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Cape Charade #2
What Doesn't Kill Her
One secret, one nightmare, one lie. You guess which is which.
1. I have the scar of a gunshot on my forehead.
2. I have willfully misrepresented my identity to the US military.
3. I'm the new mother of a seven-year-old girl.
Kellen Adams suffers from a yearlong gap in her memory. A bullet to the brain will cause that. But she's discovering the truth, and what she learns changes her life, her confidence, her very self. She finds herself in the wilderness, on the run, unprepared, her enemies unknown--and she is carrying a priceless burden she must protect at all costs. The consequences of failure would break her. And Kellen Adams does not break.
What doesn't kill her...had better start running.
1. I have the scar of a gunshot on my forehead.
2. I have willfully misrepresented my identity to the US military.
3. I'm the new mother of a seven-year-old girl.
Kellen Adams suffers from a yearlong gap in her memory. A bullet to the brain will cause that. But she's discovering the truth, and what she learns changes her life, her confidence, her very self. She finds herself in the wilderness, on the run, unprepared, her enemies unknown--and she is carrying a priceless burden she must protect at all costs. The consequences of failure would break her. And Kellen Adams does not break.
What doesn't kill her...had better start running.
384 pages, ebook
First published January 29, 2019
580 people are currently reading
2304 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dodd
100 books5,906 followersUpcoming:
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 424 reviews
February 26, 2019
What Doesn’t Kill Her by Christina Dodd is a 2019 HQN publication.
Non-stop action and adventure!!
I knew this chapter in the Cape Charade series was going to be awesome- but wow! This story exceeded my high expectations!!
As a gentle reminder- Kellen Adams lost a year of her life. She has no memories of what transpired during that very eventful year. As it turns out, Kellen recently discovered she is the mother of an adorable seven- year- old daughter, named Rae.
Upon making this shocking discovery, Kellen is having a very hard time bonding with her daughter and is beating herself up over it. Not only that, Kellen needs something to keep her brain and body busy- like a job, for example.
To that end, she accepts a mission to retrieve an artifact, a project that shouldn’t have been all that risky. However, Kellen is unaware that darling Rae, hoping to bond with her mother, has stowed away in a vehicle she is riding in, or that the seemingly benign assignment she has accepted is about to turn deadly-
Rae steals the show, hands down, but Kellen is one kick butt heroine!! The time she and Rae spend together on the run from would be assassins is simply outstanding. The poignancy of the budding mother -daughter bond, the adventure, humor, danger and intrigue, is a potent combination.
Kellen’s precarious health situation adds an even higher level of urgency to a taut, but also touching atmosphere. The only downside to this amazing thriller and romantic suspense story is that horrible cliffhanger at the end. Boo!! Ms. Dodd, why would you do that to me??? UGH! I’m on pins and needles here!!! LOL!
I can’t wait for the next heart pounding installment in this series!!
Non-stop action and adventure!!
I knew this chapter in the Cape Charade series was going to be awesome- but wow! This story exceeded my high expectations!!
As a gentle reminder- Kellen Adams lost a year of her life. She has no memories of what transpired during that very eventful year. As it turns out, Kellen recently discovered she is the mother of an adorable seven- year- old daughter, named Rae.
Upon making this shocking discovery, Kellen is having a very hard time bonding with her daughter and is beating herself up over it. Not only that, Kellen needs something to keep her brain and body busy- like a job, for example.
To that end, she accepts a mission to retrieve an artifact, a project that shouldn’t have been all that risky. However, Kellen is unaware that darling Rae, hoping to bond with her mother, has stowed away in a vehicle she is riding in, or that the seemingly benign assignment she has accepted is about to turn deadly-
Rae steals the show, hands down, but Kellen is one kick butt heroine!! The time she and Rae spend together on the run from would be assassins is simply outstanding. The poignancy of the budding mother -daughter bond, the adventure, humor, danger and intrigue, is a potent combination.
Kellen’s precarious health situation adds an even higher level of urgency to a taut, but also touching atmosphere. The only downside to this amazing thriller and romantic suspense story is that horrible cliffhanger at the end. Boo!! Ms. Dodd, why would you do that to me??? UGH! I’m on pins and needles here!!! LOL!
I can’t wait for the next heart pounding installment in this series!!
June 14, 2023
Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown of motherhood, especially when it is the head of Kellen Adams. Especially a crown of unknown motherhood. Huh. Lots of men don’t know they are fathers, but a mother not knowing she is a mother? C’mon.
Well maybe when motherhood comes about during the year Kellen was in a coma due to a bullet in the brain, already pregnant by the love of her life, Max Di Luca.
Maybe when motherhood is totally unknown as Kellen awakes in her hospital bed, alone for the first time in a year due to a distraction down the hall. She awakes missing more than a year of her life, no lover, no baby.
She flees the hospital in terror thinking she has been committed to an asylum. Kellen reinvents herself and emerges seven years later as Captain Kellen Adams on medical discharge from the US Army.
Kellen is discovered by the Di Luca family and is finally introduced to her enchanting daughter, Rae. This all happens in the first book of the series, the outstanding Dead Girl Running (DGR) and is also explained in the marvelous What Doesn’t Kill Her (WDKH)
Kellen moves into the family winery desperately hoping to connect with her daughter any maybe reconnect with Max.
For so many reasons Kellen finds herself failing at both. No one can understand why she unable to bond with the delightful Rae; however, I don’t think Kellen’s new found role as a mother is what inspired the title What Doesn’t Kill Her. But then, this is Rae.
In some ways though, Rae is more patient, smarter, and wiser than the adults; but only in some ways. Rae’s patience is beginning to run out, so she devises a plan to where her mom will be forced to spend some quality bonding time with her. Time yes, quality, not so much.
Kellen has devised ways to avoid Rae, sometimes by crawling into the bushes. But everyone knows about this tactic. Later when if becomes time to make plans for a winery event, Kellen crawls into the bushes to avoid her responsibilities, but in an amusing scene, everyone involved takes their turn to crawl into the bushes with her for consultation. Big brave Army Captain at work.
A talent Ms Dodd has in abundance, writing dialogue equally and wonderfully well whether it is a heartbreaking scène, to one that is laugh out loud funny.
Kellen finally decides she needs time away, so when a government agent requests her help on a security detail she agrees. Best laid plans and all that, and Kellen finds herself on the run protecting priceless artifacts.
The story is fast paced and exciting but this is such a character driven book, characters to really care about.
There were a few scenes that rang false. If I was the victim of domestic abuse who came out the tunnel a very strong woman, would I take yelling from another man? No matter the grounds?
Again the wild Pacific Northwest and the Olympia Peninsula are characters in their own right; wild and beautiful, like nowhere else on earth.
I reread the book last night. I love/hate this cliff hanging ending probably more than any book I’ve read in a long time. Tears were shed, for the second time. Yeah, Ms Dodd can invoke some hardcore emotion.
Many thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Well maybe when motherhood comes about during the year Kellen was in a coma due to a bullet in the brain, already pregnant by the love of her life, Max Di Luca.
Maybe when motherhood is totally unknown as Kellen awakes in her hospital bed, alone for the first time in a year due to a distraction down the hall. She awakes missing more than a year of her life, no lover, no baby.
She flees the hospital in terror thinking she has been committed to an asylum. Kellen reinvents herself and emerges seven years later as Captain Kellen Adams on medical discharge from the US Army.
Kellen is discovered by the Di Luca family and is finally introduced to her enchanting daughter, Rae. This all happens in the first book of the series, the outstanding Dead Girl Running (DGR) and is also explained in the marvelous What Doesn’t Kill Her (WDKH)
Kellen moves into the family winery desperately hoping to connect with her daughter any maybe reconnect with Max.
For so many reasons Kellen finds herself failing at both. No one can understand why she unable to bond with the delightful Rae; however, I don’t think Kellen’s new found role as a mother is what inspired the title What Doesn’t Kill Her. But then, this is Rae.
In some ways though, Rae is more patient, smarter, and wiser than the adults; but only in some ways. Rae’s patience is beginning to run out, so she devises a plan to where her mom will be forced to spend some quality bonding time with her. Time yes, quality, not so much.
Kellen has devised ways to avoid Rae, sometimes by crawling into the bushes. But everyone knows about this tactic. Later when if becomes time to make plans for a winery event, Kellen crawls into the bushes to avoid her responsibilities, but in an amusing scene, everyone involved takes their turn to crawl into the bushes with her for consultation. Big brave Army Captain at work.
A talent Ms Dodd has in abundance, writing dialogue equally and wonderfully well whether it is a heartbreaking scène, to one that is laugh out loud funny.
Kellen finally decides she needs time away, so when a government agent requests her help on a security detail she agrees. Best laid plans and all that, and Kellen finds herself on the run protecting priceless artifacts.
The story is fast paced and exciting but this is such a character driven book, characters to really care about.
There were a few scenes that rang false. If I was the victim of domestic abuse who came out the tunnel a very strong woman, would I take yelling from another man? No matter the grounds?
Again the wild Pacific Northwest and the Olympia Peninsula are characters in their own right; wild and beautiful, like nowhere else on earth.
I reread the book last night. I love/hate this cliff hanging ending probably more than any book I’ve read in a long time. Tears were shed, for the second time. Yeah, Ms Dodd can invoke some hardcore emotion.
Many thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange of a fair and honest review.
February 2, 2019
Shocking with quite the cliffhanger! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
What Doesn’t Kill Her begins with this shocking scenario:
One secret, one nightmare, one lie. You guess which is which.
1. I have the scar of a gunshot on my forehead.
2. I have willfully misrepresented my identity to the US military.
3. I’m the new mother of a seven-year-old girl.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is Kellen’s story. She’s lost a year of her memory as a result of a gunshot wound to her brain. Kellen is resilient, though, and even as she is alone and on the run in the wilderness, she finds herself, uncovers the truth she’s missing, and finds that, at her inner core, she’s unbreakable.
This is the second installment in a series and worked well as a standalone, but I think I would have gained even more insight into Kellen from the first book. The structure of this novel was one of my favorites- short, well-paced chapters that kept me flying through the pages.
Overall, there’s a wonderfully intense blend of thrilling suspense with a touch of romance in What Doesn’t Kill Her, and it ends with a HUGE, massive, giant cliffhanger that has me eager for the next book pronto!
Thanks to Harlequin Books for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
What Doesn’t Kill Her begins with this shocking scenario:
One secret, one nightmare, one lie. You guess which is which.
1. I have the scar of a gunshot on my forehead.
2. I have willfully misrepresented my identity to the US military.
3. I’m the new mother of a seven-year-old girl.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is Kellen’s story. She’s lost a year of her memory as a result of a gunshot wound to her brain. Kellen is resilient, though, and even as she is alone and on the run in the wilderness, she finds herself, uncovers the truth she’s missing, and finds that, at her inner core, she’s unbreakable.
This is the second installment in a series and worked well as a standalone, but I think I would have gained even more insight into Kellen from the first book. The structure of this novel was one of my favorites- short, well-paced chapters that kept me flying through the pages.
Overall, there’s a wonderfully intense blend of thrilling suspense with a touch of romance in What Doesn’t Kill Her, and it ends with a HUGE, massive, giant cliffhanger that has me eager for the next book pronto!
Thanks to Harlequin Books for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
January 29, 2019
Action-packed, suspenseful, and steamy!
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second novel in the Cape Charade series and once again we head back to the Pacific Northwest and into the life of Kellen Adams who is not only struggling to come to grips with a memory filled with holes and a daughter she never knew she had, but now finds herself the target of a vicious enemy driven by greed and a group of assassins sent to take what she’s been hired to protect.
The prose is sharp and tight. The characters are tenacious, unique, and amusing. And the plot is a compelling tale filled with twists, turns, familial drama, secrets, lies, danger, murder, sexual attraction, tension, and mayhem.
Overall, What Doesn’t Kill Her is another thrill ride by Dodd with a superb mix of suspense, romance, humour, and intriguing characters that have not only taken this series to a whole other level but left me impatient for more.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second novel in the Cape Charade series and once again we head back to the Pacific Northwest and into the life of Kellen Adams who is not only struggling to come to grips with a memory filled with holes and a daughter she never knew she had, but now finds herself the target of a vicious enemy driven by greed and a group of assassins sent to take what she’s been hired to protect.
The prose is sharp and tight. The characters are tenacious, unique, and amusing. And the plot is a compelling tale filled with twists, turns, familial drama, secrets, lies, danger, murder, sexual attraction, tension, and mayhem.
Overall, What Doesn’t Kill Her is another thrill ride by Dodd with a superb mix of suspense, romance, humour, and intriguing characters that have not only taken this series to a whole other level but left me impatient for more.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2025
This one wasn’t for me.
February 4, 2019
This book took me WAY too long to get through. It was slow in many parts and the storyline just meandered and meandered. I liked the first book in the series, but this one was tedious.
I don't care for the Rae character, I think she is too precocious and too articulate for a seven year old child. The mystery wasn't super compelling and I just never quite "got" what was going on with all of the chasing.
I will read the next book, because this one leaves off on quite a cliffhanger.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I don't care for the Rae character, I think she is too precocious and too articulate for a seven year old child. The mystery wasn't super compelling and I just never quite "got" what was going on with all of the chasing.
I will read the next book, because this one leaves off on quite a cliffhanger.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
January 27, 2019
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
Kellen and Max one of the more unusual couples I've read about. These two have a very twisted history, which was covered in the first book in the series, and is continued in this one. I completely understand Kellen's feelings and responses and why Max must be totally frustrated, no one is happy, well, maybe Rae. Kellen was shot in the head and in a coma for a year. When she woke up she was missing 14 months of her life. The last thing she remembers is being on the run and she takes off again and spends years in the Army. Seven years later she meets Max again and he has an unbelievable tale of Kellen giving birth to Rae, their daughter, during her coma and just disappearing.
Now that Max has found her, he isn't going to let her go again. To Kellen, he's a stranger and being a mother? No way. She hasn't got a maternal bone in her body and she is trying, but it's frustrating to everyone. It is definitely not the joyous reunion Max wanted, but Kellen isn't the same woman he knew before. To give things a little distance, Kellen takes a security job guarding an artifact in transit to be authenticated. Besides the priceless artifact being a lure for baddies, someone is after Kellen too. Rae stows away in the transport van and Kellen is faced with baddies willing to kill for the artifact and keeping her daughter safe. Quite the wonderful bonding adventure for Kellen and Rae, NOT! As the whole of Kellen's life proves: What doesn't kill her . . . makes her stronger.
Kellen and Max one of the more unusual couples I've read about. These two have a very twisted history, which was covered in the first book in the series, and is continued in this one. I completely understand Kellen's feelings and responses and why Max must be totally frustrated, no one is happy, well, maybe Rae. Kellen was shot in the head and in a coma for a year. When she woke up she was missing 14 months of her life. The last thing she remembers is being on the run and she takes off again and spends years in the Army. Seven years later she meets Max again and he has an unbelievable tale of Kellen giving birth to Rae, their daughter, during her coma and just disappearing.
Now that Max has found her, he isn't going to let her go again. To Kellen, he's a stranger and being a mother? No way. She hasn't got a maternal bone in her body and she is trying, but it's frustrating to everyone. It is definitely not the joyous reunion Max wanted, but Kellen isn't the same woman he knew before. To give things a little distance, Kellen takes a security job guarding an artifact in transit to be authenticated. Besides the priceless artifact being a lure for baddies, someone is after Kellen too. Rae stows away in the transport van and Kellen is faced with baddies willing to kill for the artifact and keeping her daughter safe. Quite the wonderful bonding adventure for Kellen and Rae, NOT! As the whole of Kellen's life proves: What doesn't kill her . . . makes her stronger.
February 6, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
As this Cape Charade series has progressed, Kellen Adams is still coping with a memory gap from a year of her life due to a bullet in her brain. It is now years later. She has recently discovered that during that trauma she actually gave birth and recently met her 7-year-old daughter Rae. She learned that the man she fell in love with after escaping the clutches of her terrifying and brutal husband, Max, fathered her daughter. It was while pregnant that Kellen was actually shot in the head. At one point, Kellen left the hospital, and this was after being in a coma, and fell off the grid.
Max has found her, but it didn't mean that the three would be able to become a happy little family. During Kellen's time away, she joined the Army and hasn't quite become herself. As a matter of fact, she really doesn't know who she could possibly be in life. In the previous novels, we learned that after her husband attempted to kill her, she assumed her cousin's identity, thus changing her name to Kellen. At some point, she met Max. Now, seven years later, Kellen has to come to grips with even new changes in her life. How can she become a loving mother to a little girl she never knew?
After learning about Rae, in a state of utter shock, Kellen takes off and ends up in the wilderness and the path is borne for her to start over. However, danger follows closely on her tail and it seems that the running that she started might never come to an end. Someone is still trying to kill her and one might wonder how many lives this one woman has.
What Doesn't Kill Her is a thrilling tale of suspense and mystery, with romance and family seamlessly blended in. Just as each book before, we are left hanging with another cliffhanger. I cannot imagine what is now in store for Kellen. Other books in this series are Hard to Kill, Dead Girl Running and Families and Other Enemies, all available now. To follow later this year are Hidden Truths and Strangers She Knows.
As this Cape Charade series has progressed, Kellen Adams is still coping with a memory gap from a year of her life due to a bullet in her brain. It is now years later. She has recently discovered that during that trauma she actually gave birth and recently met her 7-year-old daughter Rae. She learned that the man she fell in love with after escaping the clutches of her terrifying and brutal husband, Max, fathered her daughter. It was while pregnant that Kellen was actually shot in the head. At one point, Kellen left the hospital, and this was after being in a coma, and fell off the grid.
Max has found her, but it didn't mean that the three would be able to become a happy little family. During Kellen's time away, she joined the Army and hasn't quite become herself. As a matter of fact, she really doesn't know who she could possibly be in life. In the previous novels, we learned that after her husband attempted to kill her, she assumed her cousin's identity, thus changing her name to Kellen. At some point, she met Max. Now, seven years later, Kellen has to come to grips with even new changes in her life. How can she become a loving mother to a little girl she never knew?
After learning about Rae, in a state of utter shock, Kellen takes off and ends up in the wilderness and the path is borne for her to start over. However, danger follows closely on her tail and it seems that the running that she started might never come to an end. Someone is still trying to kill her and one might wonder how many lives this one woman has.
What Doesn't Kill Her is a thrilling tale of suspense and mystery, with romance and family seamlessly blended in. Just as each book before, we are left hanging with another cliffhanger. I cannot imagine what is now in store for Kellen. Other books in this series are Hard to Kill, Dead Girl Running and Families and Other Enemies, all available now. To follow later this year are Hidden Truths and Strangers She Knows.
dnf-or-skipped
August 12, 2020DNF
In the first three pages, the MC has
* married a man twice her age WHY?
* survived his murder of her cousin
* seen her husband commit suicide
* stolen her cousin's identity WTF?
* rescued a toddler from a kidnapper
* married the girl's uncle (we're on to page 2 now)
* run away when her husband found out she was impersonating her cousin AS YOU DO
* been shot in the head by the wannabe kidnapper
* been in a coma for a year
* woken up with amnesia
* joined the Army TO FORGET?
* spent six years in the army
* met her husband again
* discovered she's the mother of a seven-year-old girl. YOU DON'T SAY.
I can't even. Twitter is full of people saying Be Kind to Yourself. And for once, I've obeyed. DNF.
EDITED - OK, this turns out to be book 2 in a series. Even so. And
Caz gave book 1 a D+. I rest my case.
In the first three pages, the MC has
* married a man twice her age WHY?
* survived his murder of her cousin
* seen her husband commit suicide
* stolen her cousin's identity WTF?
* rescued a toddler from a kidnapper
* married the girl's uncle (we're on to page 2 now)
* run away when her husband found out she was impersonating her cousin AS YOU DO
* been shot in the head by the wannabe kidnapper
* been in a coma for a year
* woken up with amnesia
* joined the Army TO FORGET?
* spent six years in the army
* met her husband again
* discovered she's the mother of a seven-year-old girl. YOU DON'T SAY.
I can't even. Twitter is full of people saying Be Kind to Yourself. And for once, I've obeyed. DNF.
EDITED - OK, this turns out to be book 2 in a series. Even so. And
Caz gave book 1 a D+. I rest my case.
February 5, 2022
Romantic Suspense / Mystery / Thriller / Action / Wilderness
Cape Charade Book 2
Published: January 29, 2019
In this second Cape Charade book Kellen Adams finds herself in the wilderness, unprepared, on the run, her enemies unknown. She is carrying a priceless Triple Goddess and like it wasn't enough she discover her new seven-year-old daughter, Rae, has tagged along to "bond". Each moment might be their last. Can she keep them safe from their unknown enemies?
No one ever told her being a mother was a wiggling wormy bag of guilt, worry and difficult decisions.
An absolutely unputdownable, suspenseful, humorous, unique story that is filled with lovable, amusing and well developed characters, and amazing adventure filled plot. I liked the fast-paced writing style and short chapters.
Kellen is the perfect mix of badass and vulnerability. Life has put her through hell, but she’s determined not to let the bad things she’s experienced turn her into a person dominated by fear or hate. I liked her strong will, resilient spirit and survival skills against all odds. And Max...one of my favorite heroes. So loving, sexy, caring and protective. Perfect for Kellan. And lets not forget Rae and the rest of the family.
Say you’re Kellen Adams. You’ve been abused. You’ve been homeless. But you’ve put all that behind you and become a strong, skilled, and confident woman. One problem: you suffer from a yearlong gap in your memory. A bullet to the brain will cause that. But you’re discovering the truth, and what you learn changes everything you think you know about yourself.
Can't wait to read third book, Strangers She Knows!
Cape Charade Book 2
Published: January 29, 2019
In this second Cape Charade book Kellen Adams finds herself in the wilderness, unprepared, on the run, her enemies unknown. She is carrying a priceless Triple Goddess and like it wasn't enough she discover her new seven-year-old daughter, Rae, has tagged along to "bond". Each moment might be their last. Can she keep them safe from their unknown enemies?
No one ever told her being a mother was a wiggling wormy bag of guilt, worry and difficult decisions.
An absolutely unputdownable, suspenseful, humorous, unique story that is filled with lovable, amusing and well developed characters, and amazing adventure filled plot. I liked the fast-paced writing style and short chapters.
Kellen is the perfect mix of badass and vulnerability. Life has put her through hell, but she’s determined not to let the bad things she’s experienced turn her into a person dominated by fear or hate. I liked her strong will, resilient spirit and survival skills against all odds. And Max...one of my favorite heroes. So loving, sexy, caring and protective. Perfect for Kellan. And lets not forget Rae and the rest of the family.
Say you’re Kellen Adams. You’ve been abused. You’ve been homeless. But you’ve put all that behind you and become a strong, skilled, and confident woman. One problem: you suffer from a yearlong gap in your memory. A bullet to the brain will cause that. But you’re discovering the truth, and what you learn changes everything you think you know about yourself.
Can't wait to read third book, Strangers She Knows!
January 30, 2019
Oh WOW! Another fabulous book in this mind blowing series. I literally could not put the book down. Suspense, mystery, romance and amazing/complex characters. It has it all. I just love Kellen. My, how far she has come! Max has proven to be a dream come true for Kellen on her incredible journey. And, Rae! Such a delightful addition to the cast of memorable characters. I just love this series. And, that teaser at the end! Cruel, Ms. Dodd! LOL! I cannot wait for the next one!
January 29, 2019
When you get lucky enough to be chosen for an advanced reader group, jump on it! I love this author and everything she writes so of course I am excited.
This series is dear to me because of the settings in the Northwest. If you haven’t been there, you’ll feel like you have once you’re finished reading many of her stories. In this one, she blends the words so well that you feel each and every step that Kellen Adams takes. And she takes a lot! You see, Kellen isn’t really Kellen but she knows that she missed a year of her life. And when she found out that she had a daughter, in no way was she prepared for that. And she feels guilty because, well, she is a mother whether she feels like it or not and that seems to come with the territory.
When she takes a job to deliver a valuable artifact, her seven year old daughter stows away wanting to bond with her. Things go sideways and they are on the run. It’s funny and it’s scary and it just makes you want to cry, especially if you have a daughter of your own who pulled her share of stunts as a child!
When Kellen and Rae make it back home, all Max wants is his family. It seems his daughter has bonded with her mother in more ways than he expected. There is never a dull moment in their lives, and he’s happy with that so long as they are together.
No spoilers here – read it and see! I know you will love it as I did. And if you haven’t read the other books in the series, do that first so you’ll understand some of the background a little more.
This series is dear to me because of the settings in the Northwest. If you haven’t been there, you’ll feel like you have once you’re finished reading many of her stories. In this one, she blends the words so well that you feel each and every step that Kellen Adams takes. And she takes a lot! You see, Kellen isn’t really Kellen but she knows that she missed a year of her life. And when she found out that she had a daughter, in no way was she prepared for that. And she feels guilty because, well, she is a mother whether she feels like it or not and that seems to come with the territory.
When she takes a job to deliver a valuable artifact, her seven year old daughter stows away wanting to bond with her. Things go sideways and they are on the run. It’s funny and it’s scary and it just makes you want to cry, especially if you have a daughter of your own who pulled her share of stunts as a child!
When Kellen and Rae make it back home, all Max wants is his family. It seems his daughter has bonded with her mother in more ways than he expected. There is never a dull moment in their lives, and he’s happy with that so long as they are together.
No spoilers here – read it and see! I know you will love it as I did. And if you haven’t read the other books in the series, do that first so you’ll understand some of the background a little more.
January 31, 2019
I LOVED this book! This was my introduction to this series and it was fantastic! I received it as an ARC from Harlequin and it truly blew my mind! I immediately ordered book #1 and pre-ordered book #3!
February 18, 2019
I received this book from Harlequin Publicity Team for honest review.
What a great thrill and suspense it was to read. What a great psychological thrill! This novel had everything in it. The thrill, the suspense, the psychological, romance and the twist is crazy. This novel will keep you thinking and guessing. When you think you right, well let me just say that you might be wrong. This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! I couldn't believe what I was reading. If had me in shock. Every page, every chapter was a page turner. I couldn't believe my eyes what I was reading. I highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. It will surprise you in every way.
The storyline was very good!
The theme and setting was well put together. The characters was well put together in the story.
This story will have in a rollercoaster with all the spooky and secrets. Was so well put in the story.
Everything all in one book.
It was just perfect!
I highly recommend everybody get this and read it.
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. What a Rollercoaster! The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel would have you guess and thinking all the way to the end. What a great thrill and suspense. I love a great suspense that would have me think and guessing. This novel did just that to me. To the point that am wrong. When the ending comes am on shock. I wouldn't of never believe or guess. Like OMG!
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
Kellen Adams has been a victim, a survivor, and a warrior. She’s prepared for anything…except learning that she’s the mother of a seven-year-old that she never knew existed. Kellen doesn’t know what to do with her daughter, Rae, or with Max, the lover she only has fleeting memories of thanks to the bullet in her head that took her memories and left her in a coma for a year. Kellen is floundering when she takes the opportunity for what should be a simple security job. A few days away from Rae and Max may help to clear her head. But when her mission turns deadly, it’s a race through the wilderness and a fight for survival Kellen can’t afford to lose.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is a tense thriller that had me eagerly turning the pages late into the night. I loved Kellen in Dead Girl Running and I continued to do so as I learned more about her. She is so strong, has been through absolute he** more than once, and she never stops fighting. She has looked death in the face but what scares her most at the start of this is trying to navigate the waters of motherhood. Rae is bright, chatty, endearing, and just a fun kid. She’s adorable and Kellen can see she’s a good kid, but she’s having trouble bonding with her. Her reasons make sense and I actually liked that Kellen didn’t instantly bond with Rae, but rather we got to watch their relationship develop. We also get to see how Kellen’s relationship with Max plays out. Even though he’s caring and patient with Kellen, things can be (understandably) bumpy between Kellen and Max because he’s an incredibly loving, protective father who wants Rae to have the mother she yearns for. The romance between Kellen and Max starts out as a slow burn, but when things pick up speed it’s clear that old feelings never died. I loved watching the romantic and familial relationships develop over the course of the story.
Of course, if Kellen, Max, and Rae want to become one happy family, they all have to survive the events of What Doesn’t Kill Her. It’s difficult for me to talk about the suspense element without giving away spoilers, so forgive me for being overly vague. A race up the mountain is only the beginning of Kellen’s problems in this story. She faces multiple threats and horrible odds, is beaten, bruised, and pushed to her limits, but she never gives up. I hated having to put the book down as the tension mounted and the stakes were raised higher and higher.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second full-length book in the Cape Charade series and you should definitely read Dead Girl Running before diving into this book. Like its predecessor, What Doesn’t Kill Her is captivating from beginning to end. Christina Dodd knows how to make readers beg for more and – given the cliffhanger ending in this book – I am definitely on the edge of my seat as I wait to discover what happens next.
What a great thrill and suspense it was to read. What a great psychological thrill! This novel had everything in it. The thrill, the suspense, the psychological, romance and the twist is crazy. This novel will keep you thinking and guessing. When you think you right, well let me just say that you might be wrong. This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! I couldn't believe what I was reading. If had me in shock. Every page, every chapter was a page turner. I couldn't believe my eyes what I was reading. I highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. It will surprise you in every way.
The storyline was very good!
The theme and setting was well put together. The characters was well put together in the story.
This story will have in a rollercoaster with all the spooky and secrets. Was so well put in the story.
Everything all in one book.
It was just perfect!
I highly recommend everybody get this and read it.
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. What a Rollercoaster! The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel would have you guess and thinking all the way to the end. What a great thrill and suspense. I love a great suspense that would have me think and guessing. This novel did just that to me. To the point that am wrong. When the ending comes am on shock. I wouldn't of never believe or guess. Like OMG!
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
Kellen Adams has been a victim, a survivor, and a warrior. She’s prepared for anything…except learning that she’s the mother of a seven-year-old that she never knew existed. Kellen doesn’t know what to do with her daughter, Rae, or with Max, the lover she only has fleeting memories of thanks to the bullet in her head that took her memories and left her in a coma for a year. Kellen is floundering when she takes the opportunity for what should be a simple security job. A few days away from Rae and Max may help to clear her head. But when her mission turns deadly, it’s a race through the wilderness and a fight for survival Kellen can’t afford to lose.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is a tense thriller that had me eagerly turning the pages late into the night. I loved Kellen in Dead Girl Running and I continued to do so as I learned more about her. She is so strong, has been through absolute he** more than once, and she never stops fighting. She has looked death in the face but what scares her most at the start of this is trying to navigate the waters of motherhood. Rae is bright, chatty, endearing, and just a fun kid. She’s adorable and Kellen can see she’s a good kid, but she’s having trouble bonding with her. Her reasons make sense and I actually liked that Kellen didn’t instantly bond with Rae, but rather we got to watch their relationship develop. We also get to see how Kellen’s relationship with Max plays out. Even though he’s caring and patient with Kellen, things can be (understandably) bumpy between Kellen and Max because he’s an incredibly loving, protective father who wants Rae to have the mother she yearns for. The romance between Kellen and Max starts out as a slow burn, but when things pick up speed it’s clear that old feelings never died. I loved watching the romantic and familial relationships develop over the course of the story.
Of course, if Kellen, Max, and Rae want to become one happy family, they all have to survive the events of What Doesn’t Kill Her. It’s difficult for me to talk about the suspense element without giving away spoilers, so forgive me for being overly vague. A race up the mountain is only the beginning of Kellen’s problems in this story. She faces multiple threats and horrible odds, is beaten, bruised, and pushed to her limits, but she never gives up. I hated having to put the book down as the tension mounted and the stakes were raised higher and higher.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second full-length book in the Cape Charade series and you should definitely read Dead Girl Running before diving into this book. Like its predecessor, What Doesn’t Kill Her is captivating from beginning to end. Christina Dodd knows how to make readers beg for more and – given the cliffhanger ending in this book – I am definitely on the edge of my seat as I wait to discover what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Thriller
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
What Doesn't Kill Her is the second installment in author Christina Dodd's Cape Charade trilogy. Against all odds, Kellen Adams has proven she can survive and thrive. But to protect the family she never knew, including a daughter she is just getting used to, she now must defend against a menace she can’t imagine. What Doesn't Kill Her is a novel that doesn't stand alone.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Thriller
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
What Doesn't Kill Her is the second installment in author Christina Dodd's Cape Charade trilogy. Against all odds, Kellen Adams has proven she can survive and thrive. But to protect the family she never knew, including a daughter she is just getting used to, she now must defend against a menace she can’t imagine. What Doesn't Kill Her is a novel that doesn't stand alone.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
January 29, 2019
4.5 stars - Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Kellen Adams has been a victim, a survivor, and a warrior. She’s prepared for anything…except learning that she’s the mother of a seven-year-old that she never knew existed. Kellen doesn’t know what to do with her daughter, Rae, or with Max, the lover she only has fleeting memories of thanks to the bullet in her head that took her memories and left her in a coma for a year. Kellen is floundering when she takes the opportunity for what should be a simple security job. A few days away from Rae and Max may help to clear her head. But when her mission turns deadly, it’s a race through the wilderness and a fight for survival Kellen can’t afford to lose.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is a tense thriller that had me eagerly turning the pages late into the night. I loved Kellen in Dead Girl Running and I continued to do so as I learned more about her. She is so strong, has been through absolute hell more than once, and she never stops fighting. She has looked death in the face but what scares her most at the start of this is trying to navigate the waters of motherhood. Rae is bright, chatty, endearing, and just a fun kid. She’s adorable and Kellen can see she’s a good kid, but she’s having trouble bonding with her. Her reasons make sense and I actually liked that Kellen didn’t instantly bond with Rae, but rather we got to watch their relationship develop. We also get to see how Kellen’s relationship with Max plays out. Even though he’s caring and patient with Kellen, things can be (understandably) bumpy between Kellen and Max because he’s an incredibly loving, protective father who wants Rae to have the mother she yearns for. The romance between Kellen and Max starts out as a slow burn, but when things pick up speed it’s clear that old feelings never died. I loved watching the romantic and familial relationships develop over the course of the story.
Of course, if Kellen, Max, and Rae want to become one happy family, they all have to survive the events of What Doesn’t Kill Her . It’s difficult for me to talk about the suspense element without giving away spoilers, so forgive me for being overly vague. A race up the mountain is only the beginning of Kellen’s problems in this story. She faces multiple threats and horrible odds, is beaten, bruised, and pushed to her limits, but she never gives up. I hated having to put the book down as the tension mounted and the stakes were raised higher and higher.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second full-length book in the Cape Charade series and you should definitely read Dead Girl Running before diving into this book. Like its predecessor, What Doesn’t Kill Her is captivating from beginning to end. Christina Dodd knows how to make readers beg for more and – given the cliffhanger ending in this book – I am definitely on the edge of my seat as I wait to discover what happens next.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Kellen Adams has been a victim, a survivor, and a warrior. She’s prepared for anything…except learning that she’s the mother of a seven-year-old that she never knew existed. Kellen doesn’t know what to do with her daughter, Rae, or with Max, the lover she only has fleeting memories of thanks to the bullet in her head that took her memories and left her in a coma for a year. Kellen is floundering when she takes the opportunity for what should be a simple security job. A few days away from Rae and Max may help to clear her head. But when her mission turns deadly, it’s a race through the wilderness and a fight for survival Kellen can’t afford to lose.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is a tense thriller that had me eagerly turning the pages late into the night. I loved Kellen in Dead Girl Running and I continued to do so as I learned more about her. She is so strong, has been through absolute hell more than once, and she never stops fighting. She has looked death in the face but what scares her most at the start of this is trying to navigate the waters of motherhood. Rae is bright, chatty, endearing, and just a fun kid. She’s adorable and Kellen can see she’s a good kid, but she’s having trouble bonding with her. Her reasons make sense and I actually liked that Kellen didn’t instantly bond with Rae, but rather we got to watch their relationship develop. We also get to see how Kellen’s relationship with Max plays out. Even though he’s caring and patient with Kellen, things can be (understandably) bumpy between Kellen and Max because he’s an incredibly loving, protective father who wants Rae to have the mother she yearns for. The romance between Kellen and Max starts out as a slow burn, but when things pick up speed it’s clear that old feelings never died. I loved watching the romantic and familial relationships develop over the course of the story.
Of course, if Kellen, Max, and Rae want to become one happy family, they all have to survive the events of What Doesn’t Kill Her . It’s difficult for me to talk about the suspense element without giving away spoilers, so forgive me for being overly vague. A race up the mountain is only the beginning of Kellen’s problems in this story. She faces multiple threats and horrible odds, is beaten, bruised, and pushed to her limits, but she never gives up. I hated having to put the book down as the tension mounted and the stakes were raised higher and higher.
What Doesn’t Kill Her is the second full-length book in the Cape Charade series and you should definitely read Dead Girl Running before diving into this book. Like its predecessor, What Doesn’t Kill Her is captivating from beginning to end. Christina Dodd knows how to make readers beg for more and – given the cliffhanger ending in this book – I am definitely on the edge of my seat as I wait to discover what happens next.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
February 14, 2019
4.5/5
[I received a physical copy from Harlequin Publicity Team for an honest review]
I was more than a little excited to dive back into Christina Dodd's Cape Charade series. I had a few questions at the end of Dead Girl Running that I wanted answers to and so many emotions for the characters.
Kellen Adams is trying to cope with being in a relationship and being a mother. She still doesn't have all her memories back and that is making the changes challenging. In order to feel like herself again she accepts a job to transport / protect a priceless artifact. It's not long before she's running for not only her life but also her daughter's life. A high-stakes "adventure" brings a whole new take on mother-daughter bonding. Even when they are literally out of the woods Kellen's life is still in danger and her past comes back for revenge.
"one thing the military had taught her- things go wrong, people lie, and a mission schedule waivers according to those two things.
Kellen's character is as great as she was in the first book. Still had strong, fiercely loyal, and just all-around bad a**. We did get to see a lot more vulnerability this time around and it made her even stronger in my eyes. Also, I'm glad we got to know Max more with chapters from his point of view. He's handsome, charming, protective and ridiculously in love with Kellen and their daughter. Their daughter, Rae, was a delightful energetic young girl who added some needed comic relief during intense story line.
"Mommy, that was awesome. You're like warrior woman. That makes me worry or girl. I'm going to be worried or girl for Halloween. What are you going to?''
Overall, I enjoyed What Doesn't Kill Her even more than the first book. The point of view changes and character compatibility kept the story compelling and interesting. Now with the sending, I'm already dying for the next book. I need more Max, Kellen and Rae in my life immediately!
[I received a physical copy from Harlequin Publicity Team for an honest review]
I was more than a little excited to dive back into Christina Dodd's Cape Charade series. I had a few questions at the end of Dead Girl Running that I wanted answers to and so many emotions for the characters.
Kellen Adams is trying to cope with being in a relationship and being a mother. She still doesn't have all her memories back and that is making the changes challenging. In order to feel like herself again she accepts a job to transport / protect a priceless artifact. It's not long before she's running for not only her life but also her daughter's life. A high-stakes "adventure" brings a whole new take on mother-daughter bonding. Even when they are literally out of the woods Kellen's life is still in danger and her past comes back for revenge.
"one thing the military had taught her- things go wrong, people lie, and a mission schedule waivers according to those two things.
Kellen's character is as great as she was in the first book. Still had strong, fiercely loyal, and just all-around bad a**. We did get to see a lot more vulnerability this time around and it made her even stronger in my eyes. Also, I'm glad we got to know Max more with chapters from his point of view. He's handsome, charming, protective and ridiculously in love with Kellen and their daughter. Their daughter, Rae, was a delightful energetic young girl who added some needed comic relief during intense story line.
"Mommy, that was awesome. You're like warrior woman. That makes me worry or girl. I'm going to be worried or girl for Halloween. What are you going to?''
Overall, I enjoyed What Doesn't Kill Her even more than the first book. The point of view changes and character compatibility kept the story compelling and interesting. Now with the sending, I'm already dying for the next book. I need more Max, Kellen and Rae in my life immediately!
"She didn't want to feel things. She didn't want to remember [...] She didn't want to know that if she failed, death would follow"
4.5
November 25, 2018
A suspenseful romance that picks up a couple months after Dead Girl Running. Kellen is still trying to adjust to her civilian life and her new roles as Max Di Luca's former lover and mother of his child Rae. While the civilian life is getting easier, the confusing tangle of emotions she has when it comes to Max and Rae leave her feeling out of sorts. It doesn't get any easier especially when her new job has her running and trying to figure out who is trying to kill her and why. Christina Dodd has done a wonderful job weaving in creative elements of surprise, suspense and romance. I had to jog my memory as I had read Dead Girl Running a year ago, but it was worth the time to read both books together. The continuation doesn't disappoint and leaves you intrigued for the next book. Dodd sets up the scenario and dialog in a way that drags you in and makes you want to never put the book down until you're done. I always hope for a little bit more about Max and now I want to know more about Rae. I know Kellen is the star but as they become more prominent members in the series, I hope to get more insight into their lives. Pick up the book, You won't be disappointed, although I do believe you should read Dead Girl Running first if you haven't.
July 8, 2019
What Doesn't Kill Her by Christina Dodd was really a very good read. I had a couple of disappointments in the book - it was part of a series (but you won't be lost) and it ended on a cliffhanger. I'm not a fan of books that end on a cliffhanger. I'm a one book and done type of reader.
Kellen has a year-long gap in her memory, she was shot in the head, she woke up from a coma into a different world and still not being able to face the world, she runs off and joins the Army. She is tough. Tours in Afghanistan, a bullet to the head and can fight - what she can't handle is learning how to be a mom to a 7-year-old daughter that she gave birth to while in a coma.
That's enough to blow anyone's mind. But when someone tries to steal an antique that she should protect and tries to kill her, Kellen vows to fight back and protect her daughter at all costs.
No spoiler review here. Read it, you'll like it, just remember there is a cliffhanger but now I really do want to read book one and the follow up book. I want to know what happens to Kellen and her family. Good book, well done Ms. Dodd.
Kellen has a year-long gap in her memory, she was shot in the head, she woke up from a coma into a different world and still not being able to face the world, she runs off and joins the Army. She is tough. Tours in Afghanistan, a bullet to the head and can fight - what she can't handle is learning how to be a mom to a 7-year-old daughter that she gave birth to while in a coma.
That's enough to blow anyone's mind. But when someone tries to steal an antique that she should protect and tries to kill her, Kellen vows to fight back and protect her daughter at all costs.
No spoiler review here. Read it, you'll like it, just remember there is a cliffhanger but now I really do want to read book one and the follow up book. I want to know what happens to Kellen and her family. Good book, well done Ms. Dodd.
February 12, 2019
If you’re looking for action, adventure, suspense, mystery, and a little romance look no farther than Christina Dodd’s What Doesn’t Kill Her. This book continues the story started in Dead Girl Running, but there’s enough of a back story that you could read it and not get lost. Kellen Adams is a very interesting character and you spend your time either wanting to shake her or hug her; her life has definitely not been an easy one.
I recommend that you pick up a copy of What Doesn’t Kill Her and go along for the ride.
I recommend that you pick up a copy of What Doesn’t Kill Her and go along for the ride.
February 16, 2019
Ih dear, Kellen really needs to get a break!!!! This one is a continuous run of challenges. Rae, aka LightningBug, is wonderful. I hope and pray the next book, which cannot come too soon for me, gives Kellen a happy ending!!
July 9, 2019
Some men considered kissing nothing but a preliminary to the main event. Some men considered kissing a coin to be repaid at the time and place of their choosing. This man kissed for the bliss of sharing breath, sharing touch, sharing pleasure.
July 9, 2019
This audio book forces you to immediately become engaged. The narrator literally says “This is important, pay attention”. A cliffhanger of an ending.....definitely to be continued.
January 27, 2019
What Doesn't Kill Her by Christina Dodd is the second book in the Cape Charade series and it swept me up into Kellen's life from the first chapter.
Kellen Adams is continuing to remember her past and becoming more open to both Max and Rae. She is definitely a warrior but is struggling with emotions in this one as she is only now remembering the time before she was shot. This time we get to see and hear more about Max - his thoughts and his feelings regarding Kellen and Rae. Rae is absolutely the best secondary character I've ever read. She is charming, stubborn and won my heart. Ms. Dodd's characters were strongly developed in Dead Girl Running and yet readers will learn even more about them in this story. The plot was quickly paced and filled with action and suspense. Although the clues were there among the twists, I was totally in the dark until the spine tingling reveal. I couldn't put the book down and the ending has me totally hooked for the next book in the series, Strangers She Knows.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
Kellen Adams is continuing to remember her past and becoming more open to both Max and Rae. She is definitely a warrior but is struggling with emotions in this one as she is only now remembering the time before she was shot. This time we get to see and hear more about Max - his thoughts and his feelings regarding Kellen and Rae. Rae is absolutely the best secondary character I've ever read. She is charming, stubborn and won my heart. Ms. Dodd's characters were strongly developed in Dead Girl Running and yet readers will learn even more about them in this story. The plot was quickly paced and filled with action and suspense. Although the clues were there among the twists, I was totally in the dark until the spine tingling reveal. I couldn't put the book down and the ending has me totally hooked for the next book in the series, Strangers She Knows.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
January 29, 2019
What would you be willing to do to keep your child safe? So riveting was this story that I finished it in a day and a half. This is a fast moving action-packed suspenseful romance with well-built characters, great dialogue, and humor. It's a story about love and sacrifice. Kellen (CeeCee) and Max are very well matched and Rae, their sassy smart daughter, just pops out at you. You just know she had to be based on someone the author knows well, maybe one of her own daughters.
Although I enjoy reading about the guy being the hero, I found great satisfaction in reading about our gal being the superhero in this tale, as well as her clever “sidekick”. Loved this book. I laughed, I cried, I read to my hubby.
It is not required that you read the previous books beforehand as you are quickly and creatively caught up in the first pages. But since this one was so good, now I’ll probably go back and read the previous books. This does end in a gripping cliffhanger and I can hardly wait for the next book to find out what happens next.
My copy was provided in advance by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Although I enjoy reading about the guy being the hero, I found great satisfaction in reading about our gal being the superhero in this tale, as well as her clever “sidekick”. Loved this book. I laughed, I cried, I read to my hubby.
It is not required that you read the previous books beforehand as you are quickly and creatively caught up in the first pages. But since this one was so good, now I’ll probably go back and read the previous books. This does end in a gripping cliffhanger and I can hardly wait for the next book to find out what happens next.
My copy was provided in advance by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2019
This is the second story in the Cape Charade series and it takes place a few months after DEAD GIRL RUNNING. Kellen Adams is trying very hard to adjust to a new life with Max Di Luca and their daughter, Rae, but it's not easy for any of them. She accepts a security job with Nils Brooks but everything goes wrong and she finds herself on the run from assassins in the wilderness and inadvertently taking Rae along on an adventure! Rae imagines Kellen and herself as superheroes "ThunderFlash" and "LighningBug" and it's interesting to see them fill those roles and fight the bad guys. By the time they are able to reach the mountain lookout, Kellen realizes that there is more going on than an attempt to steal the priceless artifact "Triple Goddess", but the mystery is not easily solved.
I recommend that one reads the first story and then the second one. There are clues and references to earlier events of Kellen's recent life that are better explained. I am not sure what to expect with the next story but I am definitely looking forward to reading it!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are my own.
I recommend that one reads the first story and then the second one. There are clues and references to earlier events of Kellen's recent life that are better explained. I am not sure what to expect with the next story but I am definitely looking forward to reading it!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are my own.
March 15, 2019
I love Christina Dodd books, don't get me wrong. So why take away a star? I'll get to that. This is the second in the Cape Charade series. Kellen has a bullet in her brain. Not that we remember that too often. She woke up from a coma to find out she has a daughter born while she was unconscious. That child is now seven and precocious. That's the problem. Kellen hasn't bonded with Rae. There's a mystery of course and great chase scenes. Dodd is wonderful at those. But here's the issue I have with this book dedicated to Dodd's own daughters. I've taught kids Rae's age, for decades. I don't care how much you love your own children, be careful when you start writing about one of these darlings. They can take over a book. This time I felt like there was too much Rae and she's just too much. Period. I've had a lot of brilliant, special students and none of them sounded like this one. I wanted more mystery, less bonding. Of course there was the trademark Dodd funny dialogue and the romance with Max, Kellen's lover. But the cliff hanger ending compels us to wait for book 3. Am I compelled? Of course, but I hope Rae isn't quite so front and center in the next one.
January 29, 2019
Christina Dodd does it again!!!!!!! A must read.
I loved this book, it keeps you on your toes till the very end. I highly recommend this book for anyone, it has it all, intrigue, mystery, and romance.
One secret, One Nightmare and One lie, guess which is which.
Kellen Adams has a lot going on in her head, along with a bullet bouncing around in there. But to see her starting to bond with her daughter and realize what really matters was great. Her daughter is one big ball of energy and will have you laughing one minute and crying the next with some of the things she does and says.
It is hard to not revel the whole story because i don't want to spoil it for you but i guarantee it is a must read.
I am so excited and can hardly wait for the next book to come out.
I loved this book, it keeps you on your toes till the very end. I highly recommend this book for anyone, it has it all, intrigue, mystery, and romance.
One secret, One Nightmare and One lie, guess which is which.
Kellen Adams has a lot going on in her head, along with a bullet bouncing around in there. But to see her starting to bond with her daughter and realize what really matters was great. Her daughter is one big ball of energy and will have you laughing one minute and crying the next with some of the things she does and says.
It is hard to not revel the whole story because i don't want to spoil it for you but i guarantee it is a must read.
I am so excited and can hardly wait for the next book to come out.
February 9, 2019
An incredible ride! One of the best books I've read so far this year. Hooked me in from the first page. If you're looking for a book to stay up all night with, then look no further. I kept telling myself just one more chapter until I was too tired to read more.
Kellan Adams is awesome! She's tough as nails and resourceful, and just found out she's a mom. Rae is such a cute little girl, and takes after her mom. Max is the hero who every reader will love. I'm hoping he'll be in the spotlight more in the next one.
Everything about this keeps you riveted. My only complaint is that I'm wondering how fast the author can write the next book because I can't wait. Starting with the first book is highly recommended to fully enjoy the series.
Kellan Adams is awesome! She's tough as nails and resourceful, and just found out she's a mom. Rae is such a cute little girl, and takes after her mom. Max is the hero who every reader will love. I'm hoping he'll be in the spotlight more in the next one.
Everything about this keeps you riveted. My only complaint is that I'm wondering how fast the author can write the next book because I can't wait. Starting with the first book is highly recommended to fully enjoy the series.
January 30, 2019
Really exciting
Excellent story, great characters, a fun read! There is only one thing wrong with it! I have to wait for the next one.😢
Excellent story, great characters, a fun read! There is only one thing wrong with it! I have to wait for the next one.😢
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