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What happens when your past and present collide?
More than ten years have passed since Luke was kidnapped and held captive by a crazed mad man. He still struggles to leave that period of his life behind. However, when he meets the new computer security expert his partner wants to hire, the memories of the young girl who stole his heart so many years ago suddenly come rushing back. Why is it this woman reminds him so much of the girl he needs to forget? The girl he shouldn’t be dreaming of. The girl who suffered because of him.
When a new case forces them to spend time together, Luke has no choice but to face his undeniable attraction to her. Can he stop seeing her as the constant reminder of his past mistakes and start seeing her for the beautiful, talented woman that she is?
What happens when your past and present collide?
More than ten years have passed since Luke was kidnapped and held captive by a crazed mad man. He still struggles to leave that period of his life behind. However, when he meets the new computer security expert his partner wants to hire, the memories of the young girl who stole his heart so many years ago suddenly come rushing back. Why is it this woman reminds him so much of the girl he needs to forget? The girl he shouldn’t be dreaming of. The girl who suffered because of him.
When a new case forces them to spend time together, Luke has no choice but to face his undeniable attraction to her. Can he stop seeing her as the constant reminder of his past mistakes and start seeing her for the beautiful, talented woman that she is?
- GenresRomance
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2019
32 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
Madison Quinn
5 books471 followersMadison is a mother to three energetic boys, a wife to an amazing man and works full time in the human services industry.
In her spare time (the little that exists) she loves to write.
Madison published her first novel in September 2018.
In her spare time (the little that exists) she loves to write.
Madison published her first novel in September 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 2, 2019
Absolutely loved Luke's story! My heart broke for him, for what we went through and the guilt he lived with for so long over what happened. I loved how protective he was when it came to Emily. The connection between the two characters was there almost from the beginning and it never left. You never doubted their feelings for one another.
This story gives a possible answer to the question of what happens when...
I disagree with another reviewer's comment about the unanswered questions. Personally, I'm glad the author didn't focus the entire book on when they were held captive. It was just enough time in my opinion. Additionally, I appreciated her warning about the adult content. While it wasn't explicit, there was enough that it could be considered a trigger for some. People should know that walking in to this story.
The reason Luke had to fight was clear. His captive said over and over again how he cost him money. There was no need to go into a detailed explanation. Speaking of the captive, if he came back later in the story wouldn't that have made Emily's computer skills pretty weak? She would have known he was released/paroled from prison, wouldn't she?
I don't know how that reviewer didn't feel Emily's emotions. They were written in every action throughout the book even in the chapters that weren't hers. Her decisions were based on her feelings for Luke.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I'm dying for Alec's story: dying to know what happened to his wife, more about Sophie and why he won't leave his house. Please say his story is next!!!
ARC received from the author.
This story gives a possible answer to the question of what happens when...
I disagree with another reviewer's comment about the unanswered questions. Personally, I'm glad the author didn't focus the entire book on when they were held captive. It was just enough time in my opinion. Additionally, I appreciated her warning about the adult content. While it wasn't explicit, there was enough that it could be considered a trigger for some. People should know that walking in to this story.
The reason Luke had to fight was clear. His captive said over and over again how he cost him money. There was no need to go into a detailed explanation. Speaking of the captive, if he came back later in the story wouldn't that have made Emily's computer skills pretty weak? She would have known he was released/paroled from prison, wouldn't she?
I don't know how that reviewer didn't feel Emily's emotions. They were written in every action throughout the book even in the chapters that weren't hers. Her decisions were based on her feelings for Luke.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I'm dying for Alec's story: dying to know what happened to his wife, more about Sophie and why he won't leave his house. Please say his story is next!!!
ARC received from the author.
January 28, 2019
Such an unusual story - great characters and great plot - the story could have been a little longer not for the plot but for the reader to stay longer with theses characters. I am really looking forward to the next books and I am glad I discovered this new to me author.
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January 17, 2019
Really good
This is a really good story to be honest I kinda liked the first half more than the second I was more invested in that part of the story the second half left me questioning quite a bit so that was a little disappointing but you know I didn't write the book and you can't have everything :)
All in all a good story well worth the read
Would like be my book boyfriend? Absolutely
This is a really good story to be honest I kinda liked the first half more than the second I was more invested in that part of the story the second half left me questioning quite a bit so that was a little disappointing but you know I didn't write the book and you can't have everything :)
All in all a good story well worth the read
Would like be my book boyfriend? Absolutely
February 20, 2019
The first book in the new Dark Water Security series is an emotionally gritty and thrilling romance with strong, captivating characters that draw readers in and refuse to let go. Luke and Emily have sizzling chemistry and an undeniable attraction that heats up the pages but both of them have emotional scars from their past which leads to lots of emotional turmoil and makes it hard to move forward. Working together on a case, forces them into close proximity which leads to hot passion and some revelations that also become obstacles to this couples relationship and readers really can’t help but become completely caught up in all the suspense and the entangled web of emotions that flow through this romance.
The story is steady to fast paced and full of intrigue which keeps the adrenaline pumping and readers glued to the pages but this story also has a traumatic beginning as it gives the beginnings of this couple’s story. The author does a great job of portraying that horror and the trauma of the story as she relays the right amount of details without going too far but some readers may be uncomfortable with it but there is no putting this book down once readers get started because they become enthralled with the story and have to know what happens.
The story is steady to fast paced and full of intrigue which keeps the adrenaline pumping and readers glued to the pages but this story also has a traumatic beginning as it gives the beginnings of this couple’s story. The author does a great job of portraying that horror and the trauma of the story as she relays the right amount of details without going too far but some readers may be uncomfortable with it but there is no putting this book down once readers get started because they become enthralled with the story and have to know what happens.
February 8, 2019
3 ½ Stars
Luke is the first book in the Dark Water Security Series by Madison Quinn. This is my first read from Ms. Quinn and just by the synopsis alone, I had pretty high expectations. It wasn’t the intensely dark romantic suspense that I had hoped for- but the story did pull me in and did keep me reading, so I wasn’t entirely disappointed. I would definitely read more of Ms. Quinn’s work in the future (and look forward to reading the rest of this series). The story does have a dark ‘theme’ at it’s core, but it’s written in such a way that the ‘darkness’ is alluded to and not fully detailed.
Luke Simpson, along with his friend Alec run a private security company that not only provides specialist security services for their clients- but they also run a ‘side’ business (which I won’t get into here because it may ruin the story for you)- that plays a big part in the overall storyline. He hasn’t had an easy life, and is tormented by his horrific experience of being kidnapped and held captive as a teenager. Ten years have not been long enough to erase it all from his memory- especially the memories of the young girl held captive with him. If it were not for her, he may not have survived his ordeal- but he carries a heavy burden of guilt and responsibility over her suffering. Not a day goes by that he doesn’t think of her- she’s never far from his mind. But, after finally escaping their hell, he’s never heard from her since.
So, what happens when the new computer specialist that Alec hires, reminds him of the past, of his ‘ray of light’ in the darkness, and of everything they suffered through together. What happens when they need to go undercover and pose as a couple? What happens when secrets are revealed? And what happens when danger comes calling? All these answers, and so much more can be found in the pages of this dramatic story.
I really did feel for the characters, and what they’d been through. My heart ached for them and I would have loved to hug them both. They have quite and intense chemistry that did steam up the screen of my kindle. The suspense was really well done, giving the storyline quite a bit of intensity. But, then it all kind of ’fizzled’ and I was a little disappointed by the final ‘revelation’ of the ‘Stalker’- it was a bit of a let down after such a great build up. I felt it needed to be more explosive/powerful to fit in with all the ‘leadup’. I feel that this issue really prevented the story from achieving its true, epic, potential.
I am intrigued by what Ms. Quinn will do in book #2, due out in March this year- so not too long to wait to find out!
Thank you, MS. Quinn!
Luke is the first book in the Dark Water Security Series by Madison Quinn. This is my first read from Ms. Quinn and just by the synopsis alone, I had pretty high expectations. It wasn’t the intensely dark romantic suspense that I had hoped for- but the story did pull me in and did keep me reading, so I wasn’t entirely disappointed. I would definitely read more of Ms. Quinn’s work in the future (and look forward to reading the rest of this series). The story does have a dark ‘theme’ at it’s core, but it’s written in such a way that the ‘darkness’ is alluded to and not fully detailed.
Luke Simpson, along with his friend Alec run a private security company that not only provides specialist security services for their clients- but they also run a ‘side’ business (which I won’t get into here because it may ruin the story for you)- that plays a big part in the overall storyline. He hasn’t had an easy life, and is tormented by his horrific experience of being kidnapped and held captive as a teenager. Ten years have not been long enough to erase it all from his memory- especially the memories of the young girl held captive with him. If it were not for her, he may not have survived his ordeal- but he carries a heavy burden of guilt and responsibility over her suffering. Not a day goes by that he doesn’t think of her- she’s never far from his mind. But, after finally escaping their hell, he’s never heard from her since.
So, what happens when the new computer specialist that Alec hires, reminds him of the past, of his ‘ray of light’ in the darkness, and of everything they suffered through together. What happens when they need to go undercover and pose as a couple? What happens when secrets are revealed? And what happens when danger comes calling? All these answers, and so much more can be found in the pages of this dramatic story.
I really did feel for the characters, and what they’d been through. My heart ached for them and I would have loved to hug them both. They have quite and intense chemistry that did steam up the screen of my kindle. The suspense was really well done, giving the storyline quite a bit of intensity. But, then it all kind of ’fizzled’ and I was a little disappointed by the final ‘revelation’ of the ‘Stalker’- it was a bit of a let down after such a great build up. I felt it needed to be more explosive/powerful to fit in with all the ‘leadup’. I feel that this issue really prevented the story from achieving its true, epic, potential.
I am intrigued by what Ms. Quinn will do in book #2, due out in March this year- so not too long to wait to find out!
Thank you, MS. Quinn!
February 8, 2019
This is the first book I have read from this author and she blew me away. I absolutely love dark romance but this talented author exceeded all my expectations. This is the first book of the Dark Water Security series and it was a perfect start. I was hooked on the very first page. You can’t help but to fall in love with these brave characters. It only took me a few hours to devour this incredible book.
Luke has been captive for months now. He knows there is no way of getting out of here. Luke is told to fight but a crazy man and if he doesn’t win he gets punished. One night this crazy man brings home a teen girl. Luke is mesmerized by her beauty. He knows one thing he needs to protect her. Luke and Em get to know each other. They make a plan to escape.
It is now ten years after they got free. Luke still has demons he faces from his teenage nightmare. He run a very well know security business. Luke is given a case that he needs to solve. He is told that they need help and his friend recommends Emily to join the case. Luke will never forget his Em but this woman is doing things to him he has never felt before. Will Luke ever see his Em again or will she fade away from his memory. Will he solve this case or will it become cold?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, suspense, and mystery. This book gave me all the feels from utter terror to pure joy. You can’t help but to fall in love with these unforgettable characters. Luke is very brave and he has a heart of gold. He loves his job but he still has nightmares about what happened to him as a teen. Luke is one of my favorite male characters of this year. He stole my heart the way he treats Em. Emily is also very strong and knows what she wants. She has some dark secrets of her own that could make or break the relationship with Luke. This talented author will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. I loved the ending it so much it brought tears to my eyes. I can’t wait to meet the rest of this amazing team.
Luke has been captive for months now. He knows there is no way of getting out of here. Luke is told to fight but a crazy man and if he doesn’t win he gets punished. One night this crazy man brings home a teen girl. Luke is mesmerized by her beauty. He knows one thing he needs to protect her. Luke and Em get to know each other. They make a plan to escape.
It is now ten years after they got free. Luke still has demons he faces from his teenage nightmare. He run a very well know security business. Luke is given a case that he needs to solve. He is told that they need help and his friend recommends Emily to join the case. Luke will never forget his Em but this woman is doing things to him he has never felt before. Will Luke ever see his Em again or will she fade away from his memory. Will he solve this case or will it become cold?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, suspense, and mystery. This book gave me all the feels from utter terror to pure joy. You can’t help but to fall in love with these unforgettable characters. Luke is very brave and he has a heart of gold. He loves his job but he still has nightmares about what happened to him as a teen. Luke is one of my favorite male characters of this year. He stole my heart the way he treats Em. Emily is also very strong and knows what she wants. She has some dark secrets of her own that could make or break the relationship with Luke. This talented author will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. I loved the ending it so much it brought tears to my eyes. I can’t wait to meet the rest of this amazing team.
January 11, 2019
I wanted to reach in and give Luke the biggest hug and never let go. While both he and Emily endured a nightmare of a situation, he seemed to have it rough all the way around. He proved to be such a fighter in more ways than one to overcome the difficult hand he was dealt and made it into something where he was helping others through Dark Water Security.
Emily also had me wanting to hug her too. She also used her experience as motivation to help others so that they maybe wouldn't have to endure what she did.
The other characters introduced have just enough about them that have me so interested in their stories but it didn't take away from Luke and Emily. They were definitely in the spotlight.
I can't wait for more from the Dark Water Security Series.
Emily also had me wanting to hug her too. She also used her experience as motivation to help others so that they maybe wouldn't have to endure what she did.
The other characters introduced have just enough about them that have me so interested in their stories but it didn't take away from Luke and Emily. They were definitely in the spotlight.
I can't wait for more from the Dark Water Security Series.
December 30, 2018
I just finished reading Luke and absolutely loved it. It started off with a storyline that is dark so I wasn’t sure as to where it would go. Through the dark beginning a trust, friendship and love developed between teenagers Luke and Emily. What they endured together made them who they are as adults. As the story advances they meet again though unknown by Luke but he is so drawn to her. That 1st love was pulling him to her not even knowing it was his Emily. This book has some dark content early on but develops int a story about endurance and love. There is angst, suspense, love and action. Just a great read!
January 1, 2019
This is an amazing read!!! If you have read Madison's other 2 books this one has a darker story but it isn't too dark. At the beginning my heart broke for Luke, and I am glad he had Emily. It then fast forwards 10 years and they still had just a strong of a connection!! Be prepared this is a book you will not want to put down!!! I can't wait to see what Madison has in store for her readers!!!!
December 30, 2018
I received this book as an ARC and it was fantastic! Madison Quinn this is your best one yet! The story line between Emily and Luke had me hooked from the beginning. Luke took over the role of protector for her From the start and it carried throughout the entire story. Their connection was instantly strong and was still strong after being apart for 10 years. Can’t wait until the next book! Well Done!
January 2, 2019
I was honored to receive an ARC of this book from the author.
This is different from The Arrangement Series by Madison Quinn. The beginning starts off a little dark, but thankfully it doesn't last long. I think it should be noted that while it starts dark, this is NOT a dark romance by any means. It's only dark in the sense of what Luke and Em went through.
Their love story is not an easy one, but then again given what they went through I wouldn't expect it to be. I always wondered the long term effects something like this could have on someone and how they could ever learn to trust and love again. This story gives us that and so much more.
Can't wait to read more from this upcoming author!!
This is different from The Arrangement Series by Madison Quinn. The beginning starts off a little dark, but thankfully it doesn't last long. I think it should be noted that while it starts dark, this is NOT a dark romance by any means. It's only dark in the sense of what Luke and Em went through.
Their love story is not an easy one, but then again given what they went through I wouldn't expect it to be. I always wondered the long term effects something like this could have on someone and how they could ever learn to trust and love again. This story gives us that and so much more.
Can't wait to read more from this upcoming author!!
February 13, 2019
Luke is book one in the Dark Water Security series by Madison Quinn. A new and exciting author and story I could not wait to disappear into.
Luke survived a kidnapping, but bears the scars from the trauma. Living his life is a battle that he faces every day. It was heartbreaking to read his story. The emotions cut me to the core. Gripped by bravery, the struggle, the intensity that was this mesmirising character. It was a beautifully moving experience. Dark and light, this story left me emotionally spent, but utterly fulfilled. Suspense, drama, soul searching, passion, violence and happiness all bundled together to create an epic read. 5 stars.
Luke survived a kidnapping, but bears the scars from the trauma. Living his life is a battle that he faces every day. It was heartbreaking to read his story. The emotions cut me to the core. Gripped by bravery, the struggle, the intensity that was this mesmirising character. It was a beautifully moving experience. Dark and light, this story left me emotionally spent, but utterly fulfilled. Suspense, drama, soul searching, passion, violence and happiness all bundled together to create an epic read. 5 stars.
December 31, 2018
Loved it! A beautiful story about trust, friendship and love in a horrific environment. How they found each other again and never let go of the profound love and trust. Truly enjoyed could not put it down!
December 29, 2018
I read this book in one sitting. It was very well written, just what I expect from this author. Luke and Emily are hot together even though the pair met in an awful circumstance. I hope this is just the first in a series as I think that there is a lot that can be sine with these characters as well as others in the book. Would highly recommend!
January 3, 2019
I absolutely loved this story! It was a very good book about friendship and love even after going through something so terrible as what Luke and Emily went through. The trust that they have in each other is amazing and I truly enjoyed their story. Makes me wish there was more to read! The plot is really good and once you start reading it you will not be able to put it down until it is done. Cannot wait to read the next book! Well done!
January 8, 2019
Well it's a hell of a book to kick off 2019 that's for sure.
Luke starts off in a situation none of us would ever want to be in and I applaud Quinn on how she wrote and approached this particular subject. From the beginning we get a feel of Luke and his personality and how he deals with difficult situations, add Emily to the mix and we see just how much he's willing to put himself on the line. I feel like I can't say much more about the beginning without giving to much away.
When the book hits the time jump you can see Lukes drive and how he's coped with what happened in his teen years and when he gets an unexpected shock he isn't sure how to take it and it's here that I felt my heart pull for him.
Emily is very much an everyday girl who ended up being in the wrong place at the wrong time but used that to her advantage in her later years. She dealt with things much like I feel like I would of if I was in the situation. You see her strength and fragility mixed together but you also see her passion for her line of work that allows her to feel like she's making a difference.
I have a few unanswered questions from this book but I think I'd rather keep them unknown and every time I hope I get a different answer. I can't wait to read more of this series and any future planned books that Madison Quinn decides to share.
***An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review***
Luke starts off in a situation none of us would ever want to be in and I applaud Quinn on how she wrote and approached this particular subject. From the beginning we get a feel of Luke and his personality and how he deals with difficult situations, add Emily to the mix and we see just how much he's willing to put himself on the line. I feel like I can't say much more about the beginning without giving to much away.
When the book hits the time jump you can see Lukes drive and how he's coped with what happened in his teen years and when he gets an unexpected shock he isn't sure how to take it and it's here that I felt my heart pull for him.
Emily is very much an everyday girl who ended up being in the wrong place at the wrong time but used that to her advantage in her later years. She dealt with things much like I feel like I would of if I was in the situation. You see her strength and fragility mixed together but you also see her passion for her line of work that allows her to feel like she's making a difference.
I have a few unanswered questions from this book but I think I'd rather keep them unknown and every time I hope I get a different answer. I can't wait to read more of this series and any future planned books that Madison Quinn decides to share.
***An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review***
January 8, 2019
An exceptionally well told dark, romance that you can't put down. This is the story of Luke and Emily kidnapped and tortured for more than 7 months when they were both teenagers. Escaping and learning to move past this dark time has been the focus for each of them over the last ten years. But one day their paths cross again when Emily begins working for Luke, he finds himself struggling to accept that Emily is quite what she first seems. As a hidden danger surfaces Luke might just be willing to risk it all for a chance at happiness with Emily. A dark, strong, second chance romance that will keep you reading well past bedtime.
January 8, 2019
Wow!! This story started out as deep and very troubling and ended in a most amazing love story! The characters are very relateable and believeable. I didn't want to put it down. My heart hurt for them and then cried for them. It's a must read! Madison Quinn writes so that you feel and think as the characters of her stories. I can't wait to see where Dark Water Security goes next!
February 14, 2019
Luke (Dark Water Security Series Book 1) by Madison Quinn is one heart stomping read. OMG this story broke my heart and had the tears flowing. This is my first book by Ms Madison and I am absolutely blown away. Warning this story may cause triggers. I fell in love with our main characters Luke and Emily and wanted to take out the person who hurt them. This story is dark and oh so raw and my god I can not stop thinking about it, which just goes to show it is worth the read. It is a highly emotional read full of pain and suffering, angst and terror, deceit and horrors you can only dream about. It is well written and the wonderful characters are well developed and multi layered. I read this book in one sitting, I was so invested and there is so much going on in this book and there was never a time that I wanted to put it down. There was no way and I mean no way that I could put it down until I knew the outcome. I also had to remember to breathe, just this simple action was sometimes hard to remember as I was so emotionally into this book.
I will not tell you about the story, I will let you discover it all on your own but as I said before it may cause triggers to some people.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series and see what happens next.
I will not tell you about the story, I will let you discover it all on your own but as I said before it may cause triggers to some people.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series and see what happens next.
January 5, 2019
The book is a good romantic suspense read. The story has a good story line, and the story is a well written read. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. The story is about trust, friendship, and love in a bad environment read.
February 6, 2019
Luke (Dark Water Security Series Book 1) by Madison Quinn was an raw emotional book that will get you right in the heart.
My first read by this author, and well, I'm going to be honest this book could have been much more. Now the writing isn't bad, it was pretty solid and had a nice flow. Told in dual POV we get inside both Luke's and Emily's head. Something I've always loved when dealing with darker, psychological books. I did kind of prefer Luke's voice, I found him to have more emotions, and witnessing his change mentally from that first chapter onwards, is something to give this book praise for. His character development was exponential, and it really stole the show.
Now let's get into why I have mixed feelings about this book. The beginning is dark, heart clenching and nightmare fuel. It isn't for the faint of heart and there are scenes that may be triggering to some readers. Since the synopsis gives it away this isn't a spoiler. Luke plans an escape, they get out, and, I'm not going to say anymore on that, cause that will be a spoiler. So after this escape the books slows down, and after such an intense opening, that sudden pace change throws off your reading momentum. Looking back now, it's not that everything after was dull, it was just made that way because of the way the opening is written. Also it takes way too long for Luke and Emily to get their shit/feelings together, again throwing off the pace.
This book read like two in one, and I think that's what it should be. The opening should be its own book, like a novella, then the events afterwards should be its own story. I believe doing that will give more focus to Luke and Emily, as well as the two other subplots, that didn't get as much attention, or hype because of that brutal opening.
Overall this is a good book, it has amazing character development, detail and info placement. It will draw you in, that opening alone will keep you reading just so you feel at ease with Luke and Emily. It's a need, a desperate need to know that they'll be okay, that they're going to be okay. You'll get attached to them, and even with the pacing issues you will still find yourself engrossed in this book.
So please take my high recommendation and my stamp of approval, that you will be holding your breath, flipping the pages, and have you wishing you could save them.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
My first read by this author, and well, I'm going to be honest this book could have been much more. Now the writing isn't bad, it was pretty solid and had a nice flow. Told in dual POV we get inside both Luke's and Emily's head. Something I've always loved when dealing with darker, psychological books. I did kind of prefer Luke's voice, I found him to have more emotions, and witnessing his change mentally from that first chapter onwards, is something to give this book praise for. His character development was exponential, and it really stole the show.
Now let's get into why I have mixed feelings about this book. The beginning is dark, heart clenching and nightmare fuel. It isn't for the faint of heart and there are scenes that may be triggering to some readers. Since the synopsis gives it away this isn't a spoiler. Luke plans an escape, they get out, and, I'm not going to say anymore on that, cause that will be a spoiler. So after this escape the books slows down, and after such an intense opening, that sudden pace change throws off your reading momentum. Looking back now, it's not that everything after was dull, it was just made that way because of the way the opening is written. Also it takes way too long for Luke and Emily to get their shit/feelings together, again throwing off the pace.
This book read like two in one, and I think that's what it should be. The opening should be its own book, like a novella, then the events afterwards should be its own story. I believe doing that will give more focus to Luke and Emily, as well as the two other subplots, that didn't get as much attention, or hype because of that brutal opening.
Overall this is a good book, it has amazing character development, detail and info placement. It will draw you in, that opening alone will keep you reading just so you feel at ease with Luke and Emily. It's a need, a desperate need to know that they'll be okay, that they're going to be okay. You'll get attached to them, and even with the pacing issues you will still find yourself engrossed in this book.
So please take my high recommendation and my stamp of approval, that you will be holding your breath, flipping the pages, and have you wishing you could save them.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
January 4, 2019
Amazing story of strength!!
We meet Luke as he wants to give up. He has to, literally, fight to survive or suffer horrible unspeakable punishments from a sick man who had kidnapped him and held him hostage in his dark and dingy basement. He feels he has nothing to fight for anymore until one night after he lost a fight. He wakes to a horrible site, his captor had brought a young girl, Emily, into the basement. Luke is now responsible for her and if he loses a fight, she gets punished.
Luke has to keep her safe and will do anything he has to.
Emily is scared and does not know what to do, but knows that she feels safe with Luke and wants to do what she needs to help him
After one horrendous night, they make a plan to escape, which to their surprise works.
10 years later we find they had parted ways and have had no contact since they made it to safety.
Luke and his friend Alec have started a security business and they use this business to help save kids and families from a fate similar to Lukes.
Emily comes to the business to interview for their IT position, but Luke does not realize she is the same girl due to hair and name changes.
They go in with their work lives, working very close until they have to goto a resort to gather information together.
This trip changes everything and after, Luke finds out who she is and that she has known who Luke was all along.
Watch ad their past lives and current lives come together and they nerfs to find out how to move on.
We meet Luke as he wants to give up. He has to, literally, fight to survive or suffer horrible unspeakable punishments from a sick man who had kidnapped him and held him hostage in his dark and dingy basement. He feels he has nothing to fight for anymore until one night after he lost a fight. He wakes to a horrible site, his captor had brought a young girl, Emily, into the basement. Luke is now responsible for her and if he loses a fight, she gets punished.
Luke has to keep her safe and will do anything he has to.
Emily is scared and does not know what to do, but knows that she feels safe with Luke and wants to do what she needs to help him
After one horrendous night, they make a plan to escape, which to their surprise works.
10 years later we find they had parted ways and have had no contact since they made it to safety.
Luke and his friend Alec have started a security business and they use this business to help save kids and families from a fate similar to Lukes.
Emily comes to the business to interview for their IT position, but Luke does not realize she is the same girl due to hair and name changes.
They go in with their work lives, working very close until they have to goto a resort to gather information together.
This trip changes everything and after, Luke finds out who she is and that she has known who Luke was all along.
Watch ad their past lives and current lives come together and they nerfs to find out how to move on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2019
Luke was a great 5 star read and book one of the Dark Water Security.
We start the story with Luke at a young age being tormented and beaten. If he doesn’t win fights his beatings get worse. My heart broke for what he went through. When his tormentor doesn’t think the beatings are enough he brings in someone else that will be beaten in his place. This is when he meets Em. They develop a close friendship and love for each other.
What if I’m tired of surviving?
After their escape we jump ahead a few years. Luke is now a partner in Dark Water Security. He thinks about Em all the time, wondering where she is, if she has a family, etc.. When he meets a friend of his partner that will be assisting in some cases, he is taken back to memories of Em. Could she be his Emily? Can they find the love they once had?
Emily was a fighter just as much as Luke was, they were meant to be brought together to help each other get through this terrible ordeal. Both of them used their experience to help others instead of going down a dark hole. The secondary characters added a great element to the story. I will warn that there are some scenes that may be triggers for some. Madison Quinn does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
February 11, 2019
This was quite the introduction to a new author for me. I love a good dark romance. Often if it will hint at it in the blurb I won’t even read the whole synopsis I will just dive in and find out how it was later. I just have a thing for a tragic story with a glimmer of love shining through. Now, Luke was a bit of a different array. I will say it had a lot of the things that I would want and do look for in a dark and twisty read, it just so very often they fell short. The thing is the storyline was catchy and unique, it had you on the edge of your seat having to know what was going to happen regardless of how non climatic it got. Thus I found myself needing to finish the book and would be back to find out what will come next in the series. I do think there is room to grow in the writing as well so I look forward to seeing if that is present as well.
The catch that had me is this was like reading an episode of 20/20. Luke was abducted and tortured as young boy. What fans of this genre here want are merely teased I believe which is where this book fell short, but then he is later in life met again with the girl he was was held captive with comes into his life as and adult again. Things are of course set for some intense drama and storylines. Like I said I look forward to seeing what will come in the next book that should be out here shortly actually, March of 2019. I think I will even go give this one a re-read and see if I missed a thing or two before then!
The catch that had me is this was like reading an episode of 20/20. Luke was abducted and tortured as young boy. What fans of this genre here want are merely teased I believe which is where this book fell short, but then he is later in life met again with the girl he was was held captive with comes into his life as and adult again. Things are of course set for some intense drama and storylines. Like I said I look forward to seeing what will come in the next book that should be out here shortly actually, March of 2019. I think I will even go give this one a re-read and see if I missed a thing or two before then!
February 12, 2019
Luke (Dark Water Security #1)
By Madison Quinn
5 stars
Luke was an amazing read! When I first read the blurb I will admit I wasn’t quite sure but the author really has written a brilliant story. There was a lot going on in the story which meant that I couldn’t wait to turn the pages to see what was going to happen.
I adore Luke! I actually wanted to be able to give him the biggest hug! I can’t imagine everything that he had been through and I could feel the guilt that he felt also. I loved reading about the connection between him and Emily – there was just something there between them that felt so genuine and sincere. I think they had something that would tie them together forever; they understood each other and everything that they had been through. I desperately wanted them both to find their happily ever after it’s been a while since two characters have found their way into my heart like these two have done.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I was very impressed with her writing, it was engaging and captivating. The plot was good and the pace and flow of the story brilliant. I highly recommend this 5 star book!
By Madison Quinn
5 stars
Luke was an amazing read! When I first read the blurb I will admit I wasn’t quite sure but the author really has written a brilliant story. There was a lot going on in the story which meant that I couldn’t wait to turn the pages to see what was going to happen.
I adore Luke! I actually wanted to be able to give him the biggest hug! I can’t imagine everything that he had been through and I could feel the guilt that he felt also. I loved reading about the connection between him and Emily – there was just something there between them that felt so genuine and sincere. I think they had something that would tie them together forever; they understood each other and everything that they had been through. I desperately wanted them both to find their happily ever after it’s been a while since two characters have found their way into my heart like these two have done.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I was very impressed with her writing, it was engaging and captivating. The plot was good and the pace and flow of the story brilliant. I highly recommend this 5 star book!
January 3, 2019
Luke is one of those books that you cannot put down once you start reading it. I am glad for the warning about the dark beginning, but it was needed and just the right amount information. We did not need to know all of the details of what happened when Luke and Emily were teenagers. It was from this dark start that a lifelong bond was created, starting off as friendship and then to love. What they underwent together assisted with who they became as adults. Luke proved in more than one way how much of a fighter he is in order to prevail over the tough hand he was dealt. Using the strengths, he has to assist when others needed help via the Dark Water Security.
You will go through several emotions (angst, love, suspense, and action) while reading this story but that is why it is hard to put down. I for one cannot wait for the next book in the Dark Water Security series. Thank you, Madison, for another excellent book for my library. Please do not make us wait long for the next book in this series.
You will go through several emotions (angst, love, suspense, and action) while reading this story but that is why it is hard to put down. I for one cannot wait for the next book in the Dark Water Security series. Thank you, Madison, for another excellent book for my library. Please do not make us wait long for the next book in this series.
February 7, 2019
Luke is the first book in the Dark Water Security series by Madison Quinn. If this first book is anything to go by, then this is going to be one hell of a series.
This book had me hooked from the very beginning. It dragged every single emotion out of me leaving me speechless at times and in tears at other times. Have some tissues handy when reading this book, particularly during the first few chapters which are harrowing but the story is told so well. The author does a fantastic job of telling the story, building the characters and taking you on a roller coaster journey through every emotion possible.
10 years previously, teenage Luke was kidnapped by a maniac who locked him in the basement only allowing him out of the basement to train in a gym for an hour a day and to take part in fights. Luke’s world is turned further upside down when his brutal captor also takes teenage Emily hostage. Thrown together in the basement Luke and Emily grow very close and rely on each other for survival.
Back to the present time and Luke’s security firm hire a computer whizz called Emily. This brings everything crashing back to Luke and he can’t stop thinking of the Emily he was imprisoned with and constantly compares the 2. As he becomes more attracted to Emily, can he accept her for who she is and not just because she reminds him of his first love?
This is most definitely a book that I will read again and I look forward to seeing what else Madison Quinn comes up with in the rest of this series.
This book had me hooked from the very beginning. It dragged every single emotion out of me leaving me speechless at times and in tears at other times. Have some tissues handy when reading this book, particularly during the first few chapters which are harrowing but the story is told so well. The author does a fantastic job of telling the story, building the characters and taking you on a roller coaster journey through every emotion possible.
10 years previously, teenage Luke was kidnapped by a maniac who locked him in the basement only allowing him out of the basement to train in a gym for an hour a day and to take part in fights. Luke’s world is turned further upside down when his brutal captor also takes teenage Emily hostage. Thrown together in the basement Luke and Emily grow very close and rely on each other for survival.
Back to the present time and Luke’s security firm hire a computer whizz called Emily. This brings everything crashing back to Luke and he can’t stop thinking of the Emily he was imprisoned with and constantly compares the 2. As he becomes more attracted to Emily, can he accept her for who she is and not just because she reminds him of his first love?
This is most definitely a book that I will read again and I look forward to seeing what else Madison Quinn comes up with in the rest of this series.
February 15, 2019
Luke is the first book in the Dark Water Security series. This book can be read as a standalone. There is some subject matter that may be a trigger for some readers.
I got hooked from the beginning. Even though the story is a bit predictable, it is still entertaining; and I read it in a couple of hours because I couldn’t put it down. The characters are well written and you really find yourself empathizing with Luke’s character. After everything he goes through, he still finds a way to be the person for others that he needed when he was young.
The only thing that could have made this even better was a bit of a stronger ending.
I got hooked from the beginning. Even though the story is a bit predictable, it is still entertaining; and I read it in a couple of hours because I couldn’t put it down. The characters are well written and you really find yourself empathizing with Luke’s character. After everything he goes through, he still finds a way to be the person for others that he needed when he was young.
The only thing that could have made this even better was a bit of a stronger ending.
February 14, 2019
Luke by Madison Quinn is the first book in the Dark Water Security Series. This book covers some fairly dark themes and may not be suitable for all readers. However, if you are ok with this then you really should give this book a try!
This book was such an emotional one, it was deep and gritty and really knows how to sink it’s claws into you. The opening throws you straight in, leaving you gasping to keep up with everything going on. You know immediately that you are in for a serious ride.
As the first book I have read by this author it has introduced me to someone I will definitely have to check out in more depth.
This book was such an emotional one, it was deep and gritty and really knows how to sink it’s claws into you. The opening throws you straight in, leaving you gasping to keep up with everything going on. You know immediately that you are in for a serious ride.
As the first book I have read by this author it has introduced me to someone I will definitely have to check out in more depth.
February 13, 2019
Luke (Dark Water Security Series Book 1) by Madison Quinn is a romance with some dark topics and suspense. The story follows Luke and Emily. Luke has a tragic past and the two work together. Can they keep their feelings to the side while working?
I liked the concept and the overall story that was presented. There were some shortcomings in the story where I felt I was missing something or that a part had been skipped. Overall, I enjoyed the characters and story and will be coming back to read the next in the series. I hope that the series develops both in plot but in execution. This is a good read and I do recommend it if you like a suspense with romance. Be warned there are some sensitive subjects that are part of the story but they are not used gratuitously.
I liked the concept and the overall story that was presented. There were some shortcomings in the story where I felt I was missing something or that a part had been skipped. Overall, I enjoyed the characters and story and will be coming back to read the next in the series. I hope that the series develops both in plot but in execution. This is a good read and I do recommend it if you like a suspense with romance. Be warned there are some sensitive subjects that are part of the story but they are not used gratuitously.
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