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True Alaskans #1
True Gold
Growing up in True, Alaska, the only truth I knew was that Delilah Campbell was an arrogant pain in my ass. She was also my everything, and still haunts my every waking moment.
I don’t have a single memory that doesn’t include Lie, and I can still taste her, even though Alaska’s no longer big enough for the both of us. After our savage breakup, I fled, chasing my dream and becoming a decorated Green Beret. Ten years later, one bad jump propelled me straight from Special Forces back home, guiding rich idiots into the wilderness, where I struggle to keep them from getting themselves killed. It’s not the life I planned, but at least I’m not behind a desk somewhere.
Then one night, my cell rings, shattering my peaceful existence.
“Connor,� I’d recognize her voice anywhere, and it’s like I’m sixteen again, crazy in love and cocky as hell after finding all those gold bars everyone's been searching for since before we were even born.
I want to tell her to go to hell and throw my phone in the river, but it seems Delilah’s visceral grip on me is permanent.
“It’s mom. She’s missing. I need your help�."
I don’t have a single memory that doesn’t include Lie, and I can still taste her, even though Alaska’s no longer big enough for the both of us. After our savage breakup, I fled, chasing my dream and becoming a decorated Green Beret. Ten years later, one bad jump propelled me straight from Special Forces back home, guiding rich idiots into the wilderness, where I struggle to keep them from getting themselves killed. It’s not the life I planned, but at least I’m not behind a desk somewhere.
Then one night, my cell rings, shattering my peaceful existence.
“Connor,� I’d recognize her voice anywhere, and it’s like I’m sixteen again, crazy in love and cocky as hell after finding all those gold bars everyone's been searching for since before we were even born.
I want to tell her to go to hell and throw my phone in the river, but it seems Delilah’s visceral grip on me is permanent.
“It’s mom. She’s missing. I need your help�."
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2019
146 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Pace
19Ìýbooks611ÌýfollowersRaised in small town Iowa, Michelle Pace is an international best-selling, multi-genre author. After studying theater and vocal music and directing and performing in numerous productions, Michelle went on to earn degrees in both liberal arts and nursing.
Determined to avoid shoveling snow, she relocated to the Lone Star State with her husband, author L.G. Pace III. Michelle is a mother of three, and she enjoys traveling, live music, and is an enthusiastic amateur beer connoisseur.
Still most at home while entertaining an audience, her mission is to write gripping fiction, not fairy tales.
Determined to avoid shoveling snow, she relocated to the Lone Star State with her husband, author L.G. Pace III. Michelle is a mother of three, and she enjoys traveling, live music, and is an enthusiastic amateur beer connoisseur.
Still most at home while entertaining an audience, her mission is to write gripping fiction, not fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 2, 2019
2.5 Stars
I spent most of this book waiting for something to happen. It felt like we were always on the verge of something but then it would peter out. Near the end the action started and then it lived up to it’s romantic suspense genre. However, I do wish Lilah and Connor would have worked through the past and their issues a little better. It seems as if they just swept everything under the rug all because of being each other’s first loves.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I spent most of this book waiting for something to happen. It felt like we were always on the verge of something but then it would peter out. Near the end the action started and then it lived up to it’s romantic suspense genre. However, I do wish Lilah and Connor would have worked through the past and their issues a little better. It seems as if they just swept everything under the rug all because of being each other’s first loves.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
July 8, 2019
I read an early copy of this manuscript years ago, and I loved everything about it, just like I did this second time around. True Gold is the perfect blend of mystery, suspense and romance, set in the beautiful backdrop of Alaska, and I absolutely adored it.
July 26, 2020
The first book in a new second chance romantic suspense - True Alaskan series - from a new-to-me-author, and one that promises more adventures soon (now available for one-clicking).
I’m not going to tell you what happened. In my opinion, spoilers reduce the enjoyment, the suspense and overall ruin reading experiences for others in my opinion. So, no spoilers ahead!
Neither am I a storyteller � and I have no desire to retell someone else’s story. I just want to share my feelings and emotions that, as a reader, I felt and experienced. It’s my desire to include some of my favorite things about this book and the author’s writing, its characters, and plot.
The author has given us two strong and determined lead characters, along with a well-developed and fairly large cast of the good, bad and ugly. Delilah is an audacious and spirited heroine. Connor, a former Green Beret, has all the traits of an alpha male. Both were born and raised on the rugged Kenai peninsula of Alaska, south of Anchorage. And once upon a time they were high school sweethearts planning a future together and then . . . well, you’ll need to read the book to find out what happened back then and why they now find themselves both back on home turf after a decade apart locking horns at every turn. Together they make a fiery and irresistible combination.
The element of suspense, an unsolved case of stolen gold, makes for an intriguing plotline and a strong draw, along with the Alaskan setting. After being drawn to several books set in Alaska this year and completely fascinated and entertained so far, I couldn’t resist giving this new series a try as well. And I’m not regretting my decision for one second - there's lots of gold to be found in the Alaskan wilderness and the action never stops.
One minor blip, an ending that came too soon, left me a bit disappointed even with a happy-for-now ending. I have high hopes, and there seems to be hints that we’ll pick up a little more from this couple in Midnight Son, the second book in this series featuring Andie, who is Lilah’s sister, and Boone, both of whom you'll meet in this first installment.
Go in blind and I hope you’ll find everything you’re looking for in a “goodread(s).�
I’m not going to tell you what happened. In my opinion, spoilers reduce the enjoyment, the suspense and overall ruin reading experiences for others in my opinion. So, no spoilers ahead!
Neither am I a storyteller � and I have no desire to retell someone else’s story. I just want to share my feelings and emotions that, as a reader, I felt and experienced. It’s my desire to include some of my favorite things about this book and the author’s writing, its characters, and plot.
The author has given us two strong and determined lead characters, along with a well-developed and fairly large cast of the good, bad and ugly. Delilah is an audacious and spirited heroine. Connor, a former Green Beret, has all the traits of an alpha male. Both were born and raised on the rugged Kenai peninsula of Alaska, south of Anchorage. And once upon a time they were high school sweethearts planning a future together and then . . . well, you’ll need to read the book to find out what happened back then and why they now find themselves both back on home turf after a decade apart locking horns at every turn. Together they make a fiery and irresistible combination.
The element of suspense, an unsolved case of stolen gold, makes for an intriguing plotline and a strong draw, along with the Alaskan setting. After being drawn to several books set in Alaska this year and completely fascinated and entertained so far, I couldn’t resist giving this new series a try as well. And I’m not regretting my decision for one second - there's lots of gold to be found in the Alaskan wilderness and the action never stops.
One minor blip, an ending that came too soon, left me a bit disappointed even with a happy-for-now ending. I have high hopes, and there seems to be hints that we’ll pick up a little more from this couple in Midnight Son, the second book in this series featuring Andie, who is Lilah’s sister, and Boone, both of whom you'll meet in this first installment.
Go in blind and I hope you’ll find everything you’re looking for in a “goodread(s).�
June 16, 2019
True Gold is Michelle Pace's latest.
What I loved about it? Mystery, thriller, suspense, a solid romance. The characters were complex, smart and relatable. Michelle does a great job with setting in each of her books I've read -- she makes the environment (in this case somewhere in remote Alaska) come alive.
What I loved about it? Mystery, thriller, suspense, a solid romance. The characters were complex, smart and relatable. Michelle does a great job with setting in each of her books I've read -- she makes the environment (in this case somewhere in remote Alaska) come alive.
July 6, 2019
A second chance wrapped tightly in romantic suspense�
Connor and Lilah’s past started when they were young. They shared adventures, firsts and, unfortunately, lasts as well. When Lilah was compelled back to her home in Alaska, the first person she reached out to was Connor. For good or bad�
This was my first read by this author and it proved to be a complicated read heavy on mystery and emotional drama. While love was at the center of much of the conflict, the romance took a back seat to the fallout of past decisions. Intriguing characters, all shrouded in things unsaid, meant much of the read was spent wondering everyone’s motives and who was the bad guy(s). Lilah’s character was my favourite with her spine of steel and strength when dealing with her family and the cards she was dealt with. Not to say she didn’t have a hand in her destiny. She was all for taking the bull by its horns and thrashing it about, never backing down when confronted. Connor knew her strengths and her weaknesses, making him one of the few who could soothe her temper. And rile it up like no other�
An emotional love story heavy on mystery and intrigue, it all blended together into a completely satisfying read. I’ll be looking for this author again.
July 3, 2019
I can’t lie. I’m a fan of Michelle Pace’s. Always have been, always will be.
This book is a bit different from her norm, but not in a bad way. There’s suspense, mystery, romance, and of course lots of sarcastic wit.
Connor and Lie hold a special place in my heart for many reasons. This fast paced, action filled, “I don’t wanna� romance will keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I promise.
This book is a bit different from her norm, but not in a bad way. There’s suspense, mystery, romance, and of course lots of sarcastic wit.
Connor and Lie hold a special place in my heart for many reasons. This fast paced, action filled, “I don’t wanna� romance will keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I promise.
Shelved as '05-later'
August 6, 2019
June 16, 2019
I have seriously waited so long for this book. Ever since another author read an early manuscript and gushed about it being so amazing, I knew I had to read it. So I waited, waited and waited some more. But in the end it was so worth it. The only bad thing I can say is it ended way too quickly. But I couldn’t put it down. Every free second I was inhaling this story.
Leilah and Connor have a past. One riddled with immense pain and tons of regret. When Leilah calls on him for help, he has to choose between traveling down that broken road with the risk of being torn into all over again or just walking away.
Pace did not disappoint with this book, with her words or with the delicious chemistry that was thick between Lie and Connor. I could not get enough. I loved how the story played out and how we received bits and pieces of their past through out. It’s grittiness pulled me in but it was the raw secrets revealed every so often that kept me intrigued and immersed in the story.
The romance had my heart and the mystery kept me guessing. I could definitely go for more of these characters, as I am not ready to let them go just yet. TRUE GOLD is one book I would absolutely recommend. It is an incredible 5 Star read!
Leilah and Connor have a past. One riddled with immense pain and tons of regret. When Leilah calls on him for help, he has to choose between traveling down that broken road with the risk of being torn into all over again or just walking away.
Pace did not disappoint with this book, with her words or with the delicious chemistry that was thick between Lie and Connor. I could not get enough. I loved how the story played out and how we received bits and pieces of their past through out. It’s grittiness pulled me in but it was the raw secrets revealed every so often that kept me intrigued and immersed in the story.
The romance had my heart and the mystery kept me guessing. I could definitely go for more of these characters, as I am not ready to let them go just yet. TRUE GOLD is one book I would absolutely recommend. It is an incredible 5 Star read!
June 17, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
Childhood sweethearts, both determined and headstrong, and with a past love story full of hurt, Connor and Lilah reunite in "True Gold", by Michelle Pace, a romantic suspense story set in the beautiful landscape of True, Alaska.
Connor is a strong grumpy alpha, his grumpiness all due to the heroine. Despite the (double) first person POV, Connor’s voice is masculine; but his virility or alphaness coexist with an uncontrollable desire for the heroine, and the wild, unexpected, sometimes embarrassing, manifestations of said lust are fun to read.
Connor is a former Green Beret, a wounded hero (with a bum knee, not that wounded), also afflicted by PTSD and nightmares.
I liked the male character until he acted like a jerk and became violent, because of the PTSD.
I liked the heroine, too, not the usual weak female.
I found Boone, with his selective mutism and massive shoulders, a rather intriguing and fascinating character, I hope he gets his own story soon.
Childhood sweethearts, both determined and headstrong, and with a past love story full of hurt, Connor and Lilah reunite in "True Gold", by Michelle Pace, a romantic suspense story set in the beautiful landscape of True, Alaska.
Connor is a strong grumpy alpha, his grumpiness all due to the heroine. Despite the (double) first person POV, Connor’s voice is masculine; but his virility or alphaness coexist with an uncontrollable desire for the heroine, and the wild, unexpected, sometimes embarrassing, manifestations of said lust are fun to read.
Connor is a former Green Beret, a wounded hero (with a bum knee, not that wounded), also afflicted by PTSD and nightmares.
I liked the male character until he acted like a jerk and became violent, because of the PTSD.
I liked the heroine, too, not the usual weak female.
I found Boone, with his selective mutism and massive shoulders, a rather intriguing and fascinating character, I hope he gets his own story soon.
July 9, 2019
True Gold by Michelle Pace
I almost gave up on this book in the beginning. Why? Because I found Connor and Delilah so mean to one another. I realized there had to be a back story but couldn’t understand how the two, with so much anger between them, could ever find a happily ever after. As I read further the flashbacks began to show how the two of them might have ended up feeling and acting as they did and still having mega-chemistry between them. By the end of the book I was rooting for them to end up alive and safe together.
This book, set in Alaska, was a roller coaster ride of emotions, dysfunctional families, relationship problems, poor communication, greed, secrets, a treasure hunt, kidnapping, murder, mayhem and a second chance romance and it kept me reading till the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the ARC � This is my honest review.
4 Stars
I almost gave up on this book in the beginning. Why? Because I found Connor and Delilah so mean to one another. I realized there had to be a back story but couldn’t understand how the two, with so much anger between them, could ever find a happily ever after. As I read further the flashbacks began to show how the two of them might have ended up feeling and acting as they did and still having mega-chemistry between them. By the end of the book I was rooting for them to end up alive and safe together.
This book, set in Alaska, was a roller coaster ride of emotions, dysfunctional families, relationship problems, poor communication, greed, secrets, a treasure hunt, kidnapping, murder, mayhem and a second chance romance and it kept me reading till the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the ARC � This is my honest review.
4 Stars
July 3, 2019
A career ending injury has put an end to Connor’s 10 year career as a Green Beret so he returns to his hometown to be close to his family. He now guides excursions through the remote parts of Alaska which is why Delilah re-enters his life.
When both Delilah’s mom and her plane are missing Delilah knows that something is very wrong. She calls the one man she knows can help her but after the way they hurt each other when they were younger, will he?
This is a second chance at love story that takes you on an adventured filled with suspense and intrigue. If they are going to find Delilah’s mom they will have to work together as a team and that means working through the pain and misunderstandings of their past.
When both Delilah’s mom and her plane are missing Delilah knows that something is very wrong. She calls the one man she knows can help her but after the way they hurt each other when they were younger, will he?
This is a second chance at love story that takes you on an adventured filled with suspense and intrigue. If they are going to find Delilah’s mom they will have to work together as a team and that means working through the pain and misunderstandings of their past.
June 26, 2019
A very fast paced story with alot of twists and turns. Lilah with the help of her ex Conner returns to her hometown after her mom vanishes in her plane but it doesn't end there. They soon learn the reason for her disappearance and the possible trap they have walked into. It was exciting and emotional and had me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
July 1, 2019
The blurb got me with this book...well the location.....Alaska (I love it there!!!)
I loved the mystery that was weaved into the story. The suspense!!!! Another aspect that drew me one was second chance romance. True Gold had everything in book that I gravitate towards.
I can not wait to read more from Ms.Pace.
I loved the mystery that was weaved into the story. The suspense!!!! Another aspect that drew me one was second chance romance. True Gold had everything in book that I gravitate towards.
I can not wait to read more from Ms.Pace.
July 9, 2019
3.5 Stars
Michelle Pace is a first-time author for me. So, going into this book I had no clue what to expect from her writing. I just knew that cover and synopsis was intriguing, and I really wanted to read it.
Overall, I enjoyed True Gold, and would most definitely read another by her. I do have to admit, though, the first quarter to half the read was a rough start. I contemplated DNFing.
Lie and Connor frustrated the hell out of me. Their angsty push/pull and lack of communication drove me insane. Head meet wall. I had to walk away a few times. On top of that, the slow pacing in which the author reveals their past made it hard for me to connect, to either one. I cared more about what happened back in the day and finding out those answers than I did about their current situation and growth. I was losing steam and interest, fast.
Ms. Pace is a favorite of a few readers I trust, which is what kept me pushing through, hoping to find that somethin' somethin' they all really seemed to love.
I’m so glad I did; the second half of the book was where all the magic was at. This was the Michelle Pace I was hoping to go gaga over when I started. This is where Lie and Connor shined. This is where this frustrating as hell couple started to communicate and work through their issues. This is where I grew attached and began to care about their end game. This is where the action started, and the suspense played out. This is where the “true gold� was. This is where I saw exactly what made other readers fall so in love with her work.
Michelle Pace is a first-time author for me. So, going into this book I had no clue what to expect from her writing. I just knew that cover and synopsis was intriguing, and I really wanted to read it.
Overall, I enjoyed True Gold, and would most definitely read another by her. I do have to admit, though, the first quarter to half the read was a rough start. I contemplated DNFing.
Lie and Connor frustrated the hell out of me. Their angsty push/pull and lack of communication drove me insane. Head meet wall. I had to walk away a few times. On top of that, the slow pacing in which the author reveals their past made it hard for me to connect, to either one. I cared more about what happened back in the day and finding out those answers than I did about their current situation and growth. I was losing steam and interest, fast.
Ms. Pace is a favorite of a few readers I trust, which is what kept me pushing through, hoping to find that somethin' somethin' they all really seemed to love.
I’m so glad I did; the second half of the book was where all the magic was at. This was the Michelle Pace I was hoping to go gaga over when I started. This is where Lie and Connor shined. This is where this frustrating as hell couple started to communicate and work through their issues. This is where I grew attached and began to care about their end game. This is where the action started, and the suspense played out. This is where the “true gold� was. This is where I saw exactly what made other readers fall so in love with her work.
July 1, 2019
Absolutly loved it.
Michelle really made it come alive in my mind!
Michelle really made it come alive in my mind!
June 26, 2019
Tortured Romance 3.5*
Delilah (Lilah, Lie) and Connor have a second chance at love when the disappearance of Delilah’s mother in the wilds of Alaska throws them into close proximity. During the search they are forced to communicate with each other and eventually release the poison of their past. The reader is drip fed snippets of their shared past in order, I assume, to rack up tension. Unfortunately for me this torturously slow reveal of their life meant that I didn’t connect or care about the characters because I didn’t understand their motivations or actions. If I hadn’t committed to review this book, I might have given up long before the suspense element of the story kicked in at Chp 20 (80% of the way through). Best thing about this story was the wonderful cover!
Please note strong language is used throughout the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Delilah (Lilah, Lie) and Connor have a second chance at love when the disappearance of Delilah’s mother in the wilds of Alaska throws them into close proximity. During the search they are forced to communicate with each other and eventually release the poison of their past. The reader is drip fed snippets of their shared past in order, I assume, to rack up tension. Unfortunately for me this torturously slow reveal of their life meant that I didn’t connect or care about the characters because I didn’t understand their motivations or actions. If I hadn’t committed to review this book, I might have given up long before the suspense element of the story kicked in at Chp 20 (80% of the way through). Best thing about this story was the wonderful cover!
Please note strong language is used throughout the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 2, 2019
After many years apart Connor and Lilah reunite to find her mom. Tensions are high which means a lot of sarcastic witt and quick comebacks as they find a way to work together. The two are yearning for another chance but something important needs to be done first. Following Pace on Facebook I knew exactly who her muses were and I could see the characters clearly. The fight scenes were detailed and descriptive, and quite realistic. Clues were dropped and carefully placed about some missing gold and her mom. I found myself intrigued from the first chapter, these characters have history and tons of baggage to let out. Only two days to read it because I picked it up whenever I could, fast paced and an attention grabber. I was thrilled to get my request approved for an early copy from Netgalley, this review was voluntarily written.
July 6, 2019
Connor looked at the unmarked beauty of the Kenai peninsula lured Connor home after years abroad. Though his memories of Alaska are mixed and complicated., this land had been in his family for generations. There was no place where Connor would rather live after being hurt and jarringly discharged from the Army ,after ten years, that he had planned on being his career. Neither surgery or months of physical therapy changed the fact he was only eighty percent of his former self, which wasn’t enough for the Special Forces. He was faced with a desk job or discharge. Connoe refused to go from green beret to paper pusher. He found a way to use his unique skills. Leading tourist on hunting and fishing expeditions which paid the bills. And Connor volunteered for Search and Rescue, He just finished a ten day hunt and always scheduled seven days of solitude after an expedition. He didn’t want to answer the phone but his gut told him and his gut was never wrong. Even as a chill ran through Connor. Than Connor realizes Delaila/Lilah/Lie was on the phone. This woke up his temper as well and his dorment libado. It had been a long time since he had heard her voice. Lilah sounded nervous which is rare as she was the cockiest person Connor had ever met. Lilah had been Connors first friend- since they were babies, first kiss, first time, first heartbreak. Lilah had been the only girl Connor had ever loved and their disastrous breakup had whipped Connor’s but ten times worse than his terrible father ever had. Connors mom Claire had been friends with Luann since elementary school. Connor had to move away in fourth grade but they moved back to Fort Richardson when they started Junior High. Than they showed up on their doorstep Claire with a black eye and Connor looking like he had went three rounds with Mike Tyson. At sixteen Connor told he wanted to be more than friends. Than Lilah said “Connor are you there?� . She had a lot of nerve calling him, once upon a time they had been inseraple . Lilah said she needed his help her mother was missing. Lilah’s mom Luann was Connor’s godmother and the only Campbell still had anything to do with him. Than Connor asked what happened? Lilah said she took the plane out to make deliveries four days ago and she never came back. With rare exceptions, very few pilots go missing in the bush and live to talk about it. As much as it pained him to admit Luann was probably dead and they just hadn’t found her yet. She said it took her thirty minutes to get Boone to finally text her Connor’s number. Connor hadn’t heard about Luann and Lilah said her sister Andi had just told her yesterday. Andi was a local. He asked if she could talk to Search and rescue and find out who was in charge and have them give her a call. She asked Conor to guide her and he said no. Lilah said she was going to find her mom and who could he suggest that she hired as a guide within the next seventy two hours the search for Luann would end. Lilah always had mad wilderness skills. Her sense of direction put his to shame. Experienced or not the Alaskian wilderness is no place to wander by yourself. Even well equipped and seasoned, dangers are plentiful. There were few guides Connor trusted and the final frontier can turn deadly in an instant. When a woman looked like Delialah�.. Delilah’s ex husband Josh used to say she had an overdeveloped sense of adventure. She had never put much stock in peoples opinions and being an oddity never bothered her much. Luann was a commercial supply pilot., delivering groceries and other necessities to people who live far enough out that driving or boating into town isn't a practical option. Luann had a reputation for always making the right call, and she always always finds her way home. Until now. Lilah hadn’t slept much since receiving a strange phone call for her mother from her mother on the morning she was reported missing. Whereever she’d been whens she;d called Lilah she had very poor reception and she had only managed to catch a few words� Li found -Aurora - your father� than Lilah said “Mom� than her mom said � low - don’t - home� Than � I - Connor�. Than her mom said “Don’t trust anyone�, that one sentence was clear. But her mom was slurring her words and she would have never expected that from her dad yes but not her mom. There was something more though beyond that she sounded off�. Afraid maybe. The call dropped then, Lilah tried calling Luann back several times but no answer than she got busy and put it aside. Two nights later her younger sister Andi called with the news and said check her email before hanging up. Lilah went to her laptop and saw an email from Boone, her unofficial brother back home, who worked for Search and Rescue. The email contained a bunch of links to news stories about her mom and her missing plane. With or without Connor, she’d be searching for her in some pretty remote areas. Some places she'll be traveling have no roads at all. Connor tried to call her back but Lilah didn’t answer. Connor knew he had no choice but to help Lilah find Luann.
I enjoyed this book. I loved the suspense, danger, and action. I didn’t want to put this down. This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and kept it until the very end. Delilah and Connor had hot chemistry. This story had me guessing a lot. I loved the double point of view. It did seem like Delilah and Connor just pushed their joint past away. Although bits and pieces did come out throughout the book. I loved the pace and plot. I loved that Luann hadn’t turned her back on Connor no matter what. I loved the characters and the twists and turns of this book and I recommend it. I wish I could rate this 4.5 .
I enjoyed this book. I loved the suspense, danger, and action. I didn’t want to put this down. This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and kept it until the very end. Delilah and Connor had hot chemistry. This story had me guessing a lot. I loved the double point of view. It did seem like Delilah and Connor just pushed their joint past away. Although bits and pieces did come out throughout the book. I loved the pace and plot. I loved that Luann hadn’t turned her back on Connor no matter what. I loved the characters and the twists and turns of this book and I recommend it. I wish I could rate this 4.5 .
Read
June 22, 2019Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic.
March 23, 2021
Reread: March 2021
First read: 2019
🥰 Loved it!
First read: 2019
🥰 Loved it!
June 27, 2019
This book lives up to its title; it is True Gold. I was immediately intrigued when I read the blurb for this book. I read a lot of romantic suspense but I have never read one set in the wilds of Alaska. After the blurb I saw the amazing cover and was blown away. I could not start this book soon enough. This book is the kind of book I could sit and read in one sitting, if real life didn't get in the way. Which sadly it did, but I do not regret finishing the book in the wee morning hours on a workday.
Michelle Pace has woven an intricate tale of loss, pain, lost love, mystery, greed, and passion into a beautiful tapestry of words. The storyline is complex and exacting and Connor and Delilah's backstory is painful and pulls on the reader's heartstrings. I'm glad the author did not info bomb the reader with their past history and meted it out over time, otherwise I'd have been a crying mess.
As high school sweethearts, they were "the" couple, finding lost treasure and collecting a big reward. However, since then the couple has not had an easy go of things, together or apart. Both characters are strong and bullheaded but broken by their pasts on multiple levels. Your first love is not supposed to be your forever love, but for Connor and Delilah their time apart did nothing to diffuse their deep-rooted passion, even though they have hurt each other repeatedly in the past, and swore they hated each other. But when Delilah needed help because her mother was missing, ex-Green Beret turned wilderness guide, Connor, has to choose whether he wants to shred his heart again and help her or walk away. Luckily, he decides to help and what follows in a well-paced story with well-developed characters who pull the reader into the story and through all the twists and turns as they solve the mystery of all the things missing in True Alaska.
This is definitely a 5+star read and I look forward to more from this author. #netgalley #truegold
Michelle Pace has woven an intricate tale of loss, pain, lost love, mystery, greed, and passion into a beautiful tapestry of words. The storyline is complex and exacting and Connor and Delilah's backstory is painful and pulls on the reader's heartstrings. I'm glad the author did not info bomb the reader with their past history and meted it out over time, otherwise I'd have been a crying mess.
As high school sweethearts, they were "the" couple, finding lost treasure and collecting a big reward. However, since then the couple has not had an easy go of things, together or apart. Both characters are strong and bullheaded but broken by their pasts on multiple levels. Your first love is not supposed to be your forever love, but for Connor and Delilah their time apart did nothing to diffuse their deep-rooted passion, even though they have hurt each other repeatedly in the past, and swore they hated each other. But when Delilah needed help because her mother was missing, ex-Green Beret turned wilderness guide, Connor, has to choose whether he wants to shred his heart again and help her or walk away. Luckily, he decides to help and what follows in a well-paced story with well-developed characters who pull the reader into the story and through all the twists and turns as they solve the mystery of all the things missing in True Alaska.
This is definitely a 5+star read and I look forward to more from this author. #netgalley #truegold
June 20, 2019
Connor is a former Green Beret soldier who was injured in the line of duty. Since he can no longer perform up to the standards of the Green Beret’s, he was given a choice; either leave the military or take a desk job. Knowing that he could never be a paper pusher, he chose to leave. As soon as he makes that gut-wrenching decision, he get’s a call. His mother’s cancers back and this time she’s not going to fight it. He heads back to True, Alaska, his hometown to spend her last days with her.
Now he spends his time taking people out into the wilderness as a guide. He doesn’t like it very much, but it’s a job, one he’s very good at.
Then one day he picks up the phone and hears the one voice he never hoped to hear from again. Delilah, the girl he loved. The one he grew up with. His first love. The one who broke his heart. She’s currently heading back to True, because her mom and her plane’s gone missing. There’s a search party out there looking for her, but Lie would rather be looking for her herself and needs help. She really doesn’t want to see Connor, Connor broke her heart just as much as she broke his. But she’s desperate, she needs to find her mom as soon as possible. It’s a race against time and she needs the best.
The book starts out a little slow, that’s the reason I gave it four stars. It does pick up, and by the middle, you’re invested and needing to know what’s happening, who’s actually involved, and trying to figure out who the bad guys really are, the one’s behind it all. There’s good character development and world building, a wonderful storyline. Like I said, my only issue was the book starts off a little slow.
*I received an ARC of this story from Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review
Now he spends his time taking people out into the wilderness as a guide. He doesn’t like it very much, but it’s a job, one he’s very good at.
Then one day he picks up the phone and hears the one voice he never hoped to hear from again. Delilah, the girl he loved. The one he grew up with. His first love. The one who broke his heart. She’s currently heading back to True, because her mom and her plane’s gone missing. There’s a search party out there looking for her, but Lie would rather be looking for her herself and needs help. She really doesn’t want to see Connor, Connor broke her heart just as much as she broke his. But she’s desperate, she needs to find her mom as soon as possible. It’s a race against time and she needs the best.
The book starts out a little slow, that’s the reason I gave it four stars. It does pick up, and by the middle, you’re invested and needing to know what’s happening, who’s actually involved, and trying to figure out who the bad guys really are, the one’s behind it all. There’s good character development and world building, a wonderful storyline. Like I said, my only issue was the book starts off a little slow.
*I received an ARC of this story from Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review
July 3, 2019
Connor and Delilah, aka Lie, have known each other for most of their lives, and were each other's first everything. However, their relationship blew up, and now they can't stand to be in the same room as each other. So when Lie calls Connor out of the blue, he's a total douchebag to her, even when she's asking for his help because her mother has gone missing, and her mother is his godmother. He even refuses at first, so I'm not a fan of his at first. He ends up pulling up his big girl panties, and shows up to help her, and this is when the story picks up as they try to figure out what the hell happened. Of course, he's still a big baby, throwing as many insults as possible, so still not a huge fan of his, in fact, I really wish that Lie would just set him on fire to be honest. And yes, I know, she gets her own digs in, but she was more controlled to me. When there's something revealed that he did to go out of his way to hurt her, I didn't want them to end up together at all because he really crossed a line that you can't come back from in my mind, but what do I know. Anyway, the twists are around every corner, as I can't figure out what is going, so I'm just dropping f-bombs as I go along. The cast of secondaries are as colorful & wild as the landscape, so I'm suspicious of many. So what really happened to Lie's mother?! And will Lie & Connor mend their past for a chance at a better future?! For answers to these questions, you know what to do, one click this baby! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 3, 2019
True Gold is the first book I remember having read by Michelle Pace. I was exciting to receive a copy through NetGalley but the book was not exactly as I imagined it being. It is romantic suspense with characters who have know each other nearly their entire lives. The past years they have been out of touch and yes, this was intentional on both their parts.
A missing mother brings Lilah and Connor back together to find her and then to find the last missing gold. The story is mysterious and suspenseful as the hunt begins. It is a well-developed plot with clues to think on as the story progresses. The setting in the Alaskan summer is a vivid backdrop to the story.
It is the characters that just didn’t make my lists of favorites with True Gold. Connor and Lilah have such massive chips on their shoulders that it was difficult for me to like either one. While they have regrets about how they parted and who said what at the end, neither seemed to have a true perspective on it. Instead they had spent many years blaming each other, claiming that they had moved on, only to keep rehashing it all in the mind all these years. Snarky dialogue makes way for sarcastic dialogue to lustful dialogue. They never moved on but are still stuck in a high schoolish mindset. Please let the grown-up show up.
3.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A missing mother brings Lilah and Connor back together to find her and then to find the last missing gold. The story is mysterious and suspenseful as the hunt begins. It is a well-developed plot with clues to think on as the story progresses. The setting in the Alaskan summer is a vivid backdrop to the story.
It is the characters that just didn’t make my lists of favorites with True Gold. Connor and Lilah have such massive chips on their shoulders that it was difficult for me to like either one. While they have regrets about how they parted and who said what at the end, neither seemed to have a true perspective on it. Instead they had spent many years blaming each other, claiming that they had moved on, only to keep rehashing it all in the mind all these years. Snarky dialogue makes way for sarcastic dialogue to lustful dialogue. They never moved on but are still stuck in a high schoolish mindset. Please let the grown-up show up.
3.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 27, 2019
This book had nail-biting intensity. I didn’t know who to trust.
It all started with the hijacking of a plane carrying ten pallets of gold bars for Aurora Corporation and the gold getting dropped in various locations throughout the Alaskan wilderness.
Many years ago, Delilah and Conner were teenagers and in love. They gained fame when they discovered the ninth drop location. There are still people with gold fever looking for the last of the treasure. Now, Delilah’s mother, Luann, has gone missing. Not knowing if she is dead or alive, Delilah and Conner are on a mission to find LuAnn before it’s too late. Delilah and Conner find themselves in some serious jeopardy and the threat for their lives also brings them closer together again.
I sat on the edge of my seat reading this book. I had a hard time putting it down or finding a place to stop reading. I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense part, but I also kept hoping Delilah and Conner would find a way to get back together. They split on bad terms and through a lot of the book, they don’t get along very well, but they knew they needed each other to complete their mission. In the story, LuAnn said not to trust anyone. That statement was very true. I had no idea who was good or bad in this book until the very end. I definitely recommend this exciting book.
It all started with the hijacking of a plane carrying ten pallets of gold bars for Aurora Corporation and the gold getting dropped in various locations throughout the Alaskan wilderness.
Many years ago, Delilah and Conner were teenagers and in love. They gained fame when they discovered the ninth drop location. There are still people with gold fever looking for the last of the treasure. Now, Delilah’s mother, Luann, has gone missing. Not knowing if she is dead or alive, Delilah and Conner are on a mission to find LuAnn before it’s too late. Delilah and Conner find themselves in some serious jeopardy and the threat for their lives also brings them closer together again.
I sat on the edge of my seat reading this book. I had a hard time putting it down or finding a place to stop reading. I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense part, but I also kept hoping Delilah and Conner would find a way to get back together. They split on bad terms and through a lot of the book, they don’t get along very well, but they knew they needed each other to complete their mission. In the story, LuAnn said not to trust anyone. That statement was very true. I had no idea who was good or bad in this book until the very end. I definitely recommend this exciting book.
July 5, 2019
This book was the first book I’ve read by this author. I will be reading more books by her for sure!! Suspense and mysteries make me so happy. I was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. The emotions, feelings and all around story line are gut wrenching and full of life. The author does an amazing job with the characters, keeping them separated but they are all part of this amazing story that will leave an impact on your reading history! I couldn’t turn the pages of this book fast enough - and the disappointment I felt when I reached the end - plus added book hangover - this is one amazingly written, suspenseful, twisted and steamy book that you will love and adore. Pace has proven to me she will be a one click author in the future on anything she writes!! Click today! You’ll love this book!!
Connor and Lilah have a past. She had to call him to help her on an important task. Connor doesn’t want to, but he does reluctantly. Their story is one that turns into a suspenseful tale of a situation where time is ticking and they have to find an important person in Lilah’s life. It’s a story that brings these 2 characters closer together and makes you swoon.
I cannot day enough great things about this book. Everyone she read this book!!
Connor and Lilah have a past. She had to call him to help her on an important task. Connor doesn’t want to, but he does reluctantly. Their story is one that turns into a suspenseful tale of a situation where time is ticking and they have to find an important person in Lilah’s life. It’s a story that brings these 2 characters closer together and makes you swoon.
I cannot day enough great things about this book. Everyone she read this book!!
June 26, 2019
There is nothing like discovering a new to me author. The mystery, suspense, and unique storytelling always reels me in making me excited to meet the characters in the author’s imagination. Michelle Pace did not disappoint with her two childhood sweethearts Connor and Lilah in her newest release, True Gold.
Set in the Alaskan frontier, war veteran Connor steps up when his childhood sweetheart, Lilah calls asking him to help. Despite the pain of their love story, both Connor and Lilah are determined and headstrong throughout this romantic suspense story. Pace gave readers not only a wonderful suspense, but really brought the sizzle and chemistry between her characters. Riddled with pieces of their past, Pace gave just enough history to make you connect to their love story while keeping it interesting with present day action filled suspense all the while keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Michelle Pace definitely is a read worthy author deserving of your one click. This novel alone sets the tone for her abilities and makes me excited for what else I can find by this author.
Set in the Alaskan frontier, war veteran Connor steps up when his childhood sweetheart, Lilah calls asking him to help. Despite the pain of their love story, both Connor and Lilah are determined and headstrong throughout this romantic suspense story. Pace gave readers not only a wonderful suspense, but really brought the sizzle and chemistry between her characters. Riddled with pieces of their past, Pace gave just enough history to make you connect to their love story while keeping it interesting with present day action filled suspense all the while keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Michelle Pace definitely is a read worthy author deserving of your one click. This novel alone sets the tone for her abilities and makes me excited for what else I can find by this author.
July 2, 2019
When one of your favorite book buddies tells you to read something you do it. Case and point, my first title from Michelle Pace. I was intrigued by the plot and the fact that it covered a lot of bases that you don't really see in romance.
Alaska. Treasure hunters, a missing person and a second-chance romance. This book had it all. I was hooked from the first page. The intensity and twists kept piling on and it only added to the story. To the urgency for Lie and Connor to work through their past pain and secrets and half truths so they could work together to find her mom. I loved that this adventure could've pushed Connor and Lie further apart but it didn't. It forced them to face their own feelings and move forward with honesty.
Holy double crossing, unexpected, jaw on the floor ending. My heart was pounding as the final showdown played out. Though, I will say that things got a hair muddled as everything was revealed. For me, there were just too many players involved in everything. But other than that detail, Michelle Pace nailed it. True Gold was a suspenseful and dangerously sexy adventure.
Alaska. Treasure hunters, a missing person and a second-chance romance. This book had it all. I was hooked from the first page. The intensity and twists kept piling on and it only added to the story. To the urgency for Lie and Connor to work through their past pain and secrets and half truths so they could work together to find her mom. I loved that this adventure could've pushed Connor and Lie further apart but it didn't. It forced them to face their own feelings and move forward with honesty.
Holy double crossing, unexpected, jaw on the floor ending. My heart was pounding as the final showdown played out. Though, I will say that things got a hair muddled as everything was revealed. For me, there were just too many players involved in everything. But other than that detail, Michelle Pace nailed it. True Gold was a suspenseful and dangerously sexy adventure.
July 2, 2019
This book is gritty and raw and full of substance. It took me just a little bit to get into the groove of it since this is the first time reading Michelle Pace, but once I did I could not get enough. I loved in her bio that she wants more than just the fairy tale romance and you can definitely see that in this book.
Lilah and Connor were HS sweethearts that did not end well at all. They both made mistakes, but Connor especially is not exactly good with his feelings. There were a few times that his brutish ways actually were a bit too much for me because of how angry he was. Other than that there were times he was like a little puppy that just wanted to help but didn't know how to.
All in all this book is definitely captivating. I don't know if I am 100% with these two characters being together, but there is so much freaking love between the two of them. I enjoyed this and I would not mind checking out a book about the silent Boone. I love strong silent types! ;)
PS: Thank you to the author and publisher and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for offering me an ARC in return for my honest review!
Lilah and Connor were HS sweethearts that did not end well at all. They both made mistakes, but Connor especially is not exactly good with his feelings. There were a few times that his brutish ways actually were a bit too much for me because of how angry he was. Other than that there were times he was like a little puppy that just wanted to help but didn't know how to.
All in all this book is definitely captivating. I don't know if I am 100% with these two characters being together, but there is so much freaking love between the two of them. I enjoyed this and I would not mind checking out a book about the silent Boone. I love strong silent types! ;)
PS: Thank you to the author and publisher and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for offering me an ARC in return for my honest review!
July 4, 2019
This is not the first book I have read by Michelle Pace and it certainly won’t be the last. I have anticipated this book since I first read the blurb and I was not disappointed. Michelle has a way with words that suck you in with her descriptions, characters, main and secondary, and her story telling. I never once wanted to skip ahead and skim to get to a more interesting part of the story. The story was original and kept me guessing throughout.
If you are looking for a love story that is not cheesy or sappy and is realistic, this is it. If you love second chances, this is it. If you are looking for mystery/intrigue/suspense that keeps you guessing, this is it. I thought I had it figured out, but then I was thrown.
The main characters, Connor and Lilah, were strong, relatable and have amazing chemistry. They grew up together, became lovers and for various reasons ended up going their separate ways. Years later, they find themselves back in each other’s lives when Lilah calls Connor for his help after her mother turns up missing. Far from predictable, True Gold will keep your full attention and will stay with you after the final word of “The End.�
If you are looking for a love story that is not cheesy or sappy and is realistic, this is it. If you love second chances, this is it. If you are looking for mystery/intrigue/suspense that keeps you guessing, this is it. I thought I had it figured out, but then I was thrown.
The main characters, Connor and Lilah, were strong, relatable and have amazing chemistry. They grew up together, became lovers and for various reasons ended up going their separate ways. Years later, they find themselves back in each other’s lives when Lilah calls Connor for his help after her mother turns up missing. Far from predictable, True Gold will keep your full attention and will stay with you after the final word of “The End.�
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