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nmulder81's review against another edition
4.0
Teague Creek has been in jail for a crime he didn’t commit and now it’s time to get some justice. Kidnapping the girlfriend of someone he thinks holds all the cards seems like a easy way to get what he wants. Leverage. He never expected to kidnap the wrong woman. Especially one that looks as tempting as Alyssa and who can get his blood boiling every time the feisty woman opens her mouth. Getting his blood boiling though is another secret Teague harbors. His unique ability may be just what he needs to keep this woman safe and get what he’s sought all along. Justice.
Fever is the first novel by Joan Swan. Each year I try to promote a few debut authors and I think with Joan I have struck a gold mine! How this is her first book is beyond me because she writes like a seasoned professional. Fever is a romantic suspense peppered with paranormal-ish abilities that blend together to form a solid, eye-catching book that is sure to entertain fans of both subgenres.
From the first page I really liked Teague. I felt horribly for him for everything he had been through. A wife who committed suicide, a girlfriend murdered, a fire that split his fellow fire fighters apart, a jail sentence for a crime he didn’t commit and finally a custody battle. That is enough angst to cripple even the strongest of men. Yet Teague remains steadfast in his need for justice. To achieve it he forms a plan for a daring jailbreak that hinges on grabbing a doctor, the girlfriend of the man who has Teague’s daughter, to use as leverage.
Except the woman he grabs isn’t the woman he thought she was. Instead he grabs Alyssa, the workaholic just trying to secure a prominent position at the hospital. She is strong, loud and incredibly mouthy which instantly grates on Teague’s jailbreak accomplice. I instantly warmed even more toward Teague when he was protecting Alyssa (though he didn’t know he had the wrong woman at that point) from various guys because of her mouth. I couldn’t get over how much she said. It was a BIT unbelievable that someone would say as much as she did to guys that she was sure were going to kill her. Having said that I appreciated her strong will and thought she paired well with Teague who had an even stronger will.
Alyssa and Teague had a steady warming relationship. Teague spends a good portion of the book lying to her about nearly everything not sure he could trust her. Even after she makes the decision to stay with him, he finds that he can’t seem to tell her everything for fear that she will betray him like he perceives everyone else has. Playing devils advocate to his strong will is his emotional fragility. I thought his showing emotion several times in the form of tears was a breath of fresh air to the normal “I will not cry mentality”. Normally I shun crying men. I hate it in fact. Swan did it in a way where I still felt how strong this man was and so the tears were just another layer to the puzzle that was Teague.
Since this is the beginning of a series, there are many more questions than answers. How did Teague get his ability of being able to raise his body heat and soothe pain at will? Who are the shadowed group that did their best to frame him and put him away and out of mind forever? Why? Joan Swans next book, Blaze, comes out this fall and I hope readers will get more information at that time. I think all my questions brought the book down a bit for me. I wanted at least a few more answers than what I was given. Coupled with the fact that the book dragged a bit for me at several spots. There were parts where as a suspense book, I wanted a bit more action. A bit more threat. Some readers will take issue with the paranormal aspect in a suspense, as this seems to be a rising trend in the genre.
I give Fever by Joan Swan 4 stars!
Fever is the first novel by Joan Swan. Each year I try to promote a few debut authors and I think with Joan I have struck a gold mine! How this is her first book is beyond me because she writes like a seasoned professional. Fever is a romantic suspense peppered with paranormal-ish abilities that blend together to form a solid, eye-catching book that is sure to entertain fans of both subgenres.
From the first page I really liked Teague. I felt horribly for him for everything he had been through. A wife who committed suicide, a girlfriend murdered, a fire that split his fellow fire fighters apart, a jail sentence for a crime he didn’t commit and finally a custody battle. That is enough angst to cripple even the strongest of men. Yet Teague remains steadfast in his need for justice. To achieve it he forms a plan for a daring jailbreak that hinges on grabbing a doctor, the girlfriend of the man who has Teague’s daughter, to use as leverage.
Except the woman he grabs isn’t the woman he thought she was. Instead he grabs Alyssa, the workaholic just trying to secure a prominent position at the hospital. She is strong, loud and incredibly mouthy which instantly grates on Teague’s jailbreak accomplice. I instantly warmed even more toward Teague when he was protecting Alyssa (though he didn’t know he had the wrong woman at that point) from various guys because of her mouth. I couldn’t get over how much she said. It was a BIT unbelievable that someone would say as much as she did to guys that she was sure were going to kill her. Having said that I appreciated her strong will and thought she paired well with Teague who had an even stronger will.
Alyssa and Teague had a steady warming relationship. Teague spends a good portion of the book lying to her about nearly everything not sure he could trust her. Even after she makes the decision to stay with him, he finds that he can’t seem to tell her everything for fear that she will betray him like he perceives everyone else has. Playing devils advocate to his strong will is his emotional fragility. I thought his showing emotion several times in the form of tears was a breath of fresh air to the normal “I will not cry mentality”. Normally I shun crying men. I hate it in fact. Swan did it in a way where I still felt how strong this man was and so the tears were just another layer to the puzzle that was Teague.
Since this is the beginning of a series, there are many more questions than answers. How did Teague get his ability of being able to raise his body heat and soothe pain at will? Who are the shadowed group that did their best to frame him and put him away and out of mind forever? Why? Joan Swans next book, Blaze, comes out this fall and I hope readers will get more information at that time. I think all my questions brought the book down a bit for me. I wanted at least a few more answers than what I was given. Coupled with the fact that the book dragged a bit for me at several spots. There were parts where as a suspense book, I wanted a bit more action. A bit more threat. Some readers will take issue with the paranormal aspect in a suspense, as this seems to be a rising trend in the genre.
I give Fever by Joan Swan 4 stars!
mrsbsbooks's review
4.0
This is a very fast paced romance with a paranormal twist thrown in.
I've seen a lot of reviews mentioning the racial slurs and slanders that one character says, but, coming from an island where racial goings on have never really been prevalent they didn't mean much to me. In fact i had never even heard many of them. They only really happen in the first couple of chapters before they disappear.
Alyssa was a strong character and fights for what she wants and what she believes in. Even though she has been kidnapped by Teague Creek she soon learns that it is not all what it seems.
Teague is another strong character but you wonder why he puts up with so much from Taz at the start. Basically he's your wronged good guy who is just battling for freedom and his daughter. Feelings for Alyssa are an unexpected development for him, but he always puts her fist in all situations.
A lot of other strong characters were in this novel, Mitch, Alyssa's brother. Luke, Teagues brother in law and fellow fire fighter buddy. Seth a friend and fire fighter buddy.
This is a book that really gripped me. The government angle was also a believable twist.
I've seen a lot of reviews mentioning the racial slurs and slanders that one character says, but, coming from an island where racial goings on have never really been prevalent they didn't mean much to me. In fact i had never even heard many of them. They only really happen in the first couple of chapters before they disappear.
Alyssa was a strong character and fights for what she wants and what she believes in. Even though she has been kidnapped by Teague Creek she soon learns that it is not all what it seems.
Teague is another strong character but you wonder why he puts up with so much from Taz at the start. Basically he's your wronged good guy who is just battling for freedom and his daughter. Feelings for Alyssa are an unexpected development for him, but he always puts her fist in all situations.
A lot of other strong characters were in this novel, Mitch, Alyssa's brother. Luke, Teagues brother in law and fellow fire fighter buddy. Seth a friend and fire fighter buddy.
This is a book that really gripped me. The government angle was also a believable twist.
lisa_me's review against another edition
5.0
Teague Creek is in jail for a crime he didn't commit. He plans an escape with a fellow convict, Taz, and takes Dr. Alyssa Foster hostage. They go on the run, with Alyssa fighting him the whole way. Yet they're also attracted to each other. There's more to Teague than the racist, murdering convict she initially believes him to be. And there's also something odd about his body heat and the way he seems to be able to heal her with a touch...
Teague has a goal to reach with his escape that he isn't revealing to Alyssa. And Alyssa soon realizes that Teague is operating under a misconception. What will happen when Teague finds out the truth about her? Will he still need her as a hostage, or will she become collateral damage?
And who is that mysterious man who is following them?
~~~
Fever is a ripping roller coaster ride of suspense. Hang on tight, because you'll be whipped up and down and thrown around fast curves. Once you get on, you won't be able to get off--and you won't want to. I read the book almost in one day. A work day, no less. I couldn't put it down.
Teague is a jerk (Alyssa's word) throughout much of the book, but you can tell that he's a good guy deep down. Alyssa is a fighter, and fights him tooth and nail. Frankly, at times you do wonder how they'll ever fall in love. You'll have to read the book to find out.
Taz is often mentioned by other reviewers. He's racist and a lot of filth comes out of his mouth. I found it to be offensive but in character. You'll have to decide if you can tolerate fictional racist slurs.
Mild spoiler: In his previous life, Teague was a firefighter and paramedic. Joan Swan's husband is a firefighter. The firefighting and paramedic aspects of the story were heroic, realistic and fascinating. Especially Teague's.
Not all aspects of the story were explained at the end. I assume the explanations are part of the overall story arc.
All in all, Fever is an excellent debut novel. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Teague has a goal to reach with his escape that he isn't revealing to Alyssa. And Alyssa soon realizes that Teague is operating under a misconception. What will happen when Teague finds out the truth about her? Will he still need her as a hostage, or will she become collateral damage?
And who is that mysterious man who is following them?
~~~
Fever is a ripping roller coaster ride of suspense. Hang on tight, because you'll be whipped up and down and thrown around fast curves. Once you get on, you won't be able to get off--and you won't want to. I read the book almost in one day. A work day, no less. I couldn't put it down.
Teague is a jerk (Alyssa's word) throughout much of the book, but you can tell that he's a good guy deep down. Alyssa is a fighter, and fights him tooth and nail. Frankly, at times you do wonder how they'll ever fall in love. You'll have to read the book to find out.
Taz is often mentioned by other reviewers. He's racist and a lot of filth comes out of his mouth. I found it to be offensive but in character. You'll have to decide if you can tolerate fictional racist slurs.
Mild spoiler: In his previous life, Teague was a firefighter and paramedic. Joan Swan's husband is a firefighter. The firefighting and paramedic aspects of the story were heroic, realistic and fascinating. Especially Teague's
Spoiler
makeshift, emergency suturesNot all aspects of the story were explained at the end. I assume the explanations are part of the overall story arc.
All in all, Fever is an excellent debut novel. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
bookloverchelle's review
3.0
I’m not really sure how I felt about this book. I picked this up because, hello, sexy man on the cover. I didn’t realize that the hero was an escaped convict and that isn’t really a hero that does it for me. I mean, I like a bad boy, but a convicted criminal takes it maybe one step too far for me. Also, at least the first third of the book, the hero and heroine were still at each other’s throats and there was no trust between them. It felt then a little quick for a complete 180 for the deep feelings to build. The motivation for Teague, the hero, was great. I loved how devoted and dedicated he was to his daughter. The times were we saw him break down emotionally is when it concerned her. I loved how smart the heroine, Alyssa, was. I also enjoyed that after she worked through her initial shock, how she didn’t take any crap and fought back however she could. I did enjoy the set up for the overall story line and I think I’m more interested in seeing what comes next in the series.
laurenjodi's review
4.0
Fever
4 Stars
Imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, Teague Creek escapes with a hostage and is on the run not only from the police, but from dangerous rogue operatives who will stop at nothing to silence him once and for all. Dr. Alyssa Foster knows nothing of the man who has kidnapped her other than the fact that he awakens a deep seated need and desire within her. Surely there is more to this desperate bid for freedom than meets the eye…
A solid if rather far fetched plot, appealing characters and a satisfying romance.
The story starts out well and builds consistently with some exciting action scenes and paranormal abilities that are smoothly interwoven within the narrative. Nevertheless, the conspiracy elements are underdeveloped and the last few chapters progress too rapidly with several leaps in logic that lack foundation.
Alyssa’s stubborn determination and inquisitive nature make her a likable heroine and the fact that she doesn’t quiver and cower is an additional plus. While Teague starts out as a typical hard-ass alpha, he slowly reveals his inner vulnerability and need for someone to believe in him. Their relationship develops at a believable pace and their reactions are quite realistic given the circumstances.
Overall, an entertaining read reminiscent of other wonderful books in the genre, such as Perfect by Judith McNaught and Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare. I look forward to continuing with the series.
4 Stars
Imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, Teague Creek escapes with a hostage and is on the run not only from the police, but from dangerous rogue operatives who will stop at nothing to silence him once and for all. Dr. Alyssa Foster knows nothing of the man who has kidnapped her other than the fact that he awakens a deep seated need and desire within her. Surely there is more to this desperate bid for freedom than meets the eye…
A solid if rather far fetched plot, appealing characters and a satisfying romance.
The story starts out well and builds consistently with some exciting action scenes and paranormal abilities that are smoothly interwoven within the narrative. Nevertheless, the conspiracy elements are underdeveloped and the last few chapters progress too rapidly with several leaps in logic that lack foundation.
Alyssa’s stubborn determination and inquisitive nature make her a likable heroine and the fact that she doesn’t quiver and cower is an additional plus. While Teague starts out as a typical hard-ass alpha, he slowly reveals his inner vulnerability and need for someone to believe in him. Their relationship develops at a believable pace and their reactions are quite realistic given the circumstances.
Overall, an entertaining read reminiscent of other wonderful books in the genre, such as Perfect by Judith McNaught and Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare. I look forward to continuing with the series.
booklovinmamas's review
4.0
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
I was in tears at the end of the book on what happened to Teague and when he was finally reunited with the someone he was trying to get to from the beginning. This was a tear jerker book. Steamy scenes let’s say thank goodness I was reading in the back of the truck during the ride back home so no one could see me smiling. =) I would love to hook up with Teague…even when he’s heating up. Steamy hot, sex with Teague…sign me up. (shhh don't tell the hubby I have a new book boyfriend…he gets jealous) Forewarning though I’ve read some mixed reviews on this book. The beginning of the book, one of the characters said some racist remarks. (It’s only his character though) Some reviewers did not like that. After a while, though the racism went away and well…let’s Just say the person is saying the racist remarks got what was coming to him. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense, you definitely should check out this debut novel of Joan Swan’s. You definitely will not regret it. The next release to the series is “Blaze” which comes out in a week. =) I’m excited to read it because it is on Luke (who is in Fever). The way he was described in Fever…let’s say Teague may have competition.
I was in tears at the end of the book on what happened to Teague and when he was finally reunited with the someone he was trying to get to from the beginning. This was a tear jerker book. Steamy scenes let’s say thank goodness I was reading in the back of the truck during the ride back home so no one could see me smiling. =) I would love to hook up with Teague…even when he’s heating up. Steamy hot, sex with Teague…sign me up. (shhh don't tell the hubby I have a new book boyfriend…he gets jealous) Forewarning though I’ve read some mixed reviews on this book. The beginning of the book, one of the characters said some racist remarks. (It’s only his character though) Some reviewers did not like that. After a while, though the racism went away and well…let’s Just say the person is saying the racist remarks got what was coming to him. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense, you definitely should check out this debut novel of Joan Swan’s. You definitely will not regret it. The next release to the series is “Blaze” which comes out in a week. =) I’m excited to read it because it is on Luke (who is in Fever). The way he was described in Fever…let’s say Teague may have competition.
ymiranda's review
4.0
4.5 Stars
(minus .5 because of the lack of STEAMY hot you know what scenes between Teague and Lys....come on!)
(minus .5 because of the lack of STEAMY hot you know what scenes between Teague and Lys....come on!)
lisajo85's review
5.0
You might as well call your boss today and tell him you're coming down with a high FEVER because Joan Swan's debut novel is sure to get your temperature rising and your pulse raising. Emotional, dramatic and absolutely sexy, this is one suspense novel you should not pass up!
Dr. Alyssa Foster is working hard to earn a promotion at work, and being kidnapped by a prisoner during her shift at San Quentin is not helping her situation. Her kidnapper is Teague Creek, a man currently serving a life sentence for murder. Alyssa knows she's supposed to feel frightened, but she just can't let go of the feeling that he isn't the cruel murderer people think he is. At this point, Teague has nothing to lose and when he has the opportunity to let Alyssa go...he finds he just isn't ready to. As the passionate and dangerous relationship between these two develops, Alyssa hopes she can help Teague, before it's too late.
I have to say this novel took me on one hell of a ride. I really had no idea what to think from one chapter to the next. Which for a suspense novel is a fantastic thing. FEVER is a novel that can keep you on the edge of your seat desperate to know what's coming next. Not only did the novel have great drama and suspense, but it had fantastic characters to lead the story. I finished this story in a few sittings, because I had to know the ending. I became so attached to these characters, I found it impossible to let them go.
Teague had me gloriously confused, but in an intriguing and interesting sense. One moment I thought he was the bad guy, in the next I knew he was a good guy and by the end, I found he was just absolutely perfect. Perfect, because he could play the macho guy in one scene and then be the tragically haunted hero in the next. He was a resilient fighter, and I loved his attitude that basically showed everyone that he would do what he had to do in order to protect the people he loved.
Alyssa was a great heroine. She was intelligent, and despite all the craziness going on around her, she knew how to keep her cool. Ms Swan developed a great heroine who always trusted her instincts. Which is basically what guides her in this novel since she has nothing else to go on. Alyssa knows what she believes and does anything and everything to prove she's right. I loved her courage and her fearlessness. Anything that was thrown at her, she dealt with it brilliantly.
I was overwhelmingly impressed with the way Ms Swan developed her characters. They were complex, intriguing and so fun to read about. Teague and Alyssa have an uncertain romance in the beginning, but it quickly blossoms into a fantastic romance. The two share a fiery passion that makes the pages simply smolder. Still, it's not a rushed romance, and it doesn't feel forced or out of place. They share a stunning chemistry, and Ms Swan does a great job of telling their story. She also sets up a great start to an exciting series. She makes grand introductions to other characters who we will most likely see in future novels. I for one, cannot wait to read more about them.
FEVER by Joan Swan is an excellent debut novel and hopefully a snapshot of what's to come from this author. This novel was all I expected it to be and then some. I loved the drama, I loved the suspense and I absolutely loved the romance. There was even a small paranormal story line thrown in, for those looking for something a little more on the wild side. Otherwise, I can't say enough good things about this novel. This was very well written and just fabulously fun and entertaining. Fever is an intense novel that is sure to keep you up late into the night reading it...and I guarantee you, you'll love every second of the ride.
Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews