If you follow my review, you probably know that Catherine Bybee is one of my all time favorite authors and I read her books religiously. So when I found out that there would be a spin off of my favorite series, Weekday Brides, I was super excited. And I wasn't disappointed. The first two books in the series more than passed the high standards I have for Catherine Bybee's books but this third book in the series is on a completely different level. It was emotional, a little bit heartbreaking, definitely romantic and super sexy. But in a way, it also felt cathartic.

Though there wasn't that much suspense in the story, the plot line was still fast paced and intriguing. I literally couldn't put the book down. Both Avery and Liam are intriguing characters. Even though I wasn't a total Avery fan from the previous books in the series, she totally won me over. Living through the emotional and physical repercussions of her attack, definitely changed her but they also affected her ability to trust and depend on people. And though she would do anything for her friends, her past and recent trauma, made her even more closed off. But with his persistence and tender heart Liam manages to weave his way behind Avery's walls and when she needs him to stand beside her when she confronts her emotional scars from the attack, he is right beside her and gives her the strength she needs to forget, to move on, to forgive.

For me, this is the best book in this spin-off series so far. It is just so emotional that there is no chance it won't touch your heart. Avery and Liam are just perfect for each other their story definitely deserves to be read. So don't waste any time and pick up your copy asap. As this is a standalone, you don't need to read the previous books in the series, but if you decide to do it, that will just enhance your experience. I can guarantee you won't regret it. As for me, I can't wait to get my hands on Shannon's story :)

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Honestly, Avery made me want to scream through most of this book. While she seemed like a strong, independent woman on the outside, inside she was a mess of emotions, contradictions and pain. I think that inner turmoil is why I didn't give up on her. But frankly, it was hard...especially after she met Liam, who's a freaking dreamboat and way too good for Avery, since I'm already being brutally honest. After she went trolling in bars, just because that's what she does and nothing's gonna change that ( her attitude, not a reflection of my thoughts).I wanted Liam to run far and fast in the other direction.
Having read book two in the First Wived Club series, I knew the demons she was wrestling with, which made me keep reading. Without that background, a new reader to the series might be confused, so if you're jumping in here at book three, be forewarned. If you have been following along, we see the other members of the club and their guys, but I think there was less face-time than in book two. I am anxious to red Shannon's book next, because I think her talks with Avery gave me more insight into her, also.
And then their was the suspense. That came out of nowhere for me, but I liked that part the best (except for crazy hot Liam). The outcome also surprised me, which is hard to do...I think I should have been a PI!!
All in all, I liked Chasing Shadows and recommend it. While not my favorite series by Bybee, I always appreciate her writing style and depth of characters. Judging from other reviews, others do, too

This is the third book in the First Wives Club series. It is a complete standalone. Each book is about a different couple, but characters do cross over. I love this series and this was a great addition to it. Avery’s journey is definitely an interesting one. In one of the previous books she was violently attacked. In this book we really get to see her journey in reclaiming her strength both physically and emotionally. I felt her struggles in this book. Oh my Liam! He deserves all the swoons! He was perfect in helping Avery in her journey. He smashed every wall Avery tried to put up. He just didn’t give up and I love that! In this series there is a mystery/adventure element to it. This story is fast paced. I found myself not wanting to put it down. This series and this book is definitely worth checking out.

Loved this book, Avery is one tough female but still is fighting her demons from an attack a year ago. She is trying to move forward in her life by taking a martial arts class where she meets Liam. Oh, how I love Liam!! Avery has now decided to close the book on her past but she needs to find her attacker. Even if it means she has to return to where the attack took place, and she wouldn't give up until he is found.

This is a book that I could not put down. Avery is a strong female, she is a warrior. I was so relieved when she realized what she has with Liam. Their chemistry is off the charts. My true love though, is Liam. Loved, loved him!! A wonderful brother/uncle to his single sister and his niece ( just adorable). Loved how he didn't give up on Avery.

I highly recommend this book along with the rest of the First Wives stories!

Catherine Bybee is one of my favorite authors and continues to prove why with Chasing Shadows, the third installment in the First Wives series. She always sucks me in with her stories of romance with a touch of suspense.

Avery Grant was left for dead after a brutal attack. While she's physically healed from the encounter, she's not quite there emotionally. She made a promise to not be a 'victim' again so she starts taking Krav Maga classes.

After meeting Avery for the first time, Liam Holt is intrigued. After a little sleuthing, he notices the name of the studio where Avery takes her classes. The contractor thinks the studio could probably use some work.

Soon Avery and Liam are spendine time together, both in the studio and out. Despite forming a bond, Avery continues to deal with the aftereffects of her attack. Liam proves that she can rely on him. Everything that Avery thought she was beginning to be put behind her is brought to the forefront when she finds herself in danger again. Will the revelations about the man who attacked at her put herself, the other First Wives club member and Liam in jeopardy?

Bybee continues to showcase strong female characters that stand up for themselves and fight when needed. Like the previous stories, this one sucked me in from the first page! A great addition to the series!
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I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Montlake Romance for my unbiased opinion of the book. I really loved this book. This new installment in the series centers around Avery Grant after the horrible attack at the end of the last book. Instead of spending her days shopping the day away she is getting on with her life with a successful business and getting her courage to be able to defend herself if she is ever attacked again. While keeping a low profile she keeps running into Liam and the sparks fly. While both are dealing with demons, they manage to fall for each other. When Avery is hot on the trail of her attacker things heat up and she shuts everyone out. Can Liam crack the wall Avery has built around herself to protect her and the FWC. You won't be able to put this book down, I read it in a day! Catherine keeps up the great writing. I can't wait for the next book!

Loving this series of empowering women.
This is Avery's story of survival. A traumatic experiences leaves her leaves her searching for answers but danger looms.
Having been married for mutual benefits. Falling in love is not an option until Liam.......
Engaging story of facing fears where you the reader holds on and enjoys a intriguing ride.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

I happened to stumble on this series not too long ago so when I saw this book was available for review I crossed my fingers I was approved to review.  This series y'all...these women!  So each of them have been married once before. This is how they met. During the First Wives series each of the four women have their own book detailing their HEA.  

Chasing Shadows features Avery.  She's everyone's cheerleader but doesn't allow them to cheer for her. This book details her overcoming her fears, finding answers, and falling in love for the very first time. At some points in this book you're going to want to shake Avery into getting her head on straight, or at least I did.  I rooted for Liam the whole book.  Hoping he'd be able to break through her defenses and get her to open her eyes as to what was right in front of her. 

I enjoyed this book.  There's something to say about a woman fighting to find herself after a traumatic event and come out on top.  In the meantime finding her "Prince Charming" and being able to fall in love with him. I hope you like this story as much as I did.  I found the book to be captivating and wanted the best for each of these two characters.

A story of love and passion but more importantly of a woman’s survival. Loved this book - not just because of the love story but more so because of the strong women. I can’t wait to catch up on this series.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book to leave an honest review. I have read the first two books in the First Wives series and the third one definitely did not disappoint. I would highly recommend this book and the entire series. Bybee has a great writing style and does an excellent job with the suspense and romance.

This book follows Avery, a former socialite wife turned estate sale guru, and Liam, a builder/contractor. Avery was injured in a serious attack while in New York a year before and cannot remember the details of it. Even though her attacker is dead, Avery is still suffering from the traumatic effects of her attack; she now takes Krav Maga to learn how to protect herself in order to feel safe. Liam first sees Avery while at a bar where she ends up using her new skills to fend off unwanted advances from some bar patrons. He spots her gym back so in order to meet her, he offers up his contractor services to the gym and ends up meeting her. Even though Avery is very anti relationships, Liam just keeps after to her until she doesn't even realize that she is in one. All is well in their world one would think...until Avery starts to remember details from her attack and things aren't what they seem. Avery decides to go back to New York to get answers without telling Liam or her best friends. She seems to be on a quest for vengeance and will accept no help.

With new light shed on her case, can Avery learn to put the past behind her? Will she be able to let Liam (and her friends) help her through this difficult time? Will Liam be willing to overcome Avery's omissions and aversion to relationships?

This is a fun and fast read. I love the suspense that is thrown into the book but also the touch of romance. The books is funny but also heartfelt. I would definitely recommend this book.

Chasing Shadows is the third book in the First Wives series by the fabulous Catherine Bybee. I’m loving this series about these strong, funny, loyal women and the men who fall for them. We've met Avery before. The blonde pitbull has been through a lot in her life. Not the happiest of childhoods, a fake marriage and then being attacked. She's lost some of her light but she's trying to get her life back. She's learning krav to defend herself and when using those skills catches the eye of Liam her life is about to change. Liam is instantly attracted to Avery and he swindles his way into her krav classes and into her life. Avery isn't looking for a man or love. Definitely not anything permanent. And she really doesn't like Liam. He's big, built, handsome and funny. Wait, why doesn't she like him? Oh yeah, he's pushy. But he's determined to change her mind. He's going to help her even if he gets his butt kicked. He's also going to show her there are good men who want more. And he wants much more. All of a sudden they are dating! Avery is in denial, but her attraction to Liam is off the charts. When she gets news about her attacker, she runs alone to try to find out what really happened. Turns out she doesn't really want to be alone and when Liam shows up to be with her, her life feels safe again. She didn't see him coming, but she's not letting go now. I loved this story! I wasn't sure about Avery is the previous books. She was a little harsh and mouthy, but now that we get to see into her life, I understand more about her. And Liam. Wow. I love everything about him. His handsome and sexy, but he's also a loving brother and uncle and son. He values family and he's loyal. He's a go with the flow type of guy who works with his hands and is successful. I loved watching him meet the other women and his reaction to their status, wealth and partners. Overall, I laughed, teared up, swooned and enjoyed the ride. I can't wait for Shannon's story!

I stand by my earlier assessment that this First Wives series is an edgier, grittier Catherine Bybee, far removed from her Not Quite series (which I thoroughly enjoyed). But as I said previously...different isn’t bad. It’s just different. And now that I know what to expect from these books, I can go in with my expectations managed!

But that’s not to say I'm not enjoying this series as well. It’s just taken me some adjusting to these First Wives who are jaded, cynical, and in the case of Avery Grant, totally kick-ass.

Before I start, this series really shouldn’t be read out of order. We met all three former first wives and their ring leader/lawyer in the first book, Fool Me Once, and the second book Half Empty sets up the story for this third book. A brief synopsis about what happened to Avery in the second book is given at the beginning of Chasing Shadows, but it is REALLY brief. If you’re going to appreciate this story and these books, I encourage you to read them all!

Back to Chasing Shadows…

This is Avery’s story. Her stint as a first wife was truly a marriage in name only. She walked away with millions of dollars and absolutely zero hard feelings. That’s not to say she is without some baggage from childhood, but what she’s really dealing with is the brutal assault she survived during book two. One year later, her body has healed, but mentally she’s still struggling, and so she’s taken up krav maga to make sure she’s able to defend herself.

When Liam sees Avery for the first time at a bar, he’s immediately interested in her and takes some mildly stalkerish actions to get to know her after a coincidental second meeting. Avery is a little standoffish at first, so Liam pursues her gently but persistently. And when Avery pushes and doesn’t let Liam in, he isn’t deterred.

Even though this series isn’t as light as what a reader is used to from this author, what hasn’t changed are the heroes, and how the stories play out. The heroes in these books are plenty manly, but they aren’t this obnoxious alpha-male character who barks directives at the woman in peril. They are confident, but not cocky. They are kind and sincere, and let the woman be who she is. The hero and heroine behave like adults and deal with their conflicts in rational, mature ways. And I LOVE IT. The plots are compelling and engaging, but have a simplicity to them that is completely appealing to me. There’s no unnecessary drama from other people or ridiculous situations. Just a good, solid story that is entertaining from page one, all the way until the end.

Ms. Bybee is one of my favorite authors (confession: I actually squealed when I got the email saying I'd been approved for this ARC!). Her writing is excellent, her dialogue fantastic, and the characters extremely likeable. I know when I sit down with one of her books I won’t be disappointed, and I am SO hoping there is a final book in this series for the last of the first wives!

* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake Romance and Catherine Bybee for an ARC ebook copy to review. As always, an honest review from me.

Chasing Shadows centers around Avery Grant, who we see as a tough woman who knows what she wants. As the book goes on and we learn more about her character, we also learn more about the reasons behind this. Why she’s taking martial arts classes to ward off an attacker, is determined to be successful at her job despite not needing the money, and why she only has a few close friends. I really liked the main character, even when I wanted her to be a bit more emotionally open with her new love interest. I also liked that the book featured many other strong women that help her on her journey through life. The romance felt authentic and was sufficiently sexy.

I didn’t see the twist at the end coming. And I’m not sure how I feel about it still. I don’t hate it, but I think certain people got away with their bad behavior too easily.

Chasing Shadows is a more substantial read that I initially thought and that’s exactly the way I like my contemporary romance novels. Worth the read!

I really enjoyed this book. Avery had been brutally attacked and was learning a marshal arts to be able to fight her own battles. She met Liam and he tried to get closer to her. It was a wonderful story about not giving up after a traumatic event. The trials she went through, what she learned from it and the ending were perfect. Couldn't ask for more. Great story. The First Wives club was a hoot. Loved them.

So enjoyed this one!!
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I had read another book that was similar in theory to the First Wives Club and I thought it was the same author and the continuation of that series. However, this is a different series than the one I was thinking of and it turned out to be a great choice.

I love how some authors just make you feel at home with their book. You’re not trying to figure out what’s going on. You’re just enjoying the story. And that’s what happened with this book.

The characters were great. The First Wives friends are an awesome group of women that are completely supportive of everyone. And I absolutely love Liam. He was so kind and sweet; understanding and sexy as hell.

The story is a little different than what I expected with a woman who is recovering from violent act. I love that she has taken control and knows what she wants. Plus, the bit of mystery and suspense was fabulous addition too.

Overall story is wonderful and definitely one series that I would love to continue to read.

Another incredible story in Catherine Bybee's First Wives series! I'm a huge fan of Ms. Bybee and this book is a perfect example of why. Her characters are flawed, believable, and feel like our friends. She crafts stories that pull you in right from the start and hold you captivated. This book is all that and more. Liam and Avery have chemistry that sizzles the pages but Avery's past has her fighting the attraction. Liam won't give up on her though. He knows Avery is worth the fight. Their story is one you don't want to miss. Put it on the must read list. I highly recommend it.

Catherine Bybee is one of the top authors of writing romantic comedies. What I love about this story is how Liam acclimates into the crazy First Wives Club world. He realizes quickly that he is a fish out of water and rolls with it with a poise that would not be expected from many. I just loved how normal he was, living with his sister and interacting with his niece. He isn't a rock star, or a private detective, or a millionaire, and I loved seeing how that kind of character fit into this world. I also thought Bybee did a great job showing how the events of the previous books impacted Avery. I am loving this series so much and I also love that each book is stand-alone where I'm not held in suspense until the next one comes out, but at the same time build in a way I wouldn't suggest jumping in partway through.

I typically don’t like jumping into a series part way through.... Chasing Shadows was worth it!

While it was obvious that I was missing some back story, Avery and Liam made up for it in this entertaining installment of the First Wives Club.

Ms Bybee does an excellent job of weaving details into the story so that we understand Avery’s demons and challenges as she rebuilds her life post trauma.

I liked Liam and the effort he put into pursuing Avery and his instinctual understanding of her limitations. It was a pleasure to see her bloom under his care and compassion.

A core group of secondary characters helps round everything out as well as fill in some blanks. This makes me want to go back and read the first two books in the series.

I didn't think this series could get any better after the last one but I was wrong, this one tops the last. Avery is definitely a warrior, not just a survivor! Oh, and Liam. When we get the first glimpse of him in Pugs Bar, I thought he was going to be a problem but oh, he is so much more, he is her redemption, just what she needed at this point in her life. The First Wives come together for Trina's wedding and, much to Avery's chagrin, Liam is invited into the fold and exposed to group and what it will take to be in Avery's life. Chasing Shadows is perfectly told so we are brought along with Avery as she recovers from the devastating attack and now nearly a year later what after learning to fight and survive and now her memories are coming back and with this she takes her fate into her hands and disappears to New York City to find her attacker herself. Will Liam let her go or will he rally the troops when he finally discovers she has disappeared? Oh, this was so good and I couldn't put it down. This one could be read as a standalone, as all in this series, but why would you want to do that!

I definitely recommend this one!

**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**

At only 32% into, I realized Avery, the heroine, and I were just not going to hit it off, folks. Sure, all things were pretty good at first, until she decides to ditch Liam’s genuine, gentlemanly offer of a real date and instead trolls bars alone, with no cell phone, buzzed drunk looking for a meaningless one night stand. Yeah, she’s chasing shots and letting random men hit on her all to prove a point to herself. What logical, rational point, you ask? Well, in my opinion, there wasn’t one. Other than it makes her look plain careless and stupid. You see, this behavior appears to be routine for her, a woman supposedly afraid of being attacked and having her face kicked in by a complete stranger again. It makes no sense she’d put herself in potential harm’s way like this after what she survived.

From that point on, she lost my respect. Were we honestly supposed to breathe a sigh of relief no men that particular night measured up to her standards? What if a guy had? Were we supposed to sit back and read about it, knowing Liam truly liked her. I felt she tainted her budding relationship with him even before their first date. Talk about a romance buzz kill.

In the blink of an eye, it caused Avery’s character portrayal setup not to match her actions. Besides, this type of behavior doesn’t look good on any main couple character, male or female.

This is quite a shame since I liked Avery’s determination and grit in not just learning but mastering self defense. But Liam deserves better, IMHO, and I sure hope he finds it.

Btw, the way Liam set up meeting Avery was rather far fetched, too.

Overall, the storyline and writing itself just wasn’t turning out like I had hoped. I do recommend this author’s The Weekday Brides series though. Those books were great.

Title: Chasing Shadows, Series: First Wives Club (Book 3), Author: Catherine Bybee, Pages: 316, stand-alone but part of a series, didn’t want to finish, knucklehead heroine.

Book 1 - Fool Me Once
Book 2 - Half Empty
Book 3 - Chasing Shadows

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)