Sweet Revenge by Rebecca Zanetti
Narrator: Karen White
Series: Sin Brothers #2
Published by Hachette Audio
Published on: June 24, 2014
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Length: 750 minutes
Format: Audiobook
Source: Publisher
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The One Man She Can't Have
Matt Dean was born to fight . . . and kill. A member of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be the perfect soldiers with an expiration date. Now, with time running out, he's gone rogue in a relentless quest for the one person who can save them. His mission leads him to Charmed, Idaho . . . and to a beautiful woman with eyes like emeralds and a body made for pleasure.
The One Woman He Can't Resist
Laney Jacobs knows the mysterious, handsome stranger is trouble from the moment he walks into her bar, looking for a job. She's spent years running from her own past-the last thing she needs is a romantic entanglement. But Matt's strong arms offer her protection and his gentle touch promises passion unlike anything she's ever known. As lethal forces surround them, revealing explosive secrets about Matt's past and putting everything-and everyone-he holds dear in danger, can he save them all before time runs out?
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When I first discovered this series I was hesitant to give it a listen because it’s shelved as both Romantic Suspense and Paranormal Romance. And, even though I loved the first installment, I wasn’t sure whether it was because of the ‘new’ factor or legit enjoyment. Well, as it turns out book 1 was no fluke—I really liked this one too—albeit slightly less than FORGOTTEN SINS, but I think that was more Matt’s fault than anything else. He just couldn’t measure up to Shane Dean’s smexiness. Like the first novel, the plot’s very life-or-death thriller with an added dash of evil mastermind. What’s not to love?
In the earlier chapters Rebecca Zanetti flashes back to the SIN BROTHERS’ time at the facility to help put Matt’s alpha-ness into perspective. It helped me grasp that this guy really does have the weight of the world on his shoulders, or rather at least all three of his siblings’ lives. It was a smart move on the author’s part that allowed me to sympathize more with his character because after the first book, I thought that Matt was somewhat of a d*ck. That being said, there was still something missing to help me fully make the leap from drill sergeant to love interest. He’s undeniably strong and fiercely protective of his family, but he’s also very serious because he’s the oldest brother, and as a result I found that his dialogue was a little dry at times. It’s hard to pull off flirty when his personality lacks a playful side.
Laney on the other hand was an absolute delight! I loved that she was a grey protagonist; her intentions are good, but you know what they say about hindsight… The SIN BROTHERS seem to have a weakness for soft women—well, as far as first impressions go anyway—but Jacobs promptly proves Matt wrong. I liked how her past tied in to a number of plot threads, and I suspect that she’ll play a key role in helping the Deans get out of this whole killer microchip mess before all is said and done. The romance between Laney & Matt was instantaneous, and continued to burn hot and bright for the duration of the story. There was however one rather awkward sexy scene that included an attempted murder; it just didn’t sit entirely right with me, but otherwise I have no complaints in the steam department.
Karen White continues to work her way up my list of favourite narrators, and with over 150 audiobooks under her belt, it’s easy to understand why. In this series she excels at keeping up with Zanetti’s quick paced writing style, her character voices are consistent from book-to-book, and she’s not afraid to pull out her Southern twang when the need arises. It’s hard to say for sure what I would have rated this novel has I read it instead, but I strongly suspect that White’s narration helped curtail some of the issues that I had with Matt.
SWEET REVENGE is a great addition to this series, and I look forward to listening to BLIND FAITH. I think that it’s important that I be properly introduced to all of the SIN BROTHERS before deciding which one is alpha enough to be my new fictional boyfriend.
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Owner, designer and main blogger behind Rabid Reads. Avid book reader, snowboard bunny, video gamer and Supernatural fan. I love all things paranormal, werewolves especially. Oh, and I’m Canadian, eh!
I still need to listen to book one. I have it (thanks to a contest from you), just too many review books that I need to get through. It is on my iPod, so it will be soon, I hope. 🙂
Melanie Simmons recently posted…One Night More Audiobook by Mandy Baxter (Review)
The third installment is due out later this fall in audio, so you’d best get on that, but I hear ya on the never ending review books. It’s so hard to stay on top of ’em all!
I haven’t heard of this series, I like the PNR and romantic suspense angle 🙂 Sounds like a good series for me to look into!!! Greta review Carmel.
Chanzie recently posted…Book Review: Immortal Heart (#0.5 Few Are Angels) by Inger Iversen
The only paranormal aspects are the super soldiers, and that can be chalked up to genetic engineering, but I needed an out to be able to feature this series on the blog. LOL
Just found out this week that I’ll be recording BLIND FAITH in October. I have a feeling Nate’s going to be my favorite brother…
That’s great news, Karen! I’ve been keeping my eyes open for review copies, and thought I’d missed it, so thanks for the update.
I am pretty sure the plan is to release the audiobook with the paperback, which will be January 27, 2015.
Good stuff! I know that the first installment was released way before the audio version, so I’d just assumed that they were all out already. Jan 2015—noted!
I remember you loving the first book Carmel, why must you add to my TBR pile like you are? *sigh* 😛
So glad you really enjoyed this and it didn’t suffer too much being a second book. 😉
Great review and Happy Friday!!
kindlemom1 recently posted…Review: Sacrifice by Brigid Kemmerer
You’ve added plenty of books to my TBR as well, so fair is fair! The second brother isn’t as hunky IMO, but that’s more a personal preference I think.
I definitely enjoyed the first story! This cover…makes it a little hard for me to take this second installment too seriously. I mean, that rig looks incredibly uncomfortable against his bare skin (though that is quite a lovely, furry expanse of chest, there).
Mary recently posted…Wonderfully Wicked Blog Tour: Author Interview and Giveaway
Yeah, the cover is rather fugly. It’s hard to get excited over a dude wearing a man bra. Hehe 😉
Okay, you sold me on the first book for sure and since my library has the ebook available I have no excuse not do download it right?! Thanks for adding another new author to my list to try. The audio sounds great as well, so I’ll keep my eyes out for it also. Happy Friday Carmel! 🙂
kim { Book Swoon } recently posted…Young Adult Book Review: The Jewel by Amy Ewing
Like you really needed another author on your list, right? Your THE JEWEL review is still taunting me, so I guess we’ll have to call this round even.
I’m really glad to hear that even if you didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first book, it was still worthy of 4 stars!
And it’s really great when an audiobook helps you get over some issues with the characters instead of pulling you out of the story with the narration!
Happy Friday Carmel, have a great weekend!!
Pili recently posted…Friday Reads: ARC Review of Lailah by Nikki Kelly!!
If I’d found fault in White’s narration I would have just assumed that it was me because she’s too talented to record a bad audiobook IMO.
Great review Carmel 🙂 I also enjoyed this quite a lot, and I have to say this series helped me discover my fondness for romantic suspense that I couldn’t find in the past.
And oh boy! Can Karen White nail those male voices!
Lupdilup recently posted…One Night More Audiobook by Mandy Baxter (Review)
YES! This series totally sold me on Romantic Suspense, so when I saw how you categorized your Mandy Baxter review I was strongly tempted. I wouldn’t have thought that a female narrator would have been able to carry a predominantly male POV so well, White is a seasoned pro.
I need to pick this one up. I enjoyed the first one 🙂
Felicia The Geeky Blogger recently posted…Book Blog Walkers: Weekly Check-in September 19 2014
Well then, enough said. 😀
It’s nice to have a good narrator like that. I’m not sure audiobooks are for me, it takes me too long to read them but it’s nice to discover this series. I didn’t know this one or I don’t think so but I’m curious. I like one like that from time to time.
It’s funny how sometimes you have to rely on your GoodReads shelves to tell you whether you’ve already read a book or not. Book blogger problems. LOL
I have heard great things about first book, but wasn’t sure. Now after this review I think I need to add both titles to my TBR.
I’m not sure I’ll go the audiobook way, my puritan ears don’t enjoy romance on audio. 🙁
BookaholicCat recently posted…Review: Every Time I Think of You by Tracey Garvis-Graves
I didn’t realize that you were so selective about your listens, Marcela! However, I’m sure that this series is equally as good when read.
idk how you do it lol. I tried one audio book by Rachel Bach and only made it about 10% in. I just can picture it the same way I do when I read it.
Danielle recently posted…Stuck in a Good Book Giveaway Hop
The narrator can make a HUGE difference, so maybe get a couple of recommendations, and give audios a second chance? Short & funny usually works best for beginners.
I haven’t read many romantic suspense books and I would like to change that. I will add this series to my audiobook list. Happy weekend!
Heidi recently posted…Friday Forecast September 21st-27th
And, here I was thinking that I was the only one who hasn’t given this genre a whirl yet. Thanks for making me feel better about my listening habits. 😉
Genetically engineered soldiers, interesting. I haven’t read this, sounds interesting.
Mary Kirkland recently posted…Freebie Friday!
Granted, the modifications are sexy not freakish which certainly helps with this series’ sex appeal.
I’ve fallen out of sync with romance suspense as of late. I really need to jump start my love for these novels. The Sin Brothers look delectable. hehehehe
Joy (Joyousreads) recently posted…Tour Stop: Haze [The Rephaim, #2] by Paula Weston
I imagine that Romantic Suspense is like any other genre, there are good books, and there are bad ones. It’s easy to get burnt out when you’ve read a few so-so novels in a row.
i just got the paperback!! after reading book 1 i had to try book two and now your review rassure me that i made the good choice!!!
*happy time*
miki recently posted…The Mane Event (Pride 1) by Sherry Laurenston
*phew* I’m glad that I didn’t recommend yet another book that you couldn’t read. LOL
you don’t recommend that many i can’t read sometimes it just takes a long time because i can get the book but once i’m really interested i can be really REALLY patient ( and perseverant)
miki recently posted…The Mane Event (Pride 1) by Sherry Laurenston
Oh, well thanks for clearing that up! Your comments were beginning to make me feel guilty. You have the patience of a saint.
Great female character (they often become whiney in this genre), and a great narrator. I’m going to have to check out her work if you say it improved the book for you. Yea, I do think I want to try it. Plus, I’ve been getting more into romantic suspense lately as well.
Melissa (Books and Things) recently posted…Mini Audiobook Review: Breathe by Abbi Glines and Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews
My experience with this genre is limited, but fortunately I haven’t encountered any whiny female leads yet. And yes, Karen White is the… woman!!! 😀
I feel a bit over pnr, but if it’s suspense too, then yes maybe
blodeuedd recently posted…Author Interview and Giveaway: Bec McMaster
I have to be in a particular mood for PNR because a lot of it is rather cookie cutter, but this series has a nice edge to it.
I want to try Zanetti one of these days… do you not like romantic suspense?
braine recently posted…Loved It: Claudine by Barbara Palmer
I do, but it doesn’t fall under the paranormal umbrella, and I’m stuck in my ways.
I snagged Forgotten Sins and I am looking forward to reading these. I love romantic suspense. What I need my dear is more time!
kimbacaffeinate recently posted…Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
You and me both, Kimberly! There needs to be an 8th day in the week reserved exclusively for reading.
Woot! I really enjoyed this one. Had a hard time with the first hero but this one was so working for me. I so thought I’d read the next one but can’t for the life of me remember it. Huh. Will have to go searching the tablet for it. Might have to be the weekend read 🙂
anna (herding cats & burning soup) recently posted…Randomly Random–Tell me SOMETHING…Anything! Yes you. Over there. I wanna hear from you too!
The next one’s not out until 2015 as per the narrator’s comments above. See, I was the reverse, I liked Shane more than Matt, but that least this way we won’t be competing for the same fictional man. LOL
Ahhh see this is good. We won’t have to have a blogger girl throw down any time soon. Though maybe the next one once you’ve listened and I’ve read. Hmmm. lol
anna (herding cats & burning soup) recently posted…Randomly Random–Tell me SOMETHING…Anything! Yes you. Over there. I wanna hear from you too!
To be continued!
Paranormal Romance/Romantic Suspense? Interesting… I believe both you and Jennifer (TBN) reviewed the first book and liked it so I think I have this series on my TBR but I’ll have to double check… Sounds like a great listen with a real pro narrator, 150 audiobook narrations? That’s impressive! Great review Carmel.
Lori recently posted…Cover Reveal: ReBorn by Ada Adams + Giveaway
Yup, the Sin Brothers have been making the rounds of our mutual blogger peeps. I don’t know if Jennifer has reviewed this one yet though… Either way, White’s narration rocks!
That’s a lot of audiobooks she’s narrated
I know! It’s a miracle that she can keep so many different character voices straight.
It’s really nice to know that this is good in audio as well, Carmel. I’ve read this one, but not the first, and I’m actually reading Blind Faith right now. I have started to really enjoy romantic suspense stories, when they are well done, I get the best of both worlds – the mystery and suspense AND the hotness with some smexy scenes as well.
Your description of both Matt and Lainey is spot-on, too. I love the term grey protagonist – I wish I had come up with it 🙂
Have a great weekend, Carmel!
Lexxie recently posted…STS #50 / BBB #2 – Almost all for free
Oooh, I’m so jelly that you’ve read Blind Faith already!! I’m holding out for the audiobook. I’m happy that I did the characters justice in my review; I’m still new to this genre, so I wasn’t sure how it was going to turn out.
I love it when authors develop a potentially problematic character into one you could emphasise with in the next book. Sounds like Laney was a really great character for the brothers too. But uh oh, that sexy scene with an attempted murder? I read something like that in TAKE BACK THE SKIES and it was disturbing to say the least. Great review Carmel!
Jeann recently posted…Event Recap: Love YA Fest & Oz Comic Con September 2014
Putting new spins on steam scenes is always a challenge, but this particular one was something else. LOL You’re so right about problematic characters though!
I haven’t heard of this series, but alpha males! Gimme some of that. I mean it’s hard to make something bad with them. But honestly I like the sound of Laney here and she seems like a really interesting character. Great review, Carmel 🙂
Tanja recently posted…Crown of Ice by Vicki L. Weavil
I guess this series goes to show that alpha males don’t have to be werewolves to be sexy. Hehe Although, the dude on the cover is pretty freaking hairy.
I AM SO GLAD TO SEEE YOU ENJOYED THIS ONE TOO, CARMEL. I also have to say that, please don’t hate me, I still haven’t read book 1. I DON’T KNOW WHAT I AM WAITING FOR. It sounds like I’ll love it, I mean it’s rom sus, what’s not to love, but I don’t know. It just seems like I need the right moment to come about before diving in. Plus Anne Stuart has set humongously high bars and it’s hard to find rom-sus’ that measure up to her stuff.
Anyway, I PROMISE, I’ll get started… soon.
Lovely review, Carmel!! 🙂
I’m not familiar with Anne Stuart’s writing, so you are forgiven just so long as you don’t hold that against me. It probably helped that I was a Romantic Suspense virgin before this series because I was easy to impress, not that I’m knocking Zanetti or anything!
Waaaait, sexy time that led to a murder? I’m so confused there haha. Matt sounds like one of those stoic bad boys that are stickler for the rules. I like the fact that he’s so protective of his family. Definitely a good quality in the romantic interest! Glad the second book still rate highly! Wonderful review Carmel xx
Joy recently posted…Blog Tour & Review: The Jewel by Amy Ewing
I hear ya. That scene was definitely… different. Matt didn’t do it for me nearly as much as Shane, but I’m sure that there are a lot of readers out there who’ll disagree. That’s ok, more for me!
Holy shit, I love this series! I read it when it first came out and heard the audio a few months ago too. My favorites are books one (Shane, yum!) and book 3, they’re a close tie. I think the reason those worked for me better was because the MC’s already knew each other and had a connection. Although I really liked this one, it did feel rushed. I am so freaking pumped for the last book!!!!
I hope you like Nate’s story!
Nereyda recently posted…Stacking the Shelves (119) + Weekly Reca..
Another lucky girl who’s already gotten her hands on book 3. NO FAIR!!! At least now I know for sure that Blind Faith is going to deliver.
Are you talking about book 3 or 4? Book 3 is out already, book 4 I am DYING for!!!
Hope you like the next book 🙂
Nereyda recently posted…Audiobook Review: Sweet Thing by Renée ..
Sorry, my bad. It’s not out in AUDIO yet, but has been out in pb for a while now. I got the two confused.
I’m not much of an audio book person so I’ll have to skip on that but you’ve got me convinced to start the first book in this series and see how it goes! Lovely review 🙂
Audiobooks aren’t for everyone, but I’m happy that my review still convinced you to give this series a read.
I loved Blind Faith and will definitely be reading the other Sin Brothers books (sometime). I personally don’t listen to romance on audiobook if for no other reason that when I start my car an embarrassing sex scene could start playing with my MIL in the car…
Leila recently posted…Let’s Talk About Sex (In YA)
It seems like everyone has read Blind Faith except me. *stomps foot* I can totally sympathize with those awkward sex scenes in audio. I listened to one at work once, and kept thinking “OMG, they know!!!”
I’m still pretty new to audiobooks, but I’ve completely fallen in love. Such a great way to sneak some reading in while I’m cooking! I haven’t listened to a book narrated by Karen White yet – would you say this is one of her better series? I do enjoy the occasional romantic suspense and I think I’d enjoy Forgotten Sins.
Danya recently posted…Review: Visions by Kelley Armstrong
This series was my first experience with Karen White’s narration, so I’m not the right person to ask. And yes, audiobooks make chores suck less! 😀
LOL I agree that you *must* meet all the Sin Brothers before making a decision, Carmel. It’s only fair they each make their case. I’m glad you enjoyed this second installment even if it was a little less enjoyable than the first. I haven’t read this series of Zanetti’s but I’ve read some of her Dark Protectors series and enjoyed it. I’ll have to give this series at least a read, if not a listen. I’m still on the fence about audio although I have enjoyed The Hollows in audio. 🙂
Picking a favourite is no easy task, and requires extensive ‘research.’ I don’t fall in love with just ANY fictional man, ya know! 😉
Oh I completely agree. It’s nothing to be taken lightly. 😉 Cheers!
Bookworm Brandee recently posted…**Special Feature ~ OctobeRec Fest**