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The Killers #2
Paths
Maya Augustine needed to disappear—her life depended on it. When her path led her to the middle-of-nowhere Virginia, she found the perfect place to hide. A woman on the run, Maya had no business befriending anyone, let alone allowing herself to become involved with a man … especially after her last experience. Even so, she couldn’t help but become obsessed with the bruised, battered, and beautiful killer who walked into her life.
Grady Cain reached rock bottom. His past finally caught up with him, causing him to lose his edge at work and in life. Spiraling down a desperate path of remorse and guilt, Grady wasn’t expecting his refuge to come in the form of a woman. Day in—day out, she was the only thing he’d allowed himself to think about. To focus on. To consume him.
One was running. The other had nothing to run to.
Until these troubled souls crossed paths…
And two paths became one.
Warning: This author is a mom who runs a PG-13 home. This book is not PG-13. She would literally keel over and die if anyone under the age of 18 read this book. If you’re not of age, save an author from an untimely death and go read Harry Potter. He’s awesome.
Grady Cain reached rock bottom. His past finally caught up with him, causing him to lose his edge at work and in life. Spiraling down a desperate path of remorse and guilt, Grady wasn’t expecting his refuge to come in the form of a woman. Day in—day out, she was the only thing he’d allowed himself to think about. To focus on. To consume him.
One was running. The other had nothing to run to.
Until these troubled souls crossed paths…
And two paths became one.
Warning: This author is a mom who runs a PG-13 home. This book is not PG-13. She would literally keel over and die if anyone under the age of 18 read this book. If you’re not of age, save an author from an untimely death and go read Harry Potter. He’s awesome.
ebook
First published April 22, 2017
About the author
Brynne Asher
26 books3,259 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Brynne Asher. Writer of romance. Lover of caffeine and cocktails.
Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
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Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
Sign up for Brynne's newsletter, it's a spam-free zone: http://eepurl.com/gFVMUP
Follow Brynne on the Freakybook: https://www.facebook.com/brynneashera...
Join Brynne's author group, where humans are nice and cows are cool: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Brynn...
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October 17, 2018
Paths is book two in The Killers series by Brynne Asher. This is the first book I have read in this series and can easily be read as a stand alone. This is my third book by Brynne and I can say with no hesitation that she has become a favorite author. Her books have protective, alpha heroes that we can’t help ourselves but to fall in love with as I am sure you will with Grady in this book!
Grady Cain’s life led him to this place, at this time, and to this woman, the object of his obsession. He is injured, both in body and soul, and needed this time to recuperate and figure out what was next for him. At a time when he didn’t have anything to focus on, he found Maya. She just didn’t realize it. He watched her jog through the woods over the security system. He probably started falling for her then, before she even knew who he was.
Maya Augustine needed to hide and what better place than a small town in the middle of nowhere in Virginia. She is a physical therapist but isn’t licensed in Virginia so she is working both as an activities director for a nursing home and as a waitress in a winery. It’s here that she first saw him, the beautiful, brooding man who had unexplained injuries. She never had the nerve to talk to him but always watched him. She felt like she was being a creeper. But seeing him was the highlight of her day.
Maya had to run from her ex, a man she had known since she was sixteen years old, her first love. Only as the years went by and she got older, she learned things about him, and about his family. She tried to end things but he wouldn’t take no for an answer. And his family made it clear that she was now a liability, that she knew too much. She tries not to make any connections with anyone in her new town. She doesn’t want to draw any attention to herself. But she can’t help but feel drawn to this man.
“Every moment I spend with her, I want her. More than I’ve ever wanted anything.”
Maya and Grady finally do speak to each other and the chemistry they both feel is crazy strong. At the same time, Maya’s location becomes known to the very man she needs to stay hidden from and Grady steps in to protect her. He knows that this woman is going to be his future, that she saved him and he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. But there is so much about him that she doesn’t know. Will she still look at him in the same way when she finds out?
“I’ve wanted you since the beginning, baby, before you even knew there was a beginning.”
There wasn’t a single thing I didn’t love about Grady. Yes, in the beginning he was all broody but that isn’t who he really was at all. I think the thing I loved the most about him was how hilarious he was. In the tensest of moments, he would come out with the cutest things to make Maya smile. While I was reading, at one point, I realized I was smiling right along with her. He took things so slow, proving to her that she could trust him, that he would take care of her. And he did in every way.
“I’ve fallen so deep, there’s no way to find my way back.”
“Baby, the path I’ve walked to get to you? I’m never going back.”
I absolutely loved everything about this book. Grady made me sigh so many times. And Maya was so strong. This book had plenty of steam, sweet moments and lots of suspense. It had everything. I absolutely will be reading more by this author. Stay tuned to see what comes next!
For more about this book and so many more, come and join me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
Grady Cain’s life led him to this place, at this time, and to this woman, the object of his obsession. He is injured, both in body and soul, and needed this time to recuperate and figure out what was next for him. At a time when he didn’t have anything to focus on, he found Maya. She just didn’t realize it. He watched her jog through the woods over the security system. He probably started falling for her then, before she even knew who he was.
Maya Augustine needed to hide and what better place than a small town in the middle of nowhere in Virginia. She is a physical therapist but isn’t licensed in Virginia so she is working both as an activities director for a nursing home and as a waitress in a winery. It’s here that she first saw him, the beautiful, brooding man who had unexplained injuries. She never had the nerve to talk to him but always watched him. She felt like she was being a creeper. But seeing him was the highlight of her day.
Maya had to run from her ex, a man she had known since she was sixteen years old, her first love. Only as the years went by and she got older, she learned things about him, and about his family. She tried to end things but he wouldn’t take no for an answer. And his family made it clear that she was now a liability, that she knew too much. She tries not to make any connections with anyone in her new town. She doesn’t want to draw any attention to herself. But she can’t help but feel drawn to this man.
“Every moment I spend with her, I want her. More than I’ve ever wanted anything.”
Maya and Grady finally do speak to each other and the chemistry they both feel is crazy strong. At the same time, Maya’s location becomes known to the very man she needs to stay hidden from and Grady steps in to protect her. He knows that this woman is going to be his future, that she saved him and he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. But there is so much about him that she doesn’t know. Will she still look at him in the same way when she finds out?
“I’ve wanted you since the beginning, baby, before you even knew there was a beginning.”
There wasn’t a single thing I didn’t love about Grady. Yes, in the beginning he was all broody but that isn’t who he really was at all. I think the thing I loved the most about him was how hilarious he was. In the tensest of moments, he would come out with the cutest things to make Maya smile. While I was reading, at one point, I realized I was smiling right along with her. He took things so slow, proving to her that she could trust him, that he would take care of her. And he did in every way.
“I’ve fallen so deep, there’s no way to find my way back.”
“Baby, the path I’ve walked to get to you? I’m never going back.”
I absolutely loved everything about this book. Grady made me sigh so many times. And Maya was so strong. This book had plenty of steam, sweet moments and lots of suspense. It had everything. I absolutely will be reading more by this author. Stay tuned to see what comes next!
For more about this book and so many more, come and join me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
April 24, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Amazon
After reading Vines I became a full blown stalker of Brynne Asher's because I needed to get my hands on Grady's story. And then this evil author kept posting teasers on her Facebook from Grady and Maya and I was ready to hunt her down in real life and demand this story. Well I am happy to report that Paths was well worth the wait and it was just a good as I was hoping it would be.
Grady was an amazing character, he had this hint of vulnerability about him that really had me swooning, and I just couldn't get enough of him. I loved reading about him finally opening up to someone and Maya was the perfect person for him. Even when she was trying to keep her distance from people in her new town, she couldn't stay away from Grady for too long and their connection was really evident.
Maya was running from her past, but her future led her right to the brooding Grady. Her character was one that intrigued me because I really wanted to find out what she was hiding from, and also because she had a really tenacious personality. I was smiling so hard when she wouldn't back down from Grady's stubborn behavior, and loved that she didn't give up on him.
Bottom line, Grady and Maya were an amazing couple to read about and I already want to start their story all over again. I seriously love Ms. Asher's stories and this one was no different from her usual captivating and sexy adventure. It can easily be read as a standalone but I still highly recommend Vines since it's such a good book.
P.S. And Harry the cow makes an appearance!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon
After reading Vines I became a full blown stalker of Brynne Asher's because I needed to get my hands on Grady's story. And then this evil author kept posting teasers on her Facebook from Grady and Maya and I was ready to hunt her down in real life and demand this story. Well I am happy to report that Paths was well worth the wait and it was just a good as I was hoping it would be.
Grady was an amazing character, he had this hint of vulnerability about him that really had me swooning, and I just couldn't get enough of him. I loved reading about him finally opening up to someone and Maya was the perfect person for him. Even when she was trying to keep her distance from people in her new town, she couldn't stay away from Grady for too long and their connection was really evident.
Maya was running from her past, but her future led her right to the brooding Grady. Her character was one that intrigued me because I really wanted to find out what she was hiding from, and also because she had a really tenacious personality. I was smiling so hard when she wouldn't back down from Grady's stubborn behavior, and loved that she didn't give up on him.
Bottom line, Grady and Maya were an amazing couple to read about and I already want to start their story all over again. I seriously love Ms. Asher's stories and this one was no different from her usual captivating and sexy adventure. It can easily be read as a standalone but I still highly recommend Vines since it's such a good book.
P.S. And Harry the cow makes an appearance!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2021
#1 Vines — 3.75 stars
why did these guys make running a background check on someone look so easy? do intelligence agencies (CIA, MI6, etc) truly and accurately have personal data of everyone on the planet? not only that, but down to a T like their habits, hobbies, and traumas too?!? that sounds rather alarming...
... but also marvelous cause it saved me from a lot of manufactured drama. i love the fact that the heroes of this series are badass enough that they can have access to personal records of people theyre in the job for or interested in AND theyre alpha enough to use it on their heroines 🤠
this is an ivasion of privacy that i should probably not be okay with. but i have a reason to be if it makes the hero more protective and determined to pursue the heroine, and it prevents the heroine from using that (whatever she wants to hide that the hero already finds out) to push the hero away.
Paths is a lot like Vines, but i kinda liked this one a little bit more. though im not sure why. ive come to notice that while the heroines of these books arent exactly pushovers, they capitulate to their men pretty easily. but i guess, who can blame them? i cant say i wouldnt be or do the same. 👉👈
why did these guys make running a background check on someone look so easy? do intelligence agencies (CIA, MI6, etc) truly and accurately have personal data of everyone on the planet? not only that, but down to a T like their habits, hobbies, and traumas too?!? that sounds rather alarming...
... but also marvelous cause it saved me from a lot of manufactured drama. i love the fact that the heroes of this series are badass enough that they can have access to personal records of people theyre in the job for or interested in AND theyre alpha enough to use it on their heroines 🤠
this is an ivasion of privacy that i should probably not be okay with. but i have a reason to be if it makes the hero more protective and determined to pursue the heroine, and it prevents the heroine from using that (whatever she wants to hide that the hero already finds out) to push the hero away.
so the tropes (i guess):
- girl runs away from her psycho ex
- girl *creeps on* boy from afar (the way waitresses take notice of their costumers)
- boy secretly watches (over) girl from security cameras
- boy injures himself and girl has to take care of him cause shes a physical therapist
- girl panics and kisses the first guy she sees which happens to be boy
- fake dating that becomes actual relationship cause boy is an alpha
- spontaneous proposal
Paths is a lot like Vines, but i kinda liked this one a little bit more. though im not sure why. ive come to notice that while the heroines of these books arent exactly pushovers, they capitulate to their men pretty easily. but i guess, who can blame them? i cant say i wouldnt be or do the same. 👉👈
October 26, 2019
Lucky they were running on the same path.
My Mum always told me to make the best of a situation. I scoffed, crossed my arms and glared at her every bloody time (as children are wont to do). Who wants to make the best of a situation when that situation SUCKS. As I’ve matured and my life has been filled with ups and downs, I’m actually starting to agree with her. No, I’m not going to preach it at my kids (because they’ll react the same as I did) because I hope to set an example they can follow. Now all this rambling was actually to make a point. My point is that I start every book thinking this is my next bestest of the best read. Well, I can happily say my positive attitude paid off and I have a new addition to the list.
It's like Brynne Asher made a list and checked it twice, against How to write a romance that ticks all Sassy’s boxes list. First off, I’d like to point out that this is my list of good things in perfect romance stories, not, perfect romance in real life. I say this because I have a wee bit more tolerance for alpha, bossy, stubborn and demanding heroes in the books I read than if say, my hubby, tried it out on me. My expectations are a lot higher (than real life) when it comes to the way my heroes look. Unrealistic of course, considering I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve seen an iliac furrow (you know the v muscle, Adonis belt thingamajiggy) in real life.
So, Grady Cain rocked my world. This guy…well, this guy is kind of my holy grail of book boyfriends. Good looking, great body, smart, bossy, determined and the big one…knows what he wants and goes for it. Geez Grady, you certainly don’t make things easy for the single ladies of the world. If they’re waiting for their own Grady…they may be waiting for a wee while. What made Grady even more irresistible to me is that he wasn’t perfect. He’s lived a hard life and made some dodgy decisions. Grady’s a little broken but the good thing is that he’s aware of it.
Now, Maya, well she’s not perfect, but no heroine is, unfortunately. See, I’m a little harsher on the heroines of my romance reads. Well, for starters, they’re not me, so there is no way they can be perfect (tongue firmly lodged in my cheek). Then, we have to make the heroine a little silly, and slightly deranged/illogical/immature, just so we can make our hero look even better. See, he has to come in and save the day, and if the chick can handle all her own problems…what the heck is left for our macho man, bossy hero to do?
So we have -
Hero – awesome
Heroine – good enough
Storyline – riveting
Additional characters – interesting
Baddies – sneer worthy
Suspense – it’s there
Sexy times – smoking
So I have - my perfect romance read.
Paths is why I am a devoted romance reader. I’m looking for this type of book in all of my reads. Grady is my perfect type of hero. His looks, personality and attitude could be picked up from this story and applied to every type of genre I read under the romance genre. Hey Brynne, if you ever thought about writing a paranormal or historical…I’ll read it. Actually...hey Brynne, can you please write a paranormal and a historical, pretty please with sugar on the top.
Love The Killers series and I can’t wait for more.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
My Mum always told me to make the best of a situation. I scoffed, crossed my arms and glared at her every bloody time (as children are wont to do). Who wants to make the best of a situation when that situation SUCKS. As I’ve matured and my life has been filled with ups and downs, I’m actually starting to agree with her. No, I’m not going to preach it at my kids (because they’ll react the same as I did) because I hope to set an example they can follow. Now all this rambling was actually to make a point. My point is that I start every book thinking this is my next bestest of the best read. Well, I can happily say my positive attitude paid off and I have a new addition to the list.
It's like Brynne Asher made a list and checked it twice, against How to write a romance that ticks all Sassy’s boxes list. First off, I’d like to point out that this is my list of good things in perfect romance stories, not, perfect romance in real life. I say this because I have a wee bit more tolerance for alpha, bossy, stubborn and demanding heroes in the books I read than if say, my hubby, tried it out on me. My expectations are a lot higher (than real life) when it comes to the way my heroes look. Unrealistic of course, considering I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve seen an iliac furrow (you know the v muscle, Adonis belt thingamajiggy) in real life.
So, Grady Cain rocked my world. This guy…well, this guy is kind of my holy grail of book boyfriends. Good looking, great body, smart, bossy, determined and the big one…knows what he wants and goes for it. Geez Grady, you certainly don’t make things easy for the single ladies of the world. If they’re waiting for their own Grady…they may be waiting for a wee while. What made Grady even more irresistible to me is that he wasn’t perfect. He’s lived a hard life and made some dodgy decisions. Grady’s a little broken but the good thing is that he’s aware of it.
Now, Maya, well she’s not perfect, but no heroine is, unfortunately. See, I’m a little harsher on the heroines of my romance reads. Well, for starters, they’re not me, so there is no way they can be perfect (tongue firmly lodged in my cheek). Then, we have to make the heroine a little silly, and slightly deranged/illogical/immature, just so we can make our hero look even better. See, he has to come in and save the day, and if the chick can handle all her own problems…what the heck is left for our macho man, bossy hero to do?
So we have -
Hero – awesome
Heroine – good enough
Storyline – riveting
Additional characters – interesting
Baddies – sneer worthy
Suspense – it’s there
Sexy times – smoking
So I have - my perfect romance read.
Paths is why I am a devoted romance reader. I’m looking for this type of book in all of my reads. Grady is my perfect type of hero. His looks, personality and attitude could be picked up from this story and applied to every type of genre I read under the romance genre. Hey Brynne, if you ever thought about writing a paranormal or historical…I’ll read it. Actually...hey Brynne, can you please write a paranormal and a historical, pretty please with sugar on the top.
Love The Killers series and I can’t wait for more.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
September 2, 2022
Stalking each other!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 😢🙃🙂☺️😘
The heroine: Maya - she grew up in an extremely wealthy home with parents that didn’t really care. She has a college aged brother who has epilepsy. When she could no longer take the pressure from her mother and ex-fiancé to get back together with him, she ran. She is a physical therapist who can’t work as one because she is licensed in another state and doesn’t want anyone to find her. So she works part time at an old folks home and part time at a winery.
The Hero: Grady - his father abused him as a child and it was up to him to protect his four little sisters. He later joined the military and after that became a paid assassin for the government. When he was on a dangerous assignment and got caught and tortured, he decided to retire and work for his friend’s security firm in training their recruits. The firm deals with counter terrorism.
The Story: Maya meets Grady at the vineyard she works at, he comes in twice a day to order takeout and she usually goes in the back and creeps on him through the glass without speaking to him until one day when she is the only server and has to talk to him. He is recovering from his time in captivity and is quite a grump. Little does she know he has been watching her for days as well.
I liked this story of two lost souls finding each other in a small town. Each of them having a secret and dangerous background. Grady turns out to be a great guy and is very protective of Maya, who needs someone like him, especially when her ex-fiancé finds her.
The book was told in dual points of view via dual narration, where the male narrator does all of the voices within chapters told in Grady’s point of view and the female does the same for Maya’s chapters.
The narration was done by Kit Swann and Jason Clarke who both did a great job. Jason is one of my favorite narrators and has a deep and relatable voice.
I loved the parts where Maya stands up for herself. She is a strong female character despite needing Grady’s protection.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 😢🙃🙂☺️😘
The heroine: Maya - she grew up in an extremely wealthy home with parents that didn’t really care. She has a college aged brother who has epilepsy. When she could no longer take the pressure from her mother and ex-fiancé to get back together with him, she ran. She is a physical therapist who can’t work as one because she is licensed in another state and doesn’t want anyone to find her. So she works part time at an old folks home and part time at a winery.
The Hero: Grady - his father abused him as a child and it was up to him to protect his four little sisters. He later joined the military and after that became a paid assassin for the government. When he was on a dangerous assignment and got caught and tortured, he decided to retire and work for his friend’s security firm in training their recruits. The firm deals with counter terrorism.
The Story: Maya meets Grady at the vineyard she works at, he comes in twice a day to order takeout and she usually goes in the back and creeps on him through the glass without speaking to him until one day when she is the only server and has to talk to him. He is recovering from his time in captivity and is quite a grump. Little does she know he has been watching her for days as well.
I liked this story of two lost souls finding each other in a small town. Each of them having a secret and dangerous background. Grady turns out to be a great guy and is very protective of Maya, who needs someone like him, especially when her ex-fiancé finds her.
The book was told in dual points of view via dual narration, where the male narrator does all of the voices within chapters told in Grady’s point of view and the female does the same for Maya’s chapters.
The narration was done by Kit Swann and Jason Clarke who both did a great job. Jason is one of my favorite narrators and has a deep and relatable voice.
I loved the parts where Maya stands up for herself. She is a strong female character despite needing Grady’s protection.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
May 19, 2023
This one was so good! Vines book one in the series was great and I loved it, but this one was even better and I just devoured it. Everything about Paths drew me in.
September 20, 2021
Well, well, well... If it isn't me following-through on a series and planning to read the next book, actually NEXT 😱
I think I liked this one even more than the first one. We still had forehead kisses, a possessive alpha Hero, not a doormat heroine, and some action. Although with the action I can see a pattern in both books, and shocking, it doesn't involve the H killing everything that moves (a girl can hope though).
For my pals here, no miscommunication, very straightforward Hero calling what he feels. I mean, it can get a bit boring at some points but hell, it was refreshing he verbalized how he felt. He was what I want in a IRL boyfriend, but we all know how I like my book Hs, and usually it's not this, but I'll take it for a little while 😏
It was an entertaining read, quick and fast paced. Again a bit instalove but if you don't mind that, it was fun.
I think I liked this one even more than the first one. We still had forehead kisses, a possessive alpha Hero, not a doormat heroine, and some action. Although with the action I can see a pattern in both books, and shocking, it doesn't involve the H killing everything that moves (a girl can hope though).
For my pals here, no miscommunication, very straightforward Hero calling what he feels. I mean, it can get a bit boring at some points but hell, it was refreshing he verbalized how he felt. He was what I want in a IRL boyfriend, but we all know how I like my book Hs, and usually it's not this, but I'll take it for a little while 😏
It was an entertaining read, quick and fast paced. Again a bit instalove but if you don't mind that, it was fun.
January 6, 2022
3 💘💘🤔⭐️s
It was good, nothing more nothing less.
Instant attraction, some cliches, suspense and action were not adequate. The pattern of this part was quite similar to the previous one...
There were a few details that troubled me. The heroine was on the run from her ex boyfriend and she was still making use of her full name. Usually, the first thing someone does when he/she is running away is to change his/her name. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, the hero who was a great assassin and had a body to die for, he only ate junk food and nothing nutritious. 🤷🏻♀️
Anyway, sometime in the near future I will give a chance to the next parts of this series.
It was good, nothing more nothing less.
Instant attraction, some cliches, suspense and action were not adequate. The pattern of this part was quite similar to the previous one...
There were a few details that troubled me. The heroine was on the run from her ex boyfriend and she was still making use of her full name. Usually, the first thing someone does when he/she is running away is to change his/her name. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, the hero who was a great assassin and had a body to die for, he only ate junk food and nothing nutritious. 🤷🏻♀️
Anyway, sometime in the near future I will give a chance to the next parts of this series.
July 6, 2022
It's been a minute since I read the first book in this series, but once I started this one, it all came back to me. Mostly because it's a very similar plot. Which isn't a bad thing, just kinda predictable.
Grady won me over in this one, he's a big sensitive teddybear. Asher really knows how to write OTT alpha, possessive, and loving heroes.
As fun as this story was, there were a few things that bothered me. The constant "lip biting" rivaled 50 Shades. Grady even notices it, but it turns him on.
Overall this story was good, a bit cutesy and KA-lite. It was the perfect weekend read!
Thank to Kristie, my fearless buddy reader who jumped right in to read this with me without even reading the first one! Please go read her review because she does such a beautiful job of summing up the overall story.
Grady won me over in this one, he's a big sensitive teddybear. Asher really knows how to write OTT alpha, possessive, and loving heroes.
As fun as this story was, there were a few things that bothered me. The constant "lip biting" rivaled 50 Shades. Grady even notices it, but it turns him on.
She bites her lip again, damn it, and that makes me lose my smile instantly, wanting nothing more than those lips on mine.The other thing that I didn’t understand was why she went into hiding, yet didn’t change her name!? Isn’t that 101 how-to-run-from-bad-guys?
Overall this story was good, a bit cutesy and KA-lite. It was the perfect weekend read!
Thank to Kristie, my fearless buddy reader who jumped right in to read this with me without even reading the first one! Please go read her review because she does such a beautiful job of summing up the overall story.
Read
April 23, 2017Paths is live early and available to read for free on Kindle Unlimited.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072HDB96V
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072HDB96V
April 26, 2017
It's LIVE early!!! WooHoo https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072HDB96V
After reading Vines I couldn't wait to get my hands on Grady's story. It was everything I'd hoped it would be and more. I loved it. Now it's time to impatiently wait for Asa's story.
After reading Vines I couldn't wait to get my hands on Grady's story. It was everything I'd hoped it would be and more. I loved it. Now it's time to impatiently wait for Asa's story.
October 8, 2018
I absolutely love the story of Grady and Maya.
Grady is that perfect grumbling alpha hero (who just happens to be a retired assassin) that you just can’t wait to see fall in love. Maya is the damsel in distress but don’t be fooled into thinking she’s incapable of taking care of herself. She may not be tough as nails, but she’s no wilting flower either. Together they lit up the pages of my kindle with so much humor, steam and emotion I could feel the book hangover before I ever reached the end. I mean, how do you possibly find something satisfactory to read after this?
The characters from Vines were back, along with a snuggling cow, as well as new characters of the senior citizen variety that I absolutely loved! There was just enough tension created by the bad guy to keep this story moving without overwhelming it and I was satisfied by the ending.
Now I could get into what this story is all about, but really, you’ve just gotta read it! The blurb will tell you enough. If you’ve read anything else by this author then you know she’s one you can trust. If not, what the heck have you been waiting for?
P.S. I suddenly have a craving for Molten Chocolate Cake…hmmm
Dual POV - with others sprinkled throughout
Safe from cheating
Grady is that perfect grumbling alpha hero (who just happens to be a retired assassin) that you just can’t wait to see fall in love. Maya is the damsel in distress but don’t be fooled into thinking she’s incapable of taking care of herself. She may not be tough as nails, but she’s no wilting flower either. Together they lit up the pages of my kindle with so much humor, steam and emotion I could feel the book hangover before I ever reached the end. I mean, how do you possibly find something satisfactory to read after this?
The characters from Vines were back, along with a snuggling cow, as well as new characters of the senior citizen variety that I absolutely loved! There was just enough tension created by the bad guy to keep this story moving without overwhelming it and I was satisfied by the ending.
Now I could get into what this story is all about, but really, you’ve just gotta read it! The blurb will tell you enough. If you’ve read anything else by this author then you know she’s one you can trust. If not, what the heck have you been waiting for?
P.S. I suddenly have a craving for Molten Chocolate Cake…hmmm
Dual POV - with others sprinkled throughout
Safe from cheating
December 5, 2017
A sweet read with a whole lot of insta going on.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
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April 5, 2017I'm a very lucky girl to have been asked to beta read Paths. Since I beta read it I'm not going to rate it but you guys are going to love it! Grady is definitely worth the wait. Yum.
April 16, 2022
Closer to 4 stars, but I’m tempted to give it an extra star - so I am.
So idk if anyone else has had this experience… but I swear I once read a “romance” book that featured the heroine ending up with the villain of this story (not literally the same guy, but a similar character, he was the hero of that other book). In this book, the heroine was engaged to a mafia boss’s son. They met young, he was her one and only, she thought she was in love. He was obsessed with her, became increasingly controlling as their relationship progressed, and she left him when she caught him cheating. In this book, the heroine runs away and tries her best to get away from her ex. In the other book, the heroine ended up back with the cheating asshole. I know I read this other book a long time ago (it was a mafia romance) but I wish I could remember the name. I’ve been trying hard to figure out what that other book was called. I still can’t remember, but I’m unfortunately thinking that that type of thing isn’t super uncommon in the mafia “romance” sub genre.
Anyways, this book was great because she didn’t end up with the super controlling, asshole, cheating POS. She ended up with a great guy, who just happened to kill people for a living for the past 10 years (lol). I felt like their relationship progressed too quickly, which seemed extremely unrealistic to me, thus the 4 stars instead of 5. I had minor complaints otherwise.
I will add… I didn’t understand why the hero and heroine were both (at different times) egging on the heroine’s ex by pushing their relationship in his face. That just made no sense to me - why try to anger a psycho?
This, like the last book, had a cute epilogue set a few years in the future.
Safe; no virgins but heroine was only with her ex fiancé. Hero’s past is a big ??? OM drama from her ex, no OW drama, no cheating and no scenes with OM/OW.
So idk if anyone else has had this experience… but I swear I once read a “romance” book that featured the heroine ending up with the villain of this story (not literally the same guy, but a similar character, he was the hero of that other book). In this book, the heroine was engaged to a mafia boss’s son. They met young, he was her one and only, she thought she was in love. He was obsessed with her, became increasingly controlling as their relationship progressed, and she left him when she caught him cheating. In this book, the heroine runs away and tries her best to get away from her ex. In the other book, the heroine ended up back with the cheating asshole. I know I read this other book a long time ago (it was a mafia romance) but I wish I could remember the name. I’ve been trying hard to figure out what that other book was called. I still can’t remember, but I’m unfortunately thinking that that type of thing isn’t super uncommon in the mafia “romance” sub genre.
Anyways, this book was great because she didn’t end up with the super controlling, asshole, cheating POS. She ended up with a great guy, who just happened to kill people for a living for the past 10 years (lol). I felt like their relationship progressed too quickly, which seemed extremely unrealistic to me, thus the 4 stars instead of 5. I had minor complaints otherwise.
I will add… I didn’t understand why the hero and heroine were both (at different times) egging on the heroine’s ex by pushing their relationship in his face. That just made no sense to me - why try to anger a psycho?
This, like the last book, had a cute epilogue set a few years in the future.
Safe; no virgins but heroine was only with her ex fiancé. Hero’s past is a big ??? OM drama from her ex, no OW drama, no cheating and no scenes with OM/OW.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2017
Ladies get ready to meet Grady Cain, this man will make you swoon.
Brynne really knows how to write a good alpha man.
Grady has had all the marks of your usual Alpha guy, but what made him different and made me like his character was that he wasn't overbearing.
Yes, he was protective of Maya but he didn't act like a caveman plus he was sweet and even had a fun side!
The story will suck you in from the beginning, couldn't get enough of Maya & Grady.
If you are in the mood for a great romance with no unnecessary drama, lies and with great characters, give Paths a try
Brynne really knows how to write a good alpha man.
Grady has had all the marks of your usual Alpha guy, but what made him different and made me like his character was that he wasn't overbearing.
Yes, he was protective of Maya but he didn't act like a caveman plus he was sweet and even had a fun side!
The story will suck you in from the beginning, couldn't get enough of Maya & Grady.
If you are in the mood for a great romance with no unnecessary drama, lies and with great characters, give Paths a try
May 4, 2021
4/06/2021
Now Available in Audio! 🗣🎧
Audible link: https://www.audible.com/pd/Paths-Audi...
4 Alpha Protective Stars!!
Paths: A Killers Novel, Book 2 picks up where Vines: A Killers Novel ends, and we were introduced Grady Cain, and briefly to Maya Augustine. Grady and Maya totally captured my heart, especially Grady!! Maya and Grady meet at the vineyard where she works at part time for Addy (Vines) . We know right away, Maya is running from something, she's hiding from her past, and the very real threats she faces if found. Maya is also an activity director at a retirement home, she loves her job there but she longs to go back to her career as a Physical therapist, however she’s fearful of filing the paperwork needed to get her Virginia PT license because she may be found.
“Right after I take his order, I resume spying on him from the backroom. And I’ve spied enough that, even to myself, I’m reaching creeper status. Ugh. Creepers are weird and I’m becoming one.”
Grady Cain is recovering from injuries from his last job, which obviously did not go well….at all. When Addy and Crew learn that Maya (who has a crush on Grady) is a physical therapist she is talked into assisting Grady with his recovery. Brooding and remote Grady is very aware of Maya and has been watching her for quite a while, he is just as attracted to her as she is to him. It takes some time and Maya’s past catching up to her that makes Grady finally step up and stake his claim!!
“I should be really fucking worried about my mental capacity that I’m watching her and don’t care. But I adjust the cameras and do what I do every day. I watch so I don’t think about anything else. Nothing but her.”
I love how protective Grady is of Maya, he comes across as a total hardass, but, he’s so sweet to the women who are important to him specifically Maya and the sisters he adores. Grady and Maya must overcome obstacles, but, the bumpy road they have to travel will lead to their happily ever after.
All-in-all another winner for Brynne Asher and I can’t wait for more of “ The Killers ”!!
June 25, 2017
SPOILER FREE
„From this moment on, our paths that brought us here end-they’re done. We’re starting a new one-one we’ll navigate together.”
Ah, need I say more? Yes, you say. Well here goes…
Maya Augustine is on the run and she could have come across as the damsel in distress but she didn’t. She took the time to regroup when necessary. She knew when to stand her ground and when to take a step back and let Grady take over. As, a heroine she is strong, sassy and a perfect match for Grady.
Addy gave her a chance with an act of kindness with the bungalow and a job. Working two jobs, seven days a week. At Whitetail and at the Rolling Hills Ranch. Done everything she can to not leave a trail but Lady Luck is not on her side. Her past catches up.
All of them are getting under Maya’s skin. Especially the stoic, reserved Grady Cain.
All of this, his beauty mixed with his injuries, only fuels my fascination. There’s obviously something wrong with me. I as well am a Grady fan.
I got to say I never thought that Cam Montgomery from Athica Lane could be beat but move over Cam because Grady Cain is in the picture. Best book boyfriend 2017? Looks like that is gonna happen. Yeah, the year is still young but I have high hopes.
Grady Cain what a name right?
Grady Cain is the epitome of an alpha male. Broody, overprotective with slight stalker-ish tendencies. With an absolute soft, sweet and gooey side. He is carrot cake. And I personally love carrot cake.
I want a Grady Cain of my own. FACT!
I’m always extremely nervous when it comes to reading authors I really like and I feel a connection with and here it was no different. I loved everything from the plot to the characters to the smutty, filthy and sweet as well as adorable times. The twists and the turns have you on the edge your seat. Such a fab read and a reread as well as a recommend for sure.
Review can also be dound @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
February 3, 2018
Must read series!
Once again, Brynne Asher has delivered exactly the type of story I was looking for. The writing was fantastic and the story kept me turning the page.
HERO~ Grady was amazing. I liked him in book 1 and was rooting for his HEA. He was strong and protective but his past demons were trying to bring him down. But, like most situations, the love and support of a good woman (or man) can get you through just about anything.
HEROINE~ Maya was a complex heroine and I adored her. I'm not crazy about alpha females but I like a strong one. It is a fine balance to make a great heroine and she fit the bill. She was on the run because she had no options. Grady having her back gave her the support that she never had before and she was able to get her life back.
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins and their sexual past wasn't dwelled on.
OM DRAMA ~ Maya's crazy ex fiance was after her- which was the drama. She was not in love with him and wanted nothing to do with him.
OW DRAMA~ zero
STEAM While the sex scenes weren't plentiful, the steam level was great on the parts were had. Definitely would have loved more.
VIOLENCE violence, but none of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS great secondary characters especially the gang at her nursing home job. Also, we didn't have to see future heroes with other women. We also touched base with the gang from book 1. Very pleased with this cast of characters
SAFETY Safe - neither are with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 3 years out.
Once again, Brynne Asher has delivered exactly the type of story I was looking for. The writing was fantastic and the story kept me turning the page.
HERO~ Grady was amazing. I liked him in book 1 and was rooting for his HEA. He was strong and protective but his past demons were trying to bring him down. But, like most situations, the love and support of a good woman (or man) can get you through just about anything.
HEROINE~ Maya was a complex heroine and I adored her. I'm not crazy about alpha females but I like a strong one. It is a fine balance to make a great heroine and she fit the bill. She was on the run because she had no options. Grady having her back gave her the support that she never had before and she was able to get her life back.
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins and their sexual past wasn't dwelled on.
OM DRAMA ~ Maya's crazy ex fiance was after her- which was the drama. She was not in love with him and wanted nothing to do with him.
OW DRAMA~ zero
STEAM While the sex scenes weren't plentiful, the steam level was great on the parts were had. Definitely would have loved more.
VIOLENCE violence, but none of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS great secondary characters especially the gang at her nursing home job. Also, we didn't have to see future heroes with other women. We also touched base with the gang from book 1. Very pleased with this cast of characters
SAFETY Safe - neither are with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 3 years out.
April 24, 2022
So even though the set up is the same as the first book, this book was much better and more exciting. Not sure why we had to have two books in a row about a woman on the run hooking up with her mercenary neighbour, I mean have some originality and don’t do this back to back in a series. Anyway Grady was awesome grumpy turned sweet alpha hero and Maya is ok as a heroine, not great but ok. The family drama and mobster ex-fiancé action were exciting and compelling and had a satisfying ending. This story did feel long though. I think it could have been wrapped up a few chapters before it was, yet it kept going. And I’d love to have a more exciting heroine in one of these books as both Maya and Addy were nothing special compared to their heroes. But overall a good read with no break up or miscommunications or other stupid plot devices, the action drove this plot and it was nice.
April 21, 2021
-Insta-attraction
-possessive/protective Hero
-sweet heroine that was running away from a dangerous ex
-suspenseful plot that wasn't too angsty
-no other woman drama
-returning side characters from book one
-new side characters. Grady's sister who I would love to see books for and the old people at the nursing home Maya works at. The old people were funny.
-Harry the Cow made an appearance
-great epilogue
-Great narration via audiobook version
-possessive/protective Hero
-sweet heroine that was running away from a dangerous ex
-suspenseful plot that wasn't too angsty
-no other woman drama
-returning side characters from book one
-new side characters. Grady's sister who I would love to see books for and the old people at the nursing home Maya works at. The old people were funny.
-Harry the Cow made an appearance
-great epilogue
-Great narration via audiobook version
April 3, 2022
4.5⭐️
“I’ve fallen so deep, there’s no way to find my way back.”
“Who knew when I barely survived the depths of hell, my path would lead to you.”
- Who is the Hero? Grady Cain, Age: 32, Occupation: former contract assassin
~ Grady is struggling with some life events and is not on a good place mentally or physically.
~ “Finding focus after being beaten to a pulp and almost having my hand chopped off has been challenging. Retreating has been the easiest option.”
When he was seventeen, Grady killed his father. He’s been living with the guilt of what was done to his sister for years.
- Who is the Heroine? Maya Augustine, Age: 28, Occupation: waitress and physical therapist
~ Maya grew up with wealth., but she fled from her home when she found out a few things about her long term boyfriend. She’s waitressing and working with some cantankerous senior citizens at an assisted living facility.
~ “Who knew when I ran away from my previous life I would be on a path leading straight to Grady Cain.”
Plot overview:
~ Grady got hurt on his last mission. He’s stubborn and refuses to go to the doctor. When Addy and Crew find out Maya is a physical therapist, they insist these two work together to get Grady back on track.
~ Addy: “This is perfect. You’re a physical therapist and Grady doesn’t want to go to the doctor. If you refuse to go to the doctor, you can at least work with Maya.”
~ Crew: “If you want to work for me, you need to let her help you. Maya’s right. You can’t lose motion, and you know it.”
There is obvious interest and attraction brewing between Maya and Grady and when Maya’s past comes calling, Grady is there to make sure Maya is protected.
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * I was a little worried about how much I would like Grady. He was introduced in book one and he came off as a bit selfish (his decision forced Crew to go on a mission). Thankfully, early on the author was able to show how lost he was and I was able to empathize and forgive him.
* * Sometimes Grady’s comments came with a sarcastic, snarky attitude and I really enjoyed it. Usually you get a snarky female, but I really liked this side of Grady
* * I loved Grady’s four sisters.
~ “Warning—they’ll attack you with the energy of a pack of puppies who just downed a double espresso. And since it’s Christmas, they could be on a sugar high. Just go with the flow, I promise you’ll make it out alive.”
* * flirting with the old ladies, reluctantly eating vegetables, his attempt to cut down a Christmas tree in the woods, protecting Maya, going with her to her parents, being present in her life events (Christmas party) so many things about Grady were swoony
**Overview:**
- Setting: Virginia
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful as there are secondary characters from Book One
- POV: besides H & h, there were also POV’s from some of the secondary characters.
- Tropes: military cove with some danger
- Hero likeable? yes. I really liked Grady
- heroine likeable? yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 21%
- First time they sleep together: 66%
- Safe sex? No. they were overcome with passion and forgot the condoms. After, they had the “clean” discussion.
- First time they say I Love You 81%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- Chemistry? they had good chemistry
- OW/OM drama? a bit. Maya’s ex wants her back. Maya never has any interest in going back to him
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? I smiled quite a bit at Grady’s comments
- Did I swoon🥰? Yes ❣️
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Three years later
- Recommend? Yes
Quotes:
“I haven’t tingled for a really long time. Hell, I haven’t even wanted to tingle, and any self-induced tingling business never crossed my mind.”
“You make losing bets worth it, Grady Cain.”
“This was only my second first date ever, but it was perfect. Thank you.”
“You didn’t even know it, but you saved me from some fucked-up demons.”
“I’ve fallen so deep, there’s no way to find my way back.”
“Who knew when I barely survived the depths of hell, my path would lead to you.”
- Who is the Hero? Grady Cain, Age: 32, Occupation: former contract assassin
~ Grady is struggling with some life events and is not on a good place mentally or physically.
~ “Finding focus after being beaten to a pulp and almost having my hand chopped off has been challenging. Retreating has been the easiest option.”
When he was seventeen, Grady killed his father. He’s been living with the guilt of what was done to his sister for years.
- Who is the Heroine? Maya Augustine, Age: 28, Occupation: waitress and physical therapist
~ Maya grew up with wealth., but she fled from her home when she found out a few things about her long term boyfriend. She’s waitressing and working with some cantankerous senior citizens at an assisted living facility.
~ “Who knew when I ran away from my previous life I would be on a path leading straight to Grady Cain.”
Plot overview:
~ Grady got hurt on his last mission. He’s stubborn and refuses to go to the doctor. When Addy and Crew find out Maya is a physical therapist, they insist these two work together to get Grady back on track.
~ Addy: “This is perfect. You’re a physical therapist and Grady doesn’t want to go to the doctor. If you refuse to go to the doctor, you can at least work with Maya.”
~ Crew: “If you want to work for me, you need to let her help you. Maya’s right. You can’t lose motion, and you know it.”
There is obvious interest and attraction brewing between Maya and Grady and when Maya’s past comes calling, Grady is there to make sure Maya is protected.
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * I was a little worried about how much I would like Grady. He was introduced in book one and he came off as a bit selfish (his decision forced Crew to go on a mission). Thankfully, early on the author was able to show how lost he was and I was able to empathize and forgive him.
* * Sometimes Grady’s comments came with a sarcastic, snarky attitude and I really enjoyed it. Usually you get a snarky female, but I really liked this side of Grady
* * I loved Grady’s four sisters.
~ “Warning—they’ll attack you with the energy of a pack of puppies who just downed a double espresso. And since it’s Christmas, they could be on a sugar high. Just go with the flow, I promise you’ll make it out alive.”
* * flirting with the old ladies, reluctantly eating vegetables, his attempt to cut down a Christmas tree in the woods, protecting Maya, going with her to her parents, being present in her life events (Christmas party) so many things about Grady were swoony
**Overview:**
- Setting: Virginia
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I think it would be helpful as there are secondary characters from Book One
- POV: besides H & h, there were also POV’s from some of the secondary characters.
- Tropes: military cove with some danger
- Hero likeable? yes. I really liked Grady
- heroine likeable? yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 21%
- First time they sleep together: 66%
- Safe sex? No. they were overcome with passion and forgot the condoms. After, they had the “clean” discussion.
- First time they say I Love You 81%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- Chemistry? they had good chemistry
- OW/OM drama? a bit. Maya’s ex wants her back. Maya never has any interest in going back to him
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? I smiled quite a bit at Grady’s comments
- Did I swoon🥰? Yes ❣️
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Three years later
- Recommend? Yes
Quotes:
“I haven’t tingled for a really long time. Hell, I haven’t even wanted to tingle, and any self-induced tingling business never crossed my mind.”
“You make losing bets worth it, Grady Cain.”
“This was only my second first date ever, but it was perfect. Thank you.”
“You didn’t even know it, but you saved me from some fucked-up demons.”
April 26, 2021
Is there anything on this list you don't want?
1. Retired government assassin who ridiculously over-protective, hot AF fuck and rich since assassin's get paid a shit load!
2. A cow named Harry constantly hanging around your cute little cottage on a fucking vineyard where you get to drink for free.
3. Hilarious friends.
4. Cute old men who hit on you all the time and help your ego.
Seriously, I will happily take all those things.
I love this series so much! If you haven't tried it you should. Even if it is just to read about Harry the cow.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
1. Retired government assassin who ridiculously over-protective, hot AF fuck and rich since assassin's get paid a shit load!
2. A cow named Harry constantly hanging around your cute little cottage on a fucking vineyard where you get to drink for free.
3. Hilarious friends.
4. Cute old men who hit on you all the time and help your ego.
Seriously, I will happily take all those things.
I love this series so much! If you haven't tried it you should. Even if it is just to read about Harry the cow.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
May 17, 2017
Loved this! I won't lie when I first started I thought the hero was gonna be mean and push away a lot but that is definitely not the case. Grady is an absolute sweetheart with the h and it was sweet! Loved the way he loved her. The h Maya was great as well. Very enjoyable read ❤️❤️
Safety Note: completely safe
Safety Note: completely safe
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2018
I’ve read this series all out of order. It didn’t matter though as they can definitely be read as standalones even though the same characters are in each book. I really loved Grady although he was no Asa. I don’t think many heroes can top Asa though. Maya was also a good h. I was thinking there was going to be more pushing away in this one. I was glad to be wrong about that.
May 1, 2017
I loved the hero. The heroine was meh to me.
All I can say bring on Asa's book.
April 25, 2022
3.5 stars.
The pace of this one was Super Sloooooow.
Liked book #1 much better.
The pace of this one was Super Sloooooow.
Liked book #1 much better.
November 17, 2022
I thought Paths was great and had a better flow and pacing than Vines. I didn't hit any draggy spots and I found both main characters very likable. Grady (H) is aloof and dealing with demons following the events of book 1 and his attempt to return to being an assassin (the prologue covers what went wrong with that mission), but he's a wounded soul that has a soft underbelly. He's both pushy and playful which was a combo I ate up. Maya (h) is in semi-hiding (I say semi because I felt like she didn't put in enough effort but she tried) from her ex's mob-connected family. I thought she was a fun and caring character with a lot of personality shining through once she was free of her restrictive prior life. She tries, and fails, not to make connections while she works two jobs. I loved that both Grady and Maya were creeping on each other unbeknownst to the other one. They move fast from attraction to interest to romance with Grady keeping Maya safe. Written in first person, multi-POV (with some POVs from side characters/villains). No ow drama, some om drama because the ex wants the h back badly. H wasn't a virgin but no history given and h had only ever been with the ex.
Maya and Grady filled in the cracks for each other. I loved them together and I really appreciated that once Grady knew her background with the ex, he decided to take it slow with her regarding physical intimacy, even if he wasn't willing to compromise on keeping her physically safe. They were also both slow to open up and reveal some parts of themselves to each other and that fit what each of them had gone through and the fears they had. Both Maya and Grady had deep familial wounds, although only Grady had a traumatic background there. They do open up and they also get very steamy. Yes, their whole relationship moves swiftly, but I always felt like they were in it together and communicating.
As usual for a Brynne Asher story, side characters play big roles. The vineyard family embraced Maya when she started renting and working there. The assassins crew is there for Grady so also Maya. Maya's family is a mixed bag because her mother was a horror, but her brother was wonderful and her father had some surprise depth. Grady's sisters visited and had me cracking up but also loving their relationship with him. The villains are scary with big potential to wreck this couple and there was a wildcard feel to them also because Maya's ex is unhinged.
I loved the final conflict and how the build up to it developed, as well as how it all went down. Then there's an extended epilogue 3 years later that made me melty (Ms. Asher gives great epilogue) and their HEA made me extremely happy. I'm esp excited for the next book in this series since I know it's a fan favorite.
Maya and Grady filled in the cracks for each other. I loved them together and I really appreciated that once Grady knew her background with the ex, he decided to take it slow with her regarding physical intimacy, even if he wasn't willing to compromise on keeping her physically safe. They were also both slow to open up and reveal some parts of themselves to each other and that fit what each of them had gone through and the fears they had. Both Maya and Grady had deep familial wounds, although only Grady had a traumatic background there. They do open up and they also get very steamy. Yes, their whole relationship moves swiftly, but I always felt like they were in it together and communicating.
As usual for a Brynne Asher story, side characters play big roles. The vineyard family embraced Maya when she started renting and working there. The assassins crew is there for Grady so also Maya. Maya's family is a mixed bag because her mother was a horror, but her brother was wonderful and her father had some surprise depth. Grady's sisters visited and had me cracking up but also loving their relationship with him. The villains are scary with big potential to wreck this couple and there was a wildcard feel to them also because Maya's ex is unhinged.
I loved the final conflict and how the build up to it developed, as well as how it all went down. Then there's an extended epilogue 3 years later that made me melty (Ms. Asher gives great epilogue) and their HEA made me extremely happy. I'm esp excited for the next book in this series since I know it's a fan favorite.
April 24, 2017
4 stars. This is a super sweet book! This is Grady and Maya's story. Grady works with Crew (from Vines) and lives on the farm where they train government contract killers. He is going through a difficult time, recovering mentally and physically from a mission where he was kidnapped, beaten and severely injured. He is stubborn though, and refuses to get any help in healing. His only bright spot is watching the pretty new employee at the neighboring winery on her daily run down the paths between the two properties. Maya is new to Addy's winery. She is working there, living in a bungalow on the property, as well as working a second job as an activities director at a nursing home. Maya is not looking to make friends or settle down. She is hiding a big secret, on the run from her past, and doesn't want to draw attention to herself. But gradually, Addy and the other workers at the winery draw her in and she soon finds herself volunteering to help Grady, by using her past experience as a physical therapist, to help him recover from his injuries. He resists at first but eventually gives in. Maya and Grady get to know each other as they work together and find they really like each other. But when Maya's past comes back to threaten her future, Grady steps in to fight for her. They fall in love and are able to create a new life together.
I loved Grady and Maya together. Maya was sweet and funny. Grady was so awesome. The way he loved and adored Maya was so sweet. He was a bit prickly and grumpy at first, but once he gave in to his feelings for Maya, he was all in. They were really sexy and swoony together. The book was a bit slow burn, but it didn't bother me at all. It was original and not at all predictable. I loved the winery setting and catching up with Crew, Addy and the rest of the gang there. There is so much potential for more books in the series with Grady's hilarious sisters and the rest of Crew's men. I also liked the nursing home aspect. The elderly residents were really funny!
Overall, this was just a sweet and suspenseful, sexy and funny book! I really enjoyed seeing Maya and Grady's relationship develop. I look forward to more from Brynne Asher and this series in the future!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I loved Grady and Maya together. Maya was sweet and funny. Grady was so awesome. The way he loved and adored Maya was so sweet. He was a bit prickly and grumpy at first, but once he gave in to his feelings for Maya, he was all in. They were really sexy and swoony together. The book was a bit slow burn, but it didn't bother me at all. It was original and not at all predictable. I loved the winery setting and catching up with Crew, Addy and the rest of the gang there. There is so much potential for more books in the series with Grady's hilarious sisters and the rest of Crew's men. I also liked the nursing home aspect. The elderly residents were really funny!
Overall, this was just a sweet and suspenseful, sexy and funny book! I really enjoyed seeing Maya and Grady's relationship develop. I look forward to more from Brynne Asher and this series in the future!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
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April 3, 2017As a general rule, I do not rate beta reads. All I will say is Mmm, mmm, mmm Grady.
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