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Rifle Creek #1
Lethal Edge
A diehard romantic looking to start over in a small town.
Dr. Nina Gomez might be an astrophysicist and a scientist down to her bones, but she also believes in true love and happily ever after—and won’t settle for anything less. After a rocky end to her first semester teaching at the University of Montana, she’s looking forward to a new school year and a fresh start in the small town of Rifle Creek.
When she meets her roommate’s work partner, a sexy, hard-edged detective, Nina is immediately intrigued. However, it’s soon clear they’re like oil and water. But when she’s confronted by the painful past event she wanted to forget, she faces an even greater danger.
A predator is bent on silencing her forever, and Nina’s only hope of survival is the unattainable man who’s captured her heart.
A cynical cop determined to guard his heart.
Tate Baldwin has dedicated his life to serving and protecting, first in the military, and now as a detective in Rifle Creek. Badly burned by his last relationship, he isn’t looking to get involved with anyone, especially a brilliant college professor who seems to have her head in the clouds.
Yet even Tate can’t deny the attraction between them that soon grows into something more. And when a secret from her past triggers a lethal threat, Tate will risk everything to stand between her and the monster who wants her dead.
Dr. Nina Gomez might be an astrophysicist and a scientist down to her bones, but she also believes in true love and happily ever after—and won’t settle for anything less. After a rocky end to her first semester teaching at the University of Montana, she’s looking forward to a new school year and a fresh start in the small town of Rifle Creek.
When she meets her roommate’s work partner, a sexy, hard-edged detective, Nina is immediately intrigued. However, it’s soon clear they’re like oil and water. But when she’s confronted by the painful past event she wanted to forget, she faces an even greater danger.
A predator is bent on silencing her forever, and Nina’s only hope of survival is the unattainable man who’s captured her heart.
A cynical cop determined to guard his heart.
Tate Baldwin has dedicated his life to serving and protecting, first in the military, and now as a detective in Rifle Creek. Badly burned by his last relationship, he isn’t looking to get involved with anyone, especially a brilliant college professor who seems to have her head in the clouds.
Yet even Tate can’t deny the attraction between them that soon grows into something more. And when a secret from her past triggers a lethal threat, Tate will risk everything to stand between her and the monster who wants her dead.
265 pages, Paperback
First published July 28, 2020
456 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
Kaylea Cross
98 books1,799 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
August 19, 2020
If you hate insta-love, this is not the book for you. If you love a hot romance, a romantic story and terrifying suspense, this one is for you. Most of the series that Kaylea Cross has written dealt with heroes who were military, former military, SWAT, FBI, ect. A lot of them have focused on threats to national security in one way or another. Lately she has shifted her focus to more small town issues, which is not to say that they are any less, just different. "Lethal Edge" still has her trademark action. Our heroes in this Rifle Creek Series are former military, so she isn't straying to far, but the setting in Rifle Creek, MT is different, with a different set of problems.
Dr. Nina Gomez has loved the stars her while life, so her career choice as an astrophysicist and a scientist is no surprise. She is a professor at the University of Montana, but coming back after summer break has decided she wants to live in the small town of Rifle Creek with her best friend, Avery, a cop there. New school year, new home - time to put away what happened during her last semester. Nina is the eternal optimist and romantic, a glass half full kind of person. She sees life as an adventure and believes in Happily Ever After.
Tate Baldwin is a former Marine who has bounced around a bid after his discharge. He has landed as a detective in the small town of Rifle Creek and found his home, even if the job is a snore at times. It's a new beginning for him too after the breakup of a long term relationship that left him cynical and his heart broken. True love? It doesn't exist. When he meets Nina, he feels the first sparks of attraction for a woman in over a year, even if she is totally unrealistic when it comes love and relationships. When Nina's past threatens her future, Tate knows he will move heaven and earth to keep her safe.
Dr. Nina Gomez has loved the stars her while life, so her career choice as an astrophysicist and a scientist is no surprise. She is a professor at the University of Montana, but coming back after summer break has decided she wants to live in the small town of Rifle Creek with her best friend, Avery, a cop there. New school year, new home - time to put away what happened during her last semester. Nina is the eternal optimist and romantic, a glass half full kind of person. She sees life as an adventure and believes in Happily Ever After.
Tate Baldwin is a former Marine who has bounced around a bid after his discharge. He has landed as a detective in the small town of Rifle Creek and found his home, even if the job is a snore at times. It's a new beginning for him too after the breakup of a long term relationship that left him cynical and his heart broken. True love? It doesn't exist. When he meets Nina, he feels the first sparks of attraction for a woman in over a year, even if she is totally unrealistic when it comes love and relationships. When Nina's past threatens her future, Tate knows he will move heaven and earth to keep her safe.
July 21, 2020
Nina is a very bright woman. She is an astrophysicist and a scientist down to her bones. She believes in romance and happily ever afters
Tate is a detective and ex military and had a bad relationship and doesn't believe in romance or happily ever afters.
When Tate meets Nina through her best friend who is also Tate's partner on the force, there was instant attraction
The characters in this book are so funny. We have Tate's neighbor with fainting sheep. 2 elderly sisters who do a lot of baking.
Then when something happens from Nina's past Tate is right there and maybe will show him that he actually has feelings for Nina.
I received this from Inkslinger for review.
Tate is a detective and ex military and had a bad relationship and doesn't believe in romance or happily ever afters.
When Tate meets Nina through her best friend who is also Tate's partner on the force, there was instant attraction
The characters in this book are so funny. We have Tate's neighbor with fainting sheep. 2 elderly sisters who do a lot of baking.
Then when something happens from Nina's past Tate is right there and maybe will show him that he actually has feelings for Nina.
I received this from Inkslinger for review.
July 30, 2020
Lethal Edge is book 1 in a new series from Kaylea Cross that features former military men, a small Montana town, and the ladies whom they come to love! I love a small town story because the townspeople usually become great secondary characters (Pat and Bev)!
Nina is a whipsmart astrophysicist but also a dewy eyed romantic. I enjoyed the fact that someone who is intellectually brilliant still held on to hope in things like love at first sight. Often, smart women in books are portrayed as cynical because they are scientists and only rely on facts. It was nice to see another side! Also, Nina's past provides some of the suspense in the book and it was very intriguing. You get glimpses into the villain throughout the story (even within the first chapter or so) and that added to the suspense. I enjoyed this aspect of Lethal Edge!
Tate was a little more difficult for me to warm up to. He has a HUGE chip on his shoulder from an ex. He has basically written off love. He is annoyed and confused by his feelings for Nina, and is sure that her stance on romance is incorrect because of his experience with an ex. Tate is 37-was this one horrible ex the only relationship he ever had? If so, his behavior is a bit more understandable. If he had other relationships, or had seen positive relationships, you would think his views wouldn't be so black and white on the idea of love. Perhaps it bothered me more because I did love Nina and her optimism. Of course, during the course of Lethal Edge, Tate does develop and grow. It was just his initial behavior that really rubbed me the wrong way.
Tate and his former military friends are creating a new business that will help train investigators, private security, etc and I really loved their business idea. I'm excited to see this grow throughout the books! Lethal Edge is a good introduction to this new series and there are a lot of things romantic suspense readers will enjoy!
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: ex military, police
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
other badass former military heroes like those in Cyclone by Janie Crouch, Defending Allye by Susan Stoker, Resurrection by Katie Reus...then you will probably like Lethal Edge!
Lethal Edge
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See full review on The Book Disciple
November 10, 2021
**3.5** Dr. Nina Gomez is astrophysicist with a painful past. Tate Baldwin is a cop, and former military man with a slight chip on his shoulder. Not my favorite Kaylea Cross book, but not bad either. Didn’t really get a huge feeling of connection between the characters, but the action at the end was WILD.
Decent narration from Jeffrey Kafer and Heather Costa.
Decent narration from Jeffrey Kafer and Heather Costa.
December 6, 2020
I don't have much to say about the characters that wasn't said in the precis.
This was a good opening to a series. All the characters were introduced without the secondary characters completely taking over the story, and without losing the main characters in the process.
I liked that Nina was a hopeless romantic and she didn't let Tate's cynicism get in the way of those thoughts. The attraction between them was evident from the moment they met, even though he thought she was being naïve about her thoughts on romance.
I loved the one-upmanship with the "food war" between Nina and the neighbors. The way the neighbors are reminds me a bit of Virgin River (Robyn Carr), except Rifle Creek isn't as fleshed out.
I spent most of the book trying to see if I could figure out what role the villain played (besides being the villain) in their everyday lives.
I just wish it would have been more time for their romance to blossom. Once they finally admitted their attraction it didn't seem to leave enough time for that to strengthen into something else, before they were saying I love you.
Lastly, Tate may have been a cynic when it came to romance, but he knew how to do a date right.
This was a good opening to a series. All the characters were introduced without the secondary characters completely taking over the story, and without losing the main characters in the process.
I liked that Nina was a hopeless romantic and she didn't let Tate's cynicism get in the way of those thoughts. The attraction between them was evident from the moment they met, even though he thought she was being naïve about her thoughts on romance.
I loved the one-upmanship with the "food war" between Nina and the neighbors. The way the neighbors are reminds me a bit of Virgin River (Robyn Carr), except Rifle Creek isn't as fleshed out.
I spent most of the book trying to see if I could figure out what role the villain played (besides being the villain) in their everyday lives.
I just wish it would have been more time for their romance to blossom. Once they finally admitted their attraction it didn't seem to leave enough time for that to strengthen into something else, before they were saying I love you.
Lastly, Tate may have been a cynic when it came to romance, but he knew how to do a date right.
July 28, 2020
Lethal Edge is the debut novel in Kaylea Cross' new Rifle Creek series.
The start of an exciting new business venture for ex-military friends banding together to provide an "adventure ranch/ training facility geared toward private security and contracting groups," and a whole next cast of characters, are introduced in Lethal Edge.
Tate and Nina's story and journey to HEA is perfectly balanced. One one hand there is the development of Tate and Nina's relationship and on the other, there is the suspense created as the ongoing mystery is worked through to its conclusion.
All in all, Lethal Edge is an exciting and sweet love story that provides the perfect foundation of characters, both primary and secondary, which readers will meet again as the Rifle Creek series develops.
The start of an exciting new business venture for ex-military friends banding together to provide an "adventure ranch/ training facility geared toward private security and contracting groups," and a whole next cast of characters, are introduced in Lethal Edge.
Tate and Nina's story and journey to HEA is perfectly balanced. One one hand there is the development of Tate and Nina's relationship and on the other, there is the suspense created as the ongoing mystery is worked through to its conclusion.
All in all, Lethal Edge is an exciting and sweet love story that provides the perfect foundation of characters, both primary and secondary, which readers will meet again as the Rifle Creek series develops.
July 31, 2020
Sweet romance meets deadly romantic suspense…
Tate and Nina are my new “it” couple as their rocky start snowballed into an enduring love…
Both of these characters, and the family and friends that surrounded them, were easy to like. Self-professed science nerd, Nina embraced her new home with enthusiasm and a lot of hope. Tate, her landlord/new bestie’s partner, was a protector through and through. Bitten by love, he approached life with a good amount of reserve, and Nina even more so. He struggled to figure her out, not believing that she could be as honest and sweet as she appeared to be. In his experience, that never happened. Observing her first-hand, however, whether engaged in bake wars or her warm way with anyone she met, he quickly realized she was the real thing…
I loved the sweetness and the heat between these two as they bantered and courted, getting to know each other one date at a time. When Nina was threatened, Tate was the first in line to stand between her and the deadly threat. Yeah, swoon doesn’t even begin to describe it…
Full of witty banter and a blood-pounding suspense, this story was a one-sitting read that had me wonderfully lost in Rifle Creek from the first page to the last… I am hooked on what I hope will be a long, long series!
February 10, 2022
Un libro entretenido, se pasa un buen rato si vas preparada para lo que te vas a encontrar. Muchos tópicos con personajes masculinos militares, policías, grandes salvadores. Lo que nos hemos leído muchas veces antes.
August 1, 2020
Amazing new series❤️
Lethal Edge is the first book in a new series by Kaylea and it’s amazing❣️Nina moves to Rifle Creek for a fresh start and is staying in close proximity to her bestie. When her bestie’s work partner arrives for dinner her first night, she’s surprised to see it’s Tate, the handsome, sexy man she met earlier in the day when he was rear ended😱
This story is exactly what I expect when I read something by Kaylea - it has suspense, action, romance and great characters😍 I also loved the added bonus of the bake off wars😜A must read new series and author🤩
Lethal Edge is the first book in a new series by Kaylea and it’s amazing❣️Nina moves to Rifle Creek for a fresh start and is staying in close proximity to her bestie. When her bestie’s work partner arrives for dinner her first night, she’s surprised to see it’s Tate, the handsome, sexy man she met earlier in the day when he was rear ended😱
This story is exactly what I expect when I read something by Kaylea - it has suspense, action, romance and great characters😍 I also loved the added bonus of the bake off wars😜A must read new series and author🤩
August 3, 2020
Lethal Indeed
Welcome to the town of Rifle Creek! Kaylea Cross never disappoints in her amazing way of weaving a story together. Action, romance and suspense, this story had it all. I can't wait to see all the twists and turns this new series has in store for us.
Welcome to the town of Rifle Creek! Kaylea Cross never disappoints in her amazing way of weaving a story together. Action, romance and suspense, this story had it all. I can't wait to see all the twists and turns this new series has in store for us.
July 30, 2020
LETHAL EDGE is the first instalment in Kaylea Cross’ contemporary, adult RIFLE CREEK romantic suspense series set in Rifle Creek, Montana. This is college professor Dr. Nina Gomez, and Detective Tate Baldwin’s story line.
Told from several third person perspectives including Tate and Nina LETHA EDGE follows the building romance and relationship between college professor Dr. Nina Gomez, and Detective Tate Baldwin. A car accident would bring Nina Gomez face to face with Detective Tate Baldwin, having no idea that Tate is her new roommates partner at work. An attack at a local bar involving two students, finds Nina struggling with memories of the past when one of the victims is found assaulted and dead. As Nina battles with what happened, the killer, once again, sets his sights on Nina, in an effort to finish the job he had been unable to complete. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Nina and Tate, and the potential fall out as Nina is targeted in an effort to silence our heroine against what happened in the past.
Detective Tate Baldwin is a US army soldier, is hoping to start up a ranch and training facility, with two of his former buddies, geared toward private security but in the mean time Tate finds himself on the search for a killer who is targeting women at the University of Montana. Discovering the woman with who he is falling in love may be the killer’s next victim, Tate must act quickly before it is too late.
The relationship between Tate and Nina is one of immediate attraction that began with an accident that would pull our couple together when they quick discover that Nina is Tate’s work partner Avery’s new roommate. Believing himself not worthy of his own happily ever after Tate reveals he is no romantic but acts on instinct where Nina is involved. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Tate’s niece Rylee; Nina’s best friend and Tate’s work partner Avery, and former army buddy Mason; as well as neighbor Curt Larsen and his fainting goats, and spinster sisters Bev and Pat whose friendly baking competition with Nina gets out of hand.
LETHAL EDGE is a story of power, vengeance and obsession; relationships, friendships, family and love. The premise is intriguing and edgy; the characters are spirited and sassy; the romance is tender and provocative.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from several third person perspectives including Tate and Nina LETHA EDGE follows the building romance and relationship between college professor Dr. Nina Gomez, and Detective Tate Baldwin. A car accident would bring Nina Gomez face to face with Detective Tate Baldwin, having no idea that Tate is her new roommates partner at work. An attack at a local bar involving two students, finds Nina struggling with memories of the past when one of the victims is found assaulted and dead. As Nina battles with what happened, the killer, once again, sets his sights on Nina, in an effort to finish the job he had been unable to complete. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Nina and Tate, and the potential fall out as Nina is targeted in an effort to silence our heroine against what happened in the past.
Detective Tate Baldwin is a US army soldier, is hoping to start up a ranch and training facility, with two of his former buddies, geared toward private security but in the mean time Tate finds himself on the search for a killer who is targeting women at the University of Montana. Discovering the woman with who he is falling in love may be the killer’s next victim, Tate must act quickly before it is too late.
The relationship between Tate and Nina is one of immediate attraction that began with an accident that would pull our couple together when they quick discover that Nina is Tate’s work partner Avery’s new roommate. Believing himself not worthy of his own happily ever after Tate reveals he is no romantic but acts on instinct where Nina is involved. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Tate’s niece Rylee; Nina’s best friend and Tate’s work partner Avery, and former army buddy Mason; as well as neighbor Curt Larsen and his fainting goats, and spinster sisters Bev and Pat whose friendly baking competition with Nina gets out of hand.
LETHAL EDGE is a story of power, vengeance and obsession; relationships, friendships, family and love. The premise is intriguing and edgy; the characters are spirited and sassy; the romance is tender and provocative.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 28, 2020
What a start to a new series! I'm in love with Rifle Creek already. I'm a sucker for a small town with lots of drama!
Nina may be an astrophysicist but she is also an eternal optimist and a sincere romantic. She may have the worst luck on the dating front though, being smart doesn't mean making the brightest choices when it comes to dates!
Tate is a veteran and now a detective with the small Rifle Creek Sheriffs department. Along with his partner Avery, who is kickass in every way possible, they take on everything the department throws at them. Tate no longer believes in happily ever after, he escaped a toxic relationship with someone who just wanted present after present to show how he felt about her.
But meeting Nina, who is Avery's bestie and landlord, he's trying not to envision her as his! She is everything he is not. She is light and optimism and he is doom and gloom! But what follows is a wonderful development from attraction, like, lust and love! They have just about the best date ever. Tate sure knows how to plan a night out!
I loved that Tate just sees Avery as his partner, not female partner. She has his back and he has hers. He knows she is capable and doesn't baby or coddle her. They spark off each other like brother and sister!
Some of the best scenes, however, come from a gun-toting goat farmer and two sisters who put GBBO to shame! Tate's new business partner is also Gallant by name, Gallant by nature but also has a streak of playboy a mile wide!
Nina may be an astrophysicist but she is also an eternal optimist and a sincere romantic. She may have the worst luck on the dating front though, being smart doesn't mean making the brightest choices when it comes to dates!
Tate is a veteran and now a detective with the small Rifle Creek Sheriffs department. Along with his partner Avery, who is kickass in every way possible, they take on everything the department throws at them. Tate no longer believes in happily ever after, he escaped a toxic relationship with someone who just wanted present after present to show how he felt about her.
But meeting Nina, who is Avery's bestie and landlord, he's trying not to envision her as his! She is everything he is not. She is light and optimism and he is doom and gloom! But what follows is a wonderful development from attraction, like, lust and love! They have just about the best date ever. Tate sure knows how to plan a night out!
I loved that Tate just sees Avery as his partner, not female partner. She has his back and he has hers. He knows she is capable and doesn't baby or coddle her. They spark off each other like brother and sister!
Some of the best scenes, however, come from a gun-toting goat farmer and two sisters who put GBBO to shame! Tate's new business partner is also Gallant by name, Gallant by nature but also has a streak of playboy a mile wide!
May 18, 2021
With each book I read from this author I like her more !
This book was really good. I liked that there was a good balance between romance and suspense. The first half of the book is about Tate and Nina getting to know each other and starting dating, while the second half is about what happened to Nina and Rylee and action escalating rapidly.
I really liked Nina. She was fun, and nerdy and a romantic at heart. You could really tell she was someone genuinely nice and easy to be around. I liked that you couldn’t tell what she had been through merely months before, she did not let it get her down, she kept dating and enjoying life. In the second half of the book you understand that she had buried her trauma and when faced with the fact that her silence was actually putting others in danger she was brave enough to act immediately, and even though she was scared to death I was in awe of her ability to think under pressure and save herself.
Tate was a strong male lead. I loved him, and I wish we had seen more of him with his niece.
What I am starting to get and love about this author is that she makes strong heroines and male characters who are protective without being overbearing or downright ass*hole alphas.
Can't wait to read more of her work!
This book was really good. I liked that there was a good balance between romance and suspense. The first half of the book is about Tate and Nina getting to know each other and starting dating, while the second half is about what happened to Nina and Rylee and action escalating rapidly.
I really liked Nina. She was fun, and nerdy and a romantic at heart. You could really tell she was someone genuinely nice and easy to be around. I liked that you couldn’t tell what she had been through merely months before, she did not let it get her down, she kept dating and enjoying life. In the second half of the book you understand that she had buried her trauma and when faced with the fact that her silence was actually putting others in danger she was brave enough to act immediately, and even though she was scared to death I was in awe of her ability to think under pressure and save herself.
Tate was a strong male lead. I loved him, and I wish we had seen more of him with his niece.
What I am starting to get and love about this author is that she makes strong heroines and male characters who are protective without being overbearing or downright ass*hole alphas.
Can't wait to read more of her work!
August 1, 2020
Nina is a Professor who has recently relocated to Montana and is looking forward to a new job and leaving her past where it belongs. She is well educated in the field of science however when it comes to love she believes that everyone has a soulmate and that she just hasn’t found hers yet.
Tate is a natural protector as evidenced by his previous career as a Marine to his current career as a detective and his plan to open a security business that will not only help those he served with but help others protect themselves as well. After the way his last relationship has ended he has no interest in going down that road again but when it comes to his family he loves deeply.
Fate seems to be throwing them together both personally and professionally as not only is she his partner’s roommate, but she has become a part of the current case he is investigating. Although they couldn’t be more different there is no denying the attraction between them so when she attracts the attention of the wrong person there isn’t anything he won’t do to keep her safe.
The characters are compelling, the storyline captivating and the intrigue will keep you guessing until the end.
Tate is a natural protector as evidenced by his previous career as a Marine to his current career as a detective and his plan to open a security business that will not only help those he served with but help others protect themselves as well. After the way his last relationship has ended he has no interest in going down that road again but when it comes to his family he loves deeply.
Fate seems to be throwing them together both personally and professionally as not only is she his partner’s roommate, but she has become a part of the current case he is investigating. Although they couldn’t be more different there is no denying the attraction between them so when she attracts the attention of the wrong person there isn’t anything he won’t do to keep her safe.
The characters are compelling, the storyline captivating and the intrigue will keep you guessing until the end.
December 14, 2020
A scientist, that is also a hopeless romantic, falls for detective (former Marine) that has given up on love. Nina and Tate can’t fight the chemistry between them, however one wants a casual fling and other want the whole fairy tale with the HEA.
Nina is a ultimate optimism, so I was stunned when she revealed the secret she was keeping. When Nina finds herself in danger the storyline becomes very intense. Tate goes into protective mode and realizes he will to anything to save the woman he loves.
The supporting roles are well casted. You know something is brewing between Mason and Avery. Both Nina and Tate have colorful neighbors in this small Montana town.
One personal comment, I love the hero’s name. I even had Tate on the top of my boy’s name list when I was pregnant, but my husband veto it.
Nina is a ultimate optimism, so I was stunned when she revealed the secret she was keeping. When Nina finds herself in danger the storyline becomes very intense. Tate goes into protective mode and realizes he will to anything to save the woman he loves.
The supporting roles are well casted. You know something is brewing between Mason and Avery. Both Nina and Tate have colorful neighbors in this small Montana town.
One personal comment, I love the hero’s name. I even had Tate on the top of my boy’s name list when I was pregnant, but my husband veto it.
August 3, 2020
What a way to blast off a new series!!!
Great new town, quirky townsfolk, a seriously gorgeous setting that feels like coming home after just one book, I really couldn’t ask for more.
Nina and Tate are both adorable but you know Tate is sexy, masculine adorable and Nina is totally geeky adorable...lol
I can’t wait for more this going to be an amazing series.
Fast-paced and thrillingly sexy with a sweetness that blew me away.
Great new town, quirky townsfolk, a seriously gorgeous setting that feels like coming home after just one book, I really couldn’t ask for more.
Nina and Tate are both adorable but you know Tate is sexy, masculine adorable and Nina is totally geeky adorable...lol
I can’t wait for more this going to be an amazing series.
Fast-paced and thrillingly sexy with a sweetness that blew me away.
September 23, 2020
I loved this book so much.
It was definitely a great way to kick off a series.
With twists you'll never see coming, prepare to be on the edge of your seat from cover to cover.
Don't let the small town setting fool you, there are plenty of places for the evil to lurk.
With loveable characters and a plot that'll keep you guessing, I definitely recommend and am diving straight into the next book.
It was definitely a great way to kick off a series.
With twists you'll never see coming, prepare to be on the edge of your seat from cover to cover.
Don't let the small town setting fool you, there are plenty of places for the evil to lurk.
With loveable characters and a plot that'll keep you guessing, I definitely recommend and am diving straight into the next book.
Want to read
May 2, 2021Snagged for $1.99 on Chirp. Jeffrey Kafer & Heather Costa narrate.
Want to read
May 7, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (5/7/2021)!🎁
May 24, 2021
2.5 stars
Not the best romantic suspense, but not the worst either. It’s free on Apple Books, but the others in the series are not and it’s just not worth it to continue this series.
Not the best romantic suspense, but not the worst either. It’s free on Apple Books, but the others in the series are not and it’s just not worth it to continue this series.
October 19, 2023
3.5 Stars
This was fairly good but it didn't read like a Kaylea Cross story, certainly wasn't up to the usual standard I am used to hence the lower rating.
This was fairly good but it didn't read like a Kaylea Cross story, certainly wasn't up to the usual standard I am used to hence the lower rating.
July 22, 2020
Review coming soon.
January 25, 2024
Nina is an astrophysicist and a romantic who is paired up with her best friend’s work partner, Tate, who is a detective. The series will follow Tate and his buddies who are all former military and opening a training business together. Tate’s niece is a freshman at the university where Nina is professor and there’s a serial rapist who relies on drugging his victims. I read the ebook. 4/5.
July 29, 2020
It’s no secret I’m a romantic suspense junkie. It finally dawned on me the other day what started it all. I cut my teeth on Nancy Drew mysteries, and while those aren’t romance books, they definitely planted the seeds of my love of mystery/thriller/suspense books. Then along came Nora Roberts, and being the avid gardener she is, she nurtured those seeds and caused them to grow amazingly well. Now, I have several favorite romantic suspense authors, and Kaylea Cross definitely is high-ranking on that favorites list. I might have missed some of her earlier books because my kids were little and demanded much more of my time, which left precious few hours I could devote to reading. But I’ve devoured almost every book of hers since I was lucky enough to stumble onto my first Kaylea Cross book somewhere around 2014. None of them have disappointed me and neither did Lethal Edge.
What I liked about the book: Obviously, the mystery is first and foremost. Her plots are well thought out and the breadcrumbs always seem to be just enough to keep you reading without giving it all away until just the right moment. But my favorite part of this book is our heroine. She’s smart. Sassy. Fun. Unique. And despite having lived through something very horrible, it hasn’t taken away her joy of living her life to the absolute fullest. I love the diversity of Kaylea Cross’s characters. They never seem to fit a certain mold or pattern. Of course, there’s a swoony hero. He’s her compliment, but she’s no shrinking violet. Oh…the food wars was a fun side story too!
NICUnurse’s Rating: Please don’t ever start a book by Kaylea Cross at bedtime. Just trust me on this one. Her books are usually fast-paced page-turners, and you will finish them sometime around 4 am. Lethal Edge will do the same thing to you. I feel like I say this each time I review one of her books, but it’s so true for me: It’s really hard to be disappointed in anything written by Kaylea Cross. Lethal Edge was a gripping, fast-paced story that had me sucked in from page one to the very end.
I give Lethal Edge by Kaylea Cross 4.5 out of 5 stars!
What I liked about the book: Obviously, the mystery is first and foremost. Her plots are well thought out and the breadcrumbs always seem to be just enough to keep you reading without giving it all away until just the right moment. But my favorite part of this book is our heroine. She’s smart. Sassy. Fun. Unique. And despite having lived through something very horrible, it hasn’t taken away her joy of living her life to the absolute fullest. I love the diversity of Kaylea Cross’s characters. They never seem to fit a certain mold or pattern. Of course, there’s a swoony hero. He’s her compliment, but she’s no shrinking violet. Oh…the food wars was a fun side story too!
NICUnurse’s Rating: Please don’t ever start a book by Kaylea Cross at bedtime. Just trust me on this one. Her books are usually fast-paced page-turners, and you will finish them sometime around 4 am. Lethal Edge will do the same thing to you. I feel like I say this each time I review one of her books, but it’s so true for me: It’s really hard to be disappointed in anything written by Kaylea Cross. Lethal Edge was a gripping, fast-paced story that had me sucked in from page one to the very end.
I give Lethal Edge by Kaylea Cross 4.5 out of 5 stars!
July 31, 2020
Blog tour post with teasers: https://reesesreviews.blogspot.com/20...
Kaylea Cross is such an amazing author. I am always enthralled when I open one of her books. Lethal Edge is no different. Such an enjoyable story from beginning to end.
Tate is an ex-military detective living in a small town who is over love and being a detective. He has no more spark in his life. When he's rear-ended and comes face-to-face with his partners roommate, Nina, who stirs in something he never expected. Now he's finding any excuse to run into her, even though he's somewhat put off by the fact that she believes in true and forever love.
Nina has a secret she's kept buried for almost a year and after she decided she needed a change. Moving to the small town where her best friend lives, she instantly falls in love with the college and the town. She even finds herself falling for Tate. Everything seems to be perfect except for the fact that Nina's past is coming back to haunt her and Tate's family.
I really enjoyed this story. Nina suffered a trauma, but I love that it didn't define her as a character or shape the way she saw the world. She was such a fun character and I couldn't have loved her more.
Lethal Edge is a must-read and I can't wait for Kaylea Cross to release the rest of the series.
Kaylea Cross is such an amazing author. I am always enthralled when I open one of her books. Lethal Edge is no different. Such an enjoyable story from beginning to end.
Tate is an ex-military detective living in a small town who is over love and being a detective. He has no more spark in his life. When he's rear-ended and comes face-to-face with his partners roommate, Nina, who stirs in something he never expected. Now he's finding any excuse to run into her, even though he's somewhat put off by the fact that she believes in true and forever love.
Nina has a secret she's kept buried for almost a year and after she decided she needed a change. Moving to the small town where her best friend lives, she instantly falls in love with the college and the town. She even finds herself falling for Tate. Everything seems to be perfect except for the fact that Nina's past is coming back to haunt her and Tate's family.
I really enjoyed this story. Nina suffered a trauma, but I love that it didn't define her as a character or shape the way she saw the world. She was such a fun character and I couldn't have loved her more.
Lethal Edge is a must-read and I can't wait for Kaylea Cross to release the rest of the series.
November 2, 2020
I adored everything about this story and every moment I spent lost in Rifle Creek! Tate was the best mix of rough and tough, protective and loving, totally complimenting Nina's bubbly sweetness, gentleness, and vulnerable strength. Add in the family, neighbors, best friends, the small-town vibe, and some star-gazing and you can't help but wanna stay stuck in the story long after it's over.
I don't have words for it, but this story just hit me a bit deeper and will stick with me. Several KC books have a spot on my favorites shelf, but this one stands out among the best of the best.
I'm looking forward to what's to come next in Rifle Creek.
I don't have words for it, but this story just hit me a bit deeper and will stick with me. Several KC books have a spot on my favorites shelf, but this one stands out among the best of the best.
I'm looking forward to what's to come next in Rifle Creek.
July 28, 2020
Tate is former Military and now a Detective with the Rocky Creek Sheriff's department. Originally from Canada where his sister still lives, he is tasked with bringing his niece Rylee to college in Missoula. He really was having a hard time with it, and it touched my heart, especially as he talks to his sister Tala as he heads home. It's during that call which was hands free with his truck's technology, when a car veered out to run the red light and he's hit from behind.
Nina's car was behind those involved and when she sees the car that hit the truck stopped partway into the intersection. She pulls over to check on them. This is her first meeting with Tate, he takes charge and together they help the woman in the car. Unfortunately neither introduces themselves.
A fate happens, Tate is invited to dinner at his partner Avery's home. She wants him to help her friend move around some stuff in the suite she's renting out. Turns out the friend is Nina and as they dine and get her set up he finds himself a little more than attracted to her.
I love the way Tate isn't intimidated by Nina's degrees and is truly interested in her for who she is. Nina is a PhD Astrophysicist teaching at the same college his niece is attending, and she manages to present her love of the stars to him in a unique way.
That isn't all there is to this story as a serial rapist hits close to home. An investigation that Tate was on originally but no longer now that he's with Rock Creek's department.
I love Tate's neighbor, he reminds me of Wilson from the old Tim Allen show. Always peeking over the fence. We also meet Mason and his dog Ric as they come to town to investigate the possibilities of a nearby property.
Plenty of suspense, tears, laughter, some sizzling heat and not just one romance as this tale unfolds. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Nina's car was behind those involved and when she sees the car that hit the truck stopped partway into the intersection. She pulls over to check on them. This is her first meeting with Tate, he takes charge and together they help the woman in the car. Unfortunately neither introduces themselves.
A fate happens, Tate is invited to dinner at his partner Avery's home. She wants him to help her friend move around some stuff in the suite she's renting out. Turns out the friend is Nina and as they dine and get her set up he finds himself a little more than attracted to her.
I love the way Tate isn't intimidated by Nina's degrees and is truly interested in her for who she is. Nina is a PhD Astrophysicist teaching at the same college his niece is attending, and she manages to present her love of the stars to him in a unique way.
That isn't all there is to this story as a serial rapist hits close to home. An investigation that Tate was on originally but no longer now that he's with Rock Creek's department.
I love Tate's neighbor, he reminds me of Wilson from the old Tim Allen show. Always peeking over the fence. We also meet Mason and his dog Ric as they come to town to investigate the possibilities of a nearby property.
Plenty of suspense, tears, laughter, some sizzling heat and not just one romance as this tale unfolds. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 28, 2020
What a captivating start to the new series! Lethal Edge (Rifle Creek #1) by Kaylea Cross has it all; romance, suspense, a villain, heroes. Humor, two great main characters and a supporting Rifle Creek community cast that is such a delight. Old, seventies and young, college kids make up this cast. As far as the older neighbors go, they provide some of the humor in this story especially with the unusual animals one of them owns.
Dr. Nina Gomez is such a contrast in terms of being a romantic and a level-headed logical scientist. I like how she is not cold but has a warm and fuzzy personality. This character is so likable from the very beginning when she stopped to help those in need. Former military now police officer Tate Baldwin is just a big teddy bear. Yes, a tough, no nonsense officer when necessary but he is a softy at heart when you see how he treats his family and older neighbors. Easy on the eyes and easy to love, even if he is a non-believer in love. Throw these two together and you have a wonderful romance that sizzles. Then the danger comes calling!
The plot is tightly woven with even random seemingly observations or comments important. I have learned to read Ms. Cross’ books closely because there will some foreshadowing, all will connect in the end even if you are not sure until the end. This is a wonderful case of that very thing.
No matter whether it is summer or winter where you are at, you can take an exciting vacation to Rifle Creek, Montana. Like me when you finish the book you can’t wait until you can go back again with the next book in the series. 5 Stars all the way for plot, characters and setting.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dr. Nina Gomez is such a contrast in terms of being a romantic and a level-headed logical scientist. I like how she is not cold but has a warm and fuzzy personality. This character is so likable from the very beginning when she stopped to help those in need. Former military now police officer Tate Baldwin is just a big teddy bear. Yes, a tough, no nonsense officer when necessary but he is a softy at heart when you see how he treats his family and older neighbors. Easy on the eyes and easy to love, even if he is a non-believer in love. Throw these two together and you have a wonderful romance that sizzles. Then the danger comes calling!
The plot is tightly woven with even random seemingly observations or comments important. I have learned to read Ms. Cross’ books closely because there will some foreshadowing, all will connect in the end even if you are not sure until the end. This is a wonderful case of that very thing.
No matter whether it is summer or winter where you are at, you can take an exciting vacation to Rifle Creek, Montana. Like me when you finish the book you can’t wait until you can go back again with the next book in the series. 5 Stars all the way for plot, characters and setting.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 7, 2021
Sadly, Not One Of Ms. Cross’s Better Works
Let me begin by stating that I absolutely LOVE Kaylea Cross and her amazing books. Due to this fact I find it difficult to have to give one of her books anything less than 4 stars. 😢 However, being a fan does not mean …. praise every book she writes regardless of the quality of the storyline. I tried to love this story and become totally absorbed in the main characters, but it just wasn’t to be. Ms. Cross skirted around the periphery never delving into the hearts and minds of Tate and Nina which is so essential for me to really “FEEL” them and care about them.
Ironically, it was all the secondary characters in this story that drew me in. I simply loved Mason and his therapy dog Ric. The curious, competitive, older neighbors were quite entertaining, and Mrs. Engleman and Curt made me smile. But Tate and Nina were, unfortunately, very forgettable.
I have to say that the incident involving Tate’s niece, Rylee and her roommate at the bar was tragic and disturbing in the sense that Tate, himself, did not get involved in the search for the missing roommate, despite the fact that he is law enforcement. Instead he takes Nina out and makes love to her. Not the right time Nate!!!!
Book two is Mason’s story and since I still have faith in this author’s ability to pen a stellar story I am continuing with the next installment. While writing this review I am three quarters into that book and have to say this…. She redeemed herself!!!! MUCH BETTER.
If you are like me and enjoy Audible, the narrators are just “so-so.” I just deal with them to continue with the story. I will finish the series but the bottom line is that this is not one of her finest works.
Let me begin by stating that I absolutely LOVE Kaylea Cross and her amazing books. Due to this fact I find it difficult to have to give one of her books anything less than 4 stars. 😢 However, being a fan does not mean …. praise every book she writes regardless of the quality of the storyline. I tried to love this story and become totally absorbed in the main characters, but it just wasn’t to be. Ms. Cross skirted around the periphery never delving into the hearts and minds of Tate and Nina which is so essential for me to really “FEEL” them and care about them.
Ironically, it was all the secondary characters in this story that drew me in. I simply loved Mason and his therapy dog Ric. The curious, competitive, older neighbors were quite entertaining, and Mrs. Engleman and Curt made me smile. But Tate and Nina were, unfortunately, very forgettable.
I have to say that the incident involving Tate’s niece, Rylee and her roommate at the bar was tragic and disturbing in the sense that Tate, himself, did not get involved in the search for the missing roommate, despite the fact that he is law enforcement. Instead he takes Nina out and makes love to her. Not the right time Nate!!!!
Book two is Mason’s story and since I still have faith in this author’s ability to pen a stellar story I am continuing with the next installment. While writing this review I am three quarters into that book and have to say this…. She redeemed herself!!!! MUCH BETTER.
If you are like me and enjoy Audible, the narrators are just “so-so.” I just deal with them to continue with the story. I will finish the series but the bottom line is that this is not one of her finest works.
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