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Red. The color of extremes.
Tate Conrad’s existence is annihilated. Destroyed by two men: one, her hero and the other, her worst nightmare. She has nothing to lose.
Determined to survive, vengeance feeds her. There are no limits, no boundaries, not even death, in seeking liberation.
*******
Rylan Wolfe is driven.
A stellar FBI agent close to breaking the case of a lifetime. It’s more than career-making, it’s personal. Tate’s the linchpin to it all.
They need each other to succeed.
For Tate, is he her salvation or ruin?
Warning: This book contains graphic language, explicit sexual scenes and violence.
Recommended for readers 18+
Red. The color of extremes.
Tate Conrad’s existence is annihilated. Destroyed by two men: one, her hero and the other, her worst nightmare. She has nothing to lose.
Determined to survive, vengeance feeds her. There are no limits, no boundaries, not even death, in seeking liberation.
*******
Rylan Wolfe is driven.
A stellar FBI agent close to breaking the case of a lifetime. It’s more than career-making, it’s personal. Tate’s the linchpin to it all.
They need each other to succeed.
For Tate, is he her salvation or ruin?
Warning: This book contains graphic language, explicit sexual scenes and violence.
Recommended for readers 18+
273 pages, ebook
First published February 6, 2017
42 people are currently reading
762 people want to read
About the author
S.M. West
36 books1,238 followersUSA Today bestselling and award-winning author, S.M. West, writes sexy, angsty stories about brave hearts and wild love, including, more times than not, heart-pumping twists and turns.
Apart from her infinite love of books, she’s a self-professed wine, chocolate, and travel junkie. When not writing or hanging with her family, she’s usually talking to her characters (in her head) or planning her next adventure!
She currently lives near Toronto, Ontario, with her husband and two smart and sassy daughters.
Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
Griffin - Best Thriller
Smash - Best Romance
Global eBook Awards
Griffin - Gold, Romantic Suspense
Scoring the Player - Silver, Romance
Global Book Award
Griffin - Silver, Romantic Suspense
NYC Big Book Award
Reverb - Distinguished Favorite, Romance
Finalist National Indie Excellence Awards
Griffin
Visit her at:
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2KHXIRi
website:https://www.smwestauthor.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/smwestauthor/
Instagram:hhttps://www.instagram.com/smwestwrites/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/SMWestAuthor
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/smwestwrites/
Apart from her infinite love of books, she’s a self-professed wine, chocolate, and travel junkie. When not writing or hanging with her family, she’s usually talking to her characters (in her head) or planning her next adventure!
She currently lives near Toronto, Ontario, with her husband and two smart and sassy daughters.
Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
Griffin - Best Thriller
Smash - Best Romance
Global eBook Awards
Griffin - Gold, Romantic Suspense
Scoring the Player - Silver, Romance
Global Book Award
Griffin - Silver, Romantic Suspense
NYC Big Book Award
Reverb - Distinguished Favorite, Romance
Finalist National Indie Excellence Awards
Griffin
Visit her at:
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2KHXIRi
website:https://www.smwestauthor.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/smwestauthor/
Instagram:hhttps://www.instagram.com/smwestwrites/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/SMWestAuthor
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/smwestwrites/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
February 6, 2017
LIVE!! #99cents : http://amzn.to/2icCuO7
4 Stars!!
If you are looking for a suspense/mystery novel or you simply want to try a debut author, S.M. West is the author you are looking for. 'Red' , her debut novel was simply awesome. Gripping, well written and action-packed, this story of surviving, finding love and learning to move on kept me at the edge of my seat with its enthralling plot and well-portrayed characters from beginning until the end. S.M. West’s story was engaging, fast-paced and for sure left me wanting more.
Tate Conrad’s life changed irrevocably five years ago, when everything good in her life was destroyed by two men. The last five years have been a living hell for Tate, being forced to endure so much. She’s a master at going within, shutting it all out. She’s a fighter and a survivor, no longer fearing abuse or death and all she wants now is to make her tormentors pay for everything they did to her. And she will do it...no matter what.
To make them pay, to get her revenge, Tate teams with the FBI. Everything changes for Tate when she meets Rylan Wolfe, her new handler. Rylan is intrigued by Tate, realizing that’s more to her than meets the eye. He wants to see more, to get to know the REAL Tate, to help her and protect her, but he also knows he should tell her who he really is. Tate knows she should stay away from the sexy FBI Agent since she doesn’t need a distraction, but he elicits desire and want, both of which she thought had been beaten out of her. Both of them fight the undeniable attraction between them, trying not to cross some lines, but as time passes and their connection between them grows, they can’t deny how deep their emotional connection is.
I can’t say I’m a big fan of romantic suspense, but I really enjoyed this one! Like I mentioned above, the story was gripping, action-packed with some interesting twists and turns that held me captive from start to finish. The suspense and mystery elements are fantastically blended together, making this story for me to be very engaging and addictive. One of my favorite aspects of this story was the plot, which was complex, with many layers that kept me on my toes the entire time. While the story overall, is a romantic suspense novel, you have to know it’s not entirely plot-driven. Sure, the plot is the most important aspect, but the story is also a character driven story.
The two main characters, Tate and Rylan were interesting to read about, endearing and had so much depth. I loved their portrayal, especially Tate’s. I loved our heroine. She’s my kind of gal – strong, determined, a fighter who’s willing to do anything to get what she wants. Her strength was admirable and I have to say my heart broke for her at times. She was so strong, yet so vulnerable at times. Rylan was an awesome hero. Commanding and alluring he was perfect for our heroine. I loved how sweet, caring and protective he was at times and his tenderness towards her was really heartwarming. I also loved how patient he was with her at times.
The chemistry between these two characters was off the charts hot and so palpable. They were good together and I loved them as a couple. The supporting character were pretty great portrayed as well and I’m looking forward to read their own stories in the upcoming books in the series.
Overall, a great debut novel I highly recommend it if you want to read a gripping story filled with action, suspense and steam.
Find me on:
4 Stars!!
If you are looking for a suspense/mystery novel or you simply want to try a debut author, S.M. West is the author you are looking for. 'Red' , her debut novel was simply awesome. Gripping, well written and action-packed, this story of surviving, finding love and learning to move on kept me at the edge of my seat with its enthralling plot and well-portrayed characters from beginning until the end. S.M. West’s story was engaging, fast-paced and for sure left me wanting more.
“Time is no consequence. Waiting, no burden. I will have my reckoning.”
Tate Conrad’s life changed irrevocably five years ago, when everything good in her life was destroyed by two men. The last five years have been a living hell for Tate, being forced to endure so much. She’s a master at going within, shutting it all out. She’s a fighter and a survivor, no longer fearing abuse or death and all she wants now is to make her tormentors pay for everything they did to her. And she will do it...no matter what.
“I crave their pitiful downfall. I crave vengeance. I crave freedom.”
To make them pay, to get her revenge, Tate teams with the FBI. Everything changes for Tate when she meets Rylan Wolfe, her new handler. Rylan is intrigued by Tate, realizing that’s more to her than meets the eye. He wants to see more, to get to know the REAL Tate, to help her and protect her, but he also knows he should tell her who he really is. Tate knows she should stay away from the sexy FBI Agent since she doesn’t need a distraction, but he elicits desire and want, both of which she thought had been beaten out of her. Both of them fight the undeniable attraction between them, trying not to cross some lines, but as time passes and their connection between them grows, they can’t deny how deep their emotional connection is.
“This attraction, this hold between us, is undeniable, and deeper than anything I’ve ever felt before. One part of me is spellbound and the other, terrified.”
I can’t say I’m a big fan of romantic suspense, but I really enjoyed this one! Like I mentioned above, the story was gripping, action-packed with some interesting twists and turns that held me captive from start to finish. The suspense and mystery elements are fantastically blended together, making this story for me to be very engaging and addictive. One of my favorite aspects of this story was the plot, which was complex, with many layers that kept me on my toes the entire time. While the story overall, is a romantic suspense novel, you have to know it’s not entirely plot-driven. Sure, the plot is the most important aspect, but the story is also a character driven story.
“Our meetings are like Russian Roulette. The gun is locked and loaded. The question is, who’ll pull the trigger?”
The two main characters, Tate and Rylan were interesting to read about, endearing and had so much depth. I loved their portrayal, especially Tate’s. I loved our heroine. She’s my kind of gal – strong, determined, a fighter who’s willing to do anything to get what she wants. Her strength was admirable and I have to say my heart broke for her at times. She was so strong, yet so vulnerable at times. Rylan was an awesome hero. Commanding and alluring he was perfect for our heroine. I loved how sweet, caring and protective he was at times and his tenderness towards her was really heartwarming. I also loved how patient he was with her at times.
“Our first earth-shattering kiss is the dawn of something…something consuming, forbidden and dangerous.”
The chemistry between these two characters was off the charts hot and so palpable. They were good together and I loved them as a couple. The supporting character were pretty great portrayed as well and I’m looking forward to read their own stories in the upcoming books in the series.
Overall, a great debut novel I highly recommend it if you want to read a gripping story filled with action, suspense and steam.
Find me on:
February 15, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Red (stand-alone). Abused wife is asked to help the FBI to take down the mob, a mission riddled with danger & betrayal!
“Her name’s a prayer and a promise on my tongue.”
Red (stand-alone, book 1) opens up to art dealer and gallery owner Tate Conrad Thornton, Bear married to a monster who beats, rapes, humiliates and tortures her on a daily basis. More on why to unfold with story.
When approached by the FBI to work as an informant to help infiltrate and take down her husband’s mob connections she sees that as a way out.
FBI special agent Rylan Adam Wolfe, Ry is brought in to be her point of contact. It’s a risky endeavor complicated by trust issues, danger, villains and their insane impossible attraction to each other.
Seven words to describe Rylan Adam Wolfe, Ry: protective, private, commanding, smart, detached, loyal and brave.
Seven words to describe Tate Conrad Thornton, Bear: broken, resolute, desperate, meek, proactive, depressed and afraid.
Red, told from dual POVs, is a suspenseful romance with emphasis on mystery, violence and betrayal. Off to a slow start the story soon picked and was a race against time all the way to its explosive ending.
Intrigue! Danger! Suspense!
“The dress is classic and tasteful. The deep, hypnotic red fabric is like a beacon of desire.”
***
Hero: ★★★★
Heroine: ★★★3/4
Plot: ★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | LOW FOCUS |
Romance: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | HIGH FOCUS |
ARC provided to me by author S.M. West in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2017
4 Stars!!
This is such a great start for this new upcoming author..... I maybe slightly biased but I really did enjoy her poetic writing style, it was intriguing and had lots of sexy moments mixed in. Although the plot comes first in this story to me the more I read the more emotionally involved I got. So If you love Suspense then this will surely tick all those boxes to keep you guessing throughout the book.
So what's it about?
Tate has come from an unloving, hard Mafia family and although Tate started out adoring her father that later turned out to be not the case anymore. He is hard, controlling and made her into the numb person she is now... or is she?? I'll tell you this while reading about her I really did feel for her especially at the prologue where SM West pulls you into the story from the beginning. There is something vulnerable about Tate. That said she's a strong kick ass heroine if ever I've read one then Tate really had to control her future in the best way she could.
I don't really want to get into the plot too much with you guys here but this is a Mafia styled read with a fierce protective hero (Rylan) who is under cover, who slowly fell for Tate because how can you not when your protecting the person you shouldn't like? What starts off as an edge, as lust turns into more. But truthfully the romance came second to the story for me. That doesn't mean I liked it any less cause it kept me on my toes and actually I kept turning the pages especially the further I got into it and then the more emotionally involved I became with both the hero and heroine.
I will say though the beginning took a bit of time to get into , so if you like Suspense romance and want to try this book I urge you to just keep going as it picks ups the more you read.
Overall I loved both characters and actually have lots to look forward to in future reads!! I enjoyed the mystery that was in bedded within the whole plot. It kept me on my toes, and kept me turning the pages. Its a great start in this series and I'm looking forward to more books from SM West in the future.
I beta read this for some before honest review thoughts before it's released
This is such a great start for this new upcoming author..... I maybe slightly biased but I really did enjoy her poetic writing style, it was intriguing and had lots of sexy moments mixed in. Although the plot comes first in this story to me the more I read the more emotionally involved I got. So If you love Suspense then this will surely tick all those boxes to keep you guessing throughout the book.
So what's it about?
Tate has come from an unloving, hard Mafia family and although Tate started out adoring her father that later turned out to be not the case anymore. He is hard, controlling and made her into the numb person she is now... or is she?? I'll tell you this while reading about her I really did feel for her especially at the prologue where SM West pulls you into the story from the beginning. There is something vulnerable about Tate. That said she's a strong kick ass heroine if ever I've read one then Tate really had to control her future in the best way she could.
I don't really want to get into the plot too much with you guys here but this is a Mafia styled read with a fierce protective hero (Rylan) who is under cover, who slowly fell for Tate because how can you not when your protecting the person you shouldn't like? What starts off as an edge, as lust turns into more. But truthfully the romance came second to the story for me. That doesn't mean I liked it any less cause it kept me on my toes and actually I kept turning the pages especially the further I got into it and then the more emotionally involved I became with both the hero and heroine.
I will say though the beginning took a bit of time to get into , so if you like Suspense romance and want to try this book I urge you to just keep going as it picks ups the more you read.
Overall I loved both characters and actually have lots to look forward to in future reads!! I enjoyed the mystery that was in bedded within the whole plot. It kept me on my toes, and kept me turning the pages. Its a great start in this series and I'm looking forward to more books from SM West in the future.
I beta read this for some before honest review thoughts before it's released
February 7, 2017
4.75 "you are my color" stars
Five years ago, Tate Conrad's life was destroyed and her love murdered in front of her eyes by the hands of the flagitious, ruthless and despicable scum Robert/Bobby Thornton and her father, a cruel criminal/businessman Warren Conrad. Her life is orchestrated by these two men as she's been living in utter hell
of an abusive torture in the forced marriage with the murderer.
She's been planning this for the last dreadful five years of her shadow life. She will succeed. She will be victorious in the end. She's been working as an informant for the FBI providing crucial infomation against her husband and her father. She's determined and driven by hatred and yet she's been completely emtpy of any valid emotion until that one unexpected moment when another FBI handler steps into the scene replacing her previous one that she got to know and was comfortable with. This change sets the uncomfortable sensation in Tate cause it's the last thing she expected, but the very sight of special agent Rylan Wolfe stirs disturbing notion in her, shaking her non-existence to the core.
And that is a dangerous thing, cause she can't be deterred from the plan. And Rylan Wolfe is a distraction. They both fight it, cause it can really destroy a significant operation and end lives BUT what they can't deny is so much stronger than they are. It's a powerful force beyond carnal need. It's awaken the long buried emotions and it's painful to endure it without a touch, when danger is lingering on every corner and every step they make…
And as the time is ticking away, every second is crucial and the final strike against Warren and Bobby is closing in, the tension is high, especially when Rylan Wolfe infiltrates as another informant under alias Clint Somerset , and the closeness to Tate brings more excrutiating and dangerous angst that could shatter it all. The game of trust and mistrust between Rylan and Tate is on the test, as the noose comes close to ending the things before its due time…
And in the end, will the taste of vengeance and final revenge settle Tate's soul to rest? Or will she need more substance to re-fill what she believed died five years ago? Is Rylan the one who can bring her back to herself now that all is empty again?
In that significant moment…maybe…yes…in the turmoil of danger and chaos Rylan did exactly that.
Someone once told me that „everyone can write, but not everyone can write good.“ And I have to say that I absolutely agree with that statement and I have to also state this: S.M. West hit the roof, she most definitely CAN write and she CAN write GOOD.
First of all, the writing is tipical for journalism. The sentences are short, clear and intense and to the pin point with each and every one of them while the author presents every single notion, emotion, sense of the characters while she leads us, along with them, through this thrilling, suspensful, passionate crime/action story of two people that got caught into the life they can't escape from without consequences of hurting others in the process. It's a story of survival of the fittest, after the destruction and shuttered soul into a non-existence, it's the pain that drives the brain to be trained into mentally strong and emotionally void with the goal of vengeanace and gaining the ultimate freedom until the game of pretence becomes too much, when the right person to awaken the long lost vivid emotions comes into the scene in the >wrong moment in time and changes the stakes, endangering their both lives, with the forbidden undulated passion for life, carnal need and finally love.
There's an abundance of the word RED in variations of expressive word-play (red rage, red passion, crimson…etc), as it's the very same title of the book, which is, in my opinion, fantastical way to emphasize the tension and the intense build up of the emotional turmoil or thrilling suspense of an action sequence in every sense of the word.
The characters are unique, well developed and you can sympathize with them even if they are in situation that is not acceptable, to the majority considering the norms of the society BUT the circumstances they are in, are not those you deal in an everyday situation, they are extreme, they are dangerous and life threatening and yet you find yourself in a knot of being unable to help Rylan and Tate to get out of the messed up situation they found themselves in. And every single one of those is a temptation on its own screaming volume, you need to appreaciate every angle, consider all the facts then justify or judge their actions. I chose the first.
In short, I loved it. It was a tad bit long and the pacing in the resolvment of the story slowed down the pent up thrill but the story ends in an anticipation with want of finding out the answers.
For a debut novel, this is a sign of either, an remarkably talented author to watch out for in the future, or well, I hope it won't come to that – „breaking under pressure“ point BUT we shall see and *fingers crossed* as I am eagerly anticipating for a second installment of Love in color series by S.M. WEST.
Amazingly well written debut novel!
*thumb up*
***ARC generously provided by the author S.M. West in exchange for an honest review***
Five years ago, Tate Conrad's life was destroyed and her love murdered in front of her eyes by the hands of the flagitious, ruthless and despicable scum Robert/Bobby Thornton and her father, a cruel criminal/businessman Warren Conrad. Her life is orchestrated by these two men as she's been living in utter hell
Hello darkness, I'm pleased to meet you.
of an abusive torture in the forced marriage with the murderer.
I crave my husband's extruciating death.
I crave my father's eternal suffering.
I crave their pitiful downfall.
I crave vengenace.
I crave freedom.
She's been planning this for the last dreadful five years of her shadow life. She will succeed. She will be victorious in the end. She's been working as an informant for the FBI providing crucial infomation against her husband and her father. She's determined and driven by hatred and yet she's been completely emtpy of any valid emotion until that one unexpected moment when another FBI handler steps into the scene replacing her previous one that she got to know and was comfortable with. This change sets the uncomfortable sensation in Tate cause it's the last thing she expected, but the very sight of special agent Rylan Wolfe stirs disturbing notion in her, shaking her non-existence to the core.
And that is a dangerous thing, cause she can't be deterred from the plan. And Rylan Wolfe is a distraction. They both fight it, cause it can really destroy a significant operation and end lives BUT what they can't deny is so much stronger than they are. It's a powerful force beyond carnal need. It's awaken the long buried emotions and it's painful to endure it without a touch, when danger is lingering on every corner and every step they make…
Our first earth-shattering kiss is the dawn of something…something consuming, forbidden and dangerous. I can't put this plan at risk.
And as the time is ticking away, every second is crucial and the final strike against Warren and Bobby is closing in, the tension is high, especially when Rylan Wolfe infiltrates as another informant under alias Clint Somerset , and the closeness to Tate brings more excrutiating and dangerous angst that could shatter it all. The game of trust and mistrust between Rylan and Tate is on the test, as the noose comes close to ending the things before its due time…
We are playing a dangerous game. The finish line is in sight. If anything goes wrong, it won't end well for us.
And in the end, will the taste of vengeance and final revenge settle Tate's soul to rest? Or will she need more substance to re-fill what she believed died five years ago? Is Rylan the one who can bring her back to herself now that all is empty again?
In that significant moment…maybe…yes…in the turmoil of danger and chaos Rylan did exactly that.
Even with all its vast array of darkness, there are always shades of red, vibrant
love coloring our life. Ry is my color.
Someone once told me that „everyone can write, but not everyone can write good.“ And I have to say that I absolutely agree with that statement and I have to also state this: S.M. West hit the roof, she most definitely CAN write and she CAN write GOOD.
First of all, the writing is tipical for journalism. The sentences are short, clear and intense and to the pin point with each and every one of them while the author presents every single notion, emotion, sense of the characters while she leads us, along with them, through this thrilling, suspensful, passionate crime/action story of two people that got caught into the life they can't escape from without consequences of hurting others in the process. It's a story of survival of the fittest, after the destruction and shuttered soul into a non-existence, it's the pain that drives the brain to be trained into mentally strong and emotionally void with the goal of vengeanace and gaining the ultimate freedom until the game of pretence becomes too much, when the right person to awaken the long lost vivid emotions comes into the scene in the >wrong moment in time and changes the stakes, endangering their both lives, with the forbidden undulated passion for life, carnal need and finally love.
There's an abundance of the word RED in variations of expressive word-play (red rage, red passion, crimson…etc), as it's the very same title of the book, which is, in my opinion, fantastical way to emphasize the tension and the intense build up of the emotional turmoil or thrilling suspense of an action sequence in every sense of the word.
The characters are unique, well developed and you can sympathize with them even if they are in situation that is not acceptable, to the majority considering the norms of the society BUT the circumstances they are in, are not those you deal in an everyday situation, they are extreme, they are dangerous and life threatening and yet you find yourself in a knot of being unable to help Rylan and Tate to get out of the messed up situation they found themselves in. And every single one of those is a temptation on its own screaming volume, you need to appreaciate every angle, consider all the facts then justify or judge their actions. I chose the first.
In short, I loved it. It was a tad bit long and the pacing in the resolvment of the story slowed down the pent up thrill but the story ends in an anticipation with want of finding out the answers.
For a debut novel, this is a sign of either, an remarkably talented author to watch out for in the future, or well, I hope it won't come to that – „breaking under pressure“ point BUT we shall see and *fingers crossed* as I am eagerly anticipating for a second installment of Love in color series by S.M. WEST.
Amazingly well written debut novel!
*thumb up*
***ARC generously provided by the author S.M. West in exchange for an honest review***
December 29, 2018
Honestly, you would never even guess by reading this story that it was the debut novel for S.M. West. I sure didn't and it caught me by surprise. Suzanne, you knocked this out of the park on your first try!! It was well-written, fast-paced, intriguing, suspenseful, sexy and entertaining. If this was her first attempt, I can't imagine how amazing her next book will be!
Tate was trapped in a situation that most of us couldn't fathom. She was used and abused and those she was supposed to be able to trust, those who should have been protecting her, were the worst of them all. She finally found a solution, a way out, but it involved relying on other people and obviously trust didn't come easy for this woman.
Rylan was the FBI agent tasked to help Tate. Their immediate attraction complicated matters and the author made their ride a joy to read. I loved the push and pull between them and enjoyed watching their eventual capitulation. They were extremely hot together, but there was also no denying the intense emotional connection that they shared.
This story started off by breaking my heart, however, I took a chance with this author and had faith that she would deliver me whole on the other side. There were some inconsistencies and instances in which I had to suspend belief and remind myself that this story was fiction, but that didn't take anything away from my overall enjoyment of it. Through the ups and downs, ins and outs, and utter devastation that was contained within its pages, RED gave me a satisfying, if unfinished, ending to Rylan and Tate's story.
Release Date: February 6, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 3.5 out of 5
Book Type: Book One of the Love in Color series
Tate was trapped in a situation that most of us couldn't fathom. She was used and abused and those she was supposed to be able to trust, those who should have been protecting her, were the worst of them all. She finally found a solution, a way out, but it involved relying on other people and obviously trust didn't come easy for this woman.
Rylan was the FBI agent tasked to help Tate. Their immediate attraction complicated matters and the author made their ride a joy to read. I loved the push and pull between them and enjoyed watching their eventual capitulation. They were extremely hot together, but there was also no denying the intense emotional connection that they shared.
This story started off by breaking my heart, however, I took a chance with this author and had faith that she would deliver me whole on the other side. There were some inconsistencies and instances in which I had to suspend belief and remind myself that this story was fiction, but that didn't take anything away from my overall enjoyment of it. Through the ups and downs, ins and outs, and utter devastation that was contained within its pages, RED gave me a satisfying, if unfinished, ending to Rylan and Tate's story.
Release Date: February 6, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 3.5 out of 5
Book Type: Book One of the Love in Color series
July 3, 2017
I absolutely LOVED everything about this book... :) Story, writing, characters etc. were fantastic but especially Rylan & Tate's chemistry were really good. <3 Oh also I loved Tate soooo much. She's a one tough lady! :)
Ps. Can't wait to read 2nd book "BLUE" :)
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Ps. Can't wait to read 2nd book "BLUE" :)
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2017
RATING: 4 Sexy and Suspenseful Hearts!
Red is a thrilling start to the Love in Color series, giving us non-stop suspense in the form of an undercover FBI operation and a swoon-worthy romance that ensures we’re fully engaged from first page to last.
Tate is an extraordinary woman, doing her best to reclaim her life from an abusive husband while reeling from the emotional turmoil caused by years of abuse, a shocking betrayal by someone she trusted, and a personal loss. While her dark and painful past is something that defines who she’s become, she never lets it be all that does so, refusing to be cowed and going head to head with FBI Agent Rylan Wolfe when he unwittingly dons the alpha male suit and tie. Though she’s understandably angry with the hand life has dealt her and scared of facing her husband before she’s ready, Tate doesn’t go half-cocked in search of vengeance, instead she recognizes her own limitations and allows Rylan to take the reins of the mission while she does everything she can as an informant to help, proving time and again she’s even stronger than she gives herself credit for.
Rylan, for his part, is the perfect complement to our heroine, a man who is intelligent and fiercely dedicated to his job, until Tate steps into his field of vision and removes his single focused-blinders. He’s a protector at heart which at times leads him to hastily overstep his boundaries in order to ensure no harm comes to Tate, however he’s also incredibly patient and understanding of her situation, knowing when to take a step back and just let her be her own person. While the relationship between Tate and Rylan develops quickly, it’s easy to move past that minor inconvenience due in part to the easy flow of the writing but also because Rylan is the one person that’s made her feel safe since she was forcibly wed. The two of them together are all kinds of sexy, giving us butterflies in between action sequences and interspersing light among the presence of weightier issues.
Overall, Red is a story that reaches out and grabs hold from the very first page, the romance and suspense perfectly balanced so that one doesn’t outshine the other, and just enough moments of levity to keep the darkness from overwhelming. Ms. West also does a brilliant job of setting up our next romantic pair, and I can’t wait to see how things unfold for Rylan’s younger sister Carys and his best friend Evan.
Posted: July 5, 2017
Red is a thrilling start to the Love in Color series, giving us non-stop suspense in the form of an undercover FBI operation and a swoon-worthy romance that ensures we’re fully engaged from first page to last.
She’s painfully gorgeous, yet absolutely arresting when riled. Her passion is potent and striking. This woman is beyond lethal.
Tate is an extraordinary woman, doing her best to reclaim her life from an abusive husband while reeling from the emotional turmoil caused by years of abuse, a shocking betrayal by someone she trusted, and a personal loss. While her dark and painful past is something that defines who she’s become, she never lets it be all that does so, refusing to be cowed and going head to head with FBI Agent Rylan Wolfe when he unwittingly dons the alpha male suit and tie. Though she’s understandably angry with the hand life has dealt her and scared of facing her husband before she’s ready, Tate doesn’t go half-cocked in search of vengeance, instead she recognizes her own limitations and allows Rylan to take the reins of the mission while she does everything she can as an informant to help, proving time and again she’s even stronger than she gives herself credit for.
She is it for me.
My first love.
My last love.
My only passion.
My everything.
Rylan, for his part, is the perfect complement to our heroine, a man who is intelligent and fiercely dedicated to his job, until Tate steps into his field of vision and removes his single focused-blinders. He’s a protector at heart which at times leads him to hastily overstep his boundaries in order to ensure no harm comes to Tate, however he’s also incredibly patient and understanding of her situation, knowing when to take a step back and just let her be her own person. While the relationship between Tate and Rylan develops quickly, it’s easy to move past that minor inconvenience due in part to the easy flow of the writing but also because Rylan is the one person that’s made her feel safe since she was forcibly wed. The two of them together are all kinds of sexy, giving us butterflies in between action sequences and interspersing light among the presence of weightier issues.
His touch, words and love are the passion, light and love that abolished the violence, dark and hate from my life...Ry is my color.
Overall, Red is a story that reaches out and grabs hold from the very first page, the romance and suspense perfectly balanced so that one doesn’t outshine the other, and just enough moments of levity to keep the darkness from overwhelming. Ms. West also does a brilliant job of setting up our next romantic pair, and I can’t wait to see how things unfold for Rylan’s younger sister Carys and his best friend Evan.
Posted: July 5, 2017
Read
August 20, 2020Amazon US ~ http://amzn.to/2icCuO7
Amazon CA ~ http://amzn.to/2kbLozL
Amazon UK ~ http://amzn.to/2kan9S5
Amazon AU ~ http://amzn.to/2kERx7C
February 9, 2017
LIVE!! #99cents : http://amzn.to/2icCuO7
Tate has been living her personal hell for far too long. A father who's the worse one you can imagine, a mother who only see her best interest and a husband who's a criminal using his wife as a tool, that leaves Max, her brother who's too far to really protect her.
In order to get some kind of living, she has no choice but to team up with the FBI.
Rylan is an FBI agent who knows getting involved with an informant can be dangerous and tricky. But staying away from Tate is not an option, not only because he's attracted but because he has his own kind of revenge to get.
“I’d forgotten what it was like to want a man. These weeks with you have shown me, reminded me what it’s like to be with a real man. One who is tender, sweet and all kinds of sexy.”
Reading the first book by an author always makes me feel special. When the book turns out to be a winner I'm even more excited knowing I have someone new to follow.
Red was so beautifully and precisely written. The story-line is complex but all fall into place while reading. It was such a pleasure to make assumptions, guessing how things will turn out and then see how it unfolds.
Tate & Rylan were a good match. Their attraction felt genuine. Rylan was so attentive, so caring. He knows where Tate comes from. He knows she might not be ready to love again but he's still there for her every step of the way!
Tate was such a strong character. She loved once and paid a terrible price. At the mercy of a sadistic man, she never believed love could come from all this hell.
The different characters are all addictive and I can't wait for more. With Red, first in the Love in Color series, I'm already ready for many more journeys. I can safely say I'm eager to know what S.M West has to offer, what's hidden in her mind and beg to come to life. Once you open the book, buckle up and prepare for some action!
~ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest review ~
-------------------------------------------------
BETA READER REVIEW
I had the chance to be a beta reader for this new little one and trust me: Add this!
I'm keeping my rating to myself for now because I want to read the final piece before rating it.
Just know that this is so worth it! I'm so excited for this release, so excited for all of you to discover how talented Suzanne is!
And I'm so proud she decided to publish her first novel. I can't imagine how much stress it is!
Enough said: if it's not done already add this in your TBR
Tate has been living her personal hell for far too long. A father who's the worse one you can imagine, a mother who only see her best interest and a husband who's a criminal using his wife as a tool, that leaves Max, her brother who's too far to really protect her.
In order to get some kind of living, she has no choice but to team up with the FBI.
Rylan is an FBI agent who knows getting involved with an informant can be dangerous and tricky. But staying away from Tate is not an option, not only because he's attracted but because he has his own kind of revenge to get.
“I’d forgotten what it was like to want a man. These weeks with you have shown me, reminded me what it’s like to be with a real man. One who is tender, sweet and all kinds of sexy.”
Reading the first book by an author always makes me feel special. When the book turns out to be a winner I'm even more excited knowing I have someone new to follow.
Red was so beautifully and precisely written. The story-line is complex but all fall into place while reading. It was such a pleasure to make assumptions, guessing how things will turn out and then see how it unfolds.
Tate & Rylan were a good match. Their attraction felt genuine. Rylan was so attentive, so caring. He knows where Tate comes from. He knows she might not be ready to love again but he's still there for her every step of the way!
Tate was such a strong character. She loved once and paid a terrible price. At the mercy of a sadistic man, she never believed love could come from all this hell.
The different characters are all addictive and I can't wait for more. With Red, first in the Love in Color series, I'm already ready for many more journeys. I can safely say I'm eager to know what S.M West has to offer, what's hidden in her mind and beg to come to life. Once you open the book, buckle up and prepare for some action!
~ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest review ~
-------------------------------------------------
BETA READER REVIEW
I had the chance to be a beta reader for this new little one and trust me: Add this!
I'm keeping my rating to myself for now because I want to read the final piece before rating it.
Just know that this is so worth it! I'm so excited for this release, so excited for all of you to discover how talented Suzanne is!
And I'm so proud she decided to publish her first novel. I can't imagine how much stress it is!
Enough said: if it's not done already add this in your TBR
February 8, 2017
LIVE!
4 Steamy-suspenseful Stars!
I had the opportunity to read Red as a beta copy. A debut novel for SM West, Red is chock full of mystery and suspense. A heroine dealt an unfair hand at the hand of a Mafia father and a similar fate with a sadistic husband, Bobby, Tate Thornton lives a life of fear and profound control by those two men in her life. Determined to right the wrongs and exact justice for herself and that of her murdered boyfriend, Tate teams with the FBI to take down their operation- infesting it from the inside out. It's only when she gets reassigned to a very tall, dark and hot Rylan Wolfe that lines begin to blur between business...to pleasure.
And without knowing anymore about the torture and torment of living with Thornton, I know what we share is raw, real, and overpowering for her as it is for me. With each other, we are home, found, whole.
SM West kept me feverishly tuned to my kindle in Red. Her writing style is almost poetic, detailed to the point we are smack dab in the scenes. Trying to take down a mob syndicate in New York is no easy feat, and when all eyes are on Tate, she struggles to toe the line and keep focus on the goal- freedom from an abusive husband and father. But finally feeling something for a man beyond disgust is a new thing for her and Special Agent Rylan Wolfe proves hard to resist.
A great debut novel from SM West. I look forward to more from her. Red can be read as a standalone novel. I see a great set-up for future characters in the next books within this series!
Advanced beta copy received by author in exchange for my honest review. Excerpt taken from early copy and may change in final product.
February 21, 2017
5 Scarlet Stars
This debut novel had me flipping pages long past my bedtime. For anyone who knows how much I value my sleep, you will understand the significance of this.
Red is a passionate story. Every element of this book is designed to have you thinking, to have you feeling, and to keep you glued to the words on the page. From start to finish, I was connected, invested, and intrigued.
The heroine, Tate Conrad is not without fault - she has doubt and demons like the rest of us - but she's also incredibly smart and strong - the perfect combination of what makes a terrific leading lady.
The hero, Rylan Wolfe is a sexy alpha-male who also happens to be loyal and empathetic. He's the kind of leading man who makes you want to rip your panties off, but he's got a (well-hidden) sensitive side that'll make you swoon too.
The love story is fantastic, but it's the overall plot of this book that stands out, in my mind. It's so well thought out and put together that it's easy to forget it's just a story, not a true crime retelling.
Overall, RED is a fabulous first read from author SM West. I'm looking forward to a whole lot of greatness to come!
*Thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to Beta Read for her - I think I've read this book about 5 times now & I've loved it every single time <3
This debut novel had me flipping pages long past my bedtime. For anyone who knows how much I value my sleep, you will understand the significance of this.
Red is a passionate story. Every element of this book is designed to have you thinking, to have you feeling, and to keep you glued to the words on the page. From start to finish, I was connected, invested, and intrigued.
The heroine, Tate Conrad is not without fault - she has doubt and demons like the rest of us - but she's also incredibly smart and strong - the perfect combination of what makes a terrific leading lady.
The hero, Rylan Wolfe is a sexy alpha-male who also happens to be loyal and empathetic. He's the kind of leading man who makes you want to rip your panties off, but he's got a (well-hidden) sensitive side that'll make you swoon too.
The love story is fantastic, but it's the overall plot of this book that stands out, in my mind. It's so well thought out and put together that it's easy to forget it's just a story, not a true crime retelling.
Overall, RED is a fabulous first read from author SM West. I'm looking forward to a whole lot of greatness to come!
*Thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to Beta Read for her - I think I've read this book about 5 times now & I've loved it every single time <3
October 28, 2021
Desiring the Forbidden
Rylan wants the forbidden. He wants Tate. The problems? One: she's married - to a wretched man but not the point. Two: she's his confidential informant. Three: he's keeping a secret of how they are connected outside of their current situation. Yeah, so they have a few challenges.
I liked the book but a large portion is setting up the world and introducing the players. It is completely necessary, I think, but we don't spend as much time with Ry & Tate as a (potential) couple as I'd prefer.
Warning: that comment about the husband, Bobby, is generous. He's in that lowest of the low category with absolutely nothing redeeming about him. Keeping that in mind, there are non-con events and other abuse. Just putting that out there.
On a happier note, the chemistry between Tate and Rylan is good and noticed by most. There are some scenes that really set things on fire. 🔥🎉
I'm voluntarily reviewing an ALC of this audio book while also reading my copy of the ebook and I'm looking forward to continuing on to the next one. Lauren Sweet and Troy Duran do a good job with the narration.
This is the first in the series. The books can be read as standalone novels but going in order is what I'd recommend as the characters crossover - giving updates on the various couples. That said, I did listen to the fourth book first.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Rylan wants the forbidden. He wants Tate. The problems? One: she's married - to a wretched man but not the point. Two: she's his confidential informant. Three: he's keeping a secret of how they are connected outside of their current situation. Yeah, so they have a few challenges.
I liked the book but a large portion is setting up the world and introducing the players. It is completely necessary, I think, but we don't spend as much time with Ry & Tate as a (potential) couple as I'd prefer.
Warning: that comment about the husband, Bobby, is generous. He's in that lowest of the low category with absolutely nothing redeeming about him. Keeping that in mind, there are non-con events and other abuse. Just putting that out there.
On a happier note, the chemistry between Tate and Rylan is good and noticed by most. There are some scenes that really set things on fire. 🔥🎉
I'm voluntarily reviewing an ALC of this audio book while also reading my copy of the ebook and I'm looking forward to continuing on to the next one. Lauren Sweet and Troy Duran do a good job with the narration.
This is the first in the series. The books can be read as standalone novels but going in order is what I'd recommend as the characters crossover - giving updates on the various couples. That said, I did listen to the fourth book first.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
June 15, 2017
3.5-4 Stars
Red is a great story mixed with suspense and romance. To me Red is Tate's story. Her fighting back and against her parents and her repulsive husband Booby, who controlled and tortured her whenever they saw fit. She's been through so much. Death, loss and abuse but she's finally had enough and decided to work together with the FBI to free herself from her criminal husband and her parents. Her contact is the handsome and skilled Rylan Wolfe. It's no surprise that they instantly share an attraction. For some reason I just couldn't connect or feel their connection. Their attraction and lust for one another was obvious but on a deeper level it lacked substance.
Tate's one fierce and strong woman who hasn't given up despite the hell she's been through. She's definitely the star of Red.
I really enjoyed Tate's relationship with her brother Max and Rylan's with her sister Carys. That was when I felt a connection, substance and love.
I was definitely entertained while reading Red and now I'm so excited and intrigued to read Carys and Evan's story. It was introduced and teased perfectly. Bring on Blue.
3.5-4 BadAssDirtyFightingBackStars
Red is a great story mixed with suspense and romance. To me Red is Tate's story. Her fighting back and against her parents and her repulsive husband Booby, who controlled and tortured her whenever they saw fit. She's been through so much. Death, loss and abuse but she's finally had enough and decided to work together with the FBI to free herself from her criminal husband and her parents. Her contact is the handsome and skilled Rylan Wolfe. It's no surprise that they instantly share an attraction. For some reason I just couldn't connect or feel their connection. Their attraction and lust for one another was obvious but on a deeper level it lacked substance.
Tate's one fierce and strong woman who hasn't given up despite the hell she's been through. She's definitely the star of Red.
I really enjoyed Tate's relationship with her brother Max and Rylan's with her sister Carys. That was when I felt a connection, substance and love.
I was definitely entertained while reading Red and now I'm so excited and intrigued to read Carys and Evan's story. It was introduced and teased perfectly. Bring on Blue.
3.5-4 BadAssDirtyFightingBackStars
February 26, 2017
Melike this, I really do!
Suzanne (SM), I’d say bang up job with this debut novel! Congrats!
There’s plenty room to grow, that’s for sure, but for a debut novel, I’d say SM gave me a story with teeth. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense surrounding crime families and law enforcement, then you should give this a try.
Tate couldn’t have been in a worse situation. Just surrounded by evil, she had to get out. The help came in the form of Ry. Tate has her agenda, and so did Ry. She couldn’t just reveal all her cards, can she now? The more they work together, the more the attraction grew. But when a budding relationship is shrouded with secrets, distrust also builds so how then do you go from there?
While I didn’t agree with all of Tate’s actions, I suppose it makes sense given her past experience. Ry is just the right amount of alpha. Together, I did feel the pull. I enjoyed the sexual tension between them. I bought the heat.
I liked how the story moved. It kept me on edge, just like I expected. I did feel a little conflicted with the last 20-ish% mark. The little time jumps threw me off a little, but at the same time, I can see why it went down that way. And I think some of the loose ends stayed loose. I probably felt like that because I was only told bits of the resolution, rather than shown.
Overall though, like I said, I really enjoyed this one. SM hooked me in just right; so much so that I wanna know about the next story now.
Well done, Suzanne!
Suzanne (SM), I’d say bang up job with this debut novel! Congrats!
There’s plenty room to grow, that’s for sure, but for a debut novel, I’d say SM gave me a story with teeth. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense surrounding crime families and law enforcement, then you should give this a try.
Tate couldn’t have been in a worse situation. Just surrounded by evil, she had to get out. The help came in the form of Ry. Tate has her agenda, and so did Ry. She couldn’t just reveal all her cards, can she now? The more they work together, the more the attraction grew. But when a budding relationship is shrouded with secrets, distrust also builds so how then do you go from there?
While I didn’t agree with all of Tate’s actions, I suppose it makes sense given her past experience. Ry is just the right amount of alpha. Together, I did feel the pull. I enjoyed the sexual tension between them. I bought the heat.
I liked how the story moved. It kept me on edge, just like I expected. I did feel a little conflicted with the last 20-ish% mark. The little time jumps threw me off a little, but at the same time, I can see why it went down that way. And I think some of the loose ends stayed loose. I probably felt like that because I was only told bits of the resolution, rather than shown.
Overall though, like I said, I really enjoyed this one. SM hooked me in just right; so much so that I wanna know about the next story now.
Well done, Suzanne!
February 8, 2017
~~~ 3.5 "debut" stars~~~
I pre-ordered this book when I saw the blurb, but then forgot about it. When it "miraculously" appeared on my Kindle I was all
Tate
was everything what I like in a female protagonist. Fierce, strong, stubborn, resilient, smart, etc.
Rylan
was everything what I like in a male protagonist. Alpha, protective, possessive, jealous, gaga for heroine, etc.
It was lust at first sight, but not love and they fought their attraction for a while. The chemistry was strong and I was really rooting for them. The supporting characters were also very likeable.
The beginning started off strong and I was instantly hooked, lovin' the characters and the story. Especially the villain and the banter between MCs. As the story progressed I felt like it started wilting down.
The story became predictable and needed more depth, there were no twists, the suspense was light and the characters lacked complexity.
Lately, I'm craving books with complex characters that evoke intense/strong emotion, so take that into consideration.
All and all, it was a nice fluffy, debut novel and I liked it. It's a great start and I'm intrigued by the next book in the series.
I pre-ordered this book when I saw the blurb, but then forgot about it. When it "miraculously" appeared on my Kindle I was all
Tate
was everything what I like in a female protagonist. Fierce, strong, stubborn, resilient, smart, etc.
Rylan
was everything what I like in a male protagonist. Alpha, protective, possessive, jealous, gaga for heroine, etc.
It was lust at first sight, but not love and they fought their attraction for a while. The chemistry was strong and I was really rooting for them. The supporting characters were also very likeable.
The beginning started off strong and I was instantly hooked, lovin' the characters and the story. Especially the villain and the banter between MCs. As the story progressed I felt like it started wilting down.
The story became predictable and needed more depth, there were no twists, the suspense was light and the characters lacked complexity.
Lately, I'm craving books with complex characters that evoke intense/strong emotion, so take that into consideration.
All and all, it was a nice fluffy, debut novel and I liked it. It's a great start and I'm intrigued by the next book in the series.
February 13, 2017
3.5 Stars
February 10, 2017
Did I enjoy this story? Yes.
I enjoyed the intensity of the story, the high stakes, the forbidden romance aspect. It all made for good entertainment.
But sadly I couldn't connect with either of our protagonists.
Rylan (LOVE THIS NAME BTW ;) ) Wolfe is an undercover FBI Agent on a mission to take down two criminals who in the grand scheme of things, are no more than nuisances in the game. But Rylan's best friend who is like a brother was taken by these two men and later his body was found in a dumpster. Rylan will stop at nothing to take down the men who killed someone dear to him. But all carefully planned strategies over the years go to hell once he meets the wife of one of the criminals.
Tate Thornton's life isn't her own. She doesn't have control over what she does, who she talks to, where she sleeps. Her husband has full control over her. Has now for five years, since he killed the man she loved. Tate will do anything to keep Bobby from killing anyone else dear to her, but for two years now she's been planning to escape her life. Working alongside the FBI she feeds them information on Bobby's dealings in hope they can help get her out. But the new agent assigned to her makes things a little difficult, especially when he ignites something inside of her she thought long dead.
I loved Rylan but his instant need for Tate was tiring. He was constantly making rash decisions when it came to seeing Tate, popping into her work, taking her to lunch and he'd always be like "I shouldn't be doing this...but I can't help it." And I'd be over here like pull yourself together Agent! His need to be around Tate was jeopardizing the whole mission! Seriously unprofessional. Also when he threw accusations at Tate without concrete evidence...is he really an FBI Agent!?
Tate...oh God this woman drove me nutty insane!
"She talks about trust and yet she's the one who betrayed our trust. As I stare into her eyes, the moment it hits her is unmistakeable. She doesn't have a leg to stand on. If anyone broke a trust, it was her."
She was so hot and cold, up and down, pushing then pulling.
Individually these characters were good but together they turned into complete fools.
I was more intrigued by the secondary characters to be honest. I loved Tate's brother Max. Such a great brother.
Very curious about Evan though!
Overall enjoyable.
I enjoyed the intensity of the story, the high stakes, the forbidden romance aspect. It all made for good entertainment.
But sadly I couldn't connect with either of our protagonists.
Rylan (LOVE THIS NAME BTW ;) ) Wolfe is an undercover FBI Agent on a mission to take down two criminals who in the grand scheme of things, are no more than nuisances in the game. But Rylan's best friend who is like a brother was taken by these two men and later his body was found in a dumpster. Rylan will stop at nothing to take down the men who killed someone dear to him. But all carefully planned strategies over the years go to hell once he meets the wife of one of the criminals.
Tate Thornton's life isn't her own. She doesn't have control over what she does, who she talks to, where she sleeps. Her husband has full control over her. Has now for five years, since he killed the man she loved. Tate will do anything to keep Bobby from killing anyone else dear to her, but for two years now she's been planning to escape her life. Working alongside the FBI she feeds them information on Bobby's dealings in hope they can help get her out. But the new agent assigned to her makes things a little difficult, especially when he ignites something inside of her she thought long dead.
I loved Rylan but his instant need for Tate was tiring. He was constantly making rash decisions when it came to seeing Tate, popping into her work, taking her to lunch and he'd always be like "I shouldn't be doing this...but I can't help it." And I'd be over here like pull yourself together Agent! His need to be around Tate was jeopardizing the whole mission! Seriously unprofessional. Also when he threw accusations at Tate without concrete evidence...is he really an FBI Agent!?
Tate...oh God this woman drove me nutty insane!
"She talks about trust and yet she's the one who betrayed our trust. As I stare into her eyes, the moment it hits her is unmistakeable. She doesn't have a leg to stand on. If anyone broke a trust, it was her."
She was so hot and cold, up and down, pushing then pulling.
Individually these characters were good but together they turned into complete fools.
I was more intrigued by the secondary characters to be honest. I loved Tate's brother Max. Such a great brother.
Very curious about Evan though!
Overall enjoyable.
February 7, 2017
"Red is all I See."
Red by S.M. West blew my mind. A compelling story about letting go of the past and look forward to the future. Letting that right person in through those thick walls.
The story begins with a young women named Tate who had it all. Her life was pitch perfect.
But with a flick of a wrist all she ever cared about is lost. Her once pure beating heart is forever black. Cold as ice.
"Hello darkness, I'm pleased to meet you."
My heart broke for the Tate. what she had to endure....No one should have to go through that. On the outside she is cold emotionless, and cruel. But on the inside she is lost, alone, and broken beyond repair.
But when Rylan comes into the picture, he becomes her savior. He is undercover FBI agent, and slowly get's inside Tate's walls and shows her its okay to fall. He knows he shouldn't be protecting her, let alone fall in love, but the heart wants what it wants!
"He is already ripping away at my seams of control. I wont let him get too close. Let him glimpse inside of me, see me bare, see my truth."
I couldn't get enough of this book! I couldn't put it down, my heart was so invested in Red. I was biting my nails and on the edge of my seat. I am so looking forward to read more from S.M. West.
S.M. West's writing was fresh and flowed beautifully. I felt as if I was watching a movie playing in my head!
I can't express how much I loved this story! Highly recommend if you love a dark erotic suspenseful romance novel that will keep you on your toes!
Made a little teaser video if you want to check it out: https://mixcord.co/picplaypost/p/jZV8...
"Received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review."
Red by S.M. West blew my mind. A compelling story about letting go of the past and look forward to the future. Letting that right person in through those thick walls.
The story begins with a young women named Tate who had it all. Her life was pitch perfect.
But with a flick of a wrist all she ever cared about is lost. Her once pure beating heart is forever black. Cold as ice.
"Hello darkness, I'm pleased to meet you."
My heart broke for the Tate. what she had to endure....No one should have to go through that. On the outside she is cold emotionless, and cruel. But on the inside she is lost, alone, and broken beyond repair.
But when Rylan comes into the picture, he becomes her savior. He is undercover FBI agent, and slowly get's inside Tate's walls and shows her its okay to fall. He knows he shouldn't be protecting her, let alone fall in love, but the heart wants what it wants!
"He is already ripping away at my seams of control. I wont let him get too close. Let him glimpse inside of me, see me bare, see my truth."
I couldn't get enough of this book! I couldn't put it down, my heart was so invested in Red. I was biting my nails and on the edge of my seat. I am so looking forward to read more from S.M. West.
S.M. West's writing was fresh and flowed beautifully. I felt as if I was watching a movie playing in my head!
I can't express how much I loved this story! Highly recommend if you love a dark erotic suspenseful romance novel that will keep you on your toes!
Made a little teaser video if you want to check it out: https://mixcord.co/picplaypost/p/jZV8...
"Received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review."
February 15, 2017
this was a nice debut novel in the dark genre, the last part was slightly slow for me, but overall it was a fast paced read, with a intersting and somewhat scary plot and i liked both Ry and Tate, cat wait for Van and Carys book and hopefuly Julias sometime and i have a Theory from the ending that Max was somehow behind ht hapened to Boby and there father, though im shere he didnt want to set Tate up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2020
3.5 Stars!
April 4, 2017
Red is my favorite color, and I'm not even joking !!!
« Red, the color of extermes. Of life, love and death. The crimson bith of life. The scarlett passion of love. The fiery fury of violence. And the rouge hue of your heart's last beat. »
SM West delivers in her debut novel an intense, emotionaly loaded story.
Meet Tate, strong, fierce woman who's been living hell for years at the hands of an abusive husband (Bobby) and a ruthless father (Warren), both of them involved in mob related shady buisness. Meet Rylan, FBI agent, new Tate's handler, working on the case of bringing Bobby and Warren down. Both Tate and Rylan are animated by the same goal of putting them behind bars, but what happens when passion and love enter the picture ?
"It's at this moment I realize this connection between us is much bigger than this case. [...] I want her."
Red is an intense read about revenge, guilt and betrayal. But it's also about friendship, family, trust and resilience. The atmosphere is angsty and yet sometimes sweet. I loved the pace, rather fast, the surprising turns that kept me intrigued all along.
But most of all, I loved Tate, the fire that never left her, even when the worst arose. She is strong-willed, cool-headed, faithful and protective of those she loves.
"I don't fear for my life. The only thing I fear is getting caught before I can finish this."
I could totally relate to her, which is the best I can hope in a book ; Suzanne did an amazing job at conveying her characters feelings and emotions.
The ending was just perfect, no spoiler here, but I'm really happy with the way it turned out.
I'm now ready to finally meet Van!
Congratulations Suzanne and thank you for your kindness :)
« Red, the color of extermes. Of life, love and death. The crimson bith of life. The scarlett passion of love. The fiery fury of violence. And the rouge hue of your heart's last beat. »
SM West delivers in her debut novel an intense, emotionaly loaded story.
Meet Tate, strong, fierce woman who's been living hell for years at the hands of an abusive husband (Bobby) and a ruthless father (Warren), both of them involved in mob related shady buisness. Meet Rylan, FBI agent, new Tate's handler, working on the case of bringing Bobby and Warren down. Both Tate and Rylan are animated by the same goal of putting them behind bars, but what happens when passion and love enter the picture ?
"It's at this moment I realize this connection between us is much bigger than this case. [...] I want her."
Red is an intense read about revenge, guilt and betrayal. But it's also about friendship, family, trust and resilience. The atmosphere is angsty and yet sometimes sweet. I loved the pace, rather fast, the surprising turns that kept me intrigued all along.
But most of all, I loved Tate, the fire that never left her, even when the worst arose. She is strong-willed, cool-headed, faithful and protective of those she loves.
"I don't fear for my life. The only thing I fear is getting caught before I can finish this."
I could totally relate to her, which is the best I can hope in a book ; Suzanne did an amazing job at conveying her characters feelings and emotions.
The ending was just perfect, no spoiler here, but I'm really happy with the way it turned out.
I'm now ready to finally meet Van!
Congratulations Suzanne and thank you for your kindness :)
September 25, 2017
Full disclosure: I consider SM a friend. I like her greatly--a feat that's kind of big for me because you know, don't make a lot of friends. She regularly reads + reviews my work. We're peers in this writing world. She offered me an ARC of Red back before it ever even came out. Again, full disclosure, I refused the ARC. Why? I already pre-ordered the book, and should I have read & decided I didn't like the book, I simply wouldn't have reviewed or rated at all.
That's what I do for peers.
So, full disclosure. Here I am, rating and writing a review for a book I quite liked.
Tate Conrad lives a crappy life--quite literally. She's stuck with an abusive husband (this is putting it mildly, really), in a life she hates, with people all around her that she cannot trust. A single event years earlier took away someone she loved, and since then, the vibrant red of rage has been her constant. The need for revenge is so strong, she's willing to jump into bed with the FBI to take down her husband, her parents, and their illegal activities.
Rylan Wolfe, FBI agent, gorgeous piece of man, and a major connection to a piece of Tate's history that she doesn't even realize, is here to help. In more ways than one. Heh.
Red is fast-paced, sexy, and also, heartbreaking. It's beautiful and ugly. It's secrets, holding back, and letting go all the while holding on tight.
If you like it when the good guys win, this is for you. If you like it when a crappy husband gets his dues, this is for you. If you like it when a strong woman wins, this book is most definitely for you.
For a debut, SM knocked the basics out of the park. Great storyline, interesting characters, and dangers that keep you turning the pages to get to that HEA you ~hope is at the end.
A couple things to note:
~There are some editing issues. I mention this because for some, it matters, and they like a warning. It isn't so high that it drew me out of the story, but they are there.
~Some may consider the heroine to be like a ping-pong ball with her emotions--wishy washy, even, because she is high emotions almost all the time whenever she is with Rylan. I think, it's understandable. Given the past few years of her life have been dedicated to simply existing, never pushing to far, keeping out of trouble, and dodging fists and body parts that continue to force themselves into her, she can never be herself. She can never show emotions. When she is finally put face-to-face with a man she not only finds attractive and romantically involves her self with who ALSO allows her to show her hand, colors, and emotions, it makes sense to me that bottled up things come spilling out on those closest, whom you can trust. But again, some may consider her outbursts/emotions as something else. Perhaps read between the lines?
So, congrats, Suz, on your debut novel!
Sorry it took me this long to read it.
*shameshameshame*
That's what I do for peers.
So, full disclosure. Here I am, rating and writing a review for a book I quite liked.
Tate Conrad lives a crappy life--quite literally. She's stuck with an abusive husband (this is putting it mildly, really), in a life she hates, with people all around her that she cannot trust. A single event years earlier took away someone she loved, and since then, the vibrant red of rage has been her constant. The need for revenge is so strong, she's willing to jump into bed with the FBI to take down her husband, her parents, and their illegal activities.
Rylan Wolfe, FBI agent, gorgeous piece of man, and a major connection to a piece of Tate's history that she doesn't even realize, is here to help. In more ways than one. Heh.
Red is fast-paced, sexy, and also, heartbreaking. It's beautiful and ugly. It's secrets, holding back, and letting go all the while holding on tight.
If you like it when the good guys win, this is for you. If you like it when a crappy husband gets his dues, this is for you. If you like it when a strong woman wins, this book is most definitely for you.
For a debut, SM knocked the basics out of the park. Great storyline, interesting characters, and dangers that keep you turning the pages to get to that HEA you ~hope is at the end.
A couple things to note:
~There are some editing issues. I mention this because for some, it matters, and they like a warning. It isn't so high that it drew me out of the story, but they are there.
~Some may consider the heroine to be like a ping-pong ball with her emotions--wishy washy, even, because she is high emotions almost all the time whenever she is with Rylan. I think, it's understandable. Given the past few years of her life have been dedicated to simply existing, never pushing to far, keeping out of trouble, and dodging fists and body parts that continue to force themselves into her, she can never be herself. She can never show emotions. When she is finally put face-to-face with a man she not only finds attractive and romantically involves her self with who ALSO allows her to show her hand, colors, and emotions, it makes sense to me that bottled up things come spilling out on those closest, whom you can trust. But again, some may consider her outbursts/emotions as something else. Perhaps read between the lines?
So, congrats, Suz, on your debut novel!
Sorry it took me this long to read it.
*shameshameshame*
February 7, 2017
Suspenseful to the absolute max, even when I wanted to turn away I just couldn't this story just grabbed me and I couldn't let go until I was finished and all this from a first time author, I really can't wait to read what she comes out with next.
I loved how the story went back and forth in time to explain everything from multiple peoples points of view I will say the one thing I would have added was the pov from her parents as Tate idolised her father at one time what happened to him to make him give in to Bobby and seriously her mother acted like she hated Tate there is a lot more to that woman than meets the eye.
Tate is an absolute sweetheart no wonder Rylan fell for her straight away, seriously how could he not Tate is sweet, gorgeous but not vain and she is trapped in a cage designed by her brutal husband but even after everything she has gone through in her life she will never let him snuff her light out completely.
Bobby is an abomination, a blight on the world and I wouldn't blame Tate at all if she ended him.
Rylan Wolfe the sexy FBI man who wants nothing more than to help Tate but he has personal motives that he is keeping from her. Ry is strong and a true alpha male but unlike Tate's husband Bobby, Ry is not a violent man even when pushed to the brink he somehow keeps his cool, well mostly...lol Tate does seem to push his buttons extra hard sometimes.
I really loved Ry's protective nature even though Tate probably felt it was stifling at times at least Ry's protectiveness came from a point of love where Bobby's protective natures was fully controling and obsessive.
Overall S.M. Westthis story was a thrilling tale from beginning to end and set's up the next story leaving me wanting for more.
I loved how the story went back and forth in time to explain everything from multiple peoples points of view I will say the one thing I would have added was the pov from her parents as Tate idolised her father at one time what happened to him to make him give in to Bobby and seriously her mother acted like she hated Tate there is a lot more to that woman than meets the eye.
Tate is an absolute sweetheart no wonder Rylan fell for her straight away, seriously how could he not Tate is sweet, gorgeous but not vain and she is trapped in a cage designed by her brutal husband but even after everything she has gone through in her life she will never let him snuff her light out completely.
Bobby is an abomination, a blight on the world and I wouldn't blame Tate at all if she ended him.
Rylan Wolfe the sexy FBI man who wants nothing more than to help Tate but he has personal motives that he is keeping from her. Ry is strong and a true alpha male but unlike Tate's husband Bobby, Ry is not a violent man even when pushed to the brink he somehow keeps his cool, well mostly...lol Tate does seem to push his buttons extra hard sometimes.
I really loved Ry's protective nature even though Tate probably felt it was stifling at times at least Ry's protectiveness came from a point of love where Bobby's protective natures was fully controling and obsessive.
Overall S.M. Westthis story was a thrilling tale from beginning to end and set's up the next story leaving me wanting for more.
February 13, 2017
For a debut novel this is good...
***full review to come***
***full review to come***
March 31, 2018
This is an intense and at times dark read. I won’t lie, some parts made me shudder, but if you love a good, dark thriller with a lot of sexy scenes, then this is your jam.
S.M. West builds great details that help you see the scenes as they unfold. Her characters are well written and she gives the reader the perfect window into their actions and thoughts. There are twists and turns that you don’t see coming and it will keep you in the edge of your seat.
S.M. West builds great details that help you see the scenes as they unfold. Her characters are well written and she gives the reader the perfect window into their actions and thoughts. There are twists and turns that you don’t see coming and it will keep you in the edge of your seat.
February 6, 2017
What a great debut novel, this book was so well written you'd never know it was written by a first time author!
This book took you back and forth throughout time and it was told from multiple POVs. From the beginning you are dying to know what is to come and why it was happening. This book is forbidden and suspenseful.
If you are a fan of the mob books this will be another book you will fall in love with. Although, if you have some triggers... (rape, abuse) you may not be able to handle this one.
Tate our heroine has been through so much, but her will to live and survive is so fierce, I can't say that I would be the same in situation. She is smart and stays level headed for the most part.
Grab this book and get ready for twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat and be swooned and enjoy some hot sexy times.
This book took you back and forth throughout time and it was told from multiple POVs. From the beginning you are dying to know what is to come and why it was happening. This book is forbidden and suspenseful.
If you are a fan of the mob books this will be another book you will fall in love with. Although, if you have some triggers... (rape, abuse) you may not be able to handle this one.
Tate our heroine has been through so much, but her will to live and survive is so fierce, I can't say that I would be the same in situation. She is smart and stays level headed for the most part.
Grab this book and get ready for twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat and be swooned and enjoy some hot sexy times.
February 9, 2017
Great debut!! I devoured this book as it has a bunch of my favorite elements. The story flows so nicely, it kept me engaged throughout with its suspense and drama. It's definitely on the darker side as the heroine, Tate is in an abusive relationship. Both her father and her husband are awful men who work together and some of those scenes had me cringing. Along the way, Tate works with the FBI to try to bring down her husband and father and meets the hero, Rylan. They were amazing together! There was no insta anything in this book. The build up of trust and intimacy took a while, but when it did happen it was worth the wait!! I will be reading the second book in this series!
March 13, 2017
4.5 STARS!!
Red is SM West's debut novel. I'm so excited for more to come by this author!!!
Red is a romantic suspense which is a genre I don't read very often, but after reading a couple of pages, I remember why I used to love it.
The beginning of this book totally sucked me in. I felt every emotion - happiness and light, then confusion, followed by horror and hate. Ugh. I just wanted to jump into the story and get rid of all of the bad guys.
What I love about this book.
~ The writing. SM West is so descriptive, she paints the scene so vividly I feel like I'm in it myself.
~ Well thought out plot. This isn't just romance. It's about revenge and survival. Falling in love again wasn't a part of the plan, but it happened anyways.
~ Likeable secondary characters - GIVE ME MORE. I can't wait to read the next books in this series.
Bottom line: great debut!!!
This author has so much more in store for us. I can't wait to watch her grow as a writer and spread her wings.
Bring it, Mrs. West. BRING IT!!!
Red is SM West's debut novel. I'm so excited for more to come by this author!!!
Red is a romantic suspense which is a genre I don't read very often, but after reading a couple of pages, I remember why I used to love it.
The beginning of this book totally sucked me in. I felt every emotion - happiness and light, then confusion, followed by horror and hate. Ugh. I just wanted to jump into the story and get rid of all of the bad guys.
What I love about this book.
~ The writing. SM West is so descriptive, she paints the scene so vividly I feel like I'm in it myself.
~ Well thought out plot. This isn't just romance. It's about revenge and survival. Falling in love again wasn't a part of the plan, but it happened anyways.
~ Likeable secondary characters - GIVE ME MORE. I can't wait to read the next books in this series.
Bottom line: great debut!!!
This author has so much more in store for us. I can't wait to watch her grow as a writer and spread her wings.
Bring it, Mrs. West. BRING IT!!!
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