Luckily, for us all, it is time for my latest book review in Lyz Kelley's Elkridge Series. If you have been paying attention, you would know that this is my fifth review. The entire series is six books, so that means we only have one more book left. I am so saddened by this, but I am simultaneously overjoyed. It means that we are so very close to the huge reveal, of our mysteries solution. I have been paying close attention, and I have a good idea about what happened, to cause Sheriff Sam's murder. I do not know the murderer yet, but given a few more hints, I feel I may know, before the truth is revealed.
So, just like the four previous book, Exposed was a real page turner. It was entertaining and captivated me. Admittedly, I was a bit taken back in the very beginning. As soon as I knew Ashley's friend Gwen, was actually going to end up in a relationship with her Dad (Dale), I was a bit uneasy. It wasn't because of the fourteen year age difference, it was because Dale's daughter was her best friend. Once it was clear Ashley was happy for them, I was overjoyed for them.
When we read Ashley and Chase's story, we weren't given the best view of Dale. There were moments when he seemed like a real jerk. Of course, by the end, once we knew more of the story, we realized that poor communication had led to a lot of misunderstandings. So, of course, warming up to Dale did take a little bit. Lyz did an amazing job developing his character, and just like with all the Elkridge men before him, I totally ended up being a huge fan of Dale.
Through the previous books, we had gotten to know Gwen quite a bit, and it was obvious she had a story to tell. We finally learn her story in this latest book, and it was a magnificent story. Full of sadness, happiness, mystery, and drama. You add in Dale and a bit of romance, and you have an excellent book.
So, please trust me, and go read this book. Read it now. Unless you have not read the previous books, then read them first. However, each of these books can easily be read as standalone stories. I think it is important to know, that each book has not only deepened our knowledge of Elkridge, and its residents, but have given us clues to solve the mystery around Sheriff Sam's murder. So, though you can read as many or as few as you want, and be completely entertained by each, I strongly recommend reading them all.
At this point, with only one book left, I do feel I have a decent idea of what is going on in Elkridge to lead to Sheriff Sam being murdered. I also feel that I have a good idea of a few people who are involved. One of which, I am secretly hoping I am wrong, but I really do think I am right. If you have been reading along with me, I would love to hear your thoughts! I wonder how in sync our thoughts are!? So, please reach out to me! I would love to discuss this series with you!!
Just know that Exposed will really change your opinion of Gwen. I loved her character, and after reading this book, I REALLY loved her. I also think by the end, Dale will have won you completely over, no matter how much you previously disliked him.
Exposed will shock you, make you laugh, make you cry, and probably infuriate you a bit. Lyz did an amazing job weaving a wonderful love story, with two unlikely people at its heart. This book is definitely a must read. As I have said, this entire series is a must read series, and this book did not disappoint.
So, I will see you soon, with my review of the final Elkridge book, and hopefully we can discuss our feelings on the outcome of the mystery around Sheriff Sam's murder. Until then, read these books!!
Continue on to find out about this book, Author Lyz Kelley, a giveaway, and how to get these books for yourself!!
A woman in hiding. A past to resolve. A Marine to the rescue.
When a broken water pipe destroys Gwen Keebler’s thrift store, she’s convinced her day can’t get worse. But that same day, her blackmailing ex-fiancé finds her living in the small Colorado town of Elkridge. She’s ready to pack up and hit the road again when a former Marine provides options.
Former Brigadier General Dale Bryant has returned home to repair his relationship with his daughter, and his broken, widowed heart. The last thing he expects is to rescue Gwen as well. The sexy store owner caught his attention the first time they met, but he’s fourteen years older, and she’s his daughter’s friend.
Yet to truly save Gwen, the widower realizes he must let her go. Will Gwen run again, or will she face her past and fight for Dale?
Award-winning, contemporary romance author Lyz Kelley lives in a small community in Colorado with her husband and several four-legged family members. Lyz writes about brave women who have faced extraordinary challenges, and the honorable men who have an enormous capacity to love, even if they may not know it.
A healing love is at the heart of her book series. Creating wounded yet amazing characters—discovering what drives them, frightens them, heals them, makes them laugh—is what gives her joy. Lyz is pleased to share that joy through her masterfully written stories.
To keep tabs on her award-winning novels, connect with Lyz by signing up for her newsletter at LyzKelley.com. Also visit LyzKelleysHeroes.com to join Kelley's Heroes, Lyz's VIP club. Members receive an exclusive copy of A Soldier’s Wife, learn about thoughtful giveaways, and get a sneak peek at upcoming releases. Members may even get the opportunity to receive advanced reader copies. Check out LyzKelley.com for more information.
Why would I want to read the Elkridge Series? Each book in the Elkridge series is a piece to a puzzle—a suspenseful mystery involving the murder of a small-town sheriff. You get six contemporary romance books to figure out the mystery and a bunch of happy ever after (HEA) endings. Two novels in this fiction series—Blinded
Where is Elkridge, Colorado? Elkridge exists only in my mind. On any given day, I can stop at River Creek Café for Jenna's fresh baked cinnamon rolls, or shop for a birthday present at Mara's Blooms, or get my nails done at Kym’s nail salon. Sitting in the park eating lunch, I can watch the kids play and hear the latest gossip from neighbors. Later, if I want, I can stop at Mad Jack’s to hear a local band play and get some dinner. Elkridge is a great small town where the sun shines 360 days a year and people do their best to make ends meet.
Would you tell us about your writing process? It takes me awhile to write each stand-alone story because I am passionate about creating the very best stories for my readers. These contemporary romance books have complex plots and sub-plots and include suspense romance threads, with deep emotional women’s fiction elements, humor and even a bit of quirkiness. I’m so excited to see the 5-star ratings because it means I’ve created the ideal mix to provide readers with a few hours of enjoyment.
Review Giveaway
Other Books in The Series
Where is Elkridge, Colorado? Elkridge exists only in my mind. On any given day, I can stop at River Creek Café for Jenna's fresh baked cinnamon rolls, or shop for a birthday present at Mara's Blooms, or get my nails done at Kym’s nail salon. Sitting in the park eating lunch, I can watch the kids play and hear the latest gossip from neighbors. Later, if I want, I can stop at Mad Jack’s to hear a local band play and get some dinner. Elkridge is a great small town where the sun shines 360 days a year and people do their best to make ends meet.
Would you tell us about your writing process? It takes me awhile to write each stand-alone story because I am passionate about creating the very best stories for my readers. These contemporary romance books have complex plots and sub-plots and include suspense romance threads, with deep emotional women’s fiction elements, humor and even a bit of quirkiness. I’m so excited to see the 5-star ratings because it means I’ve created the ideal mix to provide readers with a few hours of enjoyment.
Review Giveaway
EXPOSED: Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQ)
How did the book EXPOSED come about?
Both Gwen and Dale were secondary characters in previous books. My editor, Faith Freewoman, insisted that I put the characters together. My first thought was, “no, there is too much of an age difference. What would they have in common?” However, I’d recently made the decision to put more diversity into my books—younger, older, black, white, purple…it doesn’t matter. I want to create complex, diverse characters, so I took on the challenge of creating a story for Gwen and Dale.
Why did you make Gwen’s parents wealthy?
Years ago, I saw Into the Wild, a movie about a young man rejecting his wealthy upbringing to live a simpler, more authentic life. It’s a true story, and if you haven’t read the book, or seen the movie, I would recommend it. When I started thinking how Gwen’s a part of Elkridge, I asked myself how her life is/or would be affected by Sheriff Sam’s murder, and wham, there was her story. A woman wanting a normal life, away from greed and corruption, finding happiness in Elkridge, Colorado. How cool is that?
Why are EXPOSED and SPURNED novellas? Why not write full-length books?
Three reasons. First: Writing shorter pieces is hard. Trying to write a full story in such few words is challenging, but I wanted to grow as a writer and take on that challenge. Second: I wanted to honor and meet women’s needs. There are women all over the world wanting short, fulfilling reads. I thought about working women riding the train or taking a bus to work, or those who want good lunchtime reading. I considered new moms wanting an escape while their child is breastfeeding or napping, or they want to pass the time while waiting to pick up their children from school. With these shorter books, I celebrate our differences, and allow all readers, no matter where they are, the chance to be swept away into another world.
Other Books in The Series
What I need you to know... I was given an ARC of Exposed by Lyz Kelley, and was asked to simply give an honest review. I was not paid to give a positive review. Had I disliked the book, I would have told you that. However, thankfully, I loved the book, and really enjoyed reading it!
Wow. Just WOW. As I was reading through your amazing blog post, I started to wonder if you were talking about "my" books. Give me a moment while I sit here on top of the clouds sipping my favorite tea (Mighty Leaf, Vanilla Bean, BTW). I'm a bit weepy. Especially because this morning, I got edits back from my editors. She thinks Rescued, book 6, just might be my best book yet. Then again, writers and editors don't get a say--only the reader's opinions count.
ReplyDeleteI will, however, share a secret...Rescued was hard to write. Plus, I forgot Gus, Joe's adopted dog. How could I forget Gus? Sheesh. Keeping track of all those characters takes an oversized spreadsheet full of stuff to make sure brown eyes don't suddenly turn blue.
Jules, I'd be curious who you think murdered Sheriff Sam. You might be right, but I bet the why will surprise you. September 12th. It will be here before you know it.