Kelly was shocked when her Caucasian Ovcharka Xena bonded with Rick Latrobe. The dogs are known for linking with only their owners. She's even more shocked at the intense sexual heat that sizzles between her and Rick. When she tumbles into bed with him at the very first opportunity, experiencing a night of erotic bliss in his arms, she knows they have something special.
But Xena is very much aware when an attempt is made on Rick's life, and the dog drives Kelly crazy with signals of danger as a shipment of arms is stolen in Iraq. Rick is nearly killed and Kelly and Xena are ferried to the secret clinic he's taken to. As Rick heals and they race to find the mastermind behind the plot, the sex between them heats to the boiling point.
Publisher's Note: You just can't keep a good story down. Previously published as Scent of Danger with The Lotus Circle and then Cerridwen Press, this book has been revised and the bedroom door opened for Ellora's Cave.
A multi-published, award winning, Amazon and USA Today best-selling author, Desiree Holt has produced more than 200 titles and won many awards. She has received an EPIC E-Book Award, the Holt Medallion and many others including Author After Dark’s Author of the Year. She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The London Daily Mail. She lives in Florida with her cats who insist they help her write her books, and is addicted to football.
“Get out the ice water and fan…Desiree Holt delivers smoking hot alpha heroes and red hot romances.” Lea Franczak, USA Today Happy Ever After blog
I’m not a huge fan of romantic suspense for many reasons, but I had heard good things about Desiree Holt’s Phoenix Agency series so when Scent of Danger became available for review, I decided to give it a try. There were many aspects of Scent of Danger I thoroughly enjoyed and while I’m not a big believer in extrasensory perception I found the way it was wound into this story fascinating, the characters were intriguing and the whole concept of the Phoenix Agency and the services they provide believable. Overall, this book was entertaining and sexy, but most of all it featured a heroine who was more than capable of taking care of herself and doesn’t need a man to do it for her.
On a cross country trip Kelly Monroe is visiting her grandfather when she and her dog, Xena, connect with one of her grandfather’s employers, Eric “Rick” Latrobe and soon finds herself embroiled in a web of danger, mystery and intrigue.
As a member of the Phoenix agency Rick Latrobe is overseeing a huge shipment of arms and vehicles for a government contractor doing work in Iraq that has had its share of problems and his gut tells him that there is more on the horizon, when he meets Kelly and her unique dog he feels an instant connection to them both, but he has no idea they will both be instrumental in keeping him alive.
Although this is the third book in this series, I had no problem picking it up and getting right into the story or the characters. I loved Kelly’s spunk and the fact that she was smart and savvy and didn’t let anyone dismiss her talents or her connection with Xena. I like Rick and thought he was good for Kelly, but I didn’t feel as if I got to know him as well as I did Kelly. I think I would have liked a bit more background on him, but it was obvious he was well liked and well respected because when his integrity was called into question, everyone who really knew him had no doubts about him. Kelly and Rick connected immediately and Xena linked them in ways other people couldn’t understand or imagine. At times I felt like the relationship between them got lost in the story and I would have liked to see them have more time together when they weren’t in a crisis situation, but I can’t deny they had a remarkable connection.
I’ll admit I got a little weary of the espionage and suspense but probably because I figured out the “bad guy” early on in the story and was waiting for everyone else to catch on. Ms. Holt did a great job of masterminding the story; I just happen to be really good at figuring out these types of plots which is one reason I don’t read a lot of romantic suspense. I also had to suspend belief a bit about Xena‘s ability to send messages to both Kelly and Rick, but I did find this part of the story to be very entertaining.
Anyone who enjoys well thought out, well written romantic suspense with a strong heroine and a swoon worthy hero will want to add Desiree Holt’s Scent of Danger to your reading list.
Once again GREED is at the helm of this Phoenix Agency action pack mystery romance, it’s another explosive package that you can’t seem to get enough of, the energy and the scenes are electrifying and mind-blowing. Rick what can I say about Rick except he was one horny guy, who always seems to be in need where Kelly is concerned, but you know what I kinda like it, it gave the story character and more juice. The storyline is great as was expected and the characters are awesome, this has been one extra spicy adrenaline high read and it’s a must read make no mistake about it.
What is it about: Kelly Monroe was shocked when her dog, Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka seemed to bond at once with Rick Latrobe, a partner in the high profile Phoenix Agency. Ovcharkas are known for linking with only their owners. But Xena is picking up Rick’s wave length, very much aware when an attempt is made on Rick’s life and sensing all kinds of danger signals related to Rick’s current project: ferrying a shipment of arms to a private security cadre in Iraq. Rick is nearly killed when the shipment is stolen by terrorists who are hot on his trail. Only Kelly and Xena—coached by members of The Lotus Circle to expand the psychic link between the three of them—can keep him safe. As Rick scrambles to learn who’s behind the whole mess, the relationship he and Kelly have deepens. But Xena is the real star, not only signaling when danger is at hand but “sniffing” out the killers.
My thoughts: OMG I need to get the rest of this series and read it, it has everything in it that I love , an amazing dog, steamy hot romance, hot guys and action , as well as steamy sex scenes , will be getting the rest of this series as soon as I can, with that said I would love to say thinks to NetGalley for giving me the chance at finding a new series to fall in love with.
The romance was basically the same psychic mating thing as in the last book, this time with the addition of a psychic dog. (This wasn't the part I had a problem with.)
The part I had a problem with is the depiction of Iraqis and Muslims as lesser, untrustworthy, incompetent, yet somehow villainous. It was all based on negative stereotypes and, from what I could tell, no actual research or knowledge of Iraqi people. Yes, I said people. As in humans. Humans are complicated. These characters were.... flat, hollow, not real.
Also, and I can't believe I have to say this, but when U.S. contractors go into a country to exploit its people and resources, those contractors ARE NOT HEROES. They are STEALING, EXPLOITING, ABUSING already vulnerable people. If those vulnerable people don't recognize the heroes of your novels as actual heroes, MAYBE THAT'S BECAUSE YOUR HEROES ARE VILLAINS. So annoyed and grossed out by this.
This is fast becoming one of my new favorite series. I am a huge fan of military/private security and add in the parapsychology and I'm hooked!
This is Rick and Kelly's story with her dog, Xena, and it's is convoluted ride of drama, action, love, and more. It will keep you glued to the pages until you finish and let's face it, make you want a dog just like Xena.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am always attracted to stories with some paranormal elements. This story was dark, edgy and darn sexy. I received an ARC thru NetGalley and the description called to me. The Phoenix Agency story was previously published by another publisher and they have also been retitled. I have a few of these stories already, so its time to start reading. I loved the sexy chemistry between Kelly and Rick and the story grabbed me from start to finish. And I also loved Xena, Kelly's dog who is a breed that I had never heard of before. Great storytelling, and I am continuing with the series.
Again instant attraction , fall into bed instantly, despite being out of heroine's character.This time there are 3 in the relationship- a man a woman and an oversized clever dog,Xena. Storyline again has almost cut and pasted parts of book one and book two.The goodies keep falling for the same tricks from the baddies. I have tried to get through this series ,as it sounds good in theory, but it doesn't deliver the goods again.
Hmmmmmmm..... well this was a long read, there is romance, intrigue, action, but i just couldn't get into the story. Don't get me wrong, I want to know who did it, but in the end I was just meh...
Scent of Danger is the third book in the exciting Phoenix Agency series, and it just keeps getting better and better! With lots of action, mystery, suspense, danger, and intriguing twists and turns, this story will capture you right from the start, and keep you on the edge of your seat till the very end. I absolutely love this book, and it's a great addition to this fantastic series!
Rick Latrobe is another of the partners of the mysterious Phoenix Agency. There has been some trouble with minor theft at the private security contractor's location he's been working with in Iraq. He knows that something is going on, that he's seen something that would give him the answers he needs but can't remember, however he's unable to figure it out. When he arrives at the airfield after coming back from his latest trip to Iraq, the last thing he expects to see is the most beautiful woman he's ever seen talking to one of their employees.
Kelly decided to visit her grandfather on her way back home after visiting with friends in Florida. Before heading back home, she stops by the airfield where he works to say goodbye. Traveling with her dog Xena makes it impossible to fly due to her size, and since they're getting such a late start, they'll have to camp overnight at a campground on the way. Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka, and Kelly have a special bond, and are capable of communicating with one another by sensing what the other is thinking, by special hand signals, or through their dreams. The CO's are known to have psychic abilities, and only bond with one person, so her instant connection with Rick is completely unexpected.
When Rick is attacked leaving the airfield, even though they're miles away, Xena lets Kelly know that he's in danger. Reluctant because of how most people react to the psychic abilities they share, she's unsure weather to contact him or not. Still not sure about Xena's new protectivness towards Rick, or how he'll react to it, she decides that it's best for everyone if they just go home and forget that they ever met. Xena has other plans for them, especially with the extreme danger to Rick, and his current assignment. But will she be able to keep both Rick and Kelly safe until the men at Phoenix can figure out what's going on?
This was a fantastic story, and I loved how involved Xena was in everything. The chemistry between Rick and Kelly was sweet, sexy, and definitely hot. They made a great couple, and balanced one another perfectly. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I strongly recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
I have voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Xena (canine) warrior princess is the true star of this story but graciously lets her humans take center stage. Rick one of the partners in the Phoenix Agency. He's overseeing a lucrative security contract in Iraq for the firm but things are not going well. Small thefts keep occurring despite his best efforts. He's preparing to escort a large arms shipment to Iraq when he meets Kelly, granddaughter of their aircraft caretaker. He's bowled over the moment he sees her and convinces her to stay and have dinner with him. Dinner turns into dessert and an amazing night of sex. Kelly and her faithful companion Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka, share an impressisve psychic connection. The breed is known to be loyal to only one owner yet Xena immediately bonds with Rick. Kelly and Xena return to their home in Maine but Xena lets her know Rick is in danger. The other Phoenix owners try to recruit the pair to go to Iraq as extra security but Kelly leery of how quickly their relationship develops declines. Rick is seriously injured in Iraq and when he's flown back to the States for treatment Kelly and Xena appoint them selves as his security detail, much to Rick's delight. Rick knows he saw something in Iraq tied to the thefts but can't recall what. Once he recuperates, he sets himself up as bait to draw out their enemy which doesn't work. As the pressure mounts on the agency to turn over Rick who's set up as the fall guy, Rick with Kelly and Xena at his side go on the offensive. At every turn Xena keeps her humans safe, alerting them when danger is near. The only part of the story that didn't make sense is why the traitor, a trained sniper, didn't confirm Rick was dead when he shot him in Iraq. Aside from that minor inconsistency this is an action filled, quick read with plenty of heat and steamy scenes with the MCs. The couples from the prior books also make appearances.
Book 3 in the Phoenix Agency series takes up the story with Rick Latrobe .
Whist visiting her father at the hanger , owned by the Phoenix Agency , Kelly Monroe meets Ric . Most men shy away on meeting her when accompanied by her Caucasian Ovcharka Xena - for Xena is a one woman dog , large, intimidating and willing to protect her at all costs , with a special secret ....Xena is psychic ! No one is more surprised than Kelly when Xena bounds up to Ric , accepting him immediately - Kelly can almost see the bond between them forming . Ric however only has eyes for Kelly , unaware that anything is out of the ordinary , can feel the intense sexual between them ...determined to act upon it. Following their night together Ric must return to his job ....which is becoming more dangerous by the day . Xena through their bond is aware an attempt will be made on Ric's life and drives Kelly mad , trying to get her to warn Ric of what is going to happen . -She manages to convince the Phoenix Agency of the threat , they also have wives and friends with pyschic abilities . But Ric is in Iraq over-seeing a shipment of arms when he is betrayed and is badly wounded. He is airlifted back to America to a secret location to recover and is soon joined by Kelly and Xena . They are the only ones able to sense the continuing danger to Ric . Whilst Ric heals they must put the clues together to find the 'mastermind' behind the plot .... the heat between reaching boiling point .
Another great read in this series that combines , Suspense, Romance and Psychic abilities with consummate ease .
I was given an arc of this book by the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review .
Kelly only wanted to stop by and say hello to her grandfather on her way home to Maine. She did not expect to meet on the secret agent type guys he works for. Any more than she expected her very possessive and protective dog, Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka to smack her straight into his arms!
Rick never realised that Henry's granddaughter was quite so got and that she would have a dog the size of a small van! But he feels an instant pull to the redhead and manages to sweet talk her into a date. When the date becomes an overnight date, Rick realises that this is anything but a one shot deal for him. She may live in Maine but he'll find a way to make this work. He just an assignment in Iraq to finish first.
Kelly feels the same but before she knows it she is back on the road with Xena. But when Xena freaks out and then she learns that Rick was shot at and is in hospital, she realises that Xena knew something had happened to him. Kelly and Xena will have to use their psi bond, enhanced by the Lotus Circle, to keep Rick from further harm.
I'm loving this series of women with particular extra senses and the red hot alpa men who love them. I also now have a hankering for my own Xena!!! She is a star in her own right in this book.
The plot was good, although it was a little confusing at times with them jumping around to so many hideouts. The main characters were nice and strong- Kelly was determined to stay with her dog Zena and, and Zena was determined to stay with Rick, and Rick wanted them both to stay close. ;-) Rick definitely had some dom-like qualities in the bedroom which was very nice, but I felt Kelly was still very tentative in the intimacy department right up to the end. I couldn't understand her self doubt. Also I ended up skimming a few of the sex scenes toward the end because of over-saturation. Kudos again to the author for allowing Rick to take his time recuperating and having weakness, after being shot and not bouncing back in a couple of days like in other author's books. They kept mentioning that Zena had psychic abilities that was common to this breed of dogs, but no matter how many times I tried to research this fact I could find nothing, so this is definitely of the author's fictional license. All other aspects of the dog, the author described were mentioned in my research. So- yes to the plot; but just okay to the rest. Not quite up to the first two books. Really liked the dog, Zena too. I will keep reading this series.
This was the first book that I read in the Phoenix series, and I really enjoyed it! I love the mix of intrigue and romance, and there is non-stop action.so you cannot put the book down! It was really hard to figure out who was the guilty person and my guess was wrong!
It is great to see Kelly and Rick together and watch how they just fit together. I really love it when these tough guys meet a woman who brings them to their knees! The paranormal is still part of the Phoenix group as Kelly and her dog, Xena, can communicate with each other. Kelly is also surprised that Xena links to Rick which really helped keep Rick alive when his life was in danger.
I am not sure what it is about these Phoenix books that just draws me in and keeps me engaged, and just makes you feel good! It is also great when previous couples are part of the story and keep them involved. You also see all the other single guys and wonder who will be the next man to meet his match!
To be honest: I still am not quite sure what to think of the books of Desiree Holt. After reading Extrasensory I was having doubts. But when I saw the next parts in the series on Netgalley, my curiosity got the best of my and I had to know what would happen to Rick. Especially when I read from the blurb, that his life would be saved by a dog.
And yep, as a sceptic like me, this part of the story is very hard to believe. And yet, I still can't seem to let the book go. Because the story reads very easily and you can't help but fear for Rick's life and try to help solve the puzzle. With a lot of twist and turns, tension build-up and of course also some sparks flying between Kelly and Rick the story is a great read. So, in all, four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
And I must confess: I also requested Freeze Frame at Netgalley, the next part in the series... Sooooo, maybe the series just grows on me.
Suspense, check, romance check, hot alpha male and an intelligent gun wielding guard dog trainer made this worthwhile. Not a fan of erotica, but many times an author will have a good plot. As I am fond, of our our heroes coming home and being part of security places, this was a win for me. I did not read book 1, and I will check out book 3. The instant bed was a little wishy washy for me, and I pretty much figured out who the culprit was, halfway through, but there were still twist and turns that made this a good read. I enjoyed Xena and will be looking up that dog breed, it was just fascinating and hey a little PSI goes a long way. I am glad I took the time to read this, At one time this was an arc. I was new to NetGalley and did not realize the parameters. I apologize to the author, the publishing company and NetGalley for my delay, If you like erotica suspense with a little paranormal you will enjoy this.
ARC - I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest! A chance encounter between Kelly + Rick + Xena is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. The attraction between Kelly + Rick is instantaneous. Xena is an Caucasian Ovcharkas. Her breed is know for having psi abilities + only linking with his/her owner. It is very unusual for Xena to have linked w/ Kelly + Rick, but they are not complaining. Every time Kelly or Rick were in danger, Xena was almost the first to know. She was able to tell Kelly when Rick or Kelly were in danger. It was very fast, but Rick + Kelly knew they were meant for each other. Because of Xena's abilities, the Phoenix Agency decided to open a psi dept. How cool is that? You go Xena! There was a lot of action, drama, danger, romance, and sexy time as well. As always, I love this series.
Kelly Monroe meets Rick Latrobe as she is leaving her grandfather to return home to Maine. Her Caucasian Ovcharka, Zena seems to bond with Rick on meeting him which is very unusual for her breed. Rick is getting ready to leave to take supplies to Iraq for the company his security company is providing security for and though keeping the info low-key when he gets there they have trouble right away. Zena at home in Maine seems to know he is in trouble. The shipment is stolen and Rick is injured. In no time the relationship between Rick and Kelly turns to love and Zena tries to keep them both safe, first at the hospital where Rick is recovering and then as they try to figure out what is going on.. Fast pace and many twists and turns to the story.
This is Book 3 in the Phoenix Agency series. What a great series. I love each book in it. Kelly trains guard dogs for a living. She has a Caucasian Ovcharka named Xena as her personal guard dog. Kelly and Xena have a psychic connection. They meet Rick at the Phoenix Agency’s airfield. This is a fast paced story involving espionage, lots of bad guys trying to kill the good guys and all kinds of mysterious things happening. Kelly is a strong woman who can take care of herself in every way possible and she has great back up in Xena. I loved this book! I really want a Xena for myself now. I can’t wait to read the next book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book that I received from the Netgalley.
***copy provided by publisher through NetGalley***
DNF @ 9%
Lord have mercy. Another exposition, and yet again heavy-handed (the initial conversation between grandfather and granddaughter was all exposition, making the conversation stilted and too formal for the relationship), laden first chapter with characters whose names I forgot when the scene changed, an apparently matchmaking dog, and a completely unnecessary sex scene the incongruity of which made it come through as PWP.
In the end, I wasn't interested in either characters or plot to continue reading. I liked Xena, the dog, though.
Heart pounding action, mystery, danger and unexpected betrayal. This action packed romantic adventure series just keeps getting better with each new couple.
Kelly Monroe is smart, sassy, sexy and has the amazing ability to communicate with dogs. She also shares a special bound with her dog Xena. (her friend, protector and family) She is floored when she is introduced to Rick Latrobe for the first time and Xena inexplicably start to form the same bound with him. Rick is strong, sexy, charming and a total alpha male warrior. Running a project in a war torn county is not for the faint of heart. Loved every emotionally thrilling twist and turn.
An amazing story where a dog with psychic abilities bring two people together. Xena is a Caucasian Ovcharka. They usually only connect with one owner but on rare occasions, two. Kelly is at the airport saying goodbye to her grandfather. Rick comes out and Xena instantly bonds with him. Kelly can't believe it. Rick is instantly attracted to Kelly and they spend the night together. He feels the bond between the two of them. Rick's life has been threatened twice now. The second time he almost dies. Xena knows she has to be with him. With the help from Kelly, Xena and his team, they just have to draw out who is setting him up and trying to kill him.
The Phoenix protection agency is always looking for new ideas to improve their services,but a psychic dog who can talk to your mind?, Well that's a new one even for them...but when it is put to the test to save lives, they must rely on it. There are so many risks involved in this mission especially after they find there is an inside snitch giving out valuable information that could mean the end of the phoenix agency. This Book is filled with so many questions twists and turns It really keeps you on the edge of your seat! Great addition to the series. I love connection between Xena,the dog and her owner Kelly, and how she responds to Rick.
Loved it! Now this is a Psi that I can believe without problem. I swear my dog understands most of what I tell her and she sure does make herself clear to me of her needs. Truly Zena makes this book awesome. I kept thinking just how many lives does Rick have. If not for Kelly and Zena it would have been a few more lives needed. Not only do Kelly and Rick have a strong connection, her dog links the three of them in other ways. You will not be disappointed with Scent of Danger, that's for sure.
Scent of Danger is the third in Desiree Holt's Phoenix Agency series, a paranormal romantic suspense. Eric aka Rick Latrobe and Kelly Monroe meet in part because Kelly's dog, Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka, urges Kelly to make the time. Xena is more than a pet; she and Kelly are psychically connected, and somehow Xena tunes into Rick as well, appointing herself his personal guard.
Rick can use all the help he can get, when their latest job goes horribly wrong, he's nearly killed, and all signs point to him as the guilty party.
Ms Holt does a great job balancing the action with Rick and Kelly's growing relationship. A terrific addition to the series!
I really enjoy books with paranormal elements. But it is hard to find ones which don't go over the top, have interesting characters and great story lines. I am now sucked into this series because it has all of these elements. It was an enjoyable read, it had interesting characters and I look forward to reading more
Rick oh my, speechless, this book took an unlikely turn, I was shocked to see who the bad guy was. Dan and the others were hilarious, this book shows how true friends have your back no matter what. Kelly and Xena make me what to go out and get my own dog. The drama was off the charts good. I fall in love with this series the more I read
Part of the Phoenix Agency series. This book brings the story of Xena, a Caucasian Ovcharka dog, her owner Kelly and Rick who needs help on an assignment to save his own life and find the culprits. Good story line with the agency and interesting with mental link even involving Xena.
Ebook from Net Galley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.