . . . you are the closest I’ve come to living in a long time.”
“Then let me bring you back to life,” he whispers, brushing his lips over mine in a kiss even softer than his words. “Inch by inch, day by day, touch by touch.”
Katie and Rogan were both fantastic, dynamic characters that I grew addicted to reading about. And the chemistry between them is on fire! My heart grew invested in their characters and story because I loved them so much. I also enjoyed being in both their POVs. I especially appreciated the individual journey that Katie goes through. She learns to love herself and grow confident in herself, thanks to Rogan. Ah, I just want grab Katie and hug her, she’s such a sweetheart of a heroine!
The main reason I can’t give this book 5 stars is because I was expecting something… different. After reading Strong Enough, I thought Tough Enough would also have a strong romantic suspense theme, but this book is very much just straight-up contemporary romance with only the barest hints of suspense. If I’d known that going in, I’m sure this easily would’ve been a 5 star read, but since I was kind of looking forward to some action, I was a little let down. Still, I really did love this book – M. Leighton knows how to write romance, and she’s blown me away with Katie and Rogan’s heart-wrenchingly sweet love story.
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/1GVGKI7
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1Fc4rL6
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November 5, 2015
4.25 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 3, 2015
He’s a fighter who never loses, but is he tough enough to win her heart?
There was a time when I had everything–a wonderful family, a bright future. Love. But all that was taken away in a single night, torn from me like flesh from bone. Since then, I’ve hidden away in my second-choice job as a makeup artist. But I prefer it that way, actually. I’m comfortable in the shadows, where no one can see my scars.
Kiefer Rogan literally took my breath away the moment I met him. MMA champion-turned-actor, notorious playboy, charming to a fault—he’s everything I vowed to avoid.
But he just wouldn’t stop until I opened up and let him in. Maybe I should’ve tried harder to resist him. Maybe I shouldn’t have fallen in love with him. Because I, of all people, know that everyone has secrets. Scars. And that they’re usually ugly and painful and destructive to the people we love most.
I just never guessed that they could be deadly, too.
•••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars---TOUGH ENOUGH is the second installment in M.Leighton’s contemporary, adult Tall, Dark and Dangerous erotic, romantic suspense series. This is actor/MMA fighter/ former Special Ops soldier Kiefer “The Rain” Rogan, and make-up artist to the stars Katie Rydale’s storyline. TOUGH ENOUGH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storyline is revealed where necessary.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Kiefer and Katie) TOUGH ENOUGH follows the building relationship between Kiefer and Katie. Katie is the make-up artist for Kiefer’s latest movie, and with it comes the attraction towards a man she wants to avoid-Kiefer’s reputation with the ladies precedes their introduction. Katie is a young woman who is merely existing on a day to day basis, and Kiefer is the man who will push Katie to go for what she wants. What ensues is Kiefer’s seduction of Katie Rydale-a woman with secrets she wants kept hidden.
Kiefer is a man who appears to have everything under control but his past is bout to catch up with him and the men from Delta Five. Kiefer and his fellow army buddies have been targeted for destruction and with it comes an investigation into the who, what and why. We are reintroduced to Muse Harper and Jasper King (Strong Enough #1), as well as Tag, and Kiefer’s brother Kurt. Kurt has been confined to a wheel chair following a devastating attack by someone close. Katie’s best friend Mona plays a pivotal role in setting up Kiefer and Katie; Mona needs her own storyline and a happily ever after.
The relationship between Kiefer and Katie is one of immediate attraction but Katie keeps Kiefer at arm’s length. Katie’s secrets hide both emotional and physical scars that have control over her life; Kiefer’s own secrets are rooted deeply in Katie’s past. The $ex scenes are erotic, intimate and intense.
The world building focuses on abuse, revenge, betrayal and love, but also on the hunt for the person(s) responsible for destroying the men of Delta Five.
M. Leighton pulls the reader into a story of romance and love; retribution and deception; power and greed. The premise is entertaining; the characters are flawed but loveable ; the romance is inspiring, seductive and hot. There are a few twists and turns, and a conflict resolution that ends rather quickly. I was hoping for a few more details and backstory.
Copy supplied by the publisher and Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 3, 2015
He’s a fighter who never loses, but is he tough enough to win her heart?
There was a time when I had everything–a wonderful family, a bright future. Love. But all that was taken away in a single night, torn from me like flesh from bone. Since then, I’ve hidden away in my second-choice job as a makeup artist. But I prefer it that way, actually. I’m comfortable in the shadows, where no one can see my scars.
Kiefer Rogan literally took my breath away the moment I met him. MMA champion-turned-actor, notorious playboy, charming to a fault—he’s everything I vowed to avoid.
But he just wouldn’t stop until I opened up and let him in. Maybe I should’ve tried harder to resist him. Maybe I shouldn’t have fallen in love with him. Because I, of all people, know that everyone has secrets. Scars. And that they’re usually ugly and painful and destructive to the people we love most.
I just never guessed that they could be deadly, too.
•••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars---TOUGH ENOUGH is the second installment in M.Leighton’s contemporary, adult Tall, Dark and Dangerous erotic, romantic suspense series. This is actor/MMA fighter/ former Special Ops soldier Kiefer “The Rain” Rogan, and make-up artist to the stars Katie Rydale’s storyline. TOUGH ENOUGH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storyline is revealed where necessary.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Kiefer and Katie) TOUGH ENOUGH follows the building relationship between Kiefer and Katie. Katie is the make-up artist for Kiefer’s latest movie, and with it comes the attraction towards a man she wants to avoid-Kiefer’s reputation with the ladies precedes their introduction. Katie is a young woman who is merely existing on a day to day basis, and Kiefer is the man who will push Katie to go for what she wants. What ensues is Kiefer’s seduction of Katie Rydale-a woman with secrets she wants kept hidden.
Kiefer is a man who appears to have everything under control but his past is bout to catch up with him and the men from Delta Five. Kiefer and his fellow army buddies have been targeted for destruction and with it comes an investigation into the who, what and why. We are reintroduced to Muse Harper and Jasper King (Strong Enough #1), as well as Tag, and Kiefer’s brother Kurt. Kurt has been confined to a wheel chair following a devastating attack by someone close. Katie’s best friend Mona plays a pivotal role in setting up Kiefer and Katie; Mona needs her own storyline and a happily ever after.
The relationship between Kiefer and Katie is one of immediate attraction but Katie keeps Kiefer at arm’s length. Katie’s secrets hide both emotional and physical scars that have control over her life; Kiefer’s own secrets are rooted deeply in Katie’s past. The $ex scenes are erotic, intimate and intense.
The world building focuses on abuse, revenge, betrayal and love, but also on the hunt for the person(s) responsible for destroying the men of Delta Five.
M. Leighton pulls the reader into a story of romance and love; retribution and deception; power and greed. The premise is entertaining; the characters are flawed but loveable ; the romance is inspiring, seductive and hot. There are a few twists and turns, and a conflict resolution that ends rather quickly. I was hoping for a few more details and backstory.
Copy supplied by the publisher and Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
October 31, 2015
4.5 stars
Katie Rydale, a make up artist, has no idea how the next man that sits in her make up chair is going to change her life. Kiefer Rogan is a former military specialist turned MMA fighter/actor and from the moment he hears Katie talking about him with her friend he is intrigued and by the time he sees her, he knows she will be his next mission.
Katie has been hiding her true self for years and is basically just a shell of her former self, she is fairly isolated, untrusting, and does not do relationships. She has issues from her past that still affect her, fears, and insecurities. She is in no way prepared to take on Rogan.
Rogan is intrigued by the one woman who is trying hard to resist him. He's charismatic, flirty, sexy , funny, and determined. He plans on wearing down her defenses and wants to see the real person she tries to hide. He will have a big fight on his hands, but that is okay since he is used to fighting for what he wants.
They have a fun, witty rapport and good chemistry. He pushes, she pulls back, they circle around each other, and have to dodge some punches. But eventually her resistance is futile.
But they are on borrowed time and their lives are totally different. Are they tough enough to deal with their pasts and not break again? Will it bring them closer or tear them apart?
This installment was less about suspense and intrigue, and more abut survival and fighting to truly live. They both have secrets and past pain that is slowly revealed throughout the story. They will both have to learn to trust, takes risks, accept things that they can't change, and share feelings if they ever want a real chance. But not all fairy tales are pretty and perfect and work out easily.
I was glad to get a little bit of Jasper, Muse, and Tag from Strong Enough. The story arc involving them was still being explored in this one. I am interested in Tag's story and I also enjoyed Rogan's grumpy brother Russ and Katie's sweet and funny friend Mona.
This was romantic, dramatic sweet, funny, sexy, and inspiring. It was told in both points of view and flowed well. The characters were flawed and a bit broken, but likable. It had some dark subject matter but was tempered by humor and a strong connection. I totally fell for Rogan. He was such a sweet and swoony hero with just enough damage and toughness to give him an edge. And Katie had inner strength and I liked seeing her try to take her life back. There were mysteries, secrets, and some twists and turns.
It technically can be read as a stand alone since the plot line for this one and featured couple was different than the first book, but there is still the ongoing story dealing with their former military team that continued in this story. So you would get the most out of it by reading Strong Enough first. I can't wait for Tag's story Brave Enough.
ARC provided by publisher and author in exchange for an honest review.
Katie Rydale, a make up artist, has no idea how the next man that sits in her make up chair is going to change her life. Kiefer Rogan is a former military specialist turned MMA fighter/actor and from the moment he hears Katie talking about him with her friend he is intrigued and by the time he sees her, he knows she will be his next mission.
Katie has been hiding her true self for years and is basically just a shell of her former self, she is fairly isolated, untrusting, and does not do relationships. She has issues from her past that still affect her, fears, and insecurities. She is in no way prepared to take on Rogan.
Rogan is intrigued by the one woman who is trying hard to resist him. He's charismatic, flirty, sexy , funny, and determined. He plans on wearing down her defenses and wants to see the real person she tries to hide. He will have a big fight on his hands, but that is okay since he is used to fighting for what he wants.
They have a fun, witty rapport and good chemistry. He pushes, she pulls back, they circle around each other, and have to dodge some punches. But eventually her resistance is futile.
But they are on borrowed time and their lives are totally different. Are they tough enough to deal with their pasts and not break again? Will it bring them closer or tear them apart?
This installment was less about suspense and intrigue, and more abut survival and fighting to truly live. They both have secrets and past pain that is slowly revealed throughout the story. They will both have to learn to trust, takes risks, accept things that they can't change, and share feelings if they ever want a real chance. But not all fairy tales are pretty and perfect and work out easily.
I was glad to get a little bit of Jasper, Muse, and Tag from Strong Enough. The story arc involving them was still being explored in this one. I am interested in Tag's story and I also enjoyed Rogan's grumpy brother Russ and Katie's sweet and funny friend Mona.
This was romantic, dramatic sweet, funny, sexy, and inspiring. It was told in both points of view and flowed well. The characters were flawed and a bit broken, but likable. It had some dark subject matter but was tempered by humor and a strong connection. I totally fell for Rogan. He was such a sweet and swoony hero with just enough damage and toughness to give him an edge. And Katie had inner strength and I liked seeing her try to take her life back. There were mysteries, secrets, and some twists and turns.
It technically can be read as a stand alone since the plot line for this one and featured couple was different than the first book, but there is still the ongoing story dealing with their former military team that continued in this story. So you would get the most out of it by reading Strong Enough first. I can't wait for Tag's story Brave Enough.
ARC provided by publisher and author in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
Review for Tough Enough by M. Leighton
Tough Enough is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series by M. Leighton; it can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading Strong Enough first for a better reading experience. There are many elements to the underlying storyline that unfold throughout the series that you’d miss out on if you skipped book one.
Leighton has a truly fantastic writing style, the way she builds her stories keeps you riveted — waiting to see how her characters’ lives will unfold. Then when you realize how intricately they are connected, you are sideswiped by the pure genius of it all. From the main characters to the secondary characters you never get the sense that someone is unnecessary filler like in so many other books. Everyone serves a purpose and plays their parts to build a more dynamic tale.
Katie has lived through more trauma than any one person should ever have to survive. It is so heartbreaking to watch through her eyes how deeply those events impact her life. My heart bleeds for her. It’s impossible not to root for her — to want her to find her way and start LIVING instead of merely existing. Anyone who has ever experienced great loss or been a victim of some type of abuse will connect with her on a personal level; it gives her a face, a person to grieve with, to heal with.
“The thing is, we can still survive. Even if pieces are scarred. Or dead. Or even missing. We can still survive. We can still live.”
Rogan is also another damaged soul. He’s a survivor, but instead of letting the weight of his past crush him, he’s taken that hurt and created a life that gives him every opportunity to be a better man. Though his military career gave him training and direction, it also came with great sacrifice — and has brought danger to his doorstep. Rogan has sacrificed everything for his family and after he meets Katie, the weight of those sacrifices could cause him to lose the one thing he wants more than his next breath.
“This doesn’t make you less,” I tell her softly. “It makes you more. More beautiful, more desirable. It makes you a survivor. A winner. Someone worth having.” I drop my voice into a whisper. “Someone worth loving.”
I can’t even tell you how much I loved this book, these characters — both definitely stole my heart and got me further addicted to this series. You’ll root for Rogan and Katie and want nothing more than for them to find their way through the mess and into a happily ever after. Tough Enough gives you suspense, romance, and everything in-between.
Fight to Survive. Fight to live.
Five Fierce stars for storyline and Four wet panties for smut factor. A must read series.
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
Tough Enough is the second book in the Tall, Dark, and Dangerous series by M. Leighton; it can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading Strong Enough first for a better reading experience. There are many elements to the underlying storyline that unfold throughout the series that you’d miss out on if you skipped book one.
Leighton has a truly fantastic writing style, the way she builds her stories keeps you riveted — waiting to see how her characters’ lives will unfold. Then when you realize how intricately they are connected, you are sideswiped by the pure genius of it all. From the main characters to the secondary characters you never get the sense that someone is unnecessary filler like in so many other books. Everyone serves a purpose and plays their parts to build a more dynamic tale.
Katie has lived through more trauma than any one person should ever have to survive. It is so heartbreaking to watch through her eyes how deeply those events impact her life. My heart bleeds for her. It’s impossible not to root for her — to want her to find her way and start LIVING instead of merely existing. Anyone who has ever experienced great loss or been a victim of some type of abuse will connect with her on a personal level; it gives her a face, a person to grieve with, to heal with.
“The thing is, we can still survive. Even if pieces are scarred. Or dead. Or even missing. We can still survive. We can still live.”
Rogan is also another damaged soul. He’s a survivor, but instead of letting the weight of his past crush him, he’s taken that hurt and created a life that gives him every opportunity to be a better man. Though his military career gave him training and direction, it also came with great sacrifice — and has brought danger to his doorstep. Rogan has sacrificed everything for his family and after he meets Katie, the weight of those sacrifices could cause him to lose the one thing he wants more than his next breath.
“This doesn’t make you less,” I tell her softly. “It makes you more. More beautiful, more desirable. It makes you a survivor. A winner. Someone worth having.” I drop my voice into a whisper. “Someone worth loving.”
I can’t even tell you how much I loved this book, these characters — both definitely stole my heart and got me further addicted to this series. You’ll root for Rogan and Katie and want nothing more than for them to find their way through the mess and into a happily ever after. Tough Enough gives you suspense, romance, and everything in-between.
Fight to Survive. Fight to live.
Five Fierce stars for storyline and Four wet panties for smut factor. A must read series.
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
November 3, 2015
What I love about M. Leighton book is there is always a story within a story. It's twisty, and there is no lack of a steamy romance. Romance is the heart of the story, and everything that surrounds it is what it's built on. I've learned that things aren't always what they seem, and there are bumps, some are few and far between, but in the second book in the Tall, Dark, And Dangerous Series, the road is unpaved, and there is a lot of work needed to smooth it out. Two characters broken in entirely different ways, but in need of a special kind of love to heal. It's a beautifully transcribed story that will hit you right in the heart.
We meet Katie; she's somewhat of a hermit. She doesn't trust easily, and she reads as a closed book. She went through a pretty horrific experience, that made her this way. An unfavorable ex has led her to a town where she can hide from the world. She is a talented make-up artist, and when she finds Rogan sitting in her chair, she's thrown off by his kindness. Rogan is an MMA fighter/actor filming scenes from a television show. He sees something in Katie that he's never seen in any woman before. She doesn't care for him, and he wants her to see that he isn't the conceited, womanizer she thinks she is. Her past keeps her at bay, but in the end, Rogan proves himself. He does it in such a way that you can't help but fall in love with him. The only problem, his life isn't in town, and once filming is done he's off to another city. Will these two reveal their scars fully, or will they both remain hidden from one another to avoid the pain?
This book was captivating, and at times intense. There were a few scenes that bothered me, and I couldn't quite grasp. It didn't deter me from enjoying the book, because the story was just that great. I adored the relationship between Katie, and Rogan. The mixture of MMA/ and actor had to be the best combination ever. Rogan had a lot of different facets to him, each one redeemable. Katie had a rough personality and watching her slowly transform in the story was a little inspiring.
To sum it up Katie, and Rogan were equally scarred inside and out. Their story will leave you consumed, emotional, and heartbroken. The romance will make your feel like flying, and wonder why your feet are still planted on the ground. My favorite series by M. Leighton to date.
We meet Katie; she's somewhat of a hermit. She doesn't trust easily, and she reads as a closed book. She went through a pretty horrific experience, that made her this way. An unfavorable ex has led her to a town where she can hide from the world. She is a talented make-up artist, and when she finds Rogan sitting in her chair, she's thrown off by his kindness. Rogan is an MMA fighter/actor filming scenes from a television show. He sees something in Katie that he's never seen in any woman before. She doesn't care for him, and he wants her to see that he isn't the conceited, womanizer she thinks she is. Her past keeps her at bay, but in the end, Rogan proves himself. He does it in such a way that you can't help but fall in love with him. The only problem, his life isn't in town, and once filming is done he's off to another city. Will these two reveal their scars fully, or will they both remain hidden from one another to avoid the pain?
This book was captivating, and at times intense. There were a few scenes that bothered me, and I couldn't quite grasp. It didn't deter me from enjoying the book, because the story was just that great. I adored the relationship between Katie, and Rogan. The mixture of MMA/ and actor had to be the best combination ever. Rogan had a lot of different facets to him, each one redeemable. Katie had a rough personality and watching her slowly transform in the story was a little inspiring.
To sum it up Katie, and Rogan were equally scarred inside and out. Their story will leave you consumed, emotional, and heartbroken. The romance will make your feel like flying, and wonder why your feet are still planted on the ground. My favorite series by M. Leighton to date.
December 9, 2015
M Leighton never lets me own with her books, and Tough Enough was no exception. I was really excited to jump nback into this series, as I absolutely loved book 1. This series can be read as standalones, but there is a storyline which links all the books together, plus, you'd just be missing out on great stories and hot guys if you didn't read them all!
So Tough Enough gave us the devilishly delicious Keifer Rogan, known mainly as Rogan. Man, oh man. He was ridiculously hot, as is the norm for this authors heroes. She sure does know how to write them!!! Rogan as just above and beyond fantastic, he really was. I loved everything about him, except when it came to his brother, but I'll come back to that.
Katie is our heroine in Tough Enough. Again, I really did like her. I felt for her with everything she has gone through. Though she may not see it in herself, she is one tough cookie!! I really don't think there was anything which I didn't like in Katie. She was great!!
Now back to Rogan and his brother. I didn't lke this relationship at all. I felt that Kurt treated Rogan awfully, and Rogan let him get away with it!! I understand he has his issues and his own, unimanagible personal demons, but he was just a really mean person. I only liked him when he was around Katie, where he acted like a fairly decent human being.
Other than my Kurt issue, I think the only thing which could have made this book better would be having the storyline which links the series togtether, playing a bigger part in the book. It's only very briefly mentioned at the end, and it's something I would really like to see more about. It's the perfect thing to add some suspense and itrigue.
We have Tag up next in Brave Enough, which releases April 6th, 2016, and I cannot wait!!! I'm already ready for more M Leighton. Bring it on!!!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
So Tough Enough gave us the devilishly delicious Keifer Rogan, known mainly as Rogan. Man, oh man. He was ridiculously hot, as is the norm for this authors heroes. She sure does know how to write them!!! Rogan as just above and beyond fantastic, he really was. I loved everything about him, except when it came to his brother, but I'll come back to that.
Katie is our heroine in Tough Enough. Again, I really did like her. I felt for her with everything she has gone through. Though she may not see it in herself, she is one tough cookie!! I really don't think there was anything which I didn't like in Katie. She was great!!
Now back to Rogan and his brother. I didn't lke this relationship at all. I felt that Kurt treated Rogan awfully, and Rogan let him get away with it!! I understand he has his issues and his own, unimanagible personal demons, but he was just a really mean person. I only liked him when he was around Katie, where he acted like a fairly decent human being.
Other than my Kurt issue, I think the only thing which could have made this book better would be having the storyline which links the series togtether, playing a bigger part in the book. It's only very briefly mentioned at the end, and it's something I would really like to see more about. It's the perfect thing to add some suspense and itrigue.
We have Tag up next in Brave Enough, which releases April 6th, 2016, and I cannot wait!!! I'm already ready for more M Leighton. Bring it on!!!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
September 25, 2015
Michelle has done it again!! full review to come.
November 3, 2015
Rogan + Katie.....EPIC!!!
Where to start? +M. Leighton just literally blew my mind with this story.
I loved loved loved how Rogan is a man who when he sees something he wants, he does what he has to get it. He fights, he swoons, he makes you laugh, he shows his dark side, his shows his romantic side... he is just a perfect rolled up package of AWESOMENESS!!!
Yep he is my new Book Boyfriend. Knew it as soon as M. Leighton introduced him to us in Strong Enough. I love me a cocky man who is not afraid to let you know what he wants...
Katie!
Katie is one bad ass woman! With her hidden secrets that she knows how to mask but for some reason the only person who she can't mask them from is Rogan. He knows there is more to her than what she is pretending to be and he is determined to find out.
I will never think of a Snickers Bar now without thinking of Katie and Rogan...
IS it hot in here or is it just me??? Talk about the smoking!
Rogan & Katie's chemistry is super hot, flirtatious, funny, loving, enduring.
Both of their stories will capture you, move you & make you want to find that love that just by their smile like Rogan's, they make any day a better one!
A MUST READ FOR 2015!!!
**ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
5 Cherries Popped
April 20, 2016
I thought Jasper was Da' Man from Strong Enough but Kiefer "The Rain" Rogan is something else. Rogan is ex-special forces, an actor, and an MMA fighter, is there anything this man doesn't do? Rogan has always looked out for and protected his younger brother and now he cares for him after he has been left with no use of his legs.
Kurt is a bitter person and uses his handicap to get to Rogan, and I was thrilled when Rogan finally snapped and put his brother in his place. Shit happens, and Rogan had a lot of shit happen to him so for his brother to just be bitter about everything when Rogan tried to live his life to the fullest was just wrong.
Katie went through some terribly horrific events five years earlier and it left her a changed person. She moved to Enchantment to start her life over. She leads a quite life and works at a production studio as a make-up artist, her newest client is Rogan and she automatically puts him in the same box as all the other jerks she has dealt with in her life.
Rogan is instantly drawn to Katie but she wants no part of him. I loved the way he wormed his way into getting to know her by bringing her coffee every morning when she was assigned to do his make-up for the show that he was in, and asking a ton of questions so little by little he broke down some of her fences. Katie just didn't understand why he wanted to get to know her so she fought it every step of the way.
There are some serious secrets that they are both hiding and when everything comes out it changes everything!
I am loving this series. Jasper and Muse made an appearance and Tag is the Hero of the next book Brave Enough, I have a feeling he is going to have one seriously painful story based on the glimpse we got of him in this book.
pugnare superesse proelio vivere ~ fight to survive fight to live
***I have received this book from PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW Berkley Publishing Group through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
Kurt is a bitter person and uses his handicap to get to Rogan, and I was thrilled when Rogan finally snapped and put his brother in his place. Shit happens, and Rogan had a lot of shit happen to him so for his brother to just be bitter about everything when Rogan tried to live his life to the fullest was just wrong.
Katie went through some terribly horrific events five years earlier and it left her a changed person. She moved to Enchantment to start her life over. She leads a quite life and works at a production studio as a make-up artist, her newest client is Rogan and she automatically puts him in the same box as all the other jerks she has dealt with in her life.
Rogan is instantly drawn to Katie but she wants no part of him. I loved the way he wormed his way into getting to know her by bringing her coffee every morning when she was assigned to do his make-up for the show that he was in, and asking a ton of questions so little by little he broke down some of her fences. Katie just didn't understand why he wanted to get to know her so she fought it every step of the way.
There are some serious secrets that they are both hiding and when everything comes out it changes everything!
I am loving this series. Jasper and Muse made an appearance and Tag is the Hero of the next book Brave Enough, I have a feeling he is going to have one seriously painful story based on the glimpse we got of him in this book.
pugnare superesse proelio vivere ~ fight to survive fight to live
***I have received this book from PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW Berkley Publishing Group through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
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