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Callahan Brothers #1
Give Him the Slip
They are the Bad Boys of Brazos Bend—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John Callahan.
DEA agent Luke Callahan has suffered one loss too many and a fishing trip with his brothers is just what his broken spirit needs to heal. What he doesn’t need is a gorgeous stowaway harboring secrets and running from killers. Never mind that he does his best work undercover…
Maddie Kincaid is accustomed to trouble, but she’d hoped to leave it behind when she settled in peaceful Brazos Bend. Who would have guessed that helping a gentle old man would land her in the middle of an attempted murder—her own? Now she’s running for her life—straight into the arms of the infamous Luke Callahan.
Lucky for her, he’s deadlier than the men chasing her. Unfortunately for him, protecting her means breaking a vow he holds dear. When the nights heat up and the secrets start to spill, Luke faces a brand new danger—losing the woman he loves. What’s a mad, bad, and lethal Callahan man gonna do?
DEA agent Luke Callahan has suffered one loss too many and a fishing trip with his brothers is just what his broken spirit needs to heal. What he doesn’t need is a gorgeous stowaway harboring secrets and running from killers. Never mind that he does his best work undercover…
Maddie Kincaid is accustomed to trouble, but she’d hoped to leave it behind when she settled in peaceful Brazos Bend. Who would have guessed that helping a gentle old man would land her in the middle of an attempted murder—her own? Now she’s running for her life—straight into the arms of the infamous Luke Callahan.
Lucky for her, he’s deadlier than the men chasing her. Unfortunately for him, protecting her means breaking a vow he holds dear. When the nights heat up and the secrets start to spill, Luke faces a brand new danger—losing the woman he loves. What’s a mad, bad, and lethal Callahan man gonna do?
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 22, 2006
585 people are currently reading
2920 people want to read
About the author
Geralyn Dawson
27 books218 followersGeralyn Dawson is the USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels. She is a three-time finalist for the prestigious Romance Writers' of America's RITA award and a recipient of their Top Ten Favorite Books of the Year award. She received Romantic Times magazine's Career Achievement award and its Reviewer's Choice award. In 2009, the American Library Association named her romantic suspense novel, ALWAYS LOOK TWICE, as one of the top ten romances of the year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
June 17, 2009
5 stars – Romantic Suspense
Top Ten Things I Liked About Give Him the Slip:
1. Three former hell-raiser, bad-boy brothers referred to as the “Holy Terrors of Texas” turned hard-edged military/security men/government agents
2. Devilishly sexy DEA Agent hero Luke “Sin” Callahan
3. Spunky red-headed heroine and secret rock princess Maddie “Baby Dagger” Kincaid
4. A lovable mutt named Knucklehead
5. A goldfish named Oscar
6. Sweet, steamy romance
7. Hilarious dialogue
8. Zany, quirky, dynamic, offbeat Texas characters
9. A madcap drug and stalker plot with a steady dose of suspense
10. Funny, spicy writing
Top Ten Things I Liked About Give Him the Slip:
1. Three former hell-raiser, bad-boy brothers referred to as the “Holy Terrors of Texas” turned hard-edged military/security men/government agents
2. Devilishly sexy DEA Agent hero Luke “Sin” Callahan
3. Spunky red-headed heroine and secret rock princess Maddie “Baby Dagger” Kincaid
4. A lovable mutt named Knucklehead
5. A goldfish named Oscar
6. Sweet, steamy romance
7. Hilarious dialogue
8. Zany, quirky, dynamic, offbeat Texas characters
9. A madcap drug and stalker plot with a steady dose of suspense
10. Funny, spicy writing
September 15, 2008
I enjoyed this romantic suspense novel by Geralyn Dawson very much. It was quite a bit different from the other books I have read by her, and I liked it better. I thought that Luke Callahan was a great hero -one who was a bit on the tortured side - and his brothers sound like they will make great heroes for the other books in the series. Heroine Maddie Kincaid, a girl who has made quite a few bad decisions in the past, was also very likeable.
Maddie Kincaid has sworn off of men and started a business helping senior citizens in a small Texas town. Her three former lovers were all bad news, but the last one caused her to land in terrible trouble. Now, she is in trouble again, all because she cleaned out a lake house for a nice old man. After she panics and leaves town in a rush, one of her clients calls and she blurts out her troubles. He sends her to Louisiana to a DEA agent for help. Arriving at the DEA agent's houseboat to find that no one is at home, Maddie succombs to exhaustion and makes herself at home in one of the beds.
After his partner dies, Luke Callahan quits his job as a DEA agent, not knowing what he will do with the rest of his life. For now, he is going to meet his brother for a few weeks of fishing. Feeling low from attending his partner's funeral, he decides to go ahead and leave even though he has a couple of extra days. Luke travels for a few hours, anchors the boat, and takes a well deserved rest. He is awakened to a female screaming and is astonished to find a stowaway on board. Luke and Maddie distrust one another at first, and when she finally decides to tell him her story, he believes that it is one of his estranged father's tricks to get him to come back home. Luke's father is the client who sent Maddie to what was supposedly a female DEA agent. Deciding to believe her, Luke sets a plan in motion to return Maddie to Texas the next day while keeping her safe. Maddie and Luke are attracted to one another, but they do not act on their desire. When Luke sends Maddie off in the care of someone else the next day, she pleads with him to stay with her, but he refuses.
Luke arrives at the fishing rendevous with his brothers, but feels terribly guilty over leaving Maddie. He tries to contact her, but after not being able to reach her for several days, he goes to his hometown where she lives. Arriving just in time to find that Maddie has been attacked, Luke's protective instincts kick in and he determines to keep her safe. As Luke and Maddie spend time together, their desire for one another increases. They spend what is supposed to be one night of passion together, but when Luke decides to stay at Maddie's house for her protecction, they become more deeply involved. It becomes apparent that Maddie has landed in a very dangerous situation, and Luke must find out who is trying to hurt her while protecting his own heart.
This was a very enjoyable and engrossing book. It had plenty of suspense, as well as a great romance. I liked the characters and the storyline. I am looking forward to reading the other two books in this series.
Maddie Kincaid has sworn off of men and started a business helping senior citizens in a small Texas town. Her three former lovers were all bad news, but the last one caused her to land in terrible trouble. Now, she is in trouble again, all because she cleaned out a lake house for a nice old man. After she panics and leaves town in a rush, one of her clients calls and she blurts out her troubles. He sends her to Louisiana to a DEA agent for help. Arriving at the DEA agent's houseboat to find that no one is at home, Maddie succombs to exhaustion and makes herself at home in one of the beds.
After his partner dies, Luke Callahan quits his job as a DEA agent, not knowing what he will do with the rest of his life. For now, he is going to meet his brother for a few weeks of fishing. Feeling low from attending his partner's funeral, he decides to go ahead and leave even though he has a couple of extra days. Luke travels for a few hours, anchors the boat, and takes a well deserved rest. He is awakened to a female screaming and is astonished to find a stowaway on board. Luke and Maddie distrust one another at first, and when she finally decides to tell him her story, he believes that it is one of his estranged father's tricks to get him to come back home. Luke's father is the client who sent Maddie to what was supposedly a female DEA agent. Deciding to believe her, Luke sets a plan in motion to return Maddie to Texas the next day while keeping her safe. Maddie and Luke are attracted to one another, but they do not act on their desire. When Luke sends Maddie off in the care of someone else the next day, she pleads with him to stay with her, but he refuses.
Luke arrives at the fishing rendevous with his brothers, but feels terribly guilty over leaving Maddie. He tries to contact her, but after not being able to reach her for several days, he goes to his hometown where she lives. Arriving just in time to find that Maddie has been attacked, Luke's protective instincts kick in and he determines to keep her safe. As Luke and Maddie spend time together, their desire for one another increases. They spend what is supposed to be one night of passion together, but when Luke decides to stay at Maddie's house for her protecction, they become more deeply involved. It becomes apparent that Maddie has landed in a very dangerous situation, and Luke must find out who is trying to hurt her while protecting his own heart.
This was a very enjoyable and engrossing book. It had plenty of suspense, as well as a great romance. I liked the characters and the storyline. I am looking forward to reading the other two books in this series.
July 6, 2009
Luke Callahan is my favorite hero. He is the bad boy turned cop, and boy is he is hot! I loved him and Maddie together and I was rooting for them the whole time. There was a period where I wanted to shake Maddie, but it was brief, so I won't put her on the TSTL list.
I LOVE this series! It reminds me of Nora Robert's trilogies where the are three siblings that are very close and involved in all three stories. Thanks ladies to all who pointed me to it! :D
I LOVE this series! It reminds me of Nora Robert's trilogies where the are three siblings that are very close and involved in all three stories. Thanks ladies to all who pointed me to it! :D
January 4, 2012
3.5 of 5 Stars - Also reviewed at: Lady Jayne's Reading Den
Hmm… I’m disappointed to say that Give Him the Slip, the first Callahan Brothers book by Geralyn Dawson did not captivate me the way her Eternity Springs series, written under the pseudonym of Emily March, did. Angel’s Rest, the first book in the Eternity Springs series is John Gabriel Callahan’s (Gabe Callahan’s) story and was one that really grabbed me.
The four Callahan Brothers of Brazos Bend, Texas - Matthew, Mark and Luke (the twins) and John Callahan - were known as the “Holy Terrors” from their mischievous childhood. After their mother died tragically, however, and their father, Branch Callahan, fell into a neglectful depression, they went out of control. A drunken, careless act, in their teens, caused a fire which burned down a factory (the biggest employer) in town. Branch Callahan disowned and banished his sons from their home following that incident.
The four brothers grew up to be worthy men, but they never forgave their father. Not so much for what he did by banishing them when they were young, but for what they felt he didn’t do when their brother John was kidnapped, and which led to his death.
Having read the Eternity Springs series and A Callahan Carol, first, I was surprised that this event regarding John had already occurred from the get-go of the Callahan series. I had been under the impression that readers got a chance to “know” John in this series…which we do, to some extent, through the recollections of his brothers and father.
Maddie "Baby Dagger" Kincaid, whose back-story was sad and made me feel for her, has finally made a home for herself in Brazos Bend. But after discovering some illegal substances in a client’s lake house, another one of her client’s, Branch Callahan, directs her into the path of former DEA agent, Luke “Sin” Callahan.
Sparks flies between Luke and Maddie straight off.
This was an "Okay" Romantic Suspense, for me.
I guess my main issue with the book was that Luke seemed to be quite snappy, at times, and he said some mean things to Maddie, which I didn’t like. He apologised for them pretty much immediately after, and he did have his romantic and sexy moments - Oh, Yeeaahh…Mmm…Bananas… LOL - but some of the things he said were uncalled for, and were more, it seemed to me, him taking out his issues with his father on Maddie.
And Maddie… well, while I also understand her issues and felt for her, her jumping to conclusions did annoy me a bit.
Mind you, I did read this during a heat wave and had been having headaches, so I might have been grumpier and less forgiving that usual. ^_^
I have seen that some GRs friends enjoyed this series more than the Eternity Springs one. I hold a different view…at this stage.
I do really enjoy how this author, in almost every book I’ve read by her, seems to incorporate some adorable animal characters. Her love of animals shines through and as a fellow animal lover I really appreciate it. I loved “Knucklehead” and the parts of the story relating to the “Oscars”. ^_^
My copy of the latest Eternity Springs book by this author, Lover’s Leap, arrived in the mail this morning. I’m excited to read it!!! Looks like the other two books in this series will have to wait a bit.
P.S. This book IS steamier than the Eternity Springs series. ^_^
Luke "Sin" Callahan
Maddie "Baby Dagger" Kincaid
Credits:
My Luke - Dominic Figlio
My Maddie - Alicia Witt
The Callahan Brothers Reading Order:
1. Give Him the Slip – Luke Callahan
2. Never Say Never – Matthew Callahan
3. Always Look Twice – Mark Callahan
Novella: A Callahan Carol
Related: Angel's Rest (#1 Eternity Springs) - John Callahan's Story
DISCLAIMER: I do not hold the copyright to any of the images used in this review. They are posted to add visuals to the review and for fun. If any of these images are yours and you would like me to remove them, please let me know, and I will do so as soon as possible. If I can identify the copyright, I will do so.
July 3, 2009
It may have been me, but it took me a long time to finish this romantic suspense, set in East and West Texas. I even put it down a few times to read other books. My mistake was reading this series backwards...not a good thing to do. :-( I can say that I enjoyed #3 and #2, so was looking forward to #1...
Give Him the Slip was just too light-hearted, loosely written, with a lot of slow parts for me to get hooked into. The characters, Luke and Maddie were okay. Thought Maddie being "Baby Dagger" was kinda dumb. I got frustrated (and tired) with Luke treating his father so poorly, too.
There was an old murder solved that involved the loss of a child, but it wasn't the main theme for the book, so didn't lock it in my "theme-loss of a child" shelf. But, for those who do not care for that in a book, be aware.
As with most first books in a series, Give Him the Slip spent a lot of time setting up the characters for later books. Maybe already reading the next two books is what made it so slow for me. But, even the suspense directly related to this one seemed drawn out.
Thought the writing could have been tightened up and long dialogue that went nowhere could have been edited to help this move along at a faster clip.
Important to read as part of the series because Give Him the Slip explains how Branch Callahan (the father of Matthew, Luke, Mark and John) was thought responsible for the death of the youngest Callahan brother, John.
Give Him the Slip was just too light-hearted, loosely written, with a lot of slow parts for me to get hooked into. The characters, Luke and Maddie were okay. Thought Maddie being "Baby Dagger" was kinda dumb. I got frustrated (and tired) with Luke treating his father so poorly, too.
There was an old murder solved that involved the loss of a child, but it wasn't the main theme for the book, so didn't lock it in my "theme-loss of a child" shelf. But, for those who do not care for that in a book, be aware.
As with most first books in a series, Give Him the Slip spent a lot of time setting up the characters for later books. Maybe already reading the next two books is what made it so slow for me. But, even the suspense directly related to this one seemed drawn out.
Thought the writing could have been tightened up and long dialogue that went nowhere could have been edited to help this move along at a faster clip.
Important to read as part of the series because Give Him the Slip explains how Branch Callahan (the father of Matthew, Luke, Mark and John) was thought responsible for the death of the youngest Callahan brother, John.
June 19, 2009
This one started off with a BANG for me. Maddie channels her inner Stephanie Plum and sneaks onto a houseboat to use the bathroom, go thru the fridge and "borrow" a beer. She falls asleep on the houseboat and is rudely awakened by a naked DEA agent, Luke "Sin" Callahan.
Fireworks commence.
But things sorta fizzled out for me after that. Too many rabbit trails and whodunits. Too many snarls and grunts and crankiness by the hero. I don't think it was the author's fault (?) - my mind is going a million and one places right now with family flying into town for my daughter's Sweet 16 this weekend, soccer camp, last day of school, etc. etc. Still, I was hoping this one could keep my attention. The writing style sorta reminded me of Janet Evanovich, but then the steamy scenes happened and things turned all purple prosey.
Frankly, I'll probably give this one a 2nd chance when my life settles down, but I only read this one so that I could better understand the 2nd one in the series. LOTS of great reviews on that one and I am getting a KICK out of the James Bond references too!
Fireworks commence.
But things sorta fizzled out for me after that. Too many rabbit trails and whodunits. Too many snarls and grunts and crankiness by the hero. I don't think it was the author's fault (?) - my mind is going a million and one places right now with family flying into town for my daughter's Sweet 16 this weekend, soccer camp, last day of school, etc. etc. Still, I was hoping this one could keep my attention. The writing style sorta reminded me of Janet Evanovich, but then the steamy scenes happened and things turned all purple prosey.
Frankly, I'll probably give this one a 2nd chance when my life settles down, but I only read this one so that I could better understand the 2nd one in the series. LOTS of great reviews on that one and I am getting a KICK out of the James Bond references too!
August 23, 2014
I got this book free from the author. This is my honest review.
What happens when two independent people find that sparks fly whenever they're together, and though they both have secrets, they find that they do need each other for life and for love?
Luke, and his brothers, Matt, Mark, and John were know as the "bad boys" of Brazos Bend when they were teen agers. Now, John's murder caused the others to become estranged from their wealthy Dad. They have all become responsible adults, working in different government agencies. For Luke, he's just resigned as a DEA agent after the tragic loss of his partner. He's going off on his large boat for a fishing trip when an unexpected guests shows up asleep in his guest room.
Maggie Kincaid was that "sleeping beauty". She's been living a quiet peaceful life in Brazos Bend, running her business, Home For Now, helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. She has her own notorious and secret past and she's unwittingly gotten herself in deep trouble. She needs Luke's help but he wants no part in more investigations. The problem is that just looking at Maggie is like being drawn to a magnet. Sometimes they stick like magnets, but they also find themselves pushed apart like magnets in reverse polarity. But Maggie's life may just depend upon Luke's help.
This is a roller coaster ride of a romantic mystery. The characters are complicated but so endearing. I soon became very involved with Luke and Maggie, finding myself crying for them one minute and yelling at then another minute. The mystery came with lots of clues but I was guessing until the very satisfying surprise ending. I was left wanting more!! Luckily, Emily March will soon have two books coming out continuing the stories of Matt and Mark.
Merged review:
I got this book free from the author. This is my honest review.
What happens when two independent people find that sparks fly whenever they're together, and though they both have secrets, they find that they do need each other for life and for love?
Luke, and his brothers, Matt, Mark, and John were know as the "bad boys" of Brazos Bend when they were teen agers. Now, John's murder caused the others to become estranged from their wealthy Dad. They have all become responsible adults, working in different government agencies. For Luke, he's just resigned as a DEA agent after the tragic loss of his partner. He's going off on his large boat for a fishing trip when an unexpected guests shows up asleep in his guest room.
Maggie Kincaid was that "sleeping beauty". She's been living a quiet peaceful life in Brazos Bend, running her business, Home For Now, helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. She has her own notorious and secret past and she's unwittingly gotten herself in deep trouble. She needs Luke's help but he wants no part in more investigations. The problem is that just looking at Maggie is like being drawn to a magnet. Sometimes they stick like magnets, but they also find themselves pushed apart like magnets in reverse polarity. But Maggie's life may just depend upon Luke's help.
This is a roller coaster ride of a romantic mystery. The characters are complicated but so endearing. I soon became very involved with Luke and Maggie, finding myself crying for them one minute and yelling at then another minute. The mystery came with lots of clues but I was guessing until the very satisfying surprise ending. I was left wanting more!! Luckily, Emily March will soon have two books coming out continuing the stories of Matt and Mark.
What happens when two independent people find that sparks fly whenever they're together, and though they both have secrets, they find that they do need each other for life and for love?
Luke, and his brothers, Matt, Mark, and John were know as the "bad boys" of Brazos Bend when they were teen agers. Now, John's murder caused the others to become estranged from their wealthy Dad. They have all become responsible adults, working in different government agencies. For Luke, he's just resigned as a DEA agent after the tragic loss of his partner. He's going off on his large boat for a fishing trip when an unexpected guests shows up asleep in his guest room.
Maggie Kincaid was that "sleeping beauty". She's been living a quiet peaceful life in Brazos Bend, running her business, Home For Now, helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. She has her own notorious and secret past and she's unwittingly gotten herself in deep trouble. She needs Luke's help but he wants no part in more investigations. The problem is that just looking at Maggie is like being drawn to a magnet. Sometimes they stick like magnets, but they also find themselves pushed apart like magnets in reverse polarity. But Maggie's life may just depend upon Luke's help.
This is a roller coaster ride of a romantic mystery. The characters are complicated but so endearing. I soon became very involved with Luke and Maggie, finding myself crying for them one minute and yelling at then another minute. The mystery came with lots of clues but I was guessing until the very satisfying surprise ending. I was left wanting more!! Luckily, Emily March will soon have two books coming out continuing the stories of Matt and Mark.
Merged review:
I got this book free from the author. This is my honest review.
What happens when two independent people find that sparks fly whenever they're together, and though they both have secrets, they find that they do need each other for life and for love?
Luke, and his brothers, Matt, Mark, and John were know as the "bad boys" of Brazos Bend when they were teen agers. Now, John's murder caused the others to become estranged from their wealthy Dad. They have all become responsible adults, working in different government agencies. For Luke, he's just resigned as a DEA agent after the tragic loss of his partner. He's going off on his large boat for a fishing trip when an unexpected guests shows up asleep in his guest room.
Maggie Kincaid was that "sleeping beauty". She's been living a quiet peaceful life in Brazos Bend, running her business, Home For Now, helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. She has her own notorious and secret past and she's unwittingly gotten herself in deep trouble. She needs Luke's help but he wants no part in more investigations. The problem is that just looking at Maggie is like being drawn to a magnet. Sometimes they stick like magnets, but they also find themselves pushed apart like magnets in reverse polarity. But Maggie's life may just depend upon Luke's help.
This is a roller coaster ride of a romantic mystery. The characters are complicated but so endearing. I soon became very involved with Luke and Maggie, finding myself crying for them one minute and yelling at then another minute. The mystery came with lots of clues but I was guessing until the very satisfying surprise ending. I was left wanting more!! Luckily, Emily March will soon have two books coming out continuing the stories of Matt and Mark.
January 3, 2009
#1 Callahan Brothers - Sexy Romantic Suspense
Very enjoyable series debut featuring the Callahan brothers of Brazos Bend, Texas.
Luke "Sin" Callahan casts off from the marina on a peaceful fishing trip, only to be startled by an unexpected on board guest. Maddie Kincaid boarded his houseboat and fallen asleep while looking for a friend. A female friend.
Maddie's got big trouble. Her responsible and calm life has been uprooted when she finds a stash of drugs, and now she's on the run.
DEA Agent Luke wants nothing to do with Maddie and her mystery, but her smarts, determination and charm draw him in.
I liked Maddie a lot -- a strong, sensible woman, owns her own business, no wishy washy shrinking violet is she! Thank you, author!
Luke is a strong, hunky guy, but has a good heart. Luke has lots of family of origin issues (similar to a lit keg of dynamite) to deal with, which add depth and interest.
I'll definitely be reading more of this smart, sexy mystery series!
Very enjoyable series debut featuring the Callahan brothers of Brazos Bend, Texas.
Luke "Sin" Callahan casts off from the marina on a peaceful fishing trip, only to be startled by an unexpected on board guest. Maddie Kincaid boarded his houseboat and fallen asleep while looking for a friend. A female friend.
Maddie's got big trouble. Her responsible and calm life has been uprooted when she finds a stash of drugs, and now she's on the run.
DEA Agent Luke wants nothing to do with Maddie and her mystery, but her smarts, determination and charm draw him in.
I liked Maddie a lot -- a strong, sensible woman, owns her own business, no wishy washy shrinking violet is she! Thank you, author!
Luke is a strong, hunky guy, but has a good heart. Luke has lots of family of origin issues (similar to a lit keg of dynamite) to deal with, which add depth and interest.
I'll definitely be reading more of this smart, sexy mystery series!
April 1, 2015
First in the Brazos Bend series about the Callahan Brothers by Geralyn Dawson. Maddie "Baby Dagger" Kincaid is the daughter of a rock star and just wanted a normal life so she settled in Brazos Bend, Texas. She ends up having to run for her life and encounters Luke Callahan. Wonderful balance of romance and suspense. Such a fun and delightful read.
April 26, 2015
Very good story. Maddie runs a business helping senior citizens, and on one of her jobs comes across some drug related mushrooms. Fearing the consequences, she takes off, and is sent looking for help by another one of her clients. She ends up with ex-DEA agent Luke Callahan, who really wants to leave it all behind and go fishing. Much as he wants to, he can't just walk away from a woman in distress.
I liked Maddie and Luke. They have a magnetic relationship that both pulls them together and pushes them apart. Maddie is the only child of a pair of rock stars. She hated the lifestyle she grew up in, and only wanted a chance to put down roots and have a normal life. She has found that life in Brazos Bend. She has also sworn off relationships for awhile, having been burned by three separate bad ones. She is attracted to Luke immediately, but resistant about getting involved. She's also independent and sassy and doesn't just give in to Luke's directives.
Luke is a man who is at a crossroads in his life. He and his brothers had been real hell raisers when they were younger. After an event that could have been tragic, their father threw them out to make their own ways in the world. Luke ended up becoming a DEA agent, but after the recent death of his partner, for which he blamed himself, he has quit his job. When Maddie first appears on his boat, he thinks her appearance is an attempt by his father to get him back home. Once he realizes she's really in trouble, he's willing to help to a certain point. He's really attracted to her, and wants some time with her, but her connection to his hometown is a sticking point.
Their initial meeting on the boat was funny and intense. There was a lot of mistrust on both sides that they had to work through. It was interesting to see Luke try to forget her once they dealt with the mushrooms, and how he just couldn't get her off his mind. I loved seeing him show up just in time to help her, and realize that there is more going on than just the mushrooms. His protective instincts kick in and clash with her independence, and the heat between them continues to build. As they're thrown together to keep her safe and try to get to the bottom of who is after her, they are given the chance to get to know each other better. Maddie discovers that there is a romantic and sensitive man inside the tough guy that Luke shows to the rest of the world. She tries hard not to fall for that man, but it's a losing battle. Her heart wants to believe that they have a future, but her head knows that he'll never be able to settle down with her. At the same time, Luke finds himself with feelings for Maddie that he's never had for anyone else. He can't admit to them, and when something happens to Maddie he feels it is his fault and just another reason for him to leave her alone. I loved the ending and how Maddie stood up for what she wanted. I really liked seeing her make Luke face his fear.
Luke's issues with his father are a huge part of who he has become and his reluctance to return to Brazos Bend. As the book went on and more was revealed about their relationship, it got really complicated. I could see the issue from both sides and it's one that isn't an easy fix. Maddie is caught in the middle and tries to bring them together.
The mystery/suspense was really good. It was interesting to see the progression of the mystery as it led past the mushrooms and into something more involved. I also liked seeing the effect Luke's involvement had on various people in Brazos Bend. I really loved the conversation between him and his high school friends and his surprise at what they had to say. As the investigation went on, the danger to Maddie increased. The final confrontation was intense, and I was surprised by who was behind the trouble. I liked having Luke's brothers involved, and look forward to reading their stories.
I liked Maddie and Luke. They have a magnetic relationship that both pulls them together and pushes them apart. Maddie is the only child of a pair of rock stars. She hated the lifestyle she grew up in, and only wanted a chance to put down roots and have a normal life. She has found that life in Brazos Bend. She has also sworn off relationships for awhile, having been burned by three separate bad ones. She is attracted to Luke immediately, but resistant about getting involved. She's also independent and sassy and doesn't just give in to Luke's directives.
Luke is a man who is at a crossroads in his life. He and his brothers had been real hell raisers when they were younger. After an event that could have been tragic, their father threw them out to make their own ways in the world. Luke ended up becoming a DEA agent, but after the recent death of his partner, for which he blamed himself, he has quit his job. When Maddie first appears on his boat, he thinks her appearance is an attempt by his father to get him back home. Once he realizes she's really in trouble, he's willing to help to a certain point. He's really attracted to her, and wants some time with her, but her connection to his hometown is a sticking point.
Their initial meeting on the boat was funny and intense. There was a lot of mistrust on both sides that they had to work through. It was interesting to see Luke try to forget her once they dealt with the mushrooms, and how he just couldn't get her off his mind. I loved seeing him show up just in time to help her, and realize that there is more going on than just the mushrooms. His protective instincts kick in and clash with her independence, and the heat between them continues to build. As they're thrown together to keep her safe and try to get to the bottom of who is after her, they are given the chance to get to know each other better. Maddie discovers that there is a romantic and sensitive man inside the tough guy that Luke shows to the rest of the world. She tries hard not to fall for that man, but it's a losing battle. Her heart wants to believe that they have a future, but her head knows that he'll never be able to settle down with her. At the same time, Luke finds himself with feelings for Maddie that he's never had for anyone else. He can't admit to them, and when something happens to Maddie he feels it is his fault and just another reason for him to leave her alone. I loved the ending and how Maddie stood up for what she wanted. I really liked seeing her make Luke face his fear.
Luke's issues with his father are a huge part of who he has become and his reluctance to return to Brazos Bend. As the book went on and more was revealed about their relationship, it got really complicated. I could see the issue from both sides and it's one that isn't an easy fix. Maddie is caught in the middle and tries to bring them together.
The mystery/suspense was really good. It was interesting to see the progression of the mystery as it led past the mushrooms and into something more involved. I also liked seeing the effect Luke's involvement had on various people in Brazos Bend. I really loved the conversation between him and his high school friends and his surprise at what they had to say. As the investigation went on, the danger to Maddie increased. The final confrontation was intense, and I was surprised by who was behind the trouble. I liked having Luke's brothers involved, and look forward to reading their stories.
September 21, 2014
Just finished this book. It was great! Luke aka Sin was so damn hot! Wow.... The bad boy turned good ( kinda) *wink wink** ... Luke is just so........uhhhhh!! Ok so in the beginning he has a chip on his shoulder and man the issues that Luke and his brothers have with their father broke my heart. I wanted to hate his father but in the end my heart just wasn't into it. I felt bad for them both. OMG who did not love Luke's stray dog Knucklehead?? I loved him!
There was a lot of mystery in this one and just when I thought I had it right I was wrong. Of course by the end I was happy I figured it out. Maddie was so sweet. I seriously enjoyed her character. Yes she is a rock star's princess. But its not like that is what she wants. She just wants a normal life. Not to be known as "Baby Dagger". Seems to me that the poor girl couldn't catch a break, at least until she met
Luke.
I have to say at one point Luke creates a romantic night for Maddie since she has never been romanced before. WOW!!!! That had to have been the most romantic night that I have ever read about or damn near close. There was so much thought put into it , that it just blew me away. I would cry too if someone did that for me. This book had me hooked from the beginning. The mushroom thing at first was kinda weird and funny but in the end the way it turned out was great. Ok so my little cheerleader in me was totally cheering Maddie on in the end when she went back to the boat. I was so proud of her! I was all that's right Maddie you tell him !! Give him hell!! LMAO.... Don't take no for an answer! lol Cant wait to read the next one.
There was a lot of mystery in this one and just when I thought I had it right I was wrong. Of course by the end I was happy I figured it out. Maddie was so sweet. I seriously enjoyed her character. Yes she is a rock star's princess. But its not like that is what she wants. She just wants a normal life. Not to be known as "Baby Dagger". Seems to me that the poor girl couldn't catch a break, at least until she met
Luke.
I have to say at one point Luke creates a romantic night for Maddie since she has never been romanced before. WOW!!!! That had to have been the most romantic night that I have ever read about or damn near close. There was so much thought put into it , that it just blew me away. I would cry too if someone did that for me. This book had me hooked from the beginning. The mushroom thing at first was kinda weird and funny but in the end the way it turned out was great. Ok so my little cheerleader in me was totally cheering Maddie on in the end when she went back to the boat. I was so proud of her! I was all that's right Maddie you tell him !! Give him hell!! LMAO.... Don't take no for an answer! lol Cant wait to read the next one.
May 18, 2017
The author slipped stowaway, Maddie Kincaid, on board the good ship "Lil' Misbehavin II". This storyline fantasy waltzed down the aisle to, in this case, an inconceivable, "lust at first sight" romance. A love-hate, sophomoric love story ensued, garnished with gobs and gobs of out-of-place, sexual innuendos and ceaseless dramas. The storyline was plagued by weak character development and many tiring redundancies. The author churned out the next three installments, in a matter of only a few short months. It was no wonder why this first in the series of the Callahan Brothers achieved no depth - no structure. Based on this observation, I would not be inclined to recommend this series.
August 1, 2009
I love this author - have for years - and she did not disappoint me with this book, first in the Callahgan Brothers series. Rarely does Ms. Dawson use the Stupid Misunderstanding device, which I so appreciate. I also like the way she develops a closeness between her two lead characters, and yet they each have people who are important in their lives, who are also worked naturally into the plot. Now I hope that I already have book #2 here in my TBR closet...
March 30, 2012
3.5 stars
I really liked this one. It was fun, had good characters and a nice mix of romance and suspense. I'm looking forward to reading about the other brothers, so I'll definitely continue with the series.
I really liked this one. It was fun, had good characters and a nice mix of romance and suspense. I'm looking forward to reading about the other brothers, so I'll definitely continue with the series.
April 13, 2016
It was okay.
I was not inspired to read the rest of the series.
I was not inspired to read the rest of the series.
June 15, 2017
Maddie Kincaid was running for her life. She was told to find Terri, on a yacht in another city, for help. But nobody was there when she finally arrived. Exhausted, she fell asleep in one of the bedrooms. Luke Callahan needed to get away for a while so he headed out on his boat to meet with his brothers for a fishing trip. He was surprised to find Maddie on board and even more concerned when he found out why she was there.
Maddie had had quite a life. She was the daughter of a famous rock star and was known as Baby Daggar. It sounds like a great life that everyone would want, but she didn't like being in the public eye all the time, so she ran away several years ago. She moved to a small town and changed her name. Maggie was happy in her new life with her business helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. Everything was going great until she tried to help one of the seniors by getting rid of a bunch of dried mushrooms. A bunch being $4 million worth. Hence the running for her life part. The real owners of the drugs were trying to kill her.
The reason she was told to go to Terri was that Terri's roommate was Luke, a DEA agent with many years of undercover experience. You can imagine how he freaked out when Maggie told him that she threw out some of the mushrooms because they wouldn't all fit in her car.
This was an incredible romantic suspense. It had everything - mystery, romance, sex, a couple of pets, humor and great characters.
Maddie had had quite a life. She was the daughter of a famous rock star and was known as Baby Daggar. It sounds like a great life that everyone would want, but she didn't like being in the public eye all the time, so she ran away several years ago. She moved to a small town and changed her name. Maggie was happy in her new life with her business helping old and infirm people remain in their homes. Everything was going great until she tried to help one of the seniors by getting rid of a bunch of dried mushrooms. A bunch being $4 million worth. Hence the running for her life part. The real owners of the drugs were trying to kill her.
The reason she was told to go to Terri was that Terri's roommate was Luke, a DEA agent with many years of undercover experience. You can imagine how he freaked out when Maggie told him that she threw out some of the mushrooms because they wouldn't all fit in her car.
This was an incredible romantic suspense. It had everything - mystery, romance, sex, a couple of pets, humor and great characters.
June 1, 2018
Loved it
Murders, mystery and romance. Quick read. Would like to see the story continued with a girl for Matt and his brother
Murders, mystery and romance. Quick read. Would like to see the story continued with a girl for Matt and his brother
August 21, 2014
Emily March, author ... what more can be said ... She is one of my special favorite authors and I just finished reading her newly released book, "Luke ... The Callahan Brothers" ... originally titled "Give Him the Slip" written under the pen name of Geralyn Dawson in 2006. This story speaks about the Callahan brothers, Matt, Mark, Luke and John of Brazos Bend, Texas.
The first book is about Luke. I was hooked on this author before and now can't wait to read the rest of this series ... What a story ... it's a romance, it's a mystery ... and ... it keeps you on pins and needles as you try to figure out how it will end. There are many twists and turns about who the true villain is and he/she is not revealed until near the very end.
I most enjoyed the realization of both Luke and Maddie of what love is and how to take the risk of sharing their love and lives together.
I look forward to the next book to be released in this series ... Matt's story ... These stories are part of the background for her "Eternity Springs" series written many years later.
The first book is about Luke. I was hooked on this author before and now can't wait to read the rest of this series ... What a story ... it's a romance, it's a mystery ... and ... it keeps you on pins and needles as you try to figure out how it will end. There are many twists and turns about who the true villain is and he/she is not revealed until near the very end.
I most enjoyed the realization of both Luke and Maddie of what love is and how to take the risk of sharing their love and lives together.
I look forward to the next book to be released in this series ... Matt's story ... These stories are part of the background for her "Eternity Springs" series written many years later.
August 1, 2015
Were I to describe this novel in one word, that word would be priceless. March has created a comical yet sweet & sassy story that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. She develops the town of Brazos Bend in such a manner that readers are not only able to picture it, but feel as if they’ve been invited into the town that is the backdrop for her captivating tale. The combination of romance & sass, old grudges & new beginning, action & suspense is eloquently and memorably done.
March definitely had me in stitches with her characters’ antics. At the same time, the emotion and heartache that they put in to all aspects of their lives was breathtaking. It all combined into characters that you can’t help but fall for. I appreciated how we get to know a number of individuals from the town, not just the main characters. The welcoming, hometown feel definitely added to this story for me.
I don’t know how I’ve never read this author’s work before, but I’ll definitely be reading all I can get my hands on in the future.
March definitely had me in stitches with her characters’ antics. At the same time, the emotion and heartache that they put in to all aspects of their lives was breathtaking. It all combined into characters that you can’t help but fall for. I appreciated how we get to know a number of individuals from the town, not just the main characters. The welcoming, hometown feel definitely added to this story for me.
I don’t know how I’ve never read this author’s work before, but I’ll definitely be reading all I can get my hands on in the future.
February 7, 2010
When Maddie Kincaid arrives on his yacht unexpectedly, Luke Callahan is shocked and disbelieving of her story. Drugs and murder in his small home town - unbelievable. Maddie works her way into his heart though and he follows her back home to protect her from whatever forces are at work in Brazos Bend. The sexual tension between Maddie and Luke is intense and the sex is HOT. Luke is fighting moving back to the town his estranged father controls. For many reasons, none of his sons will speak to Branch and want nothing to do with him or Brazos Bend. Maddie has her hands full trying to bring Luke and his father back together as well as keeping Luke in town.
I very much enjoyed the Callahan boys and since I read the second book in the series years ago (Matt's story) and don't remember it at all, I might have to read it again before I go on to Mark's story. These are seriously hot bad boys but with a tender hidden romantic streak a mile wide which makes for great reading.
I very much enjoyed the Callahan boys and since I read the second book in the series years ago (Matt's story) and don't remember it at all, I might have to read it again before I go on to Mark's story. These are seriously hot bad boys but with a tender hidden romantic streak a mile wide which makes for great reading.
June 14, 2013
This was a fun ride with interesting characters.
What I enjoyed:
* Maddie - poor girl has had a crazy life, but built something she could be proud of. Her secret is interesting and I like her spunk.
* Luke - other than his father issues, he is just about perfect.
* Poor Oscar...
What could have been better:
*
What I enjoyed:
* Maddie - poor girl has had a crazy life, but built something she could be proud of. Her secret is interesting and I like her spunk.
* Luke - other than his father issues, he is just about perfect.
* Poor Oscar...
What could have been better:
*
December 30, 2016
Although I had read this book years ago, I decided to listen to the audio version, so this review will be about the audible version only. The story is still as good as ever, but I had a few issues with the narrator. Most of the time I really didn't mind his voice, but I actually think this would have been better with dual narration. The male narrator had a very deep voice and even when it worked with Luke and the other male characters, and it didn't always work with them either, it really didn't work for Maddie or the other female characters. I can't put my finger on exactly what bothered me about the narrator but personally he just didn't always work with me.
June 26, 2013
This book so addicting..Sizzling, funny and plot twist... I LOVED IT
maddie is a very cute woman, shes brave, independent, sexy as hell ..poor thing, she always had bad situation accidently through her life but shes survived it well..
luke is bad boy cop , alpha , sexy and smart..hes very smitten with maddie..hes in love with her all the way
sexy book and cant wait to read callahan brothers next series
maddie is a very cute woman, shes brave, independent, sexy as hell ..poor thing, she always had bad situation accidently through her life but shes survived it well..
luke is bad boy cop , alpha , sexy and smart..hes very smitten with maddie..hes in love with her all the way
sexy book and cant wait to read callahan brothers next series
August 25, 2009
This was one of the best 1st books of a series that I have ever read. Both the hero and heroine were great and very likable.
Luke "Sin" Callahan is the perfect “bad” boy. His steam factor is off the charts. I am so glad that Maddie didn't let the trouble of her past relationships cloud her feelings for Luke. The suspense aspect of this book was also very good.
Luke "Sin" Callahan is the perfect “bad” boy. His steam factor is off the charts. I am so glad that Maddie didn't let the trouble of her past relationships cloud her feelings for Luke. The suspense aspect of this book was also very good.
September 19, 2014
I originally picked this up because I wanted to read the backstory for Emily March's (aka Geralyn Dawson) Eternity Springs series, they of the gorgeous covers.
This actually turned out to be pretty good with a nice balance of emotional story and intriguing romantic suspense. And two more Callahan brothers to go to round out the trilogy and the segue to Eternity Springs.
3.5 - 4 stars.
This actually turned out to be pretty good with a nice balance of emotional story and intriguing romantic suspense. And two more Callahan brothers to go to round out the trilogy and the segue to Eternity Springs.
3.5 - 4 stars.
November 19, 2017
An awesome read!
I love Emily March's writing. Luke is fun,sexy,engaging and overall a delight. I laughed,I sighed and I smiled. I am eager now to read Matt,Mark and the Christmas story. I highly recommend Luke if you want a fun easy read with a touch of mystery.
I love Emily March's writing. Luke is fun,sexy,engaging and overall a delight. I laughed,I sighed and I smiled. I am eager now to read Matt,Mark and the Christmas story. I highly recommend Luke if you want a fun easy read with a touch of mystery.
wish-list
May 31, 2011related to Emily March Eternity Springs series
January 6, 2024
What about the red strappy Italian heels😭😭
May 26, 2017
I picked up this book because I am a fan of Emily March’s Eternity Spring Series, which is, in my opinion, one of the best romance novel series out there. So I began reading this book with high hopes.
Luke by Emily March begins interesting enough, and by that I mean, that starts with enough tension and action to keep me interested, but not so much that I was eager to get back into every time I put the book down. Thankfully, that changed after about a quarter into the book, and it actually got quite entertaining, so I am glad I stuck with it.
Maddie – not Maggie, as she is quite eager to point out – has quite a strange, and fantastical (what felt to me a little forced, and cringe-worthy) background story that “explains” a lot about her actions, and reactions toward Luke (the main male character. He, on the other hand, is a lot easier to like and to connect with. His motives and reasons behind doing what he is doing are clear. He mourns the death of a friend, which is never easy.
The chemistry – almost instant between Luke and Maddie, is real, which is one of the reasons I continued reading the book. I also liked the dog that was thrown into the mix, but I must say even my own dogs would have made better detection dogs than this one (I can not write any more about that situation without spoiling parts of the book).
Maddie longing for a real home, somewhere to settle were also very understandable, considering the above-mentioned background she had to endure, which in turn allowed me to emotionally connect with her. Exploiting that, was truly well-done by Emily March.
Overall, this novel was entertaining – once you make it past the first few pages – and had everything I like within a suspenseful romance.
I do have to say that I like the Author’s Eternity Springs novels a lot better.
Luke by Emily March begins interesting enough, and by that I mean, that starts with enough tension and action to keep me interested, but not so much that I was eager to get back into every time I put the book down. Thankfully, that changed after about a quarter into the book, and it actually got quite entertaining, so I am glad I stuck with it.
Maddie – not Maggie, as she is quite eager to point out – has quite a strange, and fantastical (what felt to me a little forced, and cringe-worthy) background story that “explains” a lot about her actions, and reactions toward Luke (the main male character. He, on the other hand, is a lot easier to like and to connect with. His motives and reasons behind doing what he is doing are clear. He mourns the death of a friend, which is never easy.
The chemistry – almost instant between Luke and Maddie, is real, which is one of the reasons I continued reading the book. I also liked the dog that was thrown into the mix, but I must say even my own dogs would have made better detection dogs than this one (I can not write any more about that situation without spoiling parts of the book).
Maddie longing for a real home, somewhere to settle were also very understandable, considering the above-mentioned background she had to endure, which in turn allowed me to emotionally connect with her. Exploiting that, was truly well-done by Emily March.
Overall, this novel was entertaining – once you make it past the first few pages – and had everything I like within a suspenseful romance.
I do have to say that I like the Author’s Eternity Springs novels a lot better.
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