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The Veterans of Valhalla have faced everything together; training, fighting, loss, and sometimes even death. They live together as the family they are, heal together, and work together. But, when the one woman comes along for each of them, they begin to change in ways that cause a ripple effect that will build those family ties or break them. And, if they let it, will turn them from damaged warriors to men in love.

If you like Romantic Suspense with passionate, protective, former military heroes who like to take charge, steamy romance, and happily ever after, this series is for you.

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 19, 2023

80 people are currently reading
39 people want to read

About the author

R.J. Gray

53 books624 followers
RJ Gray is a USA TODAY bestselling author of Explosively Hot Romance. She is also an international bestseller. Residing on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu with her husband, two young sons and their rescue pup, RJ lives an active life. When not writing, her hobbies include whipping up delicious meals, capturing life's beauty with her camera and attending her children's multiple sporting events. Hobbies she shares freely about in her FB Group Gray's Bibliophiles.

Having spent the past fifteen years married to an active duty military bomb technician, and as a veteran herself, RJ has a passion for military and veteran causes. You will find these themes in many of her books.

You can find out more about RJ Gray on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRJGray

Feel free to contact her: AuthorRJGray@gmail.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
6,972 reviews175 followers
June 17, 2023
FRIENDS WITH SPANKING BENEFITS

The story is the ninth book in the Veterans of Valhalla series and will mainly focus on two characters, Detective Dax Allard and Therapist Paisley Hall. They will have a unique relationship where she will confess her misdeeds and he will spank her. But what happens when during a session, Paisley slips and calls Dax ‘Daddy?’

The story is a mystery with romantic suspense, life-and-death danger, and a change in the relationship between Dax and Paisley. Someone evil has come to Grand Ridge and has killed a female jogger—it has happened in other areas, but now it has struck their county. But this time, the perp breaks their normal MO of murder and leaving because they find another female jogger, killed the same way. This will put the residents, and the men of Valhalla on alert.

I enjoyed the story and characters. I’ll keep this short because I hate when someone gives away the plot. This story was intense—and while a large portion of the story revolves around Dax and the police trying to discover who the serial killer is—it is also a story of new beginnings for Dax and Paisley will they expand their DD/lg relationship.
Profile Image for Marybeth.
2,289 reviews21 followers
June 16, 2023
I enjoyed this next book in the Veterans of Valhalla series. Dax and Paisley go from a friends with discipline benefits to a DD/lg relationship. I liked that they both took the time to know one another and be comfortable before they moved on. Of course, their new dynamic starts at the same time as Dax starts investigating multiple murders.

This is a nice story about a woman who knows what she needs and a man who wants to be everything to her.

I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
1,040 reviews
June 17, 2023
I really enjoyed seeing Dax get his HEA with Paisley. They were really cute together and I loved how they completed each other. The serial killer plot was interesting and even though I guessed who the killer was once they were introduced; I did not figure out the way they were doing it until later. As always, the strong group of friends at Valhalla are included in the story and that just makes it better.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
755 reviews6 followers
June 18, 2023
Wow what a wonderful fast paced read. Dax and Paisly’s story is a real page turner. They start out as friends with some strange benefits. As their relationship grows they realize they both want more. When a serial killer comes a calling all bets are off as Dax rushes to solve the murders and keep Paisly safe. How it all works out is a really sweet read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
240 reviews
June 28, 2023
Dax and Paisley take romance to the next level in this wonderful story. They have the perfect relationship,they want to take it to the next level they just don't know how. I loved how the author wrote About trying to figure out their new relationship And then suddenly throws in a serial killer.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sandy Kelly.
1,253 reviews12 followers
April 14, 2024
This is book 9 in the Veterans of Valhalla series and it can absolutely be read as a standalone, although I do recommend the other books as well. The Veterans of Valhalla have faced everything together; training, fighting, loss, and sometimes even death. They live together as the family they are, heal together, and work together. But, when the one woman comes along for each of them, they begin to change in ways that cause a ripple effect that will build those family ties or break them. And, if they let it, will turn them from damaged warriors to men in love.

Dax and Paisley have a friends with benefits type of relationship. But she slips and calls him something that changes the dynamic of their relationship. Not only does it force them to figure out if a DD/lg relationship is for them, but when a serial killer is on the loose and targeting Paisley-it forces them to figure out if they have what it takes to be together for good as well. I enjoyed most of this book although I had a hard time believing that it took Dax as long as it did to figure out who the bad guy was. Other than that, I really enjoyed this one!
335 reviews2 followers
June 29, 2023
A great mix of sexy and suspense

Paisley and Dax have been in the background of a couple books and I'm so glad they finally got their HEA! Paisley is strong and independent but still craves a daddy Dom! Dax is the perfect match for her, bossy and firm but kind and caring! The mystery of the serial killer adds a great plot to their relationship.
Profile Image for Jeannette.
1,402 reviews
March 28, 2024
Paisley and Dax

This is a very good, well written, military romance. There is suspense, action, and mystery. The characters are well developed, interesting, and lovable. Paisley is a therapist and a Little. Dax is a detective and a Daddy Dom. Read for the excitement and romance.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
850 reviews
June 10, 2024
Dax & Paisley

RJ Gray, this Dax: A Military Daddy Romance (Veterans of Valhalla Book 9) had me immersed until the very end. Heart racing and hoping all would be okay. On to Book 10!!
Profile Image for Julie.
1,640 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2024
another good one

Just like real life, the author again shows us that not every dynamic is the same. And the way we get there is our own journey. But at least here we know there will be an HEA!
499 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2023
love the series

This is by far one of the best series I’ve read. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. The characters are so wonderful and amazing
1,861 reviews9 followers
October 16, 2023
Understand!

Dax: WOW! Very intense story! I really enjoyed their story it was different to the other ones in the series. It wad great writing and characters!
Profile Image for RomanceReader24.
20 reviews
June 19, 2023
A Captivating Blend of Love, Thrills, and Unforgettable Chemistry

Prepare to be swept off your feet and enthralled by the captivating world of "Dax," a sensational romantic DDLG military suspense novel that seamlessly combines heart-stopping thrills with a passionate love story.

With a serial killer targetting joggers, this book takes readers on an exhilarating journey, where friends with benefits evolve into an intense DDLG relationship between Dax, the local detective, and Paisley, a compassionate therapist.

From the very first page, the author skillfully establishes intrigue that keeps you eagerly turning the pages, what will happen between Paisley and Dax when she calls him Daddy, breaking their agreement?

With Dax desperate to uncover the truth behind the string of gruesome murders, will he have time to develop a relationship with her?

But it's not just the suspense that makes "Dax" a standout novel—it's the deep emotional connection and sizzling chemistry between Dax and Paisley that truly sets it apart. The evolution of their relationship, from friends with benefits to a committed DDLG, is expertly woven into the fabric of the story, providing an incredibly satisfying and heartfelt romance that will leave you breathless.

This reader only wishes the author would expand her books. They are good at this length, but they would be great even longer. She has the potential to develop the characters more deeply. Ms. Gray is an excellent wordsmith. I'd be willing to wait for longer books knowing they would be worth the wait.

The characters in "Dax" are vibrant and utterly relatable. Dax, with his unwavering determination and protective instincts, will steal your heart, while Paisley's intelligence, compassion, and unwavering support make her a formidable and endearing heroine. Their interactions are filled with genuine emotions, raw vulnerability, and electrifying passion, making their love story all the more captivating.

What makes this novel truly exceptional is the seamless blend of suspense and DDLG romance. The author's attention to detail adds authenticity and intensity to the narrative. Her characters are always relatable and you want to become friends with them. I'd like to move to Colorado and onto Valhalla.

The twists (no spoilers!) kept me guessing until the very end, while the tender moments shared by Dax and Paisley will make your heart soar.

Additionally, the author's incorporation of Paisley's role as a therapist adds an extra layer of depth to the story. I enjoyed seeing her with her patients. Again, wish it was longer.

In conclusion, "Dax" is a tour de force in romantic military suspense. With its intoxicating blend of heart-stopping thrills, emotional depth, and sizzling DDLG romance, it delivers an unforgettable reading experience.

If you love Daddy books and are seeking a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat while simultaneously melting your heart, "Dax" is an absolute must-read.


Trigger Warning: This novel contains mature DDLG themes
3,159 reviews
June 16, 2023
A riveting and enjoyable read that I have thoroughly enjoyed, wonderful scenario and characters

Paisley is known for the way in which she has always ensured that she always puts her business before anything else, she is a hard and diligent worker that always puts work above all else and I trust that you will also enjoy the read as much as myself.

As a homicide detective he follows the evidence that has been put before him and he is determined that he see this crime sorted and the individuals responsible apprehended and they be charged and dealt with accordingly.

He is a hard-working detective that has earned a highly successful return on those crimes that he has been asked to follow and charge through the appropriate channels, he is very used to fighting for everything that comes through his office and ends on his desk, he is diligent in his enquiries and this is what factors have earned him such an impressive work ethic.

He is used to fighting for what he wants and he is determined that he will see his Paisley and will see and hear her refer to himself in the title he would most wish to hear from her lips and that is “Daddy”. I will not let anything including a threatening serial killer with her in his sight gain sight of Paisley, he will keep her safe no matter what it should take.

I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,519 reviews
June 23, 2023
Dax lives at Valhalla and is a detective. He is a daddy dominant and has been helping Paisley who is a little. Once a week she tells him on her transgressions and is punished. But after six months of this and going to the Citadel for scenes, they have developed feelings for each other. Things change. In this installment of the Veterans of Valhalla, Dax is dealing with a serial killer who is killing women joggers. Paisley likes to jog by herself, which fits the profile of the serial killer.

The Valhalla series and this book has taught me that BDSM is a unique lifestyle and nothing to be ashamed of, although, I’m not into that scene. I do enjoy the stories as it is more than just BDSM. There are real stories of connection, trust and falling in love in these books. Do I think I’d do anything in this series- NO. However, I like how the Veterans of Valhalla fall in love and find the women who complete them. It also shows that the subs and ‘little girl’ sides to the women have the power in the relationship. It is all about trust. Aren’t all relationships about that? Be built on that? They should be.

This series is a must read if you don’t know much about BDSM. It will get rid of some of the misconceptions. But not everyone is the same as those in the books. I really loved this book, because I’ve always loved Dax since he was introduced.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Charlene Alana  Henderson .
1,322 reviews33 followers
June 24, 2023
The story is the 9th book in the Veterans of Valhalla series, it mainly focuses on 2 of the characters, Detective Dax Allard and Therapist Paisley Hall❤️💙

Paisley is known for the way in which she has always ensured that she always puts her business before anything else, she is a hard worker that always puts work above everything👩🏼‍⚕️

Dax is a homicide detective, he follows the evidence that has been put before him and he is determined that he see this crime sorted and the individuals responsible apprehended and they be charged and dealt with accordingly🙂

He is a hard-working detective that has earned a highly successful return on those crimes that he has been asked to follow and charge through the appropriate channels.👮🏽

what a wonderful fast paced read. Dax and Paisley's story is a real page turner. They start out as friends with some strange benefits. As their relationship grows they realize they both want more. When a serial killer comes a calling all bets are off as Dax rushes to solve the murders and keep Paisley safe. How it all works out is a really sweet read!.💕

A riveting and enjoyable read that I have thoroughly enjoyed, wonderful characters💐

I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.📚

I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the rest of this series keep up the great writing.😁
Profile Image for Debbie Orazi.
1,755 reviews26 followers
June 27, 2023
This was a Daddy/little romantic suspense.

This is my favorite book by the author so far. The suspense was extremely well down and I couldn't put the book down. Highly recommend!

Paisley Hall is a therapist, a runner and a little.

Dax Allard is a detective and a Daddy.

They have had a friends with spanking benefits relationship. Initially they met one a week in the Dungeon of the Citadel to negotiate a scene. After six months they moved their sessions to Dax's house their friends had been pressuring them to start a dating relationship. After slipping up and calling him Daddy during a scene Paisley panics and tries to avoid Dax. He sits her down and talks to her about turning their relationship into a real Daddy/little relationship and she agrees. Meanwhile Dax is one of the investigators looking into a serial killer case involving female runners. He wants Paisley about not running alone especially after she tells him about a woman she met while running. The case comes to a breathtaking conclusion and they get their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
3,770 reviews63 followers
June 20, 2023
With every book in this series, I always say I want to be that heroine because of the guy she gets. No different here. I loved Dax and Paisley's story so much. They start out as friends with a spanking benefit but without telling the each other, they both want more. Dax is a detective who is trying to solve crimes with a serial k!ller on the loose who is targeting women who are jogging alone. Paisley is a jogger who runs to clear her mind after a hard day at work. Both are in the lifestyle with Dax as a Daddy and Paisley as a Little. I'm telling y'all, when these two finally get their act straightened out, it's HOT!!! And when Paisley is suddenly the target, Dax will do whatever it takes to keep his little girl safe. The story is so good and so easy to read and keep up with. I loved getting to see previous characters and see how they are all getting along at this point and when Paisley is in immediate danger, the gang comes together to find and help her. So good, I want to see more of these two as they've have touched my heart!!!
Profile Image for Melanie Marnell.
4,226 reviews34 followers
September 3, 2023
Dax Allard is a Daddy from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet. Paisley Hall is equally entrencyed in her submissive little. They've had an arrangement for six months, a rather sterile one based oh her need for weekly discipline. She confesses her weekly transgressions and he administrators a maintenance spanking so to speak. Yes, it's a neat and tidy arrangement pretty much devoid of romantic entanglements. At the time they made it neither one of them was in a place in their lives for anything more. Dax, with the urging of a Valhalla brother, decides all bets are off. He wants, no needs, Paisley to be his in every way possible. Truth be told, she's ready too. There is a dark cloud on their otherwise happy horizon though. Dax is working a serial murder case in which the suspect is escalating. The denizens of Grand Ridge as well as Valhalla are on edge as Dax and his partner work feverishly to capture the killer. It takes a new piece of the puzzle falling in place as well as a hunch to finally ties things up but not before a near tragedy is averted.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
June 24, 2023
I loved seeing Dax and Paisley formalize their casual partnership into a real emotional relationship. I enjoyed watching as they negotiated how to turn their dynamic from just play into something that both of them were invested in. The serial killer thread of the story added even more drama and tension to their bond. The villain wasn’t a big surprise, but the motive and methods certainly were. However, for such an incredibly smart and accomplished person, Paisley succumbs to one of my least enjoyable themes in romantic suspense by being entirely too cavalier and utterly blasé about her own personal safety, and that deeply frustrated me. On the other hand, it gave them an incredible moment for the declaration of their feelings. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next for Valhalla.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
Profile Image for Paula.
1,962 reviews6 followers
June 25, 2023
I enjoyed reading Dax . This story is Suspenseful and intriguing and a bit kinky .
Detective Dax Allard and Paisley Hall have and arrangement . Paisley is a little and Dax is a daddy dom and once a week she comes to Dax for her weekly spanking . She finds it an emotional release and clears her conscience. Neither wanted a relationship when they agreed to this . Paisley had just moved to the Grand Ridge and opened her therapy practice and Dax just ended a bad relationship . But in the last six months they have developed feelings for each other . Paisley afraid to ruin what they have tries to keep Dax from knowing she loves him . When a serial killer comes to town Dax steps up and makes Paisley his little . As Dax and his team put the pieces together to catch the killer Paisley is caught in the killers twisted sight . I highly recommend taking the time to read .
Profile Image for Paula.
1,962 reviews6 followers
June 25, 2023
I enjoyed reading Dax . This story is Suspenseful and intriguing and a bit kinky .
Detective Dax Allard and Paisley Hall have and arrangement . Paisley is a little and Dax is a daddy dom and once a week she comes to Dax for her weekly spanking . She finds it an emotional release and clears her conscience. Neither wanted a relationship when they agreed to this . Paisley had just moved to the Grand Ridge and opened her therapy practice and Dax just ended a bad relationship . But in the last six months they have developed feelings for each other . Paisley afraid to ruin what they have tries to keep Dax from knowing she loves him . When a serial killer comes to town Dax steps up and makes Paisley his little . As Dax and his team put the pieces together to catch the killer Paisley is caught in the killers twisted sight . I highly recommend taking the time to read .
18 reviews
July 1, 2023
Dax, by RJ Gray, is book 9 in her Veterans of Valhalla series. Wanting some background, I checked out more of the series’ books. To my surprise, I found her on my TBR list! While I could not read the previous books at this time, after reading Dax and Paisley’s story, it is a sure bet that I will be reading books 1-8 and rereading book 9 after learning about all the people mentioned in this book.

The other reviewers have given a very good synopsis of the mystery (but not the serial killer’s identity; you will have to read the book and, boy, is it a doozy) and developing relationship of the couple, and I concur with all positive reviews. Now, I look forward to acquainting myself with the Veterans of Valhalla, books 1-8.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amy Reads Romance.
993 reviews11 followers
July 4, 2023
Dax is a police detective, and a Daddy. He thinks he's found his Little girl, but they agreed months ago to keep their relationship platonic. Paisley is a therapist on Valhalla Ranch, as well as a Little girl. She, too, has caught feelings, and when Dax asks her to take their friendship to the next level, she agrees. Things are going really well until danger creeps into their small Colorado town. Will Dax figure it out in time to save Paisley?

This whole series is excellent, and this book particularly so. Not only have Dax and Paisley's friends been rooting for their romance, so have I! The characters are well written and likable. With the author's intimate knowledge of military and veteran life, a sense of realism threads through the stories. This book is absolutely worth the one click!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Fearless_BookBabe.
52 reviews
June 27, 2023
Dax and Paisley’s story is book nine in the Veterans of Valhalla series.
Dax Allard is a Detective and Paisley Hall Therapist. They are friends with discipline benefits but end up in a DDLG relationship. Dax is trying to solve crimes with a serial killer on the loose who is targeting women that jog alone and Paisley is a jogger that will end up being the killers next target. Dax will do anything to keep his little girl safe. You will see characters from previous stories in this one but while this is a complete stand alone I suggest reading them in order.
This book is a page turner with some suspense, lots of spice and a HEA. Well worth the read.
I received a ARC for my honest opinion and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lisa H.
764 reviews5 followers
June 30, 2023
I have followed the Valhalla series since it was first written and Dax was first brought into the scene. He was the first one to show such soft compassion. I've been waiting for his story.

I thought this has the best involved storyline with the action. It was more concentrated on that then to some degree the connection between him and Paisley.

They got to be friends over the last six months as they had a semi professional relationship. They really developed such a deep connection. This was one of the softer couples to grace our pages, but certainly had their share of passion and love.

This series has SO much to offer. It'd truly be a crime if you denied yourself one of the best series you are ever gonna read!! RJ......we love you. NEVER stop writing!!.
Profile Image for Trish.
1,213 reviews34 followers
June 20, 2023
Quick and fun read!

Dax is book nine of the Veterans of Valhalla series of interconnected standalones. I absolutely love this series and devoured this book in a few hours! Dax is a detective working on a serial killer case and is also part of the “inner circle” at Valhalla. Paisley is a new therapist in Valhalla and is a spunky Little and submissive. I really enjoyed the suspense in this story and it had my heart rate going several time. I loved the friends to lovers aspect and I could feel the connection between Paisley and Dax. I also enjoyed getting a little more of the characters from past books in this series. I can’t wait for more of this world!
Profile Image for Sue.
422 reviews4 followers
June 19, 2023
Another great addition to the series. As always I easily find myself falling in love with the characters, and Dax and Paisley bring the perfect blend of sweetness and romance that this author imbues in each of her stories, along with a splash of suspense for flavoring. This book has all the feels and made me melt as I watched the relationship between Dax and Paisley grow from a self-imposed simmer to where we all wanted them to be to each other as they take their place with the other beloved couples. All I can say is I’m so happy there are more couples to come in the Valhalla series as each of these heroes deserves a little of their own to protect and love.
464 reviews
June 20, 2023
I absolutely howled at some of the sassy banter, personality plus!

Paisley comes over as a very accomplished, confident professional, who could really benefit from a Daddy to help her work on her outstanding issues. I enjoy the strong female characters that are still able to relax into a relationship with a dominant significant other.

I was thrilled to discover a new mystery was highlighted for Daddy Dax to sink his teeth into, displaying his brilliant sleuthing techniques and how tight-knit and supportive the Valhalla community is.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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