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Burying Water #4
Surviving Ice
11 hours, 17 minutes
Ivy, a talented tattoo artist who spent the early part of her twenties on the move, is finally looking for a place to call home. She thinks she might have found it in San Francisco, but all that changes when she witnesses a terrible crime. She’s ready to pack up her things yet again, when a random encounter with a stranger keeps her in the city, giving her reason to stay after all.
That is, until Ivy discovers that their encounter wasn’t random. Not at all…
Ivy, a talented tattoo artist who spent the early part of her twenties on the move, is finally looking for a place to call home. She thinks she might have found it in San Francisco, but all that changes when she witnesses a terrible crime. She’s ready to pack up her things yet again, when a random encounter with a stranger keeps her in the city, giving her reason to stay after all.
That is, until Ivy discovers that their encounter wasn’t random. Not at all…
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 27, 2015
About the author
K.A. Tucker
60 books22.9k followersK.A. Tucker writes captivating stories with an edge.
She is the internationally bestselling author of over thirty books, including Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and the Fate & Flame series, Until It Fades, Say You Still Love Me, and Keep Her Safe. Her books have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Globe & Mail, Suspense Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Oprah Mag, and First for Women.
Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and A Queen of Thieves & Chaos were Goodreads Choice award nominees.
K.A. Tucker lives outside of Toronto.
Join Tucker's Troop on Facebook! >>
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She is the internationally bestselling author of over thirty books, including Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and the Fate & Flame series, Until It Fades, Say You Still Love Me, and Keep Her Safe. Her books have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Globe & Mail, Suspense Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Oprah Mag, and First for Women.
Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and A Queen of Thieves & Chaos were Goodreads Choice award nominees.
K.A. Tucker lives outside of Toronto.
Join Tucker's Troop on Facebook! >>
https://www.facebook.com/groups/14685...
Signup for her newsletter >> https://www.katuckerbooks.com/newslet...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 550 reviews
March 1, 2017
Crazy intense chemistry, sarcastic banter, endearing characters, an edgy plot . . . does it get any better than this?
If I’m being honest, I wasn’t convinced going into this story that Ivy was a character whose head I wanted to be in. We meet her initially in Burying Water and see a little bit of her softer side in Chasing River, but it isn't until this story that we're given a true look at who this woman really is beneath the snark, the tattoos and her art. I'm the first to admit, I completely misjudged her. I might even go so far to say, she's now one of my favorite characters of the entire Burying Water series. Beneath that abrasive, I-don't-care attitude, is someone with a huge heart.
It was that darn Chasing River epilogue that left me dying for more of Rowen’s charm and silliness. I kept questioning how Ivy could leave Dublin without giving him a chance and her declaration - “grinning Irishmen aren’t my type” - kind of threw me off, at first . . . what, why?! Ok, those were my pre-Sebastian thoughts. Sorry, Rowen. I gotta side with Ivy on this one. I can’t blame her for ditching the flirty Irishmen now that I know Sebastian was on the horizon.
Ivy’s always felt misunderstood, except where her Uncle Ned is concerned. He took her under his wing, helped her hone her tattooing skills and just let her be Ivy. So naturally, his murder leaves her pretty shaken up and sort of lost. After spending seven months in San Francisco, working in his tattoo shop, and contemplating a more permanent stay, her life is uprooted . . . again. Is there anything worth sticking around for or is it time to move on to the next city?
In steps Sebastian, the ex-Navy SEAL and total badass, to change everything. He shows up at the shop, under the guise of a referral, wanting Ivy to work her magic. We’re made privy to the real reason he’s there though and it’s for far more than just a grim reaper on his torso. Sebastian’s there to clean up a mess . . . one that ties Ivy's fate to an elusive VHS tape.
To say that I was completely captivated by Sebastian and Ivy is an understatement. K.A. Tucker has a gift for telling stories without the contrived drama and overwrought angst that plagues so many other books in this genre and it's refreshing. Addictive. Exciting. She really takes the time to develop her characters and the plot, which results in actions, emotions and dialogue that always manages to feel organic. And the insane amount of anticipation and tension she creates . . . utter perfection. I couldn’t ask for more.
If I’m being honest, I wasn’t convinced going into this story that Ivy was a character whose head I wanted to be in. We meet her initially in Burying Water and see a little bit of her softer side in Chasing River, but it isn't until this story that we're given a true look at who this woman really is beneath the snark, the tattoos and her art. I'm the first to admit, I completely misjudged her. I might even go so far to say, she's now one of my favorite characters of the entire Burying Water series. Beneath that abrasive, I-don't-care attitude, is someone with a huge heart.
It was that darn Chasing River epilogue that left me dying for more of Rowen’s charm and silliness. I kept questioning how Ivy could leave Dublin without giving him a chance and her declaration - “grinning Irishmen aren’t my type” - kind of threw me off, at first . . . what, why?! Ok, those were my pre-Sebastian thoughts. Sorry, Rowen. I gotta side with Ivy on this one. I can’t blame her for ditching the flirty Irishmen now that I know Sebastian was on the horizon.
Ivy’s always felt misunderstood, except where her Uncle Ned is concerned. He took her under his wing, helped her hone her tattooing skills and just let her be Ivy. So naturally, his murder leaves her pretty shaken up and sort of lost. After spending seven months in San Francisco, working in his tattoo shop, and contemplating a more permanent stay, her life is uprooted . . . again. Is there anything worth sticking around for or is it time to move on to the next city?
In steps Sebastian, the ex-Navy SEAL and total badass, to change everything. He shows up at the shop, under the guise of a referral, wanting Ivy to work her magic. We’re made privy to the real reason he’s there though and it’s for far more than just a grim reaper on his torso. Sebastian’s there to clean up a mess . . . one that ties Ivy's fate to an elusive VHS tape.
To say that I was completely captivated by Sebastian and Ivy is an understatement. K.A. Tucker has a gift for telling stories without the contrived drama and overwrought angst that plagues so many other books in this genre and it's refreshing. Addictive. Exciting. She really takes the time to develop her characters and the plot, which results in actions, emotions and dialogue that always manages to feel organic. And the insane amount of anticipation and tension she creates . . . utter perfection. I couldn’t ask for more.
October 17, 2015
4 stars
If you’ve read any of the Burying Water series, you know Ivy Lee (If you haven’t, don’t worry, this can be read as a standalone). Surviving Ice is the forth book in this series, and besides the first, which is my absolute favorite, I think this is probably the next best one.
Ivy is settled in San Fransisco working in her uncle’s tattoo parlor. She doesn’t stay in one place for too long, and she’s been here longer than normal. She’s actually considering staying for good. That is, until her uncle gets murdered in the shop. Now, she can’t get out of there fast enough. If Ivy could just take off, she would, but she has to handle all his affairs first.
Sebastian is in San Fransisco for a job. He was a Navy Seal, now he’s working with an old friend with his security company. He has a job to do. Ivy is part of that job. Her uncle had something he needs. And he’ll use whatever means necessary to get it.
As Sebastian works to find what he needs, something strange happen. He and Ivy connect. Ivy is more surprised than anyone. It’s been a long time since she’s felt connected to anyone. She’s standoffish and guarded but Sebastian slowly starts to tear down that barrier. Now there is this one big secret between them. Ivy isn’t stupid. She is strong, she is independent and she is feisty. She is also intuitive. She knows Sebastian has a secret, she just doesn’t know what it is…
I love the suspense element to these stories. I read a lot of romance. A LOT OF ROMANCE. I love romance, but sometimes I want a little mystery and suspense. That is why I love this series so much. Tucker always has the romance there, but there is so much more than just romance. I was biting my nails through this one to see what was going to happen. Ivy and Sebastian were tough characters. They both had trouble opening up to people and relating to others. I loved that they were able to come together despite their issues.
K.A. Tucker’s writing is always superb. No matter what her stories are about, wether they’re angsty, romantic or suspenseful, I can always count on her writing to be top notch. If you’re in the mood for a romantic suspense, this is a book (and series) I recommend!
If you’ve read any of the Burying Water series, you know Ivy Lee (If you haven’t, don’t worry, this can be read as a standalone). Surviving Ice is the forth book in this series, and besides the first, which is my absolute favorite, I think this is probably the next best one.
Ivy is settled in San Fransisco working in her uncle’s tattoo parlor. She doesn’t stay in one place for too long, and she’s been here longer than normal. She’s actually considering staying for good. That is, until her uncle gets murdered in the shop. Now, she can’t get out of there fast enough. If Ivy could just take off, she would, but she has to handle all his affairs first.
Sebastian is in San Fransisco for a job. He was a Navy Seal, now he’s working with an old friend with his security company. He has a job to do. Ivy is part of that job. Her uncle had something he needs. And he’ll use whatever means necessary to get it.
People so rarely surprise me anymore, but I have a feeling she might.
As Sebastian works to find what he needs, something strange happen. He and Ivy connect. Ivy is more surprised than anyone. It’s been a long time since she’s felt connected to anyone. She’s standoffish and guarded but Sebastian slowly starts to tear down that barrier. Now there is this one big secret between them. Ivy isn’t stupid. She is strong, she is independent and she is feisty. She is also intuitive. She knows Sebastian has a secret, she just doesn’t know what it is…
I love the suspense element to these stories. I read a lot of romance. A LOT OF ROMANCE. I love romance, but sometimes I want a little mystery and suspense. That is why I love this series so much. Tucker always has the romance there, but there is so much more than just romance. I was biting my nails through this one to see what was going to happen. Ivy and Sebastian were tough characters. They both had trouble opening up to people and relating to others. I loved that they were able to come together despite their issues.
K.A. Tucker’s writing is always superb. No matter what her stories are about, wether they’re angsty, romantic or suspenseful, I can always count on her writing to be top notch. If you’re in the mood for a romantic suspense, this is a book (and series) I recommend!
August 6, 2016
LIVE AMAZON http://amzn.to/1kLO1ol
5 STARS
This was such an amazing story,yes this is definitely my favorite so far!!! I think K.A. Tucker's writing just keeps getting better and better!! Each story give us something more! I loved this story so much and I couldn't put it down!! I have to admit that I was super excited for Ivy's book!! I love her character and I wanted to know more about her!! This is a little different from the other books and maybe this is the reason why I loved it so much!! It starts with action and you can't stop yourself from being captivated from the very beginning!!
This story starts with Ivy witnessing her uncle’s murder, and also becoming the target of a very dangerous organization! Sebastian is the man who is supposed to find what these men were looking when they murdered her uncle. But after meeting Ivy, he is fascinated by her personality! I loved how these two connected. And I like their connection even thought it was instant it felt so realistic!
Ivy is one of the best heroines I have ever read! She is smart, kickass, independent, funny and so strong!! I love her character and I admire her!! I could definitely be friends with her!! And Sebastian...OMG he is mysterious and so damn hot!! I was intrigued from the beginning and I wanted to know more about him!!
"She's good at hiding her emotions.
Just like I am."
I loved this book and the romance, suspense and the mystery!! I'm sad that this series has come to an end! I hope I can read soon more books from K.A. Tucker!
ARC provided by Atria Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
5 STARS
This was such an amazing story,yes this is definitely my favorite so far!!! I think K.A. Tucker's writing just keeps getting better and better!! Each story give us something more! I loved this story so much and I couldn't put it down!! I have to admit that I was super excited for Ivy's book!! I love her character and I wanted to know more about her!! This is a little different from the other books and maybe this is the reason why I loved it so much!! It starts with action and you can't stop yourself from being captivated from the very beginning!!
This story starts with Ivy witnessing her uncle’s murder, and also becoming the target of a very dangerous organization! Sebastian is the man who is supposed to find what these men were looking when they murdered her uncle. But after meeting Ivy, he is fascinated by her personality! I loved how these two connected. And I like their connection even thought it was instant it felt so realistic!
Ivy is one of the best heroines I have ever read! She is smart, kickass, independent, funny and so strong!! I love her character and I admire her!! I could definitely be friends with her!! And Sebastian...OMG he is mysterious and so damn hot!! I was intrigued from the beginning and I wanted to know more about him!!
"She's good at hiding her emotions.
Just like I am."
I loved this book and the romance, suspense and the mystery!! I'm sad that this series has come to an end! I hope I can read soon more books from K.A. Tucker!
ARC provided by Atria Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2015
~4.5 STUNNING STARS~
"Ice is beautiful and enticing; cold and hard and uncompromising."
Surviving Ice is my second K.A. Tucker read. Once again, I stand in awe at the rich and lyrical writing style of Ms. Tucker. She has the ability to draw her readers in and hold them captive by the endearing, and yet, complex characters she creates. I thoroughly enjoyed being back with her writing and I feel like Surviving Ice was like a homecoming party. With it's edgy characters and action packed plot, this read is not to be missed!
Ivy is a bit of a drifter. As a tattoo artist and street graffiti artist, she lives a simple life working for her uncle in his tattoo shop in sunny California. When it comes to her family, her uncle has always been her only support. When Ivy witnesses his brutal murder, she is left grappling with emotions in which she has no idea how to cope with. Although she has the support of her friends, she only desires to run away.
"Ned who made San Francisco feel like home, because now he's gone, I just want to get the hell away."-Ivy
Sebastian is a former Navy Seal. After an "other than honorable" discharge from the military, he has found success working in private security for an old military friend and mentor. When he receives the call to return to his home state of California for a special mission, he returns home to work a job that will be the catalyst for changing his life forever.
"Ivy is fierce, and stunning, and captivating."-Sebastian
Sebastian doesn't know anything about the "reckless" woman that he has been charged to follow and "get to know". He only knows that she has answers and it his job to retrieve them. He never expected to fall in love with her. When it comes to Ivy and Sebastian, the saying "opposites attract" really does ring true. Ivy is edgy, artsy, and a true free spirit. He is a straight laced former military man who thrives under structure and living his life under the straight and narrow. As a fast friendship is formed between the two, which naturally progresses to much more, Sebastian begins to feel guilt for deceiving Ivy. When his boss begins to take alternative precautions for the job's sake, Ivy's life is put in danger. Can Sebastian save Ivy and find the answers he is searching for? Will Ivy ever forgive the man who has stolen her heart when she finds out the truth about him and "the mission"?
"I wanted to fill her with me. I wanted to mark her, in a way."-Sebastian
Surviving Ice is an addictive read full of action, mystery, and the steam factor is "off the charts" aka HOT! Told in dual POV, the characters are extremely likable and the plot is well developed throughout. The pacing of the story is steady and the dialogue is rich with sarcastic banter between Noah and Ivy. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this read. The setting of the story is well established as every detail is colored perfectly on the page. Additionally, the story arc is nicely crafted with a well developed beginning, middle, and end. These are just a few reasons why I enjoyed Surviving Ice.
"What are you doing?"-Ivy
"I'm staying."-Sebastian
Overall, I highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys a good action/mystery/romance! I have always been a fan of Ms. Tucker's writing and this read just reaffirms my desire to read more of her work! Ivy was such a unique creation and she and Sebastian will stay with me always! Bravo Ms. Tucker! Bravo!
~Read as part of the Shh...for the IndieSTAR chat with Probst, St. Germain, Tucker & Rose: Oct. 4-10!
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
~ARC graciously provided via NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review!~
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"Ice is beautiful and enticing; cold and hard and uncompromising."
Surviving Ice is my second K.A. Tucker read. Once again, I stand in awe at the rich and lyrical writing style of Ms. Tucker. She has the ability to draw her readers in and hold them captive by the endearing, and yet, complex characters she creates. I thoroughly enjoyed being back with her writing and I feel like Surviving Ice was like a homecoming party. With it's edgy characters and action packed plot, this read is not to be missed!
Ivy is a bit of a drifter. As a tattoo artist and street graffiti artist, she lives a simple life working for her uncle in his tattoo shop in sunny California. When it comes to her family, her uncle has always been her only support. When Ivy witnesses his brutal murder, she is left grappling with emotions in which she has no idea how to cope with. Although she has the support of her friends, she only desires to run away.
"Ned who made San Francisco feel like home, because now he's gone, I just want to get the hell away."-Ivy
Sebastian is a former Navy Seal. After an "other than honorable" discharge from the military, he has found success working in private security for an old military friend and mentor. When he receives the call to return to his home state of California for a special mission, he returns home to work a job that will be the catalyst for changing his life forever.
"Ivy is fierce, and stunning, and captivating."-Sebastian
Sebastian doesn't know anything about the "reckless" woman that he has been charged to follow and "get to know". He only knows that she has answers and it his job to retrieve them. He never expected to fall in love with her. When it comes to Ivy and Sebastian, the saying "opposites attract" really does ring true. Ivy is edgy, artsy, and a true free spirit. He is a straight laced former military man who thrives under structure and living his life under the straight and narrow. As a fast friendship is formed between the two, which naturally progresses to much more, Sebastian begins to feel guilt for deceiving Ivy. When his boss begins to take alternative precautions for the job's sake, Ivy's life is put in danger. Can Sebastian save Ivy and find the answers he is searching for? Will Ivy ever forgive the man who has stolen her heart when she finds out the truth about him and "the mission"?
"I wanted to fill her with me. I wanted to mark her, in a way."-Sebastian
Surviving Ice is an addictive read full of action, mystery, and the steam factor is "off the charts" aka HOT! Told in dual POV, the characters are extremely likable and the plot is well developed throughout. The pacing of the story is steady and the dialogue is rich with sarcastic banter between Noah and Ivy. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this read. The setting of the story is well established as every detail is colored perfectly on the page. Additionally, the story arc is nicely crafted with a well developed beginning, middle, and end. These are just a few reasons why I enjoyed Surviving Ice.
"What are you doing?"-Ivy
"I'm staying."-Sebastian
Overall, I highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys a good action/mystery/romance! I have always been a fan of Ms. Tucker's writing and this read just reaffirms my desire to read more of her work! Ivy was such a unique creation and she and Sebastian will stay with me always! Bravo Ms. Tucker! Bravo!
~Read as part of the Shh...for the IndieSTAR chat with Probst, St. Germain, Tucker & Rose: Oct. 4-10!
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
~ARC graciously provided via NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review!~
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
March 1, 2017
I discovered K.A. Tucker when I read her Ten Tiny Breaths Series and became an instant fan. I couldn’t wait to her next Burying Water Series, which I have totally loved.
Surviving Ice is the 4th book in the Burying Water series and we now have Ivy Lee’s story. I have been captivated by this character since she was first introduced in the previous books. Tattoo artist, street graffiti artist, edgy, a loner, and a free spirit nomad.
She’s back in San Francisco, working in her uncle’s tattoo shop. He’s someone that understands her and close to and when he witnesses his brutal murder, her life is suddenly thrown into a maelstrom of emotions. Trying to come to terms with her loss, all she thinks about is to leave everything behind and moving on somewhere else….
Sebastian, former Navy Seal turned “hired gun” for his former military friend and mentor, has been tasked with a mission to retrieve a missing tape containing information that can incriminate a lot of very powerful people. Ivy is the only person who may know its location, so he travels from Santorini to San Francisco to complete the mission.
This mission will change Sebastian’s life in a way he never expected.
Ivy, the tattooed, independent and sassy artist ……..
The romance between Sebastian and Ivy developed really well. We see it growing from friendship to something deeper, which was a pleasure to see. What starts as a physical attraction it grows into something more.
Surviving Ice is the 4th book in the Burying Water series and we now have Ivy Lee’s story. I have been captivated by this character since she was first introduced in the previous books. Tattoo artist, street graffiti artist, edgy, a loner, and a free spirit nomad.
She’s back in San Francisco, working in her uncle’s tattoo shop. He’s someone that understands her and close to and when he witnesses his brutal murder, her life is suddenly thrown into a maelstrom of emotions. Trying to come to terms with her loss, all she thinks about is to leave everything behind and moving on somewhere else….
Sebastian, former Navy Seal turned “hired gun” for his former military friend and mentor, has been tasked with a mission to retrieve a missing tape containing information that can incriminate a lot of very powerful people. Ivy is the only person who may know its location, so he travels from Santorini to San Francisco to complete the mission.
This mission will change Sebastian’s life in a way he never expected.
Using the pretence that he wants a tattoo done by Ivy, after doing some surveillance on her, he slowly begins to see more than what she shows the world.
She is strong, I’ll give her that. Her uncle was murdered a week ago and she’s not sitting in there, crying about it. She’s set her grief aside to do what needs to be done, and that’s a quality not everyone possesses. She’s doing it on her own, too, I presume, because I don’t see anyone around to help her.This is a such a true “opposites attract” story.
But she’s definitely not unaffected by what’s happened. I could see it in the dark bags under her eyes, as if she hasn’t slept in days. I saw it in the way she reacted to me entering the shop, her tiny fist curled around the wrench, ready to defend herself if she needed to. .
Ivy, the tattooed, independent and sassy artist ……..
She finds Sebastian fascinating and for the first time in her life there’s a man she feels a deep connection with. A man with secrets and dangerous skills and who seems to want to look after her and keeping her safe…..
The romance between Sebastian and Ivy developed really well. We see it growing from friendship to something deeper, which was a pleasure to see. What starts as a physical attraction it grows into something more.
I loved how Ivy and Sebastian found each other and what the love they had for one another made their lives so much happier and meaningful…
Perfect balance between suspense and romance. A well paced plot with engaging characters set in the great city of San Francisco and some fantastic and witty dialogue.
If you are a lover of romance, suspense, mystery, action and great characters, then please read this series. I can so recommend it.
One of my favorite quotes:If you would like to read my reviews on this series…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
October 16, 2015
FOUR POINT FIVE STARS
INTENSE
KA Tucker delivers an intense opening scenes. After I started this one I knew I was in for a great suspense filled book.
”I need you to find that recording.”
Ivy witnessed a crime that has put her in harm's way and left her reeling with what she should do. Fortunately, for her, a stranger enters into her life at the right moment. This mystery man happens to be Sebastian who has been given the mission to find a missing recording. For him to accomplish this task he has to scope out Ivy and get close to her.
Tattoo Time.
What better way to get to know someone than to let them tattoo to you. Especially when that person you’re trying to get to know is a skilled tattoo artist. Ivy spends some much time tattooing Sebastian she quips, "After seven hours under my needle, we'll practically be married."
Sebastian
Gah, I loved this enigma of a man. A man of very little words who unless he has something that needs to be said he’s not opening up. After reading all four books in this series Sebastian has become my favorite guy. I love his calm and quiet demeanor. Ivy was drawn to his discreet manner along with the fact that he has a reliable vibe.
Ms. Tucker created a fantastic series filled with romance and suspense.
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: October 27, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1VjoLGC
SERIES:
To find when the next one is being released click here.
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Quotes are from uncorrected copy and are subject to change in the final version.
INTENSE
KA Tucker delivers an intense opening scenes. After I started this one I knew I was in for a great suspense filled book.
”I need you to find that recording.”
Ivy witnessed a crime that has put her in harm's way and left her reeling with what she should do. Fortunately, for her, a stranger enters into her life at the right moment. This mystery man happens to be Sebastian who has been given the mission to find a missing recording. For him to accomplish this task he has to scope out Ivy and get close to her.
Tattoo Time.
What better way to get to know someone than to let them tattoo to you. Especially when that person you’re trying to get to know is a skilled tattoo artist. Ivy spends some much time tattooing Sebastian she quips, "After seven hours under my needle, we'll practically be married."
Sebastian
Gah, I loved this enigma of a man. A man of very little words who unless he has something that needs to be said he’s not opening up. After reading all four books in this series Sebastian has become my favorite guy. I love his calm and quiet demeanor. Ivy was drawn to his discreet manner along with the fact that he has a reliable vibe.
Ms. Tucker created a fantastic series filled with romance and suspense.
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: October 27, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1VjoLGC
SERIES:
To find when the next one is being released click here.
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Quotes are from uncorrected copy and are subject to change in the final version.
January 3, 2016
4.5 Stars
Ivy Lee has been filled with wanderlust for years, but working back at her Uncle Ned’s tattoo shop in San Francisco makes her feel like she could finally put down roots. Her feelings are shattered when her uncle is murdered in the front room of his tattoo parlor and Ivy is the lone witness. Was his murder just collateral damage in a robbery gone wrong or did her uncle get mixed up in some unsavory business?
Ever since Sebastian was discharged from the navy, he’s been working for an elite security company that mop up “problems” the US Government doesn’t want to touch. When he’s called in to do damage control in a botched job in San Francisco, Sebastian quickly realizes not all is as it seems. Ivy, the little sassy tattoo artist, while tough and independent, is in a whole lot of danger. While spending time with Ivy as he investigates, Sebastian starts to care for her seriously, but can things ever work if she finds out the truth about him?
Ivy has been the most bristly character in the series, but I liked her spunk, individuality, and her big heart underneath it all. She was abrasive at times, and she tried to keep her feelings guarded but she’s met her match in Sebastian. Sebastian is the master at covering emotions with impenetrable shields, so every time Ivy tried to hide reactions, he was able to sense her underlying feelings. They got each other, and didn’t force things out when the other was uncomfortable sharing; just waited it out until it would spill out naturally. Their romance progressed slowly while they got to know each other, building sexual tension as they grew closer, and to me they just clicked.
Surviving Ice, the last book in the Burying Water series, ties as my favorite with the first in the series, Burying Water. I adored Ivy and Sebastian’s story; the two were perfectly matched! I also enjoyed the suspense and thrills the mystery provided, wondering exactly what Ned got himself into that cost him his life.
In each of the Burying Water installments there was a gray area between right and wrong. At the heart of it were characters trying to do the right thing in a difficult situation, but having to live with some of the gray area, as well. Made me wonder what I’d do in similar situations. I applaud K.A. Tucker’s handling of the New Adult category/genre. You won’t find the usual ridiculous relationship drama and angst. Instead what powered her stories were chemistry filled, realistic romance, and a captivating mystery. I’m sad to say goodbye to the series, but I’m eager to read whatever Ms. Tucker comes up with next!
A copy was kindly provided by Atria Books in exchange for an honest review.
Ivy Lee has been filled with wanderlust for years, but working back at her Uncle Ned’s tattoo shop in San Francisco makes her feel like she could finally put down roots. Her feelings are shattered when her uncle is murdered in the front room of his tattoo parlor and Ivy is the lone witness. Was his murder just collateral damage in a robbery gone wrong or did her uncle get mixed up in some unsavory business?
Ever since Sebastian was discharged from the navy, he’s been working for an elite security company that mop up “problems” the US Government doesn’t want to touch. When he’s called in to do damage control in a botched job in San Francisco, Sebastian quickly realizes not all is as it seems. Ivy, the little sassy tattoo artist, while tough and independent, is in a whole lot of danger. While spending time with Ivy as he investigates, Sebastian starts to care for her seriously, but can things ever work if she finds out the truth about him?
Ivy has been the most bristly character in the series, but I liked her spunk, individuality, and her big heart underneath it all. She was abrasive at times, and she tried to keep her feelings guarded but she’s met her match in Sebastian. Sebastian is the master at covering emotions with impenetrable shields, so every time Ivy tried to hide reactions, he was able to sense her underlying feelings. They got each other, and didn’t force things out when the other was uncomfortable sharing; just waited it out until it would spill out naturally. Their romance progressed slowly while they got to know each other, building sexual tension as they grew closer, and to me they just clicked.
Surviving Ice, the last book in the Burying Water series, ties as my favorite with the first in the series, Burying Water. I adored Ivy and Sebastian’s story; the two were perfectly matched! I also enjoyed the suspense and thrills the mystery provided, wondering exactly what Ned got himself into that cost him his life.
In each of the Burying Water installments there was a gray area between right and wrong. At the heart of it were characters trying to do the right thing in a difficult situation, but having to live with some of the gray area, as well. Made me wonder what I’d do in similar situations. I applaud K.A. Tucker’s handling of the New Adult category/genre. You won’t find the usual ridiculous relationship drama and angst. Instead what powered her stories were chemistry filled, realistic romance, and a captivating mystery. I’m sad to say goodbye to the series, but I’m eager to read whatever Ms. Tucker comes up with next!
A copy was kindly provided by Atria Books in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Hypnotic and Dangerously Addicting!!!! K.A. Tucker has truly outdone herself with her newest release Surviving Ice, the fourth and final installment of The Burying Water Series. Personally, this book happens to be my favorite of the series. Ms. Tucker had me glued to my kindle. She had me crave for more because I didn't want this book to end. Surviving Ice can only be summed up as PHENOMENAL!!!! I loved everything about this book from the writing, story line, the characters and the raw emotions that was seeping throughout the book. In this captivating and consuming novel, Ms. Tucker perfectly weaves romance, intrigue, suspense, passion and mystery. This book was literally brimming with so much intensity and raw emotions that every word, prose, and action has a way of holding your hearts and attention hostage.
"Who are you, really Sebastian? Besides the stranger who strolled in and seized my heart?"
If you have read Chasing River, we were introduced to Ivy Lee, a tattoo artist. Ivy's character intrigued me. She had this tough and rough exterior and personality that made readers like myself wanting to know more about this reclusive and resilient woman. And in Surviving Ice, Ms. Tucker captured our hearts as we got to see and know the REAL Ivy Lee. Though Ivy maybe perceived as tough tattoo badass chick, she was so much more. Behind the strong persona, there was so much depth to her character. She was strong, independent, and free spirited but she was also a woman, who was vulnerable, lovable, and beautiful inside and out. The different sides of Ivy allowed readers to fully connect to her and see her as a woman who yearns to be loved. In essence, Ms. Tucker allowed readers to see the full spectrum of the real Ivy.
When Ivy returns back to the States from Dublin, she finds herself living temporarily in San Francisco and working in her uncle's famous tattoo shop. Ivy has always been that person who was living out of her suitcase and seeing where the road takes her. And for the first time in a long time, she was considering making San Francisco her home. But when Ivy stumbles across and witnesses her uncle and a tattoo client brutally murdered, her life is unknowingly in danger. Ivy's first instinct is to run and leave San Francisco but out of respect to her uncle, she decides to stay and help put her uncles financial affairs with the shop and his house in order. Ivy may have not seen who the killers were but she knows their voices.
Sebastian is a former Navy SEAL and is currently working for a friend's private security firm. He is sent to San Francisco to do a job. His job is Ivy and to collect some secret information that her uncle has in possession of. As Sebastian integrates his life with Ivy, he finds himself being dangerously drawn to Ivy. There is this deep connection that he can't explained as to why he needs to be with her. Soon Sebastian and Ivy finds themselves connecting emotionally. physically and sexually. Lines begin to get blurred as Sebastian tries to battle his conscience of protecting Ivy and executing his mission. Ivy is aware that Sebastian has a secret, but she doesn't know yet how devastating it is. How far will Sebastian go to get his job done? And when new startling evidence are unraveled, Sebastian will find himself torn and at crossroad of what really happened to Ivy's uncle? Will this truth destroy Ivy and Sebastian? And when Ivy learns of his deceit, can she forgive the man who found his way into her heart?
"I wanted to fill her with me. I wanted to mark her, in a way."
Surviving Ice was a phenomenal read. If K.A. Tucker's job was to gift her readers with a book that was memorable then she did that and much more. Ms. Tucker delivered a book that consumes her readers. She takes her readers on one unforgettable journey where raw emotions and suspense were the main backbone of this story. As always the writing was beautiful, engaging, and perfection. If you are fan of romance, heart-pounding suspense, and mystery, then I highly recommend you to read this book. Surviving Ice had it all from chicanery, danger, lust, love, suspense, hope, and second chances. Ms. Tucker concluded this series with a BANG!!! She held our hearts and attention hostaged in this unforgettable tangible and palpable read!!!!!! A must read!!!! And also, I applaud Ms. Tucker for writing a heroine that is of Asian descent because there aren't many books that has a main character of different ethnicity. So if you are looking for a fresh and riveting read then look no further than Surviving Ice.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...K.A. Tucker
Hypnotic and Dangerously Addicting!!!! K.A. Tucker has truly outdone herself with her newest release Surviving Ice, the fourth and final installment of The Burying Water Series. Personally, this book happens to be my favorite of the series. Ms. Tucker had me glued to my kindle. She had me crave for more because I didn't want this book to end. Surviving Ice can only be summed up as PHENOMENAL!!!! I loved everything about this book from the writing, story line, the characters and the raw emotions that was seeping throughout the book. In this captivating and consuming novel, Ms. Tucker perfectly weaves romance, intrigue, suspense, passion and mystery. This book was literally brimming with so much intensity and raw emotions that every word, prose, and action has a way of holding your hearts and attention hostage.
"Who are you, really Sebastian? Besides the stranger who strolled in and seized my heart?"
If you have read Chasing River, we were introduced to Ivy Lee, a tattoo artist. Ivy's character intrigued me. She had this tough and rough exterior and personality that made readers like myself wanting to know more about this reclusive and resilient woman. And in Surviving Ice, Ms. Tucker captured our hearts as we got to see and know the REAL Ivy Lee. Though Ivy maybe perceived as tough tattoo badass chick, she was so much more. Behind the strong persona, there was so much depth to her character. She was strong, independent, and free spirited but she was also a woman, who was vulnerable, lovable, and beautiful inside and out. The different sides of Ivy allowed readers to fully connect to her and see her as a woman who yearns to be loved. In essence, Ms. Tucker allowed readers to see the full spectrum of the real Ivy.
When Ivy returns back to the States from Dublin, she finds herself living temporarily in San Francisco and working in her uncle's famous tattoo shop. Ivy has always been that person who was living out of her suitcase and seeing where the road takes her. And for the first time in a long time, she was considering making San Francisco her home. But when Ivy stumbles across and witnesses her uncle and a tattoo client brutally murdered, her life is unknowingly in danger. Ivy's first instinct is to run and leave San Francisco but out of respect to her uncle, she decides to stay and help put her uncles financial affairs with the shop and his house in order. Ivy may have not seen who the killers were but she knows their voices.
Sebastian is a former Navy SEAL and is currently working for a friend's private security firm. He is sent to San Francisco to do a job. His job is Ivy and to collect some secret information that her uncle has in possession of. As Sebastian integrates his life with Ivy, he finds himself being dangerously drawn to Ivy. There is this deep connection that he can't explained as to why he needs to be with her. Soon Sebastian and Ivy finds themselves connecting emotionally. physically and sexually. Lines begin to get blurred as Sebastian tries to battle his conscience of protecting Ivy and executing his mission. Ivy is aware that Sebastian has a secret, but she doesn't know yet how devastating it is. How far will Sebastian go to get his job done? And when new startling evidence are unraveled, Sebastian will find himself torn and at crossroad of what really happened to Ivy's uncle? Will this truth destroy Ivy and Sebastian? And when Ivy learns of his deceit, can she forgive the man who found his way into her heart?
"I wanted to fill her with me. I wanted to mark her, in a way."
Surviving Ice was a phenomenal read. If K.A. Tucker's job was to gift her readers with a book that was memorable then she did that and much more. Ms. Tucker delivered a book that consumes her readers. She takes her readers on one unforgettable journey where raw emotions and suspense were the main backbone of this story. As always the writing was beautiful, engaging, and perfection. If you are fan of romance, heart-pounding suspense, and mystery, then I highly recommend you to read this book. Surviving Ice had it all from chicanery, danger, lust, love, suspense, hope, and second chances. Ms. Tucker concluded this series with a BANG!!! She held our hearts and attention hostaged in this unforgettable tangible and palpable read!!!!!! A must read!!!! And also, I applaud Ms. Tucker for writing a heroine that is of Asian descent because there aren't many books that has a main character of different ethnicity. So if you are looking for a fresh and riveting read then look no further than Surviving Ice.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...K.A. Tucker
October 27, 2015
K. A. Tucker ends her Burying Water series with Surviving Ice. This is Ivy's story. The broken, damaged and scarred tattoo artist whose character we have seen throughout the series. I was looking forward to Ivy's story. I had grown to love her character.
In Chasing River, we read about Ivy leaving Dublin and landing in San Fransisco. Honestly, I was angry that she left. It didn't make any sense to me and I was hoping for answers in this book. What we learn is that Ivy is sort of a drifter, she chooses to not lay down roots and gets anxious when she stays in one place for too long. As well, she doesn't choose to get herself into a committed relationship. Short, one night stands with no strings attached, are her norm. While I felt some loose ends were not necessarily tied up between her disappearance in Chasing River and this book, I see her need to be free and how that definitely is a huge part of her personality.
Now in San Fransisco, Ivy had been living with and working for her uncle since she left Ireland. As soon as she begins to believe she could possibly stay in San Fransisco for the long-term, her uncle is murdered and she is left as the only witness, and responsible party for his house and shop. Feeling the need to quickly sell the house and shop and get the heck out of there, Ivy begins to renovate both. Little does she know that her uncle was hiding a secret, one that has now put a target on her head.
Sebastian has been called to clean up the mess made by two members of the Alliance security company. His job is to find some damaging evidence which could potentially put Alliance out of business, and kill Ivy if she knows too much.
Getting to know Ivy under the guise of needing tattoo, he soon realizes there is more to her bristly personality than she leads on. He too isn't one for relationships, preferring one night stands, to long-term commitments. His job doesn't necessarily allow him to be the committed type. But there is something about Ivy that he can't deny.
These two were perfect for each other. Ivy challenged Sebastian and kept him on his toes. Sebastian was smart and able to keep up with her sarcasm. His protective instincts provided Ivy security and allowed her to learn to trust.
The first part of the story was a little slow for me. I found my thoughts drifting sometimes. However, the last 50 or so percent, the pace picked up along with the intrigue, and I began to enjoy the story. I would most definitely recommend it to fans of the series.
ARC graciously provided by Atria Books in exchange for an honest review.
In Chasing River, we read about Ivy leaving Dublin and landing in San Fransisco. Honestly, I was angry that she left. It didn't make any sense to me and I was hoping for answers in this book. What we learn is that Ivy is sort of a drifter, she chooses to not lay down roots and gets anxious when she stays in one place for too long. As well, she doesn't choose to get herself into a committed relationship. Short, one night stands with no strings attached, are her norm. While I felt some loose ends were not necessarily tied up between her disappearance in Chasing River and this book, I see her need to be free and how that definitely is a huge part of her personality.
Now in San Fransisco, Ivy had been living with and working for her uncle since she left Ireland. As soon as she begins to believe she could possibly stay in San Fransisco for the long-term, her uncle is murdered and she is left as the only witness, and responsible party for his house and shop. Feeling the need to quickly sell the house and shop and get the heck out of there, Ivy begins to renovate both. Little does she know that her uncle was hiding a secret, one that has now put a target on her head.
Sebastian has been called to clean up the mess made by two members of the Alliance security company. His job is to find some damaging evidence which could potentially put Alliance out of business, and kill Ivy if she knows too much.
Getting to know Ivy under the guise of needing tattoo, he soon realizes there is more to her bristly personality than she leads on. He too isn't one for relationships, preferring one night stands, to long-term commitments. His job doesn't necessarily allow him to be the committed type. But there is something about Ivy that he can't deny.
These two were perfect for each other. Ivy challenged Sebastian and kept him on his toes. Sebastian was smart and able to keep up with her sarcasm. His protective instincts provided Ivy security and allowed her to learn to trust.
The first part of the story was a little slow for me. I found my thoughts drifting sometimes. However, the last 50 or so percent, the pace picked up along with the intrigue, and I began to enjoy the story. I would most definitely recommend it to fans of the series.
ARC graciously provided by Atria Books in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2024
Interesting story and characters!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚🖤
Steam: 🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😊😄😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Ivy - she is a tattoo artist with wanderlust in her soul. She picks up every two to four months and moves from place to place. However, she thought she had finally found a home with her uncle Ned. She lived rent free at his house and worked at his tattoo shop in San Francisco. She was there for over seven months and had no inkling to move on. When all the sudden one day, Ned and a client were murdered in the shop. Ivy was hiding in the back at the time.
The Hero: Sebastian (a.k.a. Ice) - he is a former Navy SEAL who works as a mercenary/assassin for Alliance, the biggest private security firm in world. His boss, Bentley, was his commanding officer when they were in Afghanistan. While laying low in Santorini, he gets a call from Bentley to return to California in order to fix a situation that has come up. A tattoo artist who heard too much from a disgruntled employee of Alliance has tried to blackmail Bentley and the guys he sent to get the video evidence, botched things by killing the guy before finding the evidence.
The Story: Sebastian gets the job to find the missing video tape (Ned didn’t believe in any newer security system) and he also was given the job to determine if Ivy knows anything and to take care of her as well if she turns out to be a loose end. He is not fond of having to possibly kill a woman since most of his jobs involve middle aged men with morally grey characters. He refuses to kill an innocent woman but has to determine what she knows and if she is a threat to Alliance Private Security. The company gets jobs from the government and CIA to do things that can’t be done by the military and the video has evidence that Alliance may have been involved in torturing prisoners for information.
I really liked the characters, especially Ivy. She was quirky and fierce. Sebastian is a pretty good guy, for an assassin. He lived by his own set of morals, but at least he has morals. He also has his own issues that he was dealing with. He had been engaged once, but after that didn’t work out, he never saw himself as the settling down type. Both of these characters are wanderers, who never stay put in one place so they are kind of perfect for each other.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Sebastian York and Olivia Song. Olivia has a bit of a harsh voice which is kind of deep for a woman, though it does fit the character of Ivy. Though I don’t really like her voice for Sebastian. Sebastian York is always a great narrator. He has a deep and gravelly voice which I really like, and he is great at doing different voices for different characters.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚🖤
Steam: 🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😊😄😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Ivy - she is a tattoo artist with wanderlust in her soul. She picks up every two to four months and moves from place to place. However, she thought she had finally found a home with her uncle Ned. She lived rent free at his house and worked at his tattoo shop in San Francisco. She was there for over seven months and had no inkling to move on. When all the sudden one day, Ned and a client were murdered in the shop. Ivy was hiding in the back at the time.
The Hero: Sebastian (a.k.a. Ice) - he is a former Navy SEAL who works as a mercenary/assassin for Alliance, the biggest private security firm in world. His boss, Bentley, was his commanding officer when they were in Afghanistan. While laying low in Santorini, he gets a call from Bentley to return to California in order to fix a situation that has come up. A tattoo artist who heard too much from a disgruntled employee of Alliance has tried to blackmail Bentley and the guys he sent to get the video evidence, botched things by killing the guy before finding the evidence.
The Story: Sebastian gets the job to find the missing video tape (Ned didn’t believe in any newer security system) and he also was given the job to determine if Ivy knows anything and to take care of her as well if she turns out to be a loose end. He is not fond of having to possibly kill a woman since most of his jobs involve middle aged men with morally grey characters. He refuses to kill an innocent woman but has to determine what she knows and if she is a threat to Alliance Private Security. The company gets jobs from the government and CIA to do things that can’t be done by the military and the video has evidence that Alliance may have been involved in torturing prisoners for information.
I really liked the characters, especially Ivy. She was quirky and fierce. Sebastian is a pretty good guy, for an assassin. He lived by his own set of morals, but at least he has morals. He also has his own issues that he was dealing with. He had been engaged once, but after that didn’t work out, he never saw himself as the settling down type. Both of these characters are wanderers, who never stay put in one place so they are kind of perfect for each other.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Sebastian York and Olivia Song. Olivia has a bit of a harsh voice which is kind of deep for a woman, though it does fit the character of Ivy. Though I don’t really like her voice for Sebastian. Sebastian York is always a great narrator. He has a deep and gravelly voice which I really like, and he is great at doing different voices for different characters.
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November 12, 2015
Surviving Ice is a suspense ridden tale which engrosses the reader, while captivating them with a titillating and slow building romance between our main characters.
Ivy is a drifter. Never staying in one place long enough to form attachments or put down roots. Currently residing in San Francisco, working at her uncle's tattoo shop. Ivy finds herself unsettled after her uncle's brutal murder, of which she was a witness to. When her flight instincts kick in, she becomes perturbed, because she must settle his affairs before taking off.
"Ice is beautiful and enticing; cold and hard and uncompromising."
I loved the way K.A. Tucker portrayed Ivy. Despite being a tough nut to crack, Ivy's vulnerabilities shone throughout the story and her personality was something to be admired. She was independent and strong willed, fierce and seriously intense. Yet, surrounding her tough exterior, she was a soft hearted person, looking for a home. Somewhere to call her own, someone to cherish and simply WANT her.
"Who are you, really Sebastian? Besides the stranger who strolled in and seized my heart?"
Sebastian is a former Navy Seal. After an "other than honourable" discharge from the military, he has found success working in private security for an old military friend and mentor. When he receives the call to return to his home state of California for a special mission, he returns home to work a job that will be the catalyst for changing his life forever.
“She’s lethal but sexy, quiet but strong.”
Ivy became his mission, and in the end they built a friendship and a desire so intense that Sebastian's mission changed, and Ivy became his everything.
Truths will be revealed, old friendships destroyed and loyalties will be questioned. Family ties will become stronger and love will prevail. These two, Ivy and Sebastian, were/are the perfect pair. They made my heart soar, gave me goosebumps, and ultimately made me understand that even the toughest of persons, always need love. Never judge a book by it's cover. Ya know what I mean lol.
K.A. Tucker you outdid yourself. You hooked me from my first meeting with Ivy. I love these tough women. So vibrant and full of energy. Thank you for letting me experience Ivy.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
Ivy is a drifter. Never staying in one place long enough to form attachments or put down roots. Currently residing in San Francisco, working at her uncle's tattoo shop. Ivy finds herself unsettled after her uncle's brutal murder, of which she was a witness to. When her flight instincts kick in, she becomes perturbed, because she must settle his affairs before taking off.
"Ice is beautiful and enticing; cold and hard and uncompromising."
I loved the way K.A. Tucker portrayed Ivy. Despite being a tough nut to crack, Ivy's vulnerabilities shone throughout the story and her personality was something to be admired. She was independent and strong willed, fierce and seriously intense. Yet, surrounding her tough exterior, she was a soft hearted person, looking for a home. Somewhere to call her own, someone to cherish and simply WANT her.
"Who are you, really Sebastian? Besides the stranger who strolled in and seized my heart?"
Sebastian is a former Navy Seal. After an "other than honourable" discharge from the military, he has found success working in private security for an old military friend and mentor. When he receives the call to return to his home state of California for a special mission, he returns home to work a job that will be the catalyst for changing his life forever.
“She’s lethal but sexy, quiet but strong.”
Ivy became his mission, and in the end they built a friendship and a desire so intense that Sebastian's mission changed, and Ivy became his everything.
Truths will be revealed, old friendships destroyed and loyalties will be questioned. Family ties will become stronger and love will prevail. These two, Ivy and Sebastian, were/are the perfect pair. They made my heart soar, gave me goosebumps, and ultimately made me understand that even the toughest of persons, always need love. Never judge a book by it's cover. Ya know what I mean lol.
K.A. Tucker you outdid yourself. You hooked me from my first meeting with Ivy. I love these tough women. So vibrant and full of energy. Thank you for letting me experience Ivy.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
October 31, 2015
4 'She is strong' Stars
Ivy Lee is back in San Francisco working at her uncles shop and, for the first time in her life, she's thinking of staying. Normally moving around from place to place and never making connections wherever she goes, the idea of sticking around is a little scary to her. But then things go horribly wrong and she's a witness to her uncle's murder and is now thrown into a world of deceit and crime.
Sebastian works for a private security company that does things a little differently than the rest. The guys working for this company aren't always the good guys and they sometimes have to do things that not everyone is going to agree with. Sebastian's newest assignment is to get close to Ivy and find out what she knows about the secrets her uncle was hiding and if she knows anything than he has to eliminate the threat. But once he meets the mysterious Ivy, he knows he will never be able to hurt her.
This book really amped up the suspense aspect of this series and it was amazing. I loved how there was so much unknown going on and so many big decisions that had to be made. It was a nail biter, that's for sure. I was so concerned about what would happen by the end and I could not put this book down until I knew what would happen. I loved how there was suspense but that part of the book didn't take away from the romance at all. That didn't stop me from going a little crazy and trying to figure out what would end the story though.
The characters were amazing and I really enjoyed both Sebastian and Ivy. Ivy was really tough and had a 'I don't give a shit' attitude that wasn't just some front she put on for people. She was just really that strong. She did have a vulnerable side, though, and that side was so different and hidden for so long that when she finally let it show it was this explosion of emotions. Sebastian was there to help her though and I loved him for it. He had a really conflicting job and he himself had a hard time deciding if he was the good guy or the bad guy, but Ivy knew that he was the always on the good side, even when that meant doing things he didn't really want to.
Together Ivy and Sebastian and I thought they were perfect for each other. They both had those hidden emotions that they couldn't even let out around themselves but when they were together those emotions burst free. I can't say they were my favorite couple of this series but they are a close second and seriously hot!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and this series and I want everyone I know to read. So watch out people because I may have to kidnap ya'll and force you to start this series!
Ivy Lee is back in San Francisco working at her uncles shop and, for the first time in her life, she's thinking of staying. Normally moving around from place to place and never making connections wherever she goes, the idea of sticking around is a little scary to her. But then things go horribly wrong and she's a witness to her uncle's murder and is now thrown into a world of deceit and crime.
Sebastian works for a private security company that does things a little differently than the rest. The guys working for this company aren't always the good guys and they sometimes have to do things that not everyone is going to agree with. Sebastian's newest assignment is to get close to Ivy and find out what she knows about the secrets her uncle was hiding and if she knows anything than he has to eliminate the threat. But once he meets the mysterious Ivy, he knows he will never be able to hurt her.
This book really amped up the suspense aspect of this series and it was amazing. I loved how there was so much unknown going on and so many big decisions that had to be made. It was a nail biter, that's for sure. I was so concerned about what would happen by the end and I could not put this book down until I knew what would happen. I loved how there was suspense but that part of the book didn't take away from the romance at all. That didn't stop me from going a little crazy and trying to figure out what would end the story though.
The characters were amazing and I really enjoyed both Sebastian and Ivy. Ivy was really tough and had a 'I don't give a shit' attitude that wasn't just some front she put on for people. She was just really that strong. She did have a vulnerable side, though, and that side was so different and hidden for so long that when she finally let it show it was this explosion of emotions. Sebastian was there to help her though and I loved him for it. He had a really conflicting job and he himself had a hard time deciding if he was the good guy or the bad guy, but Ivy knew that he was the always on the good side, even when that meant doing things he didn't really want to.
Together Ivy and Sebastian and I thought they were perfect for each other. They both had those hidden emotions that they couldn't even let out around themselves but when they were together those emotions burst free. I can't say they were my favorite couple of this series but they are a close second and seriously hot!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and this series and I want everyone I know to read. So watch out people because I may have to kidnap ya'll and force you to start this series!
December 27, 2015
Update 12/27/15 - Surviving Ice was one of my Top 10 Picks of 2015. See what other books made my list on
Badass Book Reviews.
This was just what I needed: A good story with well developed characters.
I've come to expect great stories from K.A. Tucker. All that after only reading Chasing River earlier this year. And guess what? I gave that book 5 stars as well. Surviving Ice is the fourth book in the author's Burying Water series. Now for those of you with book OCD, each book CAN be read as a stand alone book and out of order. I started with book 3 in this series and I am really looking forward to going back and reading the earlier books in the series.
So what made this book so wonderful?
1)It's told in alternating first person points of views of the main characters. The reader is literally inside Ivy and Sebastien's heads. It's a great way to learn their motivations and understand their character and feel empathy for both.
2)Fantastic Main characters - I adored Ivy and Sebastien. Ivy is a talented tattoo artist and while she is a free spirit, she is put into a position where she must assess her life. She's tough and fierce and even the scary biker guys respect her. Sebastien is mysterious, a trained mercenary/assassin/clean up guy. There is an attraction, not insta-love. A nice slow burn type of attraction.
3)Great supporting cast. The characters that surround Ivy are exactly what I imagined biker dudes to be. Big, beefy, tattooed - yes, I understand that is stereotypical, but it works. I loved how they all rallied around Ivy when she needed them.
If you have not yet had a chance to read any of K.A. Tucker's books, it may be time to pick some of them up. I know that I will.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews. Check it out!
This was just what I needed: A good story with well developed characters.
I've come to expect great stories from K.A. Tucker. All that after only reading Chasing River earlier this year. And guess what? I gave that book 5 stars as well. Surviving Ice is the fourth book in the author's Burying Water series. Now for those of you with book OCD, each book CAN be read as a stand alone book and out of order. I started with book 3 in this series and I am really looking forward to going back and reading the earlier books in the series.
So what made this book so wonderful?
1)It's told in alternating first person points of views of the main characters. The reader is literally inside Ivy and Sebastien's heads. It's a great way to learn their motivations and understand their character and feel empathy for both.
2)Fantastic Main characters - I adored Ivy and Sebastien. Ivy is a talented tattoo artist and while she is a free spirit, she is put into a position where she must assess her life. She's tough and fierce and even the scary biker guys respect her. Sebastien is mysterious, a trained mercenary/assassin/clean up guy. There is an attraction, not insta-love. A nice slow burn type of attraction.
3)Great supporting cast. The characters that surround Ivy are exactly what I imagined biker dudes to be. Big, beefy, tattooed - yes, I understand that is stereotypical, but it works. I loved how they all rallied around Ivy when she needed them.
If you have not yet had a chance to read any of K.A. Tucker's books, it may be time to pick some of them up. I know that I will.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews. Check it out!
March 19, 2023
It’s always a good time to reread this book!!!
If you’re in the mood for a suspenseful, tension-filled romance that never goes overboard on the suspense or the tension and forgets about the romance, this whole series is an awesome choice. I love all of the four books, but this one is beyond addicting and definitely my favorite.
The main female character, Ivy, was such an intriguing character in the previous books. She’s a very stubborn, independent, feisty, badass tattoo artist who would pick up and move to another country just because she could, and refused to form meaningful attachments to anyone. I honestly couldn’t imagine the romantic interest that would feel right for her. And yet, Sebastian just complemented her in a way that blew me away.
The plot itself is very heavy (and just gets heavier with every plot twist), but I promise this is not a heavy read. Ivy and Sebastian’s dynamic just eclipses everything to me and always makes this a fun journey.
At the start of the book, Ivy witnesses the tragic, brutal murder of her uncle at his tattoo shop. What she doesn’t know is that he was in possession of dangerous information involving a private security firm called Alliance, which employed many ex-military men and had government contracts all over the world. The information was contained in a tape which he presumably hid and no one can seem to locate. In fact, the guys who murdered him were looking for it.
In order to safely recover the tape and lay everything to rest, the owner of Alliance calls in its best employee, former Navy SEAL Sebastian, to not only find the tape but also get close to Ivy and see whether she needs to be eliminated too.
Of course, since Ivy is a tattoo artist, the easiest way for Sebastian get close to her is to convince her to tattoo his for roughly seven hours. This involves his shirt on the floor and very compromising positions all around. 10/10.
He quickly comes to care for her and finds himself protecting from all the threats and other people who are after this tape by sticking to her side 24/7. Before you know it, he has basically moved in with her.
Sebastian is very damaged from the things he’s seen in the war. He’s also extremely capable, cool-headed and in control all the time. Ivy struggles with that at the beginning but also feels a little relieved to know that she’s not alone, and that someone is helping her handle things for once.
Seeing Sebastian have to break out of his shell and compromise his whole life for Ivy makes my heart sing every time. This is full-on catnip to me.
Again, if you’re in the mood for suspense but also steaminess, this is the book!
If you’re in the mood for a suspenseful, tension-filled romance that never goes overboard on the suspense or the tension and forgets about the romance, this whole series is an awesome choice. I love all of the four books, but this one is beyond addicting and definitely my favorite.
The main female character, Ivy, was such an intriguing character in the previous books. She’s a very stubborn, independent, feisty, badass tattoo artist who would pick up and move to another country just because she could, and refused to form meaningful attachments to anyone. I honestly couldn’t imagine the romantic interest that would feel right for her. And yet, Sebastian just complemented her in a way that blew me away.
The plot itself is very heavy (and just gets heavier with every plot twist), but I promise this is not a heavy read. Ivy and Sebastian’s dynamic just eclipses everything to me and always makes this a fun journey.
At the start of the book, Ivy witnesses the tragic, brutal murder of her uncle at his tattoo shop. What she doesn’t know is that he was in possession of dangerous information involving a private security firm called Alliance, which employed many ex-military men and had government contracts all over the world. The information was contained in a tape which he presumably hid and no one can seem to locate. In fact, the guys who murdered him were looking for it.
In order to safely recover the tape and lay everything to rest, the owner of Alliance calls in its best employee, former Navy SEAL Sebastian, to not only find the tape but also get close to Ivy and see whether she needs to be eliminated too.
Of course, since Ivy is a tattoo artist, the easiest way for Sebastian get close to her is to convince her to tattoo his for roughly seven hours. This involves his shirt on the floor and very compromising positions all around. 10/10.
He quickly comes to care for her and finds himself protecting from all the threats and other people who are after this tape by sticking to her side 24/7. Before you know it, he has basically moved in with her.
Sebastian is very damaged from the things he’s seen in the war. He’s also extremely capable, cool-headed and in control all the time. Ivy struggles with that at the beginning but also feels a little relieved to know that she’s not alone, and that someone is helping her handle things for once.
Seeing Sebastian have to break out of his shell and compromise his whole life for Ivy makes my heart sing every time. This is full-on catnip to me.
Again, if you’re in the mood for suspense but also steaminess, this is the book!
February 8, 2017
K.A. Tucker brings on the action in Surviving Ice, the final installment of her Burying Water series. Much like the first book in the series, I was hooked from the first page of this one and read most of this book in just a matter of hours.
This book had that same forbidden love vibe that the first two books in the series had, which I totally enjoyed. Sebastian, a former Navy SEAL turned private security firm contractor, is hired to investigate—and kill if necessary, Ivy. Her uncle's death could be linked to some bad business. His plan is to befriend her and get close to her to find out as much information as he can, and hopefully, not put a bullet in her. But what he finds is this completely independent, beautiful mess of a woman he doesn't want to leave or harm. Which says a lot considering he hasn't stayed in one place for over six years.
The hardened and tough Ivy finally met her match in Sebastian Riker, the elusive and mysterious man who appeared out of nowhere. In the acknowledgements, Tucker briefly mentions how important it was to find someone who was Ivy's equal and could crack her shell. I think Sebastian was the perfect choice.
Not long ago, I wrote a blog post called "Book Plots/Situations I Want to Read Now" and I was thrilled to find out that this book (sort of) fit into one of my situations!
Both Ivy and Sebastian were complex characters with whole heck of a lot internal struggle. They didn't easily divulge anything about themselves and both had their reasons for being so aloof and distant. But the two of them together were just perfect for each other. I think that's what made the love and respect that developed between the two of them more real to me.
It took me a long time to warm up to Sebastian, and by the end, I still wasn't quite sure of him. But for Ivy, I think he was her person. I couldn't really get past Sebastian's penchant for sleeping with prostitutes around the world or the fact that Ivy didn't ask about his sexual history before they had sex without a condom. But perhaps we're supposed to believe that she trusted him enough to know that he wouldn't have done that without a thorough check.
Even though both were physically attracted to each other from the get go, they weren't looking for anything resembling a relationship. Though, that's exactly where they ended up. I that sort of "I don't want this but I want this" tension!
I wanted more explanation as to why Ivy left Ireland so suddenly. There was definitely something going on between Ivy and Rowen, even Ivy admits that. Though it appeared she left Dublin soon after he was injured in the bombing, leaving Rowen with a broken heart. It seems like the readers were asked to believe that Ivy just got the itch to move again and/or didn't want to actually experience the pain of dealing with someone she cared about hurt and mangled. I wanted that to be explained a little bit more because without it Ivy kind of looked like a jerk.
I really enjoyed this book. My complaint with all the books in this series is how quickly they end. There is a ton of action and heartbreak until 90% and then everything gets wrapped up really quickly. I want just a little more time for my heart to settle into these characters' happiness before I say goodbye. Each couple went through so much to get to their destination and wanted a little more time with them.
K.A. Tucker has a special gift of writing addictive stories with a vivid setting and interesting characters that will pull you in. I am currently reading her upcoming release, He Will Be My Ruin and will post my review when I finish. :)
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November 13, 2017
Surviving Ice es el cuarto y ultimo libro de la serie Burying Water escrita por K. A. Tucker y narra la historia de Ivy, un personaje secundario en las novelas anteriores y Sebastian, un nuevo personaje.
Esta saga en un principio no me parecio nada memorable, el primer libro fue entretenido pero no me dejo lo suficientemente impresionada como para continuar leyendo su continuacion, no lei la segunda parte hasta meses mas tarde pero desde entonces se ha convertido en una de las mejores series que he leido este año, definitivamente son historias que van de menos a mas.
Esta ultima parte fue maravillosa, desde el libro anterior le tome mucho cariño a Ivy, me parecio un personaje femenino diferente y refrescante, por lo que estaba segura de que su novela no me decepcionaria, ademas Sebastian fue la pareja perfecta para ella, se complementaban de una forma tan ideal que me enamoraron desde su primera escena, eran divertidos y muy tiernos juntos.
La trama de esta historia me tomo por sorpresa, al leer la sinopsis esperaba que el libro tuviera un desarrollo distinto, pero eso solo consiguio que me gustara aun mas la lectura.
Admito que la puntuacion puede ser un poco excesiva pero ahora mismo estoy con el hype tan subido que no puedo ponerle menos estrellas, Sebastian e Ivy son perfectos y atipicos.
Obviamente el acaba de entrar en mis lista de BookBoyfriends, pero como no hacerlo cuando tengo debilidad por los protagonistas torturados y si encima es un soldado ya no puedo resistirme.
Le quite media estrella porque el final me resulto un poco precipitado, algo caracteristico de esta saga.
4.5 Estrellas!!
October 3, 2015
While not my favourite of this series, I still quite liked this addition. Ivy is an interesting character, although I felt that how she acted in regards to the love interest didn't fit her perceived personalty . However I suppose the excuse for this could be love.
I liked the plot, although it did seem slow at times, overall I was interested in it. The romance was nice, although a bit unrealistic in my opinion. At the end of the day, this book did keep my interest, the writing flowed nicely and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Buy, Borrow or Bin Verdict: Borrow
Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2015
4.5 "Target or Game Changer?" Stars! I have read each and every one of the Burying Water Series and have greatly enjoyed them all. Without a doubt, KA Tucker is very talented romantic suspense writer. Surviving Ice is no different.
Throughout this series we had gotten a peak at the tough-shelled, tatted heroine Ivy, so I had been eager to hear her story. And what a story it is! Moreover, I was equally pleased to find that the assassin for hire hero, who works for a private security firm that does clandestine government style missions, had an equally compelling story to tell. Perhaps the only sad point of this book, is that it is the last of the series. I for one wish there were more books to come, but I'm sure no matter what KA Tucker chooses to write next, it will be equally as compelling and engrossing as this series has been.
Ivy is back in San Francisco. She is living with her uncle and working at his tattoo shop. Thinking she just might finally have found a place she wants to stay put in for a while, she is blind sighted by what happens next. Her witnessing of a gruesome crime--her uncle's murder.
Following that, she is desperate to move on, but left with no choice but to clean up her uncle's shop and prepare his shop and home for sale. It is during this transition period that Ivy meets the secretive, but sexy Sebastian. And that questions begin to arise as to exactly why her uncle was murdered.
Sebastian is on a mission. One of many that he has undertaken at the hands of the private, clandestine security firm that he works for. Never being in one place for long, and doing the jobs that he assumes the public never really wants to know occur to maintain the peace, comes easy to this former Navy Seal. But he has finally been given a mission that he feels like he must question.
When things are not quite what they seem, what will the fiercely independent, Ivy and military trained commando, Sebastian, choose to do? Will they be able to fight their natural inclinations to take flight, in the case of Ivy, and follow orders, in the case of Sebastian; or, will they for the first time in their lives fight for something that could mean so much more?
Entertaining and enthralling, lovers of suspense titles will be captivated by the suspenseful plot of this story. At the same time, the romance between this--somewhat unlikely and yet equally explosive--pair is sure to keep your romance lust sated.
Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
Throughout this series we had gotten a peak at the tough-shelled, tatted heroine Ivy, so I had been eager to hear her story. And what a story it is! Moreover, I was equally pleased to find that the assassin for hire hero, who works for a private security firm that does clandestine government style missions, had an equally compelling story to tell. Perhaps the only sad point of this book, is that it is the last of the series. I for one wish there were more books to come, but I'm sure no matter what KA Tucker chooses to write next, it will be equally as compelling and engrossing as this series has been.
Ivy is back in San Francisco. She is living with her uncle and working at his tattoo shop. Thinking she just might finally have found a place she wants to stay put in for a while, she is blind sighted by what happens next. Her witnessing of a gruesome crime--her uncle's murder.
Following that, she is desperate to move on, but left with no choice but to clean up her uncle's shop and prepare his shop and home for sale. It is during this transition period that Ivy meets the secretive, but sexy Sebastian. And that questions begin to arise as to exactly why her uncle was murdered.
Sebastian is on a mission. One of many that he has undertaken at the hands of the private, clandestine security firm that he works for. Never being in one place for long, and doing the jobs that he assumes the public never really wants to know occur to maintain the peace, comes easy to this former Navy Seal. But he has finally been given a mission that he feels like he must question.
When things are not quite what they seem, what will the fiercely independent, Ivy and military trained commando, Sebastian, choose to do? Will they be able to fight their natural inclinations to take flight, in the case of Ivy, and follow orders, in the case of Sebastian; or, will they for the first time in their lives fight for something that could mean so much more?
Entertaining and enthralling, lovers of suspense titles will be captivated by the suspenseful plot of this story. At the same time, the romance between this--somewhat unlikely and yet equally explosive--pair is sure to keep your romance lust sated.
Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2015
I've really enjoyed this series! And this insatllment is no exception.
Survivng Ice is a wonderfully suspensful adventure. I was really blown away by how the author was able to keep me on my toes. The elements of mystery were excellently woven into this a-typical love story.
The characters are refreshing as well. I was a little concerned that I wasn't going to connect with Ivy. In the previous books of this series, she was portrayed as cold & sometimes even callous. But, as a main character I was drawn to her strength, even if she was still a little enigmatic. Sebastian relly peeked my interest as well. He's challenging and intelligent and charming. I wouldn't have thought to put these 2 characters together ... but Ms Tucker figured out how perfect they would actually be together. Very well done!
Overall, a fantastic read!
Order: http://amzn.to/1VjoLGC
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Survivng Ice is a wonderfully suspensful adventure. I was really blown away by how the author was able to keep me on my toes. The elements of mystery were excellently woven into this a-typical love story.
The characters are refreshing as well. I was a little concerned that I wasn't going to connect with Ivy. In the previous books of this series, she was portrayed as cold & sometimes even callous. But, as a main character I was drawn to her strength, even if she was still a little enigmatic. Sebastian relly peeked my interest as well. He's challenging and intelligent and charming. I wouldn't have thought to put these 2 characters together ... but Ms Tucker figured out how perfect they would actually be together. Very well done!
Overall, a fantastic read!
Order: http://amzn.to/1VjoLGC
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
November 11, 2015
4 uniquely edgy stars
This is the fourth and final book in KA Tucker’s Burying Water series, and it brings something really different. While it does fit in nicely with the rest of the books of the series, it is only loosely tied and can easily be read as a standalone.
Ivy Lee was appeared in the last book – Chasing River. She is from the same home town as the other characters in the series, but has escaped small-town living to live her life on her own terms. She is a very gifted tattoo artist and makes a good living with it, travelling from place to place, never putting down roots or committing to anybody or anything. She has recently returned to San Francisco and is working with her much-beloved Uncle at his shop, and is starting to think about settling down for the first time in her life. But then her Uncle and a client are brutally murdered in his shop, with her as the only (partial) witness, and her life is thrown into turmoil once again as she is left reluctantly handling his affairs when all she wants to do is run away.
Sebastian (AKA ‘Ice’) is an ex-Navy SEAL and current badass. He works for an old military friend who runs a private security company, taking highly dangerous, highly secret jobs all over the world and doing his bit to help make the world a safer place. His latest job is to retrieve the security video from the shop of a tattoo artist which holds a confession which could have far-reaching repercussions, and that includes getting to know the artist’s niece in order to get the video and find out what she knows about its content.
It’s a fantastic set up. The crime element and the shadiness of Sebastian’s role in the story adds a nice sense of intensity, and from the moment that Ivy and Sebastian meet, their chemistry is palpable and you know it’s going to be a wild ride.
Ivy is a unique heroine. She is heavily tattooed, has half of her head shaved, and seems quite cold and closed off. She hasn’t been through any trauma or have any past demons, she just is who she is, and she is a very self-assured woman who makes no apologies for who she is, and I love her strength and confidence. Similarly, Sebastian’s experience at war has left him a changed man and he has become an emotionless loner who lives a life without any attachments.
This isn’t a conventional love story. Because of who Ivy and Sebastian are, it’s dark and gritty and there are no flowery romantic declarations. The romance is definitely there though. They share an instant attraction, and the sexual tension builds brilliantly when Sebastian hires Ivy to do a large tattoo for him. They banter and quip, and even though they don’t open up and talk about feelings, there is a definite connection there and they realise that they have a lot in common. Sebastian infiltrates himself into Ivy’s life, and their physical attraction slowly becomes something more.
But as they fall for each other, Sebastian’s secret continues to plague him. Ivy doesn’t ask (it’s not who they are), but she knows something is going on. Can their new-found relationship survive his deception? Can he keep them both safe from the danger that continues to threaten her? And are these two enough for each other to stop their wandering and find something permanent together?
I really enjoyed this book. Like I said, it’s not a conventional romance, and these two aren’t your usual couple, but I really liked the feeling of danger and edginess that underpinned the story. The crime element ties it in to the other books in the series, but Ivy and Sebastian are so very different, it makes the story unique, and I really like that. KA Tucker’s writing is spot on as usual, getting us right into the hearts of her characters and even though they aren’t the overly-emotional types, there is a lot of heart to this book, and it’s a really nice balance of well-developed characters living a gritty/alternative lifestyle, crime, mystery, sizzling hot chemistry, and edgy romance.
It’s a great read – 4 stars.
This is the fourth and final book in KA Tucker’s Burying Water series, and it brings something really different. While it does fit in nicely with the rest of the books of the series, it is only loosely tied and can easily be read as a standalone.
Ivy Lee was appeared in the last book – Chasing River. She is from the same home town as the other characters in the series, but has escaped small-town living to live her life on her own terms. She is a very gifted tattoo artist and makes a good living with it, travelling from place to place, never putting down roots or committing to anybody or anything. She has recently returned to San Francisco and is working with her much-beloved Uncle at his shop, and is starting to think about settling down for the first time in her life. But then her Uncle and a client are brutally murdered in his shop, with her as the only (partial) witness, and her life is thrown into turmoil once again as she is left reluctantly handling his affairs when all she wants to do is run away.
Sebastian (AKA ‘Ice’) is an ex-Navy SEAL and current badass. He works for an old military friend who runs a private security company, taking highly dangerous, highly secret jobs all over the world and doing his bit to help make the world a safer place. His latest job is to retrieve the security video from the shop of a tattoo artist which holds a confession which could have far-reaching repercussions, and that includes getting to know the artist’s niece in order to get the video and find out what she knows about its content.
It’s a fantastic set up. The crime element and the shadiness of Sebastian’s role in the story adds a nice sense of intensity, and from the moment that Ivy and Sebastian meet, their chemistry is palpable and you know it’s going to be a wild ride.
Ivy is a unique heroine. She is heavily tattooed, has half of her head shaved, and seems quite cold and closed off. She hasn’t been through any trauma or have any past demons, she just is who she is, and she is a very self-assured woman who makes no apologies for who she is, and I love her strength and confidence. Similarly, Sebastian’s experience at war has left him a changed man and he has become an emotionless loner who lives a life without any attachments.
She's good at hiding her emotions.
Just like I am.
This isn’t a conventional love story. Because of who Ivy and Sebastian are, it’s dark and gritty and there are no flowery romantic declarations. The romance is definitely there though. They share an instant attraction, and the sexual tension builds brilliantly when Sebastian hires Ivy to do a large tattoo for him. They banter and quip, and even though they don’t open up and talk about feelings, there is a definite connection there and they realise that they have a lot in common. Sebastian infiltrates himself into Ivy’s life, and their physical attraction slowly becomes something more.
Maybe it’s that the stakes are somehow higher now than they were yesterday. Maybe it’s that she’s starting to care. Maybe it’s that I’m starting to care.
But as they fall for each other, Sebastian’s secret continues to plague him. Ivy doesn’t ask (it’s not who they are), but she knows something is going on. Can their new-found relationship survive his deception? Can he keep them both safe from the danger that continues to threaten her? And are these two enough for each other to stop their wandering and find something permanent together?
Who are you, really, Sebastian? Besides the stranger who strolled in and seized my heart?
I really enjoyed this book. Like I said, it’s not a conventional romance, and these two aren’t your usual couple, but I really liked the feeling of danger and edginess that underpinned the story. The crime element ties it in to the other books in the series, but Ivy and Sebastian are so very different, it makes the story unique, and I really like that. KA Tucker’s writing is spot on as usual, getting us right into the hearts of her characters and even though they aren’t the overly-emotional types, there is a lot of heart to this book, and it’s a really nice balance of well-developed characters living a gritty/alternative lifestyle, crime, mystery, sizzling hot chemistry, and edgy romance.
It’s a great read – 4 stars.
October 15, 2015
Suriving Ice is the fourth book in the Burying Water series. All of the books are related, but feature different couples. If you are following the series you know Ivy Lee. She is a fiery, independent tattoo artist that doesn’t take anyone’s crap. She is back in California when we meet her again, working at her Uncle’s tattoo shop.
Ivy thinks she may have found a home there and plans to stay, completely contradictory to her usual temporary stays. In one night everything changes, her uncle is murdered while is hiding in the tattoo shop watching on the surveillance feed.
Sabastian is a former Navy Seal who now works for Alliance, a security company. Alliance isn’t your typical security company and some of the things they do aren’t exactly legal, but they work for the greater good. Sabastian is sent to investigate Ivy and retrieve a surveillance tape for Alliance. He hasn’t given years to this company and trusted them completely, now he isn’t so sure.
Ivy and Sabastian have a lot in common in terms of relationships, both aren’t looking forever and don’t trust easily. But everything changes when Ivy needs someone to trust and lean and Sabastian is looking for the truth and finds it in Ivy.
I want to say these two are an unlikely pair, but I actually think they are perfect for each other. The only thing that makes them unlikely is the fact that neither want to find someone. They are both determined, strong willed and don’t open up easily. However, together they are able to find that missing piece in each other.
I love books that surprise me and Surviving Ice did just that. I was completely into the story and couldn’t wait to see what happens next. When I started this series I was missing the full romance aspect in the stories, but now I am completely into the suspenseful, edge of your seat feeling. If you love romantic suspense this should be your next read, this whole series is a must read!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Ivy thinks she may have found a home there and plans to stay, completely contradictory to her usual temporary stays. In one night everything changes, her uncle is murdered while is hiding in the tattoo shop watching on the surveillance feed.
“Ivy Lee, is the queen of not making commitments. She’s free as a bird.”
Sabastian is a former Navy Seal who now works for Alliance, a security company. Alliance isn’t your typical security company and some of the things they do aren’t exactly legal, but they work for the greater good. Sabastian is sent to investigate Ivy and retrieve a surveillance tape for Alliance. He hasn’t given years to this company and trusted them completely, now he isn’t so sure.
Ivy and Sabastian have a lot in common in terms of relationships, both aren’t looking forever and don’t trust easily. But everything changes when Ivy needs someone to trust and lean and Sabastian is looking for the truth and finds it in Ivy.
I want to say these two are an unlikely pair, but I actually think they are perfect for each other. The only thing that makes them unlikely is the fact that neither want to find someone. They are both determined, strong willed and don’t open up easily. However, together they are able to find that missing piece in each other.
I love books that surprise me and Surviving Ice did just that. I was completely into the story and couldn’t wait to see what happens next. When I started this series I was missing the full romance aspect in the stories, but now I am completely into the suspenseful, edge of your seat feeling. If you love romantic suspense this should be your next read, this whole series is a must read!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2022
my least favourite book in the series, probably because it doesnt really feel like it belongs in the series.
the story itself is actually one i liked. i do love the whole ‘i was sent here to kill you but now i cant help but protect/bodyguard you’ trope. its a plot that works well when it comes to balancing suspense and romance, and it definitely works in this particular book.
but its a plot thats not connected to the rest of the series. ivy is a very, very minor character, one i never really warmed up to, and the lack of the other central characters just makes this story feel out of place. i think had there been a stronger tie to the previous books, i might not have minded ivy so much.
so all in all, not the best finale to the series, but a pretty decent story on its own.
↠ 3.5 stars
the story itself is actually one i liked. i do love the whole ‘i was sent here to kill you but now i cant help but protect/bodyguard you’ trope. its a plot that works well when it comes to balancing suspense and romance, and it definitely works in this particular book.
but its a plot thats not connected to the rest of the series. ivy is a very, very minor character, one i never really warmed up to, and the lack of the other central characters just makes this story feel out of place. i think had there been a stronger tie to the previous books, i might not have minded ivy so much.
so all in all, not the best finale to the series, but a pretty decent story on its own.
↠ 3.5 stars
November 23, 2015
You guys! I'm so sad that this is the last review I'll ever write for this series. I've loved each and every book in the Burying Water series, and Surviving Ice was absolutely no exception. K.A Tucker has created such engaging characters and stories that you become completely immersed in. This series is what I hope to see more NA books aspire to be because they are original, romantic and so damn addicting.
Ever since we met Ivy Lee in the previous book, Chasing River, I've been itching to get to her story. She was so fascinating with her Asian background, her tattooed skin and her tough exterior. I was dying to get to know her better and in Surviving Ice, I got exactly that. Ivy Lee, to be blunt, was a fucking badass. This girl was so amazing, I had a tough time not liking her. She was undoubtedly very bold and impenetrable on the outside and didn't let people in very easily, but throughout Surviving Ice, we watch as the layers to her character started to shed and we got to know her through and through. Behind that hard exterior, was a girl who was a big softie on the inside. She had grown up being a disappointment to her family who she was separated from. Her uncle, Ned, her father figure was who inspired her to become this amazing tattoo artist that she was. I loved how much Ivy seemed to be passionate about her tattoo artist skills. All in all, as with every K.A Tucker heroine, Ivy was a truly wonderful heroine.
Then there was Sebastian Riker. Holy hotness! If I could I'd write my entire review about how freaking hot he was. An assassin, a marine and a SEAL, he was such an enigma at first. He was very much like Ivy in that he kept his emotions hidden underneath, but throughout the book, through his monologue, you get to really know the kind of person he was and let me tell you, he was one swoony love interest. I think it was his intensity and his vulnerable sides that I found incredibly attractive. Not to mention, even though Ivy was part of a case he was investigating, he was nothing but gentle with her. I loved that about him.
The romance, as you can imagine, was smoking! I thought K.A Tucker did such a phenomenal job with building up their relationship. Ivy and Sebastian were very much a complementary couple. They made each other better people and obviously that made me ship them like crazy. I won't lie though, their relationship happened quite fast considering the timeline of Surviving Ice, but you know what? It worked really well in the case of this book. K.A Tucker doesn't make you feel like it was instalove which in itself is an incredible skill.
The tone of Surviving Ice also went back to the tone of the first two books. Unlike Chasing River, Surviving Ice had more danger and more suspense, which only served to heighten my anticipation of what was going to happen next. I couldn't stop from flipping the pages and I was worried sick to my stomach about what would happen to Ivy and Sebastian. K.A Tucker certainly knows how to write an engaging suspense story line.
If you haven't tried the Burying Water series, then you're honestly just missing out one of the best New Adult suspense series out there. These are some amazing books and this final story, Surviving Ice, was absolutely no different. Pick it up. You won't regret it.
October 25, 2015
I feel like it was just yesterday that I found out KA Tucker was beginning the first book in a new series, that series being Burying Water. How it can be that I just finished reading the LAST book in that series, I don't know!! I'm sad. This series is my absolute favorite from this author, weaving together crime and unpredictability, danger and love. But what a way to go, Ms Tucker. Surviving Ice was so great, rife with complex characters navigating an even more complex storyline. I loved it. LOVED it!
Ivy and Sebastian feel doomed from the start, their relationship born out of deceit and fear. But through the lies, there's no denying a true blue attraction exists. The chemistry and sexual tension between the two keeps this ill-fated romance on a precarious line between sweet and sexy and dark and doomed.
Ivy is an artist. She draws, she tattoos, she tags walls with graffiti in the middle of the night. She's unlike any of the female characters in previous books in this series. She's a wanderer. And now she's trying to pick up the pieces after a traumatic event before taking off once again. Sebastian is a liar. Well... more accurately, he's lying by omission. He walks into Ivy's life under the pretense of merely wanting some ink, when in reality, he's on a job, targeting Ivy to see what she knows about the events that lead to the death of her uncle. The situation is dangerous, the chemistry is on fire, and the uncertainty and unpredictability of the future of these characters kept me on the edge of my seat.
Sebastian is "Ice," cold and hardened and determined. Ivy is the perfect counterpart to this stone-faced ex-navy Seal. Just like her name, she's wild and free and untamed. He's closed off, impenetrable, she's stubborn and fierce. They're polar opposites in many ways, yet they fit. He grounds her, she adds color to his life. And as beautiful and perfectly imperfect as their dynamic is, there's no way this can end well.
Despite the serious tone of this story, despite the fact that Ivy's life is in peril and she has no idea, despite the likelihood of Sebastian's lies coming to light and demolishing any romantic possibility between he and Ivy, this story is peppered with humor and lightness. Secondary characters like Dakota, Fez and homeless Jono bring laugh out loud one-liners to an otherwise ominous story. They lighten up the heavy with their witty banter and refreshing dialogue. Ivy and Sebastian too, despite their grave circumstances, have a lightness between them, a fun, sexy, flirty attraction that one can only hope has a chance of surviving after everything comes crashing down. Through their sarcastic, sexy exchanges and the undeniable pull between them, the reader along with these characters, is granted brief reprieves from the gravity of this story to bask in the hope and romance of it before they're quickly reminded of the danger lurking once again.
I love this series so much, love the way Tucker has woven together these storylines surrounding interconnected characters while ensuring each book feels original and unexpected and new. Tucker's writing in this book is just delicious. Ivy and Sebastian consumed me in a way that I did not see coming. I have loved this entire series, some books standing out more than others. Well I'll say it now, Surviving Ice stands out. These characters are so perfectly developed, so thoroughly fleshed out. Artistic Ivy with her shaved hair and her sharp tongue, protective Sebastian with his chiseled body and his dangerous nature, together they are fireworks. They're magnetic. They are pent up aggression, lit fuses, saturated clouds, brimming volcanoes, and you just know that when they let go it's going to be extraordinary. This story was exactly what I was in the mood to read and I didn't even know it. It satisfied a craving I didn't know I was hungry for and now I just want more and more and more. Danger. Lust. Fear. Betrayal. Sensuality. Deceit. It's all here, woven together behind stunning prose, enigmatic characters and an unputdownable storyline. You know when you open a KA Tucker book, you're getting something good, but Surviving Ice wasn't just good. It was phenomenal.
Ivy and Sebastian feel doomed from the start, their relationship born out of deceit and fear. But through the lies, there's no denying a true blue attraction exists. The chemistry and sexual tension between the two keeps this ill-fated romance on a precarious line between sweet and sexy and dark and doomed.
Ivy is an artist. She draws, she tattoos, she tags walls with graffiti in the middle of the night. She's unlike any of the female characters in previous books in this series. She's a wanderer. And now she's trying to pick up the pieces after a traumatic event before taking off once again. Sebastian is a liar. Well... more accurately, he's lying by omission. He walks into Ivy's life under the pretense of merely wanting some ink, when in reality, he's on a job, targeting Ivy to see what she knows about the events that lead to the death of her uncle. The situation is dangerous, the chemistry is on fire, and the uncertainty and unpredictability of the future of these characters kept me on the edge of my seat.
Sebastian is "Ice," cold and hardened and determined. Ivy is the perfect counterpart to this stone-faced ex-navy Seal. Just like her name, she's wild and free and untamed. He's closed off, impenetrable, she's stubborn and fierce. They're polar opposites in many ways, yet they fit. He grounds her, she adds color to his life. And as beautiful and perfectly imperfect as their dynamic is, there's no way this can end well.
Despite the serious tone of this story, despite the fact that Ivy's life is in peril and she has no idea, despite the likelihood of Sebastian's lies coming to light and demolishing any romantic possibility between he and Ivy, this story is peppered with humor and lightness. Secondary characters like Dakota, Fez and homeless Jono bring laugh out loud one-liners to an otherwise ominous story. They lighten up the heavy with their witty banter and refreshing dialogue. Ivy and Sebastian too, despite their grave circumstances, have a lightness between them, a fun, sexy, flirty attraction that one can only hope has a chance of surviving after everything comes crashing down. Through their sarcastic, sexy exchanges and the undeniable pull between them, the reader along with these characters, is granted brief reprieves from the gravity of this story to bask in the hope and romance of it before they're quickly reminded of the danger lurking once again.
I love this series so much, love the way Tucker has woven together these storylines surrounding interconnected characters while ensuring each book feels original and unexpected and new. Tucker's writing in this book is just delicious. Ivy and Sebastian consumed me in a way that I did not see coming. I have loved this entire series, some books standing out more than others. Well I'll say it now, Surviving Ice stands out. These characters are so perfectly developed, so thoroughly fleshed out. Artistic Ivy with her shaved hair and her sharp tongue, protective Sebastian with his chiseled body and his dangerous nature, together they are fireworks. They're magnetic. They are pent up aggression, lit fuses, saturated clouds, brimming volcanoes, and you just know that when they let go it's going to be extraordinary. This story was exactly what I was in the mood to read and I didn't even know it. It satisfied a craving I didn't know I was hungry for and now I just want more and more and more. Danger. Lust. Fear. Betrayal. Sensuality. Deceit. It's all here, woven together behind stunning prose, enigmatic characters and an unputdownable storyline. You know when you open a KA Tucker book, you're getting something good, but Surviving Ice wasn't just good. It was phenomenal.
February 2, 2019
4.5 stars!
October 4, 2015
4.5 stars
A suspenseful and entertaining conclusion to a great series!
This story played out like an old time caper. Murder, a carefree heroine, a mysterious stranger, and a missing video tape. Ivy is not your typical heroine. She's the ultimate rebel, with tats and a partially shaved head, who loves to express herself through spray painting. (Great job on the cover btw. I really dislike how covers don't match the character description, but this one was a perfect match.) On top of that, she's part Spanish, part Chinese. An ethnic beauty. She tries to come off as disinterested and uneffected on the outside, but has a caring and vulnerability to her. It's this inner beauty that draws the attention of Sebastian, who enters her life as more than just a coincidence.
One theme I love about this series is character redemption. All of the men in this series seem to have this common tie that puts the heroine in danger. Whether it's dealings in the past or present, both pose a threat and inherently make the hero, the bad guy, for at least part of the story. So is the heroine that special to make the hero change? Can he save her and himself in the process?
Sebastian and his mission, was a hard thing rationalize. I understood the purpose of Alliance and why it was necessary to secure information. I could get behind that. What I couldn't get behind was their methods to secure that information. Sebastian does seem to have a more code deep down, in protecting innocent people. However, he continues to work for someone that doesn't share that same code, which is why I was so conflicted.
With time though, the reader and Sebastian learn that Alliance isn't as clean as its leader tries to project. This knowledge and his growing attraction to Ivy, change the course of his mission. While at first he promised not to do anything wreckless until he was sure of Ivy's guilt, that morphs into full on protection for her safety. He becomes a character to admire. The only concern is the lies he now hides from Ivy as each day passes between them. You know those lies will eventually surface. It's just a matter of time. What is left to question is how those lies will damage their relationship which changed from casual acquintance, to friend, to lover.
This story was entertaining from beginning to end. With a likeable heroine, trying to stay strong when she faces so much loss, and a hero trying to right others wrongs, and build something he never saw coming. This author gives us two characters to cheer for and hope they find that light in the dark tunnel.
This was another great series by the author who has become one of my favorites. I can't wait to see what else she has up her sleeve.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
A suspenseful and entertaining conclusion to a great series!
This story played out like an old time caper. Murder, a carefree heroine, a mysterious stranger, and a missing video tape. Ivy is not your typical heroine. She's the ultimate rebel, with tats and a partially shaved head, who loves to express herself through spray painting. (Great job on the cover btw. I really dislike how covers don't match the character description, but this one was a perfect match.) On top of that, she's part Spanish, part Chinese. An ethnic beauty. She tries to come off as disinterested and uneffected on the outside, but has a caring and vulnerability to her. It's this inner beauty that draws the attention of Sebastian, who enters her life as more than just a coincidence.
One theme I love about this series is character redemption. All of the men in this series seem to have this common tie that puts the heroine in danger. Whether it's dealings in the past or present, both pose a threat and inherently make the hero, the bad guy, for at least part of the story. So is the heroine that special to make the hero change? Can he save her and himself in the process?
Sebastian and his mission, was a hard thing rationalize. I understood the purpose of Alliance and why it was necessary to secure information. I could get behind that. What I couldn't get behind was their methods to secure that information. Sebastian does seem to have a more code deep down, in protecting innocent people. However, he continues to work for someone that doesn't share that same code, which is why I was so conflicted.
With time though, the reader and Sebastian learn that Alliance isn't as clean as its leader tries to project. This knowledge and his growing attraction to Ivy, change the course of his mission. While at first he promised not to do anything wreckless until he was sure of Ivy's guilt, that morphs into full on protection for her safety. He becomes a character to admire. The only concern is the lies he now hides from Ivy as each day passes between them. You know those lies will eventually surface. It's just a matter of time. What is left to question is how those lies will damage their relationship which changed from casual acquintance, to friend, to lover.
This story was entertaining from beginning to end. With a likeable heroine, trying to stay strong when she faces so much loss, and a hero trying to right others wrongs, and build something he never saw coming. This author gives us two characters to cheer for and hope they find that light in the dark tunnel.
This was another great series by the author who has become one of my favorites. I can't wait to see what else she has up her sleeve.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
October 27, 2015
Coffee dates with Surviving Ice
First Date: Ivy is back in San Francisco working side by side with her Uncle Ned in his tattoo parlor. For the first time she is considering setting down roots until she witnesses a terrible crime and unwittingly places herself in danger. Sebastian is ex-Navy Seal and a bit of drifter. He does odd jobs for a private security firm. His most recent assignment has him traveling to San Francisco, to retrieve potentially dangerous information and eliminating any threats. Meeting and assessing Ivy is part of the job and the two have serious chemistry but do not ask them to admit it. I am all in after this first date and ordering a pizza.
Second date: Tucker lays the groundwork creating a suspenseful tale notched with danger. All the while she peels back Sebastian’s layers exposing his troubled past. He is not a bad boy, but a SEAL, sworn to protect. The more I learned the deeper I swooned. Ivy is such a tough cookie, and you can see that Sebastian unnerves her. She questions the events surrounding the accident and it causes problems. We get to spend time with clients of the tattoo parlor and Ivy’s friends all while danger lurks around us. I wasn't overly worried because Sebastian has our six. While the danger is high, the banter, sexy time and Ivy's array of friends kept the tone light.
Third date: We have known since the beginning that Sebastian is working a case, but Ivy has become more than that and both are so vulnerable. They have trust issues, but together they seem stronger and bring out the best in each other. Tucker has them opening up and sharing. I had to eat a truffle or two. Their chemistry is off the charts from their teasing banter to their heated touches. Sebastian in his investigation uncovers things that put them both in danger. Tucker notched up the suspense and threw in some twists. One of the things I love about Tucker is that she does not overdo the relationship drama; she creates just enough angst to keep me flipping the pages. I was very satisfied with the way my date concluded from the case to the relationship. Tucker even threw in a nice epilogue that had me grinning.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First Date: Ivy is back in San Francisco working side by side with her Uncle Ned in his tattoo parlor. For the first time she is considering setting down roots until she witnesses a terrible crime and unwittingly places herself in danger. Sebastian is ex-Navy Seal and a bit of drifter. He does odd jobs for a private security firm. His most recent assignment has him traveling to San Francisco, to retrieve potentially dangerous information and eliminating any threats. Meeting and assessing Ivy is part of the job and the two have serious chemistry but do not ask them to admit it. I am all in after this first date and ordering a pizza.
Second date: Tucker lays the groundwork creating a suspenseful tale notched with danger. All the while she peels back Sebastian’s layers exposing his troubled past. He is not a bad boy, but a SEAL, sworn to protect. The more I learned the deeper I swooned. Ivy is such a tough cookie, and you can see that Sebastian unnerves her. She questions the events surrounding the accident and it causes problems. We get to spend time with clients of the tattoo parlor and Ivy’s friends all while danger lurks around us. I wasn't overly worried because Sebastian has our six. While the danger is high, the banter, sexy time and Ivy's array of friends kept the tone light.
Third date: We have known since the beginning that Sebastian is working a case, but Ivy has become more than that and both are so vulnerable. They have trust issues, but together they seem stronger and bring out the best in each other. Tucker has them opening up and sharing. I had to eat a truffle or two. Their chemistry is off the charts from their teasing banter to their heated touches. Sebastian in his investigation uncovers things that put them both in danger. Tucker notched up the suspense and threw in some twists. One of the things I love about Tucker is that she does not overdo the relationship drama; she creates just enough angst to keep me flipping the pages. I was very satisfied with the way my date concluded from the case to the relationship. Tucker even threw in a nice epilogue that had me grinning.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
October 4, 2018
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
"Il mio universo sei tu" è il quarto volume della serie "Burying Water" dedicata alla storia di Ivy Lee, un personaggio introdotto nei libri precedenti. In questa storia entriamo nella vita di questa donna e diamo uno sguardo al di sotto della patina di donna scostante, dura e solitaria ricoperta di tatuaggi. Ivy si è sempre sentita incompresa, tranne nei riguardi di suo zio Ned che l’ha presa sotto la sua ala e l’ha aiutata a perfezionare le sue capacità di tatuatrice. Dopo tanti anni trascorsi a spostarsi da un posto all’altro, per la prima volta pensa di aver trovato il posto in cui restare. Suo zio è l’unica persona che la capisce davvero e quando assiste ad un brutale omicidio e diventa l’unica testimone, la sua vita entra improvvisamente in un vortice di emozioni. Cercando di venire a patti con ciò che è accaduto, pensa di lasciarsi tutto alle spalle e trovare una nuova città in cui stabilirsi. Pagina dopo pagina assistiamo alla sua forza, alla sua capacità di non piangersi addosso quando tutto va male e di combattere sempre. Riesce sempre a cavarsela con le sue forze, non ha bisogno della compassione o dell’aiuto di nessuno. È una vera forza, uno spirito libero instancabile. Ma nella sua vita irrompe Sebastian, un uomo misterioso e affascinante che si trova in città per completare una missione. Nel pov di Sebastian siamo subito al corrente della vera ragione per cui lui è a San Francisco. Questa missione infatti, cambierà la vita di Sebastian in un modo che lui non si sarebbe mai aspettato. Per la prima volta c’è un uomo con cui Ivy sente un legame profondo, un uomo che nonostante i segreti che lui cela, sembra volersi prendere cura di lei e tenerla al sicuro. Per tutta la storia sono stata completamente affascinata da Sebastian e Ivy e da quel pizzico di suspense che rende ancora più coinvolgente la vicenda. La storia d’amore di Ivy e Sebastian viene sviluppata perfettamente: vediamo crescere il loro legame e la loro l’amicizia trasformarsi in qualcosa di più profondo. Ciò che inizia come attrazione fisica diventa qualcosa di più. Ho adorato la forza di Ivy, la sua determinazione e il suo aspetto da ragazza dura, ma agli occhi del mondo cela un lato vulnerabile che non mostra mai a nessuno. È anche una donna intelligente e intuitiva e percepisce che Sebastian ha un segreto, ma non conosce il peso di questo. Sebastian è in conflitto con se stesso e con le sue azioni, sa di essere dalla parte giusta ma ha anche una missione da compiere che non può fallire. È passato troppo tempo dall’ultima volta che si è sentito in contatto con qualcuno e con Ivy pian piano inizia a demolire quella barriera che ha innalzato nel corso degli anni. Ivy e Sebastian sono perfetti l’una per l’altro, sono due opposti che si attraggono. Entrambi nascondono le emozioni che provano ma quando sono insieme, quelle emozioni emergono e si scatenano in tutta la loro potenza. L’autrice ha la capacità di saper raccontare storie interessanti e sempre ricche di suspense e pericoli senza il dramma forzato e senza portare l’angoscia all’esasperazione. Si prende il tempo di sviluppare i suoi personaggi e la trama e tutto ciò si traduce in azione, emozioni, dialoghi e una forte tensione che incatena il lettore ad ogni pagina. Perfetto è l’equilibrio tra suspense e romanticismo: la parte suspense non sottrae spazio alla storia d’amore, anzi entrambi vanno di pari passo…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
"Il mio universo sei tu" è il quarto volume della serie "Burying Water" dedicata alla storia di Ivy Lee, un personaggio introdotto nei libri precedenti. In questa storia entriamo nella vita di questa donna e diamo uno sguardo al di sotto della patina di donna scostante, dura e solitaria ricoperta di tatuaggi. Ivy si è sempre sentita incompresa, tranne nei riguardi di suo zio Ned che l’ha presa sotto la sua ala e l’ha aiutata a perfezionare le sue capacità di tatuatrice. Dopo tanti anni trascorsi a spostarsi da un posto all’altro, per la prima volta pensa di aver trovato il posto in cui restare. Suo zio è l’unica persona che la capisce davvero e quando assiste ad un brutale omicidio e diventa l’unica testimone, la sua vita entra improvvisamente in un vortice di emozioni. Cercando di venire a patti con ciò che è accaduto, pensa di lasciarsi tutto alle spalle e trovare una nuova città in cui stabilirsi. Pagina dopo pagina assistiamo alla sua forza, alla sua capacità di non piangersi addosso quando tutto va male e di combattere sempre. Riesce sempre a cavarsela con le sue forze, non ha bisogno della compassione o dell’aiuto di nessuno. È una vera forza, uno spirito libero instancabile. Ma nella sua vita irrompe Sebastian, un uomo misterioso e affascinante che si trova in città per completare una missione. Nel pov di Sebastian siamo subito al corrente della vera ragione per cui lui è a San Francisco. Questa missione infatti, cambierà la vita di Sebastian in un modo che lui non si sarebbe mai aspettato. Per la prima volta c’è un uomo con cui Ivy sente un legame profondo, un uomo che nonostante i segreti che lui cela, sembra volersi prendere cura di lei e tenerla al sicuro. Per tutta la storia sono stata completamente affascinata da Sebastian e Ivy e da quel pizzico di suspense che rende ancora più coinvolgente la vicenda. La storia d’amore di Ivy e Sebastian viene sviluppata perfettamente: vediamo crescere il loro legame e la loro l’amicizia trasformarsi in qualcosa di più profondo. Ciò che inizia come attrazione fisica diventa qualcosa di più. Ho adorato la forza di Ivy, la sua determinazione e il suo aspetto da ragazza dura, ma agli occhi del mondo cela un lato vulnerabile che non mostra mai a nessuno. È anche una donna intelligente e intuitiva e percepisce che Sebastian ha un segreto, ma non conosce il peso di questo. Sebastian è in conflitto con se stesso e con le sue azioni, sa di essere dalla parte giusta ma ha anche una missione da compiere che non può fallire. È passato troppo tempo dall’ultima volta che si è sentito in contatto con qualcuno e con Ivy pian piano inizia a demolire quella barriera che ha innalzato nel corso degli anni. Ivy e Sebastian sono perfetti l’una per l’altro, sono due opposti che si attraggono. Entrambi nascondono le emozioni che provano ma quando sono insieme, quelle emozioni emergono e si scatenano in tutta la loro potenza. L’autrice ha la capacità di saper raccontare storie interessanti e sempre ricche di suspense e pericoli senza il dramma forzato e senza portare l’angoscia all’esasperazione. Si prende il tempo di sviluppare i suoi personaggi e la trama e tutto ciò si traduce in azione, emozioni, dialoghi e una forte tensione che incatena il lettore ad ogni pagina. Perfetto è l’equilibrio tra suspense e romanticismo: la parte suspense non sottrae spazio alla storia d’amore, anzi entrambi vanno di pari passo…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
October 25, 2015
*I received a free ARC of Surviving Ice from Netgalley*
Surviving Ice was so intense, especially because it started right in the middle of the action - Ivy witnessed her uncle being killed, and she had to hide underneath a desk in order to stay undetected herself! If you have read the prior stories in Tucker's Burying Water series, you have already met Ivy - she comes across as distanced and quite abrasive, but there is a soft heart hiding deep inside of her. After her uncle's death, she is ready to be on the move again, even if just days before she had started thinking about putting down roots in San Fransisco. Being the legal executor of Ned's will makes sure she has to stay for a while, though, and when she meets Sebastian, she wonders if maybe San Fransisco isn't an OK place after all.This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Surviving Ice was so intense, especially because it started right in the middle of the action - Ivy witnessed her uncle being killed, and she had to hide underneath a desk in order to stay undetected herself! If you have read the prior stories in Tucker's Burying Water series, you have already met Ivy - she comes across as distanced and quite abrasive, but there is a soft heart hiding deep inside of her. After her uncle's death, she is ready to be on the move again, even if just days before she had started thinking about putting down roots in San Fransisco. Being the legal executor of Ned's will makes sure she has to stay for a while, though, and when she meets Sebastian, she wonders if maybe San Fransisco isn't an OK place after all.This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
October 22, 2018
Surviving Ice is the final book in the Burying Water companion series. Surviving Ice follows Ivy in San Francisco working at her uncle’s tattoo shop when she becomes a witness to a life changing crime.
Surviving Ice is my least favourite of the series because my suspension of disbelief was pushed a little to far and there were a few moments that were swept under the rug that should have been addressed further.
Suspension of disbelief is the reason I gave Surviving Ice four stars instead of five. I always have a hard time fully enjoying romance novels that feature crime heavily in the plot since a lot of the time I find them unrealistic since authors have to balance a fine line between believable crime and/or investigations and character and romance development. Most of the time, the crime or investigation suffers at the hands of the romance. Tucker does a better job than most at balancing these two aspects of the novel, however the profession of the male love interest is what pulled me out of the story the most.
There are a few creepy moments that are swept under the rug. These moments in romance novels are always overlooked because as long as the characters are physically attractive it’s not considered creepy behavior. I wish Tucker would have addressed them further rather than a passing line in the chapter few chapters.
The chemistry between the main characters is intense, though what else can you expect from a Tucker novel? Surviving Ice is full of sarcastic banter and intense character moments that make it hard to not enjoy despite the issues outlined above.
Overall, Surviving Ice is a fun and steamy romance with an edgier plot.
Surviving Ice is my least favourite of the series because my suspension of disbelief was pushed a little to far and there were a few moments that were swept under the rug that should have been addressed further.
Suspension of disbelief is the reason I gave Surviving Ice four stars instead of five. I always have a hard time fully enjoying romance novels that feature crime heavily in the plot since a lot of the time I find them unrealistic since authors have to balance a fine line between believable crime and/or investigations and character and romance development. Most of the time, the crime or investigation suffers at the hands of the romance. Tucker does a better job than most at balancing these two aspects of the novel, however the profession of the male love interest is what pulled me out of the story the most.
There are a few creepy moments that are swept under the rug. These moments in romance novels are always overlooked because as long as the characters are physically attractive it’s not considered creepy behavior. I wish Tucker would have addressed them further rather than a passing line in the chapter few chapters.
The chemistry between the main characters is intense, though what else can you expect from a Tucker novel? Surviving Ice is full of sarcastic banter and intense character moments that make it hard to not enjoy despite the issues outlined above.
Overall, Surviving Ice is a fun and steamy romance with an edgier plot.
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