The Give & Take series continues with the introduction of the deeply
felt story of MJ Rocha and Maddie Simcoe.
From the Synopsis:
DECEPTION
Maddie Simcoe knows the devastation that comes from keeping secrets.
Now, she’s desperate to move on from the heartbreak that almost
destroyed her — trading wild passion that once made her knees weak
for a life of comfortable stability. But before Maddie can start over,
she must return home to put the past behind her once and for all…
PASSION
When Maddie blows back into MJ Rocha’s life, nothing will stop him
from proving to her that walking away from him was the biggest mistake
of her life — not even the engagement ring she wears. Her every look,
every touch tells MJ that the fire that once raged between them still
burns hot, and MJ won’t give up until Maddie gives in to the inferno.
REDEMPTION
Trapped by a hurricane roaring through Turtle Tear Island, MJ and
Maddie find shelter in each others’ arms. While the lightning flashes,
MJ and Maddie are helpless to fight bonds of desire that tie them
together. But just as they’re about to surrender to the torturous
longing that consumes them both, the storm unleashes violent secrets
from MJ’s past…secrets that could wash away all MJ and Maddie’s
hopes of forever…
REVIEW:
“Rocha men have a way of getting what they want.” Yeah, baby! I loved
this book. I was even inspired to cast MJ and Merrick:
First, although this is a standalone book I would suggest you read
Taken and the novella No Take Backs. Kelli Maine is an extremely
talented writer and these books are among my absolute favorites.
In Taken by Storm, we are introduced to MJ Rocha, the 20 year old son of
Merrick Rocha who has been hidden away from his family for his entire
life. Taken By Storm is the gripping, emotional story of MJ and Maddie
Simcoe, the daughter of his grandfather’s house manager and the love
of MJ’s life. Maddie returns to MJ, after leaving him without
explanation a year before. He is deeply hurt but fights hard for
Maddie:
“He knew he was in a riptide being pulled under while he fought to get
back to shore and keep his footing. With her, it was a competition to
see who would drown the other the faster. He wouldn’t lose this time.”
Taken By Storm is a beautiful story of secrets, loss, desperation and revenge. MJ and Maddie have been torn apart, and they both must learn to trust each other and themselves:
“He wanted to get inside her and never leave. Physically and mentally. He wanted to know what came between them and why she let it. He needed answers and he’d have them.”
I absolutely loved MJ, a wounded, old soul in a young man’s body. I
also loved Merrick, who does not disappoint as a loving, generous
father to MJ, despite having been absent from most of MJ’s life:
“Don’t force anything.” He chuckled. “Take it from someone who’s
forced his way into everything his entire life. Don’t make it hard on
yourself.”
The Florida Everglades setting is another winner for me, and you will
be captivated by the side story of the ghosts living on the grounds of
Turtle Tear Island.
Kelli Maine is a very gifted writer and there is a thriller aspect to
this book. I did not see the ending coming but trust me you will not
be disappointed. And oh yeah, there’s a hot and steamy factor to this book
which I absolutely loved:
“God, she’d missed the feel of his hands on her skin, his body pressed against hers, his ragged whispers against her flesh promising his love forever.”
Loved this book and can’t wait for more MJ, Maddie, Rachael and Merrick!
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review