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Cliffside Bay #6
Missed: Rafael and Lisa
Return to the beloved beach town of Cliffside Bay, where USA Today bestseller Tess Thompson spins another emotional, intriguing tale about overcoming adversity and finding strength in love in this standalone story about Lisa and Rafael. After years of struggling as a starving actor, Lisa Perry's dreams are finally coming true. Splitting her time between Los Angeles and Cliffside Bay, the young beauty has a successful television miniseries, her first movie role, and quality time with her best friends Maggie and Pepper. Everything is coming up roses until a single tragic moment changes Lisa forever. Haunted by unshakable memories and near-crippling anxiety, Lisa must face a publicity tour full of crowds and interviews in order to move her budding career forward. And with the help of Rafael Soto, the head of security for Brody and Kara Mullen, she finally begins to relax. Though the pair are as different as night and day, something about her temporary bodyguard soothes the young actress, and soon their relationship turns from professional to passionate. But what neither anticipates is that despite the obvious threats to a beautiful ingenue, it's actually her protector who stands in harm's way. Will Lisa and Rafael be able to face the danger awaiting him together, or are they destined to accept yet another tragedy they can't stop? USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson welcomes you back to Cliffside Bay to explore the rich, heartwarming stories of the characters who brightened the original five novels in the series. Each book in the Cliffside Bay Series is intended to be read and enjoyed as a sweet standalone, but for maximum enjoyment read this binge-worthy series in order.
322 pages, Paperback
First published March 24, 2019
591 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
119 books1,729 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
July 11, 2020
Very cute start to the second part of the series with all new characters. ;)
April 2, 2019
Seemingly worlds apart, Lisa Perry and Rafael Soto have more in common than they ever could have imagined.
Lisa Perry’s dreams are finally coming true. After years as a struggling actor, she has a hit tv show and her first movie coming out. She’s also staying in Cliffside Bay with her two best friends Pepper and Maggie. The world is at her feet until a tragic event changes the way she’ll see the world forever.
All Rafael Soto, ex Seal and cop turned personal bodyguard wants out of life is to get his Mamma and her best friend out of their drug infested neighborhood and to Cliffside Bay. So much so that he is willing to sink every dime he has into flipping an old apartment building there so they have someplace to live . He knows love isn’t for him . . .he’s seen too much overseas to ever find his own HEA, but he’ll settle for happy for now . . . until his next assignment has him wanting so much more.
Suffering from PTSD, Lisa needs someone to go on her publicity tour with her to make her feel safe as she navigates the crowds and interviews she’ll be facing and Rafael is tasked with the job. It’s a bit awkward, as both Lisa and Rafael are harboring crushes on one another, both thinking they aren’t good enough for the other. But, the more time they spend together, they more they both start to fall in love, quick and hard! But what happens when their pasts bring baggage that threatens not only their self esteems and relationships, but also their lives?
I have to admit, I was a bit nervous jumping into this new section of the Cliffside Bay series, as I totally fell in love with the group of friends known as the Dogs and their women in the original books, but Tess Thompson seamlessly introduces readers to the Wolves and a whole new set of happy ever afters just waiting to happen!
I really loved Lisa. She’s such a genuine and feeling character that has not let her newfound fame change her in any way. She’s sweet and caring and suffers from low self esteem, making her constantly doubt and worry that she is good enough. She has so much inner strength that she doesn’t even realize she has, that it’s fabulous to see how Rafael nurtures that as he helps her deal with her PTSD.
Rafael is also a wonderful character. He harbors tremendous guilt for the things he did and saw while in the military and police force and doesn’t feel worthy of Lisa at all. So much so, that he almost ruins their relationship before it has a chance to begin. But, once he starts battling his own demons and gives in, he is everything that Lisa needs to keep her steady as she navigates her new reality, and she is everything he needs to feel loved and worthy.
This was truly a sweet story as this couple fights to win their HEA. It’s definitely a page turner as well, as danger is lurking and it’s not what you expect. After reading Missed, I am super excited to continue to get to know the Wolves as a new cast of characters . . .especially since Tess gave readers quite a few glimpses of the Dogs and their wives. I really can’t wait for more from this series! 5 stars!
Lisa Perry’s dreams are finally coming true. After years as a struggling actor, she has a hit tv show and her first movie coming out. She’s also staying in Cliffside Bay with her two best friends Pepper and Maggie. The world is at her feet until a tragic event changes the way she’ll see the world forever.
All Rafael Soto, ex Seal and cop turned personal bodyguard wants out of life is to get his Mamma and her best friend out of their drug infested neighborhood and to Cliffside Bay. So much so that he is willing to sink every dime he has into flipping an old apartment building there so they have someplace to live . He knows love isn’t for him . . .he’s seen too much overseas to ever find his own HEA, but he’ll settle for happy for now . . . until his next assignment has him wanting so much more.
Suffering from PTSD, Lisa needs someone to go on her publicity tour with her to make her feel safe as she navigates the crowds and interviews she’ll be facing and Rafael is tasked with the job. It’s a bit awkward, as both Lisa and Rafael are harboring crushes on one another, both thinking they aren’t good enough for the other. But, the more time they spend together, they more they both start to fall in love, quick and hard! But what happens when their pasts bring baggage that threatens not only their self esteems and relationships, but also their lives?
I have to admit, I was a bit nervous jumping into this new section of the Cliffside Bay series, as I totally fell in love with the group of friends known as the Dogs and their women in the original books, but Tess Thompson seamlessly introduces readers to the Wolves and a whole new set of happy ever afters just waiting to happen!
I really loved Lisa. She’s such a genuine and feeling character that has not let her newfound fame change her in any way. She’s sweet and caring and suffers from low self esteem, making her constantly doubt and worry that she is good enough. She has so much inner strength that she doesn’t even realize she has, that it’s fabulous to see how Rafael nurtures that as he helps her deal with her PTSD.
Rafael is also a wonderful character. He harbors tremendous guilt for the things he did and saw while in the military and police force and doesn’t feel worthy of Lisa at all. So much so, that he almost ruins their relationship before it has a chance to begin. But, once he starts battling his own demons and gives in, he is everything that Lisa needs to keep her steady as she navigates her new reality, and she is everything he needs to feel loved and worthy.
This was truly a sweet story as this couple fights to win their HEA. It’s definitely a page turner as well, as danger is lurking and it’s not what you expect. After reading Missed, I am super excited to continue to get to know the Wolves as a new cast of characters . . .especially since Tess gave readers quite a few glimpses of the Dogs and their wives. I really can’t wait for more from this series! 5 stars!
March 22, 2019
I have enjoyed each of the Cliffside Bay books so much but do believe this is my favorite. It’s filled with so many emotions. Each one touches you deeply. From a horrific shooting that is another reason assault weapons should be banned to PTSD suffered by a war hero who saw some horrible things and lived through some horrible things.
Rafael and Lisa are as different as night and day but at the same time want the same things out of life. To be happy and find their true soul touching loves. They are destine to be together. That was obvious from the last book. Life has a way of putting people together who are destine I believe. It’s a wonderful feeling to be loved so deeply that you feel some higher being may have had a hand in it.
What Tess Thompson has done with this book it truly amazing. She takes two people who are hurt very deeply by things in life and puts them together in a way that only has one ending.... true love. It’s such a touching story. It’s also very sad in places. Some of the characters I did not like. One being Lisa’s mother. She reminded me of someone I know and I felt so bad for her. Her mother seemed to only like Lisa’s twin brother. Or to think he was the “golden” boy while blaming Lisa for almost losing him. What kind of mother does that? A bad bad no good no feeling one in my opinion. I just did not like her. I do like her bother though and feel so bad for him.
All the new boys in this spin off of the Cliffside Bay series are in for a very good time. I love the way this author has taken new people and brought them in to find the same kind of life/loves that the others, the “dogs” have. I look forward to reading the rest of this series so much.
It’s going to touch your heart and your soul in ways you may not expect trust me. This is the best series I have ever read and it’s only getting better with each book.
Thank you for this wonderful book. It’s a huge 5 stars and a high, very high, recommend from me.
I received an ARC of this for my honest review with no compensation at all. Just my honest review.
Rafael and Lisa are as different as night and day but at the same time want the same things out of life. To be happy and find their true soul touching loves. They are destine to be together. That was obvious from the last book. Life has a way of putting people together who are destine I believe. It’s a wonderful feeling to be loved so deeply that you feel some higher being may have had a hand in it.
What Tess Thompson has done with this book it truly amazing. She takes two people who are hurt very deeply by things in life and puts them together in a way that only has one ending.... true love. It’s such a touching story. It’s also very sad in places. Some of the characters I did not like. One being Lisa’s mother. She reminded me of someone I know and I felt so bad for her. Her mother seemed to only like Lisa’s twin brother. Or to think he was the “golden” boy while blaming Lisa for almost losing him. What kind of mother does that? A bad bad no good no feeling one in my opinion. I just did not like her. I do like her bother though and feel so bad for him.
All the new boys in this spin off of the Cliffside Bay series are in for a very good time. I love the way this author has taken new people and brought them in to find the same kind of life/loves that the others, the “dogs” have. I look forward to reading the rest of this series so much.
It’s going to touch your heart and your soul in ways you may not expect trust me. This is the best series I have ever read and it’s only getting better with each book.
Thank you for this wonderful book. It’s a huge 5 stars and a high, very high, recommend from me.
I received an ARC of this for my honest review with no compensation at all. Just my honest review.
March 24, 2019
Missed is the newest installment of The Cliffside Bay series , it’s also the first book in a spin-off series.
We have met the Dogs , now we meet the Wolves ! ( swooning now)
This is Rafael and Lisa’s journey to each other and their own happily ever after.
Lisa is on the brink of fame, all her years of struggle and waiting are finally paying off, she’s the new IT Hollywood girl .
Rafael has wanted her since he first met her, however he feels he can never be enough for her.
I love Cliffside Bay, it’s like coming “home” to familiar people and places.
Tess Thompson writes about love and deep bonds that tie lovers and friendships and her readers together!
We have met the Dogs , now we meet the Wolves ! ( swooning now)
This is Rafael and Lisa’s journey to each other and their own happily ever after.
Lisa is on the brink of fame, all her years of struggle and waiting are finally paying off, she’s the new IT Hollywood girl .
Rafael has wanted her since he first met her, however he feels he can never be enough for her.
I love Cliffside Bay, it’s like coming “home” to familiar people and places.
Tess Thompson writes about love and deep bonds that tie lovers and friendships and her readers together!
March 17, 2019
I was so excited to take a trip back to Cliffside Bay in Missed! I got to meet some new character friends and spend some time with old friends, too! Picking up this novel gave me the feeling of a visit back "home" and how good it feels to connect again. To be with people you enjoy and want to spend time with. To meet new character friends who make up The Wolf Pack. This book is the story of Raphael and his journey with Lisa. I couldn't wait to read it and it lives up to all I love in a Tess Thompson novel.
Lisa and Raphael have an attraction to each other. "there was a soul connection between them", but insecurities, personal doubts, past relationship failures and emotional obstructions are hard to get past. These two characters find that they can share their feelings and trust each other to understand and know how it feels when panic and fear sets in. They allow themselves to be vulnerable with each other. Ms. Thompson takes the subject and trauma of PTSD up in this story and how it effects a person's ability to find a "normal" life style. She asks these characters to find strength after tragedy. Sometimes there are no answers as to why bad things happen. She does this in a very caring and sensitive way.
I love Lisa and Raphael. They bring the best out in each other. They are committed to each other. I love Raphael's sweet nickname for Lisa near the beginning of the book....Stardust. It's so cute and special. There are sparks, passion, compassion, devotion and finding "the one" in each other. Ms. Thompson has a way of creating a scene that takes the reader right into it but also lets the reader "fill in" the unwritten parts. There is feeling and emotion in each and every character. Sometimes good and sometimes bad, but the emotion is there for the reader to tap into. It's an all around experience turning the pages and being with the characters through highs and lows.
One of the things I took away from this book is a powerful message about how life can deal us some hard blows and we might never know why. Evil has no understanding and demons can be dark but faith, hope and love overcomes. Ms. Thompson wrote these passages that spoke to me so very much:
"No matter how hard hatred worked, evil forces had never been able to squelch love."
"She prayed silently that they could feel their loved ones near them, reassuring them that hope remained. That love won in the end."
"....how the threads of destiny weaved together in a complicated pattern until finally the woman he was meant to be with would appear. Together, they would make a beautiful tapestry."
Ms. Thompson creates this tapestry in words and puts her heart and soul into each book she writes and each book she writes touches my heart and soul. I love this book! I love this new group of Cliffside Bay family and I'm so looking forward to continuing on this journey with all of them.
I want to especially thank Ms. Thompson for the honor of reading Missed: Raphael and Lisa. It truly is a fantastic book! It's a huge five talented, award winning stars for me!
Lisa and Raphael have an attraction to each other. "there was a soul connection between them", but insecurities, personal doubts, past relationship failures and emotional obstructions are hard to get past. These two characters find that they can share their feelings and trust each other to understand and know how it feels when panic and fear sets in. They allow themselves to be vulnerable with each other. Ms. Thompson takes the subject and trauma of PTSD up in this story and how it effects a person's ability to find a "normal" life style. She asks these characters to find strength after tragedy. Sometimes there are no answers as to why bad things happen. She does this in a very caring and sensitive way.
I love Lisa and Raphael. They bring the best out in each other. They are committed to each other. I love Raphael's sweet nickname for Lisa near the beginning of the book....Stardust. It's so cute and special. There are sparks, passion, compassion, devotion and finding "the one" in each other. Ms. Thompson has a way of creating a scene that takes the reader right into it but also lets the reader "fill in" the unwritten parts. There is feeling and emotion in each and every character. Sometimes good and sometimes bad, but the emotion is there for the reader to tap into. It's an all around experience turning the pages and being with the characters through highs and lows.
One of the things I took away from this book is a powerful message about how life can deal us some hard blows and we might never know why. Evil has no understanding and demons can be dark but faith, hope and love overcomes. Ms. Thompson wrote these passages that spoke to me so very much:
"No matter how hard hatred worked, evil forces had never been able to squelch love."
"She prayed silently that they could feel their loved ones near them, reassuring them that hope remained. That love won in the end."
"....how the threads of destiny weaved together in a complicated pattern until finally the woman he was meant to be with would appear. Together, they would make a beautiful tapestry."
Ms. Thompson creates this tapestry in words and puts her heart and soul into each book she writes and each book she writes touches my heart and soul. I love this book! I love this new group of Cliffside Bay family and I'm so looking forward to continuing on this journey with all of them.
I want to especially thank Ms. Thompson for the honor of reading Missed: Raphael and Lisa. It truly is a fantastic book! It's a huge five talented, award winning stars for me!
July 8, 2019
Another good book by Tess Thompson.
The sixth in the Cliffside Bay series is the turbulent story of Rafael and Lisa.
Lisa, an upcoming star, is at a mass shooting right before her first movie premiers. As she prepares to leave town for the premier and interviews with the press she is living with the trauma from the shooting.
Rafael works for the Mullen’s and has experienced trauma in his life, being in the war and a former cop, he understands all too well what Lisa is going through. The Mullen’s send Rafael with Lisa to not only protect her, but give her a sense of comfort and a friend whose had similar experience.
Of course their time together leads to them quickly falling head over heels in love.
The one thing I LOVED about this book was how the author brought two characters from her River Valley series into the storyline of this book.
The sixth in the Cliffside Bay series is the turbulent story of Rafael and Lisa.
Lisa, an upcoming star, is at a mass shooting right before her first movie premiers. As she prepares to leave town for the premier and interviews with the press she is living with the trauma from the shooting.
Rafael works for the Mullen’s and has experienced trauma in his life, being in the war and a former cop, he understands all too well what Lisa is going through. The Mullen’s send Rafael with Lisa to not only protect her, but give her a sense of comfort and a friend whose had similar experience.
Of course their time together leads to them quickly falling head over heels in love.
The one thing I LOVED about this book was how the author brought two characters from her River Valley series into the storyline of this book.
March 24, 2019
Strong emotions, likable characters, great chemistry and a story line that will pull you in and move you combine together into this wonderful read. Lisa Perry and Rafael Soto were just perfect for each other. A great read in a wonderful series. This is my forthright, honest review.
March 23, 2019
Loving the continuation of Cliffside Bay Series!
Meet Rafael, grew up on the wrong side of town, joined the military instead of a gang, and now he works security for the Mullens. He feels beneath the people he works for, he'll never be good enough to run in their circles, other than as a bodyguard, but when he meets the actress Lisa Perry, he wants to be a better person, but he's just not the guy for her, she deserves someone who's her equal in status.
Lisa finally got her break, and is enjoying stardom, and living near her close friends, she also finds Rafael incredibly hot. While out at a concert the unthinkable happens, and she's scared now. With her press tour coming up, how can she possibly be near crowds without being scared to death.
When the Mullens offer up Rafael to protect her, she has to wonder can she keep her feelings for him separate, or will she try to convince him that he is enough for her?
Tess did an amazing job on this new book in the series, I fell in love and felt everything that the characters were experiencing! Great job of conveying this through your words! 5 amazing stars for this one grab it asap!!
Meet Rafael, grew up on the wrong side of town, joined the military instead of a gang, and now he works security for the Mullens. He feels beneath the people he works for, he'll never be good enough to run in their circles, other than as a bodyguard, but when he meets the actress Lisa Perry, he wants to be a better person, but he's just not the guy for her, she deserves someone who's her equal in status.
Lisa finally got her break, and is enjoying stardom, and living near her close friends, she also finds Rafael incredibly hot. While out at a concert the unthinkable happens, and she's scared now. With her press tour coming up, how can she possibly be near crowds without being scared to death.
When the Mullens offer up Rafael to protect her, she has to wonder can she keep her feelings for him separate, or will she try to convince him that he is enough for her?
Tess did an amazing job on this new book in the series, I fell in love and felt everything that the characters were experiencing! Great job of conveying this through your words! 5 amazing stars for this one grab it asap!!
March 24, 2019
I’ve enjoyed every book so far of the Cliffside Bay series and this one is no exception! And what’s even more exciting is that we are introduced to a whole new group to learn about and to watch (or read) as they fall in love. Some of the pairings of the future books are started in this one. This new spinoff is starting with Rafael, Brody and Kara’s bodyguard, and Lisa, one of Maggie’s best friends from her time in New York. We saw some of Rafael in the last book and we were first introduced to Lisa in Maggie and Jackson’s book but obviously this one goes much deeper into who they are. Also, not to give anything away so I will be vague, but it does deal with a very sensitive subject that has people very divided on these days. I loved reading as Rafael and Lisa learned about each other and set up the stage for The Wolves, the new “gang” in town. Now the question is, what will the girls call themselves!? I can’t wait for all the other stories in this series! I don’t ever want to leave Cliffside Bay!
Reviewed by: Alexis B.
Reviewed by: Alexis B.
March 22, 2019
Let me start by saying I am not a believer in love at first sight, soulmates, or excruciatingly happy endings. Thompson may just change that with her wonderful contemporary love stories. While they are all connected, they can be read as stand alones, although I recommend going in order so you can meet and relish each wonderfully written character and their individual story. Rafael and Lisa's had all the things you could want, interesting back stories, wonderful settings. There was even a bit of politics and pop culture thrown in the mix. I love the sense of family, community, friendship. the love is not overly sticky, and there's plenty of humor to spice things up. Another homerun, Tess! Thank you for the ARC, and allowing me another journey into Cliffside Bay. I may have to move there ;)
March 22, 2019
Another 5 star book by Tess Thompson! I love me a good series, one that I can follow characters that I loved from previous books in the series, then meet and fall in love with the new characters. I got a glimpse of Rafael and Lisa in book five and couldn't wait to read their story in book 6. Missed did not disappoint. It's a great stand alone book , even if, sadly, you didn't read the first 5, but after reading this, you will want to go back and catch up with this delightful cast! I love all of Tess Thompson's books, but this may be my new favorite ( I say that after reading each one, lol!)
March 16, 2019
Welcome to Cliffside Bay. It can either break your heart, uplift your soul or help you find your way home. If your lucky, it can help you do all three. Thompson is back with more heartache and drama in the tiny town were hearts do to heal. Missed is the beginning of a second chance for two broken hearts that have lost their way. Lisa and Rafael find reason in the painful and support in each others arms. I always walk into a Tess Thompson novel, knowing I'll leave a piece of my heart behind when it's over.
March 19, 2019
Return once more to the small California town of Cliffside Bay. Learn more about Maggie Jackson's New York roommate Lisa. She is an aspiring actress who finally gets a break. However, just as she is getting the recognition she deserves, something happens that turns her world upside down - right before the publicity tour for her new movie. Enter Kara and Brody, two dear friends of hers. They come up with a solution to Lisa's safety issues; one that she is not terribly thrilled about in the beginning. Later, we learn of experiences and situations which contributed to Lisa's fears. Read along and see how Rafael helps Lisa and she helps him.
This book also introduces the reader to some of the main characters of another male clique. In the first Cliffside Bay series, we met The Dogs. Now we are being introduced to The Wolves. The first in this series introduces us to Rafael Soto and Lisa Pepper.
This book also introduces the reader to some of the main characters of another male clique. In the first Cliffside Bay series, we met The Dogs. Now we are being introduced to The Wolves. The first in this series introduces us to Rafael Soto and Lisa Pepper.
March 16, 2019
I have enjoyed this series! I think these two might be my favorite! I say that now until Tess Thompson writes another book and I get hooked into another set. Ha! I love how Rafael is a total softy for his mom and that’s sweet as can be. Lisa and Rafael are made for eachother. Another great book that I read in one day! As always thankful for the ARC for my honest review.
March 20, 2019
This had a nice smoldering build up and then BOOM! I love books like that. This was full of romance and sweetness, except where her mother is concerned. I'm very excited to see where this series goes. It's gonna be good!
September 4, 2019
Where do I begin? I have to ask myself this same question every time I finish a book written by author Tess Thompson. There are so many wonderful qualities about her books that I am afraid I will miss an important point. The 6th book in the Cliffside Bay series is about the Mullen's head of security and United States Navy Seal veteran, Rafael Soto. Little does anyone know but Rafael has a serious crush on one of Maggie Waller's best friends, Lisa Perry, from her college days in New York. Feeling he is not good enough for the beautiful actress, Rafael will not think about pursuing a relationship with Lisa. Fate brings the two together when Lisa is involved in a mass shooting incident at a country music festival. Traumatized and feeling as if her career is over, Kala comes up with a plan to help Lisa out. She asks Rafael to travel with Lisa to her Premiere show and other commitments that are required. Although reluctant at first, Rafael agrees and spends a few weeks being in the company of the woman he loves. The relationship explodes from the beginning and Rafael and Lisa become engaged to be married. Through all of the nightmares, both imagined and real, Rafael and Lisa hold each other together and forge an unbreakable bond. Author Tess Thompson writes with such feeling and honesty. Missed is filled with sad situations, never ending love, forgiveness and happy endings. I highly recommend the Cliffside Bay Series to anyone that loves books that are written from the heart because life is not only about fairy tales but we must also must face reality. I look forward to seeing where the awesome characters of Cliffside Bay are going to be led to next!
March 18, 2019
First impression - very interesting seeing well-known, established characters from another person's viewpoint. A person has built an idea of what they are like, so its interesting seeing how others perceive them, it gives you a different perspective on them.
I loved the attention to detail in this book - taking cues from real-life events to add "definition & texture" to the story i.e. the mass shooting at the country concert has echoes of the Las Vegas concert shooting of 2017 at the Route 91 Harvest Festival. Although the events referenced are traumatic, it gives the story a more real life feel. This was especially poignant for me as I read this book the very day after the Christchurch mass shootings.
I also got echoes of the #MeToo movement in Hollywood and the taking action against sexual abuse/exploitation in Hollywood.
I really enjoyed the tie-in to the River Valley series with Genenieve and Stefan. I appreciate gestures like this from authors - its almost a private "thank you" to long time readers who know all the various series's and their characters.
That eulogy that David Perry gave! Wow, I think he may well become one of my favourite characters. In my mind's eye I pictured the scene - seeing Luke Perry as David (may he rest in peace) and seeing the character Grace from "Frankie & Grace" played by Jane Fonda as Mrs Perry.
It may sound cliched but I really enjoyed this book. I loved the storyline, I loved the well-defined characters especially the Perry family - the domineering mother, the silent, almost invisible father - I loved the dynamics of the various friendships and relationships. The introduction of Mama Soto and Ria gives us the mother figures for the Wolves and their women, much like the roles played by Janet Mullen and Flora for the Dogs.
Rafael and Lisa are both secretly attracted to each other but regard themselves as chalk and cheese. A traumatic experience sees Kara (the older sister everyone wishes they have) insist on Rafael, their head of security, accompanying Lisa to various events in Hollywood and New York. Add in a few sparks of desire, some family dramas and a few interesting Hollywood and New York celebrities and the end result is amazing.
It has been wonderful to see how this series has grown and developed. It's also been amazing seeing the growth of the author in her writing. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.
Love truly finds a home in Cliffside Bay.
I loved the attention to detail in this book - taking cues from real-life events to add "definition & texture" to the story i.e. the mass shooting at the country concert has echoes of the Las Vegas concert shooting of 2017 at the Route 91 Harvest Festival. Although the events referenced are traumatic, it gives the story a more real life feel. This was especially poignant for me as I read this book the very day after the Christchurch mass shootings.
I also got echoes of the #MeToo movement in Hollywood and the taking action against sexual abuse/exploitation in Hollywood.
I really enjoyed the tie-in to the River Valley series with Genenieve and Stefan. I appreciate gestures like this from authors - its almost a private "thank you" to long time readers who know all the various series's and their characters.
That eulogy that David Perry gave! Wow, I think he may well become one of my favourite characters. In my mind's eye I pictured the scene - seeing Luke Perry as David (may he rest in peace) and seeing the character Grace from "Frankie & Grace" played by Jane Fonda as Mrs Perry.
It may sound cliched but I really enjoyed this book. I loved the storyline, I loved the well-defined characters especially the Perry family - the domineering mother, the silent, almost invisible father - I loved the dynamics of the various friendships and relationships. The introduction of Mama Soto and Ria gives us the mother figures for the Wolves and their women, much like the roles played by Janet Mullen and Flora for the Dogs.
Rafael and Lisa are both secretly attracted to each other but regard themselves as chalk and cheese. A traumatic experience sees Kara (the older sister everyone wishes they have) insist on Rafael, their head of security, accompanying Lisa to various events in Hollywood and New York. Add in a few sparks of desire, some family dramas and a few interesting Hollywood and New York celebrities and the end result is amazing.
It has been wonderful to see how this series has grown and developed. It's also been amazing seeing the growth of the author in her writing. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.
Love truly finds a home in Cliffside Bay.
November 22, 2019
This is the first installment of The Wolves, which is also known sort of as Cliffside Bay, Part 2. This part of the series features other characters who know the Dogs, all of whom were featured in the first half of the series. They are more friends and family who had all had more bit roles, perhaps, in earlier books, or are just being introduced to us now. You can still read this one as a standalone, but definitely will enjoy it more if you have read the first books in the series, to really know all of these characters.
Quick trigger warning: This story does contain a mass shooting. It's not prolonged and not full of a bunch of gory details. But if such scenes bother you, either skip this book or skip the beginning part and enjoy the rest of the beautiful love story. I did okay with this scene in this book.
This story skips ahead about a year. Lisa is one of Maggie's friends from New York, who is looking to start over. Lisa is understandably suffering from PTSD after being involved in a shooting at a concert. She is supposed to be going on a media tour to promote her new movie and is understandably extra nervous to do so. Rafael is Kara and Brody's bodyguard, but is asked to go on the tour with her for some moral support and protection, just in case. It's a little bit more awkward than it would be otherwise, because Lisa had already asked him out and his gut instincts made him turn her down, though he totally hast he hots for her.
He is the perfect person to accompany her because as a veteran soldier, he understands the PTSD. Plus with the undeniable attraction between the two of them, it is guaranteed to cause plenty of sparks.
Adding to the chaos, Lisa's twin brother David is dealing with finding out his wife has been dealing drugs behind his back for extra money. So there's a lot of drama going on in this little world!
Lisa may be becoming famous, but she still hasn't let go of her icky middle school awkward phase that is still prominent in her mind. Rafael's past comes back to haunt him at one point. But the two of them are able to lean on each other and help each other through all of their traumas. And you've gotta love a man who loves his mama.
If you've read the River Valley series, keep an eye out for a crossover. It made me smile.
So it's yet another great story in this series that I have come to love so much. Well worth curling up with in the evenings.
Quick trigger warning: This story does contain a mass shooting. It's not prolonged and not full of a bunch of gory details. But if such scenes bother you, either skip this book or skip the beginning part and enjoy the rest of the beautiful love story. I did okay with this scene in this book.
This story skips ahead about a year. Lisa is one of Maggie's friends from New York, who is looking to start over. Lisa is understandably suffering from PTSD after being involved in a shooting at a concert. She is supposed to be going on a media tour to promote her new movie and is understandably extra nervous to do so. Rafael is Kara and Brody's bodyguard, but is asked to go on the tour with her for some moral support and protection, just in case. It's a little bit more awkward than it would be otherwise, because Lisa had already asked him out and his gut instincts made him turn her down, though he totally hast he hots for her.
He is the perfect person to accompany her because as a veteran soldier, he understands the PTSD. Plus with the undeniable attraction between the two of them, it is guaranteed to cause plenty of sparks.
Adding to the chaos, Lisa's twin brother David is dealing with finding out his wife has been dealing drugs behind his back for extra money. So there's a lot of drama going on in this little world!
Lisa may be becoming famous, but she still hasn't let go of her icky middle school awkward phase that is still prominent in her mind. Rafael's past comes back to haunt him at one point. But the two of them are able to lean on each other and help each other through all of their traumas. And you've gotta love a man who loves his mama.
If you've read the River Valley series, keep an eye out for a crossover. It made me smile.
So it's yet another great story in this series that I have come to love so much. Well worth curling up with in the evenings.
March 22, 2019
I’m super excited about this continuation of the Cliffside Bay series with a new set of characters known as the Wolves. This first story with Rafael and Lisa is so sweat and emotional, that I was shedding tears throughout the story.
We know Rafael Soto as the bodyguard to the Brody and Kara Mullens. The story delves deeper into his past and the man he is now. As ex-military and a former cop, he’s seen his fair share of horror and is haunted by those events. He’s a good man trying to do right by his mama and her best friend Ria but he feels unworthy of any happiness. After he met Lisa he couldn’t stop thinking about her but he knew nothing would come of it.
Lisa Perry is a rising star who has fought her way to the top. With a terribly critical, unloving mother, she’s always been extremely shy and insecure. But one thing she does have is talent. On her way to superstardom, a tragic event leaves her feeling traumatized and feeling unable to fulfill her duties until Rafael is requested by Kara to accompany her on her publicity tour. Their time together proves to be one of challenges, enlightenment and desire, which then leads to a romance unlike either have ever had before. They open up to each other about things so deeply guarded that not even their closest friends/family know about. When a new threat arises, they stand together to face it.
I love Cliffside Bay. I want to go live there and be friends with all of these wonderful people. Rafael and Lisa are just so great together. I love the way she challenged him about not being good enough for her. It was a great moment of clarity for both of them. The story also deals with depression and PTSD in a real way. Lisa’s episodes of anxiety and panic attacks and Rafael’s nightmares are human topics that a lot of people deal with and it was interesting how it was incorporated here.
The other characters are awesome and I cannot wait to read their stories, especially Stone and Pepper’s story. There’s a lot of passion and spark there for this not to be anything but a great love story. I anxiously await to read more about Trey, Nico and especially David, Lisa’s brother’s. His heartbreaking tale was part of Missed and it promises to be a gut wrenching one. Great start to what I know will be a wonderful series.
We know Rafael Soto as the bodyguard to the Brody and Kara Mullens. The story delves deeper into his past and the man he is now. As ex-military and a former cop, he’s seen his fair share of horror and is haunted by those events. He’s a good man trying to do right by his mama and her best friend Ria but he feels unworthy of any happiness. After he met Lisa he couldn’t stop thinking about her but he knew nothing would come of it.
Lisa Perry is a rising star who has fought her way to the top. With a terribly critical, unloving mother, she’s always been extremely shy and insecure. But one thing she does have is talent. On her way to superstardom, a tragic event leaves her feeling traumatized and feeling unable to fulfill her duties until Rafael is requested by Kara to accompany her on her publicity tour. Their time together proves to be one of challenges, enlightenment and desire, which then leads to a romance unlike either have ever had before. They open up to each other about things so deeply guarded that not even their closest friends/family know about. When a new threat arises, they stand together to face it.
I love Cliffside Bay. I want to go live there and be friends with all of these wonderful people. Rafael and Lisa are just so great together. I love the way she challenged him about not being good enough for her. It was a great moment of clarity for both of them. The story also deals with depression and PTSD in a real way. Lisa’s episodes of anxiety and panic attacks and Rafael’s nightmares are human topics that a lot of people deal with and it was interesting how it was incorporated here.
The other characters are awesome and I cannot wait to read their stories, especially Stone and Pepper’s story. There’s a lot of passion and spark there for this not to be anything but a great love story. I anxiously await to read more about Trey, Nico and especially David, Lisa’s brother’s. His heartbreaking tale was part of Missed and it promises to be a gut wrenching one. Great start to what I know will be a wonderful series.
October 22, 2022
Missed: Raphael and Lisa: Cliffside Bay Book 7 is by Tess Thompson. This begins the second set of books by Tess Thompson. These involve friends and acquaintances of the Dogs. Lisa Perry is a dancer/actress who came to California to be near her friend Maggie. She was cast in a television series and stole the show. Now she is getting ready to start her round of interviews, parties, etc. to promote her new film, Raven. While waiting, she and her friend Pepper planned to visit a nearby town and attend a music festival. Unfortunately, Pepper was ill and unable to go with her. At the concert, she met Cheryl who was there for her 50th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately, her husband got called into work so she came alone. The two talked and got to know each other a little while waiting for the showstopper, Wyatt Black. They were listening to Wyatt when a man began shooting into the crowd with an automatic weapon. Cheryl was killed right next to Lisa. An ex-cop managed to get Lind scramble out of the immediate area. Lisa wasn’t hurt, just in confused and scared.
Lisa was scheduled to go on tour the following day; but she was completely devastated for the people and what happened. She told no one about the shooting so she froze on an interview when someone dropped a light backstage and surprised her. She thought it was another shooter. She froze on the next set of questions she was asked. On television it looked like she zoned out on drugs. Luckily, her family had insisted on her having a bodyguard on the tour and Raphael knew about the shooting, so he was able to relay the appropriate information and get her agent into gear to stop the drug rumor. Lisa decided to agree with her brother about having Raphael serve as her guard as well as her boyfriend.
Raphael was already attracted to Lisa and didn’t want to continue as her guard; but Honor and her family convinced her that he was needed. As for Raphael, guarding her was both a pleasure and the worst nightmare of his life. Will he be able to be the guard she needed or did she need one from him?
Lisa was scheduled to go on tour the following day; but she was completely devastated for the people and what happened. She told no one about the shooting so she froze on an interview when someone dropped a light backstage and surprised her. She thought it was another shooter. She froze on the next set of questions she was asked. On television it looked like she zoned out on drugs. Luckily, her family had insisted on her having a bodyguard on the tour and Raphael knew about the shooting, so he was able to relay the appropriate information and get her agent into gear to stop the drug rumor. Lisa decided to agree with her brother about having Raphael serve as her guard as well as her boyfriend.
Raphael was already attracted to Lisa and didn’t want to continue as her guard; but Honor and her family convinced her that he was needed. As for Raphael, guarding her was both a pleasure and the worst nightmare of his life. Will he be able to be the guard she needed or did she need one from him?
March 24, 2019
It was such a pleasure to return to Cliffside Bay! This is the 6th book in the series, and focuses on the relationship between Lisa and Rafael. Lisa is an upcoming actress who is beginning to attain the recognition she deserves. Rafael is head of Security for Brody and his family, whom we met in the very first Cliffside Bay book. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend that you begin the series with Traded, where you will meet Brody and Kara. The first five books in the series focus on them, their friends "The Dogs" and "The Wags". With each story you will learn more about the main characters, their histories and personalities, their setbacks, goals and successes.
Missed begins the focus on new characters; some were tangential in earlier books, and some are brand new to us. The stories of the "Wolves" will be emphasized in this, and four more books to be written in the Cliffside Bay series.
I can't tell you how much I love these books! Oh, to wake up and find myself in such a place, and with such a growing group of wonderful characters. Reading each book is immersing ones self in a town like no other; where, despite occasional setbacks and tragedies, love and real friendships help the characters live their lives and find happiness and contentment. Ms. Thompson is quite a gifted and prolific writer, and I can't wait for the next book!
I realize I haven't given much of a summary of Missed here, but other reviewers have done a great job of that. As stated previously, this is a standalone story, but I wanted to emphasize here that if you begin with Traded, and read the books in order, you will find at least six times the enjoyment (so far!) of just reading one book. I was lucky enough to obtain an ARC of Missed, and this is my honest review. I would give it more than five stars if that was possible!
Missed begins the focus on new characters; some were tangential in earlier books, and some are brand new to us. The stories of the "Wolves" will be emphasized in this, and four more books to be written in the Cliffside Bay series.
I can't tell you how much I love these books! Oh, to wake up and find myself in such a place, and with such a growing group of wonderful characters. Reading each book is immersing ones self in a town like no other; where, despite occasional setbacks and tragedies, love and real friendships help the characters live their lives and find happiness and contentment. Ms. Thompson is quite a gifted and prolific writer, and I can't wait for the next book!
I realize I haven't given much of a summary of Missed here, but other reviewers have done a great job of that. As stated previously, this is a standalone story, but I wanted to emphasize here that if you begin with Traded, and read the books in order, you will find at least six times the enjoyment (so far!) of just reading one book. I was lucky enough to obtain an ARC of Missed, and this is my honest review. I would give it more than five stars if that was possible!
March 24, 2019
Lisa Perry's life is finally on track with her dreams coming true. Her acting career has finally taken off, and she spends her spare time hanging out in Cliffside Bay with her two best friends, Maggie & Pepper. All of that changes when she's caught up in a nightmare moment that messes with her badly, and now she has some serious anxiety that has her not even wanting to deal with her contract obligations of a publicity tour that will keep her career on the upswing. So her friends hire Rafael to accompany her on this tour, which at first she refuses, because see before that night of terror, she asked him out, and he turned her down in a humiliating way. It wasn't because he didn't have a thing for her, nope, he thought he wasn't good enough for her. After they talk her into it, they take off for LA, and get close, as he helps her relax. And it doesn't hurt that he starts to actually open his mind to the idea of them. This story was another amazing story in this series by Tess Thompson that I couldn't get enough of. Each new book always is so different, but so good in it's own way. Rafael & Lisa were perfect together, even though he was so stubborn about it to the point that I wanted to shake him. However, his mother was awesome, along with her best friend, and they would tag team him, which had me laughing hard, but they were the voice of reason to get through his thick skull. Not to mention the rest of the cast of secondaries who never let anyone get away with anything. This story had a few big twists that were definitely f-bomb dropping worthy, and drop them I did. I LOVE this series, and these new group of men are almost like a spin off of The Dogs, but still part of the series, so I totally can't wait for more! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 25, 2019
I received a review copy of the book before release for an honest review.
This is part two of the series, the first part was The Dogs and this is The Wolf's. The Wolf's decide to start a company that takes old buildings and homes and revitalize and fix them up. Rafael is the guy who can find the homes, Stone is the construction guy and Troy is the designer. Their first project is an apartment for Rafael Soto who also works protection for Kara and Brody.
This story also stars Lisa Perry, an actress friend of Maggie and Jackson who is also close friends with Kara. Something awful happens to Lisa one night and she needs help as she goes out on a movie promo tour and so Kara lends Rafe to her for several weeks and the two hit the road.
The something that happens I feel I need to warn those who are sensitive to the subject about. Lisa attends a concert where a shooter starts shooting the public and many are injured and some die. I live in southern California so this was very jarring and something I was not expecting. The author did a great job showing how that event changes a person forever.
Lisa and Rafe both have MAJOR crushes on each other but he feels he is not worthy of being with her and so he won't give the a shot. Lisa wants Rafe and she works hard to get him to see how amazing they can be together.
I LOVED this story and I am totally hooked on this part 2 of the series and cannot wait for more. This was a fun romance about two very different people falling in love and coming together and seeing how great they both are.
This is part two of the series, the first part was The Dogs and this is The Wolf's. The Wolf's decide to start a company that takes old buildings and homes and revitalize and fix them up. Rafael is the guy who can find the homes, Stone is the construction guy and Troy is the designer. Their first project is an apartment for Rafael Soto who also works protection for Kara and Brody.
This story also stars Lisa Perry, an actress friend of Maggie and Jackson who is also close friends with Kara. Something awful happens to Lisa one night and she needs help as she goes out on a movie promo tour and so Kara lends Rafe to her for several weeks and the two hit the road.
The something that happens I feel I need to warn those who are sensitive to the subject about. Lisa attends a concert where a shooter starts shooting the public and many are injured and some die. I live in southern California so this was very jarring and something I was not expecting. The author did a great job showing how that event changes a person forever.
Lisa and Rafe both have MAJOR crushes on each other but he feels he is not worthy of being with her and so he won't give the a shot. Lisa wants Rafe and she works hard to get him to see how amazing they can be together.
I LOVED this story and I am totally hooked on this part 2 of the series and cannot wait for more. This was a fun romance about two very different people falling in love and coming together and seeing how great they both are.
April 17, 2019
Tess Thompson has done it again with her newest addition of the Cliffside Bay Series, Book #6, Missed.
A wonderfully enjoyable story, one in which can be read as a standalone, should you choose to do so, but I highly recommend reading the entire series, because it's just that good!
What starts out as a professional relationship, Lisa and Rafael both find themselves reliving and dealing with the scars, both physically and emotionally of their past and feel completely unworthy of another's love. As the story builds, they find themselves in the throes of true love but will that love continue to exist, will that chance be taken away by the tragic events burned into their lives, or will they be able to overcome the issues that could very well destroy their hopes of saving a love so deep.
True to life characters and a compelling storyline combined, lead to the action, vulnerability, romance and sheer strength of Missed. A page turner that delves into a darker subject than previous books, but is so well balanced that you'll find yourself wanting more from theses characters, again and again.
This story will tear at your emotions, yet find you feeling uplifted as well. THAT, in my opinion, is the true essence of storytelling which Tess Thompson has delivered, yet again!
The Dogs, The Wolves, and the wives are favorites! They'll be yours too!
I thank Tess Thompson for this ARC copy of Missed, one in which, as always, I've thoroughly enjoyed.
5 Stars
#Missed
#TessThompson
Wild Sage Book Blog
Novels & Latte Book Club
A wonderfully enjoyable story, one in which can be read as a standalone, should you choose to do so, but I highly recommend reading the entire series, because it's just that good!
What starts out as a professional relationship, Lisa and Rafael both find themselves reliving and dealing with the scars, both physically and emotionally of their past and feel completely unworthy of another's love. As the story builds, they find themselves in the throes of true love but will that love continue to exist, will that chance be taken away by the tragic events burned into their lives, or will they be able to overcome the issues that could very well destroy their hopes of saving a love so deep.
True to life characters and a compelling storyline combined, lead to the action, vulnerability, romance and sheer strength of Missed. A page turner that delves into a darker subject than previous books, but is so well balanced that you'll find yourself wanting more from theses characters, again and again.
This story will tear at your emotions, yet find you feeling uplifted as well. THAT, in my opinion, is the true essence of storytelling which Tess Thompson has delivered, yet again!
The Dogs, The Wolves, and the wives are favorites! They'll be yours too!
I thank Tess Thompson for this ARC copy of Missed, one in which, as always, I've thoroughly enjoyed.
5 Stars
#Missed
#TessThompson
Wild Sage Book Blog
Novels & Latte Book Club
March 25, 2019
I have no words. This series keeps getting better and better. Rafael is a proud man, who pushes Lisa away, even though it is the last thing he wants to do. Lisa is also a proud woman, who doesn't let many people in. She has her group of friends who she would do anything for, but is trying to get used to living her dream.
When she goes to a concert and a man opens fire, she is gripped with survivor guilt, but also, ptsd. She has to go promote her new movie, and Rafael is sent to keep an eye on her. The chemistry between the two is palpable and undeniable. She doesn't want anyone to know what she went through, she doesn't want the focus taken off of those who died and their families, but when she freezes during an interview, Rafael comes to her defense.
As they try to navigate a friendship, as well as moving on to more, the reasons they each falter from time to time becomes obvious. I absolutely adored how he was always in her corner, especially when her mom was involved. I even liked how she showed her softer side to him, even though it made her more vulnerable.
The side story of her brother was heartbreaking and I can't wait to read his story. Hopefully, her mom will wake up and try to make things right with both her son and daughter. I loved his mom and Ria and felt they brought levity to the story. I can't wait to read about all of the Wolves and how they navigate falling in love.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
When she goes to a concert and a man opens fire, she is gripped with survivor guilt, but also, ptsd. She has to go promote her new movie, and Rafael is sent to keep an eye on her. The chemistry between the two is palpable and undeniable. She doesn't want anyone to know what she went through, she doesn't want the focus taken off of those who died and their families, but when she freezes during an interview, Rafael comes to her defense.
As they try to navigate a friendship, as well as moving on to more, the reasons they each falter from time to time becomes obvious. I absolutely adored how he was always in her corner, especially when her mom was involved. I even liked how she showed her softer side to him, even though it made her more vulnerable.
The side story of her brother was heartbreaking and I can't wait to read his story. Hopefully, her mom will wake up and try to make things right with both her son and daughter. I loved his mom and Ria and felt they brought levity to the story. I can't wait to read about all of the Wolves and how they navigate falling in love.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
March 24, 2019
A new chapter for the Cliffside Bay series begins here. A new group is forming. Rafael, the head of security for Brody and Kara, is building a life in Cliffside Bay. An ex-Navy Seal he is a bit of a loner type. Lisa, an actress friend of Maggie's, is splitting her time between working on acting roles and spending time in town with her friends. When tragedy strikes the two come together in a tumultuous way. Will they be able to move past their demons and find peace together? Read and find out.
Tess did it again! I have had the privilege to read this whole series, and this was another GREAT story. I loved it. Rafael is a character I can relate to because my husband was in the military. I have been around a soldier that has faced things. Lisa is a character that I can relate to personally. I'm shy and not very open to the world, but in my opinion, I have a huge heart just like her. I loved them both. I loved their romance.
This story is packed with drama and romance. You get a blend of new and old characters. It was written in a way that you can't help but love. As I said, I have read this whole series, and each book gets better. Missed was my favorite one yet. Overall, I can sum this book up in one word... AMAZING!
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Tess did it again! I have had the privilege to read this whole series, and this was another GREAT story. I loved it. Rafael is a character I can relate to because my husband was in the military. I have been around a soldier that has faced things. Lisa is a character that I can relate to personally. I'm shy and not very open to the world, but in my opinion, I have a huge heart just like her. I loved them both. I loved their romance.
This story is packed with drama and romance. You get a blend of new and old characters. It was written in a way that you can't help but love. As I said, I have read this whole series, and each book gets better. Missed was my favorite one yet. Overall, I can sum this book up in one word... AMAZING!
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https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
March 25, 2019
The latest in Tess Thompson’s Cliffside Bay series takes the series in a new direction. Now that all of the Dogs are happily paired up, it’s time for us to meet the Wolves. First up is Rafael, the bodyguard hired to protect the Mullen family. He has a thing for Lisa, Maggie’s friend from NYC. The author puts them in a situation that you know is going to make sparks fly. I like how the author manages to keep the familiar characters around, even having a sort of “guest starring” moment with characters from another series, but still allows the main characters to have their time. The switch of focus from Dogs to Wolves is seamless, and you can already tell that this is going to be another series that you can’t wait to revisit because it’s like catching up with old friends. If I had to say anything negative about this book (and I really don’t want to), it would be that there was just a little bit too much “reality” in the plot. I understand that characters cannot live in a vacuum, but sometimes I like to escape and not think about real-life issues when I read, especially in romances. But that’s getting nitpicky because the author handles it tastefully. This is one of my favorite series, and I am excited that there is a whole new set of characters to get to know. 4.5 stars for this one. This review was written based on a complimentary pre-release copy.
March 22, 2019
Missed: Rafael and Lisa
Cliffside Bay Series Book 6
For me, reading book 6 in the Cliffside Bay series is like slipping into a cozy, well warn sweater. Tess Thompson does a great job of making the book readable as a stand alone, but if you read the other books in the series, you already know most of the characters and it is easy to slip right into the continuing story from the first page.
Ms. Thompson writes her characters with such depth, they feel like friends or family members. This book has the Dogs, (guys group of friends) from the other books in the series and introduces the Wolves a new group of guys. Of course, there are all of the women too.
In Missed we remember both Rafael and Lisa as minor characters in Tainted: Lance and Mary, book 5, but we learn more about them and their growing love story in book 6.
If you are a Tess Thompson Fan like I am, you will recognize Genevieve and Stephan in this book from her flagship series, River Valley. It is fun to connect the two series if you have read them. If you haven’t, maybe you should!
Pour yourself a cup of tea, put on your comfy sweater and curl up with this 5 STAR book from Tess Thompson I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Cliffside Bay Series Book 6
For me, reading book 6 in the Cliffside Bay series is like slipping into a cozy, well warn sweater. Tess Thompson does a great job of making the book readable as a stand alone, but if you read the other books in the series, you already know most of the characters and it is easy to slip right into the continuing story from the first page.
Ms. Thompson writes her characters with such depth, they feel like friends or family members. This book has the Dogs, (guys group of friends) from the other books in the series and introduces the Wolves a new group of guys. Of course, there are all of the women too.
In Missed we remember both Rafael and Lisa as minor characters in Tainted: Lance and Mary, book 5, but we learn more about them and their growing love story in book 6.
If you are a Tess Thompson Fan like I am, you will recognize Genevieve and Stephan in this book from her flagship series, River Valley. It is fun to connect the two series if you have read them. If you haven’t, maybe you should!
Pour yourself a cup of tea, put on your comfy sweater and curl up with this 5 STAR book from Tess Thompson I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 23, 2019
I loved this triumphant return to Cliffside Bay!
This author has a real talent for taking people who don't think that they're right for each other and showing just how well-suited they are deep down. I love how totally honest, transparent, and vulnerable Rafael and Lisa are with each other, and just with each other. It shows true emotional intimacy, and establishes that as a solid foundation for their relationship.
The tragedies that color their outlook in life are both in the present and recalled from the past. Each is sensitively handled, and helps us to understand the emotional wounds they are recovering from. The romance itself is sweet and soul-satisfying, even without as many of the intimate details as we've seen in earlier books in this series.
As the first in this new phase of the series, we're introduced to all five of the Wolves as well as the circumstances that bring them together and the foundation that will bind them even more in the future. We have a few new faces added to the mix, and hints that some familiar characters will be getting their shot at an HEA in future books. I'm hooked already, and can't wait to read more in this captivating world. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This author has a real talent for taking people who don't think that they're right for each other and showing just how well-suited they are deep down. I love how totally honest, transparent, and vulnerable Rafael and Lisa are with each other, and just with each other. It shows true emotional intimacy, and establishes that as a solid foundation for their relationship.
The tragedies that color their outlook in life are both in the present and recalled from the past. Each is sensitively handled, and helps us to understand the emotional wounds they are recovering from. The romance itself is sweet and soul-satisfying, even without as many of the intimate details as we've seen in earlier books in this series.
As the first in this new phase of the series, we're introduced to all five of the Wolves as well as the circumstances that bring them together and the foundation that will bind them even more in the future. We have a few new faces added to the mix, and hints that some familiar characters will be getting their shot at an HEA in future books. I'm hooked already, and can't wait to read more in this captivating world. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 24, 2019
3.5 Stars
Missed is book 6 in the Cliffside Bay Series. This is actually a continuation of the series that focuses on a new group of characters. The author started out saying it could be read as a stand-alone but you will really get more out of it if you read the other books first. As someone who didn't read the others first, I definitely wish that I would have. There was so much going on and so many characters and situations that I know reading the other books would have given me some of the information I wish I had had.
This is Rafael and Lisa's story. While I enjoyed the storyline I struggled connecting with the characters. It really took until the majority of the book was over for me to really feel invested in their story.
There was some heartbreaking moments as well as some suspenseful ones that did have me on the edge of my seat. I was also proud to see Lisa grow into a much stronger confident person as the story went on.
Over all, I do plan on getting my hands on the other books in this series because there were definitely some other characters that grabbed my attention and made me want to know the story behind what they have been through. Hopefully that will open my eyes more to Lisa and Rafael. - By Alisa
Missed is book 6 in the Cliffside Bay Series. This is actually a continuation of the series that focuses on a new group of characters. The author started out saying it could be read as a stand-alone but you will really get more out of it if you read the other books first. As someone who didn't read the others first, I definitely wish that I would have. There was so much going on and so many characters and situations that I know reading the other books would have given me some of the information I wish I had had.
This is Rafael and Lisa's story. While I enjoyed the storyline I struggled connecting with the characters. It really took until the majority of the book was over for me to really feel invested in their story.
There was some heartbreaking moments as well as some suspenseful ones that did have me on the edge of my seat. I was also proud to see Lisa grow into a much stronger confident person as the story went on.
Over all, I do plan on getting my hands on the other books in this series because there were definitely some other characters that grabbed my attention and made me want to know the story behind what they have been through. Hopefully that will open my eyes more to Lisa and Rafael. - By Alisa
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