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Reckless Endangerment
Heroes come in many forms--soldiers who fall and rise, ordinary people doing extraordinary things, women who battle for their marriage, reporters who fight for truth and justice, and men who put it all on the line for the women they love.
Sometimes heroes fall.
Colonel Michael Cedars is a decorated war hero returning home from Afghanistan. Wounded, unsure if he’ll walk again, he’s not sure how he fits in civilian life, and he definitely questions if he wants to remain married to the feisty redhead, Hope Shane.
Hope’s never been one to play it safe. She met the Colonel while working as a war correspondent, fell in love with the man in uniform, watched him get blown up, and isn’t willing to give up on him now.
Back in Denver, Colorado, she’s working as an investigative reporter who becomes entangled in a human trafficking story. As the danger of her story intensifies, Hope and Michael are tested more than they ever imagined. Will Michael be able to see beyond what he’s lost to embrace what remains? Is he still the man she married or has he become a liability that could get her killed? Is he still the hero she claims him to be? Will her reckless pursuit of justice endanger the life they’ve pieced together?
Sometimes heroes fall.
Colonel Michael Cedars is a decorated war hero returning home from Afghanistan. Wounded, unsure if he’ll walk again, he’s not sure how he fits in civilian life, and he definitely questions if he wants to remain married to the feisty redhead, Hope Shane.
Hope’s never been one to play it safe. She met the Colonel while working as a war correspondent, fell in love with the man in uniform, watched him get blown up, and isn’t willing to give up on him now.
Back in Denver, Colorado, she’s working as an investigative reporter who becomes entangled in a human trafficking story. As the danger of her story intensifies, Hope and Michael are tested more than they ever imagined. Will Michael be able to see beyond what he’s lost to embrace what remains? Is he still the man she married or has he become a liability that could get her killed? Is he still the hero she claims him to be? Will her reckless pursuit of justice endanger the life they’ve pieced together?
342 pages, ebook
First published April 12, 2013
5 people are currently reading
1147 people want to read
About the author
Amber Lea Easton
34 books178 followers Amber Lea Easton is a multi-published fiction and nonfiction author. For twenty years, she's worked in the fields of journalism and advertising with a brief detour into the financial industry. Although she holds a BA in Communications & Journalism, she is a perpetual student of life who enjoys taking classes on a wide variety of subjects when time allows.
Smart is sexy, according to Easton, which is why she writes about strong female characters who have their flaws and challenges but ultimately persevere. She currently has three romantic suspense novels out in the world, Kiss Me Slowly, Riptide and Reckless Endangerment, and a contemporary romance novella, Anonymity.
Her memoir, Free Fall, released on September 1, 2013, and is dedicated to suicide prevention, awareness, and helping others navigate the dark journey of grief.
In addition to fiction writing, Easton also edits and freelances. She also speaks on subjects ranging from writing to widowhood. Some of her videos on romance writing have appeared on the international Writers & Authors television network. Current radio appearances are linked via this site and her blog Kisses, Caresses & Whispers in the Night.
Easton currently lives with her two teenagers in the Colorado Rocky Mountains where she gives thanks daily for the gorgeous view outside her window. She finds inspiration from traveling, the people she meets, nature and life’s twists and turns. At the end of the day, as long as she's writing, she considers herself to be simply "a lucky lady liv'n the dream."
Smart is sexy, according to Easton, which is why she writes about strong female characters who have their flaws and challenges but ultimately persevere. She currently has three romantic suspense novels out in the world, Kiss Me Slowly, Riptide and Reckless Endangerment, and a contemporary romance novella, Anonymity.
Her memoir, Free Fall, released on September 1, 2013, and is dedicated to suicide prevention, awareness, and helping others navigate the dark journey of grief.
In addition to fiction writing, Easton also edits and freelances. She also speaks on subjects ranging from writing to widowhood. Some of her videos on romance writing have appeared on the international Writers & Authors television network. Current radio appearances are linked via this site and her blog Kisses, Caresses & Whispers in the Night.
Easton currently lives with her two teenagers in the Colorado Rocky Mountains where she gives thanks daily for the gorgeous view outside her window. She finds inspiration from traveling, the people she meets, nature and life’s twists and turns. At the end of the day, as long as she's writing, she considers herself to be simply "a lucky lady liv'n the dream."
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 20, 2013
I don't know where to begin...this book reached inside my heart, grabbed hold and refused to let go. Even now, after reading the words "the end", I'm still wanting more of Hope and Michael's story. It's a very different concept--at least from the books I can recall offhand. I loved the originality of the plot and the characters. I can see this as a movie--hint, hint to anyone out there listening! Hope is the kind of woman who would probably intimidate me in real life--at least at first--but she's also the kind of woman I'd be honored to call a friend. The back cover of this book talks about heroes--and that is a theme that carries throughout the book. This is a timely book--the issues are relevant to today's society--but it didn't feel pushed down our throats. The plot, the characters, the EMOTION blew my mind. This author has definitely made it onto my favorite author's list! I've just read all three of her books in two weeks--lol. I hope there's more to come because this reader is now a fan.
September 26, 2013
I was interested in “Reckless Endangerment” by Amber Lea Easton because of some of her non-fiction work that had quite impressed me and I wanted to see how her talent would show in a different genre.
From the first page is was evident how well Easton can draw her readers into the story and how skilful she creates characters that we instantly will want to know more about. The wounded Afghanistan war veteran Michael and his journalist love interest Hope are far from one dimensional creations and the problems they face in their strange relationship are much more gripping than a mere ‘taming-of-the-shrew’ scenario. Both characters have a lot to keep you interested in them and make you want them to succeed and grow.
Although this book is marketed as romantic suspense it also covers some serious issues, such as people trafficking and post-traumatic stress disorder, adding further depth to a book that is rich in plot and personal conflict already. Nothing prepared me for the literary quality of this novel. Regular romance and suspense fans get more than enough here to be satisfied by the great chemistry between the main characters and the intriguing story lines. However, if you – like myself – want a little bit more out of a book than you will find it in the well-handled and insightful passages about trafficking and PSD, issues that are handled with care rather than in an exploitative or decorative manner.
Easton clearly cares about what she writes and it pays dividends, her book is surprisingly impressive and certainly recommended.
From the first page is was evident how well Easton can draw her readers into the story and how skilful she creates characters that we instantly will want to know more about. The wounded Afghanistan war veteran Michael and his journalist love interest Hope are far from one dimensional creations and the problems they face in their strange relationship are much more gripping than a mere ‘taming-of-the-shrew’ scenario. Both characters have a lot to keep you interested in them and make you want them to succeed and grow.
Although this book is marketed as romantic suspense it also covers some serious issues, such as people trafficking and post-traumatic stress disorder, adding further depth to a book that is rich in plot and personal conflict already. Nothing prepared me for the literary quality of this novel. Regular romance and suspense fans get more than enough here to be satisfied by the great chemistry between the main characters and the intriguing story lines. However, if you – like myself – want a little bit more out of a book than you will find it in the well-handled and insightful passages about trafficking and PSD, issues that are handled with care rather than in an exploitative or decorative manner.
Easton clearly cares about what she writes and it pays dividends, her book is surprisingly impressive and certainly recommended.
May 22, 2013
I'm not very good at writing reviews, but I highly recommend this novel so am giving it my best shot. From the first moment, when the reader meets Colonel Michael Cedars, it's obvious that this is going to be a deeper novel than the typical romantic suspense. It deals with a wounded marine (Michael) and his wife (Hope) who is an investigative reporter involved in a human trafficking story in Colorado. All I can really say is--WOW. This novel blew me away--I even cried at times, becoming so involved with the emotional journey the characters go on--and laughed--and really rooted for them all through the book. I love romantic suspense novels, have read one other from this author that prompted me to read this one (Riptide--LOVE THE ENDING), and am definitely going to look for more from this author.
April 14, 2013
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This book was Ah-Mazing! If I could give it 10 stars I would. Hope and Michael <3 Gosh what an epic story they have. This book is full of action, love, struggles, and mystery. Hope is an Investigative reporter and Michael is a recovering War hero. That right there should give you a heads up to how epic this story is. Every chapter is crammed with major events, but still Amber Easton manages to give you the heart felt character exchanges that make the story beautiful. I seriously could not put it down. Mind Blown.
Each character was well developed and you learned about each one throughout the story. Not only Michael and Hope, but all the supporting characters were very present. This fact enveloped you even more into the story. You are drawn into the drama and mystery right from the start. With Michael being a PITA and Hope being a spitfire this book never lets down. The Ending is perfect as well. I honestly have nothing to say negative at all about this book.
So Go buy it. Its worth it and its ah-mazing. 5 stars for sure. Be sure to review it as well!!!
http://www.facebook.com/novelgrounds
This book was Ah-Mazing! If I could give it 10 stars I would. Hope and Michael <3 Gosh what an epic story they have. This book is full of action, love, struggles, and mystery. Hope is an Investigative reporter and Michael is a recovering War hero. That right there should give you a heads up to how epic this story is. Every chapter is crammed with major events, but still Amber Easton manages to give you the heart felt character exchanges that make the story beautiful. I seriously could not put it down. Mind Blown.
Each character was well developed and you learned about each one throughout the story. Not only Michael and Hope, but all the supporting characters were very present. This fact enveloped you even more into the story. You are drawn into the drama and mystery right from the start. With Michael being a PITA and Hope being a spitfire this book never lets down. The Ending is perfect as well. I honestly have nothing to say negative at all about this book.
So Go buy it. Its worth it and its ah-mazing. 5 stars for sure. Be sure to review it as well!!!
April 24, 2013
Fabulous novel! I didn't want it to end. I started out reading the prequel that the author posted on her website (yes, I'm a fan) so was hooked before reading page one of this new release. The storyline was unexpected...which is refreshing to find in a romantic suspense novel. The story and the characters feel like they've been ripped from the news. Riveting. I liked that the hero (a war vet from Afghanistan, a marine) is partially paralyzed, yet written about as the sexy, smart guy he is. And the heroine--I'd like to have a beer with her sometime. She's the kind of heroine that you root for, cry for, and really feel for throughout the story. The couple is perfect together--their love story feels authentic and bigger than life. They're both heroes...and what a great idea for a story. I'm sure I will read this again and again in the future, it's that kind of story. Once again, this author delivered a blockbuster story that deserves to see the big screen one day. I highly recommend.
April 13, 2013
This is the third book I've read by this author and I wasn't disappointed. Reckless Endangerment was an emotional whirlpool that sucked me in and took my breath away. The love story between Hope and Michael is epic. I love that they start the story as a married couple. Once again, Ms. Easton spins a smart and unique tale that I couldn't put down. I read this in one night! I can't recommend this high enough. Buy this book! If you haven't bought her previous two books, buy them, too! You won't be disappointed. This author is one to watch...I guarantee she's going to be a household name one day. Keep 'em coming, Ms. Easton!
June 25, 2013
Excellent read, great character development, exciting plot--buy it! You won't be disappointed with this novel. The author did a great job handling the PTSD and physical challenges of the story without being overt about it--I mean, not overly "in your face". From the first page, I felt intensely connected to the characters and was pulled into the suspense plot. Great romantic suspense novel, touching love story, and very well done across the board. Like I said, you won't be disappointed, this is a definite "must own" to re-read every now and then.
April 23, 2013
I just finished this latest release by Amber Lea Easton and the word "flawless" comes to mind. This is yet another well developed story with extremely interesting characters to guide you through the plot twists and turns. I am hoping to hear more about Hope and Michael as I doubt either of these 2 characters can stay out of trouble long. I have grown more and more impressed with this author with each release.
May 22, 2013
This is one of those books you know will be on the keeper shelf, one that will be re-read from time to time. The characters came to life from the first page. It's an emotional story, one that made my heart break at times. For a romantic suspense, I felt that the author delivered everything a reader looks for in the genre PLUS some! Excellent read.
April 23, 2013
Wow I just love this author and the way she writes, like the way the couples connect and never give up, none of this don't want to see you etc and then wam back together. I can't wait for her next book ! This is a 10 star for sure
June 25, 2013
Highly recommend--what's not to like? Sexy wounded marine, feisty investigative reporter, a plot that's both highly emotional and suspenseful...MUST READ! That sums it up pretty well. I really enjoyed this story from the fist page to the last.
July 7, 2013
By the end of Reckless Endangerment I can sum it up by saying it's Triple-H......heartbreaking, heartwarming, and heartpounding. It's full of likable and fully fleshed-out characters, realistically depicted issues related to the aftermath of war, and it presented a fast-paced mystery surrounding human trafficking that kept me on the edge of my seat. It shows that atrocities not only occur in faraway lands but outside our front door as well. As two people deal both mentally and physically with the hand war dealt them it's only through love and acceptance that true healing can begin and a HEA can be fully achieved.
Hope Shane gives the impression of being a total badass who can handle any situation. She loves being in the thick of things and is totally dedicated to the causes and few people she cares about. Some might call her cold but she's actually intensely devoted and focused on doing what's right to the exclusion of all else, including her own safety. Her work is the most important thing to her until she met, and secretly married, Colonel Michael Cedars in the middle of the war in Afghanistan. It's in a dark room where they plan for the future and enjoy quiet moments of happiness keeping the war at bay. Their dreams come crashing down as he's severely injured and tries to push her away and deny her existance out of fear. She's a strong-willed woman though who has no intention of giving him up and forces her way back into his life. Her strong outer shell hides her inner turmoil and flashes of PTSD from all the death she's witnessed. I ached to see her moments of weakness as they were so contradictory to how she presents herself. Her latest story puts her right in the thick of a battle at home involving human trafficking that puts her life in jeopardy as well as those around her. Once again Michael's in danger but thankfully they have each other to turn to as the danger is closer than they ever expected. Even though she struggles with survivor's guilt throughout the story she never lets things beat her. No matter how often she's knocked down, she gets right back up to stand by her man and her convictions.
Michael Cedars has always been a man in control, so his paralysis is especially frustrating as he now has little control of anything. As a quadriplegic myself I found his feelings believable and the cycle of emotions he goes through towards acceptance realistic. His own body has betrayed him through its weakness that mentally makes him feel like less than a man. He's used to taking care of others but now must be taken care of. At first he pushes Hope away as he wants her to have someone better than him. Through her support and presence though he realizes he's still the man he was, just a slightly different one, that she needs no matter what. He too can admit that he needs her and wants to fulfill those dreams they once made. He accepts her as she is even as others call her reckless. As they reunite in the home she planned for long ago their connection deepens and the hurts they've buried deep inside slowly heal. Love is a healing balm and leads to an immensely satisfying conclusion.
Hope and Michael are both flawed characters who sometimes hurt each other in their verbal battles. They love each other wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Their love was vital to them both and as the story progressed they realized how much they'd give up to be together. Their journey towards a HEA was heartbreaking at times but ultimately cheer-inducing. The life of a wheelchair user was presented vividly and accurately and pulled no punches in dealing with the physical, mental, and emotional issues of having a body that's no longer yours to control. The sexual aspects were also dealt with sensitively yet believably. The mystery Hope gets caught up in went on a bit too long but definitely kept me on the edge of my seat guessing whodunit due to its numerous twists and turns. The secondary characters were larger than life with each leaving a lasting impression. This story drew me in completely from page one and kept me immersed in its grittiness until the very satisfying end and I wholeheartedly recommend it to others. This was my first time reading a book from this author but her impressive storytelling has me wanting to come back for more and I look forward to her future releases.
Hope Shane gives the impression of being a total badass who can handle any situation. She loves being in the thick of things and is totally dedicated to the causes and few people she cares about. Some might call her cold but she's actually intensely devoted and focused on doing what's right to the exclusion of all else, including her own safety. Her work is the most important thing to her until she met, and secretly married, Colonel Michael Cedars in the middle of the war in Afghanistan. It's in a dark room where they plan for the future and enjoy quiet moments of happiness keeping the war at bay. Their dreams come crashing down as he's severely injured and tries to push her away and deny her existance out of fear. She's a strong-willed woman though who has no intention of giving him up and forces her way back into his life. Her strong outer shell hides her inner turmoil and flashes of PTSD from all the death she's witnessed. I ached to see her moments of weakness as they were so contradictory to how she presents herself. Her latest story puts her right in the thick of a battle at home involving human trafficking that puts her life in jeopardy as well as those around her. Once again Michael's in danger but thankfully they have each other to turn to as the danger is closer than they ever expected. Even though she struggles with survivor's guilt throughout the story she never lets things beat her. No matter how often she's knocked down, she gets right back up to stand by her man and her convictions.
Michael Cedars has always been a man in control, so his paralysis is especially frustrating as he now has little control of anything. As a quadriplegic myself I found his feelings believable and the cycle of emotions he goes through towards acceptance realistic. His own body has betrayed him through its weakness that mentally makes him feel like less than a man. He's used to taking care of others but now must be taken care of. At first he pushes Hope away as he wants her to have someone better than him. Through her support and presence though he realizes he's still the man he was, just a slightly different one, that she needs no matter what. He too can admit that he needs her and wants to fulfill those dreams they once made. He accepts her as she is even as others call her reckless. As they reunite in the home she planned for long ago their connection deepens and the hurts they've buried deep inside slowly heal. Love is a healing balm and leads to an immensely satisfying conclusion.
Hope and Michael are both flawed characters who sometimes hurt each other in their verbal battles. They love each other wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Their love was vital to them both and as the story progressed they realized how much they'd give up to be together. Their journey towards a HEA was heartbreaking at times but ultimately cheer-inducing. The life of a wheelchair user was presented vividly and accurately and pulled no punches in dealing with the physical, mental, and emotional issues of having a body that's no longer yours to control. The sexual aspects were also dealt with sensitively yet believably. The mystery Hope gets caught up in went on a bit too long but definitely kept me on the edge of my seat guessing whodunit due to its numerous twists and turns. The secondary characters were larger than life with each leaving a lasting impression. This story drew me in completely from page one and kept me immersed in its grittiness until the very satisfying end and I wholeheartedly recommend it to others. This was my first time reading a book from this author but her impressive storytelling has me wanting to come back for more and I look forward to her future releases.
July 3, 2013
Wonderful novel, one of the most well written and best developed that I've read in a long time. The characters rung true, the plot pulled me in from the first page, and the ending left me wanting more. I can't think of anything that I didn't like, actually. Very well written--I find it hard to believe anyone would be disappointed by this novel, especially if you like something a bit "more" from a book. I'm a war veteran myself and felt the author had an innate understanding of what it's like to transition back into civilian life. I was a bit surprised at how well she 'nailed it'. This novel has found a special place in my heart. Well done.
December 5, 2013
Have you ever started reading a book that is so fantastic & enrapturing with such memorable characters & writing that you have forced yourself to only read a little a day, because you don't want the experience to end? If you are lucky, you have. That sums up what this book was to me. I randomly discovered this author through another book she wrote (also 5
February 2, 2014
I really loved this story!!! It was my first Amber Lea Easton Book.
July 3, 2013
A definite winner! Loved the character development and realistic plot. Put this on your MUST READ list. I read it in one night. I'd never heard of Ms. Easton before last week when I stumbled upon her book tour for this, took a chance, and she blew me away! I've already bought her other two novels and am going to be on the look out for more. I love it when I find a new author to be excited about!
July 3, 2013
Outstanding! I've read a lot of poor quality novels lately and this one was a refreshing change. The character development is excellent, the plot is compelling, and I can't find anything negative to say. If you enjoy a novel that has depth, excellent writing, and a great storyline, then check this one out.
July 7, 2013
Being cheeky--of course I'm going to give it five stars because I'm the author. LOL I hope you have a sense of humor, I couldn't resist. Check it out, though. People are enjoying it and I appreciate your being here. Thanks!
December 26, 2016
Rated 4.5 Stars
So much action, & suspense. A seemingly hopeless situation turns to love. Some funny sarcastic humor always helps.
All's well that ends well.
I really liked this.
So much action, & suspense. A seemingly hopeless situation turns to love. Some funny sarcastic humor always helps.
All's well that ends well.
I really liked this.
March 18, 2014
Very good book, definetly no lightweight and not the usual "me caveman - do as I say". Really liked it!!
May 26, 2017
4.5 🌟 Stars of Heartfelt Romantic Suspense
A Great Read filled with heart, grit, determination romance and suspense. The characters were unique, and interesting. The romance was engaging, but also fraught with real-life obstacles. This made the the book hard to put down, and quite addicting. There was no way not to cheer this couple on nut they got their HEA!
A Great Read filled with heart, grit, determination romance and suspense. The characters were unique, and interesting. The romance was engaging, but also fraught with real-life obstacles. This made the the book hard to put down, and quite addicting. There was no way not to cheer this couple on nut they got their HEA!
May 16, 2015
This was definitely a decent read. Good solid characters and good sold character development. I think I just wanted more.
It probably sounds shallow but I really don't care too much about story lines that don't aid in the development of the characters or the relationship between the characters and this was one of those for me.
I think I would have liked it better from the war point of view when they were getting together under really difficult circumstances rather than them getting back together once they returned from war. The ending was good where they were working together but the rest of it was just distracting from the actual relationship.
I also struggle with lots and lots of characters. Parents, sisters, brothers in law, step sons, best friends, colleagues etc etc. It is very hard to keep up with that many extras along with complicated relationships and life threatening work situations.
I personally prefer these complications to have a bearing on the relationship not just an addition to the story. But that is just my opinion. Well written and a solid read. 3 stars because I liked it.
It probably sounds shallow but I really don't care too much about story lines that don't aid in the development of the characters or the relationship between the characters and this was one of those for me.
I think I would have liked it better from the war point of view when they were getting together under really difficult circumstances rather than them getting back together once they returned from war. The ending was good where they were working together but the rest of it was just distracting from the actual relationship.
I also struggle with lots and lots of characters. Parents, sisters, brothers in law, step sons, best friends, colleagues etc etc. It is very hard to keep up with that many extras along with complicated relationships and life threatening work situations.
I personally prefer these complications to have a bearing on the relationship not just an addition to the story. But that is just my opinion. Well written and a solid read. 3 stars because I liked it.
December 9, 2015
Sexy Thriller
Reckless Endangerment is another sexy and suspenseful thriller from Amber Lea Easton. Recovering from injuries he sustained in an ambush, Colonel Michael Cedars has been unexpectedly transferred from Walter Reed to a facility in Colorado. Investigative journalist Hope Shane has also recently moved to Colorado. She's spent time in a war zone and is hoping for a new start. Known to few is the fact that Hope and Michael have been married for almost a year.
Michael's injuries and PTSD cause him to try to push her away but Hope is determined. She also suffers from her own traumatic memories. It's a human trafficking story she's working on that ultimately brings them back together. But Hope's involvement jeopardizes everyone she loves.
This is an exciting, suspenseful book but at its core, it's a heart-wrenching love story. I highly recommend it.
Reckless Endangerment is another sexy and suspenseful thriller from Amber Lea Easton. Recovering from injuries he sustained in an ambush, Colonel Michael Cedars has been unexpectedly transferred from Walter Reed to a facility in Colorado. Investigative journalist Hope Shane has also recently moved to Colorado. She's spent time in a war zone and is hoping for a new start. Known to few is the fact that Hope and Michael have been married for almost a year.
Michael's injuries and PTSD cause him to try to push her away but Hope is determined. She also suffers from her own traumatic memories. It's a human trafficking story she's working on that ultimately brings them back together. But Hope's involvement jeopardizes everyone she loves.
This is an exciting, suspenseful book but at its core, it's a heart-wrenching love story. I highly recommend it.
January 2, 2015
Great read! A good mix of suspense, humor and emotions. Hero and heroine both with a fair share of physical and/or emotional imperfections.
4.5 stars, only reason I did not give this 5 stars was that there were a few typos and a tattoo that moved from left to right ;-)
4.5 stars, only reason I did not give this 5 stars was that there were a few typos and a tattoo that moved from left to right ;-)
Want to read
April 7, 2016good
Read
October 1, 2016Didn't like how it started. Sounded like everything interesting had already occurred.
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