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Arizona K9 #1
Avoiding the Badge
( These books are not romantic suspense or police work, they are contemporary romance.)
Rayna Michaels may be a veterinarian, but she knows a little something about the human heart--especially when it comes to worried pet owners. Law enforcement's bonds with their K9 partners are legendary, and Derek Hansen is a perfect example--he's had his dog Axle in more times than she can count in the last few months. And Derek's sculpted muscles and heart-stopping smile would be truly irresistible, if only he wasn't an officer of the law...
Derek can't get Rayna's stunning face and no-nonsense smarts out of his mind. Any excuse to see her will do, until he works up the nerve to ask her out. He's not sure where her resistance to cops comes from, though he's more than willing to prove he's one of the good ones. But when casual dating turns into explosive lovemaking, Derek knows he has to come clean about his past before the woman he loves finds out what he's been hiding and turns tail to run...
Rayna Michaels may be a veterinarian, but she knows a little something about the human heart--especially when it comes to worried pet owners. Law enforcement's bonds with their K9 partners are legendary, and Derek Hansen is a perfect example--he's had his dog Axle in more times than she can count in the last few months. And Derek's sculpted muscles and heart-stopping smile would be truly irresistible, if only he wasn't an officer of the law...
Derek can't get Rayna's stunning face and no-nonsense smarts out of his mind. Any excuse to see her will do, until he works up the nerve to ask her out. He's not sure where her resistance to cops comes from, though he's more than willing to prove he's one of the good ones. But when casual dating turns into explosive lovemaking, Derek knows he has to come clean about his past before the woman he loves finds out what he's been hiding and turns tail to run...
205 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2016
63 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Dorothy F. Shaw
20 books753 followersGet in bed (and read) with your favorite redhead!
Dorothy F. Shaw lives in Arizona, where the weather is hot, and the sunsets are always beautiful. She’s a self-proclaimed sex scene snob and is proud of it. When she’s not writing, she’s thinking about writing.
With her ever-open heart, bright red hair, and many colorful tattoos, she truly lives and loves in Technicolor!
Dorothy welcomes emails at: dorothyfshaw@gmail.com
Facebook.com/authordorothyfshaw
Bluesky: @dorothyfshaw.bsky.social
Instagram: AuthorDorothyFShaw
TikTok: @AuthorDorothyFShaw
Sign up for her newsletter: bit.ly/DFSeNews
www.dorothyfshaw.com
Dorothy F. Shaw lives in Arizona, where the weather is hot, and the sunsets are always beautiful. She’s a self-proclaimed sex scene snob and is proud of it. When she’s not writing, she’s thinking about writing.
With her ever-open heart, bright red hair, and many colorful tattoos, she truly lives and loves in Technicolor!
Dorothy welcomes emails at: dorothyfshaw@gmail.com
Facebook.com/authordorothyfshaw
Bluesky: @dorothyfshaw.bsky.social
Instagram: AuthorDorothyFShaw
TikTok: @AuthorDorothyFShaw
Sign up for her newsletter: bit.ly/DFSeNews
www.dorothyfshaw.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 7, 2021
Unfortunately for me, AVOIDING THE BADGE just didn't capture my interest. I made it about half way and ended up skimming the rest. While the writing style was just fine, I got tangled up in the character inconsistencies and a growing list of little problems that built on each other.
I wanted to like Derek and Rayna but I struggled to connect with their characters. Derek was alright but there was something slightly flat about his personality. He's pretty much obsessed with Rayna and he believes she's "the one" almost from the beginning. He constantly mentions how pure and innocent Rayna is and he loves her makeup free face and he just didn't seem to see any flaws in her even when they were there. As for Rayna, was too inconsistent in her actions; she doesn't trust cops because her father was a cop and he cheated over and over again on her mother. Rayna is attracted to Derek but she wants nothing to do with him -- until he asks her out and she promptly says yes. I expected a bit more resistance considering the build up to that point. I was also getting concerned for Rayna's health considering how often she was throbbing in various ways.
I don't mind insta-lust or insta-love but I just didn't believe it this time and that made it hard to accept how perfect they were together almost from the beginning. While I wasn't completely on board with the insta nature of their relationship, I did enjoy the chemistry Rayna and Derek share in the bedroom. Derek enjoys some light BDSM and he begins to introduce Rayna to things like dirty-talk, dominance, and simple bondage. I felt that Dorothy F. Shaw did a good job showing how kink can develop naturally in a relationship, as opposed to characters meeting in a BDSM club.
I wish this had worked out better for me but sadly I just couldn't make the connection or find the interest.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Content Warning: On page animal injury
I wanted to like Derek and Rayna but I struggled to connect with their characters. Derek was alright but there was something slightly flat about his personality. He's pretty much obsessed with Rayna and he believes she's "the one" almost from the beginning. He constantly mentions how pure and innocent Rayna is and he loves her makeup free face and he just didn't seem to see any flaws in her even when they were there. As for Rayna, was too inconsistent in her actions; she doesn't trust cops because her father was a cop and he cheated over and over again on her mother. Rayna is attracted to Derek but she wants nothing to do with him -- until he asks her out and she promptly says yes. I expected a bit more resistance considering the build up to that point. I was also getting concerned for Rayna's health considering how often she was throbbing in various ways.
I don't mind insta-lust or insta-love but I just didn't believe it this time and that made it hard to accept how perfect they were together almost from the beginning. While I wasn't completely on board with the insta nature of their relationship, I did enjoy the chemistry Rayna and Derek share in the bedroom. Derek enjoys some light BDSM and he begins to introduce Rayna to things like dirty-talk, dominance, and simple bondage. I felt that Dorothy F. Shaw did a good job showing how kink can develop naturally in a relationship, as opposed to characters meeting in a BDSM club.
I wish this had worked out better for me but sadly I just couldn't make the connection or find the interest.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Content Warning: On page animal injury
July 30, 2018
I won a copy to read and give my honest review.
This book needs to come with a disclaimer ***Explicit adult content & language***.
When I read blurb about a pretty vet and a hot cop with a K-9 partner, I thought it would be a great premise for a book.
The location was nice, and I liked the characters. If the author would have spent as much time developing the plot, characters, and dialog as she did the sex scenes, it could've been a really good book.
I'm not a prude, but the middle was almost like reading soft-porn.
I almost gave up and didn't finish the book.
But, the end was decent, once she focused on the characters, and their relationships.
This book had so much potential, I was just disappointed.
This book needs to come with a disclaimer ***Explicit adult content & language***.
When I read blurb about a pretty vet and a hot cop with a K-9 partner, I thought it would be a great premise for a book.
The location was nice, and I liked the characters. If the author would have spent as much time developing the plot, characters, and dialog as she did the sex scenes, it could've been a really good book.
I'm not a prude, but the middle was almost like reading soft-porn.
I almost gave up and didn't finish the book.
But, the end was decent, once she focused on the characters, and their relationships.
This book had so much potential, I was just disappointed.
October 11, 2018
3 Star Review of Avoiding The Badge (Arizona K9 #1) by Dorothy F Shaw
Dorothy F Shaw is a new author to me. I really liked the premise of this story. What’s not to love about a book that includes animals?
I found myself a little disappointed in this story.Although I liked the main characters of smoking hot cop Derek Hansen (and his K9 partner Axle)and veterinarian Rayna Michaels it was not enough for me to connect.
I felt that the storyline was a tad rushed and that there could have been more time given to developing a deeper plot, but then that is just my opinion. Derek appeared to be almost fixated on Rayna and she seemed to be oblivious to his feelings.
Rayna will not even contemplate dating a cop, as her father was one and cheated on her mother. Then suddenly Derek and Rayna were all over each other which was rather confusing.
There was just not enough to keep my attention in Avoiding The Badge. However having said that, although this book was not for me, I will check out more from this author in the future.
Dorothy F Shaw is a new author to me. I really liked the premise of this story. What’s not to love about a book that includes animals?
I found myself a little disappointed in this story.Although I liked the main characters of smoking hot cop Derek Hansen (and his K9 partner Axle)and veterinarian Rayna Michaels it was not enough for me to connect.
I felt that the storyline was a tad rushed and that there could have been more time given to developing a deeper plot, but then that is just my opinion. Derek appeared to be almost fixated on Rayna and she seemed to be oblivious to his feelings.
Rayna will not even contemplate dating a cop, as her father was one and cheated on her mother. Then suddenly Derek and Rayna were all over each other which was rather confusing.
There was just not enough to keep my attention in Avoiding The Badge. However having said that, although this book was not for me, I will check out more from this author in the future.
June 19, 2021
Three and a half stars
Avoiding the Badge is the first in Dorothy F. Shaw’s Arizona K9 trilogy. This hot contemporary romance is about Rayna Michaels and Officer Derek Hansen. Veterinarian Rayna has been seeing a lot of Derek and his canine partner Axle before he finally finds the courage to ask her on a date. Despite her decades long vow to never date a cop, Rayna can’t resist Derek’s invitation, and soon Derek and Rayna are discovering they are VERY compatible behind closed doors…
Ms Shaw does a great job with Rayna and Derek’s growing relationship, and while Rayna’s extreme reactions to perceived infractions made my head spin, on the other hand, her deeply felt emotions are well portrayed. I personally wanted to shake her for how tightly she held her beliefs that were set in place by her childhood. While I was frustrated by their mutual holding back of what was important to them, it was well written, and Ms Shaw’s secondary characters are terrific as well.
I am looking forward to the rest of the series!
Avoiding the Badge is the first in Dorothy F. Shaw’s Arizona K9 trilogy. This hot contemporary romance is about Rayna Michaels and Officer Derek Hansen. Veterinarian Rayna has been seeing a lot of Derek and his canine partner Axle before he finally finds the courage to ask her on a date. Despite her decades long vow to never date a cop, Rayna can’t resist Derek’s invitation, and soon Derek and Rayna are discovering they are VERY compatible behind closed doors…
Ms Shaw does a great job with Rayna and Derek’s growing relationship, and while Rayna’s extreme reactions to perceived infractions made my head spin, on the other hand, her deeply felt emotions are well portrayed. I personally wanted to shake her for how tightly she held her beliefs that were set in place by her childhood. While I was frustrated by their mutual holding back of what was important to them, it was well written, and Ms Shaw’s secondary characters are terrific as well.
I am looking forward to the rest of the series!
June 24, 2019
This is a first read for me by this author. The beginning sucked me in. Derek is one alpha dirty talker. But I will say it dragged and the main couples argument was kind of lame. I might try the next book to see if it's better.
July 29, 2018
I won Avoiding the Badge: Arizona K9 from Goodreads~~Thank You!
Avoiding the Badge is the first in the Arizona K9 series and is also the first book I’ve read by this author. I entered the giveaway based on the book description – it sounded like a good romance suited for a summer beach read. I was not prepared for the BDSM, and, while mild, didn’t seem necessary to the story. It was a fun read, but just seemed to be lacking in something.
Avoiding the Badge is the first in the Arizona K9 series and is also the first book I’ve read by this author. I entered the giveaway based on the book description – it sounded like a good romance suited for a summer beach read. I was not prepared for the BDSM, and, while mild, didn’t seem necessary to the story. It was a fun read, but just seemed to be lacking in something.
July 26, 2018
The cover appealed to me but unfortunately the book did not. I have never read anything by Dorothy F. Shaw before so I was not prepared for her style of writing.
I did not connect with the characters. Although I liked the idea of a veterinarian and a K-9 cop together, I did not like these two people together. I thought some of the story line was forced especially the submissive angle.
All in all this book was not for me.
I did not connect with the characters. Although I liked the idea of a veterinarian and a K-9 cop together, I did not like these two people together. I thought some of the story line was forced especially the submissive angle.
All in all this book was not for me.
September 8, 2018
I picked up this book bec of the cute blurb. I really liked the idea of a vet and a K-9 officer.
This was also my first book by this author.
I didn’t know that this would have BDSM, which I’m not into. But the 1-Star is not related to the BDSM at all. I didn’t like this book bec of how the “main” conflict was tacked. The H doesn’t tell the h that he has a 10yr old daughter until almost 3/4 of the book!!! And he wrestles and waffles with telling her about his daughter for majority of the book! Ummmm, what the heck? Major turn-off.
This was also my first book by this author.
I didn’t know that this would have BDSM, which I’m not into. But the 1-Star is not related to the BDSM at all. I didn’t like this book bec of how the “main” conflict was tacked. The H doesn’t tell the h that he has a 10yr old daughter until almost 3/4 of the book!!! And he wrestles and waffles with telling her about his daughter for majority of the book! Ummmm, what the heck? Major turn-off.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2018
True to Dorothy Shaw form, Avoiding the Badge is full of everything I love about her writing. Sex. Sexy times. Sexy Character's. Crass Language. If this is not your cup of tea well, I am sorry. But it's so so very much mine!
Let me just say this...the K9 officer's in my neck of the woods look and act nothing like what I envision Hotty McHotpants Derek looking like. Or acting like. And I love him! God do I love him!
If you are looking for a steamy, hot, sexy read then I recommend this!!
Let me just say this...the K9 officer's in my neck of the woods look and act nothing like what I envision Hotty McHotpants Derek looking like. Or acting like. And I love him! God do I love him!
If you are looking for a steamy, hot, sexy read then I recommend this!!
November 30, 2018
Avoiding the Badge is the first novel in the Arizona K9 series and the first book I've read by Dorothy Shaw, and, based on this novel, she's off to a fairly good start, especially if you like men in uniform, dogs, and lots of steamy sex in your romance novels. It gets a 3.5 star rating from this reader.
The novel centers around Rayna Michaels, a veterinarian, whose entire life is and has been her career, and Derek Hansen, a tall, dark and extremely handsome cop and K9 officer who works with an endearing German shepherd named Axle. The two first meet when Axle is injured while on the job, chasing down a criminal, and as soon as Derek meets Rayna, who considers herself plain, Derek has eyes only for her. After that first vet visit, Derek has brought Axle in to be checked over 3 times in 3 weeks, just to get closer to Rayna, who doesn't appear at all interested in him but she is. Why it takes 32-year-old Derek months to ask her for a date seemed a little too incongruous to this reader. If he's as much of a hunk as described, one would surmise he probably has women beating down his door.
It's easier to understand why Rayna at first considers Derek off-limits, she doesn't date cops. We soon find out that her reticence is due to the fact that her father was also a policeman, and a serial cheater with a long string of affairs that tore her mother and her familyapart--and the arguments between her parents were loud ones and weren't hidden from young Rayna. After her parents divorced, her mother raised Rayna and drilled the "never date a cop, they're all cheaters" mantra into her head. But Derek is hard to resist, and it's pretty much a case of insta-lust for Rayna, who hasn't been out on a date in over 4 years, and barely remembers it.
We also soon learn that Derek is a sexual dominant and into BDSM, something Rayna has never experienced, but where Derek is concerned, she's certainly willing to try anything and she does, and while none of the aforementioned kink bothered me, the fact that although we're told that for the past 6 weeks they've been dating constantly, most of the rest of this novel is comprised of little more than hot sex and dirty talk between these two characters, and some character development would have been nice and it certainly would have enhanced the depth of this novel.
It takes Rayna far too long to explain to Derek why his being a policeman keeps her from wanting more than just hot sex from and with him. And Derek is very close-mouthed about the fact that not only has he been married before, but also that he is still best friends with his ex-wife, and that he has a 10-year-old daughter, something Rayna finds out the hard way, spotting him and his ex together on a park bench as she drives past them in the middle of what's really an innocent hug and kiss between Derek and his ex. It's not so innocent as far as Rayna is concerned--it emotionally crushes her, and she abruptly ends the relationship via text message.
While I liked this dramatic turn of events--something finally took place outside of the bedroom, and the additional drama that followed en route to the expected HEA ending, it all came a little too late, in this reader's opinion. I'm glad we eventually and finally got to see Derek doing his job, something we should have seen far earlier in the novel. Considering the fact that I'm aware that being a policeman isn't a 9 to 5 job, he seems to have more free time than any policeman I've ever known or read about.
Derek and Rayna are not teenagers, they're adults, but Rayna certainly doesn't act like one. Derek has been incredibly sweet, kind, and charming to her throughout their short relationship, and has even admitted that he loves her, so her refusal to even let him explain himself struck me as incredibly immature for a 30-something. What I also couldn't accept was why Derek put off telling Rayna about his daughter and his ex-wife for 90% of the novel. Divorce is not an uncommon occurrence in this day and age, and the statistics are clear. Most marriages, especially those that occur because of an unexpected pregnancy and simply being too young to marry in the first place, end in divorce. There's no shame in that, and although Derek spends a lot of time trying to discover how Rayna feels about marriage and children, he never flat-out tells her why he's asking.
All in all, this novel was a steamy and enjoyable read, and would have scored a higher rating from this reader had the story and these two characters been more fully fleshed out. The set up for the next novel in the series was obvious, and I'm hoping the author spends a little more on character development and plot than she did in this one.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
The novel centers around Rayna Michaels, a veterinarian, whose entire life is and has been her career, and Derek Hansen, a tall, dark and extremely handsome cop and K9 officer who works with an endearing German shepherd named Axle. The two first meet when Axle is injured while on the job, chasing down a criminal, and as soon as Derek meets Rayna, who considers herself plain, Derek has eyes only for her. After that first vet visit, Derek has brought Axle in to be checked over 3 times in 3 weeks, just to get closer to Rayna, who doesn't appear at all interested in him but she is. Why it takes 32-year-old Derek months to ask her for a date seemed a little too incongruous to this reader. If he's as much of a hunk as described, one would surmise he probably has women beating down his door.
It's easier to understand why Rayna at first considers Derek off-limits, she doesn't date cops. We soon find out that her reticence is due to the fact that her father was also a policeman, and a serial cheater with a long string of affairs that tore her mother and her familyapart--and the arguments between her parents were loud ones and weren't hidden from young Rayna. After her parents divorced, her mother raised Rayna and drilled the "never date a cop, they're all cheaters" mantra into her head. But Derek is hard to resist, and it's pretty much a case of insta-lust for Rayna, who hasn't been out on a date in over 4 years, and barely remembers it.
We also soon learn that Derek is a sexual dominant and into BDSM, something Rayna has never experienced, but where Derek is concerned, she's certainly willing to try anything and she does, and while none of the aforementioned kink bothered me, the fact that although we're told that for the past 6 weeks they've been dating constantly, most of the rest of this novel is comprised of little more than hot sex and dirty talk between these two characters, and some character development would have been nice and it certainly would have enhanced the depth of this novel.
It takes Rayna far too long to explain to Derek why his being a policeman keeps her from wanting more than just hot sex from and with him. And Derek is very close-mouthed about the fact that not only has he been married before, but also that he is still best friends with his ex-wife, and that he has a 10-year-old daughter, something Rayna finds out the hard way, spotting him and his ex together on a park bench as she drives past them in the middle of what's really an innocent hug and kiss between Derek and his ex. It's not so innocent as far as Rayna is concerned--it emotionally crushes her, and she abruptly ends the relationship via text message.
While I liked this dramatic turn of events--something finally took place outside of the bedroom, and the additional drama that followed en route to the expected HEA ending, it all came a little too late, in this reader's opinion. I'm glad we eventually and finally got to see Derek doing his job, something we should have seen far earlier in the novel. Considering the fact that I'm aware that being a policeman isn't a 9 to 5 job, he seems to have more free time than any policeman I've ever known or read about.
Derek and Rayna are not teenagers, they're adults, but Rayna certainly doesn't act like one. Derek has been incredibly sweet, kind, and charming to her throughout their short relationship, and has even admitted that he loves her, so her refusal to even let him explain himself struck me as incredibly immature for a 30-something. What I also couldn't accept was why Derek put off telling Rayna about his daughter and his ex-wife for 90% of the novel. Divorce is not an uncommon occurrence in this day and age, and the statistics are clear. Most marriages, especially those that occur because of an unexpected pregnancy and simply being too young to marry in the first place, end in divorce. There's no shame in that, and although Derek spends a lot of time trying to discover how Rayna feels about marriage and children, he never flat-out tells her why he's asking.
All in all, this novel was a steamy and enjoyable read, and would have scored a higher rating from this reader had the story and these two characters been more fully fleshed out. The set up for the next novel in the series was obvious, and I'm hoping the author spends a little more on character development and plot than she did in this one.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2018
2.5 stars. I have read and really enjoyed books by this author in the past, but, unfortunately, this one missed the mark for me. Avoiding the Badge is Rayna and Derek's story. Rayna is a veterinarian and Derek is a K-9 cop. He brings his dog partner, Axle, into her vet office often. Derek has a crush on Rayna. He starts bringing Axle in all the time for "check ups" just so he can see her again, until he finally gets the nerve to ask her out. The two have an instant chemistry and connection. But Rayna has baggage over her father being a cop who was unfaithful to her mother. And Derek has secrets he keeps from Rayna, which leads to a lot of drama. There is a good bit of angst, but they do finally get a HFN.
This book had so much potential. A couple who clearly adored each other and great chemistry. I liked the story in this book, but many small frustrations hampered my overall enjoyment. In general, I liked Rayna and Derek's characters. They had good chemistry, but very poor communication. I hated the big conflict being over something so dumb that could have been prevented.The couple was together for a short time and then separated, because of the big conflict, for as long as they were together. I didn't feel like the problem that caused the conflict was truly discussed and their wants and wishes for the relationship for the future fully ironed out. It was frustrating not see that resolved. When they were separated, they both expressed to themselves things that they wished they'd told each other, but we never got to see them tell each other those things. They don't reunite until 98%. We don't get to see any more happy times with them together after that, which makes it hard for me to imagine their HEA. The epilogue is one page later after they are reunited and is not satisfying or revealing at all.
Another thing that bothered me was this. While Derek adored Rayna and never considered any other women, there are numerous instances of OW drama. Women chased him and flirted with him, which hurt Rayna, especially because of her father's history. There were no instances of OM wanting Rayna. I don't really understand that double standard. I think it could have done Derek some good to be jealous for once.
Overall, I was somewhat disappointed in this book. I feel like this author has a lot of talent and writes great characters with depth and chemistry. But this book had a lot of problems for me. Still, the writing and the story are good. I recommend giving the book a try for yourself and making up your own mind. I will give this author another try in the future.
This book had so much potential. A couple who clearly adored each other and great chemistry. I liked the story in this book, but many small frustrations hampered my overall enjoyment. In general, I liked Rayna and Derek's characters. They had good chemistry, but very poor communication. I hated the big conflict being over something so dumb that could have been prevented.The couple was together for a short time and then separated, because of the big conflict, for as long as they were together. I didn't feel like the problem that caused the conflict was truly discussed and their wants and wishes for the relationship for the future fully ironed out. It was frustrating not see that resolved. When they were separated, they both expressed to themselves things that they wished they'd told each other, but we never got to see them tell each other those things. They don't reunite until 98%. We don't get to see any more happy times with them together after that, which makes it hard for me to imagine their HEA. The epilogue is one page later after they are reunited and is not satisfying or revealing at all.
Another thing that bothered me was this. While Derek adored Rayna and never considered any other women, there are numerous instances of OW drama. Women chased him and flirted with him, which hurt Rayna, especially because of her father's history. There were no instances of OM wanting Rayna. I don't really understand that double standard. I think it could have done Derek some good to be jealous for once.
Overall, I was somewhat disappointed in this book. I feel like this author has a lot of talent and writes great characters with depth and chemistry. But this book had a lot of problems for me. Still, the writing and the story are good. I recommend giving the book a try for yourself and making up your own mind. I will give this author another try in the future.
July 19, 2018
**I received a copy of Avoiding the Badge from Net Galley and Kensington Book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review**
Avoiding the Badge by Dorothy F. Shaw is the first book in her Arizona K9 series. This is the first time I've read Ms. Shaw and hope in the future that Jeff, Rio and Rayna's BFF Tish get a book in the series. I'll add that there's mild BDSM in the story but it doesn't detract from the story instead it just adds a bit of spice to Rayna and Derek.
Rayna Michaels meets Derek Hansen and his K9 partner Axle after his dog was shot during a take down. But now Derek is inventing excuses to keep having Axle checked after each arrest just so he can see Rayna. Only she's not going to admit that she likes him to her office staff who think he's one hot cop also. When they finally agree to a date it doesn't take long for them to explore their BDSM sides. But it could all come to an end as Rayna doesn't like cops due to her father's betrayal of her mother and Derek also has a secret that he's afraid to tell her. Will they be able to repair their relationship once the secret has been told or will they go their separate ways?
Derek Hansen has it bad for the vet who treated his K9 partner Axle (who has a personality that's laugh worthy) and pretty soon he'll going to run out of excuses to keep bringing in Axle just because he's afraid to ask her for date. Once they start dating they both find out that the sex is off the charts. When she tells him why she doesn't want a permanent relationship with him because he's a cop, he soon realizes that his secret may make or break them up. However, when he takes down a motorist and is injured neither can live without the other.
Avoiding the Badge by Dorothy F. Shaw is the first book in her Arizona K9 series. This is the first time I've read Ms. Shaw and hope in the future that Jeff, Rio and Rayna's BFF Tish get a book in the series. I'll add that there's mild BDSM in the story but it doesn't detract from the story instead it just adds a bit of spice to Rayna and Derek.
Rayna Michaels meets Derek Hansen and his K9 partner Axle after his dog was shot during a take down. But now Derek is inventing excuses to keep having Axle checked after each arrest just so he can see Rayna. Only she's not going to admit that she likes him to her office staff who think he's one hot cop also. When they finally agree to a date it doesn't take long for them to explore their BDSM sides. But it could all come to an end as Rayna doesn't like cops due to her father's betrayal of her mother and Derek also has a secret that he's afraid to tell her. Will they be able to repair their relationship once the secret has been told or will they go their separate ways?
Derek Hansen has it bad for the vet who treated his K9 partner Axle (who has a personality that's laugh worthy) and pretty soon he'll going to run out of excuses to keep bringing in Axle just because he's afraid to ask her for date. Once they start dating they both find out that the sex is off the charts. When she tells him why she doesn't want a permanent relationship with him because he's a cop, he soon realizes that his secret may make or break them up. However, when he takes down a motorist and is injured neither can live without the other.
September 14, 2018
Rayna has had very little time for dating (basically none at all) but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t notice when the sexy cop comes into her veterinarian office. Derek can’t stay away from the woman – even though she is his dog’s vet and she doesn’t even act like she’s affected by him. When he finally gathers the courage to ask her on a date, she accepts and their relationship quickly progresses from there. There are some things that are kept to themselves – like Derek’s ex wife and daughter, and Rayna’s dislike of relationships with cops. These are small things that can be overcome together, right?
I had never read anything by this author but I read the synopsis and knew I’d want to read it. I just love any man in uniform so when the Hero if the book turned out to be a super sexy, dirty talking, cop with a K9 partner – woo, I was hooked. The relationship between Rayna and Derek seemed to progress rather quickly, but it is done in a way that the reader can believe the speed at which their feelings deepen. They both acknowledge the strong connection at the start but it feels more like lust at first sight. The more time they spend together the more the connect until the reader is really just waiting for the conflict to come. I liked the way the author brought about the truths that they had been keeping from each other and I really enjoyed the steps that the two characters took in order to overcome the troubles in their path. I won’t say anymore because I don’t want to spoil anything for any readers, but I will say that overall I’d give this book a 4 star rating and I would definitely recommend to my readers and friends.
**4 stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
I had never read anything by this author but I read the synopsis and knew I’d want to read it. I just love any man in uniform so when the Hero if the book turned out to be a super sexy, dirty talking, cop with a K9 partner – woo, I was hooked. The relationship between Rayna and Derek seemed to progress rather quickly, but it is done in a way that the reader can believe the speed at which their feelings deepen. They both acknowledge the strong connection at the start but it feels more like lust at first sight. The more time they spend together the more the connect until the reader is really just waiting for the conflict to come. I liked the way the author brought about the truths that they had been keeping from each other and I really enjoyed the steps that the two characters took in order to overcome the troubles in their path. I won’t say anymore because I don’t want to spoil anything for any readers, but I will say that overall I’d give this book a 4 star rating and I would definitely recommend to my readers and friends.
**4 stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
August 6, 2018
Avoiding the Badge by Dorothy F. Shaw is about this sexy as hell officer who took his canine partner to a vet. The vet happened to be a gorgeous woman who took his breath away. Plus, she was sweet. Ever since then, he's been bringing in his dog to the vet for a check-up just to be close to her.
This felt a bit stalkerish. He meets her and immediately goes, that's the woman. Mostly because of her looks. This book was all about his sexual lust towards her. I couldn't connect with him nor her as main characters. Then the sex was the main purpose of this book. It was about pain sex. BDSM to be specific. I have read other books with BDSM scenes and felt more like an actual story than this book did. It failed my expectations in the romance department. Was it hot? If you're into the graphic sex, then, yes. But all I think about was...when was this book going to end. I did not like either character. Okay, so then, the female vet has this issue with officers due to her dad. That was briefly mentioned and yet she took a chance on this officer oozing of lust and sex. He did not have to work hard to get her to have sex with him. Nor did he have to work hard to get her to trust him either. But were too far lost in lust towards the other to even think about real trust. Again, that's why this book just did not meet my expectations for a contemporary romance.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
This felt a bit stalkerish. He meets her and immediately goes, that's the woman. Mostly because of her looks. This book was all about his sexual lust towards her. I couldn't connect with him nor her as main characters. Then the sex was the main purpose of this book. It was about pain sex. BDSM to be specific. I have read other books with BDSM scenes and felt more like an actual story than this book did. It failed my expectations in the romance department. Was it hot? If you're into the graphic sex, then, yes. But all I think about was...when was this book going to end. I did not like either character. Okay, so then, the female vet has this issue with officers due to her dad. That was briefly mentioned and yet she took a chance on this officer oozing of lust and sex. He did not have to work hard to get her to have sex with him. Nor did he have to work hard to get her to trust him either. But were too far lost in lust towards the other to even think about real trust. Again, that's why this book just did not meet my expectations for a contemporary romance.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
September 3, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I love trying new authors. Sometimes they are a hit, other times I just can't get into them. It happens and I use to hate it but as I grow older I realize that there are plenty of authors and readers out there for everyone.
In the case of Avoiding the Badge I have to admit it wasn't a hit for me. I didn't hate it or anything, I just really couldn't connect with the characters at all.
I loved the whole idea of the story. It sounded so cute on paper. Ha, like what I did there? Never mind. In my mind it was funny. Like I was saying, I really liked the idea of the story but I kept waiting to really get into the characters...and couldn't.
By the halfway point I really had to force myself to finish it. I just...oh boy.
If I had to put my finger on why I didn't get into it I'd have to say I think that the characters on their own aren't bad, but together they just didn't work for me. Now maybe I missed something as I rushed through the book but I don't really think so. Most of the time animals in a book are on the top of my list.
I'm glad I tried her but I won't be trying another of her books and time soon. I'd love to hear from anyone who's read this book, what did you think?
Follow me on:
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ARC received for a honest review
I love trying new authors. Sometimes they are a hit, other times I just can't get into them. It happens and I use to hate it but as I grow older I realize that there are plenty of authors and readers out there for everyone.
In the case of Avoiding the Badge I have to admit it wasn't a hit for me. I didn't hate it or anything, I just really couldn't connect with the characters at all.
I loved the whole idea of the story. It sounded so cute on paper. Ha, like what I did there? Never mind. In my mind it was funny. Like I was saying, I really liked the idea of the story but I kept waiting to really get into the characters...and couldn't.
By the halfway point I really had to force myself to finish it. I just...oh boy.
If I had to put my finger on why I didn't get into it I'd have to say I think that the characters on their own aren't bad, but together they just didn't work for me. Now maybe I missed something as I rushed through the book but I don't really think so. Most of the time animals in a book are on the top of my list.
I'm glad I tried her but I won't be trying another of her books and time soon. I'd love to hear from anyone who's read this book, what did you think?
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
August 24, 2018
This book just didn't work for me. The blurb looked interesting enough, K-9 officer and a Vet and I felt it fell miserably short of that. Dex Hansen is the hottest thing in town and a K-9 handler. When his partner Axel is injured he meets Rayna the local Vet. After that, Dex starts paying weekly visits to the office, for "check ups" for Axel when he's basically too scared to ask Rayna out on a date. Rayna doesn't do cops since he father was a police officer and cheated on her mother relentlessly. Yet when he finally asks her out, she agrees. Then invites him home with her. Dex is dominant and the story alludes that he's got his mitts into a little kink, but the book doesn't show us that. Most of what we see are two one dimensional main characters, with two annoying as hell friends and page after page of redundant sex, leaving me to wonder if there's a plot buried under here somewhere when it's obvious there isn't one. I could drone on about a few other things the book lacked but that would just be repetitious.
I knocked this up to 3 stars because of Axel. I loved that dog. I really had hoped this book would bring it and I'm sorry to say it didn't.
*arc from NetGalley and Publisher for an honest review*
I knocked this up to 3 stars because of Axel. I loved that dog. I really had hoped this book would bring it and I'm sorry to say it didn't.
*arc from NetGalley and Publisher for an honest review*
September 4, 2018
3:5*
Rayna Michaels grow up with a father who was cop and a incredibly unfaithful man. She knew she never to trust a cop with her heart and vowed never to date one. Being a vet with her own practice has kept her busy with little social life. When Derek Hansen a K9 cop brings his partner in because of an injury she sees a super sexy man who takes her breath away and just might convince her to take a risk. Derek knows Rayna could be the one and once he kisses her with their off the charts chemistry he convinces her to go out with him.
Weeks later Rayna is still skittish but their intense chemistry and Derek being almost to good to be true. Rayna’s childhood has left her with the thoughts of no marriage or children and she’s made it clear to Derek that’s is never been something for her. Derek is keeping a secret that could ruin everything and the longer he hides it the more he fears losing the only woman he’s ever loved.
Secrets, misunderstandings and fear may just be the end to something amazing and worth the risk.
I enjoyed the book and Derek is a super sexy alpha male but the storyline was a bite predictable. Still worth reading though. This is the first book by Ms. Shaw I’ve read.
Rayna Michaels grow up with a father who was cop and a incredibly unfaithful man. She knew she never to trust a cop with her heart and vowed never to date one. Being a vet with her own practice has kept her busy with little social life. When Derek Hansen a K9 cop brings his partner in because of an injury she sees a super sexy man who takes her breath away and just might convince her to take a risk. Derek knows Rayna could be the one and once he kisses her with their off the charts chemistry he convinces her to go out with him.
Weeks later Rayna is still skittish but their intense chemistry and Derek being almost to good to be true. Rayna’s childhood has left her with the thoughts of no marriage or children and she’s made it clear to Derek that’s is never been something for her. Derek is keeping a secret that could ruin everything and the longer he hides it the more he fears losing the only woman he’s ever loved.
Secrets, misunderstandings and fear may just be the end to something amazing and worth the risk.
I enjoyed the book and Derek is a super sexy alpha male but the storyline was a bite predictable. Still worth reading though. This is the first book by Ms. Shaw I’ve read.
January 8, 2019
I received an ARC of this book, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be looking for more! Coming from a long time veterinary background and having family in law enforcement, it is often hard for me to read a book of those subjects, due to the multiple mistakes commonly made. However, this author did NOT disappoint and DID do her homework! There were just a couple of things from the veterinary side that may have been a tad of a stretch for me, but overall, super job on factual info!!!
This book has a great romance mix of sexual tension, turmoil and drama, separation, but an HEA, with no cheating. The sex scenes were H-O-T, there were several of them and never did you feel that you were reading the same one over again. In addition to all of that, I felt that the author gave a truly realistic timeline for both the time from attraction, to stronger feelings and the time for the h to evolve her sexually adventurous side.
My only reason for giving 4 stars instead of 5, is that I felt a few times that the h’s dramatic reactions were a little much and a lot immature, but drama is what makes a good HEA build up.
So, Ms. Shaw..... When do we get Jeff and Tish’s story? I’ll be anxiously awaiting! =)
This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be looking for more! Coming from a long time veterinary background and having family in law enforcement, it is often hard for me to read a book of those subjects, due to the multiple mistakes commonly made. However, this author did NOT disappoint and DID do her homework! There were just a couple of things from the veterinary side that may have been a tad of a stretch for me, but overall, super job on factual info!!!
This book has a great romance mix of sexual tension, turmoil and drama, separation, but an HEA, with no cheating. The sex scenes were H-O-T, there were several of them and never did you feel that you were reading the same one over again. In addition to all of that, I felt that the author gave a truly realistic timeline for both the time from attraction, to stronger feelings and the time for the h to evolve her sexually adventurous side.
My only reason for giving 4 stars instead of 5, is that I felt a few times that the h’s dramatic reactions were a little much and a lot immature, but drama is what makes a good HEA build up.
So, Ms. Shaw..... When do we get Jeff and Tish’s story? I’ll be anxiously awaiting! =)
July 17, 2018
Avoiding the Badge is Rayners mantra, with her distrust of police officers, having a father who continually had affairs throughout her childhood destroying her parents marriage.
As a veterinarian she meets Derek a police officer when he has to have his K9 police dog Axel treated after Axel is injured chasing down a criminal. Although fully healed Derek comes up with numerous excuses to bring Axel to be checked by Rayner as he is completely smitten. Rayner accepts when Derek finally mans up and asks her out trying to put aside her insecurities of dating a police officer. Sparks fly on their first date and they end up having sex which for both of them is off the scales to what they've known previously, although graphically described the scenes are well written.
Derek needs to tell Rayner something about his past but is worried it may stop Rayner continuing the relationship.
Good interaction between the main leads and a light enjoyable story.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for opportunity to review this book.
As a veterinarian she meets Derek a police officer when he has to have his K9 police dog Axel treated after Axel is injured chasing down a criminal. Although fully healed Derek comes up with numerous excuses to bring Axel to be checked by Rayner as he is completely smitten. Rayner accepts when Derek finally mans up and asks her out trying to put aside her insecurities of dating a police officer. Sparks fly on their first date and they end up having sex which for both of them is off the scales to what they've known previously, although graphically described the scenes are well written.
Derek needs to tell Rayner something about his past but is worried it may stop Rayner continuing the relationship.
Good interaction between the main leads and a light enjoyable story.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for opportunity to review this book.
December 31, 2019
It's been a long time since I felt so grateful and relieved to reach the end of the book. This book was the epitome of false advertising. "50 shades of gray" is not my thing, but at least it had the decency to advertise itself that way. Calling this series "Arizona K9" and including the dog in the summary and on the cover is the most ridiculous, misleading marketing possible for this book. I am not exaggerating in saying that 85-90% of this book is sex, with a definite eye-rolling, unappealing "dominant man" theme. Which sure, if that's your style that's fine, but it is not what this book advertises itself as and is definitely not what I was interested in. Even putting that aside, Rayna is a pathetic doormat with some serious emotional hang-ups that is just totally unlikeable. I would have given this zero stars if I could have, and can only recommend this if you're looking for a "50 shades of gray"-type book (and again, that's not my thing, so I couldn't even tell you for sure if it's good at that). Thoroughly unsatisfying and misleading.
July 14, 2018
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Dorothy Shaw book. I loved the set-up. The heroine, Rayna, is a local veterinarian. Derek, the hero, is a K9 police officer. The two meet when Derek’s dog, Axel, is injured. Even after Axel is healed, Derek keeps inventing excuses to see the lovely veterinarian.
It was an okay read for me. I didn’t feel like there was much character or plot development. The two experienced insta-attraction and fell into bed fairly quickly. The conflict in the book was her distrust of cops (her father was a cop) and his inability to share some personal information (don’t want to add spoilers here). It seemed a bit contrived. I did enjoy the interaction between the two main characters though and there was a cast of good secondary characters.
This was my first Dorothy Shaw book. I loved the set-up. The heroine, Rayna, is a local veterinarian. Derek, the hero, is a K9 police officer. The two meet when Derek’s dog, Axel, is injured. Even after Axel is healed, Derek keeps inventing excuses to see the lovely veterinarian.
It was an okay read for me. I didn’t feel like there was much character or plot development. The two experienced insta-attraction and fell into bed fairly quickly. The conflict in the book was her distrust of cops (her father was a cop) and his inability to share some personal information (don’t want to add spoilers here). It seemed a bit contrived. I did enjoy the interaction between the two main characters though and there was a cast of good secondary characters.
July 31, 2018
Rayna, a dog and cat veterinarian, and Derek, a K9 cop. A good set up, and overall I liked the concept of the story. Wish there would have been more with the dog aspect, since that is what got them together in the first place. Also, considering there were in their 30s, I felt at times that they acted immature with their language and emotions. She also seemed a bit over the top finding out about his daughter. It seemed to me he should have been more angry than she was. Also felt they jumped into bed too quickly, and the spanking and handcuffs didn't quite seem to fit. A little creepy that a cop would be turned on by this. JMHO. Overall though, if you want a quick easy read, with a lot of hot scenes then this is the read for you. Would recommend.
September 10, 2018
A really sweet, really hot fun love story between shy veterinarian Rayna and K9 officer Derek. After months of taking his dog to unnecessary appointment to vet Derek men up and ask Rayna out on a date. So they start a really sensual relationship in which Derek as the more dominant partner is testing Rayna's limits and is getting to know of her and sees her as the one. There is just one thing Rayna doesn't like cops and he has a daughter. The story is really more erotic but with great likable characters. We see that they have both a lot of baggage from the past, especially Rayna. And the fear is the main factor that they have to overcome to be happy. I would like to see Tish an Jeff story in the future.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
September 15, 2018
3.5 Stars
Avoiding the Badge by Dorothy F. Shaw is book One in the Arizona K9 Series. This is the story of Rayna Michaels and Derek Hansen.
Derek is a cop who his partner is a K9 dog called Axie who he cares for. When Axie gets hurt doing one of their jobs, Derek takes the dog the veterinarian...who is Rayna. Derek is immediately attracted to Rayna but doesn't come out an ask her for a date. What Derek does do is keep bring Axie back to her office where he slowly works up the nerve to ask. Rayna doesn't want to get involved with a cop but the attraction to Derek is burning to hot. But they both have secrets that might make a true relationship hard for them both.
Hope to read stories bye the secondary characters soon.
Avoiding the Badge by Dorothy F. Shaw is book One in the Arizona K9 Series. This is the story of Rayna Michaels and Derek Hansen.
Derek is a cop who his partner is a K9 dog called Axie who he cares for. When Axie gets hurt doing one of their jobs, Derek takes the dog the veterinarian...who is Rayna. Derek is immediately attracted to Rayna but doesn't come out an ask her for a date. What Derek does do is keep bring Axie back to her office where he slowly works up the nerve to ask. Rayna doesn't want to get involved with a cop but the attraction to Derek is burning to hot. But they both have secrets that might make a true relationship hard for them both.
Hope to read stories bye the secondary characters soon.
July 23, 2018
The title of the book intrigued me, so I decided to give the book a try.
For me , it was just an ok book. Possibly because I am an avid reader and was expecting more from the story.
It centers around Rayna Michaels , a veterinarian who has pledged never to get involved with a cop, and K-9 officer Derek Hansen, who is attracted to her and wants a relationship. After months of unnecessary visits to her office for check ups for his K-9 dog, Axel, they finally have a date.
The plot and the characters were not that developed, and I didn’t feel the plot had much substance.
Maybe future books will be better.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
For me , it was just an ok book. Possibly because I am an avid reader and was expecting more from the story.
It centers around Rayna Michaels , a veterinarian who has pledged never to get involved with a cop, and K-9 officer Derek Hansen, who is attracted to her and wants a relationship. After months of unnecessary visits to her office for check ups for his K-9 dog, Axel, they finally have a date.
The plot and the characters were not that developed, and I didn’t feel the plot had much substance.
Maybe future books will be better.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 17, 2018
This was a wonderful story but I must say there is probable some people that would find triggers in it. Derek is the absolute dominating alpha and Rayna didn't know that's what she wanted until she got it. Did I think that Rayna was sabotaging this relationship you bet she seemed to want and not want Derek t the same time Axle to me was the one to steal the show and I am hoping we will get Jeff and Tish's story I think they could be a fun couple
Overall this was a fun story with plenty of hot moments that was thoroughly entertaining
I was given a copy of this book but this i true and honest review
Overall this was a fun story with plenty of hot moments that was thoroughly entertaining
I was given a copy of this book but this i true and honest review
August 19, 2018
I won this book through a Goodreads contest and in return I promised my honest review.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it's also the first book in this trilogy. It's a stand alone book with characters that are lacking depth IMO, a plot that had me shaking my head quite often just for someone to tell the truth and way too much BDSM that had me skipping over pages just to get to the story. I almost DNF this book, but the ending (HEA) saved it for me which is why it's rated 3 stars. The cover is awesome and the epilogue is what drew me to this book. I was disappointed but I do give second chances.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it's also the first book in this trilogy. It's a stand alone book with characters that are lacking depth IMO, a plot that had me shaking my head quite often just for someone to tell the truth and way too much BDSM that had me skipping over pages just to get to the story. I almost DNF this book, but the ending (HEA) saved it for me which is why it's rated 3 stars. The cover is awesome and the epilogue is what drew me to this book. I was disappointed but I do give second chances.
November 16, 2020
WOW WOW WOW WOW!!!!! Dorothy F. Shaw has a great series in the Australia K-9 series. Ms. Shaw captures you on the first page and brings you in to play the part of all the Characters. She pulls you from meeting 6 months ago to coming in every week just so a current handsome K-9 office could to talk to the beautiful vet doctor. And she keeps you there from the first kiss through all the heavy and hot love making to what may be a betrayal of trust to pleading to explain to stubbornness to all out panicking to find out both K-9 Officer and K-9 Partner wounded to make you realize how much you and him love each other, to a HAPPY EVER AFTER life together.
August 31, 2018
K-9 cop and a veterinarian is one of my favorite tropes. Unfortunately this story just didn’t do it for me. It was sexy, lots of dirty talk and light BDSM, but the basic story was empty for me. Rayna and Derek each have secrets they’re hiding, but are so attracted to each other they keep them hidden for fear of ruining their relationship. Big mistake. There was really no kick to the story until about 80-90% in, and by then I was not sure if I liked either character anymore!
Thank you to Lyrical Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this story.
Thank you to Lyrical Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this story.
September 4, 2018
This is the first book that I have read by this author but, it definitely won't be the last. This book has a great storyline, Wonderful characters and a loveable dog named Axle. Megan is a veterinarian who spends all of her time at her clinic. Derek is a Cop with a dog as his partner. Derek meets Megan when he takes Axle to her clinic. They ate both attracted to each other but, she swore that she would never date a cop. They chemistry is off the charts hot. This is a steamy, hot, emotional story and I would definitely recommend it.
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