Ignited (Most Wanted Series #3)

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Overview

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, Bared to You, and Release Me comes an all-new erotic series of three enigmatic and powerful men, and the striking women who can bring them to their knees.
 
He promised to take me as far as I could go—and I ...

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Ignited (Most Wanted Series #3)

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Overview

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, Bared to You, and Release Me comes an all-new erotic series of three enigmatic and powerful men, and the striking women who can bring them to their knees.
 
He promised to take me as far as I could go—and I wanted to go to the edge.
 
My whole life has been a cover, a con, a lie. I was born into the grift, raised on the thrill of playing someone I’m not. As a rule, I never let anyone get too close—until Cole August makes it impossible for me to stay away.
 
Cole is tough, sexy, and intensely loyal, yet his secrets are dark and his scars run deep. Not many women can handle his past, or the truth behind his fierce demands. But something about him beckons me—and our desire is a game I must play.
 
I know he’s dangerous, that even his touch is trouble, but what is passion without a little risk?
 
Ignited is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

Praise for Ignited
 
Ignited delivers both scorching hot scenes along with the evolution and unpeeling of emotional barriers built by past dark secrets. Moreover, the characters are complex, the passion is intense and the ultimate message that love can heal all is inspiring.”The Romance Reviews (five stars)
 
“[J.] Kenner’s Most Wanted series is about people who walk a thin line between criminal activity and superstar success, between passionate connections and dangerous desires, between darkness and light. These books succeed because Kenner is willing to walk that line right along with her characters—to probe the darkness that frightens them, to explore the passion that ignites them and to bring readers inside the relationships that set them free. This book is no different. Brutally honest, searing, kinky and seductive, Ignited is a book fans will adore and new readers will find enjoyable as well.”RT Book Reviews
 
“Thought-provoking and dramatic . . . Kenner writes with passion, beauty and a traumatic take on romance and love.”—The Reading Cafe
 
Ignited is every bit as hot and combustible as it sounds. . . . Kenner definitely knows how to write steamy love scenes and how to push the pain/pleasure envelope with her characters.”—Harlequin Junkie
 
“Fantastic. From scorching heat to raw emotion and then to a twisted situation with some pretty unsavory characters, this book really had it all. . . . If you love heat, intensity and a wealth of emotions, Ignited is a book for you! Thank you, Julie, for a phenomenal story and a great addition to the Most Wanted series.”—Read-Love-Blog
 
“Ignited is one word that truly describes the passion and connection of Cole August and Katrina Laron. . . . Ignited by lust, passion, love, and chemistry, they found out they complemented each other emotionally and physically.”—Four Chicks Flipping Pages
 
“Once again Kenner has written a book that reaches into your soul, pulls out all your emotions and leaves you with a smile.”—The Book Reading Gals

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Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher
Ignited delivers both scorching hot scenes along with the evolution and unpeeling of emotional barriers built by past dark secrets. Moreover, the characters are complex, the passion is intense and the ultimate message that love can heal all is inspiring.”The Romance Reviews (five stars)
 
“[J.] Kenner’s Most Wanted series is about people who walk a thin line between criminal activity and superstar success, between passionate connections and dangerous desires, between darkness and light. These books succeed because Kenner is willing to walk that line right along with her characters—to probe the darkness that frightens them, to explore the passion that ignites them and to bring readers inside the relationships that set them free. This book is no different. Brutally honest, searing, kinky and seductive, Ignited is a book fans will adore and new readers will find enjoyable as well.”RT Book Reviews
 
“Thought-provoking and dramatic . . . Kenner writes with passion, beauty and a traumatic take on romance and love.”—The Reading Cafe
 
Ignited is every bit as hot and combustible as it sounds. . . . Kenner definitely knows how to write steamy love scenes and how to push the pain/pleasure envelope with her characters.”—Harlequin Junkie
 
“Fantastic. From scorching heat to raw emotion and then to a twisted situation with some pretty unsavory characters, this book really had it all. . . . If you love heat, intensity and a wealth of emotions, Ignited is a book for you! Thank you, Julie, for a phenomenal story and a great addition to the Most Wanted series.”—Read-Love-Blog
 
“Ignited is one word that truly describes the passion and connection of Cole August and Katrina Laron. . . . Ignited by lust, passion, love, and chemistry, they found out they complemented each other emotionally and physically.”—Four Chicks Flipping Pages
 
“Once again Kenner has written a book that reaches into your soul, pulls out all your emotions and leaves you with a smile.”—The Book Reading Gals
 
“Filled with secrets, danger, love, lust, and two people who’ll do anything for each other . . . Fall in love with Ignited like I did. Cole is that typical sexy bad boy who’ll do anything to protect those he loves and Kat is dead set on proving she’s not the innocent girl he thinks she is. There’s intense attraction, sultry sex scenes, and a criminal element to keep you on edge.”—Hines and Bigham’s Literary Tryst
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Product Details

  • ISBN-13: 9780804176705
  • Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
  • Publication date: 9/9/2014
  • Series: J. Kenner's Most Wanted Series , #3
  • Pages: 320
  • Sales rank: 24139
  • Product dimensions: 5.10 (w) x 7.90 (h) x 0.80 (d)

Meet the Author

J. Kenner is the New York Times bestselling author of Heated, Wanted, Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. She spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge in her passion of writing. She lives in Texas with her husband and daughters.

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Read an Excerpt

one

Cons and games, lies and deceit.

Those aren’t just words to me, but a way of life.

For years, I’ve tried to escape—to be other than my father’s daughter—but time and again I have failed.

Maybe I haven’t tried hard enough. Maybe I didn’t want to. I like the rush, after all. The challenge.

I have more than twenty years of the grift behind me, and I thought I knew it all. Thought I understood risk. Thought I knew the definition of danger.

Then I saw him.

Raw and carnal, dark and dangerous.

I didn’t know risk until I met him. Didn’t understand danger until I looked into his eyes. Didn’t comprehend passion until I felt his touch.

I should have stayed away, but how could I when he was everything I craved? When I knew that he could fulfill my darkest fantasies?

I wanted him, plain and simple.

And so I set out to play the most dangerous game of all. . . . 

I stood in the middle of the newly opened Edge Gallery, my heels planted on the polished wood floor and the brilliant white walls of the main exhibit space coming close to blinding me.

Around me, politicians mingled with hipsters as they buzzed from one painting to the next like bees around a flower. Male waiters in sharply creased tuxes carried wine-topped trays with purpose, while their similarly attired female counterparts offered tasty morsels that were such works of art themselves it seemed a shame to eat them.

Tonight’s sparkling gala celebrated the opening of this newest addition to Chicago’s well-known River North gallery district, and everyone who was anyone was here. And not just because of the art. No, the crowd tonight had come as much to mingle with the owners as to celebrate the opening.

And why not? Tyler Sharp and Cole August were among Chicago’s elite. They, along with their friend and frequent business partner Evan Black, made up the knights—a triangle of power within the Chicago stratosphere. The fact that their power stemmed from both legitimate and illegitimate means only added to their dark, edgy coolness.

Not that the illegitimate side of the equation was public knowledge, but it did add a sort of mysterious sheen to these deliciously sexy men who made the press drool. I knew the truth because I was best friends with Evan’s fiancée, Angelina Raine, and that friendship had spread to include all the knights. At least, that’s what Angie and the knights believe. In reality, I’d realized the guys weren’t squeaky-clean entrepreneurs within a day of meeting them.

Like knows like, after all.

For that matter, like attracts like. At least, that’s what I hoped. Because although I truly did want to celebrate the opening, I’d really come here for one purpose, and one purpose only: to finally and completely get Cole August’s attention—and then get him in my bed.

Not that I was progressing like lightning toward that goal. I’d come without a solid plan—something I never do—and after ninety minutes of mingling, I’d spoken only fourteen words to Cole, and that was at the door as I’d entered. I knew there were fourteen words, because I’d played the encounter—I wouldn’t go so far as to call it a conversation—over and over in my head. A form of mental torture, I guess, as I wallowed in my own insipidness.

“I’m so thrilled for you both.”

“Thanks, Kat. We’re glad you could make it.”

“Me, too. Well, I’ll let you mingle. Later.”

I shook my head at myself. Honestly, if my father had been around to overhear that exchange, he would have disowned me on the spot. Hadn’t he taught me the art of making small talk? Of pulling people in? Of getting close so that you can get what you want?

Planning and focus have always been second nature to me. I’d grown up in the grift, and I’d known the ins and outs of designing a long con even before I knew my multiplication tables.

Tonight wasn’t about a con, though. Tonight was about me.

And apparently that one little fact was enough to throw me entirely off my game.

Well, damn.

I shifted slightly so that I could look at the object of my mission. I found him easily enough—Cole August is not the kind of man who blends. Right then he was working the room, discussing art with both serious buyers and casual friends.

Art was his passion, and it was easy to see how much tonight meant to him. The two featured artists—a South Side tagger whom Cole had found and pulled out of the ghetto and a world-renowned painter who specialized in hyperrealism—worked the crowd alongside him.

Cole moved with a raw power and casual arrogance that both suggested his own South Side upbringing and also defied it. I knew that he’d once been entrenched in a gang, but he’d pulled himself out of the muck to become one of the most powerful men in Chicago. As I watched him, it was easy to see the confidence and grace that got him there.

I stared, a little mesmerized, a little giddy, as Cole continued through the room. He was dressed simply in black jeans that showed off his perfect ass, and a white T-shirt that both accented the dark caramel skin of his mixed-race background, and subtly reminded the guests that Cole hadn’t been born to money and privilege. He wore his hair short, in an almost military style buzz cut, and the style drew attention to the slightly tilted eyes that missed nothing, not to mention the hard planes of his cheekbones and that wide, firm mouth that seemed molded to drive a woman crazy.

He was sex on a stick—and all I wanted was to taste him.

I’ve never played the relationship game, and I’ve rarely craved men. That bit of self-denial stemmed more from pragmatism than any lack of libido on my part. Why torment them and myself by revealing my sexual quirks, and then suffer the inevitable angst and hurt feelings when they’re unable to achieve what a sixty-dollar cylinder of vibrating rubber could manage so easily?

And to be honest, most of the men who crossed my path were less stimulating—both intellectually and physically—than anything tucked away in my toy drawer.

Cole, however, was different.

Somehow, he’d snuck into my thoughts. He’d filled my senses. I’d felt that tug the first time I’d laid eyes on him, and that was years ago. But over the past few months, he’d become an obsession, and I knew that if I wanted to get clear of him, I had to push through.

I had to have him.

I’d come here tonight determined to get what I wanted—and now I was more than a little perturbed at myself for not having immediately leaped fully and confidently into the dark waters of seduction.

I knew why I hadn’t, of course. It was because I wasn’t certain that my advances would be welcome, and I wasn’t a big fan of disappointment.

Yes, I thought that he was attracted to me—I’d felt that zing when our hands brushed and the trill of electricity in the air when we stood close together.

At least once or twice when I’d caught his eyes the illusion of friendship had turned to ash—burned away by the heat I’d seen in him. But those moments lasted only a few brief and fluttering seconds. Just enough to whet my appetite, and to make me fervently hope that the heat I saw was real—and not simply the desperate reflection of my own raging desire.

Because what assurance did I have that it wasn’t all me? Maybe I was projecting attraction where none existed and, like a moth, I was going to get singed when I fluttered too close to the flame.

Still, I’d never know if I didn’t go all in and find out. Maybe I’d fumbled the ball with my crappy conversation, but the night was young, and I gave myself a mental pep talk as I wandered the gallery, gliding through the flotsam and jetsam of gossip and business talk. Everything from catty comments about other women’s clothing, to speculation as to the best place for a post-gala meal, to praise for the undeniable skill of the various artists represented at the opening.

A few people I knew casually made eye contact, politely shifting their stance as if to welcome me into their conversation. I pretended not to notice. Right then, I was lost in my own head, trying to wrap my mind around what I wanted and how I intended to get it.

The gallery was shaped like a T, with the main exhibit hall—which displayed the work of tonight’s two featured artists—being the stem, and the crossbar being the more permanent exhibits. I’d been to the gallery before, so I knew the general layout, and I wandered the length of the room to where the two wings intersected.

There was a velvet rope blocking guests from entering the permanent area, but I’ve never paid much attention to rules. I slipped between the wall and the brass post that held the rope secure, then moved to the right so that I would be out of sight of the rest of the guests. After all, I wasn’t in the mood for either a lecture on proper party etiquette or company.

The last time I’d been in this area, the section had still been under construction. The walls had been unpainted and the glass ceiling had been covered with a dark, protective film. The long, narrow room had been gloomy and a little claustrophobic. Now it extended in front of me like a walkway to paradise.

Tonight, the glass ceiling was transparent. Outside, lights mounted on the roof shone down to provide the illusion of daylight, and all around me the area glowed with artificial sunlight and the bright colors of the various pieces on display.

Beautifully polished teak benches ran down the center of the room, each separated by bonsai trees, so that both the seating and the decoration were as artistic as the architecture and the contents. And yet there was nothing overpowering about the room. Even tonight, with the hum of voices flowing in from the main gallery, I felt the blissful freedom of solitude.

With a sigh, I sat on one of the benches, realizing only as I did that I’d chosen this spot for a specific purpose. The image in front of me had caught my eye. No, more than that. It had compelled me. Drawn me in. And now I sat and studied it.

I knew a little bit about art, though not as much as my father. And certainly not as much as Cole. But it’s fair to say that I’ve paid my dues in the kind of art gallery that caters to clients who embody that perfect trifecta of too much money, too much time, and too much property.

I couldn’t count the number of days I’d spent in high heels and a pencil skirt, extolling the virtues of a particular piece. I’d rave about the astounding deal the buyer could get because our client—“no, no, I can’t share his identity, but if you read the European papers, you’ve surely heard of him”—was desperate to unload an original master that had been in the family for generations. “Hard times,” I’d say with a resigned shake of my head. “You understand.”

And the buyer would frown and nod sympathetically, all the while thinking about this amazing bargain, and how they could one-up the Smiths at the next garden party.

I’d never sold an actual work by an actual master in my life, but the pieces I had passed held an equal appeal, at least to the eye if not to the investment portfolio.

But this painting before me put all the others I’d dealt with to shame. It was the view of a woman from behind. She was seated on the edge of a fountain, so that from the artist’s perspective she was seen through shimmering beads of water that seemed to form a living curtain. A kind of barrier between her and the world. It gave the illusion that she was a creature of pure innocence, and yet that was not an asset. Instead, her innocence rendered her untouchable, even though it was clear that all anyone had to do was slip through the water to reach her.

The angle of view was such that her hips were not visible. Instead we saw only the curve of her waist, the unblemished skin of her back, and her blond hair that fell in damp curls that ended near her shoulder blades.

There was something familiar about her. Something magnetic. And for the life of me, I had no clue what it was.

“It’s one of my favorites.”

The familiar deep voice pulled me from my trance. Flustered, I turned to face Cole, then immediately wished I hadn’t. I should have taken a moment to prepare myself first, because I heard my own gasp as I sank deep into those chocolate eyes.

“I—” I closed my mouth. Clearly I had lost all ability to think or speak or function in society. I fervently hoped the floor would just open up and swallow me, but I’d be okay with an alien abduction, too.

Neither of those things happened, though, and I found myself just sitting there staring at him while the corner of his mouth—that gorgeous, rugged, kissable mouth—twitched with what I could only assume was amusement.

“I’m sorry I slipped back here. It was getting too crowded in there for me, and I needed some air.”

Concern flickered across his face. “Is something wrong, Catalina? You looked preoccupied.”

“I’m fine,” I said, though I trembled a bit, unnerved as always when he called me by my given name. Not that he actually knew my real name. As far as Cole and all my friends in Chicago were concerned, I was Katrina Laron. Catalina Rhodes didn’t exist to them. For that matter, she didn’t exist for me, either. She hadn’t for a long, long time.

Sometimes, I missed her.

About eight months ago, a group of us had been having dinner together. Cole started talking about an upcoming trip to Los Angeles, and how he intended to visit Catalina Island. I don’t even remember the details of the conversation, but by the end of it, my new nickname had stuck.

I’d rolled my eyes and pretended to be irritated, but the truth of it was that I liked the intimacy of hearing my birth name on his lips. It meant that we shared a secret, he and I, even if I was the only one of us who knew it.

Not that Catalina was an exclusive nickname. Cole also called me “blondie” and “baby girl,” though he tended to reserve the latter for Angie, who had been a teenager when he’d met her.

Catalina was my favorite of the endearments, of course. But I wasn’t picky. However Cole wanted to mark me was fine by me.

Right then, he stood to my right and frowned down at me. “I’m fine,” I repeated, with a little more force this time. “Really. I was lost in thought, and you startled me. But I’m back now.”

“I’m glad.” His voice was smooth, almost prep-school cultured. He’d worked at it, I knew. He rarely talked about the time he’d spent in gangs, the things he’d had to overcome. Hell, he barely even talked about the two years he’d spent in Italy, studying art on scholarship. But it had all come together to make the man. And right then, in that moment, I was glad he never talked about it to the press or his clients. But I fervently wished that he would talk about it to me.

Yeah, I was a mess all right.

I stood up, then wiped my hands down the red material that clung provocatively to my thighs. I hoped it looked like I was smoothing my skirt. Instead, I was drying my sweaty palms.

“I’m going to go track down one of the girls with sushi,” I said. “I didn’t eat dinner and I think I’m feeling a little light-headed.” I didn’t mention that he was the reason my head was spinning.

“Stay.” He reached out and closed his fingers around my wrist. His hand was huge, but his grip was surprisingly tender. His skin was rough, though, and I remembered how much of the work in the gallery he’d done himself, assembling frames, hanging canvases, moving furniture. Not to mention painting his own canvases. He must spend hours holding a wooden brush, moving carefully and meticulously in order to get exactly what he wanted—color, texture, total sensuality.

Slowly, as if he was intentionally trying to drive me crazy, he let his eyes drift over me. I fought the urge to shiver—to close my eyes and soak in the fantasy of this deliberate caress.

Instead, I watched his face. Watched his expression grow hot, almost feral, as if he wanted nothing more in that moment than to touch me—to take me.

Do it, I thought. Right here, right now, just do it and let me have thought and reason back. Take me, dammit, and free me.

But he didn’t pull me close. Didn’t press his hands to my ass and grind his cock against my thighs. Didn’t slam me against the wall and press his mouth to mine while one hand closed tight around my breast and the other yanked up my skirt.

He did nothing but look at me—and in looking made me feel as though he’d done all those things.

He also made me feel better about the abuse I’d put my credit card through to buy this outfit. The dress was fire engine red, had a plunging neckline, and hugged every one of my curves. And while I might sometimes think that my curves were more appropriate for a 1940s film noir wardrobe, I can’t deny that I filled out the dress in a way that Cole seemed to appreciate.

I’d worn my mass of blond curls clipped up, letting a few tendrils dangle loose to frame my face. My red stilettos perfectly matched the dress and added four inches to my already ample height, putting me just about eye level with this man. If you looked up “fuck me heels” in the dictionary, a picture of these shoes would be on the page.

I wanted to stay right there, lost in the way he was looking at me.

At the same time, I wanted to run. To get away and regroup. To figure out how in hell I could manage to control a seduction when I couldn’t even control myself.

Escape won out, and I tugged gently at my arm to free it.

To my surprise, his grip tightened. I frowned at him, a little confused, a whole lot hopeful.

“I’d like to hear your thoughts.”

“My thoughts?”

“The painting,” he said. “What do you think of it?”

“Oh.” Cold disappointment washed over me. “The painting.”

I gave my arm another tug and this time, to my regret, he released me.

“You like it?”

“I love it,” I said, both automatically and truthfully. “But there’s something—I don’t know—sad about it.”

His brows lifted slightly, and for a moment I thought he looked mildly amused. As if he’d understood the punch line of a joke a few moments before I did. Except I never got there at all.

“It’s not sad?” I asked, turning back to look at the image.

“I don’t know,” he said. “Art is what you make of it. If you think it’s sad, then I suppose it is.”

“What is it to you?”

“Longing,” he said.

I turned from the painting to him, sure that my face showed my question.

“Not sadness so much as desire,” he said, as if that explained his response. “Her desires are like gemstones, and she holds them close, and each one presses sharp edges into the palm of her hand.”

I thought about that as I looked back at the painting. “Do you think that way because you are an artist? Or are you an artist because you think that way?”

He chuckled, the sound both mild and engaging. “Shit, Catalina. I don’t know. I don’t think I could separate one from the other.”

“Well, the most eloquent thing I can say is that I like it. I realize it’s not one of the featured pieces, but I hope you’re going to show more of the artist’s work. It’s compelling.” I leaned closer, looking for a signature on the canvas or an information card on the wall. I found neither. “Who’s the artist?”

“Don’t worry, blondie,” Cole said, his eyes flicking quickly to the painting. “We’ll keep him around.” Now I was certain I heard amusement in his voice, and since I wasn’t sure what the joke was, it ticked me off.

I cocked my head, feeling more in control now that he was irritating me. “Okay, tell me. What am I missing?”

He moved to step in front of me, blocking the painting. Hell, blocking everything. He filled all of my senses, making me a little drunk merely from his proximity. From the sight of him before me and the scent of his cologne, all spice and wood and male. Even the echo of his voice played in my head, those radio-quality tones making me want to shiver.

I didn’t have his touch, but the sensation of his hand upon my skin still lingered, and I clung tight to the memory. And as for taste—well, a girl could only hope.

Eternity passed in the space of seconds, and when he spoke, there was a musing note to his voice, as if he were speaking more to himself than to me. “How do you do it?”

“Do what?” I asked, but by the time the words escaped my lips, the spell was broken, and it was as if he hadn’t spoken at all.

“It’s an important night for Tyler and me,” he said, his voice now tight with formality. “I’m glad you came, but I should get back to the rest of the guests.”

The abrupt change in his tone disappointed me, but I clung greedily to the words themselves, and tried to ignore the rest. He’d said I’m glad. Not we’re glad.

And I, apparently, had reached a new level of pathetic if I’d sunk so low as to be analyzing pronouns.

“I wouldn’t have missed it for the world,” I said, hoping my own voice didn’t reveal the loose grip I had on my sanity.

He flashed me that killer smile, then turned toward the main gallery. But after only two steps, he stopped, then looked back at me. “By the way, you owe me,” he said, and this time there was no denying the humor on his face.

“Oh, really? And why is that?”

“How is it you started working here three months ago and I didn’t notice? That’s not like me at all. And, frankly, Kat, if you’d spent that much time at my side, I assure you it would have caught my attention.”

That spark of heat was back in his voice, but I barely noticed it. Instead, I’d turned a little cold. A string of curses whipped through my mind, and I had to force myself not to spit out a choice one or two.

Instead, I did what I’d been trained my whole life to do—I got my shit together and ran with it. “Oh my god, Cole, I’m so sorry. I meant to mention weeks ago that the mortgage company might be calling, but I got caught up in helping Angie with wedding prep stuff, and now I’m closing next week and I’ve been packing, and then—”

“It’s okay,” he said. “I get it.”

“It’s just that my hours at the coffee shop haven’t ever been steady, and I didn’t want the underwriting people to think I don’t have the means to make my payments.”

“It’s okay,” he repeated. “Buying a house is a very big deal. It’s cool. It’s been well over a week since they called, and I verified everything. If they haven’t requested any more information from you by now, then I’d say you’re good to go.”

He met my eyes once more, trapping me in his gaze just a little too long for comfort. Whatever humor had been in his face before had vanished. Instead, I saw only a vibrant, sensual intensity. “But like I said, you owe me.”

I swallowed, and despite the dryness in my mouth, I managed to form words. “Whatever you want,” I said, and I could only hope that he understood the full meaning of my words.

His gaze lingered a moment longer. Then he inclined his head as if in dismissal. “I’ll see you back in the main gallery.”

Once again he turned and walked away from me.

This time, he didn’t look back.

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Customer Reviews

Average Rating 4.5
( 35 )
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(23)

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Tue Sep 09 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    SO NOT LIKE FIFTY SHADES

    I bought this based upon the review, but it was wrong. This book is mediocre at best. Save your money for the Fifty Shades movie! I ended up skimming whole chapters to get to quality scenes. In one word," Boring".

    1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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  • Posted Fri Oct 10 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    Not Fantastic

    The basic story was okay but was not the best in the series. Cole's personality is a bit volatile and violent. Of course Kat is very accepting of being knocked around. Not the best by Ms. Kenner.

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  • Posted Wed Oct 08 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    5 Fired up Stars This is Kenner's third book in the Most Wan

    5 Fired up Stars




    This is Kenner's third book in the Most Wanted series. Cole and Kat get their turn at finding love. This book, though part of a series could be enjoyed as a stand alone, but is likely best read in order. Both Cole and Kat have issues from their past and Kat's past in particular comes back to give the new couple trouble. We learn the Cole not only likes but due to his past feels the need for the kink. He needs pain, whether to give or receive. Kat, sexually frustrated from a past she can't forget, finds the release she has craved through Cole. Their passion is off the charts hot.








    Kenner does such an amazing job drawing you in to the intimacy Cole and Kat share. Their encounters are unforgettable and leave you wanting for more. What I loved is that Kenner could get to this level and still have an actual storyline. Often books this hot seem to fill the pages only with sex and their is little substance, that is not the case with this book. 




    For fans of the series, all of your favorite couples come back, including Damien and Nikki from the Stark series. So with a sexy alpha male who opens himself to love, a strong heroine, and scenes that definitely ignite passion, there is nothing missing from this story!!




    Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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  • Posted Mon Oct 06 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    Oh my heavens! Things just got a LOT more steamy in the Most Wan

    Oh my heavens! Things just got a LOT more steamy in the Most Wanted series. I really hate to say this since Evan Black still had a hold of my heart when I started this book, but I think Cole might have stole it. With his dirty talking ways and his tortured soul he about did me in. Then there's Kat, an utterly terrific heroine. She could not have been more perfect for Cole. She pushed when he needed it, and submitted when he demanded. Together they were a perfectly in sync. 

    Kat's on her way to making an honest woman of herself. She's leaving the past where it should be a moving forward. Two things stand in her way - her father is in need of help, and her burning passion for a man that still lives flirt with the law. Yet, Cole is the only one she can turn to help her with her father. She wants in his bed, and his help. But he's only willing to give one, until she worms her way into his arms without permission. And trust me, she gets her punishment for that, and it's so delicious, and achingly seductive that she's now addicted. Addicted to Cole's way of life, his passion, his love. She wants it all. But Cole thinks he'll ruin her. He may be the dominant in the bedroom, but who'll control where they go from here? And when their perfect plan is ruined and threats are lodged will Kat keep her hold on Cole or will he run to keep her safe?

    I can't say how much I love this book. It's truly the cherry on top of the cake for this series. Cole was the epitome of what I was expecting and Kat was his equal. A thrilling, erotic novel with everything you could hope for. Some of the hottest sex scenes I've read in a while. And let's not forget the emotions. That's what I always judge a book on the hardest. Could I feel everything the characters felt? Abso-freaking-lutely! I swear Ms. Kenner caused me to choke up a few times. Whether it was from laughter or tears, I won't say, but this book got to me. There were parts of hilarity, countered my times of distraught. And what you wind up with are two very strong individuals, who for all intents and purposes should be rolled up in a ball wondering why life sucks, yet they simply find solace in each other. Something the Cole craves and needs, is what Kat has been missing. Perfect puzzle pieces. Ignited is one of my highly recommended books for the year! 

    Happy Reading!
    *ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

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  • Posted Sat Oct 04 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Highly Recommended- must read!!!!

    must read series.

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Thu Sep 25 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Awesome!

    Awesome book, story,characters & sex- just exactly what I've come to expect from J. Kenner- Thank You!
    P. S. Just wish it was longer ;-)

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  • Posted Tue Sep 23 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    First off-this is definitely not a book for the under 18 readers

    First off-this is definitely not a book for the under 18 readers! Enough said. I like this series. I like that it blends in with another of her series. I like the people in these series. Cole is "damaged" goods in his own mind. He is attracted to Kat. He tries to keep her away as he thinks he will "damage" her. There are a lot of spoilers in this book like dealing with Kat's Dad, blackmail and whether he will let her get close to him. This is a real deep BDSM story. If you don't like rough sex play just pass on this book and series. I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.

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  • Posted Mon Sep 22 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Is there a reason I cannot get this book to pull up on my Nook A

    Is there a reason I cannot get this book to pull up on my Nook App????? I have been trying so I can read this book and i can't get it! UGH

    0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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  • Posted Sun Sep 21 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    We have already read about Evan and Tyler, now we're going to fo

    We have already read about Evan and Tyler, now we're going to focus on Cole. Evan has Angelina, Tyler has Sloane, and now Kat has set her eyes on Cole. Kat has told Sloane that Cole is an itch that she needs to scratch, but the more she gets to know him, the more she is falling for him. Kat has a criminal past and Cole had some trouble when he was younger, that is how he became friends with Evan and Tyler. This series included our favorite couple from J. Kenner, Damien and Nikki Stark. Wanted was the first book, Heated the second, and then Ignited. I personally thought Ignited was the best, so if you haven't read any of this series, then you start now. You can read them as stand alone books but I suggest you read the whole series and in order. Julie, you did a great job with this series, I really enjoyed it. Thank you for doing what you do.

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  • Posted Fri Sep 19 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Cole and Katrina are both living with scars from their pasts. C

    Cole and Katrina are both living with scars from their pasts. Cole wants Katrina but is afraid he may hurt her in the end. Katrina has been through a lot in her life and isn’t afraid of Cole’s darker side. This is the third in the Most Wanted Series and even though I hadn’t read the other, I had no issues reading this one. Although I have already planned on reading the others now. I loved the characters and the story had I hooked. Fast paced, sexy a fun roller coaster ride of emotions. I loved it.

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  • Posted Fri Sep 19 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    4.5 Stars First let me say, I am not a fan of BDSM. However, des

    4.5 Stars
    First let me say, I am not a fan of BDSM. However, despite it not appealing to me, I can easily say that if this is something you enjoy, then you will love this book!



    Katrina (Catalina) and Cole have both been given the raw end of the stick in their lives. They are both irreparably damaged, and completely drawn to each other.
    Kat has lived her whole life on the grift. She could sell ice to Eskimos, as they say. On her last con, she ended up befriending her mark and realized that she wanted roots in her life. She wants to choose one place, one persona, and grow a life from the scattered pieces of her past. 
    She is immediately fascinated by Cole, and yet she cannot find the confidence that comes with being a grafter to seduce him. They form a friendship, though there is an underlying tension between them as a result of their attraction. Finally, Kat works up the courage to make her move. She discovers two things. Cole desperately wants her too, and he is hell bent on making sure that it doesn’t happen. 
    Cole has dragged himself from the depths of a dark and evil past. Though his life is not all on the “up and up” he lives on the cusp of the shadows rather than immersed within them. He believes himself lost in the demons that haunt him, but within his art, he manifests an eye for beauty. He is captivated by Katrina and paints his longing for her into an ethereal beauty that puts her on a pedestal he is not willing to topple. 
    He refuses to taint her purity. She is determined to show him that there is darkness within her as well. 
    Eventually, Kat must go to Cole for help when her father, who is still in “the game” gets himself into trouble with the mafia.
    Together, they work at finding a solution to the danger around them. Along the way, Kat convinces Cole to begin teaching her about a type of passion she has no understanding for, but is intrigued by. She has to fight for every step forward, but eventually she finds that her tastes and preferences align with Cole’s and they are able to find a passion and love that becomes a balm to one another’s souls. 
    This book is not for the faint of heart. It’s dark and intense, traveling into a world where pleasure and pain are wrapped up in each other. Kat and Cole’s pasts are rough and when they are revealed, it becomes very clear why they have been shaped into who they are. 
    Kat is a strong, and incredibly likable character. She has a light sense of humor and is determined to succeed. She is passionate, curious, and very open-minded. She brings a light to Cole that helps to keep the story from being blanketed in the depressing atmosphere that can accompany a story about such tortured souls.  
    Cole is… The best kind of dark chocolate. Smooth, rich, creamy, bitter, and sweet. He seems to set in the belief that his life simply is what it is. I was so relieved when he finally let himself see the future he could have with Kat. 
    Again, if you want a light, happy read, or are not a fan of BDSM (all though, it is not incredibly hard core, flogging being the extent of pleasure/pain), then move on to the next book. But, if you are a Fifty Shade of Grey groupie, get ready to be sucked into this book until every page is read. 

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  • Posted Wed Sep 17 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    Ignited is the third book in author J. Kenner¿s Most Wanted Seri

    Ignited is the third book in author J. Kenner’s Most Wanted Series and focuses on the oh-so-sexy Cole and the strong, spitfire Katrina. From the very beginning the sexual tension was palpable and it just kept getting better as I read. Adding some intensity to the story is some trouble with Katrina’s father, adding more to love with this story.
    Cole’s rough and incredibly heartbreaking childhood has played the biggest role in who he is today…and sometimes it’s a person he wishes he wasn’t. It’s because of that person that he vows to keep Katrina at a distance and only allow himself to admire her from afar. These days, though, it’t getting harder and harder and he fears it’s only a matter of time before he searches her out. When she tells him, in no uncertain terms, that she wants to take things further with him, he realizes he has a choice to make. Push her away or allow her a peek at the real him that only a few people have ever really seen…and risk losing her.
    Katrina is comfortable when she’s faking it. When she’s running a con or playing a role. Finding a mark, pulling a con, and moving on to the next job. The problem now is that she’s finding likes her life right now. She likes having real friends and a place to call home. A real home. She also liked Cole…a whole lot more than she probably should. All of those factors lead to her decision to put down roots, buy a home, and stay. It also lead her to take a chance on Cole and see if there would ever be a chance at something more for them. She never expected he would put up such a fight and try to convince her he was all wrong for her when anyone could see it was quite the opposite. They could be great together and he should know she wouldn’t give him up without a fight.
    Just when Katrina thinks she’s her path is set, her father shows up with a huge problem. A problem she wasn’t sure how to handle. A problem she knew only one person to go to help for. Cole. Now Katrina is not only in a fight for a chance at a relationship but in a fight to save her father’s life.
    As I mentioned earlier, this story was fantastic. From scorching heat to raw emotion and then to a twisted situation with some pretty unsavory characters, this book really had it all. I loved Cole and Katrina, both separately as well as a couple. Cole’s sad past turned him into the guarded man he is today and hearing his story broke my heart. He is this sexy, dominating man with a soft heart and a way about him that pulled me in. He is very much a paradox and it shows when he goes from painting a beautiful painting to threatening to tear a man limb from limb and meaning every word. I think it’s those personality extremes that made him so enjoyable to read. Katrina was also amazing. She wanted Cole and wouldn’t let him turn away from her. She knew she would be opening up a pandora’s box with him, so to speak, but she was made of tougher things and was in it for the long haul. She saw through to the man Cole really was and she knew it was something special. A rare and damaged beauty and one she wanted nothing more than to hold and cherish. Their chemistry was undeniable and intense. It was passionate and beautiful to watch unfold. Julie did a fabulous job building the fire between them. But beyond that, Cole is so fiercely protective and when he promises to help Katrina with the issue with her father it added yet another amazing facet to his character. I was actually a nervous wreck reading the last few chapters and was so worried for Cole and Katrina….but don’t you worry, Julie gave them a perfect ending!
    If you love heat, intensity and a wealth of emotions, Ignited is a book for you! Thank you, Julie, for a phenomenal story and a great addito to the Most Wanted Series.

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Wed Sep 17 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Loved It. Great end to the final Knight in this series.

    Loved It. Great end to the final Knight in this series.

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Tue Sep 16 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Great!

    I really enjoyed this series!

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Mon Sep 15 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    best book of the trilogy.  never said that before, but this one

    best book of the trilogy.  never said that before, but this one was.  looking forward to more!  

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Sun Sep 14 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Anonymous

    Totally loved this series of books. Looking forward to more.

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Sun Sep 14 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    B,upgh

    ? ?gjyibmyigj .bnbmb,

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  • Anonymous

    Posted Sun Sep 14 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Awesome

    Great ending to a great trilogy!!!!!

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  • Posted Fri Sep 12 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    more from this reviewer

    I loved this book! It is my favorite so far. This was Cole's sto

    I loved this book! It is my favorite so far. This was Cole's story. Kat has know the 3 knights for awhile now. Though for some reason he just can not shake the feelings for Cole. She knows that he is a mystery and she has secrets. Kat's father comes to her and he is in very deep. Kat goes to Cole for help. Kat finally gets Cole to be with her and honest. It takes time and many dangerous, hard situations to make them realize they love each other.
    I just loved this story. I started reading it and could not put it down. Cole and Kat's story has become my favorite. If you have not read any of her works you need to!

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  • Posted Fri Sep 12 00:00:00 EDT 2014

    Ignited, A Most Wanted Novel, J. Kenner Review from jeannie zelo

    Ignited, A Most Wanted Novel, J. Kenner
    Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
     
    I love J Kenner’s writing style, and have enjoyed several of her books now. This is the third in a trilogy, and I loved the first two. As with those the sex scenes in here are perfect, not overdone, not repetitive, but blend easily with the story, and never feel forced. Some books you feel that the book and story are just there as a vehicle for pages and pages of boring and dull sex, but J Kenner always makes the erotic parts fit and belong properly in the story, and ensures they are sensual and seductive.
    This time is Cole of the three Knights that’s the focus. He’s wanted Catalina for ages, but lusts from afar, never being anything but polite and circumspect to her when they meet. He believes his childhood left him so badly flawed that he’s too dangerous for her, doesn’t deserve her and won’t do anything that might change that. Catalina though isn’t the perfect princess type he seems to think she is. She was brought up working with her dad at long and short cons, grifting for a way of living. It was at times a harsh and dangerous way of life. When she finally separated from her father, it was because hew was in too deep with the wrong people. They agreed it was safer for her to have minimal contact, and to set up a new life for herself, wiping out her old background with a new name and clean sheet, but of course inside she’s still the same person, has the same knowledge and is also subject to problems hanging over from childhood trauma.
    I loved Catalina, she was very open finally about going for what she wanted – Cole. She’s held back, waiting for him to make a move but finally took things into her own hands. At first she gets nowhere but she’s got that stick with it and see it through background and she won’t give up. She’s hardworking, proud of what she’s achieved, a great friend to the girls involved with the other two knights, Angie and Sloane. They too had problems getting together with their men, and are encouraging to Catalina. I loved that she was so proud of her soon to be first house purchase, and it proved the perfect venue for some hot phone sex!! Great way to christen a new home..
    Cole, what a tortured soul he is, locked in by his background problems.That was harsh and I understood exactly why he had the need for control and the BDSM elements in his life. There’s not a huge amount of BDSM, but what there is fits the story, again not something brought in to spice up, but something that’s an innate part of his nature and belongs in the story. I like the link to as to the reasons why it’s not just something he likes but something he needs. I can see the psychological link between the elements of it. He’s a great man too – good looking of course! and a true gentleman when its needed. Like the other two he can mix with anyone whatever their station in life, he’s got that ability to make himself comfortable in any environment.  I loved the paintings he’d done of Catalina without her knowledge. I loved too the way he handled her closing documents – all that danger on his mind, and yet he took time to arrange something that was really important to Catalina, not essential but which made her happy. It was a typical Cole move, where he makes things happen because he wants it for someone.
    There’s a huge problem opens up for the drama side of the story when Catalina’s father returns unexpectedly, and it leads to some terrific and dramatic plots that also bring in the Starks, Damien and Nikki, for cameo parts. That was fun, like meeting with old friends. As ever there are links to the other Knights, parts of the story where they or their girlfriends are important and brings together the whole trilogy in a great finale.
    Stars: five, another great sensual and erotic read.
    ARC supplied via Netgalley

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