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McKenzie Ridge #1
Rescued
It isn’t just love on the line, it’s lives too…
Dawson and Sam agree on one thing...relationships are more work than they’re worth. But in their darkest hour they couldn’t deny their attraction to each other and now that he's in her life, he'll do whatever he can to stay there.
Dawson can’t shake the feeling that they are being watched and soon learns their small town has a fatal secret when it becomes clear Sam’s car crash was no accident — someone is trying to kill her…
He’s in a race against time to protect her from a stalker determined to finish their task. They won’t need to look far to find what they’re searching for as they walk right into the cross fires of a crime that’s anything but random and brings their community to its knees.
Secrets and lies are revealed when tragedy strikes putting everything on the line, including lives, as a deranged criminal hides in plain sight.
Love, fear, and impossible choices have him charging to her rescue, but will it be in time…
Dawson and Sam agree on one thing...relationships are more work than they’re worth. But in their darkest hour they couldn’t deny their attraction to each other and now that he's in her life, he'll do whatever he can to stay there.
Dawson can’t shake the feeling that they are being watched and soon learns their small town has a fatal secret when it becomes clear Sam’s car crash was no accident — someone is trying to kill her…
He’s in a race against time to protect her from a stalker determined to finish their task. They won’t need to look far to find what they’re searching for as they walk right into the cross fires of a crime that’s anything but random and brings their community to its knees.
Secrets and lies are revealed when tragedy strikes putting everything on the line, including lives, as a deranged criminal hides in plain sight.
Love, fear, and impossible choices have him charging to her rescue, but will it be in time…
267 pages, ebook
First published March 15, 2016
2907 people are currently reading
1318 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie St. Klaire
51 books940 followersAbout Stephanie St. Klaire
USA Today Best-Selling Author Stephanie St. Klaire is multifaceted romance writer that has found her calling making readers bite their nails in suspense and hang on the edge of their seats with baited breath, as they wait for the next startling mystery to be unveiled.
Whether she’s off the grid hunting her diabolical killer’s next victim or plotting gritty crime thrillers that will leave you questioning her sanity, she always brings the chaos and the heat. (Watch yourself or you just might end up a character in one of her stories!)
Equal parts Hallmark and Criminal Minds, SSK balances her dark side by writing rom-com as her alter ego Stephie Klaire.
The Pacific Northwest native currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband, five children, and two ferocious lap dogs— where every day is Taco Tuesday and Christmas isn’t just a season... it’s a state of mind.
Follow Stephanie St. Klaire on Social media to learn more about her, and to keep up with her work.
Website: www.stephaniestklaire.com
Newsletter: www.stephaniestklaire.com/newsletter
Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2l27QeK
Facebook profile: http://bit.ly/2kdNBa1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephStKlaire
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lxwtgn
BookBub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2kuPnV5
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1UccbW6
USA Today Best-Selling Author Stephanie St. Klaire is multifaceted romance writer that has found her calling making readers bite their nails in suspense and hang on the edge of their seats with baited breath, as they wait for the next startling mystery to be unveiled.
Whether she’s off the grid hunting her diabolical killer’s next victim or plotting gritty crime thrillers that will leave you questioning her sanity, she always brings the chaos and the heat. (Watch yourself or you just might end up a character in one of her stories!)
Equal parts Hallmark and Criminal Minds, SSK balances her dark side by writing rom-com as her alter ego Stephie Klaire.
The Pacific Northwest native currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband, five children, and two ferocious lap dogs— where every day is Taco Tuesday and Christmas isn’t just a season... it’s a state of mind.
Follow Stephanie St. Klaire on Social media to learn more about her, and to keep up with her work.
Website: www.stephaniestklaire.com
Newsletter: www.stephaniestklaire.com/newsletter
Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2l27QeK
Facebook profile: http://bit.ly/2kdNBa1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephStKlaire
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lxwtgn
BookBub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2kuPnV5
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1UccbW6
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
April 24, 2016
***I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.***
Set in the picturesque, small Oregon mountain town of McKenzie Ridge, you'll be plunged into action within minutes of starting this novel. The following chapters fill us in on how hot, independent nurse Sam Taylor and panty-melting EMT Dawson Tayler came to be. From her determined past and his haunted past shaping them into who they are, to their inevitable hookup. How they fall in love. Their steamy romps. And a plot twist you won't want to miss!
I do have a few things that bothered me that affected my overall evaluation of the book, but they are nit-picky things and may not bother other readers at all:
1) I just felt there was a bit of redundancy to the telling of the story itself, and wish it had been just a tad faster-paced, more developed as well as structured a bit better.
2) This novel takes place in a setting where there are a LOT of characters involved; characters who, except for the very lead characters, all go by their last names. The transition from reading about these characters using their last names, then in some instances reading about them using their first names is a bit confusing - but this seems to straighten itself out as the story progresses.
3) I found it a bit jarring due to what seems to be excessive use of commas, and almost wish I could have gotten to read this during the editing stages. All it needs is just a teensy bit of polishing up.
Overall, I found this a very detailed novel with characters I feel readers will readily identify with and come to love (Hello, I want a Dawson of my very own!). The story is intriguing, and I think many readers will find it hard to put the book down. This is fortunate, because the length is perfect for diving into and making an afternoon of it! And that is exactly what I plan to do with future McKenzie Ridge novels.
If you love hot romance set amid action and intrigue, you definitely shouldn't pass this novel up!
Set in the picturesque, small Oregon mountain town of McKenzie Ridge, you'll be plunged into action within minutes of starting this novel. The following chapters fill us in on how hot, independent nurse Sam Taylor and panty-melting EMT Dawson Tayler came to be. From her determined past and his haunted past shaping them into who they are, to their inevitable hookup. How they fall in love. Their steamy romps. And a plot twist you won't want to miss!
I do have a few things that bothered me that affected my overall evaluation of the book, but they are nit-picky things and may not bother other readers at all:
1) I just felt there was a bit of redundancy to the telling of the story itself, and wish it had been just a tad faster-paced, more developed as well as structured a bit better.
2) This novel takes place in a setting where there are a LOT of characters involved; characters who, except for the very lead characters, all go by their last names. The transition from reading about these characters using their last names, then in some instances reading about them using their first names is a bit confusing - but this seems to straighten itself out as the story progresses.
3) I found it a bit jarring due to what seems to be excessive use of commas, and almost wish I could have gotten to read this during the editing stages. All it needs is just a teensy bit of polishing up.
Overall, I found this a very detailed novel with characters I feel readers will readily identify with and come to love (Hello, I want a Dawson of my very own!). The story is intriguing, and I think many readers will find it hard to put the book down. This is fortunate, because the length is perfect for diving into and making an afternoon of it! And that is exactly what I plan to do with future McKenzie Ridge novels.
If you love hot romance set amid action and intrigue, you definitely shouldn't pass this novel up!
April 10, 2016
Wow! What a first novel from Stephanie St. Klaire! From the opening word, you are drawn into the story & kept enthralled through to the end. The plot line moves at a perfect pace while enabling the background story to be revealed. The characters are realistic & lovable. The main characters, Dawson & Sam, have their own histories that they have to try to overcome if they want to be together. The details add so much to the story by enabling you to fix a picture in your mind of what the scene is.
Stephanie has a fresh & appealing writing style. She mixes humor, romance, & mystery together to tell a terrific story. I can't wait for the next in the series & whatever else she produces. If you like your romance mixed in with danger & a HEA, you can't miss with this book!
Stephanie has a fresh & appealing writing style. She mixes humor, romance, & mystery together to tell a terrific story. I can't wait for the next in the series & whatever else she produces. If you like your romance mixed in with danger & a HEA, you can't miss with this book!
March 14, 2016
I write this review with my blood pressure still elevated from the white-knuckle climax that Stephanie St. Klaire smoothly dragged my heart into. "Rescued" pulled me in so much that I read it in 2 days, unable to put it down.
Really quick synopsis since you can read that elsewhere: Nurse and EMT who both like to be independent, but are tempted by each other's company, to the amusement of their friends, though this becomes side drama with the mysterious 'accidents' happening in the small, rustic mountain town.
The writing was very clear and made it easy to slip into McKenzie Ridge. The plot enthralled with the romance, twists, and witty banter. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters who all had such strong, believable personalities, with depths and emotions that got me invested in their lives the more I read. Speaking of which, oh-my-stars the steamy scenes! I literally turned my A/C on for chapter 5. That Dawson is a sexy, sexy EMT. But my favorite is little Ellie Lou and her child-like spunk; she provided a laugh-out-loud relief to the rising tension as the mystery in the little town and danger to Nurse Sam's life escalated.
If you like romantic mysteries, like those of Julie Garwood, Elizabeth Lowell or Jennifer Crusie, then you'll love this one. Honestly it's up there on my list and I find it shocking this is the author's debut novel. The only thing I noticed to indicate her newness was a slight lenience towards explaining rather than using the 'show don't tell' mantra at the beginning to introduce us to the location and main characters Sam Taylor and Dawson Tayler. But beyond that short bit? A fantastic book! I eagerly await book 2.
Really quick synopsis since you can read that elsewhere: Nurse and EMT who both like to be independent, but are tempted by each other's company, to the amusement of their friends, though this becomes side drama with the mysterious 'accidents' happening in the small, rustic mountain town.
The writing was very clear and made it easy to slip into McKenzie Ridge. The plot enthralled with the romance, twists, and witty banter. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters who all had such strong, believable personalities, with depths and emotions that got me invested in their lives the more I read. Speaking of which, oh-my-stars the steamy scenes! I literally turned my A/C on for chapter 5. That Dawson is a sexy, sexy EMT. But my favorite is little Ellie Lou and her child-like spunk; she provided a laugh-out-loud relief to the rising tension as the mystery in the little town and danger to Nurse Sam's life escalated.
If you like romantic mysteries, like those of Julie Garwood, Elizabeth Lowell or Jennifer Crusie, then you'll love this one. Honestly it's up there on my list and I find it shocking this is the author's debut novel. The only thing I noticed to indicate her newness was a slight lenience towards explaining rather than using the 'show don't tell' mantra at the beginning to introduce us to the location and main characters Sam Taylor and Dawson Tayler. But beyond that short bit? A fantastic book! I eagerly await book 2.
July 12, 2016
I have to admit I was very impressed with this debut novel by Stephanie St. Klaire. It captured me in chapter one and kept me hostage until the very end.
McKenzie Ridge is a small Oregon town where everybody knows you and feels comfortable being in your business! Dawson and Sam are two kindred souls… both with wounded pasts and who have obvious sexual chemistry. They do a great job denying their attraction… until they start have breakfast “non-dates” at the local coffee shop and realize that they really do like each other.
This is a well written romantic mystery… there are strange “accidents” occurring around town which seem incidental until Sam becomes a victim. Much of the story line occurs while Sam is in a coma and Dawson is in for a few surprises. A little munchkin named Elliott steals the scene in several places and Dawson’s heart as well. After all Taylors/Taylers have to stick together!! The suspense builds and the climax is handled very well. Kudos to Stephanie for the build-up and for not letting us down!
I enjoyed the suspense and definitely the romance and am looking forward to reading more in this series.
McKenzie Ridge is a small Oregon town where everybody knows you and feels comfortable being in your business! Dawson and Sam are two kindred souls… both with wounded pasts and who have obvious sexual chemistry. They do a great job denying their attraction… until they start have breakfast “non-dates” at the local coffee shop and realize that they really do like each other.
This is a well written romantic mystery… there are strange “accidents” occurring around town which seem incidental until Sam becomes a victim. Much of the story line occurs while Sam is in a coma and Dawson is in for a few surprises. A little munchkin named Elliott steals the scene in several places and Dawson’s heart as well. After all Taylors/Taylers have to stick together!! The suspense builds and the climax is handled very well. Kudos to Stephanie for the build-up and for not letting us down!
I enjoyed the suspense and definitely the romance and am looking forward to reading more in this series.
August 15, 2016
this novel is based off of the steamy romance of Tayler and Taylor. lol (you'd have to read the book to get it.) It's told at a slower pace than I liked. However it adds to the ever building tension between Dawson and Sam.
The pace also allowed readers to identify with the characters and even some of the supporting roles. Making you wonder if they will have their own books.
I think that my only bad thing about this book is that it need a bit of polishing up the excessive comma's made it halting and hard to read at time.... All in all THIS WAS AN AMAZING DEBUT NOVEL from this author!I definitely look forward to reading more from this author and I'd give you more stars because there was no freaking insta love!!! Commendable!!! (p.s. I really don't like insta love. Please don't write any books with it. lol)
The pace also allowed readers to identify with the characters and even some of the supporting roles. Making you wonder if they will have their own books.
I think that my only bad thing about this book is that it need a bit of polishing up the excessive comma's made it halting and hard to read at time.... All in all THIS WAS AN AMAZING DEBUT NOVEL from this author!I definitely look forward to reading more from this author and I'd give you more stars because there was no freaking insta love!!! Commendable!!! (p.s. I really don't like insta love. Please don't write any books with it. lol)
May 5, 2016
Good storyline with two nicely developed characters both employed in the emergency medical field. Minimum angst and a captivating romance. A little difficult navigating through the POV changes at times.
July 7, 2016
BOOK REVIEW: Rescued
BOOK SERIES: A McKenzie Ridge Novel #1
AUTHOR: Stephanie St. Klaire
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: March 15, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
4 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
Just as the walls start to come down, boundaries redefined, and things heat up, tragedy hits the small mountain town of McKenzie Ridge.
Sexy EMT Dawson Tayler made hearts break, and panties melt with a single look. Far from home, in the charming tourist town, he lives a simple life his family would be appalled by – if they were alive. Dawson suddenly finds his satisfying life, emotionless as it was, changing the night he nearly loses her.
The storming ball of fire, that is Nurse Sam Taylor, defined the word fighter. At five feet and a handful of inches, beautiful Sam was kind, giving, and a complete hard ass. Abandonment was a lesson Sam learned early on, leaving her with a hardened heart as a result. Men were as necessary as a hang nail and weren’t part of her plan, until him.
After months of shameless flirting, and generating steam everyone in their circle could see but them, the unlikely couple agreed to a friend’s only breakfast that turned into every morning – for weeks. Committed to the single life, this was not a relationship, and they definitely were not dating.
Does Dawson’s past and present collide and ruin what they have built? Will her secret be the deal breaker that ends this affair, before it even begins? Their steamy romance rushes through suspenseful twists, turns, and malice. Will Dawson and Sam find a happily ever after, or, is there someone else lurking in McKenzie Ridge trying to destroy it all?
MY THOUGHTS:
Wow! I was surprised that this was a debut novel by this author! I can honestly say that I was hooked from the beginning.
This book is a slow and steady burn. The characters are well developed and the supporting cast is also well developed. There is also some time change chapters between past and present, which I really like. I can see future books being written from the close group of friends from the hospital and the House, the facility that houses the fire department, police and EMT’s. Where can you go with wrong with sexy firemen, policemen and EMT’s?
Dawson
Dawson and Sam both had relationship issues and didn’t want commitment, but there was something there that they couldn’t deny. They were beginning to really get to know each other after weeks of flirting and breakfast non-dates. The chemistry between these two is out of bounds! They finally are actually trying to give the relationship a try when tragedy strikes!
Sam
Sam is in a car accident. Dawson is part of the emergency crew on the scene and his heart drops. He was starting to have real feelings for Sam. This couldn’t be happening. He was finally given a chance to date this beautiful woman. She is taken to the hospital and is in a coma with multiple serious life-threatening injuries. Then Dawson is given a huge shock that he didn’t see coming. Sam was always private and didn’t reveal much about her life. But he didn’t expect her to have a 4-year-old daughter, Elliot Louise Taylor or Ellie Lou as she was known as.
Ellie
Sam’s family is a mess. Her father left when Sam was a baby and her mother went from man to man and didn’t want Sam. She had a best friend Evie, and her grandmother Louise took care of Sam when her mother left her. So Evie was her best friend and surrogate sister and Lou her grandmother. Ellie’s father bailed when she told him she was pregnant. She was done with men and relationships.
Dawson lost his affluent family in a plane crash 10 years ago. He didn’t fit in with his father’s plan to take over the family business. He feels guilty for not being on that plane that day and vowed he wouldn’t get close to anyone again. He had plenty of women that wanted him, but he wanted no attachments or commitment. Until Sam.
There is also twists of mystery and suspense to keep you at the edge of your seat, as it seems that Sam’s accident was possibly not an accident after all. There are multiple mysterious things that are happening to Sam, and it has the close group of friends in McKenzie Ridge working hard to figure out if they are related to Sam’s accident.
I won’t give you anymore because you need to read this sexy sweet heat, slow burn novel! The only issue I had with the book is that it was a little redundant in places, but overall, it was a great debut novel by a new up and coming author!
ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
BOOK SERIES: A McKenzie Ridge Novel #1
AUTHOR: Stephanie St. Klaire
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: March 15, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No
4 Stars
SYNOPSIS:
Just as the walls start to come down, boundaries redefined, and things heat up, tragedy hits the small mountain town of McKenzie Ridge.
Sexy EMT Dawson Tayler made hearts break, and panties melt with a single look. Far from home, in the charming tourist town, he lives a simple life his family would be appalled by – if they were alive. Dawson suddenly finds his satisfying life, emotionless as it was, changing the night he nearly loses her.
The storming ball of fire, that is Nurse Sam Taylor, defined the word fighter. At five feet and a handful of inches, beautiful Sam was kind, giving, and a complete hard ass. Abandonment was a lesson Sam learned early on, leaving her with a hardened heart as a result. Men were as necessary as a hang nail and weren’t part of her plan, until him.
After months of shameless flirting, and generating steam everyone in their circle could see but them, the unlikely couple agreed to a friend’s only breakfast that turned into every morning – for weeks. Committed to the single life, this was not a relationship, and they definitely were not dating.
Does Dawson’s past and present collide and ruin what they have built? Will her secret be the deal breaker that ends this affair, before it even begins? Their steamy romance rushes through suspenseful twists, turns, and malice. Will Dawson and Sam find a happily ever after, or, is there someone else lurking in McKenzie Ridge trying to destroy it all?
MY THOUGHTS:
Wow! I was surprised that this was a debut novel by this author! I can honestly say that I was hooked from the beginning.
This book is a slow and steady burn. The characters are well developed and the supporting cast is also well developed. There is also some time change chapters between past and present, which I really like. I can see future books being written from the close group of friends from the hospital and the House, the facility that houses the fire department, police and EMT’s. Where can you go with wrong with sexy firemen, policemen and EMT’s?
Dawson
Dawson and Sam both had relationship issues and didn’t want commitment, but there was something there that they couldn’t deny. They were beginning to really get to know each other after weeks of flirting and breakfast non-dates. The chemistry between these two is out of bounds! They finally are actually trying to give the relationship a try when tragedy strikes!
Sam
Sam is in a car accident. Dawson is part of the emergency crew on the scene and his heart drops. He was starting to have real feelings for Sam. This couldn’t be happening. He was finally given a chance to date this beautiful woman. She is taken to the hospital and is in a coma with multiple serious life-threatening injuries. Then Dawson is given a huge shock that he didn’t see coming. Sam was always private and didn’t reveal much about her life. But he didn’t expect her to have a 4-year-old daughter, Elliot Louise Taylor or Ellie Lou as she was known as.
Ellie
Sam’s family is a mess. Her father left when Sam was a baby and her mother went from man to man and didn’t want Sam. She had a best friend Evie, and her grandmother Louise took care of Sam when her mother left her. So Evie was her best friend and surrogate sister and Lou her grandmother. Ellie’s father bailed when she told him she was pregnant. She was done with men and relationships.
Dawson lost his affluent family in a plane crash 10 years ago. He didn’t fit in with his father’s plan to take over the family business. He feels guilty for not being on that plane that day and vowed he wouldn’t get close to anyone again. He had plenty of women that wanted him, but he wanted no attachments or commitment. Until Sam.
There is also twists of mystery and suspense to keep you at the edge of your seat, as it seems that Sam’s accident was possibly not an accident after all. There are multiple mysterious things that are happening to Sam, and it has the close group of friends in McKenzie Ridge working hard to figure out if they are related to Sam’s accident.
I won’t give you anymore because you need to read this sexy sweet heat, slow burn novel! The only issue I had with the book is that it was a little redundant in places, but overall, it was a great debut novel by a new up and coming author!
ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
March 17, 2016
When I first read the synopsis of Rescued I was on board. What is better than a smexy EMT, a feisty nurse, both battling their past demons to find happiness in the present? Immediately brought me back to my days of loving Grey’s Anatomy except even better. There was so much to love about this novel, and knowing it was the debut for Stephanie St. Klaire leads me to give even more praise, but I will do what I can to keep this shorter than a novel, that way you can get to clicking buy and reading the book even faster.
First off the writing is beautiful, the story was flawless and flowed effortlessly. There was not a time that I set the book down because I wanted it too. It was mainly because it was after midnight and I felt my eyes closing without permission. And even then I would just do a shake and continue on until I woke the next morning still holding my phone because I fell asleep reading. I just could not put it down and it took just straight up passing out to make me put it down.
Each twist and turn of the story left me baffled and doing everything I could to come up with the answers they were all so desperately searching more themselves. Rescued holds just the right amount of drama, love, family, lost, angst, and mystery to leave me complete as a reader. The story was written to tie everything up in a nice neat bow so that the reader would not have to continue with the series, or could pick up a future novel in the series and start there. However, I recommend reading Rescued now to be ready for the rest of the series that is to come. Plus if you are like me you hate cliff hangers, I want the ending and can’t stand when I am forced to wait for it.
My only complaint after reading this book is that I wanted more. St. Klaire wove a tail that was so intriguing and addictive as a reader I wanted more. I needed more about these characters as well as the supporting characters that surrounded the main couple. She fed me just enough about all of them that left me starving for more from this series.
I truly believe that what we can expect to come from this author is just improvement. This is one author to keep your eye on for sure. I for one, am very much looking forward to the continuation of this series as well as what might be gifted to us from her talented mind. A MUST read for anyone who likes their romances to be sweet and sexy with a twist of danger.
-Mackenzie
First off the writing is beautiful, the story was flawless and flowed effortlessly. There was not a time that I set the book down because I wanted it too. It was mainly because it was after midnight and I felt my eyes closing without permission. And even then I would just do a shake and continue on until I woke the next morning still holding my phone because I fell asleep reading. I just could not put it down and it took just straight up passing out to make me put it down.
Each twist and turn of the story left me baffled and doing everything I could to come up with the answers they were all so desperately searching more themselves. Rescued holds just the right amount of drama, love, family, lost, angst, and mystery to leave me complete as a reader. The story was written to tie everything up in a nice neat bow so that the reader would not have to continue with the series, or could pick up a future novel in the series and start there. However, I recommend reading Rescued now to be ready for the rest of the series that is to come. Plus if you are like me you hate cliff hangers, I want the ending and can’t stand when I am forced to wait for it.
My only complaint after reading this book is that I wanted more. St. Klaire wove a tail that was so intriguing and addictive as a reader I wanted more. I needed more about these characters as well as the supporting characters that surrounded the main couple. She fed me just enough about all of them that left me starving for more from this series.
I truly believe that what we can expect to come from this author is just improvement. This is one author to keep your eye on for sure. I for one, am very much looking forward to the continuation of this series as well as what might be gifted to us from her talented mind. A MUST read for anyone who likes their romances to be sweet and sexy with a twist of danger.
-Mackenzie
March 29, 2016
I received this free book in exchange for an honest review.
5 Debut Stars!
It’s hard to believe this is Stephanie St. Klaire’s debut novel! She totally knocked this out of the park and it’s still going!
Dawson, the sexy EMT, and Sam, the gorgeous nurse, neither of them do the “dating thing”. Dawson finally gets Sam to agree to a non-date, breakfast date, that turns into an everyday occasion for weeks. It’s refreshing to see how she has their relationship grow over a period of time to a point where they have to admit to themselves that they are in a relationship. Then of course, tragedy strikes and puts it to a test.
I just really loved everything about this book. The main characters are strong and their chemistry is smoking hot! Even the supporting characters are fabulous and I can’t wait for them to get their own books as well. The fun, flirty and witty banter between all the “gang” will leave you wanting these kind of people in your life. If you love a great romance with a little mystery mixed in, a welcome surprise, and a huge plot twist, then you will LOVE this debut novel!
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
June 21, 2016
3.5 stars!
Not going to lie I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Not only did it have romance and suspense it had a plot twist I so didn’t see coming. I always enjoy getting ARC’s especially from new authors. This is a brand new author this book is her debut book, and I say well done.
It took me a little bit to get used to her writing style which is normal with every new author I try. Stephanie St. Klaire is a very vivid writer she describes things in so much detail. There was no doubt in my mind what was going on or what a scene was to look like.
Onto the characters…oh Sam… *sigh* this is a lady with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Having to ignore Dawson was probably such a heavy weight to carry. Her family then her job seemed to be her motto. She doesn’t have time to date or for entanglements. Sam has known Dawson for a while and while she pretends she is not interested he decides to test the limits and see if this attraction goes both ways. However there are secrets between them that might not lead to a happy ending.
Dawson… *double sigh* yup.. he’s just a wildly attractive man that save lives for a living while being nice to children and old people. Okay, okay he’s more than that but honestly he was a great character. I loved how he actually took the time to know Sam instead of the insta-love that sometimes happens in romance novels. I love how he stuck to his gut throughout the whole book with all of the craziness going on. He knew what he wanted throughout the whole book an didn’t waiver at all.
Like I said there were some plot twists in here that I didn’t see coming. The one that I missed until it literally showed up in all its shining glory was close to the beginning chapter 7 I believe? Either way this character who becomes known should probably have their own book just saying! ;) I’m excited to see what Stephanie St. Klaire has up her sleeve for the next book especially since there was a teaser in the copy I read!
Not going to lie I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Not only did it have romance and suspense it had a plot twist I so didn’t see coming. I always enjoy getting ARC’s especially from new authors. This is a brand new author this book is her debut book, and I say well done.
It took me a little bit to get used to her writing style which is normal with every new author I try. Stephanie St. Klaire is a very vivid writer she describes things in so much detail. There was no doubt in my mind what was going on or what a scene was to look like.
Onto the characters…oh Sam… *sigh* this is a lady with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Having to ignore Dawson was probably such a heavy weight to carry. Her family then her job seemed to be her motto. She doesn’t have time to date or for entanglements. Sam has known Dawson for a while and while she pretends she is not interested he decides to test the limits and see if this attraction goes both ways. However there are secrets between them that might not lead to a happy ending.
Dawson… *double sigh* yup.. he’s just a wildly attractive man that save lives for a living while being nice to children and old people. Okay, okay he’s more than that but honestly he was a great character. I loved how he actually took the time to know Sam instead of the insta-love that sometimes happens in romance novels. I love how he stuck to his gut throughout the whole book with all of the craziness going on. He knew what he wanted throughout the whole book an didn’t waiver at all.
Like I said there were some plot twists in here that I didn’t see coming. The one that I missed until it literally showed up in all its shining glory was close to the beginning chapter 7 I believe? Either way this character who becomes known should probably have their own book just saying! ;) I’m excited to see what Stephanie St. Klaire has up her sleeve for the next book especially since there was a teaser in the copy I read!
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July 13, 2016
“Men were a liability, they weren’t reliable, good for only a quick romp, some quicker than others, and no guarantee for a happy ending.”
Sam is an independent, ER nurse. Focused on her job, and inherently good at it, Sam doesn’t have time for dating or relationships, especially one with a co-worker. Even if this co-worker is 6-feet tall and a body full of chiseled muscles. Dawson, an EMT, is also not a fan of relationships, and proves this by making his way through the female population at an alarming rate.
Sam and Dawson get to know each other through work, both saving lives, but not without noticing each other in the process. They strike up a friendship, but when Dawson finally asks Sam out, she reminds him that she doesn’t date, especially co-workers.
Fortunately, Dawson breaks through some of her arguments and gets her to agree to casually meeting as friends. When these meetings become routine, both Sam and Dawson begin to recognize that something is growing between them, something just a bit more than friendship.
This story was nothing like what I anticipated going into it. There was so much I enjoyed! The characters in this story are amazing! Interesting characters are always what draw me in and each of these characters has a unique personality. Throughout the whole story, I found myself becoming so invested in the characters, it was like I knew them! I’m so excited to be hearing more from them, and cannot wait for the next novel, *wink, wink.*
When faced with an unlikely tragedy, and an even more unlikely foe, Dawson and Sam must rely on each other in a way they never thought they would. This event causes them to truly understand what is important in life, reveals a few secrets, and forces them to make the choice whether to acknowledge their true feelings.
This is a brand new author for me, and if this book is any indication, the following books in the series are going to be great. Offering some action, mystery, love, and an unbelievable bank of characters, the McKenzie Ridge series is going to be a must read!
June 9, 2016
Free copy for honest review.
Wow what a roller coaster of a story, not just in the story it self but the emotions I felt while reading it. Highs, lows, twists and turns. At the start its an hold your breath, omg moment, the descriptions of the accident, car and the state of Sam are so good I could see it in my head. The fear the friends had rescuing her of whether they could get her out and to hospital alive felt very real, the worry of her family and the love everyone had for her I was with them. All this was before the first chapter had even started, going on through the book Sam and Dawson having their mornings I sensed there was a lot in each of their backgrounds that made them as cautious as they were. Both had deep sadness and a reluctance to let their hearts go, to trust. Suspense, fear, threats and just at first not even knowing if there was anything real in the need for those feelings. The love, caring and deep need to protect is strong. Little Ellie provides the lighter side of the story, the laughter and her "favourites" bring some relief to all the tension and upheaval. I loved everything about this story, it had a bit of all I need to enjoy love, romance, laughter. Fear, suspense and a bit of mystery, all the ups and downs, nothing to get bored with. A nice steady pace throughout, even while Sam is in hospital there is something going on all the time. Dawson for all his apparent arrogance and ego is really just a man looking for family and love, ok he could be a bit alpha but I loved that as well. Sam, well Ellie is the most important person in her life with Lou and Evie following closely behind. She has no reason to trust after being abandoned by her parents, but deep down she wants more. She is strong, independent as much as she can be but also knows and accepts help when she needs it making her just a bit vulnerable. A fantastic read and completely recommended.
Wow what a roller coaster of a story, not just in the story it self but the emotions I felt while reading it. Highs, lows, twists and turns. At the start its an hold your breath, omg moment, the descriptions of the accident, car and the state of Sam are so good I could see it in my head. The fear the friends had rescuing her of whether they could get her out and to hospital alive felt very real, the worry of her family and the love everyone had for her I was with them. All this was before the first chapter had even started, going on through the book Sam and Dawson having their mornings I sensed there was a lot in each of their backgrounds that made them as cautious as they were. Both had deep sadness and a reluctance to let their hearts go, to trust. Suspense, fear, threats and just at first not even knowing if there was anything real in the need for those feelings. The love, caring and deep need to protect is strong. Little Ellie provides the lighter side of the story, the laughter and her "favourites" bring some relief to all the tension and upheaval. I loved everything about this story, it had a bit of all I need to enjoy love, romance, laughter. Fear, suspense and a bit of mystery, all the ups and downs, nothing to get bored with. A nice steady pace throughout, even while Sam is in hospital there is something going on all the time. Dawson for all his apparent arrogance and ego is really just a man looking for family and love, ok he could be a bit alpha but I loved that as well. Sam, well Ellie is the most important person in her life with Lou and Evie following closely behind. She has no reason to trust after being abandoned by her parents, but deep down she wants more. She is strong, independent as much as she can be but also knows and accepts help when she needs it making her just a bit vulnerable. A fantastic read and completely recommended.
March 29, 2016
I received this free book in exchange for an honest review.
5 Debut Stars!
It’s hard to believe this is Stephanie St. Klaire’s debut novel! She totally knocked this out of the park and it’s still going!
Dawson, the sexy EMT, and Sam, the gorgeous nurse, neither of them do the “dating thing”. Dawson finally gets Sam to agree to a non-date, breakfast date, that turns into an everyday occasion for weeks. It’s refreshing to see how she has their relationship grow over a period of time to a point where they have to admit to themselves that they are in a relationship. Then of course, tragedy strikes and puts it to a test.
I just really loved everything about this book. The main characters are strong and their chemistry is smoking hot! Even the supporting characters are fabulous and I can’t wait for them to get their own books as well. The fun, flirty and witty banter between all the “gang” will leave you wanting these kind of people in your life. If you love a great romance with a little mystery mixed in, a welcome surprise, and a huge plot twist, then you will LOVE this debut novel!
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
April 13, 2016
Stephanie St. Klaire has written a fantastic start to a new series with Rescued. It is a part of her McKenzie Ridge series. It tells a complete story. From start to finish I was drawn in and could not put this book down. There were many twists and turns making it nearly impossible to stop reading. I just had to know what would happen next.
EMT Dawson Tayler has a satisfying life. He is single and enjoys the perks of not being tied down, that is until he realizes there is something to the feisty Nurse Sam Tylor. She too insists she "doesn't date." Suddenly they find themselves with a standing "friends only" breakfast. After weeks of this continuing this charade, they finally go one one unforgettable date.
Tragic circumstances nearly take Sam away and Dawson is unprepared for the secret Sam has been hiding. Will he they be able to overcoming their obstacles?
I am looking forward to reading more from this talented author. I can't wait to see what will happen next!
EMT Dawson Tayler has a satisfying life. He is single and enjoys the perks of not being tied down, that is until he realizes there is something to the feisty Nurse Sam Tylor. She too insists she "doesn't date." Suddenly they find themselves with a standing "friends only" breakfast. After weeks of this continuing this charade, they finally go one one unforgettable date.
Tragic circumstances nearly take Sam away and Dawson is unprepared for the secret Sam has been hiding. Will he they be able to overcoming their obstacles?
I am looking forward to reading more from this talented author. I can't wait to see what will happen next!
April 26, 2016
This was a very sweet book about two people with baggage and trouble opening up, finding their way to each other. The book starts where the female protagonist, Sam, is in a horrible accident that leads to multiple injuries as well as her coma state. Then the book goes back 6 weeks where we find the very new relationship between Sam and Dawson forming, and taking a serious direction the night before the car accident. Now Dawson is in the hospital and finds out that Sam has been hiding something from him.
I felt at times in the first 1/2 of the book that the thoughts and doubts that Sam and Dawson had about moving forward were a little repetitive. Later, the suspense, twists and turns kept my interest while Sam and Dawson were a united front. My favorite character by far in this story was Ellie.
I felt at times in the first 1/2 of the book that the thoughts and doubts that Sam and Dawson had about moving forward were a little repetitive. Later, the suspense, twists and turns kept my interest while Sam and Dawson were a united front. My favorite character by far in this story was Ellie.
March 16, 2016
***Received ARC for honest review***
The first book by a debut author, Stephanie St. Klaire delivers a romance worth fighting for.
Sam guards her heart not only for her, but her 4 year old daughter, too.
Dawson is quickly captivated by Sam and her snark.
With each having their own dilemma they need to overcome, they realize the best way to heal is with each other.
While there was a good plot and storyline, I was confused at times as to who was narrating. The POV was everywhere: jumping from one character to the next, then back again. There were also a lot of scene shifts in one chapter. I didn't, and still don't, understand why there were that many. Especially when the POV goes back to the previous person that it was changed from. I had a few eye roll moments as well as laughs.
The first book by a debut author, Stephanie St. Klaire delivers a romance worth fighting for.
Sam guards her heart not only for her, but her 4 year old daughter, too.
Dawson is quickly captivated by Sam and her snark.
With each having their own dilemma they need to overcome, they realize the best way to heal is with each other.
While there was a good plot and storyline, I was confused at times as to who was narrating. The POV was everywhere: jumping from one character to the next, then back again. There were also a lot of scene shifts in one chapter. I didn't, and still don't, understand why there were that many. Especially when the POV goes back to the previous person that it was changed from. I had a few eye roll moments as well as laughs.
March 17, 2016
I received an Arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first in a series as well as the first book by this author.
It was a well written book about a small town called McKenzie Ridge this story is revolves around Sam and Dawson two people who do not want to be in a relationship for different reasons. Their guards are up and the secrets are held tight.
There is suspense, love, and a bond between friends. You will be on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens. You will love every minute of the story.
This is the first in a series as well as the first book by this author.
It was a well written book about a small town called McKenzie Ridge this story is revolves around Sam and Dawson two people who do not want to be in a relationship for different reasons. Their guards are up and the secrets are held tight.
There is suspense, love, and a bond between friends. You will be on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens. You will love every minute of the story.
April 20, 2016
Just finished Sam and Dawson's story by debut author Stephanie St Klaire and really I am so happy that Stephanie has finished her first amazing romance it was so worth the read.
A romance yes a steamy, sexy romance yes yes, what your not expecting when you start the book is the slow burning mystery, with thrills, spills and a very surprising very disturbed person who fooled everyone.
When I started the book I was immediately hooked it was fasted paced, engaging and gripping with every page, I was so focused on the steamy romance I nearly missed the little clues that this book was so much more than a romance and this just made the book even better because I wasn't expecting a mystery and wow what a mystery it was and I really loved the ending.
A romance yes a steamy, sexy romance yes yes, what your not expecting when you start the book is the slow burning mystery, with thrills, spills and a very surprising very disturbed person who fooled everyone.
When I started the book I was immediately hooked it was fasted paced, engaging and gripping with every page, I was so focused on the steamy romance I nearly missed the little clues that this book was so much more than a romance and this just made the book even better because I wasn't expecting a mystery and wow what a mystery it was and I really loved the ending.
April 15, 2016
This debut novel has romance, steamy scenes, twists, action, suspense, and a small town setting. St. Klaire has a good writing style and does a wonderful job with transitioning from present to past to present. The main characters are strong and their chemistry is steamy. The hero is strong, sexy, and a gentleman. The heroine is independent, guarded, left by her mother and raised by her best friends Granny Lou. The supporting characters, the “crew”, are enjoyable with their fun, witty banter and dedication to their jobs as well as each other. Eagerly waiting for the next book in the series.
I was provided a free copy for an honest review.
I was provided a free copy for an honest review.
April 30, 2016
A must read for romance lovers
This book is amazing in so many levels! It has a beautiful, heart warming love story, of course, but it also has amazing and lovable secondary characters, lol scenes with a witty toddler and a sassy grandma, and some suspense and action that keep you turning page after page, making it almost impossible to put your Kindle down.
Sam and Dawson had given up on love a long time ago, so they decide to non date. While non dating, their non relationship turns to something else worth exploring. Tragedy strikes on the worst timing ever and their non relationship is put to the test.
This book is amazing in so many levels! It has a beautiful, heart warming love story, of course, but it also has amazing and lovable secondary characters, lol scenes with a witty toddler and a sassy grandma, and some suspense and action that keep you turning page after page, making it almost impossible to put your Kindle down.
Sam and Dawson had given up on love a long time ago, so they decide to non date. While non dating, their non relationship turns to something else worth exploring. Tragedy strikes on the worst timing ever and their non relationship is put to the test.
June 15, 2016
Rescued - Could not put it down
This book grabbed me right from the beginning with the blood curdling screams & sent me on a suspenseful,sweet & fun ride.Dawson & Sam have both closed their hearts to love & each other as anything more than friends & yet that is exactly what creeps up on them.Amidst mystery,near misses & secrets,in a town that is one big family we find friends and enemies & sometimes your not quite sure who could be causing this turmoil.I cannot wait to read about the rest of the town,Sparks who wants a family & happily ever after,Blake,,Evie & the rest.This is a can't put down book.
This book grabbed me right from the beginning with the blood curdling screams & sent me on a suspenseful,sweet & fun ride.Dawson & Sam have both closed their hearts to love & each other as anything more than friends & yet that is exactly what creeps up on them.Amidst mystery,near misses & secrets,in a town that is one big family we find friends and enemies & sometimes your not quite sure who could be causing this turmoil.I cannot wait to read about the rest of the town,Sparks who wants a family & happily ever after,Blake,,Evie & the rest.This is a can't put down book.
July 20, 2016
This was wonderful sweet and sensual story. Dawson and Sam are wonderful couple. Dawson is so protective of her. My favorite line is " This. You consume me, every part of me, in every way possible. It feels right ....I have this overwhelming need to be with you take of you protect you ...kidnap you. "Dawson is so devoted to Sam. The interaction he has with her daughter Ellie is adorable. Looking forward to Colton's story and I hope Evie has story ( I loved her character). This is wonderful start to this series.
June 15, 2016
Stephanie St. Klaire grabs you from the first page. I didn't want to put it down and I knew right away it was going to be a fantastic read. I wanted to know what happened to Sam and why! Every time something happened that put the characters on edge, I tried to piece every bit of information given to me together to figure out who was out to hurt Sam and Dawson. Their relationship felt real, like it would really happen like that in a small town - and you felt like you were right there with them. And when the end came, I wanted more - always a sign of a great book in my opinion!
May 12, 2016
Stephanie St. Klaire has just become one of my favorite authors. Rescued has it all, romance, mystery, and humor. One can’t help but fall in love with Sam, Dawson, and Sam’s darling daughter Ellie. Sam doesn’t date and when Dawson finally convinces her to go one date, sparks fly. When tragedy strikes putting Sam in grave danger, you will be holding your breath, waiting for a fairytale outcome (just like Ellie). I can’t wait to get to read stories of the other residents of McKenzie Ridge!
June 21, 2016
I really loved this book. I read it a few hours. This book is an excellent debut for Stephanie St. Klaire. It has all of the elements that makes for a good story. Romance, humor, and suspense. I can't wait to read the second book in the series.
June 6, 2016
Wow 1st book
Amazing love story with a little suspense thrown in the mix. Dawson has his scarred past as well as Sam but the two over come that to bring a healed family together. Can't wait for Colton and Amy's story in Hidden.
Amazing love story with a little suspense thrown in the mix. Dawson has his scarred past as well as Sam but the two over come that to bring a healed family together. Can't wait for Colton and Amy's story in Hidden.
June 13, 2016
Goodness, I was surprised by this story. What a wonderful way to start a series and with the surprise ending, the reader is then wanting to get their hands on the next book. This new writer(to me) is now on my to-buy list from now one. Bravo!
June 16, 2016
omg this had me on the edge of my seat absolutely loved it. Dawson and Sam omg Dawson stole my heart brilliant story definitely a must read guys x
March 18, 2016
A sexy EMT and a nurse who weren't looking for love. Sam is a nurse who is married to her job and family. She doesn't have enough time or trust for a relationship. Dawson is your a sexy heartbreaker. They become unlikely friends and more.
This is a steamy romance with twists and turns you won't expect.
Great debut book! You would never know that Stephanie hasn't written 15 books already!
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a steamy romance with twists and turns you won't expect.
Great debut book! You would never know that Stephanie hasn't written 15 books already!
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2016
The premise of the story is fantastic. Two lost souls with tragic pasts finally deciding to take a chance. It's isn't until tragedy strikes that they realize life is too short. While danger surrounds them, they their love blooms and fight for each other.
In my opinion the story was hard to follow at many points with switching points of view mingled together. It became easy as I got used to the writing style. Great job on your first book. Congratulations.
In my opinion the story was hard to follow at many points with switching points of view mingled together. It became easy as I got used to the writing style. Great job on your first book. Congratulations.
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