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Lodestone #1
Hush
National bestselling author Cherry Adair introduces an edgy, sexy new suspense series with this exhilarating international tale of hide and seek.
A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.
Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.
A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, death-defying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.
An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead—at any cost.
A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.
Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.
A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, death-defying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.
An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead—at any cost.
416 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2011
80 people are currently reading
1463 people want to read
About the author
Cherry Adair
77 books1,468 followersAlways an adventurer in life as well as writing, New York Times best-selling author Cherry Adair moved halfway across the globe from Cape Town, South Africa to the United States in her early years to become a interior designer. Now a resident of the Pacific Northwest she shares the award- winning adventures of her fictional T-FLAC counter terrorism operatives with her readers.
Cherry settled in beautiful San Francisco, where she started what eventually became a thriving interior design business. "I loved being a designer because it was varied and creative, and I enjoyed working with the public." A voracious reader when she was able to carve out the time, Cherry found her brain crowded with characters and stories of her own. "Eventually," she says, "the stories demanded to be told."
When asked why she chooses to write romantic action adventure, she says, "Who says you can’t have adventure and a great love life? Of course if you’re talking about an adventurous love life, that’s another thing altogether. I write romantic suspense coupled heart-pounding adventure because I like to entertain, and nothing keeps readers happier than a rollercoaster read, followed by a happy ending."
Popular on the workshop circuit, Cherry gives lively classes on writing and the writing life. Pulling no punches when asked how to become a published writer, Cherry insists, "Sit your butt in the chair and write. There's no magic to it. Writing is hard work. It isn't for sissies or whiners."
Cherry loves to spend time at home. A corner desk keeps her focused on writing, but the windows behind her, with a panoramic view of the front gardens, are always calling her to come outside and play. Her office has nine-foot ceilings, a fireplace, a television and built-in bookcases that will house approximately 3,500 paperback books.
"What can I say? My keeper shelf has been breeding in the middle of the night, rather like drycleaners' wire clothes hangers.”
Cherry settled in beautiful San Francisco, where she started what eventually became a thriving interior design business. "I loved being a designer because it was varied and creative, and I enjoyed working with the public." A voracious reader when she was able to carve out the time, Cherry found her brain crowded with characters and stories of her own. "Eventually," she says, "the stories demanded to be told."
When asked why she chooses to write romantic action adventure, she says, "Who says you can’t have adventure and a great love life? Of course if you’re talking about an adventurous love life, that’s another thing altogether. I write romantic suspense coupled heart-pounding adventure because I like to entertain, and nothing keeps readers happier than a rollercoaster read, followed by a happy ending."
Popular on the workshop circuit, Cherry gives lively classes on writing and the writing life. Pulling no punches when asked how to become a published writer, Cherry insists, "Sit your butt in the chair and write. There's no magic to it. Writing is hard work. It isn't for sissies or whiners."
Cherry loves to spend time at home. A corner desk keeps her focused on writing, but the windows behind her, with a panoramic view of the front gardens, are always calling her to come outside and play. Her office has nine-foot ceilings, a fireplace, a television and built-in bookcases that will house approximately 3,500 paperback books.
"What can I say? My keeper shelf has been breeding in the middle of the night, rather like drycleaners' wire clothes hangers.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
May 11, 2011
Cherry Adair, 2011 is your year! First Undertow, now this fantastic action/adventure romance, the first in the Lodestone trilogy? What are you doing to me? You are definitely in the groove, and I hope it continues with Riptide and in 2012 (*darn, why the long wait?*)-- the follow up to Hush.
Hush was just spectacular on all counts--that is, if you like 'em steamy hawt, and with plenty of action. From the very first page I did not want to put this one down, and if I'd had the time I would've read it in one sitting. Who would think that a simple kidnapping plot (which has been done before in RS) where the H/h (and the hero's brother) are marched through the Venezuelan jungle and held for ransom by a group of guerillas would be so...captivating? Cherry Adair tricks out the plot with plenty of atmosphere (you could just feel the steamy heat, and sense the discomfort), strong, snappy dialogue between the H/h, and enough twists and (some heartbreaking) turns to keep you guessing. But where she really excels is with her characters, and their strong connection. Whether it's the brotherly bond between our hero (35 year-old millionaire/hunk/extreme sports enthusiast with maybe a bit of a death wish and owner of the world's biggest search engine company, Zakary Stark)
Zak...
and his 10 months younger(?) brother (Gideon),
Gideon...
or the hot, hot , hot chemistry with our heroine, (30 year old sporting goods store manager, and Kansas's latest lottery winner--Acadia Gray),
Zak and Acadia...
CA's storytelling makes Hush a riveting page turner that I did not want to end. You'd think 416 pages would be enough--but no, I could've read another 100 easily!
The basic plot finds Acadia Gray in Venezuela on a trip (encouraged by her friends) to see Angel Falls.
Angel Falls...
She had been taking care of her former military father for the past 6 years (early onset Alzheimers), and had put her life on hold. Months after her father's passing, she won the Kansas lottery, and decided to indulge in the trip before she returned to college to study architecture. She meets Zakary in a cantina near their hotel, and doing something very unlike her, has one hot, lusty, sweaty night with the sexually intense Zak (alas, this happened off the pages, but was talked about throughout the book). Zak and his brother Gideon, co-owners of ZAG (think 'Google'), are extreme sports enthusiasts, and are in Venezuela to BASE jump Angel Falls.
BASE Jumping from Angel Falls...
It's the morning after,
The morning after...
and Zak and Acadia wake up (naked in bed) to find armed guerillas in their seedy hotel room. They put up a valiant fight, but are rounded up, bound (along with brother Gideon) and driven into a remote location in the Venezuelan jungle. Will they manage to escape? Will the ransom demand (20 million for each) be paid by their business partner? Will their lives be spared if the ransom is paid? Who is behind the kidnapping, and why? Is it a business enemy, or has someone close to them betrayed them? Is there any way out of this fix they're in?
This book was fabulously paced. There was never a dull moment, even when not much was going on. When the plot came to a standstill, there was always some kind of snarky, witty, or lusty dialogue going on between Acadia (who was soooo out of her element) and Zak (who started out as being a moody grouch who seemed like he didn't give a damn if he lived or died--the reason behind that would be a *spoiler*). Acadia was something else--clever, resourceful (her multi-pocketed SCOTTeVEST--a character in its own right-- was literally a lifesaver during their trek through the jungle),
Acadia's 28 pocket SCOTTeVest...I think I want one of these...
funny, beautiful, chatty and a bit of a fibber when nervous--she was a brave, heroic character, and so likable--there was no way that the reluctant-to-give-his-heart Zak was going to be able to resist her. Of course he was in lust with her--the man couldn't keep his hands (and mind) off her (she really was his lodestone) and was always obsessing about her "jasmine" smell. But boy, did I love seeing him admiring and appreciating her and realizing that he'd never meet another woman like her.
Now, their love scenes. Ohhh boy...I don't think anything actually happened (on the pages) until about page 250, but seriously? It was worth the wait. Once they
There is a paranormal twist to this story, but don't worry--no one turns into a 'wizard' or anything crazy like that. Zak has a near-death experience, and when he recovers he has this mysterious sixth sense. This is an important element to the plot (and future books, I believe), and CA does a good job of making it seem believable. It's used to great effect to help locate Gideon (who
The climax is tense, nerve-wracking, and heart-breaking (I'll say no more, )
Hush is for anyone who adores a steamy romance with plenty of nail-biting action. You'll fall in love with Acadia and Zak and be praying that there's a future for the quiet, responsible small town girl and the sexy,adrenaline junkie, and hoping there's a way that they can be together permanently. The character of Acadia was so likable, so smart, funny, resourceful, and so kick-ass in her own way...I just adored her. Cherry Adair throws her full writing arsenal into this, and be prepared for a big surprise out of left field near the end that had me shaking my head and saying "WTH"...
With both the Cutter Cay and Lodestone series going at once, look for the rest of 2011 and 2012 to be successful years for Ms. Adair. Hush was one sexy thrill ride for me--one of my favorite romantic suspense stories of the year so far! 5 big stars
Hush was just spectacular on all counts--that is, if you like 'em steamy hawt, and with plenty of action. From the very first page I did not want to put this one down, and if I'd had the time I would've read it in one sitting. Who would think that a simple kidnapping plot (which has been done before in RS) where the H/h (and the hero's brother) are marched through the Venezuelan jungle and held for ransom by a group of guerillas would be so...captivating? Cherry Adair tricks out the plot with plenty of atmosphere (you could just feel the steamy heat, and sense the discomfort), strong, snappy dialogue between the H/h, and enough twists and (some heartbreaking) turns to keep you guessing. But where she really excels is with her characters, and their strong connection. Whether it's the brotherly bond between our hero (35 year-old millionaire/hunk/extreme sports enthusiast with maybe a bit of a death wish and owner of the world's biggest search engine company, Zakary Stark)
Zak...
and his 10 months younger(?) brother (Gideon),
Gideon...
or the hot, hot , hot chemistry with our heroine, (30 year old sporting goods store manager, and Kansas's latest lottery winner--Acadia Gray),
Zak and Acadia...
CA's storytelling makes Hush a riveting page turner that I did not want to end. You'd think 416 pages would be enough--but no, I could've read another 100 easily!
The basic plot finds Acadia Gray in Venezuela on a trip (encouraged by her friends) to see Angel Falls.
Angel Falls...
She had been taking care of her former military father for the past 6 years (early onset Alzheimers), and had put her life on hold. Months after her father's passing, she won the Kansas lottery, and decided to indulge in the trip before she returned to college to study architecture. She meets Zakary in a cantina near their hotel, and doing something very unlike her, has one hot, lusty, sweaty night with the sexually intense Zak (alas, this happened off the pages, but was talked about throughout the book). Zak and his brother Gideon, co-owners of ZAG (think 'Google'), are extreme sports enthusiasts, and are in Venezuela to BASE jump Angel Falls.
BASE Jumping from Angel Falls...
It's the morning after,
The morning after...
and Zak and Acadia wake up (naked in bed) to find armed guerillas in their seedy hotel room. They put up a valiant fight, but are rounded up, bound (along with brother Gideon) and driven into a remote location in the Venezuelan jungle. Will they manage to escape? Will the ransom demand (20 million for each) be paid by their business partner? Will their lives be spared if the ransom is paid? Who is behind the kidnapping, and why? Is it a business enemy, or has someone close to them betrayed them? Is there any way out of this fix they're in?
This book was fabulously paced. There was never a dull moment, even when not much was going on. When the plot came to a standstill, there was always some kind of snarky, witty, or lusty dialogue going on between Acadia (who was soooo out of her element) and Zak (who started out as being a moody grouch who seemed like he didn't give a damn if he lived or died--the reason behind that would be a *spoiler*). Acadia was something else--clever, resourceful (her multi-pocketed SCOTTeVEST--a character in its own right-- was literally a lifesaver during their trek through the jungle),
Acadia's 28 pocket SCOTTeVest...I think I want one of these...
funny, beautiful, chatty and a bit of a fibber when nervous--she was a brave, heroic character, and so likable--there was no way that the reluctant-to-give-his-heart Zak was going to be able to resist her. Of course he was in lust with her--the man couldn't keep his hands (and mind) off her (she really was his lodestone) and was always obsessing about her "jasmine" smell. But boy, did I love seeing him admiring and appreciating her and realizing that he'd never meet another woman like her.
Now, their love scenes. Ohhh boy...I don't think anything actually happened (on the pages) until about page 250, but seriously? It was worth the wait. Once they
There is a paranormal twist to this story, but don't worry--no one turns into a 'wizard' or anything crazy like that. Zak has a near-death experience, and when he recovers he has this mysterious sixth sense. This is an important element to the plot (and future books, I believe), and CA does a good job of making it seem believable. It's used to great effect to help locate Gideon (who
The climax is tense, nerve-wracking, and heart-breaking (I'll say no more, )
Hush is for anyone who adores a steamy romance with plenty of nail-biting action. You'll fall in love with Acadia and Zak and be praying that there's a future for the quiet, responsible small town girl and the sexy,adrenaline junkie, and hoping there's a way that they can be together permanently. The character of Acadia was so likable, so smart, funny, resourceful, and so kick-ass in her own way...I just adored her. Cherry Adair throws her full writing arsenal into this, and be prepared for a big surprise out of left field near the end that had me shaking my head and saying "WTH"...
With both the Cutter Cay and Lodestone series going at once, look for the rest of 2011 and 2012 to be successful years for Ms. Adair. Hush was one sexy thrill ride for me--one of my favorite romantic suspense stories of the year so far! 5 big stars
May 10, 2011
3 stars – Romantic Suspense
This was a fairly entertaining romantic suspense read, but I was a little disappointed.
--The hero was a brooding, self-pitying a**hole who treated the heroine like sh*t for a lot of the book. I just didn’t care much for Zak.
--I liked the heroine, but the premise for her being in Venezuela seemed somewhat far-fetched. I didn’t find it very believable that a play-it-safe, boring girl-next-door from Kansas would become such a sex kitten, jungle survivor queen so easily. But even though he was a jerk, it was kinda funny when Zak teased Acadia by calling her various Barbie nicknames.
--I figured out the villain, so the big, shocking plot twist wasn’t much of a surprise to me, and the climax showdown scene was rather ridiculous and outlandish, even for Romancelandia.
--The paranormal element was completely irrelevant and unnecessary, and I think it would have been better as a straight romantic suspense.
--There’s a nice HEA, but it was a little too late for me to warm up to Zak.
--The vague cliffhanger regarding Zak’s brother Gideon has me curious about the next book, but I’ll probably wait for reviews before spending another $7.99.
Overall, Hush is a decent, not great, romantic suspense read, especially given my lack of enthusiasm for the hero. 3 stars.
Here’s my Zak casting. (Yeah, he might be a jerk, but he’s still ripped and hot!)
This was a fairly entertaining romantic suspense read, but I was a little disappointed.
--The hero was a brooding, self-pitying a**hole who treated the heroine like sh*t for a lot of the book. I just didn’t care much for Zak.
--I liked the heroine, but the premise for her being in Venezuela seemed somewhat far-fetched. I didn’t find it very believable that a play-it-safe, boring girl-next-door from Kansas would become such a sex kitten, jungle survivor queen so easily. But even though he was a jerk, it was kinda funny when Zak teased Acadia by calling her various Barbie nicknames.
--I figured out the villain, so the big, shocking plot twist wasn’t much of a surprise to me, and the climax showdown scene was rather ridiculous and outlandish, even for Romancelandia.
--The paranormal element was completely irrelevant and unnecessary, and I think it would have been better as a straight romantic suspense.
--There’s a nice HEA, but it was a little too late for me to warm up to Zak.
--The vague cliffhanger regarding Zak’s brother Gideon has me curious about the next book, but I’ll probably wait for reviews before spending another $7.99.
Overall, Hush is a decent, not great, romantic suspense read, especially given my lack of enthusiasm for the hero. 3 stars.
Here’s my Zak casting. (Yeah, he might be a jerk, but he’s still ripped and hot!)
June 29, 2011
Angel Falls, Canaima National Park, Venezuela
★★★★✩ I dithered over the rating of this book, bouncing from a 3 to a 4 to a 4½ and back again. The premise was so good; I wanted to like it more than I did. Maybe I will, if I re-read it in the future. Ms. Adair’s story opens with hero, Zak Stark, realizing he has a morning erection. Lucky for him, he still has the one-night stand he picked up in a Venezuelan bar last night securely wrapped in his strong arms; unlucky for him, he has a gun pressed tight against his temple and a room full of kidnappers.
Some things worked well for me, others didn’t. I didn’t particularly believe the initial reactions of the heroine, Acadia Gray, but she definitely worked for me as the book went on. Her name was too similar to a city near where I grew up, but missing one letter, making the concentration it took on the correct pronunciation take me out of the flow of the read. Nonetheless, unlike some other readers, I got a kick out all the things she pulled out of her SCOTTeVEST along their trek through the jungles of Canaima National Park. Maybe I’ve watched too many I Shouldn’t Be Alive episodes, but I got a real since of time, place, circumstance, and urgency. Possibly why I didn't like Zak and Acadia's bickering, but it didn't last long. I think most people would bond, and thus cooperate, under these conditions.
Zak’s deceased wife, a CNN freelance reporter, is mentioned a lot ; therefore, it took me a while to figure out that he wasn’t with her when she died. This only made me wonder why he felt so strongly about being unable to “rescue” someone ever again. Sure, I could understand his guilt at the failure of his marriage and not being there for her. But his “failure” wasn’t in his survival instincts, so I didn’t get how it related to their current dire circumstances.
After a wild, uninhibited bout of sex with someone you only planned on one night with, what do you do when you’re stuck in a dangerous, life-threating situation? Zak certainly underestimates Acadia and vice versa. Speaking of sex, some (but not all) of the foreplay scenes were inappropriately situated (IMHO) and didn’t ring true; nevertheless, the sex, when it finally happened, was h-o-t!
After an adventurous thrill-ride, I wasn’t overjoyed with the ending (and immediately checked cherryadair.com – a wonderfully designed website – to see if there was another book to make this into a series). However, overall, I have to say I had trouble putting this book down; I wanted to find out what happened ! To me, that is a sign of a GoodRead and secured it as a four star rating.
To see a five minute slideshow of author’s eye photos for this book, click on this: Adair’s Link.
★★★★✩ I dithered over the rating of this book, bouncing from a 3 to a 4 to a 4½ and back again. The premise was so good; I wanted to like it more than I did. Maybe I will, if I re-read it in the future. Ms. Adair’s story opens with hero, Zak Stark, realizing he has a morning erection. Lucky for him, he still has the one-night stand he picked up in a Venezuelan bar last night securely wrapped in his strong arms; unlucky for him, he has a gun pressed tight against his temple and a room full of kidnappers.
Some things worked well for me, others didn’t. I didn’t particularly believe the initial reactions of the heroine, Acadia Gray, but she definitely worked for me as the book went on. Her name was too similar to a city near where I grew up, but missing one letter, making the concentration it took on the correct pronunciation take me out of the flow of the read. Nonetheless, unlike some other readers, I got a kick out all the things she pulled out of her SCOTTeVEST along their trek through the jungles of Canaima National Park. Maybe I’ve watched too many I Shouldn’t Be Alive episodes, but I got a real since of time, place, circumstance, and urgency. Possibly why I didn't like Zak and Acadia's bickering, but it didn't last long. I think most people would bond, and thus cooperate, under these conditions.
Zak’s deceased wife, a CNN freelance reporter, is mentioned a lot ; therefore, it took me a while to figure out that he wasn’t with her when she died. This only made me wonder why he felt so strongly about being unable to “rescue” someone ever again. Sure, I could understand his guilt at the failure of his marriage and not being there for her. But his “failure” wasn’t in his survival instincts, so I didn’t get how it related to their current dire circumstances.
After a wild, uninhibited bout of sex with someone you only planned on one night with, what do you do when you’re stuck in a dangerous, life-threating situation? Zak certainly underestimates Acadia and vice versa. Speaking of sex, some (but not all) of the foreplay scenes were inappropriately situated (IMHO) and didn’t ring true; nevertheless, the sex, when it finally happened, was h-o-t!
After an adventurous thrill-ride, I wasn’t overjoyed with the ending (and immediately checked cherryadair.com – a wonderfully designed website – to see if there was another book to make this into a series). However, overall, I have to say I had trouble putting this book down; I wanted to find out what happened ! To me, that is a sign of a GoodRead and secured it as a four star rating.
To see a five minute slideshow of author’s eye photos for this book, click on this: Adair’s Link.
September 26, 2023
Marc Savin from "The Mercenary" makes an appearance and saves their bacon. I looked up my review of that book and it was short and harsh: "Not a good as I could have hoped for. This is my fourth Cherry Adair book and I'm just not impressed with her writing." I've changed my mind. Never judge an author by their early work, I'm glad I didn't. I have come to love the T-Flac universe that Adair has created and that includes the spin offs too. "Hush" starts with a bang but drags as they slog their way out of the jungle. The story picks up and the non-stop action is great. Acadia, the heroine, is smart, beautiful, gutsy and totally relatable as a woman facing circumstances she never in her wildest dreams could have imagined. Zak is no slouch in the brains department either and I love how they evolve from a one-night stand into a strong team.
Acadia Gray won the lottery, literally. And, the death of her father after a long debilitating illness has inspired her to take a walk on the wild side with a trip to see to Angel Falls in Venezuela. Her short-term plan - adventure. Her long-term plan - an architectural degree. The woman is a planner and a preparer. What she didn't plan for or prepare for was a one-night stand that turned into her worst nightmare.
Thrill seeking brothers, Zakary and Gideon Stark, have created a multi-national corporation. They work hard and play harder. They are in Venezuela to free jump Angel Falls. A chance meeting and a one-night stand changes Zak's life forever. His night of bliss ends with the rude awakening by an M-16 pointed at his very naked body. Zak, his brother and the blond-haired Barbie are kidnapped and marched to a camp in the middle of the deep jungle by a determined group of guerillas.
Zak was having some strange vibes from the kidnappers and got the distinct feeling that this was more than just a kidnapping for ransom. Acadia proves her worth and preparedness in helping to engineer their escape, but Gideon is separated from them, and Zak is gravely injured. Acadia's instincts do more than free them from the kidnappers, they keep them alive.
Acadia Gray won the lottery, literally. And, the death of her father after a long debilitating illness has inspired her to take a walk on the wild side with a trip to see to Angel Falls in Venezuela. Her short-term plan - adventure. Her long-term plan - an architectural degree. The woman is a planner and a preparer. What she didn't plan for or prepare for was a one-night stand that turned into her worst nightmare.
Thrill seeking brothers, Zakary and Gideon Stark, have created a multi-national corporation. They work hard and play harder. They are in Venezuela to free jump Angel Falls. A chance meeting and a one-night stand changes Zak's life forever. His night of bliss ends with the rude awakening by an M-16 pointed at his very naked body. Zak, his brother and the blond-haired Barbie are kidnapped and marched to a camp in the middle of the deep jungle by a determined group of guerillas.
Zak was having some strange vibes from the kidnappers and got the distinct feeling that this was more than just a kidnapping for ransom. Acadia proves her worth and preparedness in helping to engineer their escape, but Gideon is separated from them, and Zak is gravely injured. Acadia's instincts do more than free them from the kidnappers, they keep them alive.
May 18, 2011
Reading some books is like being on a roller-coaster and Hush is like that. It is an action packed adventure that starts with a bang and doesn't stop.
When Zakary Stark opens his eyes he realizes that she is wrapped around a naked woman, whose name he can't quite recall and before he can do anything more, armed men barge into their room. A kidnapping, now Zak doesn't consider himself a hero but he is worried about the woman and his brother Gideon, he tries to make a move but is unsuccessful, and the next time he opens his eyes, he along with his brother and his one-night stand who he likes to call "Barbie" are in a truck being transported.
Acadia Gray only wanted a adventure, she considers herself a observer and not a doer. Her friends after her father died after a battle with Alzheimer's and she wins the lottery in Kansas, book a trip for Venezuela and she comes a few days before.
So, she lies about herself and spends an uninhibited night with Zak never expecting to get up in the morning and be mauled by men trying to kidnap her. But Acadia is a planner, giver her some time and a list and she can come up with something. She is not someone to take things lying down and she tells Zak that and damn that vest she wore with 28 pockets, she prepared for every contingency, a tent, aspirin, wipes, bandages etc and all of them come in handy and help in their escape.
Acadia thinks that she is the reason they are kidnapped but no Zak and his brother are thrill-seekers and millionaires and partners of a big search engine. Zak has been for the past 2 years pushing the limits ever since his wife died. His brother thinks that his wife Jennifer was the love of his life but she wasn't, she instead was a manipulative woman, who made Zak lose faith, the only reason he feels guilty is because she was his responsibility and he sees himself as no hero. He is quite a jerk sometimes to Cady in the beginning and keeps waiting for the other shoe to drop, that is for Cady to start throwing tantrums. When Gideon tells Zak that they need to separate and he should take Cady Zak is not pleased.
But nope Cady is a kick-ass woman, she is scared no doubt and when Zak collapses because of a bullet wound she takes charge since she has no choice. Seeing her fleece that corrupt police-man was fun and the come-backs she had for Zak and his sarcasm. And the sexual tension is off the charts even when they are sweaty and in the jungle.
I did have a clue about who was orchestrating the whole kidnapping but I was proved wrong in one way. They had such rotten luck, the safe-house is blown up, they have to escape from the hotel and airport after getting back and the company plane blows up, also Gideon is missing.
There is a slight paranormal element introduced after Zak flat-lines, he keeps seeing these coordinates, I was not a big fan of it but it was not that in the face.
The best part of the book was the adventure and resourcefulness of Cady and seeing her and Zak together.
After a very long time I loved a Cherry Adair, can't wait for the next.
When Zakary Stark opens his eyes he realizes that she is wrapped around a naked woman, whose name he can't quite recall and before he can do anything more, armed men barge into their room. A kidnapping, now Zak doesn't consider himself a hero but he is worried about the woman and his brother Gideon, he tries to make a move but is unsuccessful, and the next time he opens his eyes, he along with his brother and his one-night stand who he likes to call "Barbie" are in a truck being transported.
Acadia Gray only wanted a adventure, she considers herself a observer and not a doer. Her friends after her father died after a battle with Alzheimer's and she wins the lottery in Kansas, book a trip for Venezuela and she comes a few days before.
So, she lies about herself and spends an uninhibited night with Zak never expecting to get up in the morning and be mauled by men trying to kidnap her. But Acadia is a planner, giver her some time and a list and she can come up with something. She is not someone to take things lying down and she tells Zak that and damn that vest she wore with 28 pockets, she prepared for every contingency, a tent, aspirin, wipes, bandages etc and all of them come in handy and help in their escape.
Acadia thinks that she is the reason they are kidnapped but no Zak and his brother are thrill-seekers and millionaires and partners of a big search engine. Zak has been for the past 2 years pushing the limits ever since his wife died. His brother thinks that his wife Jennifer was the love of his life but she wasn't, she instead was a manipulative woman, who made Zak lose faith, the only reason he feels guilty is because she was his responsibility and he sees himself as no hero. He is quite a jerk sometimes to Cady in the beginning and keeps waiting for the other shoe to drop, that is for Cady to start throwing tantrums. When Gideon tells Zak that they need to separate and he should take Cady Zak is not pleased.
But nope Cady is a kick-ass woman, she is scared no doubt and when Zak collapses because of a bullet wound she takes charge since she has no choice. Seeing her fleece that corrupt police-man was fun and the come-backs she had for Zak and his sarcasm. And the sexual tension is off the charts even when they are sweaty and in the jungle.
I did have a clue about who was orchestrating the whole kidnapping but I was proved wrong in one way. They had such rotten luck, the safe-house is blown up, they have to escape from the hotel and airport after getting back and the company plane blows up, also Gideon is missing.
There is a slight paranormal element introduced after Zak flat-lines, he keeps seeing these coordinates, I was not a big fan of it but it was not that in the face.
The best part of the book was the adventure and resourcefulness of Cady and seeing her and Zak together.
After a very long time I loved a Cherry Adair, can't wait for the next.
May 14, 2011
This book read like some kind of dream. I mean literally - like one of those dreams where you wake up and say "what the F*$* was that about?!"
"Hush" indeed... as in SHUSH! QUIET! make the book stop!!
Thing is? I was digging the first 1/4 of this or so. I mean I was REALLY liking it! I could go along with the surly man who'd been burned by love + the girl who never is wild but acted out one time and wound up kidnapped for it romantic suspense story. There was some snappy dialogue and I REALLY was enjoying myself. Heck- I could even go with how they got away from the kidnappers and the heroine was super handy and had stashed all kinds of useful things on herself "in case"...
but then what the what?!
There is entirely too much focus on mundane detail, and scenes that added nothing at all. Seriously boring. There is also an insane focus on sex. I say insane because a few hours after being brought back from the dead, the leading man is trying to get it on... seriously?! So wildly inappropriate and throughout book of "ooh, I feel horny" where nobody would ever feel that way. Beyond realm of even marginally believable.
Then there's the "paranormal" element which really isn't much of anything at all. Just that the guy is seeing numbers and they figure out what it means... and that it could be useful to - oh! yes. tidy up the plot, throw in a "what the F" plot twist, and end story.
I'm glad this was a borrowed book and not purchased.
May 11, 2011
I REALLY LIKED this book. It had everything I love in book. TONS of action from page one, Sexy as hell hero, smart and resourceful heroine, Hot sex scenes and a really good story line. So why only 4 stars? The paranormal element that comes in to play was just too unbelievable for me. While I did not dislike this turn of events, I felt if it would have been better left out of the story, that would have been better for me. All and all a VERY good read and YEPPER'S I'll be waiting on the next book in this series.
P.S, I just love Auntee's review of this book :)
P.S, I just love Auntee's review of this book :)
April 22, 2011
I’ve read a few of Cherry Adair’s T-Flac series and most recently really enjoyed Undertow. When Hush came in my mailbox I became intrigued. Romantic suspense in the jungles of South America? I like the sound of it.
Zakary and his brother Gideon are rich beyond their wildest dreams after creating the biggest search engine in the world, ZAG. This leaves them lots of time to seek extreme thrills, which is why they find themselves in the jungles of Venezuela preparing to jump the falls. But before they do that, Zak finds a pretty American and has a one night stand with her.
Acadia has won the $500,000 lottery in Kansas where she works for a sporting goods store. Her friends convinced the very “boring” Acadia to take her money and go on the adventure of her life. So when she wakes up after her steamy night of sex with Zak with an Uzi in her face and numerous guerillas surrounding them, her adventure isn’t quite what she expected.
The guerillas kidnap Zak, Acadia and Gideon (who was sleeping in the other room) and drive them deep into the jungle. Zak suspects they are after his and his brother’s vast fortune. And now he must get his injured brother and this girl he just met to safety.
Hush is book one in the Lodestone trilogy. In true Cherry Adair fashion, there is a lot of action in this book. From page one these three are dragged, beaten, and must outwit the bad guys until the very last page. This is one of the reasons I enjoyed the book – the action literally never stops. Zak is a super sexy hero who fights his attraction to Acadia as hard as he can. He lost his wife in a car bombing a few years past, and feels like he is lacking when it comes to protecting women. Acadia is way out of her comfort zone on this trip even before she gets kidnapped. She has lived a pretty quiet life. She has cute moments when she first meets Zak – she can’t help but lie or embellish the truth about her life to make her come across more of a tough girl.
There are a few moments in this book that made me roll my eyes a little. First, all the bad guys smelled absolutely rank, while Zak and Acadia, who have been running around the jungle for days smell earthy, and like sunshine. But okay, it’s a romance book. We can’t have hot sex when we smell bad. Because Acadia works in a sporting goods store, she brings with her a vest that has 28 secret pockets in it. Of course she stuffs this with everything you can imagine (18 pounds worth) so this definitely helps them when they are kidnapped. She even has a tent shoved down her pant leg. This seems a little too convenient for a girl who has never traveled like this before. I also thought Zak (and even Acadia at times) are very familiar with weapons and physically and mentally outsmarting their kidnappers.
My big beef with this book is this “sixth sense” Zak discovers after a near death experience. Now, this sixth sense is mentioned in the blurb, so I don’t consider it a spoiler to talk about, but for me – it just didn’t fit in the story. It doesn’t necessarily play a huge role, I just wasn’t expecting it and it felt out of place. I would have much preferred this book to stay a romantic-suspense and leave out the paranormal aspect. Or make the paranormal aspect more of a big deal.
Otherwise, Hush is a very action-packed, sexy book. It kept my interest from page one and I kind of fell in love with Zak and his surly attitude. Looking forward to book two!
Rating: B-
Zakary and his brother Gideon are rich beyond their wildest dreams after creating the biggest search engine in the world, ZAG. This leaves them lots of time to seek extreme thrills, which is why they find themselves in the jungles of Venezuela preparing to jump the falls. But before they do that, Zak finds a pretty American and has a one night stand with her.
Acadia has won the $500,000 lottery in Kansas where she works for a sporting goods store. Her friends convinced the very “boring” Acadia to take her money and go on the adventure of her life. So when she wakes up after her steamy night of sex with Zak with an Uzi in her face and numerous guerillas surrounding them, her adventure isn’t quite what she expected.
The guerillas kidnap Zak, Acadia and Gideon (who was sleeping in the other room) and drive them deep into the jungle. Zak suspects they are after his and his brother’s vast fortune. And now he must get his injured brother and this girl he just met to safety.
Hush is book one in the Lodestone trilogy. In true Cherry Adair fashion, there is a lot of action in this book. From page one these three are dragged, beaten, and must outwit the bad guys until the very last page. This is one of the reasons I enjoyed the book – the action literally never stops. Zak is a super sexy hero who fights his attraction to Acadia as hard as he can. He lost his wife in a car bombing a few years past, and feels like he is lacking when it comes to protecting women. Acadia is way out of her comfort zone on this trip even before she gets kidnapped. She has lived a pretty quiet life. She has cute moments when she first meets Zak – she can’t help but lie or embellish the truth about her life to make her come across more of a tough girl.
There are a few moments in this book that made me roll my eyes a little. First, all the bad guys smelled absolutely rank, while Zak and Acadia, who have been running around the jungle for days smell earthy, and like sunshine. But okay, it’s a romance book. We can’t have hot sex when we smell bad. Because Acadia works in a sporting goods store, she brings with her a vest that has 28 secret pockets in it. Of course she stuffs this with everything you can imagine (18 pounds worth) so this definitely helps them when they are kidnapped. She even has a tent shoved down her pant leg. This seems a little too convenient for a girl who has never traveled like this before. I also thought Zak (and even Acadia at times) are very familiar with weapons and physically and mentally outsmarting their kidnappers.
My big beef with this book is this “sixth sense” Zak discovers after a near death experience. Now, this sixth sense is mentioned in the blurb, so I don’t consider it a spoiler to talk about, but for me – it just didn’t fit in the story. It doesn’t necessarily play a huge role, I just wasn’t expecting it and it felt out of place. I would have much preferred this book to stay a romantic-suspense and leave out the paranormal aspect. Or make the paranormal aspect more of a big deal.
Otherwise, Hush is a very action-packed, sexy book. It kept my interest from page one and I kind of fell in love with Zak and his surly attitude. Looking forward to book two!
Rating: B-
June 26, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. It was certainly the best book I've read by Cherry Adair. It was fast paced and didn't have any slow spots. Started right off with the kidnapping as the the hero and heroine woke up after what was to have been a one night stand. So they weren't all into each other at the first. I loved how he, Zac, was not real nice to her at first as that seems like a realistic response to being kidnapped with a woman he picked up in a bar. He was staying true to his character. His growth and change was gradual and realistic. Very well done. The heroine, Acadia, was very well written as well. She was sweetly funny and was not just there to be saved. She was a major component in their survival. The ending was a little improbable but hey it's fiction and it wasn't totally out there. The dialog was good. The sex scenes were well done, hot without being to overwhelming or oddly placed, which can be a problem in running from bad guys type of books.
The paranormal element was a little odd. It was a very different sort of skill he ended up with. We're not talking vampires and fae sort of paranormal but a psychic sort of thing. It was interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing how it's going to play out in further books.
Huge spoiler here. I recommend you don't read it until you've read the book.
All in all, I can't wait for the next one.
The paranormal element was a little odd. It was a very different sort of skill he ended up with. We're not talking vampires and fae sort of paranormal but a psychic sort of thing. It was interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing how it's going to play out in further books.
Huge spoiler here. I recommend you don't read it until you've read the book.
All in all, I can't wait for the next one.
May 13, 2011
The action starts on the first page and doesn't stop until the very end. It had some funny scenes with Arcadia, the h, who could put MacGyver to shame. Zak, the H, can't get his mind off their very hot sexual encounter, and in the midst of their kidnapping it's all he can think about. Funny stuff. The book could have done without the last minute psychic element that was thrown into the story. It was really unnecessary and added nothing to the plot in my opinion. Had it initially been part of the character's abilities it would have worked. Other than that, I really enjoyed the book and wish we did not have to wait over a year for the next one in the series to be released.
April 28, 2011
4.5 stars
http://obsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com
I’ve come to count on Cherry Adair as being one of my favorite Romantic Suspense authors; I adore her writing style and have loved her T-Flac series, Hush is a great starter to the Lodestone Trilogy.
Zakary and Gideon Stark are extremely rich developers of an internet search engine, ZAG along with their friend and partner, Anthony Buckner. Both are extreme thrill seekers, their latest adventure a trip to the jungles of South America.
Acadia Gray has never been a risk taker, and her trip to Venezuela was a decision she made with friends after winning a sum of money in the Kansas City lottery. It is here she meets Zak and after a night of passion, they awake to a room full of gun toting guerillas, they are kidnapped along with Gideon, and taken to remote parts of the Venezuelan jungle.
After a well planned plot to escape, it is non-stop action and adventure to make their way back to civilization whilst trying to evade the bad guys.
I thoroughly enjoyed the vivid details of the deadly jungle and its surroundings, Cherry Adair bought you into that world visually, and it wasn’t overly detailed which I tend to find distracting.
Zak is carrying a lot of guilt over his deceased wife & the demise of their relationship so it is hard for him to trust and allow himself to be responsible for others. He was abrupt and nasty towards Acadia on occasion, his attitude at times was irritating and he was quick to jump to assumptions about Acadia because of his past relationship.
Acadia on the other hand, I absolutely loved! She had an innocence about her and in times of stress or nervousness tended to embellish the truth, it was an interesting character trait. She was a real girl scout, being prepared for the worst when abducted by the guerillas; she seemed to have everything tucked away in that vest of hers. I like how she took no nonsense from Zak and actually stood up to him, she showed a lot of strength.
The relationship developed slowly, nothing forced or rushed which I tend to prefer. They balanced one another perfectly and the smexy scenes were steamy and passionate.
I didn’t quite know what to make of Zak’s 6th sense; I didn’t feel adding a paranormal element was necessary for an already great plot but it seemed to work well and was quite a subtle aspect.
I enjoyed the inclusion of the T-Flac character (Marc Savin), the organisation fit into the Lodestone trilogy perfectly.
The ending and truth about the villain/s left me gasping! I won’t divulge details, but it was definitely not what I was expecting.
I absolutely love the man candy cover! Check out http://cherryadair.com/#/men/Lodeston... for a great clip of Hush.
A thoroughly enjoyable, fast paced adventure with a wonderful HEA. I look forward to book 2 which has an anticipated 2012 release date.
http://obsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com
I’ve come to count on Cherry Adair as being one of my favorite Romantic Suspense authors; I adore her writing style and have loved her T-Flac series, Hush is a great starter to the Lodestone Trilogy.
Zakary and Gideon Stark are extremely rich developers of an internet search engine, ZAG along with their friend and partner, Anthony Buckner. Both are extreme thrill seekers, their latest adventure a trip to the jungles of South America.
Acadia Gray has never been a risk taker, and her trip to Venezuela was a decision she made with friends after winning a sum of money in the Kansas City lottery. It is here she meets Zak and after a night of passion, they awake to a room full of gun toting guerillas, they are kidnapped along with Gideon, and taken to remote parts of the Venezuelan jungle.
After a well planned plot to escape, it is non-stop action and adventure to make their way back to civilization whilst trying to evade the bad guys.
I thoroughly enjoyed the vivid details of the deadly jungle and its surroundings, Cherry Adair bought you into that world visually, and it wasn’t overly detailed which I tend to find distracting.
Zak is carrying a lot of guilt over his deceased wife & the demise of their relationship so it is hard for him to trust and allow himself to be responsible for others. He was abrupt and nasty towards Acadia on occasion, his attitude at times was irritating and he was quick to jump to assumptions about Acadia because of his past relationship.
Acadia on the other hand, I absolutely loved! She had an innocence about her and in times of stress or nervousness tended to embellish the truth, it was an interesting character trait. She was a real girl scout, being prepared for the worst when abducted by the guerillas; she seemed to have everything tucked away in that vest of hers. I like how she took no nonsense from Zak and actually stood up to him, she showed a lot of strength.
The relationship developed slowly, nothing forced or rushed which I tend to prefer. They balanced one another perfectly and the smexy scenes were steamy and passionate.
I didn’t quite know what to make of Zak’s 6th sense; I didn’t feel adding a paranormal element was necessary for an already great plot but it seemed to work well and was quite a subtle aspect.
I enjoyed the inclusion of the T-Flac character (Marc Savin), the organisation fit into the Lodestone trilogy perfectly.
The ending and truth about the villain/s left me gasping! I won’t divulge details, but it was definitely not what I was expecting.
I absolutely love the man candy cover! Check out http://cherryadair.com/#/men/Lodeston... for a great clip of Hush.
A thoroughly enjoyable, fast paced adventure with a wonderful HEA. I look forward to book 2 which has an anticipated 2012 release date.
September 11, 2011
Weak 3 stars. Ok for lots of adrenaline, action, and fighting, with some romance. Weak character development and plot.
STORY BRIEF:
Acadia works in a sporting goods store. In an effort to expand her horizons she agrees to take a vacation to Venezuela with her girlfriends. She buys a vest and pants with many hidden pockets which she fills with a variety of camping supplies. She arrives a day early, meets Zak in a bar, and spends the night with him. The next morning thugs with Uzis break into the room, kidnap them, and take them into the jungle. They also take Gideon, Zak’s brother.
Zak, Gideon, and Buck developed a software that made them billionaires. Zak and Gideon are adventure thrill seekers. They went to Venezuela to jump off Angel Falls.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Hero and heroine are both smart. No one does anything stupid which is good. Most of the book is action. This would be very fitting as a movie – guns, capture, escape, fleeing, fighting during flight, getting help, fleeing, bad guys keep finding them and trying to kill them, more fleeing, etc. The big mystery is who is behind the bad guys. I’ll call this person X. At one point we believe X wants one brother dead and the other alive. There is also a chance X is after Acadia.
For romantic suspense lovers, this is probably ok. But my reaction was not the best. It was easy to put down. I did not find myself eager to get back to it. I was not engaged. There was nothing creative about this - nothing new or different. It was just bad guys chasing good guys and using guns. When things got worse, Zak conveniently called his CIA friend for more help, again with bad guys chasing good guys.
I’ll give you an example of what was missing. I recently read a different book in which a hero has a friend who is a quadriplegic. The hero sets up a hidden camera to see if the caregiver is abusive. The FBI then visits the quadriplegic for the first time and does something terrible. The hero didn’t expect that and now uses the tape to force the FBI to cooperate with something the hero wants. That intrigued me. I wasn’t expecting it, neither was the hero. It was a rare instance of someone getting something over the FBI.
In this book, the bad guys have every resource and as a result are always able to find out where Zak and Acadia are. That was just too convenient. There is never any outsmarting them or getting one-up over them. Lucky shots with guns is the only thing that finally gets them. I would have preferred unexpected things and out thinking them.
The most interesting parts of this book were two things. Acadia made good use of the supplies in her pockets. The best scene was something in her pocket which was used to drug the bad guys. Thank goodness the thugs didn’t search her to find these things before they put her in a locked room. Second, Zak nearly dies but survives. As a result he has a new psychic ability which comes in handy. Although it doesn’t play a big role.
Character development could have been better. I didn’t feel much for Zak. He desired Acadia sexually, but I didn’t see other desires for her or much relationship development. They were always on the run.
The ending wasn’t as feel good as I normally hope for in romance novels. Yes the hero and heroine get together, but there was some sadness, maybe a feeling of wanting more of something.
DATA:
Story length: 416 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scene: 3. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 13. Setting: current day Venezuela and a little bit of Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright: 2011. Genre: romantic suspense.
STORY BRIEF:
Acadia works in a sporting goods store. In an effort to expand her horizons she agrees to take a vacation to Venezuela with her girlfriends. She buys a vest and pants with many hidden pockets which she fills with a variety of camping supplies. She arrives a day early, meets Zak in a bar, and spends the night with him. The next morning thugs with Uzis break into the room, kidnap them, and take them into the jungle. They also take Gideon, Zak’s brother.
Zak, Gideon, and Buck developed a software that made them billionaires. Zak and Gideon are adventure thrill seekers. They went to Venezuela to jump off Angel Falls.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Hero and heroine are both smart. No one does anything stupid which is good. Most of the book is action. This would be very fitting as a movie – guns, capture, escape, fleeing, fighting during flight, getting help, fleeing, bad guys keep finding them and trying to kill them, more fleeing, etc. The big mystery is who is behind the bad guys. I’ll call this person X. At one point we believe X wants one brother dead and the other alive. There is also a chance X is after Acadia.
For romantic suspense lovers, this is probably ok. But my reaction was not the best. It was easy to put down. I did not find myself eager to get back to it. I was not engaged. There was nothing creative about this - nothing new or different. It was just bad guys chasing good guys and using guns. When things got worse, Zak conveniently called his CIA friend for more help, again with bad guys chasing good guys.
I’ll give you an example of what was missing. I recently read a different book in which a hero has a friend who is a quadriplegic. The hero sets up a hidden camera to see if the caregiver is abusive. The FBI then visits the quadriplegic for the first time and does something terrible. The hero didn’t expect that and now uses the tape to force the FBI to cooperate with something the hero wants. That intrigued me. I wasn’t expecting it, neither was the hero. It was a rare instance of someone getting something over the FBI.
In this book, the bad guys have every resource and as a result are always able to find out where Zak and Acadia are. That was just too convenient. There is never any outsmarting them or getting one-up over them. Lucky shots with guns is the only thing that finally gets them. I would have preferred unexpected things and out thinking them.
The most interesting parts of this book were two things. Acadia made good use of the supplies in her pockets. The best scene was something in her pocket which was used to drug the bad guys. Thank goodness the thugs didn’t search her to find these things before they put her in a locked room. Second, Zak nearly dies but survives. As a result he has a new psychic ability which comes in handy. Although it doesn’t play a big role.
Character development could have been better. I didn’t feel much for Zak. He desired Acadia sexually, but I didn’t see other desires for her or much relationship development. They were always on the run.
The ending wasn’t as feel good as I normally hope for in romance novels. Yes the hero and heroine get together, but there was some sadness, maybe a feeling of wanting more of something.
DATA:
Story length: 416 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scene: 3. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 13. Setting: current day Venezuela and a little bit of Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright: 2011. Genre: romantic suspense.
May 27, 2011
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
The story opens with Zak in bed, naked woman in his arms and a gun pointed at his head. So…no dull, slow start with this one! And the story didn’t let up. The action started at page one and just when our hero and heroine catch their breaths, they’re off and running again.
Zak, his brother Gideon, and naked woman Acadia are all taken prisoner by a group of Guerrillas for what they’re told is for ransom. Zak and Gideon are millionaires, probably a million times over, being founders of an Internet company ZAG Search. Acadia, thinking that possibly the captors caught wind that she herself is wealthy, having just won a Kansas lottery ($500,000!) realizes pretty fast that in fact, no, they weren’t captured for her money, she was just the unlucky person in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong man.
Our trio manages to escape, but become separated. Gideon already injured convinces Zak to take care of Acadia while he goes it alone and they all plan to meet up in a few days in Caracas. The trek doesn’t go smoothly as Zak and Acadia find themselves constantly dodging the enemy and having no idea who is behind any of this. They finally make it to Caracas but Gideon is missing and when he doesn’t check in, Zak gets in touch with friends, including their business partner Buck, to help get the resources to find Gideon. During this process, Zak realizes that not everything is what it seems in his life and who exactly wants him captured and dead is beyond belief.
While the suspense kept the story moving at a pretty good clip, I was most pleasantly surprised with the humor. Acadia cracked me up for the entire book. When she’s nervous she talks. A lot. And lies. She was squeamish during their time in the jungle, with good reason (all those nasty bugs) but when she needed to get things done, when she was the one who needed to take care of Zak, she found a way and pulled something out of her SCOTTeVEST. I don’t hike or camp or do anything really adventurous, but dammit, I want a SCOTTeVEST!
Zak’s sixth sense – I’m not really sure what to think of it, I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it and it appears to be the launching pad for the rest of series. I will love his ability for all time if he’s able to use it to find a certain someone in the next book…at least I’m hoping this happens in book 2!
This a really nice 4-star read – It’s a fast paced suspense story, with great romance, a prickly hero I totally loved and a heroine who had me laughing one minute and cheering for her the next. Very much looking forward to book 2.
The story opens with Zak in bed, naked woman in his arms and a gun pointed at his head. So…no dull, slow start with this one! And the story didn’t let up. The action started at page one and just when our hero and heroine catch their breaths, they’re off and running again.
Zak, his brother Gideon, and naked woman Acadia are all taken prisoner by a group of Guerrillas for what they’re told is for ransom. Zak and Gideon are millionaires, probably a million times over, being founders of an Internet company ZAG Search. Acadia, thinking that possibly the captors caught wind that she herself is wealthy, having just won a Kansas lottery ($500,000!) realizes pretty fast that in fact, no, they weren’t captured for her money, she was just the unlucky person in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong man.
Our trio manages to escape, but become separated. Gideon already injured convinces Zak to take care of Acadia while he goes it alone and they all plan to meet up in a few days in Caracas. The trek doesn’t go smoothly as Zak and Acadia find themselves constantly dodging the enemy and having no idea who is behind any of this. They finally make it to Caracas but Gideon is missing and when he doesn’t check in, Zak gets in touch with friends, including their business partner Buck, to help get the resources to find Gideon. During this process, Zak realizes that not everything is what it seems in his life and who exactly wants him captured and dead is beyond belief.
While the suspense kept the story moving at a pretty good clip, I was most pleasantly surprised with the humor. Acadia cracked me up for the entire book. When she’s nervous she talks. A lot. And lies. She was squeamish during their time in the jungle, with good reason (all those nasty bugs) but when she needed to get things done, when she was the one who needed to take care of Zak, she found a way and pulled something out of her SCOTTeVEST. I don’t hike or camp or do anything really adventurous, but dammit, I want a SCOTTeVEST!
Zak’s sixth sense – I’m not really sure what to think of it, I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it and it appears to be the launching pad for the rest of series. I will love his ability for all time if he’s able to use it to find a certain someone in the next book…at least I’m hoping this happens in book 2!
This a really nice 4-star read – It’s a fast paced suspense story, with great romance, a prickly hero I totally loved and a heroine who had me laughing one minute and cheering for her the next. Very much looking forward to book 2.
May 9, 2012
Kimber's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
4.5 Stars
This is the first book by Cherry Adair I’ve read and it will NOT be my last. Hush was packed full of action and suspense from the beginning until the end. I was on the edge of my seat and could not put this one down. Of course, part of the time I was laughing really hard at the heroine and then squirming in my seat from all the sexy scenes.
After a one-night stand, while still in bed, Zakary and Acadia are taken prisoner, along with Zak’s brother Gideon, and the adventure is off to a thrilling start. They do escape but are separated from Gideon early on and spend the rest of the book trying to figure out why these people want to kill them and trying to rendezvous back up with Gid. These characters are well developed and likable (Zac grew on me) even though much of the story they find it hard to get along. Zak thinks Acadia is the weakest link, but the woman proves to be more resourceful than his male ego is willing to admit. Once she saves his life a time or two he decides maybe there’s more to her than just her good looks.
Our hero is hot, alpha, and stubborn; our heroine capable, funny, and patient. Match made in heaven right? The best part of the book was watching them come together when they seem to not mesh really well, oh, except for the fact they can’t stop thinking about the one night they spent doing the naked mambo in Acadia’s hotel room. The chemistry is undeniable and the sex scenes are very steamy. The writing is witty, cleaver, and edge of your seat, and I loved the paranormal element, which is more like a sixth-sense than any kind of special powers. Plus, it’s the basis for the rest of the trilogy.
I will read the rest of this trilogy without hesitation. It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
Enjoy everyone!
4.5 Stars
This is the first book by Cherry Adair I’ve read and it will NOT be my last. Hush was packed full of action and suspense from the beginning until the end. I was on the edge of my seat and could not put this one down. Of course, part of the time I was laughing really hard at the heroine and then squirming in my seat from all the sexy scenes.
After a one-night stand, while still in bed, Zakary and Acadia are taken prisoner, along with Zak’s brother Gideon, and the adventure is off to a thrilling start. They do escape but are separated from Gideon early on and spend the rest of the book trying to figure out why these people want to kill them and trying to rendezvous back up with Gid. These characters are well developed and likable (Zac grew on me) even though much of the story they find it hard to get along. Zak thinks Acadia is the weakest link, but the woman proves to be more resourceful than his male ego is willing to admit. Once she saves his life a time or two he decides maybe there’s more to her than just her good looks.
Our hero is hot, alpha, and stubborn; our heroine capable, funny, and patient. Match made in heaven right? The best part of the book was watching them come together when they seem to not mesh really well, oh, except for the fact they can’t stop thinking about the one night they spent doing the naked mambo in Acadia’s hotel room. The chemistry is undeniable and the sex scenes are very steamy. The writing is witty, cleaver, and edge of your seat, and I loved the paranormal element, which is more like a sixth-sense than any kind of special powers. Plus, it’s the basis for the rest of the trilogy.
I will read the rest of this trilogy without hesitation. It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
Enjoy everyone!
May 20, 2011
Hush
Zachary Stark and his brother come to Venezuela to seek adventure but they may find more adventure they can handle.
Arcadia Gray is always the dependable, predictable friend. So when she went back to her hotel with the sexy male from the bar she thought she was being adventurous , little did she know her adventure just begun.
Zack awakes from a fun night of wild sex with a beautiful a woman to find the hotel filled with armed goons for heir. Then to be knocked out and wake tied up in a van with his brother and the woman from the night before. Zack must get them out of this situation and keep her safe which with his past is ridiculous any one would depend on him for safety. They must get free and find out who has set out to kidnap them. What they will discover may surprise them.
Ill be honest when I first said yes to review this book I was only half paying attention to the synopsis and thought it was more paranormal, but when the book showed up and I read back of the book I was shocked it was romantic suspense . So then I avoided it for a few weeks then broke down and read it. I was pleasantly surprised! The story was fast paced and has plenty of hot and steamy scenes. The sexual tension between Zack and Arcadia was magnetic leavening you yearning for more.
The story keeps you constantly on your toes. You are constantly engaged in the story just on the verge of something, just waiting to see what will happen next. The ending was a surprise I didn't see coming which I enjoyed immensely. My favorite scene is In the jungle when Zack is delirious from blood loss and fever. He was cute despite his current situation.
Even though I did enjoy this book I do not see myself branching out of the paranormal world often. I would definitely recommend this book.
**Athennna**
Zachary Stark and his brother come to Venezuela to seek adventure but they may find more adventure they can handle.
Arcadia Gray is always the dependable, predictable friend. So when she went back to her hotel with the sexy male from the bar she thought she was being adventurous , little did she know her adventure just begun.
Zack awakes from a fun night of wild sex with a beautiful a woman to find the hotel filled with armed goons for heir. Then to be knocked out and wake tied up in a van with his brother and the woman from the night before. Zack must get them out of this situation and keep her safe which with his past is ridiculous any one would depend on him for safety. They must get free and find out who has set out to kidnap them. What they will discover may surprise them.
Ill be honest when I first said yes to review this book I was only half paying attention to the synopsis and thought it was more paranormal, but when the book showed up and I read back of the book I was shocked it was romantic suspense . So then I avoided it for a few weeks then broke down and read it. I was pleasantly surprised! The story was fast paced and has plenty of hot and steamy scenes. The sexual tension between Zack and Arcadia was magnetic leavening you yearning for more.
The story keeps you constantly on your toes. You are constantly engaged in the story just on the verge of something, just waiting to see what will happen next. The ending was a surprise I didn't see coming which I enjoyed immensely. My favorite scene is In the jungle when Zack is delirious from blood loss and fever. He was cute despite his current situation.
Even though I did enjoy this book I do not see myself branching out of the paranormal world often. I would definitely recommend this book.
**Athennna**
Read
March 14, 2012Here is the backcover copy for HUSH (the one someone put up is the back cover for BLACK MAGIC )
Sorry - I'd put it where it belongs, but I have no idea how to do that.
A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.
Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.
A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, death defying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.
An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead—at any cost
Cheers
Cherry
www.cherryadair.com
Sorry - I'd put it where it belongs, but I have no idea how to do that.
A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.
Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.
A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, death defying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.
An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead—at any cost
Cheers
Cherry
www.cherryadair.com
July 16, 2011
Huh...I don't really know what to say... Ms Adair has been on my authors to give a try list for years, but for some reason I convinced myself that I'd hate her writing....and now I'm eating crow and can't seem to care! Lol, :p
Hush was amazing! Great plot, full of action ( both kinds!) well developed characters and surprise endings and big bad's I didn't figure out til the end...and its nice and long!
Now I've go look up more of her titles!
I do apologize for the short review though...I was so sure I'd hate the book I put it down a bunch of times and am now foggy on the details....the only thing that really stands out Is how blown away I am :)
Hush was amazing! Great plot, full of action ( both kinds!) well developed characters and surprise endings and big bad's I didn't figure out til the end...and its nice and long!
Now I've go look up more of her titles!
I do apologize for the short review though...I was so sure I'd hate the book I put it down a bunch of times and am now foggy on the details....the only thing that really stands out Is how blown away I am :)
February 23, 2012
Sweet Mary I'm gonna have nightmares for a week after this one! But so, so worth it. Once I started Hush I absolutely could not put it down. Just loved it! From characters to the plot and all the action and twists along the way. Could have done without the dinner plate sized spiders and snakes the size of your thigh (cue nightmares!) and I will never, ever, be visiting the jungle but other than that it was nicely done and an enjoyable read. Wasn't at all what I was expecting but sometimes that's a good thing, right? I really thought this was going to be a full on paranormal but in reality the paranormal was just an itty little bit of things. I liked the addition of it though. It was an interesting little twist that had me guessing at what it meant to the overall story.
Acadia Gray may be one of my favorite heroines. First. What a fantastic name! Such a nice name to say. She's not your typical heroine. You know, the one that immediately knows how to kick ass and is cool and collected in the face of danger. No, not Acadia. She well and truly freaks the hell out when they're being kidnapped. I loved that about her. She's scared, panicking, near fainting from fear and can't keep her mouth shut from nerves. Pretty much what I'd do.
"She had absolutely no idea how to interpret the look he'd just given her. Run? Stay where you are? Dive for the floor? Drop dead? In books and movies, the helpless heroine always knew what her hero's silent stares meant. Hell, those heroines could read a whole chapter into a single glance. In real life--not so much."
She doesn't consider herself brave or a hero. She manages a sports store and likes her simple, boring and safe life. This isn't the type of adventure she thrives on. She's organized as hell but that's her only superpower and she's completely okay with that. She chatters on and on when she's nervous, is a terrible liar, has a fantastically sarcastic mouth, doesn't know any special kick-their-ass moves and is a bit of an organization nut. She's got this whole MacGyver/Marry Poppins thing going on with a sporting vest and hidden pockets that is beyond awesome and save their lives multiple times. So, really, she does kick ass in her own special way. She manages to have a pretty good sense of humor despite the unpleasant situation. A little sarcastic no doubt but funny none the less.
***
"Kansas?" His laugh sounded rusty, and he stopped to stare at her. His eyes looked very green and were deceptively filled with laughter. Clearly a trick of the light.
Acadia scowled. "Yes, Kansas. What's so funny?"
He started walking again before the guards could prod him. "Keep moving. Nothing, Dorthy."
Infuriating man. "You weren't held as a baby, were you?"
"I have pictures."
Acadia made a rude noise. "Obviously Photoshopped."
****
"I'm worked up. I'm just too tired to show it by exhuberant movements and wild cries of delight." Her eyes glinted from beneath a spiky fan of lashes. "I'm quietly worked up."
- Acadia to Zak after finally getting to safety
****
Now, Zak Stark, well It takes a while for him to grow on you. He's surly, a pain in the ass, infuriating, and really just a right bastard to Acadia for a good long while. He has a serious chip on his shoulder where women are concerned or rather what he sees as a certain type of woman and keeps underestimating Acadia because of it. Just like Acadia he's not your typical hero and damned if he wants to be one or have anyone relying on him to keep them safe. So. Not quite lovable right of the bat but he does still manage to win you over by the end of the story. He's an adrenalin junkie to the extreme and does pretty great under pressure and in the face of dangerous situations. Keeps his calm for the most part. He's got a few moves in the hero department (even if reluctantly) but still manages to get himself knocked out for a while on more than one occasion and ends up having to be taken care of because of it. So a hero but not a particularly smooth one. I kinda liked that though. How he and Acadia both needed one another to survive and had to rely on the other. When he finally stops being an unbelievable and sarcastic ass where Acadia is concerned he turns out to be a pretty great and caring guy. Takes charge, gets what needs to be done, done.
"Oh my God! Acadia stared at him in awe. "You stole a police car?"
He turned on the lights. "No one was using it." he said dryly, driving at a sedate pace down the alley, away from the public parking lot on the other side of the buildings and the growing assortment of officials. "Buckle up."
The story itself is easy to get into and follow. It's fast paced from page one until the very end and keeps your heart pumping. For an over 400 page book I was completely hooked the entire time and never felt bored or ready for things to end. I liked the interactions between the main characters even when things were surly and sarcastic. Maybe then especially. Things between the two of them are seriously steamy. Whew. Yeah, he definitely has some delicious moves in that area. Yum. The story has a nice blend of heart breaking moments mixed in with some pretty funny and sweet ones with Acadia and Zak. Enough details were revealed throughout to keep things from getting too frustrating but still leave you wondering, just like the characters, what the hell was behind all of the attacks and kidnappings. In the end the villain wasn't all that huge of a surprise. I'd had a feeling about them for a while before everything was revealed. The actual reveal was a little on the WTF side. They are seriously twisted and off their rocker. There was one surprise towards the end that had me yelling "NOOOOO". It was so not how I saw things panning out for one of the characters and it just broke my heart a little.
So, overall a pretty damn good read. Can't wait to see where the trilogy goes from here.
Originally posted at Herding Cats & Burning Soup
Acadia Gray may be one of my favorite heroines. First. What a fantastic name! Such a nice name to say. She's not your typical heroine. You know, the one that immediately knows how to kick ass and is cool and collected in the face of danger. No, not Acadia. She well and truly freaks the hell out when they're being kidnapped. I loved that about her. She's scared, panicking, near fainting from fear and can't keep her mouth shut from nerves. Pretty much what I'd do.
"She had absolutely no idea how to interpret the look he'd just given her. Run? Stay where you are? Dive for the floor? Drop dead? In books and movies, the helpless heroine always knew what her hero's silent stares meant. Hell, those heroines could read a whole chapter into a single glance. In real life--not so much."
She doesn't consider herself brave or a hero. She manages a sports store and likes her simple, boring and safe life. This isn't the type of adventure she thrives on. She's organized as hell but that's her only superpower and she's completely okay with that. She chatters on and on when she's nervous, is a terrible liar, has a fantastically sarcastic mouth, doesn't know any special kick-their-ass moves and is a bit of an organization nut. She's got this whole MacGyver/Marry Poppins thing going on with a sporting vest and hidden pockets that is beyond awesome and save their lives multiple times. So, really, she does kick ass in her own special way. She manages to have a pretty good sense of humor despite the unpleasant situation. A little sarcastic no doubt but funny none the less.
***
"Kansas?" His laugh sounded rusty, and he stopped to stare at her. His eyes looked very green and were deceptively filled with laughter. Clearly a trick of the light.
Acadia scowled. "Yes, Kansas. What's so funny?"
He started walking again before the guards could prod him. "Keep moving. Nothing, Dorthy."
Infuriating man. "You weren't held as a baby, were you?"
"I have pictures."
Acadia made a rude noise. "Obviously Photoshopped."
****
"I'm worked up. I'm just too tired to show it by exhuberant movements and wild cries of delight." Her eyes glinted from beneath a spiky fan of lashes. "I'm quietly worked up."
- Acadia to Zak after finally getting to safety
****
Now, Zak Stark, well It takes a while for him to grow on you. He's surly, a pain in the ass, infuriating, and really just a right bastard to Acadia for a good long while. He has a serious chip on his shoulder where women are concerned or rather what he sees as a certain type of woman and keeps underestimating Acadia because of it. Just like Acadia he's not your typical hero and damned if he wants to be one or have anyone relying on him to keep them safe. So. Not quite lovable right of the bat but he does still manage to win you over by the end of the story. He's an adrenalin junkie to the extreme and does pretty great under pressure and in the face of dangerous situations. Keeps his calm for the most part. He's got a few moves in the hero department (even if reluctantly) but still manages to get himself knocked out for a while on more than one occasion and ends up having to be taken care of because of it. So a hero but not a particularly smooth one. I kinda liked that though. How he and Acadia both needed one another to survive and had to rely on the other. When he finally stops being an unbelievable and sarcastic ass where Acadia is concerned he turns out to be a pretty great and caring guy. Takes charge, gets what needs to be done, done.
"Oh my God! Acadia stared at him in awe. "You stole a police car?"
He turned on the lights. "No one was using it." he said dryly, driving at a sedate pace down the alley, away from the public parking lot on the other side of the buildings and the growing assortment of officials. "Buckle up."
The story itself is easy to get into and follow. It's fast paced from page one until the very end and keeps your heart pumping. For an over 400 page book I was completely hooked the entire time and never felt bored or ready for things to end. I liked the interactions between the main characters even when things were surly and sarcastic. Maybe then especially. Things between the two of them are seriously steamy. Whew. Yeah, he definitely has some delicious moves in that area. Yum. The story has a nice blend of heart breaking moments mixed in with some pretty funny and sweet ones with Acadia and Zak. Enough details were revealed throughout to keep things from getting too frustrating but still leave you wondering, just like the characters, what the hell was behind all of the attacks and kidnappings. In the end the villain wasn't all that huge of a surprise. I'd had a feeling about them for a while before everything was revealed. The actual reveal was a little on the WTF side. They are seriously twisted and off their rocker. There was one surprise towards the end that had me yelling "NOOOOO". It was so not how I saw things panning out for one of the characters and it just broke my heart a little.
So, overall a pretty damn good read. Can't wait to see where the trilogy goes from here.
Originally posted at Herding Cats & Burning Soup
April 10, 2025
Some of the word usage is… giving boomer? Fuckit is not one word. Suspending disbelief was rough. Inconsistent descriptions and unreasonable / illogical behaviors. I still kinda enjoyed it, it was a very fast moving adventure.
June 7, 2025
1. A Deadly, Exotic Adventure
Venezuela’s untamed jungle, the world’s highest waterfall, and a kidnapping gone wrong
💥 2. Brothers in Peril—With a Supernatural Twist
After a near-fatal escape, Zak awakens with a mysterious sixth sense—and now the hunt for his missing brother becomes a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
🔥 3. A One-Night Stand Turned Lifeline
Zak knows nothing about Acadia Gray—except that she was his last reckless mistake before hell broke loose.
🔫 4. Ruthless Enemies & Twisted Games
The kidnappers are bad enough—but when a new, more vicious player enters the game, the stakes skyrocket.
🕵️♂️ 5. A Hero With a New, Dangerous Edge
Zak’s newfound sixth sense adds a thrilling layer of mystery.
💋 6. Slow-Burn Tension in a Life-or-Death Race
great fun and very well written
Venezuela’s untamed jungle, the world’s highest waterfall, and a kidnapping gone wrong
💥 2. Brothers in Peril—With a Supernatural Twist
After a near-fatal escape, Zak awakens with a mysterious sixth sense—and now the hunt for his missing brother becomes a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
🔥 3. A One-Night Stand Turned Lifeline
Zak knows nothing about Acadia Gray—except that she was his last reckless mistake before hell broke loose.
🔫 4. Ruthless Enemies & Twisted Games
The kidnappers are bad enough—but when a new, more vicious player enters the game, the stakes skyrocket.
🕵️♂️ 5. A Hero With a New, Dangerous Edge
Zak’s newfound sixth sense adds a thrilling layer of mystery.
💋 6. Slow-Burn Tension in a Life-or-Death Race
great fun and very well written
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2011
Let me start by saying I loved this book! It had gorgeous scenery, a thrill ride adventure, a smart and useful woman and a drop dead sexy man.
I enjoyed Acadia’s character simply because she was witty, tougher then she looked and she had this amazing outfit full of hidden pockets that seemed to carry everything. Seriously…everything. At one point a tent comes out of her pants. Acadia wasn’t planning on being stuck in the jungle by any means, but she’s nothing if not prepared…”just in case”. When her one night stand turns into much more when they are kidnapped, things spiral out of her tightly gripped control very quickly.
Zachary Stark is a playboy. He has made his money with his brother and business partner setting up a mega popular online search engine, and now he just wants to play. Take death defying risks in the name of adventure and seduce willing women. Getting the sexy woman he met in a bar back to her hotel room in the Venezuelan countyside isn’t hard. Their night of passion quickly becomes a nightmare when they are kidnapped along with Zak’s brother Gideon.
Cherry’s writing in very descriptive without feeling overly so. I tend to shy away from page upon page of description but Cherry finds a comfortable medium that shares the lushness of the jungle without making me feel like she’s trying too hard to get me to envision the surroundings. And what awesome surroundings it is. The jungle leaps off the page! She has a knack for involving characters from her T-Flac series flawlessly as well. They fit right into the story as if they belong there. I love books with crossover characters so her ability to do that in her new series is great for me. It’s nice to get bits and pieces of past hero’s in her new works.
Acadia and Zak’s relationship takes time to evolve and I enjoyed that as well. Zak is carrying a lot of guilt over a past relationship and it takes Acadia quite a while to break through his concrete walls. The sex scenes are spicy hot and just the right *cough* length to keep me drooling over Zak. Even though there are many times in the book I wanted to smack the attitude right out of him. And he definitely had attitude in spades.
The twists and turns the story took kept me on edge until the last page. I really never saw the ending coming and it definitely left me wanting more. I also quite enjoyed a character with my name. She was in the book but never actually there, more like she was talked about…so that leaves hope that she might turn up again later…hehehe.
There is a slight “6th sense” for one of the characters in Hush. Those that aren’t used to paranormal-ish aspects might have a hard time with this, but I enjoyed it. Though I can understand if some don’t quite know what to make of it. I think because I read so much paranormal romance it really didn’t faze me. No one has horns or a tale or wings. No one drinks blood or turns into an animal. The aspect in Hush is more subtle. So while it may bother some readers, this reader was fine with it.
Cherry Adair starts her Lodestone series with a jungle adventure you won’t soon forget. Her fast paced, skillful storytelling will leave you guessing and wishing the thrill ride never had to end!
I enjoyed Acadia’s character simply because she was witty, tougher then she looked and she had this amazing outfit full of hidden pockets that seemed to carry everything. Seriously…everything. At one point a tent comes out of her pants. Acadia wasn’t planning on being stuck in the jungle by any means, but she’s nothing if not prepared…”just in case”. When her one night stand turns into much more when they are kidnapped, things spiral out of her tightly gripped control very quickly.
Zachary Stark is a playboy. He has made his money with his brother and business partner setting up a mega popular online search engine, and now he just wants to play. Take death defying risks in the name of adventure and seduce willing women. Getting the sexy woman he met in a bar back to her hotel room in the Venezuelan countyside isn’t hard. Their night of passion quickly becomes a nightmare when they are kidnapped along with Zak’s brother Gideon.
Cherry’s writing in very descriptive without feeling overly so. I tend to shy away from page upon page of description but Cherry finds a comfortable medium that shares the lushness of the jungle without making me feel like she’s trying too hard to get me to envision the surroundings. And what awesome surroundings it is. The jungle leaps off the page! She has a knack for involving characters from her T-Flac series flawlessly as well. They fit right into the story as if they belong there. I love books with crossover characters so her ability to do that in her new series is great for me. It’s nice to get bits and pieces of past hero’s in her new works.
Acadia and Zak’s relationship takes time to evolve and I enjoyed that as well. Zak is carrying a lot of guilt over a past relationship and it takes Acadia quite a while to break through his concrete walls. The sex scenes are spicy hot and just the right *cough* length to keep me drooling over Zak. Even though there are many times in the book I wanted to smack the attitude right out of him. And he definitely had attitude in spades.
The twists and turns the story took kept me on edge until the last page. I really never saw the ending coming and it definitely left me wanting more. I also quite enjoyed a character with my name. She was in the book but never actually there, more like she was talked about…so that leaves hope that she might turn up again later…hehehe.
There is a slight “6th sense” for one of the characters in Hush. Those that aren’t used to paranormal-ish aspects might have a hard time with this, but I enjoyed it. Though I can understand if some don’t quite know what to make of it. I think because I read so much paranormal romance it really didn’t faze me. No one has horns or a tale or wings. No one drinks blood or turns into an animal. The aspect in Hush is more subtle. So while it may bother some readers, this reader was fine with it.
Cherry Adair starts her Lodestone series with a jungle adventure you won’t soon forget. Her fast paced, skillful storytelling will leave you guessing and wishing the thrill ride never had to end!
November 29, 2015
This had a great start but then started slowing down, making the first 1/2 just a trek through the jungle with armed guerillas. I was wondering, 'when is this going to change up . Ok, I get it, they exchange humorous barbs and annoy one another. Only problem is that they were both starting to annoy me.
So finally finished this though the last 1/4 was mostly tear my hair out boring. I thought this was paranormal romance, not just contemporary with a twist, or I wouldn't have even picked it up. Unless a contemporary romance is recommending, I rarely read them. Even when recommended, it has to sound interesting. So this did sound interesting, and the blurb on the back lead me to believe it was PNR, right up my alley, right? Wrong.
The "psychic sense" that was alluded to didn't even show up until over 1/2 through the book then it was not
This was just stupid and really just made it so that the story could end/proceed. It seemed like it was added in to
So 3/4 of the way through, I knew where the information leak was. I wondered when the lead was going to realize it and take precautions. Nope he gets to it in snail fashion and Acadia mucks up the thought process putting in idiot possibilities. For such a brilliant woman one minute, she was an idiot at others. This was too many times to count. And Zach didn't seem so much a hero as a man with too much testosterone.
So when ever I would think, OK finally this is interesting, it would be screwed up with inane scenes and talk, or idiotic realization that should have been too late. These two should have been killed over and over. At the end, I wanted them all dead except the one who died.
In order to make it so the book wasn't too predictable the author at first adds in the information that the special ops finds out, but instead of going in that direction and it actually being an interesting twist, she twists it up even more and makes it completely and totally unlikely.
What a waste of time. I thought it would get a 2 star OK at 3/4 but the ending made it just turn horrible, horrible. Add to it boring sex scenes and I can truly say, I really didn't like it, wish I didn't read it.
So finally finished this though the last 1/4 was mostly tear my hair out boring. I thought this was paranormal romance, not just contemporary with a twist, or I wouldn't have even picked it up. Unless a contemporary romance is recommending, I rarely read them. Even when recommended, it has to sound interesting. So this did sound interesting, and the blurb on the back lead me to believe it was PNR, right up my alley, right? Wrong.
The "psychic sense" that was alluded to didn't even show up until over 1/2 through the book then it was not
This was just stupid and really just made it so that the story could end/proceed. It seemed like it was added in to
So 3/4 of the way through, I knew where the information leak was. I wondered when the lead was going to realize it and take precautions. Nope he gets to it in snail fashion and Acadia mucks up the thought process putting in idiot possibilities. For such a brilliant woman one minute, she was an idiot at others. This was too many times to count. And Zach didn't seem so much a hero as a man with too much testosterone.
So when ever I would think, OK finally this is interesting, it would be screwed up with inane scenes and talk, or idiotic realization that should have been too late. These two should have been killed over and over. At the end, I wanted them all dead except the one who died.
In order to make it so the book wasn't too predictable the author at first adds in the information that the special ops finds out, but instead of going in that direction and it actually being an interesting twist, she twists it up even more and makes it completely and totally unlikely.
What a waste of time. I thought it would get a 2 star OK at 3/4 but the ending made it just turn horrible, horrible. Add to it boring sex scenes and I can truly say, I really didn't like it, wish I didn't read it.
April 28, 2011
This the first book I've read by Cherry Adair and let me say this, it won't be the last. HUSH immediately starts off with intense action. Zak and Acadia are two strangers who meet and have a one-night stand. That one-night stand turns into a kidnapping when armed men burst into Acadia's hotel room and Zak wakes up with a gun to his head. Acadia is a woman who wanted a little adventure in her life. She recently won the lottery and wants to take an adventurous vacation with her girls. She gets more than what she bargained for when she hooks up with Zak and is involved in a kidnapping plot where the stakes are high and no one's sure they'll make it out alive.
Acadia is a character that walked the fine line between annoying and funny. She would be annoying with her know-it-all attitude but then would say something sarcastic and funny and you would forget that she was being annoying. I loved the banter between Zak and Acadia. I loved Zak's surly attitude and I also liked that Acadia did not back down. She wasn't going to stand off to the side and let the men make all the decisions. She was determined to be a part of the solution. Zak is an adrenaline junkie; he's used to getting himself out of tough situations. He feels that he doesn't need Acadia's help. Or so he thinks. Acadia surprises Zak at every turn. Proving that she's more of a help, than a hindrance. Thanks to super-organized Acadia, she helps them get out of tough situations and saves their lives.
HUSH kept me engaged from the first page. Cherry Adair did an excellent job of describing the scenery and the action without being overly wordy. I felt like I was watching a movie. The plot moved at a steady pace and not once was there a lull in the story. There is a slight paranormal aspect to the plot. After reading some early reviews, I was prepared for it. It wasn't a major plot point throughout the book. It did kind of throw me off because up into that point, the book was nothing but action and suspense. The paranormal plot twist didn't deter from the overall story for me. In the plot summary, it does mention that Zak develops a "sixth sense" but I still had to get used to the paranormal twist that was now part of the story.
If you like action packed romantic suspense, I highly recommend HUSH. The Who, Why and What For kept me guessing until the very end. I'm normally good at figuring out who the bad guy is but I was totally off base with this one. I love it! Zak and Acadia, despite being on the run, managed to squeeze in some steamy, super hot smexy time. They didn't let a little kidnapping and running from Venezuelan guerrillas stop them from getting their groove on.
HUSH is one exciting and thrilling ride.
Acadia is a character that walked the fine line between annoying and funny. She would be annoying with her know-it-all attitude but then would say something sarcastic and funny and you would forget that she was being annoying. I loved the banter between Zak and Acadia. I loved Zak's surly attitude and I also liked that Acadia did not back down. She wasn't going to stand off to the side and let the men make all the decisions. She was determined to be a part of the solution. Zak is an adrenaline junkie; he's used to getting himself out of tough situations. He feels that he doesn't need Acadia's help. Or so he thinks. Acadia surprises Zak at every turn. Proving that she's more of a help, than a hindrance. Thanks to super-organized Acadia, she helps them get out of tough situations and saves their lives.
HUSH kept me engaged from the first page. Cherry Adair did an excellent job of describing the scenery and the action without being overly wordy. I felt like I was watching a movie. The plot moved at a steady pace and not once was there a lull in the story. There is a slight paranormal aspect to the plot. After reading some early reviews, I was prepared for it. It wasn't a major plot point throughout the book. It did kind of throw me off because up into that point, the book was nothing but action and suspense. The paranormal plot twist didn't deter from the overall story for me. In the plot summary, it does mention that Zak develops a "sixth sense" but I still had to get used to the paranormal twist that was now part of the story.
If you like action packed romantic suspense, I highly recommend HUSH. The Who, Why and What For kept me guessing until the very end. I'm normally good at figuring out who the bad guy is but I was totally off base with this one. I love it! Zak and Acadia, despite being on the run, managed to squeeze in some steamy, super hot smexy time. They didn't let a little kidnapping and running from Venezuelan guerrillas stop them from getting their groove on.
HUSH is one exciting and thrilling ride.
May 9, 2011
This is easily a 4 1/2 star for me...I loved it and was bawling through the end of it! Full review to follow...just need to sort out my thoughts about it. Great book!!!
My Review:
This book jumps right into it- opening scene- Hero, Zak, and Heroine, Acadia, have already done the deed after a one-night hook-up. Zak wakes up with a gun shoved into his head and this is the beginning of an amazing action-packed adventure through the jungles of Venezuela.
I'll be honest with you...as I am writing this review, I am still reeling from the emotions that this book invoked. I spent the final 2 chapters of the book bawling- that's usually the sign of a good book. :o)
THis book is 416 pages of pure adrenaline and adventure. There is no stopping and quite honestly, it almost became a negative in this book because it became a bit exhausting. But at the same time, it makes for an exhilarating read. The only thing hotter than the adventure in this book is the chemistry between Acadia and Zak. They had an explosive night of passion, but it was supposed to be just that...one night. So when they suddenly find themselves trudging through the jungles of Venezuela at gunpoint, that passion takes another form...aggravating the heck out of each other.
You don't think that reading about walking through the jungle for pages on end as very exciting, but Cherry Adair makes it work. From watching Gideon and Zak working silently together, to the snark between Acadia & Zak, to the wonders of Acadia's wonderful pocket-filled vest...this trek is highly entertaining and fun. There's just a special magic/zing between the 3 characters that seemed real. I connected with them.
I loved how Acadia proved stronger and more resourceful than either Zac or she expected. She proves over and over again that, while she never would have chosen to go on this adventure, she absolutely handles everything thrown at her. As Zak and she learn to respect each other, their passion takes hold again and this turns into a novel that can be considered steamy for more than just the jungle heat and humidity.
Another aspect that I loved about this book was the relationship between the brothers, Zak and Gideon. They are so vital to one another- there are a lot of layers of emotion here and it made the book so emotional for me. I only hope that Gideon shows up again in future books of this series...really, really crossing my fingers here!
There is a twist to this book which obviously is the basis for the future books. I look forward to seeing how Cherry Adair proceeds. It's bound to be a lot of fun!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Tons of adventure, tons of emotion, and a suspense finale that I never saw coming
My Review:
This book jumps right into it- opening scene- Hero, Zak, and Heroine, Acadia, have already done the deed after a one-night hook-up. Zak wakes up with a gun shoved into his head and this is the beginning of an amazing action-packed adventure through the jungles of Venezuela.
I'll be honest with you...as I am writing this review, I am still reeling from the emotions that this book invoked. I spent the final 2 chapters of the book bawling- that's usually the sign of a good book. :o)
THis book is 416 pages of pure adrenaline and adventure. There is no stopping and quite honestly, it almost became a negative in this book because it became a bit exhausting. But at the same time, it makes for an exhilarating read. The only thing hotter than the adventure in this book is the chemistry between Acadia and Zak. They had an explosive night of passion, but it was supposed to be just that...one night. So when they suddenly find themselves trudging through the jungles of Venezuela at gunpoint, that passion takes another form...aggravating the heck out of each other.
You don't think that reading about walking through the jungle for pages on end as very exciting, but Cherry Adair makes it work. From watching Gideon and Zak working silently together, to the snark between Acadia & Zak, to the wonders of Acadia's wonderful pocket-filled vest...this trek is highly entertaining and fun. There's just a special magic/zing between the 3 characters that seemed real. I connected with them.
I loved how Acadia proved stronger and more resourceful than either Zac or she expected. She proves over and over again that, while she never would have chosen to go on this adventure, she absolutely handles everything thrown at her. As Zak and she learn to respect each other, their passion takes hold again and this turns into a novel that can be considered steamy for more than just the jungle heat and humidity.
Another aspect that I loved about this book was the relationship between the brothers, Zak and Gideon. They are so vital to one another- there are a lot of layers of emotion here and it made the book so emotional for me. I only hope that Gideon shows up again in future books of this series...really, really crossing my fingers here!
There is a twist to this book which obviously is the basis for the future books. I look forward to seeing how Cherry Adair proceeds. It's bound to be a lot of fun!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Tons of adventure, tons of emotion, and a suspense finale that I never saw coming
April 28, 2011
HUSH BY CHERRY ADAIR is an exciting romantic suspense set in the present day jungles of Venezuela.It is fast paced,action packed,full of adventure.danger and romance. The plot is easy to follow,edgy,sexually charged,and deadly with lethal consequences. The characters are believable,lovable,will capture your heart,and very engaging. While theirs is some witty banter,this story full of danger,high octane action,love,mystery,romance, sensuality,healing,loss,danger and survival in the deadly jungle of Venezuela. What was supposed to be a one stand for Acadia and Zakery turns into a for fight for their lives,along with Zak's brother,Gideon,in a deadly game of cat and mouse with kidnappers. Not only is this a game of cat and mouse,but a diversion for Zak and Acadia,and .a deadly adventure that will change all of their lives forever.Zak's wife died nearly six years ago,leaving him with guilt,distrust and taking more dangerous thrill seeking adventures that catapults therm into deadly game of life and death.A ruthless opponent wants the Stark brothers dead and will do everything in their power to do so,including killing the Innocent Acadia.While Zak and Acadia struggle to invade capture of the kidnappers,try to survive the jungles,fight their ever growing attraction to each other,stay alive.Zak's brother Gideon, is struggling to stay alive,after being recaptured by the deadly kidnappers.They have no idea who or why someone is out to kidnap them.although,they are both millionaires and own a Internet search engine company,with another partner.This is a story of survival,new beginnings,loss,grief and healing which is full of high octane action and edgy adventure.What a spine tingling read that will leave you wanting more.I would highly recommend this story especially if you enjoy an fast paced never a dull moment story that will keep you reading long into the night.This book was received for the purpose of review from the publisher and Book Blogs and details can be found at Pocket Star Books,an division ofSimon and Schuster and My Book Addiction and More.
March 29, 2015
I first read this book several years ago, when the paperback was published. At the time, I could not review it, well I can now. Zakary 'Zak' Stark and his brother Gideon 'Gid' Stark are co-founders of the immensely popular web browser ZAG. Rich, good looking, and charismatic, the brothers are only 10 months apart. They live to do fearless, death defying things. That is where we find them when the book starts. They are in Venezuela, to BASE jump Angel Falls. But Zak found a little amusement for himself, the night before the base jump. Enter Acadia Gray, a sporting goods store manager from Kansas. About to turn 30, Acadia just wants a simple one night stand with a good looking, charming guy. And does Zak deliver on that!. The story starts the next day, when Zak and Acadia are rudely awoken in their hotel room by armed guerillas. Since Venezuela is well known for kidnappings, what else can they expect? Zak and Gid are being kidnapped for ransom. We follow them through the jungle, through their escape, planes being blown up, and fast car chases. But the book has an unexpected plot twist, that you will never see coming. Acadia is not your typical heroine, she is not brassy, bold or brave. But she is resourceful, and has a vest/cargo pants outfit that would put Mary Poppins carpet bag to shame. You never know what she will pull out of her pocket. Zak is still mourning his wife's death ( in his own way) that occurred two years ago in Haiti. You might even say that he has a death wish. Pair these two together and it is one thing after another. The action in this is great, the sex scenes not as hot as some books in this genre. But it is good. We meet the T-FLAC CEO ( Marc Savin) in this book, but if you want to see more of him, see The Mercenary. The book was good, the plot was interesting, and it kept you guessing until the very end. Book 2 of the Lodestone series just came out, so I really would read this one first. There are other books out in the Lodestone series, titled as the Lodestone Trilogy. But this book started them all
August 10, 2016
This one action packed ride from start to finish. I felt like I was gasping for breath because of the story being unfolded at such a fast rate of speed. Just when I thought, 'Aha! They're safe at last.' Uh-uh, bad guys are on them again.
This is the story of Acadia Gray who comes to Venezuela to tour the falls as just a little adventure she promised herself to recover from her father's death and lead her into the start of going to college as an architect. She is a simple, quiet person who likes to have everything planned and organized.
Acadia's life goes way off the map when she jumps in the sack with Zak Stark just for one night of fun. Zak is Acadia's opposite. He's there with his brother to BASE jump the falls. Zak is an adrenaline junkie with a deathwish from a guilt-ridden past who makes extreme sportsman look staid. But even for him, waking up with his arms about a naked Acadia and an Uzi shoved into his cheek is a bit much.
Zak, Acadia, and his brother Gideon are kidnapped, taken deep into the jungle, and told they are now being held for ransom. This begins their adventure that shows Acadia that she is more resourceful than she thought and shows Zak that maybe life is worth it again, but first they have to survive the jungle and those pursuing them.
The plot is loaded with twists and is not as straight forward as it seems. It has the elements of a thriller as Zak and Acadia learn that they cannot seem to trust anyone and nothing is what it seems.
I enjoyed reading about an action hero that was very flawed and deep down was unsure of himself and a heroine, that while resourceful was not an alpha gal. He was snarky and she babbled under pressure which was almost comical how they learned to deal with each other's stuff.
I thought this was a great start to a new series.
This is the story of Acadia Gray who comes to Venezuela to tour the falls as just a little adventure she promised herself to recover from her father's death and lead her into the start of going to college as an architect. She is a simple, quiet person who likes to have everything planned and organized.
Acadia's life goes way off the map when she jumps in the sack with Zak Stark just for one night of fun. Zak is Acadia's opposite. He's there with his brother to BASE jump the falls. Zak is an adrenaline junkie with a deathwish from a guilt-ridden past who makes extreme sportsman look staid. But even for him, waking up with his arms about a naked Acadia and an Uzi shoved into his cheek is a bit much.
Zak, Acadia, and his brother Gideon are kidnapped, taken deep into the jungle, and told they are now being held for ransom. This begins their adventure that shows Acadia that she is more resourceful than she thought and shows Zak that maybe life is worth it again, but first they have to survive the jungle and those pursuing them.
The plot is loaded with twists and is not as straight forward as it seems. It has the elements of a thriller as Zak and Acadia learn that they cannot seem to trust anyone and nothing is what it seems.
I enjoyed reading about an action hero that was very flawed and deep down was unsure of himself and a heroine, that while resourceful was not an alpha gal. He was snarky and she babbled under pressure which was almost comical how they learned to deal with each other's stuff.
I thought this was a great start to a new series.
March 9, 2023
Hm... let's see... hot brothers, hot smex, lots of adventure, plenty of bad guys and a mystery all in one book? Yep, that is Hush. However, I won't Hush and tell you I enjoyed this adventure. I will also tell you that for 1/2 the book I really hated the hero (anti-hero?) of this book, Zak. He was arrogant, mean, and well... a complete a~, uh, jerk. I just didn't think I would end up liking Zak and I thought Acadia was insane for being as nice to him as she was in this book. Okay, I did get that he was probably her best way out of the lush jungle and away from the gorilla kidnappers, but I was still hoping that she would literally kick his ass at least once or twice.
Oh, and I should say a word or two about Acadia Gray. While at the beginning we might question her good sense, no one should by the end of the book. She never saw herself as adventurous, only boring. Small town girl working in a safe job. However, when impossible odds come her way, she proves not only that she is capable, but strong and a true heroine. She bravely withstood that which would have sunk other people quite easily. So, of course, I liked Acadia, and didn't want her to end up with Zak.
Okay, this is a romance, so Zak slowly and painfully starts to wake up to his true life. He realizes the true pain he caused in his own life and FINALLY stops taking it out on Acadia. Yep, I started to like the boy. And with all good romances, the boy grows up to be a man in the end.
This story is book 1 in the Lodestone trilogy. This book lays the groundwork for the other 2 books so I'm glad I finally liked Zak. ;) It was just published so go out and get a copy. That way you'll be prepared for the next book. :)
Oh, and I should say a word or two about Acadia Gray. While at the beginning we might question her good sense, no one should by the end of the book. She never saw herself as adventurous, only boring. Small town girl working in a safe job. However, when impossible odds come her way, she proves not only that she is capable, but strong and a true heroine. She bravely withstood that which would have sunk other people quite easily. So, of course, I liked Acadia, and didn't want her to end up with Zak.
Okay, this is a romance, so Zak slowly and painfully starts to wake up to his true life. He realizes the true pain he caused in his own life and FINALLY stops taking it out on Acadia. Yep, I started to like the boy. And with all good romances, the boy grows up to be a man in the end.
This story is book 1 in the Lodestone trilogy. This book lays the groundwork for the other 2 books so I'm glad I finally liked Zak. ;) It was just published so go out and get a copy. That way you'll be prepared for the next book. :)
February 21, 2013
Book one in Cherry Adair's new Loadstone series. With book three coming out in March I went back and started from the beginning. Loved it just as much this time around, and still waiting for Cherry to resolve the cliff hanger she left.
After winning the lottery Arcadia Grey takes the kind of adventure I could imagine taking myself, something wild and crazy to just say I did it. I liked her from the start, a gutsy lady, but with a rational side. The fact her secret pockets save the day over and over again makes me laugh as well.
Zak is the kind of gritty, tough as nails, hero I love. His abrasive attitude and constant wonder in Arcadia's inventive solutions to get them out of tough spots makes me laugh.
This book starts with a bang (pun intended) and ends with a twist that I can't wait to find out how it is resolved.
Another solid and great Cherry Adair Romantic Adventure.
After winning the lottery Arcadia Grey takes the kind of adventure I could imagine taking myself, something wild and crazy to just say I did it. I liked her from the start, a gutsy lady, but with a rational side. The fact her secret pockets save the day over and over again makes me laugh as well.
Zak is the kind of gritty, tough as nails, hero I love. His abrasive attitude and constant wonder in Arcadia's inventive solutions to get them out of tough spots makes me laugh.
This book starts with a bang (pun intended) and ends with a twist that I can't wait to find out how it is resolved.
Another solid and great Cherry Adair Romantic Adventure.
June 28, 2011
The relationship between Zak, the adrenaline-charged sexy hero, and Acadia, the sheltered but oh-so-resilient heroine, is what made this story terrific. I can't decide if I liked her more or less than Teal from Undertow in CA's other ongoing series, Cutter Cay, but both are unforgettable. On a scale of one to Scarlett O'Hara, probably an eight.
Their action wasn't the only thing sizzling. The action-packed suspense was off the charts, too. By the end, I was left feeling relieved but ready for more. The story was scary, sad, happy, sad again, and then, finally, surprising and romantic at the same time. What a ride!
Although I kept wondering when the paranormal bit was going to happen, when it did it was unexplained and cool. That's all I'm going to say and I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series.
Their action wasn't the only thing sizzling. The action-packed suspense was off the charts, too. By the end, I was left feeling relieved but ready for more. The story was scary, sad, happy, sad again, and then, finally, surprising and romantic at the same time. What a ride!
Although I kept wondering when the paranormal bit was going to happen, when it did it was unexplained and cool. That's all I'm going to say and I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series.
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