Texas Hold ‘Em by Christie Craig

Author Christie Craig has a knack for drawing readers deep into her novels and holding them spellbound until the very end.

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM, the third installment in Craig’s Hotter in Texas series, is a good example of this technique. Within the first few pages, you’re hooked and find it hard to put down until you know the final outcome.

While this is the third book in the series, it can be read on its own. Craig weaves enough background information into the story to keep new readers from being in the dark.

PI Austin Brook is determined to make Rafael DeLuna pay for framing him for murder. He’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen including pretending to be someone else while charming DeLuna’s half-sister, Leah Reece. What he didn’t plan on when he moved next door to Leah was his sexual attraction toward her. As he gets closer to DeLuna, he realizes he’ll have to come clean with her about who he really is in order to protect her, possibly losing her in the process. 

Veterinarian Leah Reece has no use for men. She’s had trouble with them starting with the father that wouldn’t acknowledge her to her ex that shattered her heart. She especially has no use for her dangerous half-brother, Rafael. But she finds herself thinking more and more about her new sexy neighbor with the twinkling blue eyes. When her apartment is broken into, Leah suspects Rafael and realizes she could use a man’s help. She finds herself turning to her new neighbor.

Craig blends romance, suspense and lots of humor to create this well balanced story. Her characters are well developed with realistic traits and faults that readers can relate to. Her way of weaving the antics of four cats with a man deathly afraid of them will have you laughing out loud. She also blends a second love story with two unlikely characters that will keep you guessing.

Craig’s rich descriptions and eye for detail brings the story to life. There are ups and downs to keep you on the edge of your seat. The story moves at a smooth, steady pace with twists and turns to intensify the suspense.

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM is a feel-good book that will have you believing in second chances and redemption.

Texas Hold ‘Em by Christie Craig, A Hotter in Texas Series Book #3, Forever, @2014, ISBN: 978-0446582827, Paperback, 480 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author and/or publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

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