Talk about an emotional journey! Evidence of Desire had me captive from the very first scream...

Okay, I was invested before that but wow! What a story! First off, the light being shed on CTE is incredible. (Lexi Blake has definitely made a conscious effort to educate and bring light to an affliction that can happen to many.) Secondly, what a compelling way to start a book. Celebrity drama is always a conversation piece in some way or another.

I liked everything about this book. The characters, the chemistry, the case. Well, not everything there are at least two people who need to be taken behind a woodshed. I will let you figure out who they are! With that surprising twist, I can't help but shake my head.

Evidence of Desire is murder mystery meets romance. It's fun and intriguing. It's also steamy and alpha effectiveness is at an all time high. All evidence points to an entertaining read.

Evidence of Desire is the second book in Lexi Blake's Courting Justice series, and so far this is my favorite of the series. Although, it's too early to say since this is only the second book. I loved both the leading male and female characters though. The female character, Isla Shayne is one strong kick-butt lawyer. She's not a criminal lawyer but is a personal lawyer to Trey Adams and his family. Trey Adams is a former linebacker of the Guardians team who is now suffering from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). Isla ends up needing a lawyer for her client because she only handles Adam's family business dealings and financial matters. Not murder. She needs someone like David Cormack who is a criminal defense lawyer. David used to be apart of the same world her client was in up until he got injured on the football field and who could no longer play football. That's when David decided to go back to law school to be a lawyer. Now he has a new firm with his best friend Henry Garrison and two other lawyers.

This is when both Isla and David meet for the first time, and you would think it's instant love, but I do not consider it like that at all. Both characters are attracted to each other, but they are thrown together due to a tragedy. Poor Isla ends up in the mince of it all since she treats Trey and his family as her family. She never thought she would have to prove that her client didn't do anything wrong, even after he has had prior issues. She also needs to prove her innocence and the kids' innocence after everything.  I don't want to give anything away because this was a tremendous suspenseful contemporary romance book to read. I was on the edge of my seat when reading it. It was completely different from the first book. I became more connected to the characters and their feelings. David and his past with what he has gone through and why he has not let anyone in his life. Isla and her past and now present on what she has dealt with and continued to deal with in her life. Both are strong, determined characters that have similarities to them.

Lexi had some very steamy moments between the characters, but they were dialed down compared to Henry and Win in their book (which is the first book). David was what you would call someone who was resistant to having a happily ever after. Isla wants to love and have a family, and she finally believes she found it with David. Although, they have the crime that needs to be dealt with first. I figured out who was behind it all but was not expecting the big twist at the end of the book though. Lexi put me through the wringer in this book, especially after getting to know all the characters. I felt for everyone in this story.

I give this book 5 stars and highly recommend this to contemporary romance and romantic suspense readers out there. If you read any of Lexi's previous books/series, you will enjoy this book and this series. I look forward to the next book even more after reading this one. I'm anxious to read more about Noah Lawless and who tames him. He is a wild 'Lawless' family member.

Isla Shayne is the personal lawyer to former all-star linebacker Trey Adams who now suffers from CTE and is accused of murdering his wife. Because of his condition it breaks your heart to see the different phases that Trey goes through.

David Cormack is hired as his attorney;'and Trey's condition hits close to home for David because of his former football career. It highlights his own fears and possibilities.

There will be some heartfelt and shocking revelations surrounding this case. A wonderful second story in this series.

Wow! Lexi Blake always brings us some amazing stories!
Evidence of Desire is the second book in her Courting Justice series but can be read as a standalone.
This series is bringing a whole new group of hot, alpha men and those strong sassy women that we love so much. The added bonus is seeing some of the characters from her Masters and Mercenaries series and the crossover from her Lawless series.
This book dealt with relevant subject (CTE - Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) in a way that brings this very sensitive subject front and center. Also, in true Lexi Blake fashion we have a perfect combination of memorable characters, just the the right amount of mystery and intrigue and a storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish. So, just when you think that the mystery is solved, boom! We get another twist. Read, enjoy and can you guess who and why?

I can't remember the last time I read a romantic suspense book. I forgot how much fun they could be. The 'who did it' aspect of the storyline really makes you focus on what you're reading to see if you can figure out all the clues before the big reveal at the end. With Evidence of Desire, I did have it figured out by the end but, it took awhile for me to get there. Then it took it one step further and completely blew me away with a twist I hadn't seen coming at all. The storyline fell together so perfectly that it had you guessing right up until the end.

Isla, man I love that name and it suited this character. She was smart, loyal, funny, and independent but you could tell she wanted someone to take care of her. She showed her strength throughout the book but, it was that last stretch of the book when it's all coming together were she really shined.

David didn't really do it for me. He was brilliant and caring, he seemed to have his life figured out, but he let his fears rule him. We'd get glimpses of who he could be when he took charge in the bedroom or whenever Isla was facing a challenge but, that would all melt away and he'd get stuck in his head. I wanted to see him become more secure and assertive without the woman in his life pushing him into it.

This was a good book with a great group of secondary characters that have me excited to see what is coming next

Evidence of Desire is book 2 in the Courting Justice series but it stands alone. I enjoyed this one much more than book 1-I thought David and Isla were more enjoyable and relatable characters for sure!

Isla is a lawyer to the stars-she helps them with things like wills, business deals, and real estate. When one of her clients is accused of murder, she knows she needs to bring in a great criminal defense attorney. Enter David Cormack from Garrison, Cormack, and Lawless. David is a former pro athlete turned Harvard educated lawyer and agrees to help Isla defend Trey Adams, another former footballer who is accused of killing his wife.

CTE, or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, and its devastating effects plays a huge role in the story. Trey suffers from it and you get a glimpse into what life was like for him and his family. David is terrified he might end up with CTE as well. It invades his thoughts DAILY. David's fear might seem a bit premature or excessive, but I think lots of people experience some type of fear like this-cancer runs in a family and you become paranoid about getting cancer for example. Isla is the opposite-she isn't afraid of any illness and never lets it stand in the way of those she loves. Her fiancee died from leukemia and she stayed with him. Trey Adams is a close friend and she has never given up on him, even when he doesn't remember her. David and Isla have an instant lust for each other, but quickly realize its more than just lust. David's fears get in the way though; while this pushing away trope is annoying, I do understand his feelings. He can't fathom subjecting someone he loves to a life like Trey's family endured. So, irritating and dumb, but understandable.

Isla is one of my favorite heroines because she isn't afraid of her soft side. She doesn't pretend she can handle everything and be badass. She pukes when she finds the body. She cries when she is upset. She knows when she is in over her head and asks for help. I love this type of heroine because she is real.

Evidence of Desire was a great story beyond the characters, too. David and Isla are trying to figure out who killed Portia Adams: was it Trey? Could it have been an intruder? Can they trust Trey's memory at all? Throw in the fact that Isla is now the executor of the Adams' estate and you have 2 pissed off Adams children! The mystery is well done and while I figured out the major part of it before it was revealed, I didn't see the secondary reveal. Blake writes great suspense and very sexy romance, and Evidence of Desire is one of my new favorites!

Isla Shayne has built her law career working for a famous retired football player, Trey Adams, and his family. She is more than their attorney taking care of the family even after a murder throws everyone into chaos. Her specialty is far from criminal defense and because she is part of the investigation, David Cormack comes in to represent the person the local ADA wants to be charged whether he is actually guilty or not. Isla has several people to deal with including the family and prime suspect who suffers from CTE: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease which has become recognized to be much more common in football players than previously thought. This devastating disease not only affects her client, but just might possibly be in David’s future as he was a pro player as well.

As Isla and David investigate the crime and try to protect their client, they become quickly intertwined in a romance. David is intensely attracted to Isla and she to him; however, after witnessing the Trey’s heartbreaking decline, he fears putting someone he loves through that demanding and exhausting trial of watching a loved one suffer. There is much family drama to deal with including Trey Adam’s two twenty-somethings offspring for whom Isla is responsible for on top of her other duties.

Much of this story centers on the brutal results of CTE: the cause and the cover up in some respects by league owners who want their players to win no matter the cost. This romantic suspense tale has several mystery and suspense elements for fans of this genre. While the CTE is an important theme, it gets a bit repetitive especially about David’s issues. Isla doesn’t come across as a legal professional though it is understandable she has been through a trauma. This story is the second in the Courting Justice series, but can be read as a standalone.

Isla & David are perfect are made for each other. If you enjoy a strong determined woman than this is the story for you. She can handle any situation including the dangerous ones. David is a hot defense attorney who I would love to have on my side. The one woman he needs to change his loneliness and need for a woman in his life. I love a good, hot love story with tension and drama.

I have to say that I enjoyed this one even more than the first book!From the first pages I find myself hooked!In my opinion it would be better if you read the first book before you read this one.

I loved the characters and especially David.He was exactly what I was looking for in a book boyfriend.Isla is also great and I really liked them together too.

This story has a little bit of everything I like, an intense romance , suspense and drama!Another fantastic read from Lexi Blake!!

When Isla Shanye finds herself in a heap of trouble, and uncertain how to find her way out she puts a call into a friend, and it lands former turf God, now turned lawyer, David Cormack on her doorstep. The moment he walks into her disheveled life, she quickly understands all the hype about him, he exudes strength and sex appeal. He also brings a calmness to her world that she has never known, he makes her feel as though everything will be fine. And she needs that right now, especially now that the law is circling around her, and ready to put her behind bars for a crime she didn't commit!

Evidence of Desire had it all... captivating drama, scintillating romance, and edge of your seat suspense to keep you flying through the pages! I absolutely loved this second installment in the Courting Justice series, the story line was outstanding, and the characters brought life to the pages. It was just like a night at the movies between the pages of this one, all I had to do was sit back and watch it all unfold... and boy was it a treat for my eyes! Be prepared to have your mind rocked by this one, Ms. Blake has truly put her best words in this one, the ending will leave your jaw on the floor, and have you craving more!! Highly recommend!!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.

Just when I think Ms. Blake can't move me any more, she breaks out a tear jerker with this latest book. I loved this story and within the first few minutes, I'm tearing up. This is a second in a spin off series and it is glorious. For those who are starting out with this book, it's recommended to read the first book to understand the backstory of a couple of secondary characters. Still, this book can be read as a standalone.

Moving through this law firm, David is up for his love story. I liked David in the first book. Learning about his fears and how he became a lawyer is impressive. What I liked about his situation is how applicable it is in today's sports climate. Ms. Blake brings this touchy subject up front and center. She shows both sides and with compassion. She plays out some what if scenarios with heart breaking consequences. This plot driven story is filled with compassion and heart. Love it.

Isla is David's love interest and she is in a bind. Her number one client is accused of murder and it isn't pretty. This story kind of reminds me of a Bull episode but so much better. After watching so many Bull episodes, my mind is whirling as I try to poke holes with the DA's case. I like seeing it from the defendant's point of view. I also like how Ms. Blake doesn't make it easy for Isla and David to fight and defend Trey's case. The obstacles they run into make this story more complex and painful to witness. It is painful because it seems absolutely hopeless. How with this major conflict resolve? The twists and turns to reveal what really happens is done so well. This "who done it" story kept my attention riveted the entire time.

The romance element in this so sweet. Isla and David's whirlwind love affair goes up and down. What holds David back is a very serious fear. Their couple of steps forward and a few steps back are frustrating yet so realistic. Their intimacy is what I love best. The sexual tension is well done as ever Ms. Blake book is written. I did bypass the sex because it was too vanilla for me. It is their time together and the little moments of discovery which really made this romance so good. This romantic suspense is highly recommended to all romance readers.

I really enjoyed this second book in this series. Isla and David are perfect for each other. She is you head strong determined women who doesn't take no for an answer. Even when faced with dangerous situations, she doesn't back down. David is one sexy, hot defense attorney who believes he can't have happiness. Needless to say, Isla changes that for him. Hopefully there will be more books in this series.

The story begins with page-turning thrill and mystery. David Cormack of Garrison, Cormack and Lawless is a criminal attorney and called to the scene of a recent murder. His expertise in the field, along with his NFL past are the perfect combination for the case of a lifetime. If only his past wasn’t a huge skeleton that haunts him like a plague.

Isla Shayne, a personal lawyer for the Adams’ estate used to dealing with business and financial matters, knows she’s not qualified to deal with what’s been thrown at her, feels instantly better when David enters the picture, but also an instant attraction that she hasn’t felt since her fiancé died several years ago.

Portia Adams was murdered, the wife to a former pro football player, Trey Adams. The who-done-it aspect of the crime is left hanging until the very end of the book, but I have to admit the most engrossing part of the book comes into play when we see the constant fear David lives with and that this case in particular brings those fears right to the front line.

CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) a degenerative brain disease mostly found in athletes is front and center throughout the book. It’s a disease that athletes who succumb to too many head injuries can suffer as they age and Trey Adams is a victim of this awful disease. David, himself, worries with his past that he too could become a victim of CTE and could he end up a shell of his former self like the great Trey Adams.

Over and over again we see how CTE has affected the lives of everyone around Trey, both in a good and bad way. It gives David and Isla different perspectives about taking care of loved ones, but you’ll see why as their personalities about each other emerge throughout the story. (I don’t want to give too much away.)

Even more than finding the killer, the story of living with and taking care of someone with any debilitating disease is a subject that comes front and center in this book. It’s touching and real how these characters react. They have both dealt with loss in their lives and are stubborn (given they are both lawyers) to boot. Their dynamic as they work together is good, even better is when the entire team is around, they are an infectious bunch. I’m already itching to read Noah Lawless’s book, his youth and humor is fantastic.

I know this book is not out yet and I just requested it not to long ago, but this book will be a pass for me. I just finished my first Lexi Blake book, in this series to be exact, and I was no where close to being a big fan of it. Lexi's writing style is not my jam and I would hate to read this knowing that and end up giving the book a low star rating, as I did with Order of Protection.

Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this. Also, the star rating does not reflect my opinion of the book.

It was really hard not to get sucked into this one right away, lost of salacious happenings going on. A famous couple, one of them murdered, the other the could be killer, then there are their kids, are they totally innocent. Through it all we have a group of lawyers working for the famous family, trying to figure out what happened and who the real killer is. Of course being a Lexi Blake book there is romance along the way.

What I really liked about this one was that while the romance between Isla and David was there, it had a quiet quality to it. Both Isla and David really wanted to find out what happened and make sure the real killer was put away.

By the time you get to the end of the book you realize what a waste of life happened, on a couple of levels. I'm torn with the choice that Isla and David made at the end. Part of me thinks they will do great things by making the choice they did, but another part of me wants everything exposed.

Isla and David's story was filled with intrigue, chemistry, and anticipation. We got to meet David in Win and Henry's story, and we got to see those two make a guest appearance in this one. Their story does not play into this one, so you don't need to have read it to enjoy Isla and David's. I loved how pure Isla was. She always looked for the good in people, while still being realistic. David had a harder time with their relationship and his fear was valid. Isla just managed to break through those fears and allow David to see their time together was worth any potential pain down the road. This story was well written and I found myself not wanting to put it down. I figured out who the killer was, but not the motivation. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep readers intrigued. I definitely recommend this book.

I had a hard time getting into this book and felt like I was missing vital information just because I didn't read the first book. I couldn't get invested in the main love story or who killed the wife. The love scenes were shmaltzy and cringe-worthy because of how cliche it was. I didn't even care who killed the wife by the end of the book. There was no tension in the climax either. Lexi Blake is not for me

This book combines a sexy romance, a legal procedural drama, and a murder mystery in which the main suspect, a former pro football player, suffers from CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) a degenerative brain disease mostly found in athletes.

I figured out who the murderer was from the gitgo, something I usually am clueless about. It was the introductory language that made me go hmmm, so instead of surprise, I had tension as the story unfolded and I waited to see if I was right.

The hero and heroine were sympathetic, and the story behind the murder victim and her accused husband was tragic. Lexi Blake did a good job with keeping the pacing going, and providing vivid and increasingly tense scenes.

This was something of an experiment for me, as I prefer there to be humor in my romances. Comedies of manners being my favorite.

It was a fast read, which I appreciated, but too much tragedy to hook me into this subgenre.

4 1/2 stars!! I really enjoyed this story as a whole, not just the mystery of it but the relationship aspects as well. It was so well written. First off the non stop guessing about whodunit was just so entertaining and made it impossible for me to put this down! I actually never saw that ending coming! Next, I totally love Isla and David's relationship throughout. They have fantastic chemistry and great banter between them. They are perfect for each other! Yes they have to get over a very big hurdle but I really liked the way those scenes played out and that whole storyline. Lastly, the whole Trey/Portia storyline is simply heartbreaking but I also felt okay with where that went in the end.

This was a pretty captivating story form the beginning to end. I loved Gabe and Isla but it was also Trey and Portia's story that had me riveted. You really feel like you get two love stories in one. Sadly, one ended in tragedy but it was still very beautiful. I almost wish we could get a book on Trey and Portia, that's how much their story intrigued me.

Due to the nature of what happens right in the beginning, we get a whole host of side characters and each one played a big role to the overall story. Each character drew a reaction out of me, good and bad. This had a "who did it" theme and while I suspected right away who it was, I was still drawn in to the whole investigation. There was also a reason to the crime and that one stumped me at first.

As for the main couple, I loved David. He had a fear that threatened his relationship with Isla but the way Isla handled it made me completely ok with his resistance. When he wasn't resisting, he was pretty alpha with her and I like that in my heroes. Isla was just an all around nice woman. Some may have viewed her as weak but she was just a caring person. When she needed to fight, she fought.

I really enjoyed Evidence of Desire and would recommend to pretty much any reader who wants a good love story and a good puzzle to solve.