Cover Image: Down Deep

Down Deep

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Member Reviews

I love it when a book delivers everything I'm expecting from the synopsis and so much more. I loved Ian and Kennedy so much. Talk about opposites attracting. Kennedy is a woman that didn't have it easy growing up and she's a woman determined to make something of herself than being the girl "from the wrong side of the tracks."

As a Veteran, Ian has seen more than his fair share of bad things and situations.and he seems to have it all under control as a fireman/arson investigator at Station 17. And the night he meets Kennedy, he's drawn to her but that attraction is somewhat stymied when the bar catches on fire!

And so begins an element of this story I wasn't expecting but totally loved!! There's the growing feelings between Kennedy and Ian as they investigate the who and why of the bar fire, but also the suspense of this investigation. Ms. Kinkaid does a fabulous job of building this story and their romance. It moves at just the right pace and I was fully engaged the entire time I was reading the book.

There's heat in and out of the bedroom and I wasn't expecting the results of their investigation which is a sign of a great romantic suspense book! I highly recommend Ms. Kinkaid, this book and series!!

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I really enjoyed the slow burn storyline of this story and the way the characters developed a relationship. it really explored ho they developed feelings for each other and the chemistry they have with each other. The storyline was interesting and enjoyable.

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Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com

3.75 Hearts Kennedy is an every woman. She has had a hard life. She is trying to get her life together. She has a brother…. And a bar. Ian has been through a lot. As a Marine and firefighter he has lived a life full or order and danger.

When a dumpster goes up in flames their relationship gets hot. They work to prove who the arsonist is because many think it is Kennedy’s brother and Ian is going to keep her safe even if she doesn’t want him to.

Really good read. Well written and light-hearted.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

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Ian could never forget the soldiers that never made it home. Every year on the anniversary of their deaths he feels loss consume him. He was in the right place at the right time to save Kennedy. She in turns tries to save her brother before an arsonist can strike again. Working with Ian slowly becomes more as the heat turns up. Definitely enjoyed reading this author for the first time.

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3 stars

Firefighters are my jam. I love a good firefighter book. This one was just ok for me. There was a little suspense and a few too many issues with Kennedy and her brother. It didn't sit right with me.

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Kincaid has once again written an enjoyable book with relatable, likable characters. Both Ian Gamble and and Kennedy Matthews bring their own strengths and their own baggage to the table, and I enjoyed the way they grew together. For me, the suspense wasn't what grabbed me in this story, rather the character development.

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Ian Gamble is a firefighter, but once a year he decides to drink more than he should to honor the friends he lost when he was on a mission with the Marines. Thinking that the night is over he decides to help Kennedy Matthews who manages the bar and is tough women. They have also been flirting a little, but each of them is not wanting to start anything. Getting ready to leave Ian smells fire and gets Kennedy out. Once outside and waiting for the fire department to arrive, Ian notices that Kennedy is acting strange. That is because she has recognized one of the people driving away from the car that looks like started the fire. What begins as a simple fire turns into both of them finding about each other’s past, not that either one really wants to give up any information. They also come across a guy who is looking to do more than just burn buildings, but also kill people. When her brother is injured by this guy he decides to help the police and what you have now is a mystery with a love story thrown together. It is done okay and the characters are strong enough to keep the story flowing along. Overall a good book.

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3.5 stars--DOWN DEEP is the fourth full-length and eighth instalment in Kimberly Kincaid’s contemporary, adult STATION SEVENTEEN romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work at Station Seventeen. This is fire fighter and US Marine Ian Gamble, and bartender Kennedy Matthews’ story line. DOWN DEEP can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is a continuing theme throughout.

Told from several third person perspectives including Ian and Kennedy DOWN DEEP follows the building relationship between fire fighter and former Marine Ian Gamble, and bartender Kennedy Matthews following an arson fire at The Crooked Angel Bar and Grill-a hang out for the local fire fighters and police. From the outset a brooding Ian suspects Kennedy of keeping secrets about the potential arsonist, an arsonist who is close to Kennedy’s heart. What ensues is the building relationship between Kennedy and Ian as our couple begin a behind the scenes investigation, going rogue in an effort to find out the truth, before the authorities begin to piece together the cues and information.

Ian Gamble suffers and struggles with survivor’s guilt and remorse in the wake of loosing the men in his Force Marine Recon unit years before. As the sole survivor Ian’s yearly ‘salute’ to his men involves a night of drinking to forgive and forget. Kennedy Matthews grew up on the ‘wrong side of the tracks’ but she continues to focus on the brother with whom she had hoped to reconnect.


DOWN DEEP focuses on the search for an arsonist whose identity is revealed early on but an arsonist with a sadistic side who isn’t above hurting those who’ve done him wrong. For me, the suspense is limited due in part to the early reveal; the conflict focuses on the relationship struggles between Kennedy and Ian, and the take down of the people responsible for the arson fires. The colorful secondary and supporting characters are numerous including several members of law enforcement and Station Seventeen.

The relationship between Kennedy and Ian is slow to build; the sexual attraction is palpable and hot but the jump from lust to love is questionable and as a direct result of events and circumstance that brings the couple together. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

DOWN DEEP is a intriguing and entertaining story line. The premise is well paced and engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are dynamic and spirited. DOWN DEEP is worth the price of admission-check it out and enjoy.

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Down Deep is a great read!! I love the stories of Station Seventeen & have been waiting for Ian's story. It didn't disappoint. The chemistry between Ian & Kennedy jumps off the page & the story is very well written.

This is a series but each book can be read as a stand alone.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

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Ian Gamble is Engine 17’s lieutenant and a former marine. He likes control, order and abides by the rules. He is intense, focused, and caring. His bond is tight with his firefighter family but he still keeps a little distance. And from the cover model, a total hottie!

Kennedy had a rough childhood but has pulled herself up to a better life, going to college, getting her own place and working a job she likes. She attempted to bring her younger brother, whom she raised, with her, but he refused. As time has gone by, they grew further and further apart.

When an arsonist lights up the dumpster behind the bar Kennedy works at, she and Ian become entangled in investigating it. As clues begin to point to her brother, Kennedy is adamant in her belief he didn’t have anything to do with it.

During their investigation, the chemistry between the two starts skyrocketing. Ian is still reeling from losing several of his military friends and Kennedy continues to struggle to keep her life going the direction she wants it to go. Both are strong, likeable characters.

The author does a great job of mixing suspense and romance, and holds your attention for the duration of the story. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the author.

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I got stuck in this book. Once we find out that her brother was behind the first fire and she didn't say anything I sorta skimmed after that. Her character has plenty of chances to say something but chose not to, not really my kind of leading lady. This just turned me off. Maybe if it was kept on the down low that it was her brother and we didn't find out until later maybe it would have been better but had a hard time finishing.

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Feel the HEAT! Hot and good. I love this series of stories and Gamble is so far my favorite. He's got demons and doesn't want any help with them. Along comes Kennedy who pushes Gamble and the sparks fly. Nicely written with strong characters and fiery romance. Enjoyed

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4.5 stars

I really enjoyed Down Deep by Kimberly Kincaid, it was one of those books you didn't want to put down.

The writing is well done, the storyline entertaining from start to finish and Ian and Kennedy are likable, relatable characters that warmed my heart watching them fall in love.

Overall, Down Deep is a great read and a wonderful addition to the Station Seventeen series.

*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the advance copy.*

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Blog Tour, Review & Excerpt: DOWN DEEP: Station Seventeen by Kimberly Kincaid https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aN9
Publication Date: June 18, 2018
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 5 Stars

I truly enjoyed this pulse-pumping romantic suspense. Gamble and Kennedy were both people I could relate to, even if the danger swirling around them was not – but that’s what makes it fun. Kennedy is a tough woman with a tender heart, and ghosts from Gamble’s past give him the perfect depth to make theirs a good match. The smoking hot romance was not forced and progressed nicely through all the dangerous twists and turns. Making it an exciting, sexy read. I can’t wait for the next installment.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle https://amzn.to/2yQtRFN

BOOK 1 is FREE for a Limited Time!
✦FREE ➢ SKIN DEEP: Station Seventeen Book One by Kimberly Kincaid
Kindle http://amzn.to/2bKEMoA | Review 4.5 Stars http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-6tS

✦Station Seventeen Series by Kimberly Kincaid✦
Book 1: SKIN DEEP ➢ Review 4.5 Stars http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-6tS | Kindle http://amzn.to/2pSyJ8G
Novella: Deep Check (Previously published in HOT ON ICE Anthology) ➢ Review 5 Stars http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-8gK | Kindle http://amzn.to/2qEmJqR
Book 2: DEEP BURN ➢ Review 5 Stars http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-8YP | Kindle http://amzn.to/2qyJ8EU
Book 3: IN TOO DEEP ➢ Review 5 Stars http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-a5Q | Kindle http://amzn.to/2xPJr2q
Novella: FOREVER DEEP ➢ Review 4.5 Stars https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-alc | Kindle http://amzn.to/2izFnu0
Book 4: DOWN DEEP ➢ Kindle https://amzn.to/2yQtRFN

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Down Deep is the forth book in Kimberly Kincaid’s Station Seventeen series and I highly recommend readers grab their copy. I love this series, Ian & Kennedy are the featured characters in this addition and they are amazing. This well written, engaging story took me on a journey from beginning to end and I just loved every minute.

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Dangerous, exciting and oh so sexy! With the next installment in Kimberly Kincaid's ever-hot Station Seventeen series, we get sexy Lieutenant Gamble's story! I knew when I saw that he was getting mixed up with the sassy Kennedy that it would be a spicy, fun read ... and it did not disappoint! This entire series has been a really enjoyable read with close-knit characters, danger and intrigue at the forefront and hot romantic connections galore!

Firefighter Ian Gamble is busy drinking the past off his mind at the station's favorite hangout, The Crooked Angel when the place catches fire. His experience with fire and danger allows him to lead the way to safety for feisty bar manager Kennedy Matthews. When an investigation leads to an arson call, Gamble is determined to get to the bottom of who is messing with his territory ... especially when Kennedy starts acting shifty!

Kennedy Matthews comes from a hard background, and the one person that she would do anything for is her little brother. When she catches sight of the fact that he's somehow mixed up with a dangerous arsonist, she's determined to find a way to help him, no matter what. Gamble doesn't want her putting herself into danger, so he insists on riding shotgun on her adventure ... and you know close proximity between two firecrackers like that is going to lead to sparks that will more than sizzle!

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HOLY AMAZEBALLS! Kimberly Kincaid once again brings us readers another Station Seventeen book . *Swoon* I absolutely LOVED this book. Ian and Kennedy are one hot smokin couple that need their own zip code. *fans self*
I couldn't put the book down once I started reading it.

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The third book in the Station Seventeen series brings together Ian and Kennedy, two secondary characters in previous books finally gets their own story. Down Deep is also full of heat of the bedroom kind as well as the arson kind. When these two finally started acting on their attraction no one really predicted that it would end in a fire, literally! As they investigate what caused it and who might be involved, both their painful pasts comes to light. Down Deep is as exciting and suspenseful as the previous books, both the characters are multilayered and well developed making their romance hot, emotional and captivating. This is one is a great addition to the series.

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Ian Gamble wishes he could forget his past. Too bad a night of drinking at the Crooked Angel Bar won't make that happen. However, it's just lucky that he's at the bar when a fire breaks out and he manages to get Kennedy Matthews, the bar's manager out without any problems. Yet, when the investigation is ruled arson, Ian pushes Kennedy to tell him what she's hiding, especially since he knows she's holding something back to do with the investigation. But when he learns the truth, Ian wonders whether he'll be able to protect Kennedy from what's to come because her brother is in way over his head or will they lose their shot at happy ever after because an arsonist will do anything to put a stop to the people trying to take him down?

What do readers get when Ms. Kincaid pens a story encompassing a strong hero tortured by his past and a resilient and feisty heroine determined to do everything she can to help her brother; highly entertaining dialogue that -- at times -- kept this reader on the edge-of-her-seat; and a fast-paced plot that drew this reader in from the very beginning and made it impossible to put this book down? Well, the answer is an utterly satisfying and mesmerizing read where this couple's chemistry is off-the-charts and their scorching romance does their chemistry justice.

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories and everything they go through on their journey to happy ever after, as Ian has survivor's guilt due to his time as a marine while Kennedy feels she's let her brother down. Will the pair be able to help her brother? Will Kennedy be able to help Ian heal from his past? Moreover, I loved both the main characters. They were incredible and have such a great support team in the secondary characters who will do anything to take down someone determined to cause so much destruction.

With the heroine, she really impressed me with the way she stands up to Ian when he thinks he knows what's best for her. Certainly, her it's-my-way-or-I-go-it-alone attitude and her determination to help her brother makes things interesting and cause plenty of tension since Ian doesn't like how trusting Kennedy is of her brother. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is the way she helps Ian to work through his past. Things happen for a reason and what happened wasn't his fault. While the hero, he's been through so much in his past and I couldn't help but sympathize with him, as his parents weren't the best of parents and it's understandable why he joined to the marines as a way to escape. However, everything that's happened in his past has made him the resilient and remarkable man he is. I also liked how determined he was to protect Kennedy, even though she's really good at protecting herself.

Overall, this story was a fantastic read, as too, are the other books of this series. As for the ending, it had me worried for the main characters and was a total shock because of what happens, but I loved how things worked out for Ian and Kennedy as they're so good together and for each other. Deep Down by Kimberly Kincaid will appeal to fans of authors Jennifer Bernard, Kate Meader, Shannon Stacey and Jennifer Blackwood, but in my opinion it's a must read just like the first three books of the series are.

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<a href="http://booksofmyheart.net/2018/06/21/down-deep-by-kimberly-kincaid/" target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart</a>

Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
<p style="text-align: left;">I'm a fan of Kimberly Kincaid and some of her other series. Since I enjoy stories about fire fighters, I 've been reading her <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/187248-station-seventeen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em><strong>Station Seventeen serie</strong></em>s</a>.  <strong> Down Deep</strong> continues the tradition of young people committed to their work, friends and families. But because they are young, they have some growth remaining. Or in this case, they are too young to have seen so much and they have to learn to live with it.
Gamble is a strong, ex-military guy who is a lieutenant in the fire station. He's capable, caring and well ensconced in his firefighter brotherhood.  There are parts of himself and his past, he keeps to himself. His moral integrity and hard work make it easy to like him.

Kennedy has her work managing the local bar which is a fire / police hangout. It brought her out of the bad part of town and the survival life she had there. Only her brother is left, but he didn't come with her. She believes in him and will do almost anything to protect him. She is feisty and capable.

Gamble understands Kennedy's inclination to protect her brother and tries to help. This brings them together in emotional and moral dilemmas.  The rules aren't always structured to do what is really right; sometimes the only options are dangerous. During the fight to catch the arsonist, they are laid bare to each other - emotionally and physically. We have suspenseful police work and a quickly lit romance.  The characters are authentic being honest with themselves and each other which I like.  They make a hot couple finally letting go when they might usually hold back.  I'll continue to look forward to more, especially with the teams from both the fire and police departments with so many characters I now know and love.
<h4><strong>Excerpt:</strong></h4>
<blockquote><span style="font-weight: 400;">Watching his friends head back toward the pool table, he couldn’t help but shake his head a little at the idea of a relationship that deep. Sexual attraction, he got. A couple of hot-sex hookups here and there to satisfy said attraction? He got those, too. But the sort of no-holds-barred love that McCullough and Capelli and a few other members of Seventeen had tumbled into lately seemed as alien to him as little green men, complete with flying saucers and moon dust. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">People swore they saw that shit; hell, they believed it in their bones. But as far as he was concerned, they were all fucking crazy.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“Well, well. Lieutenant Gamble. Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes?”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;"> The throaty, feminine voice hit Gamble point-blank from the business end of the bar, and God </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">damn</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> it, he must have more of a beer buzz than he’d thought. He was almost always hyper-aware of his surroundings—especially when they involved someone as sexy as Kennedy Matthews. Yet, here she was in front of him, wearing a form-fitting red top and a brash, brows-up stare, and for a fleeting second, he wondered if her smile tasted as tart as it looked.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“If you say so,” he told her, while snuffing out the unbidden thought. Not that he hadn’t entertained it dozens of times before, or thought about tasting Kennedy in places other than her mouth. But as the manager and head bartender of their regular hangout, she was almost as much a part of his inner circle as his fellow firefighters, and—like his rookie—Gamble knew far better than to muddy that water with a good, fast fuck. “Can I get another beer, please?”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Kennedy’s darkly lined eyes widened for just a heartbeat before narrowing over the frost-covered bottle in his hand, the piercing in her eyebrow glinting in the soft overhead light of the bar.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“That one is nearly full.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“Not for long.” He was already on his way to a decent beer buzz, courtesy of the bartender who had been working this section of the bar before Kennedy had come out of the back. He’d stick to beer for now to keep a low profile. Once everyone from Seventeen started heading home in a little while, he’d kick his night into high gear. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Kennedy paused. She was tougher than she looked, which was saying something since she had as much ink and even more hardware than Gamble did, with a watercolor tattoo that spanned from the middle of her bicep to her shoulder and the top of her chest, and tiny silver studs and hoops marching all the way up her left ear to match the piercing in her eyebrow. But he returned her calculating stare with one of his own, until she lifted one sleekly muscled shoulder and let it drop. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s your liver, tough guy.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">            She reached into the cooler built in beneath the bar, popping the cap off the beer she’d unearthed and placing it over a napkin on the glossy wood in front of him before turning to saunter off. Gamble watched her go, his eyes lingering on the way her ass filled out her jeans like a fuckable version of an upside-down heart. He couldn’t deny being tempted. Shit, he’d have to be pulseless not to be. But even if he </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">did</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> decide to break his personal protocol and see if Kennedy was up for blowing off a little steam between the sheets, it wouldn’t be tonight.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Tonight wasn’t about anything other than him, a bottle of Patrón Platinum, and the ghosts he’d never shake.</span></blockquote>

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