Без спомен

Courting Justice #2

by Lexi Blake, Лекси Блейк, Вера Паунова (Translator)

Любовта и законът се преплитат, за да осъдят сърцето...

Когато клиентът на Айла Шейн, бившата футболна звезда Трей Адамс, е открит да държи в обятията си мъртвата си съпруга, без спомен за случилото сe, тя е наясно, че трябва да намери опитен адвокат по наказателно право. Дейвид Кормак от „Гарисън, Кормак и Лолес“ е акула в съдебната зала и точно адвокатът, от който клиентът ѝ се нуждае.

Да поеме случая на Адамс, за Дейвид означава отново да се върне в света на професионалния футбол, който е част от миналото му, и да се изправи лице в лицe с най-големия си страх.

Дейвид и Айла започват работа по делото, но то се заплита все повече и повече. И докато чувствата им се задълбочават, случаят поема смъртоносен обрат, който би могъл да промени отношенията им завинаги…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Mystery, Adult, Smut

340 pages, Paperback

First published January 8, 2019

About the author

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn't until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.

In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.

In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.

Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....

For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).

Reviews

[Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ahhh Romantic Suspense at its finest. I can't repeat it often enough: Lexi Blake is one of the best if you're in the mood for this genre and want a unique plot.

Isla loves contracts, business agreements and negotiations. When former football superstar and close friend and client Trey Adams is under investigation for killing his wife Portia, former NFL player now criminal defense attorney David Cormack is her best bet. He knows the dangers and sorrows of somebody living with chronic traumatic encephalopathy better than anyone - he may be facing this disease in the future, too.

See? Totally unique. I love this storyline so much. CTE is an actual disease and the author did extensive research on the issue professional athletes may have to deal with.

When David meets Isla he makes one major mistake. He totally underestimates the woman, who seems to only see the good in people. It almost seems like he thought her to be a bit of a pushover. But if she sets her mind to something she believes in she becomes a single-minded warrior princess who won't take no for an answer.

“See, this is where you’ve underestimated your opponent, Counselor. You see my kindness and kind of gooey middle and think it’s weakness."

David and Isla fall for each other very fast but I totally bought it. He struggles for most of the book with the decision whether to make a go of a serious relationship - what if he has CTE? I had to remind myself a couple of times that fear isn't rational and that he will understand ultimately that there are no guarantees in life but he did try my patience a little bit.

“You want some guarantee that life is going to turn out like you want it, but that’s not the way it goes. Do you intend to spend the rest of your life without love?"

Other than that he was a sweet and sexy man.

Isla's kindness and gentleness and her steely spine make her one of my favorite heroines of all the books by Lexi Blake I've read so far. When her strong will makes an appearance the sass comes out to play as well and I had so much fun with her giving it straight to her man and telling him to get his head out of his ass.

“Taking care of each other through the good and the bad and the desperate is what family does. And if you don’t see that, then maybe you aren’t the man for me. I don’t know. I’m going to sleep on it.”

I loved the suspense which isn't really a surprise to me. There are some twists and turns in typical Lexi Blake fashion, which had me reconsider my theories a couple of times.

Evidence of Desire is a worthy and excellent addition to the Courting Justice series. I was thoroughly entertained and immersed in the story and loved every word of it. I think it was even better than the first book. Now, it seems like we've met Noah Lawless's love match and I think she'll give him a run for his money if I'm right. I can't wait to get my hands on it!

Any family raised by Isla Shayne would stick together. And if the darkness came, she would be the light.

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've been eagerly anticipating the second book in the Courting Justice series. I really enjoyed the first installment and I was itching for more of these sexy lawyers. Unfortunately as much as I wanted to love this book, I just never connected to the story or the characters. At first, I was eager to turn the pages. And then somewhere around the 25% mark, it all began to lose sizzle for me and I began to get bored. The characters felt two-dimensional and held no spark for me. I couldn't feel any chemistry between them and as such, struggled to connect to the romance. The one thing that kept me turning the pages was the suspense and that unfortunately took a predictable turn at the end with a twist I guessed from the very beginning.

I adore all things Lexi Blake, so I'm super bummed this one didn't work for me. I wanted so badly to love it, but sadly the only emotion it managed to drag out of me was sheer boredom.


ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

Find me on:

[Теодор Панов · Rating 3 out of 5]

Книгата е продължение на „Под закрила“, където главен герой беше адвокатът Хенри Гарисън. Тук ролята на главното действащо лице се поема от Дейвид Кормак – най-добър приятел на Хенри и също адвокат и бивш спортист, който беше част и от първата книга и впечатленията ми от него бяха, че е леко скучен персонаж. Та сега ми беше интересно как ще се представи в тази книга, ами… продължава все така леко да скучнее като образ (ясно, че е с цел да се разграничава от Хенри и между двамата да има контраст).

Забавното обаче е, че самият той ясно си осъзнава, че е скучен типаж и дори на едно място в книгата открито си го казва.

Криминалният случай, който се разглежда, е ок, но отстъпва на този от първата книга, който беше изпълнен с далеч по-силно напрежение и обрати.

Краят горе-долу беше на ниво, та поразмърда малко монотонното действие.

Иначе първата книга определено е по-добрата от двете.

Оценка – 3.4 ⭐ (3 за цялостното представяне на книгата + 0,2 за края; + 0,2 за корицата).

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

LIVE AMAZON :https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...

5 stars

I have to say that I enjoyed this one even more than the first book!From the first pages I find myself hooked!In my opinion it would be better if you read the first book before you read this one.



I loved the characters and especially David.He was exactly what I was looking for in a book boyfriend.Isla is also great and I really liked them together too.

This story has a little bit of everything I like, an intense romance , suspense and drama!Another fantastic read from Lexi Blake!!

 

  

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a pretty captivating story form the beginning to end. I loved Gabe and Isla but it was also Trey and Portia's story that had me riveted. You really feel like you get two love stories in one. Sadly, one ended in tragedy but it was still very beautiful. I almost wish we could get a book on Trey and Portia, that's how much their story intrigued me.

Due to the nature of what happens right in the beginning, we get a whole host of side characters and each one played a big role to the overall story. Each character drew a reaction out of me, good and bad. This had a "who did it" theme and while I suspected right away who it was, I was still drawn in to the whole investigation. There was also a reason to the crime and that one stumped me at first.

As for the main couple, I loved David. He had a fear that threatened his relationship with Isla but the way Isla handled it made me completely ok with his resistance. When he wasn't resisting, he was pretty alpha with her and I like that in my heroes. Isla was just an all around nice woman. Some may have viewed her as weak but she was just a caring person. When she needed to fight, she fought.

I really enjoyed Evidence of Desire and would recommend to pretty much any reader who wants a good love story and a good puzzle to solve.

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lexi Blake has done a wonderful job of combining romance with a murder mystery filled with tentacles of suspense. Who murdered the beautiful socialite and dedicated wife? Was it her mentally unstable husband, a famous, former athlete suffering from debilitating illness caused by head trauma?

Isla Shayne, the Adams’s family personal lawyer and David Cormack, former football player, turned high-power defense attorney must piece together what really happened or an innocent man may go to jail. On the way, these two will find a connection of the heart, but can they find a future together when one of them fears becoming a burden?

Fabulous characters, great suspense and an ending that I never saw coming! Get your romance and a strong mystery all under one cover in EVIDENCE OF DESIRE!

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley!

Series: Courting Justice - Book 2
Publisher: Berkley (January 8, 2019)
Publication Date: January 8, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got lost in this riveting murder mystery/romance…

Okay, I may have been just a tad disappointed this wasn’t Noah’s story but if you read Order of Protection than I’m sure I’m not alone. I recovered quickly, how could I not, as Isla and David were quickly embroiled in a murder mystery that was personal from the start…

Oh, this story was amazing! Whether it was front page news or battles they were silently waging, the connection they had weathered one huge bump after another. Isla was a firecracker who had endured a lot but came out still smiling, optimistic and, above all, open to love. David was her opposite in so many ways but the love he had for those closest to him could not be measured. Together, they could overcome anything and that theory was tested again and again…

This was romance, suspense and above all, love in its messy, multi-faceted forms. A great read! Though I still want/need Noah’s story (I’m so greedy)…. ~Diane, 4.5 stars

[Geri Reads · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this book just didn't take. I tried to push myself to finish because I've enjoyed much of Ms. Blake's books in the past but this one felt flat and uninspired. I didn't feel that much chemistry between David and Isla either and the mystery didn't capture my attention.

DNF.

ARC provided by the publisher

[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story with a nice twist at the end that was not expected.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have read many of Lexi‘s books in the past several years so when I picked this one up I knew I was in store for a treat. But what I didn’t realize is how beautifully she can blend a romance with a suspenseful murder mystery.

This story has so many positive attributes. I love David’s character. He has a wonderful soul and is not afraid to show his feelings and support. Isla is also an amazing character. Her heart and soul is just so kind and amazing. She also has that spunk and fire like a mama bear. Together the pair is a force to be reckoned with.

This is a story about lawyers and one of their cases. So we do get a bit of the gore factor and the authenticity of dealing with a true crime story. The romance is heated and the friend support characters are tight and fun.

This is a part two of a series and I did feel a bit out of sorts when it came to the supporting characters as I really didn’t know who they were. However, I didn’t feel it detracted from the story much at all.

I truly enjoyed the story and loved the link to pro sports and the attention to detail! With the plot twists and the beautiful romance, it was so easy to get caught up into this book.

Lexi Blake brings her fabulous talent to life with the rich detail and emotional connections we crave in our characters. Evidence of Desire is a great read!

* copy received for review consideration
full review- https://amidlifewife.com/evidence-of-...

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



A deliciously sexy suspenseful romance!!! Oh Lexi Blake, you have done it again with your latest release, Evidence of Desire. Without a doubt, this book is off the richter scales when it comes to heat, passion, intensity, and conflict of interest. With her strong bold characters, Blake pulls in her readers in with this story of David and Isla. With many layers and her intricate prose, Blake will have you totally smitten and blushing like crazy and all at the same time keep you on your toes with her added layer of suspense. So if you are looking for a romance that weaves excitement and intensity then look no further than this sizzling read.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isla Shayne is the family lawyer for retired linebacker Trey Adams and his family, she's used to helping them with business deals or purchasing property but when Trey is accused of murdering his wife she is in completely over her head. She knows Trey is innocent but with the evidence stacking up against him she needs help and there is no criminal attorney she can trust more than David Cormack. As an ex player himself David has a unique perspective on the health issues that Trey is battling and he will do whatever it takes to get his client the help he needs but unless they can figure out who the real murderer is Trey is looking at a life behind bars.

Evidence of Desire is the second story in Lexi Blake's Courting Justice series and I enjoyed it even more than the first book. The chemistry between Isla and David was great from the very beginning and I liked how open they were about the attraction they felt. There are no rules against them dating so they fall into a relationship very quickly but although they have very strong feelings for each other David has a reason to keep Isla at a distance. I have to admit the relationship did move very quickly, I would have preferred a slightly slower build up, but I liked them as a couple and thought they suited each other.

As far as the murder mystery went I had a very good idea who my main suspect was from very early on but I was wrong about their accomplice and hadn't guessed the whole story so the book did manage to surprise me. I also found it really interesting learning more about Trey's traumatic brain injury and how it affected his personality, it made life so difficult for his whole family but I loved the way his wife stood by him and how strong they were as a couple. That made it all the more heartbreaking that their story ended in tragedy though. I also liked that we got to catch up with the previous couple Win and Henry and I have a feeling I'm going to love Noah's story which I'm guessing will be up next.

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good lord, give me a sec to get my heart back in rhythm after finishing up Evidence of Desire. Man, that was some suspenseful romantic suspense right there . . .

In trying to keep Trey Adams out of jail, Isla Shayne hires David Cormack, who’s known as one of the best defense attorney’s in the US. He’s ruthless and thorough and will fight to defend his clients at all costs. But he’s also one of the most amazing and handsome man Isla have ever met.

David’s desire is to just do his job. Work is his focus—always has been. And nothing and no one will get in the way. Until Isla. Isla is everything David never truly knew he wanted in a woman. She’s smart, sexy and perfect for him.

But solving the murder and keeping Trey out of jail takes precedent over feelings—even those between Isla and David, well, until they just can’t keep those feelings to themselves anymore. Which makes David even more determined to find the true killer and keep Trey out of jail.

I couldn’t get enough of the romance blooming between Isla and David. They were in denial for quite some time—and then they just couldn’t deny it anymore. Even when David tried to put up his walls to “protect” Isla, she wouldn’t let him build them—she smashed each one down. And I couldn’t help but root for her to finally convince David to take a chance on their love.

I can’t wait for more in this fun, sexy, smart Courting Justice series. So looking forward to Noah’s story! ~ Missy, 4 stars

[Ренета Кирова · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5*
Книгата е романтичен трилър по жанр, а авторката включва герои от други свои поредици. Опитах се да чета за братята Лолес, но не ми допадна и се отказах. Тук се е справила малко по-добре, но изказът ѝ е тежичък, постоянно повтаря едно и също.
Айла и Дейвид се срещат при трагични обстоятелства. Порша, която е като майка за Айла, е убита. Обвинен е нейният съпруг, известен като най-добрия ръгби играч, но е диагностициран с ХТЕ (травматично мозъчно нараняване, което се получава при спортистите, поради честите контузии). Психиката на Трей е срината и той е неориентиран, не помни какво се е случило. Дейвид става негов адвокат, а Айла е близка със семейството и не вярва, че е виновен. Двамата се впускат да разберат истината и междувременно се влюбват.
Айла е силна героиня и не играеше игрички, също и Дейвид. Още отначало решиха, че има химия между тях и че са един за друг. Дейвид беше колебаещия се, въпреки чувствата си към Айла. Действието се забързва към края и има два обрата.
Според мен криминалните моменти повече се отдават на авторката, отколкото емоционалното описание на героите и флирта между тях. Беше ми интересно кой е истинският убиец и мотивите му, отколкото любовта между героите.

[Nerdy Dirty & Flirty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing freaking romance here!!! The main characters were my favorite part. David and Isla were a couple I loved reading about.

From the very first moment this story started, I was hooked on these characters. David with his confidence and swagger despite his fears for the future. Isla with her quiet strength and huge heart. They were so amazing as individuals and yet so perfect together.

The story itself was also great. There was mystery, danger, and oh so much romance. The relationship might have developed under intense circumstances, but from the beginning it was written in such a way that the foundation of the relationship still felt strong.

Overall I loved this book and highly recommend it and the whole series.

[Kalina Mincheva · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5*
Ами, свърши се със семейство Лолес и приятели. Не мога да кажа, че ще ми липсват, историите на всичките бяха толкова еднакви и скучни, мъжете - лигльовци с толкова пари, колкото и комплекси, и също толкова неориентирани с емоциите си. Женските персонажи бяха силни и на практика неуязвими, да им се чуди човек за какво са им тия хленчещи мъжаги. Нямаше никакво равновесие между характерите на двойките и това много ме дразнеше.
За тази книга конкретно обаче бях по-търпелива с Дейвид, заради здравословните обстоятелства, а и се предаде далеч по-лесно от всички други мъже вкрая.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚, 𝙄𝙨𝙡𝙖? 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚? 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙚 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”

It’s David’s turn for his happily ever after and OMG…it was PERFECTION! He was protective and demanding and oh so charming from the very start. Talk about a SWOONY ROMANCE, my friends! Isla Shayne was a pretty incredible heroine. She was strong and bold when she needed to be, but she also showed a vulnerable side and that spoke to the alpha side in our beloved hero. They both know loss. They both know pain. But together, they found something strong enough to leave their ghosts in the past. Their chemistry, in and out of the bedroom, was intense and passionate. There was sparks from the very start and the connection grew from there. With every turn of the page, my blushes turned a deeper shade of pink, but I just could not put it down! This was an outstanding love story full of passion, suspense, and romance! I can't wait to see what's next for this series!

𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗕 𝗜𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2V6fRPk

B&N: https://bit.ly/2HXfIaH

iBooks: https://apple.co/2qTxjJo

Kobo: https://bit.ly/2qVKSas

Google Play: https://bit.ly/2qUvj3w


[Mridula Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

A romantic suspense, 'Evidence of Desire' is a perfect mix of steamy romance, law stuff and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (which is an actual disease the atheletes suffer from).

Isla is an attorney. Her world is full of contracts and business negotiations. This is why she contacts David Cormack (a criminal defense attorney) when her client and formal football superstar- Trey Adams is charged with murdering his wife-Portia.

The spark between David and Isla is instant, and they pursue their mutual attraction (the falling for each other happened quite fast, but seemed legit), along with solving a murder mystery. The case details and the court proceedings are pretty intense throughout the book and it all looks so neat and organized (basically I wasn't confused one bit).

CTE, being an actual disease was written quite precisely. The immense amount of research done by the author helped support the plot and the characters, making it more intense and gripping.

Lexi Blake has once again delivered a powerful story, with characters who are gentle and kind, and characters who are mysterious in a freaky way. 'Evidence of Desire' is more than just a romance novel, it is entertaining, heartbreaking, and engrossing.

[Sherwood Smith]

This book combines a sexy romance, a legal procedural drama, and a murder mystery in which the main suspect, a former pro football player, suffers from CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) a degenerative brain disease mostly found in athletes.

I figured out who the murderer was from the gitgo, something I usually am clueless about. It was the introductory language that made me go hmmm, so instead of surprise, I had tension as the story unfolded and I waited to see if I was right.

The hero and heroine were sympathetic, and the story behind the murder victim and her accused husband was tragic. Lexi Blake did a good job with keeping the pacing going, and providing vivid and increasingly tense scenes.

This was something of an experiment for me, as I prefer there to be humor in my romances. Comedies of manners being my favorite.

It was a fast read, which I appreciated, but too much tragedy to hook me into this subgenre.

Copy provided by NetGalley

[Juliana · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had a hard time getting into this book and felt like I was missing vital information just because I didn't read the first book. I couldn't get invested in the main love story or who killed the wife. The love scenes were shmaltzy and cringe-worthy because of how cliche it was. I didn't even care who killed the wife by the end of the book. There was no tension in the climax either. Lexi Blake is not for me.

[The Romance Book Disciple (Samantha) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evidence of Desire is book 2 in the Courting Justice series but it stands alone. I enjoyed this one much more than book 1-I thought David and Isla were more enjoyable and relatable characters for sure!

Isla is a lawyer to the stars-she helps them with things like wills, business deals, and real estate. When one of her clients is accused of murder, she knows she needs to bring in a great criminal defense attorney. Enter David Cormack from Garrison, Cormack, and Lawless. David is a former pro athlete turned Harvard educated lawyer and agrees to help Isla defend Trey Adams, another former footballer who is accused of killing his wife.

CTE, or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, and its devastating effects plays a huge role in the story. Trey suffers from it and you get a glimpse into what life was like for him and his family. David is terrified he might end up with CTE as well. It invades his thoughts DAILY. David's fear might seem a bit premature or excessive, but I think lots of people experience some type of fear like this-cancer runs in a family and you become paranoid about getting cancer for example. Isla is the opposite-she isn't afraid of any illness and never lets it stand in the way of those she loves. Her fiancee died from leukemia and she stayed with him. Trey Adams is a close friend and she has never given up on him, even when he doesn't remember her. David and Isla have an instant lust for each other, but quickly realize its more than just lust. David's fears get in the way though; while this pushing away trope is annoying, I do understand his feelings. He can't fathom subjecting someone he loves to a life like Trey's family endured. So, irritating and dumb, but understandable.

Isla is one of my favorite heroines because she isn't afraid of her soft side. She doesn't pretend she can handle everything and be badass. She pukes when she finds the body. She cries when she is upset. She knows when she is in over her head and asks for help. I love this type of heroine because she is real.

Evidence of Desire was a great story beyond the characters, too. David and Isla are trying to figure out who killed Portia Adams: was it Trey? Could it have been an intruder? Can they trust Trey's memory at all? Throw in the fact that Isla is now the executor of the Adams' estate and you have 2 pissed off Adams children! The mystery is well done and while I figured out the major part of it before it was revealed, I didn't see the secondary reveal. Blake writes great suspense and very sexy romance, and Evidence of Desire is one of my new favorites!

 

  POV: 3rd
  Tears: no
  Trope: lawyers, coworkers, widow
  Triggers: none
  Series/Standalone: standalone within an interconnected series
  Cliffhanger: no
  HEA: yes

Buried Lies by Kaylea Cross, SEALs Honor by Megan Crane, Death is Not Enough by Karen Rose,...then you will probably like Evidence of Desire!

 

Evidence of Desire

 See full review on The Book Disciple

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take a romance, wrap it around a mystery, season it with adventure and serve it up with information about a disease few know anything about, and you have the delicious concoction that is Evidence of Desire.

While most of Lexi Blake’s books tend to center around people cobbling a family around them, this one deals more with keeping a family together in the face of major adversity.

Attorney Isla Shayne has lost her own family, but she considers Portia and Trey Adams’ family hers. When Portia is horribly murdered and she finds Trey with the body, she knows he didn’t do it, despite the fact he is suffering from CTE, a disease that causes its victims, usually athletes, to slowly lose their minds. She calls in David Cormack to defend him against possible charges of murder.

In working with David, she finds a spark she has never had before and the two quickly fall in love. But David, a former pro football player is concerned about his own future-not only is he a possible candidate for CTE, but his father has Alzheimer’s. His fear of being a burden to his family causes him to draw back from Isla at a critical point. Can she convince him that the good years they will have together will offset any possible pain in the future? And solve the mystery of Portia’s murder, keep the ambitious DA off her back at the same time?

This book, the second in the Courting Justice series, brings back characters from the first book, as well as featuring ties to the Masters and Mercenaries series. The are hints of Blake’s trademark snarky humor, but overall this is a serious book dealing with serious issues in a sensitive manner. However, the author leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy about the characters and the story. A must-read for mystery fans!

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books

Evidence of Desire is the second book in the Courting Justice Series, each book can be read as a standalone but you will find characters from each book run through the others this is because the series follows the men and women that work at a law firm. This is David's story.

David is a retired pro football player turned criminal defense attorney so when former linebacker Trey Adams' is in a bit of hot water his personal attorney, Isla Shane, calls David Cormack for help. Personally I really enjoyed Trey and Portia's story and I really, really wish we could have gotten more of it. Ms Blake if you're reading this, would you consider blessing us with a novella of their love story I think everyone who reads this book would really enjoy that. I know I would!!! ;)

Someone has killed the beautiful, loving, and devoted Portia. Trey suffers from CTE, Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, so it must be him right!?!?! Isla isn't convinced Trey did it because she is not only his personal attorney she is a close, trusted family friend. Well that is where David comes in, he needs to defend Trey and prove that it's possible someone else did it.

I liked the way Isla and David worked together but for me I just didn't feel the chemistry and I don't know why. The sexy times were plentiful and hot but I felt a disconnect, again I don't know why. I really enjoyed the story line and I liked both Isla and David so yes I would recommend this book. If you're looking for a Romantic Suspense that will keep you hooked until the very end I would recommend this book. Happy Reading!!!

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Не е ли именно това животът? Мигове неподправена красота, заобиколени от ежедневното.

Това бе някой, който знаеше, че думите имат значение, че намерението, вложено в тях, бе важно.

Не е нужно да се омъжиш за някого, та животът ти да е изпълнен със смисъл. Тъкмо обратното. Изпълни живота си със смисъл и тогава ще бъдеш готова да обичаш някого изцяло, защото ще обичаш себе си.

В човешката природа бе да си създадеш предварително мнение, а медиите щяха да се погрижат за това.

Да видиш нещо такова, да чуеш болката в нечий глас и да знаеш, че не можеш да направиш нищо, е едно от най-страшните неща, които човек може да преживее.

Ако си вършиш работата добросъвестно, влагайки всичко от себе си, ще трябва да се научиш да приемаш резултатите от усилията си. Не е задължително да бъдеш щастлива или доволна от тях, но трябва да ги приемаш.

Не можем да избираме какво ни се случва, но можем да останем гордо изправени, когато ни сполети нещо лошо. Когато хората са гадни с нас, не е нужно да им го връщаме. Не е нужно да оставим болката да ни помрачи.

[Tai Nelson-Barnes · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is my first book by Lexi Blake and I could not even finish it. I have no idea how anyone really could. I tried I really did, but this is not a book or an author for me. Sorry. I could not get into it.

[sabah™ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Hristina Tserovska · Rating 4 out of 5]

Книгата е увлекателна и доста заплетена. Рядко се случва, но ми беше по-интересно разплитането на убийството и какъв е мотивът, отколкото любовната история между Дейвид и Айла! Нямаше ги искрите или вълнението, но пък разбрах кой е убиеца след средата....така че ми хареса!
Допада ми стила на авторката и бих искала да прочета и другата й поредица за бодигардовете, част от която е и книгата за Мия (сестрата на братята Лопес). За Ноа също ще ми бъде интересно ако има отделна история.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just when I think Ms. Blake can't move me any more, she breaks out a tear jerker with this latest book. I loved this story and within the first few minutes, I'm tearing up. This is a second in a spin off series and it is glorious. For those who are starting out with this book, it's recommended to read the first book to understand the backstory of a couple of secondary characters. Still, this book can be read as a standalone.

Moving through this law firm, David is up for his love story. I liked David in the first book. Learning about his fears and how he became a lawyer is impressive. What I liked about his situation is how applicable it is in today's sports climate. Ms. Blake brings this touchy subject up front and center. She shows both sides and with compassion. She plays out some what if scenarios with heart breaking consequences. This plot driven story is filled with compassion and heart. Love it.

Isla is David's love interest and she is in a bind. Her number one client is accused of murder and it isn't pretty. This story kind of reminds me of a Bull episode but so much better. After watching so many Bull episodes, my mind is whirling as I try to poke holes with the DA's case. I like seeing it from the defendant's point of view. I also like how Ms. Blake doesn't make it easy for Isla and David to fight and defend Trey's case. The obstacles they run into make this story more complex and painful to witness. It is painful because it seems absolutely hopeless. How with this major conflict resolve? The twists and turns to reveal what really happens is done so well. This "who done it" story kept my attention riveted the entire time.

The romance element in this so sweet. Isla and David's whirlwind love affair goes up and down. What holds David back is a very serious fear. Their couple of steps forward and a few steps back are frustrating yet so realistic. Their intimacy is what I love best. The sexual tension is well done as ever Ms. Blake book is written. I did bypass the sex because it was too vanilla for me. It is their time together and the little moments of discovery which really made this romance so good. This romantic suspense is highly recommended to all romance readers.

*provided by NetGalley

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25--stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 8, 2019

Isla Shayne knows she's in over her head. As former all-star linebacker Trey Adams's personal lawyer, she's used to handling his business dealings and private financial matters, not murder charges. She needs to find an experienced criminal attorney who speaks her client's language. David Cormack of Garrison, Cormack and Lawless is exactly what she needs in the courtroom--and the only man she wants in the bedroom.

For David, taking on the Adams case means diving back into a world he thought he'd left behind and colliding head on with tragic possibilities he's in no mood to face. There's a reason professional football is in his past and no matter how close Isla gets to the truth he intends to leave it there.

But long days working on the case together lead to hot nights in each other's arms. As their feelings grow, the case takes a deadly twist that could change the game between the two lovers forever.


•••••••••

REVIEW: 4.25 stars--EVIDENCE OF DESIRE is the second instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult COURTING JUSTICE erotic, romantic suspense series. This is attorneys Isla Shayne, and David Cormack’s story line. EVIDENCE OF DESIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. There is a slight cross-over with the author’s Lawless Series, and her Masters and Mercenaries series.


Told from dual third person perspectives (Isla and David) EVIDENCE OF DESIRE follows the building relationship between attorneys Isla Shayne, and David Cormack as they are tasked with proving their client’s innocence. Isla Shayne represents the Adams family, a family engulfed in a personal and private war but a war that now focuses on the murder of Portia Adams, apparently by the man she loved. When one-time football great Trey Adams is the number one suspect in the death of his beloved wife Portia, all bets are off as Isla must battle the district attorney and the media as the vultures begin to circulate for scraps. Hiring defence attorney David Cormack opens Isla’s eyes to the possibility of her own happily ever after, a happily ever after that is threatened in more ways than one. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Isla and David, and the potential fall-out as our leading couple are targeted when they get too close to the truth.

Both Isla and David have loved and lost but none more-so than our story line heroine. Meeting David Cormack means a second chance at love but David begins to wonder if there is any future based on what he knows, and what may never be.

The relationship between Isla and David begins as a business arrangement but soon turns into something more. Threats against our heroine’s life push David into a protector and guardian role, a role for which he was willing to die. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters several who become prime suspects in the death of Portia Adams. We are introduced to Portia’s husband Trey, and their adult children Miranda and Oscar; Guardian’s football owner Carey Kendrick and his wife Amber; fellow attorneys Noah Lawless and Margarita Reyes. We are reintroduced to Henry Garrison and Win Hughes (Order of Protection #1).

The world building focuses on the search for the truth. Isla Shayne knows that Trey Adams did not, and would not murder his wife. The story line will focus on CTE –Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy-a brain disorder caused by repeated head injuries, and numerous concussions suffered by athletes in contact sports.

EVIDENCE OF DESIRE is a story of heartbreak, secrets and lies; friendship, family and betrayal: second chances and falling in love. The premise is captivating and entertaining; the romance is seductive and sexy; the characters are colorful, engaging and lively. EVIDENCE OF DESIRE is a dramatic, moving and tragic story of passion, and the potential vulnerability for those unable to protect or defend themselves.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evidence of Desire is the perfect title for the second book in Lexi Blake’s Courting Justice series because its implications to the plot as well as its characters involved in the court case center around an influx of overwhelming emotions - ones that can lead to both positive and negative outcomes for more people than just the accused.

The murder case that finds its way to former NFL player now criminal defense attorney, David Cormack, is one that could open old wounds and send him spiraling because what the defendant, Trey Adams, is accused of as well as Adams’ psychological frame of mind and repercussions of a professional football career hit extremely close to home and illicit a set of feelings that he’s forced away for quite some time.

Amidst the suspenseful court case and its evidence is a romantic connection that cannot be repressed, and despite David’s fears and the baggage he carries due to his past, he more than falls for Isla Shayne. She’s an unexpected force in his life and while her ties originated with David’s client, the relationship that seems to be developing between them, despite David’s hesitancies, just might prove to be essential to David’s growth and acceptance as he struggles to conquer his demons and find a way to have something more with Isla.

In true Lexi Blake fashion, there are a bevy of twists and turns throughout the course of Isla and David’s story, which given the context and the content of the case and what David and his client are up against, isn’t surprising, but the way everything plays out is quite unexpected and I loved working through the facts, uncovering further evidence, and wrapping my head around all that is described in order to come to some kind of conclusion, which was definitely not easy!

When I finished the story, it was beyond clear to me just how much research Lexi Blake did in order to provide a clear view of a murder case; she did not approach the circumstances of her storyline haphazardly. To make things believable, sufficient details and a complete overview of the ins and outs of the case must be meticulously explored, and Blake more than did justice to this aspect of Evidence of Desire.

Lexi Blake’s romantic suspense stories are some of my favorites to read because she seamlessly weaves these two facets throughout her story lines, and it never feels forced or disjointed because there’s always a reason for the events to play out the way they do and an understanding of the emotions that are involved as well as the impact on personal relationships due to the extremeness of the circumstances that surround them.

David and Isla’s story is an overwhelming and intense journey that blends what’s developing between them and the case that brought them together into a cohesive and well-developed plot, and I can’t wait for more Lexi Blake stories from this trope!

4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)

[Angie Elle · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC from the publisher

Evidence of Desire is the second book in Lexi Blake’s Courting Justice series, and sadly, it fell apart here for me. I really enjoyed the series starter, Order of Protection, which was my first experience with this author; d I’ve been looking forward to this one ever since. I’m going to make this review short so I can move on with my reading life. For one thing, things that may have sparked my interest in the previous installment grated on my nerves here - name dropping characters I’ve never met became so cumbersome that I started hating them without knowing them. They felt gratuitous and out of place. For another, Isla and David had zero chemistry. Nada. There was no build up at all. It was like all of a sudden they decided they were in love, but where was the lead up? I never felt any connection between them, and the love scenes made me cringe. They were not sexy at all, and if anything, it further solidified that this ‘couple’ had no zing. David’s reason for not wanting to be together felt incredibly contrived, as did a lot of other parts of this book. On top of that, both of the main characters have a disdain for privileged people, but make their money off working for them. They’re both lawyers with very wealthy clients, and I have no idea of why the went into law. David is a bit more understandable because it’s fleetingly mentioned that he does pro-bono work, but Isla’s job is pretty much a gopher for rich people. Why would you surround yourself with that when you have such issues with that demographic? All it did was highlight how judgmental, and in the end, hypocritical she was, as this story took a turn where Isla was more than happy to take advantage of her client’s privilege to make things go her way. And this was a ‘twist’ that I saw coming from a mile away. And my last gripe is this, but not specific to this author - what is this trend where practically everyone in a story is a jerk or bad guy, unless it’s someone who was a main character in the author’s previous books? All that does is make me think there’s something wrong with the ‘good’ main character they’re writing that they’d surround themselves with people like that.

One star because I made it to the end of this book, and a second because despite my issues with David and Isla, I thought the mystery aspect, while ultimately predictable, was still interesting, as was the exploration of CTE, which is something I’ve never seen before. Assuming Noah gets a book, I will read it as I love his character, but I’ll be skipping out on any others.

This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.