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Conduct #2
Bad Behavior
Grant Madsen's got issues. He's still battling his Mafia family and doing everything possible to keep his loved ones safe. With the cruising season coming to an end, he has to find another job soon or he'll rejoin his father in prison. And he's trying to convince his rebellious teenage nephew to stay away from their criminal relatives (you can imagine how that's going). But worst of all, Grant's parole officer has mandated that he attend therapy. The only saving grace is that they're couples sessions with his girlfriend, Sophie Taylor, a fellow parolee who's struggling with a few issues of her own. Sophie desperately hopes her past with Grant's brother won't destroy her future with him. There's a sleazy professor at work who revels in sexually harassing women in the psychology department. And her father still hates Grant. Their psychologist has his work cut out for him. When Grant's ruthless father hints at a plot to get out of prison, Grant must use everything he's learned in therapy and beyond to try to stop him. It's a race against time -- and a race to rescue Sophie from the Mafia's clutches once again. But this time McSailor and Bonnie refuse to play victims. This time the cuffs are coming off.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2011
819 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Lane
16 books1,432 followersPsychologist/author (psycho author) Jennifer Lane invites you to her world of sports romance and suspense with a psychological twist!
Jen fell in love with sports at a young age and competed in swimming and volleyball in college. She went on to become the Honda Award Winner for Division III Athlete of the Year. She still gets high from the smell of chlorine and the satisfaction of smashing a beautiful volleyball set.
In Jen’s upcoming tenth novel, Low Water, a swim coach and his psychologist team up to heal from trauma. Rivals features a romance between coaches from rival universities, Ohio State and Michigan. Her Blocked trilogy also explores the transformation from hate to love. One of Jen’s favorite themes is finding common ground.
A romantic suspense trilogy (The Conduct Series) and a psychological thriller (Twin Sacrifice) complete Jen’s collection of novels. For shorter reads, check out sports romance short stories Swim Recruit and Behind the Catcher’s Mask.
She calls South Carolina home and shares writing space with her two trusted feline collaborators: Tuxedo and Tessa. Whether writing or reading, Jen loves stories that make her laugh and cry.
Jen fell in love with sports at a young age and competed in swimming and volleyball in college. She went on to become the Honda Award Winner for Division III Athlete of the Year. She still gets high from the smell of chlorine and the satisfaction of smashing a beautiful volleyball set.
In Jen’s upcoming tenth novel, Low Water, a swim coach and his psychologist team up to heal from trauma. Rivals features a romance between coaches from rival universities, Ohio State and Michigan. Her Blocked trilogy also explores the transformation from hate to love. One of Jen’s favorite themes is finding common ground.
A romantic suspense trilogy (The Conduct Series) and a psychological thriller (Twin Sacrifice) complete Jen’s collection of novels. For shorter reads, check out sports romance short stories Swim Recruit and Behind the Catcher’s Mask.
She calls South Carolina home and shares writing space with her two trusted feline collaborators: Tuxedo and Tessa. Whether writing or reading, Jen loves stories that make her laugh and cry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 29, 2011
UPDATE: I love this series! I'm sorry, that's all I can say for lack of better words. I just love this series. I have come back and given it five stars because I have not been able to stop thinking about it. Any book/series that can do that to me deserves all the gold!
March 12, 2011
This sequel to Good Behavior was amazing. This book takes the reader on the journey of two people (Sexy McSailor Grant and his Bonnie Lass who gets to ride the McSailor Ship Sophie) ended in the first book. They start off two people who have gone through so much and who are in love with each other but this book takes it that much farther. You get to examine, feel and experience what are the sum of the parts of these two people whose marks of the past taint their present and can destory their future. They are required to go to therapy sessions as a condition of their parole which they make as couple therapy which Grant is not too thrilled about but with the threat of going back to prison there is no other option. But with the issues from the first book added to the scars that were inflicted from their pasts you share in their journey to self exploration and rediscovery in understanding what helped them get to the place that they are and they way they have dealt with things so far.
This book doesnt hold back on the intensity or heartache when these two people as they, with the aid of Dr. hunter, find out more about themselves and their pasts which have some similairites but in other ways vastly different. Their journey together starts off shakey and down right painful nearly destroying themselves from what they find and how they handle the pain but they are determined to stay the course. They have bumps in the road and nothing is ever simple with this couple but something worth it is never easy. This book is a fabulous, intricate, sexy and another suspenseful story with twists and turns that you never expect. You get to see what makes these people tick and how the sum of their battered parts lead them down their paths to probation and how it affected every part of their lives. You come to see the beauty of these characters and even though the Mafia never can ever leave these two alone you see why they should be together and you fight right along with them to stay together.
Long Live the McSalior Lovin Boat Tours!! I cant wait for book 3!!!!!
This book doesnt hold back on the intensity or heartache when these two people as they, with the aid of Dr. hunter, find out more about themselves and their pasts which have some similairites but in other ways vastly different. Their journey together starts off shakey and down right painful nearly destroying themselves from what they find and how they handle the pain but they are determined to stay the course. They have bumps in the road and nothing is ever simple with this couple but something worth it is never easy. This book is a fabulous, intricate, sexy and another suspenseful story with twists and turns that you never expect. You get to see what makes these people tick and how the sum of their battered parts lead them down their paths to probation and how it affected every part of their lives. You come to see the beauty of these characters and even though the Mafia never can ever leave these two alone you see why they should be together and you fight right along with them to stay together.
Long Live the McSalior Lovin Boat Tours!! I cant wait for book 3!!!!!
March 26, 2011
This sequel does NOT disappoint! Bad Behavior takes off right where With Good Behavior ended: Grant and Sophie are sharing an apartment and Sophie’s big mouth has landed them in couple’s counseling as a condition of their parole. It’s the aftermath of the dramatic climax of With Good Behavior and Grant and Sophie still have a lot to learn about each other – and themselves.
We get to know them a little deeper (by being a fly on the wall during their therapy sessions); their strengths and weaknesses. Two essentially good people with (understandable) imperfections, determined to maintain a healthy relationship with each other despite the past and the effect that it’s had on each of them. It’s gratifying to watch the individuals, and couple, grow during the course of the book.
There are familiar faces (like Ben, Rog, Jerry, Marilyn, Joe, Will, Enzo, Angelo, “Tank”, “Meat”, Kirsten and Hunter); new jobs/careers; interesting new characters and storylines ..…and insidious people from the past who just won’t let go!
Bad Behavior has some startling twists and turns that I did NOT see coming! (and I’m usually pretty good at predicting these things!) As in With Good Behavior, Jennifer Lane’s perceptive and entertaining writing style morphs into some pulse-racing action as the book draws to a close.
I loved the ending! The storylines are satisfyingly resolved, yet it’s also clear that Jennifer Lane has something clever up her sleeve for the third installment of The Conduct Series, “On Best Behavior”. (see the extract of On Best Behavior at the end of this book :)
5 stars!
We get to know them a little deeper (by being a fly on the wall during their therapy sessions); their strengths and weaknesses. Two essentially good people with (understandable) imperfections, determined to maintain a healthy relationship with each other despite the past and the effect that it’s had on each of them. It’s gratifying to watch the individuals, and couple, grow during the course of the book.
There are familiar faces (like Ben, Rog, Jerry, Marilyn, Joe, Will, Enzo, Angelo, “Tank”, “Meat”, Kirsten and Hunter); new jobs/careers; interesting new characters and storylines ..…and insidious people from the past who just won’t let go!
Bad Behavior has some startling twists and turns that I did NOT see coming! (and I’m usually pretty good at predicting these things!) As in With Good Behavior, Jennifer Lane’s perceptive and entertaining writing style morphs into some pulse-racing action as the book draws to a close.
I loved the ending! The storylines are satisfyingly resolved, yet it’s also clear that Jennifer Lane has something clever up her sleeve for the third installment of The Conduct Series, “On Best Behavior”. (see the extract of On Best Behavior at the end of this book :)
5 stars!
December 5, 2015
I have loved this book so much I am almost speechless, and I had to take a break to collect my thoughts about it before doing a review. It has so much excellent psychology in it, that it was a complete delight to read. I have been riveted and intrigued about the characters' journey from the fist page and the conclusion was great.
I have read countless "case studies" books from prominent psychotherapists, and this is often a favourite way of expanding my understanding of a particular psychotherapeutic model that I may not necessarily have the chance of practising myself often. This is typically done by the author using "composites" of several different real clients in order to illustrate different therapeutic dilemmas, techniques, or universally relevant or interesting life struggles. But this is the very first time that I had the enormous pleasure to read about detailed therapy encounters in a fiction book, with a fictional therapist, and fictional clients. I think that the format of the book is specifically inspired and astute: every other chapter in the book happens in the therapy room with Grant and Sophie's talking to their therapist, Dr Hunter. This way, the other chapters allow us a glimpse of the couple's interaction with the world at large, which moves the story along, and the "therapy" chapters present the couple's increasing disclosure (and therefore increasing intimacy) with each other. The character growth is portrayed in this way beautifully -albeit often painfully.
There have been so many moments portraying difficult emotions in the book, and doing it so well, so skilfully and sympathetically, that I've found myself reading while holding my breath on occasion, and completely overcome with empathy for the characters. This to me, is the yardstick of excellent fiction, and the author has gifted us with an excellent book.
I have loved Dr Hunter Hayes all throughout his therapy sessions with Grant and Sophie (and by the way, isn't that an awesome name or what? HH!). What a brilliant, insightful and kind man. He has been portrayed as self-reflective and compassionate, but also at times, struggling with his own issues, which did remind me of "The Myth of the Untroubled Therapist", by Marie Adams.
Hunter is not perfect by any means, and I found myself quite horrified when he makes a gross assumption about Grant and Sophie (as they appeared dishevelled on their last session and with Grant sporting bandaged wrists). I thought that was quite a careless remark, but it was also welcome and inspirational (not sure if it was intentionally done by the author or not). It showed that Hunter is no superman, which is reassuring. He is just a very good therapist, but still human, and therefore flawed, just like all of us. It is impossible to be on your 100% "best therapist ever" mode all the time. And the plot twist of having him experiencing a crush on Grant was priceless. Just priceless.
I always thought that the middle book in a trilogy must be really hard to write: suspense and interest have to be maintained, the character's journey must continue to be interesting to follow and we have to still care about them as fully formed human beings. In this way, Grant and Sophie don't disappoint. In fact, Jennifer Lane has made them even more likeable and complex. Oh, my! How they both struggle to become better people!
The author has also done a fantastic job portraying therapists's dilemmas. Even though this is not the theme of the book, and I am sure that many readers might have been oblivious to the significance of this aspect, reading about Dr. Hayes's concerns about ethical boundaries has exponentially increased my enjoyment of the book. A number of typical and serious dilemmas in therapy are presented: whether to take up a couple for therapy or not, if one of them had been seen previously in individual therapy; what to do to move on from the embarrassing situation of bumping into your clients in public; how to manage an unintentional breach of confidentiality (as when Sophie, through her previous knowledge of Logan knew a lot of things about Grant's childhood, and had told Hunter about it, but Grant might not have been ready to disclose); dealing with countertransference.....
All these issues have been discussed realistically and I have enjoyed reading about them tremendously. Grant and Sophie's interactions while sitting on Dr Hayes couch were beautifully written, hence a joy to read. Even at times, it feels like not only Hunter -but Sophie too!- are doing therapy on Grant (poor darling!) at the same time, which I imagine is unavoidable as once a therapist, always a therapist. But Sophie also had her own personal growth journey to travel, and she does accomplish this through her love of her BF.
Most enjoyable book. After so much intrigue and action, I wonder what the third book will add, but I am already quite intrigued and excited about therapy sessions with a cantankerous teenager. Dr Hayes is having his work cut out for him!
I have read countless "case studies" books from prominent psychotherapists, and this is often a favourite way of expanding my understanding of a particular psychotherapeutic model that I may not necessarily have the chance of practising myself often. This is typically done by the author using "composites" of several different real clients in order to illustrate different therapeutic dilemmas, techniques, or universally relevant or interesting life struggles. But this is the very first time that I had the enormous pleasure to read about detailed therapy encounters in a fiction book, with a fictional therapist, and fictional clients. I think that the format of the book is specifically inspired and astute: every other chapter in the book happens in the therapy room with Grant and Sophie's talking to their therapist, Dr Hunter. This way, the other chapters allow us a glimpse of the couple's interaction with the world at large, which moves the story along, and the "therapy" chapters present the couple's increasing disclosure (and therefore increasing intimacy) with each other. The character growth is portrayed in this way beautifully -albeit often painfully.
There have been so many moments portraying difficult emotions in the book, and doing it so well, so skilfully and sympathetically, that I've found myself reading while holding my breath on occasion, and completely overcome with empathy for the characters. This to me, is the yardstick of excellent fiction, and the author has gifted us with an excellent book.
I have loved Dr Hunter Hayes all throughout his therapy sessions with Grant and Sophie (and by the way, isn't that an awesome name or what? HH!). What a brilliant, insightful and kind man. He has been portrayed as self-reflective and compassionate, but also at times, struggling with his own issues, which did remind me of "The Myth of the Untroubled Therapist", by Marie Adams.
Hunter is not perfect by any means, and I found myself quite horrified when he makes a gross assumption about Grant and Sophie (as they appeared dishevelled on their last session and with Grant sporting bandaged wrists). I thought that was quite a careless remark, but it was also welcome and inspirational (not sure if it was intentionally done by the author or not). It showed that Hunter is no superman, which is reassuring. He is just a very good therapist, but still human, and therefore flawed, just like all of us. It is impossible to be on your 100% "best therapist ever" mode all the time. And the plot twist of having him experiencing a crush on Grant was priceless. Just priceless.
I always thought that the middle book in a trilogy must be really hard to write: suspense and interest have to be maintained, the character's journey must continue to be interesting to follow and we have to still care about them as fully formed human beings. In this way, Grant and Sophie don't disappoint. In fact, Jennifer Lane has made them even more likeable and complex. Oh, my! How they both struggle to become better people!
The author has also done a fantastic job portraying therapists's dilemmas. Even though this is not the theme of the book, and I am sure that many readers might have been oblivious to the significance of this aspect, reading about Dr. Hayes's concerns about ethical boundaries has exponentially increased my enjoyment of the book. A number of typical and serious dilemmas in therapy are presented: whether to take up a couple for therapy or not, if one of them had been seen previously in individual therapy; what to do to move on from the embarrassing situation of bumping into your clients in public; how to manage an unintentional breach of confidentiality (as when Sophie, through her previous knowledge of Logan knew a lot of things about Grant's childhood, and had told Hunter about it, but Grant might not have been ready to disclose); dealing with countertransference.....
All these issues have been discussed realistically and I have enjoyed reading about them tremendously. Grant and Sophie's interactions while sitting on Dr Hayes couch were beautifully written, hence a joy to read. Even at times, it feels like not only Hunter -but Sophie too!- are doing therapy on Grant (poor darling!) at the same time, which I imagine is unavoidable as once a therapist, always a therapist. But Sophie also had her own personal growth journey to travel, and she does accomplish this through her love of her BF.
Most enjoyable book. After so much intrigue and action, I wonder what the third book will add, but I am already quite intrigued and excited about therapy sessions with a cantankerous teenager. Dr Hayes is having his work cut out for him!
March 25, 2011
In this sequel to With Good Behavior, Jennifer Lane takes us on an emotional journey of discovery and strength with her two main characters that left me wanting more. She proved once again why I love her writing.
Picking up where WGB left off, Sophie and Grant continue their routines of going to work and parole meetings, only now they have to add couples counseling into the mix. This won't be an easy task for either of them, especially since they are still learning about each other.
Our favorite parolees both have to face things they never thought they'd have to again, including an old professor of Sophie's and Grant's incarcerated father, relying on each other to make it through. Even amidst the bad and difficult situations they have to face, good news is on the horizon, proving that they can make it together.
Jennifer Lane maintained a beautiful mixture of humor and angst as she delved deeper into Sophie and Grant's story. New nicknames, interesting twists, and difficult decisions are just a few of the things that Bonnie and McSailor have to face and that's not even the half of it.
I fell for the sweet and sensitive Grant in With Good Behavior, but in this continuation he is even more adorable and dream worthy. Who doesn't want a strong and sensitive former Navy Sailor?
There were a few sensitive scenes that took place, and this is not for younger readers, but it's a story that's intrigued me from the very beginning. And for one am already anxious for the conclusion to this series, On Best Behavior. Jen has done a fantastic job dealing with the complicated emotions one has to face when being released from prison and I looked forward to reading anything else from her in the future.
Picking up where WGB left off, Sophie and Grant continue their routines of going to work and parole meetings, only now they have to add couples counseling into the mix. This won't be an easy task for either of them, especially since they are still learning about each other.
Our favorite parolees both have to face things they never thought they'd have to again, including an old professor of Sophie's and Grant's incarcerated father, relying on each other to make it through. Even amidst the bad and difficult situations they have to face, good news is on the horizon, proving that they can make it together.
Jennifer Lane maintained a beautiful mixture of humor and angst as she delved deeper into Sophie and Grant's story. New nicknames, interesting twists, and difficult decisions are just a few of the things that Bonnie and McSailor have to face and that's not even the half of it.
I fell for the sweet and sensitive Grant in With Good Behavior, but in this continuation he is even more adorable and dream worthy. Who doesn't want a strong and sensitive former Navy Sailor?
There were a few sensitive scenes that took place, and this is not for younger readers, but it's a story that's intrigued me from the very beginning. And for one am already anxious for the conclusion to this series, On Best Behavior. Jen has done a fantastic job dealing with the complicated emotions one has to face when being released from prison and I looked forward to reading anything else from her in the future.
November 7, 2012
It's official: I LOVE THIS SERIES! And the sequel is even better!
I loved so many things about this series-- particularly the characters! Aside from our Bonnie and McSailor ;p, I love Rog, Joe, Jerry and Benny! They're hilarious! And I love Hunter!
But the one thing I love the MOST about this series is that the author nailed ALL the psychological stuff! Which of course doesn't surprise me because Jennifer Lane is also a psychologist! The entire time I was reading this book, I can't remember how many times I told myself that psychologists in training (like myself), should read the series! I learned a lot from all the therapy scenes and from Sophie! This series gives a really good insight to the practice. Not to mention, a good review in theories of personality! As I've said in one of my status updates, the "discussion" about Carl Rogers was so spot on and that alone already deserves 5 stars! [Although, I'm kinda biased because I have always preferred the humanistic approach in psychotherapy 0;) ] I would certainly recommend this series to my psych friends, and perhaps, --even though I don't think it's probable-- if ever I'd get to teach a Psychotherapy class, I would even recommend this to my students ;)
HOWEVER, let me assure you that even though you don't have a background in psychology, you will still enjoy this series! I found myself laughing so many times throughout the series and at times, I felt so moved that I found myself wiping my tears. Just read the other reviews if I'm not convincing enough.
I can't wait for the 3rd book! And, I'm glad that this one didn't end in a cliffhanger! Though I'm really looking forward to read more about Bonnie and McSailor 0=)
I loved so many things about this series-- particularly the characters! Aside from our Bonnie and McSailor ;p, I love Rog, Joe, Jerry and Benny! They're hilarious! And I love Hunter!
But the one thing I love the MOST about this series is that the author nailed ALL the psychological stuff! Which of course doesn't surprise me because Jennifer Lane is also a psychologist! The entire time I was reading this book, I can't remember how many times I told myself that psychologists in training (like myself), should read the series! I learned a lot from all the therapy scenes and from Sophie! This series gives a really good insight to the practice. Not to mention, a good review in theories of personality! As I've said in one of my status updates, the "discussion" about Carl Rogers was so spot on and that alone already deserves 5 stars! [Although, I'm kinda biased because I have always preferred the humanistic approach in psychotherapy 0;) ] I would certainly recommend this series to my psych friends, and perhaps, --even though I don't think it's probable-- if ever I'd get to teach a Psychotherapy class, I would even recommend this to my students ;)
HOWEVER, let me assure you that even though you don't have a background in psychology, you will still enjoy this series! I found myself laughing so many times throughout the series and at times, I felt so moved that I found myself wiping my tears. Just read the other reviews if I'm not convincing enough.
I can't wait for the 3rd book! And, I'm glad that this one didn't end in a cliffhanger! Though I'm really looking forward to read more about Bonnie and McSailor 0=)
June 5, 2014
I’m simply having the best time reading Jennifer Lane’s Conduct Series. My reading time is so limited and for me to commit to an entire series, it has got to be a great read.
I loved the first book in this series, With Good Behavior. The two main characters, Sophie Taylor (a psychologist) and Grant Madsen (a Navy man), are both paroled from prison. They’re two good people who should have never been in prison, but for two very different reasons, both courtesy of the Barbieri crime family (Grant’s family), they each served time. They meet in their parole officer’s waiting room and the story takes off from there.
Lane has done a terrific job in moving seamlessly from With Good Behavior to Bad Behavior. In this second novel, she writes just enough to remind the reader what they read in the first novel or to initiate a reader who hasn’t read the first book. As in most series, they’re better enjoyed if you read all books, but this book would be very readable on its own.
The characters are well defined, and the story is well paced and always on the move from one place to another. Something is always happening both with the emotional growth of the characters as well as the action. I’m quite interested in psychology, so I was not only pulled in by the story, but I learned more about the psychology via the two characters who are clinical practitioners.
And yes, I already have a copy of the last book in the series!
March 26, 2011
At last! A romance that continues AFTER the couple “falls in” love. Placing value on a HEALTHY relationship, no less! So many heroines these days completely lose themselves when they meet their “other half” – want to die if they part – as if that were “romantic”.
I didn’t realize how much I missed Grant, Sophie and the eclectic bunch of side characters until I delved into book number 2 of this series. Bad Behavior picks up where With Good Behavior left off and takes the reader on a journey / adventure of its own. The reader gains keener insights into the characters, in particular Grant, Sophie and Ben.
At times it was heartbreaking: the realities and effects of child abuse, long into the victim’s adult years. Yet the story also shows that the past CAN be overcome (so scratch what I said before, it’s the “survivor’s” adult years!) With Good Behavior reveals WHY Grant and Sophie are the people, in the position, that they are today, while Bad Behavior realistically portrays HOW they can change their ‘fate’ / shape a better future for themselves. It isn’t easy!
Bad Behavior is a highly entertaining novel. Unique storylines and a couple of intelligent twists kept my rapt attention. I love the very fluid way in which the story (and subplots) continue to unfold in this series. I am heavily invested in the characters. :)
I didn’t realize how much I missed Grant, Sophie and the eclectic bunch of side characters until I delved into book number 2 of this series. Bad Behavior picks up where With Good Behavior left off and takes the reader on a journey / adventure of its own. The reader gains keener insights into the characters, in particular Grant, Sophie and Ben.
At times it was heartbreaking: the realities and effects of child abuse, long into the victim’s adult years. Yet the story also shows that the past CAN be overcome (so scratch what I said before, it’s the “survivor’s” adult years!) With Good Behavior reveals WHY Grant and Sophie are the people, in the position, that they are today, while Bad Behavior realistically portrays HOW they can change their ‘fate’ / shape a better future for themselves. It isn’t easy!
Bad Behavior is a highly entertaining novel. Unique storylines and a couple of intelligent twists kept my rapt attention. I love the very fluid way in which the story (and subplots) continue to unfold in this series. I am heavily invested in the characters. :)
August 27, 2012
Sophie and Grant are the perfectly imperfect couple. Or is it imperfectly perfect? Either way, they are captivating together. They both come into the relationship slightly damaged and with lots of baggage. As they work through their issues in couple therapy, we see their vulnerabilities and their strengths.
I loved the tidbits of psychology sprinkled throughout. There are scenes here that many people, single and married, will be able to relate to on various levels.
While the heart of this story is romance, there is plenty of suspense and intrigue to keep things interesting. Grant's criminal family isn't about to let him go too easily.
Bad Behavior is the second book in Lane's CONduct series and picks up where With Good Behavior left off. While this one could be read as a stand-alone, I'd suggest starting with the first book in order to get a full understanding of Sophie and Grant's relationship.
I loved the tidbits of psychology sprinkled throughout. There are scenes here that many people, single and married, will be able to relate to on various levels.
While the heart of this story is romance, there is plenty of suspense and intrigue to keep things interesting. Grant's criminal family isn't about to let him go too easily.
Bad Behavior is the second book in Lane's CONduct series and picks up where With Good Behavior left off. While this one could be read as a stand-alone, I'd suggest starting with the first book in order to get a full understanding of Sophie and Grant's relationship.
March 26, 2011
I can't wait for this to be released!!!
Just one week!!! :D
...I bought it as soon as it came out and devoured it quickly. :)
Just one week!!! :D
...I bought it as soon as it came out and devoured it quickly. :)
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December 6, 2011Read this review at Smash Attack Reads! http://www.smashattackreads.com/2011/...
Smashtastic Synopsis: Grant and Sophie are back! In the second installment in The CONduct series by Jennifer Lane, Grant and Sophie face new perils as they fight to keep their love alive. Grant continues to battle his mafia family and inner demons, all the while fighting to stay out of prison. The end of cruise season is upon him, and if he doesn’t find a new job soon, it’s back to the slammer for him! Slammer = Papa Barberi = No good. All of this is threatening his sanity, and his parole officer knew just what Grant needed: therapy.
Thankfully, he’s able to attend couple’s therapy with his gorgeous girlfriend, Sophie, who is dealing with a few issues all her own. Sophie is struggling with her past mistakes and how they could affect her future with Grant. She has to deal with a sleaze ball at work, and her father still hates Grant.
Poor Dr. Hunter has his work cut out for him with these two!
When Grant picks up on a plot that his despicable father is planning, Grant must step up to the plate and use all his learned techniques and dig deep to stand up to his ruthless father. Sophie and Grant both find themselves in hellish scenarios, but this time, our loveable couple refuse to play victims.
Interest in the book: I really enjoyed With Good Behavior and have since become great internet friends with the author. This book is definitely outside the genre norm for me but there is something so fun and exciting about following the heroic and romantic adventures of the two main characters.
Characters: Sophie Taylor is back and more magnificent than ever. Picking up the pieces of her life after an ethical blunder, Sophie is steadily finding her place in the world again. She is a nurturer who isn’t afraid of change and working on her own shit, and I love her for it. Grant is up against some serious odds in this book, but with a devoted Sophie by his side, this man can do anything! I cannot get enough of these two together. They are so relatable and likeable. I love their dedication to each other, and their ability to work through those tough pieces of life in therapy. They are rocksauce!
I am so pleased that Jen chose to elevate Ben’s role in this book. Watching Grant’s teenage nephew grow and mature throughout this book was beautiful and made me teary-eyed. He has gone through so much and Grant refuses to let their family or past bring Ben down. So much love!
And I can’t forget about Dr. Hunter, who was really a stand out for me! We got to see a lot of Jen’s expertise through Dr. Hunter, who was a pretty fantastic psychologist. He brings up the issue that many psychologists / therapists / social workers deal with: how hard it is to remain unbiased and nonjudgmental when working with someone. It was so beneficial for me to see how even Dr. Hunter struggled with remaining neutral and unattached.
I must say I’m pretty impressed at Jen’s ability to go back and forth between POVs with ease. It really allows the reader to know exactly how the characters feel and what they are thinking in the moment. Jen explains her choice to use third person omniscient in this post, and personally, I think it works.
Worldbuilding: Jennifer Lane is a practicing psychologist and it shows! I admit it is one of the biggest reasons I love this series. I get to put on my therapy hat and really dissect what is happening to the characters, and how their pasts have shaped them. Plus, Jen throws her brilliance onto the pages a la therapy, and you gain some really great insight into what makes the characters tick. You will no doubt understand the characters and their actions. I love it!
Lasting Impressions: This novel was full of suspense and romance, with a bit of sad and enlightening moments thrown in. Lots of family drama and some great action, plus some fantastic humor! I thoroughly enjoyed watching McSailor and Bonnie’s love grow as they dealt with what they can never change and accepted who they were. And together, these two can do anything.
Smashtastic Entertainment Scale: Wicked Enjoyable!
Smashtastic Synopsis: Grant and Sophie are back! In the second installment in The CONduct series by Jennifer Lane, Grant and Sophie face new perils as they fight to keep their love alive. Grant continues to battle his mafia family and inner demons, all the while fighting to stay out of prison. The end of cruise season is upon him, and if he doesn’t find a new job soon, it’s back to the slammer for him! Slammer = Papa Barberi = No good. All of this is threatening his sanity, and his parole officer knew just what Grant needed: therapy.
Thankfully, he’s able to attend couple’s therapy with his gorgeous girlfriend, Sophie, who is dealing with a few issues all her own. Sophie is struggling with her past mistakes and how they could affect her future with Grant. She has to deal with a sleaze ball at work, and her father still hates Grant.
Poor Dr. Hunter has his work cut out for him with these two!
When Grant picks up on a plot that his despicable father is planning, Grant must step up to the plate and use all his learned techniques and dig deep to stand up to his ruthless father. Sophie and Grant both find themselves in hellish scenarios, but this time, our loveable couple refuse to play victims.
Interest in the book: I really enjoyed With Good Behavior and have since become great internet friends with the author. This book is definitely outside the genre norm for me but there is something so fun and exciting about following the heroic and romantic adventures of the two main characters.
Characters: Sophie Taylor is back and more magnificent than ever. Picking up the pieces of her life after an ethical blunder, Sophie is steadily finding her place in the world again. She is a nurturer who isn’t afraid of change and working on her own shit, and I love her for it. Grant is up against some serious odds in this book, but with a devoted Sophie by his side, this man can do anything! I cannot get enough of these two together. They are so relatable and likeable. I love their dedication to each other, and their ability to work through those tough pieces of life in therapy. They are rocksauce!
I am so pleased that Jen chose to elevate Ben’s role in this book. Watching Grant’s teenage nephew grow and mature throughout this book was beautiful and made me teary-eyed. He has gone through so much and Grant refuses to let their family or past bring Ben down. So much love!
And I can’t forget about Dr. Hunter, who was really a stand out for me! We got to see a lot of Jen’s expertise through Dr. Hunter, who was a pretty fantastic psychologist. He brings up the issue that many psychologists / therapists / social workers deal with: how hard it is to remain unbiased and nonjudgmental when working with someone. It was so beneficial for me to see how even Dr. Hunter struggled with remaining neutral and unattached.
I must say I’m pretty impressed at Jen’s ability to go back and forth between POVs with ease. It really allows the reader to know exactly how the characters feel and what they are thinking in the moment. Jen explains her choice to use third person omniscient in this post, and personally, I think it works.
Worldbuilding: Jennifer Lane is a practicing psychologist and it shows! I admit it is one of the biggest reasons I love this series. I get to put on my therapy hat and really dissect what is happening to the characters, and how their pasts have shaped them. Plus, Jen throws her brilliance onto the pages a la therapy, and you gain some really great insight into what makes the characters tick. You will no doubt understand the characters and their actions. I love it!
Lasting Impressions: This novel was full of suspense and romance, with a bit of sad and enlightening moments thrown in. Lots of family drama and some great action, plus some fantastic humor! I thoroughly enjoyed watching McSailor and Bonnie’s love grow as they dealt with what they can never change and accepted who they were. And together, these two can do anything.
Smashtastic Entertainment Scale: Wicked Enjoyable!
December 30, 2014
My book journey takes me to Chicago again for more of my favorite ex-cons, Grant and Sophie! While the first book showed where the romance began for these two, Bad Behavior centers on our lovable couple working on their issues. Through couples counseling, the emotions fly high as old scars resurface. It’s a good thing that their psychologist is so patient and caring. I gotta love Dr. Hunter Hayes as he helps them tackle their demons head on. Grant, especially, had a huge mountain to climb, since being the son of an abusive Mafioso boss left such deep scars.
Although the therapy sessions are good portion of this book, I think one of the highlights is the relationship Grant has with his teenage nephew. Ben is at an impressionable age, and Grant wants so much for him to not be pulled into the mafia life. He’s confused and hurting after all that went down with his father, Logan. The decisions Ben makes all add to the tension. Really, he has become one of my favorites in this series.
This book has less suspense than the first book, but the suspense that goes down pretty much unfolds spectacularly!
Although the therapy sessions are good portion of this book, I think one of the highlights is the relationship Grant has with his teenage nephew. Ben is at an impressionable age, and Grant wants so much for him to not be pulled into the mafia life. He’s confused and hurting after all that went down with his father, Logan. The decisions Ben makes all add to the tension. Really, he has become one of my favorites in this series.
This book has less suspense than the first book, but the suspense that goes down pretty much unfolds spectacularly!
May 9, 2011
This was the perfect follow-up to a fantastic first book. I loved the idea of getting to see what happens after the "happily ever after". Plus, we get to see two adults in a mostly healthy relationship trying to figure it all out. I can't say enough about this book. All the things I loved about the first one are true about this one as well.
I loved that the reader gets to see how the relationships with each of the main character's families develop. I loved watching Sophie's dad slowly grow fond of Grant. It was just fun.
I can't wait for the next one!!! Come on, Jennifer! Hurry it up already!
I loved that the reader gets to see how the relationships with each of the main character's families develop. I loved watching Sophie's dad slowly grow fond of Grant. It was just fun.
I can't wait for the next one!!! Come on, Jennifer! Hurry it up already!
May 29, 2011
I don't know how Jennifer Lane got all that story line into this book I'll never understand, but she did it. I really like that we get to see into Sophie and Grant's therapy appointments like we get to see their parole appointments too. Not to mention how far Grant and Sophie both come in this book, it's amazing, and it doesn't seem contrived just to get the book moving. I can't wait to see what happens in book #3!
June 20, 2012
Back again with Sophie and Grant! They continue the series with a surprising, wonderful tale. Your summer reading list should include this book series. It is fantastic! Jennifer Lane gives you a gripping, suspenseful love story in the unlikeliest of circumstances. Treat yourself to Jennifer's whole collection.
May 7, 2011
Bad Behavior makes us desire a healthy relationship. It´s a story that grabs you and doesn´t let you go. It makes you crave more. (So I´m happy On Best Behavior is coming soon)
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Jen, I learned a lot…
<3
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Jen, I learned a lot…
<3
June 17, 2011
Captivating!
September 1, 2013
Bad Behavior by Jennifer Lane
(Book #2: CONduct Series)
Source: Author
Rating: 4½/5 stars
Bad Behavior, book two in Jennifer Lane’s CONduct series picks up just where book one, With Good Behavior ended. YAY!!! Grant and Sophie are still a very new couple and thanks to their parole officer, Jerry Stone (still love him!) the two are now attending couple’s therapy and their therapist, Hunter (love him too!) has a crush on Grant. What could possibly go wrong there, right?
For Grant, therapy is just one more stress in his already stressful life. He is still in fear of his mafia family trying to pull him back into the fold, he is fearful his family may try to hurt Sophie yet again, his nephew, Ben is struggling after the loss of his father and, the cruising season is nearly over which means Grant needs to find another job or return to prison. The bright light in Grant’s life is Sophie and even though they struggle from time to time, Grant is committed to keeping Sophie and being the best man he can possibly be for both himself and for her. Aaww Unfortunately, therapy is stirring up all kinds of emotions in Grant that are in turn causing him to act out in some truly uncharacteristic ways.
Sophie is still working at the university as a professor and is slowly adjusting to her new life. She is making a few new friends on campus but is also running into reminders of her past. Dr. David Alton is a dashing man whose classes Sophie enjoyed almost as much as she enjoyed crushing on the professor. Things did not end well between the two and running into Dr. Alton is not something Sophie is at all looking forward to. On a more personal level, Sophie is still trying to repair her relationship with her father and work through her feelings about her past relationship with Grant’s brother, the man who sent her to prison. Thanks to couple’s therapy, Sophie gets to do all this soul-searching with Grant right by her side. Though this sounds like an ideal situation full of built-in support, Grant has no idea Sophie actually shagged his brother. What could possibly go wrong here?
With the turn of nearly every page, it seems as if Grant and Sophie are hit with yet another mess they have to find a way to deal with. Grant and Sophie truly live by when it rains, it pours but luckily, both have figured out that it is more than OK to ask for help. Thank goodness because the drama is just beginning. As Grant expected, his family once again comes calling and enlists Grant, with some seriously uncool persuasion, to help them bust Grant’s dad out of prison. Seriously?? The man went to prison for killing a kid!! As unbelievable as this twist may seem, it totally works with the story and all of the characters. This part of the plot line is one of the gems of this read and Lane beautifully pulls together all kinds of people and events in order to make this work.
The Bottom Line: Loved it!!! The two complaints I had about the first book, Lane totally eliminated from this read and it really improved the overall quality of the read for me. Even with all the crap he is dealing with, Grant has toughened up significantly and truly begun to deal with his past so that he can improve both his present and his future. On the flip side, I wavered where Sophie is concerned this time around. She has some really great moments of strength (her run in with Dr. Alton!) but also has some serious wimp moments that caused some disappointment for me. To be fair, I fully appreciate that Sophie is a work in progress and I still really like her; I just need her to follow Grant’s example and toughen up a little bit more. I like that Lane brought back some of the minor characters from book one (Hunter, Jerry, and Sophie’s dad) and further developed them as more significant characters. The dialogue is still sharp and often quite witty and the plot is entertaining as well as interesting. Overall, Lane provides a fine read with an ending you are not going to believe!! I am now fully and completely ready for book three, On Best Behavior.
(Book #2: CONduct Series)
Source: Author
Rating: 4½/5 stars
Bad Behavior, book two in Jennifer Lane’s CONduct series picks up just where book one, With Good Behavior ended. YAY!!! Grant and Sophie are still a very new couple and thanks to their parole officer, Jerry Stone (still love him!) the two are now attending couple’s therapy and their therapist, Hunter (love him too!) has a crush on Grant. What could possibly go wrong there, right?
For Grant, therapy is just one more stress in his already stressful life. He is still in fear of his mafia family trying to pull him back into the fold, he is fearful his family may try to hurt Sophie yet again, his nephew, Ben is struggling after the loss of his father and, the cruising season is nearly over which means Grant needs to find another job or return to prison. The bright light in Grant’s life is Sophie and even though they struggle from time to time, Grant is committed to keeping Sophie and being the best man he can possibly be for both himself and for her. Aaww Unfortunately, therapy is stirring up all kinds of emotions in Grant that are in turn causing him to act out in some truly uncharacteristic ways.
Sophie is still working at the university as a professor and is slowly adjusting to her new life. She is making a few new friends on campus but is also running into reminders of her past. Dr. David Alton is a dashing man whose classes Sophie enjoyed almost as much as she enjoyed crushing on the professor. Things did not end well between the two and running into Dr. Alton is not something Sophie is at all looking forward to. On a more personal level, Sophie is still trying to repair her relationship with her father and work through her feelings about her past relationship with Grant’s brother, the man who sent her to prison. Thanks to couple’s therapy, Sophie gets to do all this soul-searching with Grant right by her side. Though this sounds like an ideal situation full of built-in support, Grant has no idea Sophie actually shagged his brother. What could possibly go wrong here?
With the turn of nearly every page, it seems as if Grant and Sophie are hit with yet another mess they have to find a way to deal with. Grant and Sophie truly live by when it rains, it pours but luckily, both have figured out that it is more than OK to ask for help. Thank goodness because the drama is just beginning. As Grant expected, his family once again comes calling and enlists Grant, with some seriously uncool persuasion, to help them bust Grant’s dad out of prison. Seriously?? The man went to prison for killing a kid!! As unbelievable as this twist may seem, it totally works with the story and all of the characters. This part of the plot line is one of the gems of this read and Lane beautifully pulls together all kinds of people and events in order to make this work.
The Bottom Line: Loved it!!! The two complaints I had about the first book, Lane totally eliminated from this read and it really improved the overall quality of the read for me. Even with all the crap he is dealing with, Grant has toughened up significantly and truly begun to deal with his past so that he can improve both his present and his future. On the flip side, I wavered where Sophie is concerned this time around. She has some really great moments of strength (her run in with Dr. Alton!) but also has some serious wimp moments that caused some disappointment for me. To be fair, I fully appreciate that Sophie is a work in progress and I still really like her; I just need her to follow Grant’s example and toughen up a little bit more. I like that Lane brought back some of the minor characters from book one (Hunter, Jerry, and Sophie’s dad) and further developed them as more significant characters. The dialogue is still sharp and often quite witty and the plot is entertaining as well as interesting. Overall, Lane provides a fine read with an ending you are not going to believe!! I am now fully and completely ready for book three, On Best Behavior.
May 1, 2019
This book was such a rare delicious treat! There are so many things I loved about it: unique plot, lovable complex characters, tasteful humor, wonderful writing. I can go on and on.
But I would like to especially note one unusual thing about this book: the main characters (protagonists!) are conservatives! I really hope that what I am about to say will not allienate my fellow readers, who hold liberal views, because the book is trully wonderful. I am so tired of conservatives being demonized in literature. My political views are very much like Sophie described hers: very conservaive on economic issues, and more liberal on social issues. I grew up in Soviet Union, where my family and friends suffered deeply from socialism. In the US, I received master's degree in accounting with extensive courses in finances and economics. I think my conservative views are very informed views. My employers are conservatives. They are the most caring and generous, wonderful successful people. It really hurts to see writers of contemporary fiction firing ignorant insults into conservatives (I will spare you some examples). Jennifer Lane not only made her main characters conservatives (truly courageous of her), she didn't say a single condescending or disparaging word about people holding opposite views!
Her writing, her humor are truly tasteful.
Bonnie and MacSailor totally won my heart. Well, Joe, Ben, Jerry, Marylin, Hunter and Roger are right there with them. What a wonderful cast of characters! Normally, I don't like series with the same characters. But this one is definitely an exception. I also loved that even though the three books should be read in order, neither book ends with a cliffhanger.
Off to the final book in series!
But I would like to especially note one unusual thing about this book: the main characters (protagonists!) are conservatives! I really hope that what I am about to say will not allienate my fellow readers, who hold liberal views, because the book is trully wonderful. I am so tired of conservatives being demonized in literature. My political views are very much like Sophie described hers: very conservaive on economic issues, and more liberal on social issues. I grew up in Soviet Union, where my family and friends suffered deeply from socialism. In the US, I received master's degree in accounting with extensive courses in finances and economics. I think my conservative views are very informed views. My employers are conservatives. They are the most caring and generous, wonderful successful people. It really hurts to see writers of contemporary fiction firing ignorant insults into conservatives (I will spare you some examples). Jennifer Lane not only made her main characters conservatives (truly courageous of her), she didn't say a single condescending or disparaging word about people holding opposite views!
Her writing, her humor are truly tasteful.
Bonnie and MacSailor totally won my heart. Well, Joe, Ben, Jerry, Marylin, Hunter and Roger are right there with them. What a wonderful cast of characters! Normally, I don't like series with the same characters. But this one is definitely an exception. I also loved that even though the three books should be read in order, neither book ends with a cliffhanger.
Off to the final book in series!
July 13, 2011
*SPOILER ALERT*
Bad Behavior picks up where With Good Behavior ends. Sophie and Grant have to go to couples therapy mandated by their PO Jerry Stone. Sophie is all for it since she's been going to therapy, but Grant not so much, especially with what happened to him when he was a kid.
I definitely shed some tears reading about Grant's childhood, the stories he told Hunter and the flashbacks he experienced. The worst for me was the beating with the belt that made him bled. In that story you find out how Grant got the scar on his lower back and who actually shot someone at the age of 7. I felt like Jennifer did an amazing job showing the thoughts and emotions of an adult who was abused growing up. I didn't realize that what Grant was going through could be categorized as PTSD.
I thought it was very brave of Grant to go see his father. I wish he was a little more assertive, use that naval training, but I understand why he acted the way he did. I'm glad he was able to say what he needed, ask the questions that he needed even if Enzo didn't answer them all before blowing up on him.
The way Sophie stuck by him with each nightmare and each story was great. Grant opening up definitely helped them communicate better.
Sophie's issues weren't as crystal clear. Hers were more underlying problems dealing with people. Once again she was quick to think Grant was a bad guy even though she constantly told him he was nothing like his father or brother. She jumped to conclusion and listened to her father who just came back into her life. I'm glad that situation blew up at Hunter's office and the two were able to sit down and talk it out instead of going days.
While I like seeing Grant save Sophie, I'm glad she was able to take care of one situation on her own, well with her friends. The situation with her old professor David. It was a great plan between Tanya, Sophie and Nora. That man definitely had it coming. He got a kick out of these young students fawning over him, it made him feel better at their expense which wasn't fair.
There was a lot of suspense in this story and I loved every moment of it, sitting on the edge of my seat reading. Throughout the story, I was waiting for someone from his family to come after them, especially when they took care of Ben. Lucky for us, Uncle Angelo becomes ill and isn't able to manage the family that well.
Things really got scary when Grant realizes how his father plans on breaking out of jail. I thought it was going to be all prison break style, not paying off a politician who was setting up to be the next governor. I loved seeing Grant take charge and come up with an idea to thwart his father's plan. But that all got thrown out the window when Grant's family decided to come up with their own plan and make a move kidnapping both he and Sophie. Amazingly they both kept their cool, especially Grant who used what he learned in therapy. He was super smart about the whole ordeal, not fighting, giving out information to the FBI through the recorder, all leading to his arrest/rescue.
I really loved Ben in this story. I knew he was a good kid/young man, he just needed the right guidance and he got that with the help of Uncle Ben. Even Sophie made an impact on Ben. And that impact showed when Ben helped Joe and Jerry rescue her from the compound. I liked the way he stood up to Sophie's father, Will, and told him the truth about the family. It was the first step in Will starting to give Grant a chance.
With the ending of Bad Behavior, I can't wait until On Best Behavior.
I'm with Ben on the butterfly. That was the one stroke I didn't care to do. I remember when I was 11 I was entered to do 100 yards butterfly, I stopped after doing 50 and got out of the pool.
Bad Behavior picks up where With Good Behavior ends. Sophie and Grant have to go to couples therapy mandated by their PO Jerry Stone. Sophie is all for it since she's been going to therapy, but Grant not so much, especially with what happened to him when he was a kid.
I definitely shed some tears reading about Grant's childhood, the stories he told Hunter and the flashbacks he experienced. The worst for me was the beating with the belt that made him bled. In that story you find out how Grant got the scar on his lower back and who actually shot someone at the age of 7. I felt like Jennifer did an amazing job showing the thoughts and emotions of an adult who was abused growing up. I didn't realize that what Grant was going through could be categorized as PTSD.
I thought it was very brave of Grant to go see his father. I wish he was a little more assertive, use that naval training, but I understand why he acted the way he did. I'm glad he was able to say what he needed, ask the questions that he needed even if Enzo didn't answer them all before blowing up on him.
The way Sophie stuck by him with each nightmare and each story was great. Grant opening up definitely helped them communicate better.
Sophie's issues weren't as crystal clear. Hers were more underlying problems dealing with people. Once again she was quick to think Grant was a bad guy even though she constantly told him he was nothing like his father or brother. She jumped to conclusion and listened to her father who just came back into her life. I'm glad that situation blew up at Hunter's office and the two were able to sit down and talk it out instead of going days.
While I like seeing Grant save Sophie, I'm glad she was able to take care of one situation on her own, well with her friends. The situation with her old professor David. It was a great plan between Tanya, Sophie and Nora. That man definitely had it coming. He got a kick out of these young students fawning over him, it made him feel better at their expense which wasn't fair.
There was a lot of suspense in this story and I loved every moment of it, sitting on the edge of my seat reading. Throughout the story, I was waiting for someone from his family to come after them, especially when they took care of Ben. Lucky for us, Uncle Angelo becomes ill and isn't able to manage the family that well.
Things really got scary when Grant realizes how his father plans on breaking out of jail. I thought it was going to be all prison break style, not paying off a politician who was setting up to be the next governor. I loved seeing Grant take charge and come up with an idea to thwart his father's plan. But that all got thrown out the window when Grant's family decided to come up with their own plan and make a move kidnapping both he and Sophie. Amazingly they both kept their cool, especially Grant who used what he learned in therapy. He was super smart about the whole ordeal, not fighting, giving out information to the FBI through the recorder, all leading to his arrest/rescue.
I really loved Ben in this story. I knew he was a good kid/young man, he just needed the right guidance and he got that with the help of Uncle Ben. Even Sophie made an impact on Ben. And that impact showed when Ben helped Joe and Jerry rescue her from the compound. I liked the way he stood up to Sophie's father, Will, and told him the truth about the family. It was the first step in Will starting to give Grant a chance.
With the ending of Bad Behavior, I can't wait until On Best Behavior.
I'm with Ben on the butterfly. That was the one stroke I didn't care to do. I remember when I was 11 I was entered to do 100 yards butterfly, I stopped after doing 50 and got out of the pool.
August 4, 2016
Jennifer Lane’s BAD BEHAVIOR picks up right where On Good Behavior left off. If you haven’t read ON GOOD BEHAVIOR it is necessary to do so in order to understand why Sophie and Grant are in the position they are in.
After Logan’s death and Carlo’s attack on Sophie and her friend, both Grant and Sophie attempt to leave the past behind. Both begin to attend regular sessions with Sophie’s psychologist, Dr. Hunter and with Hunter’s help they begin to overcome their own personal demons. While things begin to fall into place, they are dealt two unexpected blows. The first surrounds Grant’s nephew, Ben, and his attempt to keep him away from his Mafia family, but when Ben finds out what his father did to Sophie, Grant knows he has his hands full. The second is regarding Grant’s father, Enzo and he has a special request: to talk to Grant. Will Enzo finally leave his son alone or will Grant be forced to work for the family one more time?
Ah, Grant how my heart breaks for you! Beta heroes can be hit or miss and Lane has given us a wonderful hero to cheer for. While some may view him as weak or dare I say call him a pussy, he’s not. I loved getting to know him in ON GOOD BEHAVIOR, but adored seeing his growth journey in BAD BEHAVIOR. Here we have a character that doesn’t need to change, but rather one who has to face his past and gather the courage to face his abuser. I cheered for Grant when he reads Enzo the riot act, but at the same time worry about what Enzo has in store for him. It’s Sophie that surprised me and I’m not sure what to think about her. I liked her in ON GOOD BEHAVIOR, but a few times in BAD BEHAVIOR she left me questioning her love for Grant. I won’t go into detail regarding what makes me think this because I don’t want to spoil things, but I was disappointed a few times in her even if she does realize her mistake early on.
I debated with the rating between a three and four and in the end decided on a three for one particular reason. While Grant and Sophie live and attend therapy together, the majority of the story takes place in these theraphy sessions. There’s nothing wrong with that, but I missed the Grant and Sophie interaction outside those sessions. We also have some external scenes where Sophie is at work and dealing with a work situation that I don’t see what it had to do with the plot other than to showcase Sophie’s new job at the university and expand the storyline. Don’t get me wrong I liked that we didn’t have a couple rely on each other and they aren’t one of those sickening couples that need to be together 24/7, but as I mentioned I really missed the solo scenes with these together.
Overall, I enjoyed BAD BEHAVIOR. Lane surprised me a few times especially with regards to Sophie’s father and it was refreshing to see Ben change his own behavior! I missed having more scenes with Roger and Joe, but in order to have character growth, I liked how Lane set things up. Just a quick note: there’s a lot of use and talk of psychology. This is very much Lane’s element and you can tell she’s comfortable with it. If you’re not too familiar with the history of psychology or its elements, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Don’t let it affect your possible enjoyment and gloss over these scenes if you can.
Fans of crime fiction will enjoy Jennifer Lane’s BAD BEHAVIOR. The final book in the series, ON BEST BEHAVIOR, is already available and I can’t wait to read it so I know how this series ends.
This review and more are posted at Literary, etc.
After Logan’s death and Carlo’s attack on Sophie and her friend, both Grant and Sophie attempt to leave the past behind. Both begin to attend regular sessions with Sophie’s psychologist, Dr. Hunter and with Hunter’s help they begin to overcome their own personal demons. While things begin to fall into place, they are dealt two unexpected blows. The first surrounds Grant’s nephew, Ben, and his attempt to keep him away from his Mafia family, but when Ben finds out what his father did to Sophie, Grant knows he has his hands full. The second is regarding Grant’s father, Enzo and he has a special request: to talk to Grant. Will Enzo finally leave his son alone or will Grant be forced to work for the family one more time?
Ah, Grant how my heart breaks for you! Beta heroes can be hit or miss and Lane has given us a wonderful hero to cheer for. While some may view him as weak or dare I say call him a pussy, he’s not. I loved getting to know him in ON GOOD BEHAVIOR, but adored seeing his growth journey in BAD BEHAVIOR. Here we have a character that doesn’t need to change, but rather one who has to face his past and gather the courage to face his abuser. I cheered for Grant when he reads Enzo the riot act, but at the same time worry about what Enzo has in store for him. It’s Sophie that surprised me and I’m not sure what to think about her. I liked her in ON GOOD BEHAVIOR, but a few times in BAD BEHAVIOR she left me questioning her love for Grant. I won’t go into detail regarding what makes me think this because I don’t want to spoil things, but I was disappointed a few times in her even if she does realize her mistake early on.
I debated with the rating between a three and four and in the end decided on a three for one particular reason. While Grant and Sophie live and attend therapy together, the majority of the story takes place in these theraphy sessions. There’s nothing wrong with that, but I missed the Grant and Sophie interaction outside those sessions. We also have some external scenes where Sophie is at work and dealing with a work situation that I don’t see what it had to do with the plot other than to showcase Sophie’s new job at the university and expand the storyline. Don’t get me wrong I liked that we didn’t have a couple rely on each other and they aren’t one of those sickening couples that need to be together 24/7, but as I mentioned I really missed the solo scenes with these together.
Overall, I enjoyed BAD BEHAVIOR. Lane surprised me a few times especially with regards to Sophie’s father and it was refreshing to see Ben change his own behavior! I missed having more scenes with Roger and Joe, but in order to have character growth, I liked how Lane set things up. Just a quick note: there’s a lot of use and talk of psychology. This is very much Lane’s element and you can tell she’s comfortable with it. If you’re not too familiar with the history of psychology or its elements, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Don’t let it affect your possible enjoyment and gloss over these scenes if you can.
Fans of crime fiction will enjoy Jennifer Lane’s BAD BEHAVIOR. The final book in the series, ON BEST BEHAVIOR, is already available and I can’t wait to read it so I know how this series ends.
This review and more are posted at Literary, etc.
April 27, 2012
This second book in the series picks up right where the first one leaves off. Hint- must read first book before this one so stop now if you haven't. (-;
Bad Behavior was every bit as wonderful as the first book, but it did have a different feel to it. It elicited a bigger emotional response from me because of the way the plot was developed, but because it was a sequel it did not jab me with the sharper responses of first discovery like what you get when introduced to things in the second book. Now that is not to say that this book is boring or predictable- far from it. I just meant that I was already familiar with the characters and the world they live in.
In this portion of Grant and Sophie's saga, they have just come through some tough stuff all because of their connections to Grant's mafia family. They are lucky to still be free and relatively unharmed. Their relationship does follow the old chestnut of 'what does not kill us makes us stronger'. Their parole officer is amused and bemused by them. He now has the two of them living together and attending their parole meetings together. He takes Sophie up on her tossed out comment to have Grant join her in counseling and he's mandating that it be couple's counseling. Thus for much of the book, the story unfolds in Dr. Hunter Hayes' counseling sessions where the couple are a surprise and challenge to this intrepid psychologist. Their lives are still overshadowed by the Barberi crime family, Sophie's father is adamantly opposed to their relationship, Grant is given the opportunity to pay his Uncle Joe's kindness forward with his own nephew Ben, and both Grant and Sophie are forced to confront a lot of their demons.
Many times a sequel disappoints when it comes to plot or pacing because it will stall out, but that is not the case in this installment. It may feel that way to some who read it because of how much of the story occurs on the counseling couch and the action is driven by what is set in motion after these sessions, but personally I felt this way of moving the plot was raw and engaging. Getting inside Grant's head was an incredible emotional ride. There is a good amount of action and suspense in the book, but truly the plot was all about Grant and Sophie's relationship and how it was flayed raw. Trust and love that will survive anything is demanded of them both.
The characters were abso-fab. The unique approach of plotting the story with the therapy sessions would have made or broke this book because it meant that the characters had to be written with such depth. Jennifer Lane did not disappoint. In addition to Grant and Sophie, this book gives us a closer look at Dr. Hunter Hayes who had a bigger role here as did Grant's dad Enzo, Sophie's dad, Ben and then there were all the other usual suspects- Jerry, Uncle Joe, Rog, the mob types, Marilyn, and a few new ones. I loved the character growth. The most attention grabbing scenes for me was Grant with his dad. I was totally engrossed at that point.
So, this was a great follow-up to the debut story and I am so glad to know that I will be able to continue with the series because there is a third Conduct book slated to come out.
Bad Behavior was every bit as wonderful as the first book, but it did have a different feel to it. It elicited a bigger emotional response from me because of the way the plot was developed, but because it was a sequel it did not jab me with the sharper responses of first discovery like what you get when introduced to things in the second book. Now that is not to say that this book is boring or predictable- far from it. I just meant that I was already familiar with the characters and the world they live in.
In this portion of Grant and Sophie's saga, they have just come through some tough stuff all because of their connections to Grant's mafia family. They are lucky to still be free and relatively unharmed. Their relationship does follow the old chestnut of 'what does not kill us makes us stronger'. Their parole officer is amused and bemused by them. He now has the two of them living together and attending their parole meetings together. He takes Sophie up on her tossed out comment to have Grant join her in counseling and he's mandating that it be couple's counseling. Thus for much of the book, the story unfolds in Dr. Hunter Hayes' counseling sessions where the couple are a surprise and challenge to this intrepid psychologist. Their lives are still overshadowed by the Barberi crime family, Sophie's father is adamantly opposed to their relationship, Grant is given the opportunity to pay his Uncle Joe's kindness forward with his own nephew Ben, and both Grant and Sophie are forced to confront a lot of their demons.
Many times a sequel disappoints when it comes to plot or pacing because it will stall out, but that is not the case in this installment. It may feel that way to some who read it because of how much of the story occurs on the counseling couch and the action is driven by what is set in motion after these sessions, but personally I felt this way of moving the plot was raw and engaging. Getting inside Grant's head was an incredible emotional ride. There is a good amount of action and suspense in the book, but truly the plot was all about Grant and Sophie's relationship and how it was flayed raw. Trust and love that will survive anything is demanded of them both.
The characters were abso-fab. The unique approach of plotting the story with the therapy sessions would have made or broke this book because it meant that the characters had to be written with such depth. Jennifer Lane did not disappoint. In addition to Grant and Sophie, this book gives us a closer look at Dr. Hunter Hayes who had a bigger role here as did Grant's dad Enzo, Sophie's dad, Ben and then there were all the other usual suspects- Jerry, Uncle Joe, Rog, the mob types, Marilyn, and a few new ones. I loved the character growth. The most attention grabbing scenes for me was Grant with his dad. I was totally engrossed at that point.
So, this was a great follow-up to the debut story and I am so glad to know that I will be able to continue with the series because there is a third Conduct book slated to come out.
December 6, 2011
The second book in the CONduct series picks up shortly after the first. Sophie is still recovering from cousin Carlo's attack while preparing to start her teaching position at DePaul. Grant, still reeling from the torment his family put Sophie through, dealing with the death of his brother and the prospect of finding a new job, really doesn't want to participate in the couple's therapy sessions their PO has assigned.
But therapy is what Sophie and Grant embark on with Dr. Hunter Hayes. Hunter was working with Sophie when she was first released, but he agrees to take on the couple against his better judgement. He knows right away that things with this couple are not going to be easy. He was right.
Grant's nightmares are bad and with therapy, things seem to get worse. Reliving the nightmare he lived through and knowing that the woman he loves knows all his dirty little secrets is almost too much for him. And when Grant learns exactly what kind of relationship Sophie had with his brother, Logan, Grant snaps.
But Grant's not the only one needing to deal with issues. Sophie's dealing with her tenuous relationship with her father and trying to figure out what her professional life is going to be like now that she's teaching about psychology instead of practicing it. Plus there's her ex-professor/crush who she now works with and makes her feel inferior.
While Grant and Sophie have their own individual issues to deal with, they also need to help Grant's nephew Ben. Grant's determined to make sure Ben doesn't fall into the family business, but Ben's not fully engaged in his clean-cut lifestyle.
But as Grant and Sophie make strides in strengthening themselves and their relationship, old foes resurface and put our couple right in path of trouble. Can they finally stop the Barberi's and live happily ever after?
Sophie and Grant are as cute as ever in this addition to the series, but they both face some real hardships in their relationship. Through their counseling sessions they both learn they have their own set of issues that need to be worked on in order to ensure their relationship will be strong. It was very interesting to "watch" them work through those issues and get to the place where they can actually address those that caused the brunt of their issues.
The continued Barberi story was interesting and we get to witness Enzo Barberi first hand and how the man can still terrorize his thirty year old son....even from behind bars. My only complaint would be what happened to Enzo and the rest of the Barberi family after the events that happened at the end of the book. Maybe we'll get more of that in the third book in the series.
While not quite as heartbreaking as "With Good Behavior" but it was nice to see a good therapist help Grant and Sophie deal with their issues and work towards being healthier individuals and creating that strong, lasting, loving relationship.
Can't wait for book 3.
But therapy is what Sophie and Grant embark on with Dr. Hunter Hayes. Hunter was working with Sophie when she was first released, but he agrees to take on the couple against his better judgement. He knows right away that things with this couple are not going to be easy. He was right.
Grant's nightmares are bad and with therapy, things seem to get worse. Reliving the nightmare he lived through and knowing that the woman he loves knows all his dirty little secrets is almost too much for him. And when Grant learns exactly what kind of relationship Sophie had with his brother, Logan, Grant snaps.
But Grant's not the only one needing to deal with issues. Sophie's dealing with her tenuous relationship with her father and trying to figure out what her professional life is going to be like now that she's teaching about psychology instead of practicing it. Plus there's her ex-professor/crush who she now works with and makes her feel inferior.
While Grant and Sophie have their own individual issues to deal with, they also need to help Grant's nephew Ben. Grant's determined to make sure Ben doesn't fall into the family business, but Ben's not fully engaged in his clean-cut lifestyle.
But as Grant and Sophie make strides in strengthening themselves and their relationship, old foes resurface and put our couple right in path of trouble. Can they finally stop the Barberi's and live happily ever after?
Sophie and Grant are as cute as ever in this addition to the series, but they both face some real hardships in their relationship. Through their counseling sessions they both learn they have their own set of issues that need to be worked on in order to ensure their relationship will be strong. It was very interesting to "watch" them work through those issues and get to the place where they can actually address those that caused the brunt of their issues.
The continued Barberi story was interesting and we get to witness Enzo Barberi first hand and how the man can still terrorize his thirty year old son....even from behind bars. My only complaint would be what happened to Enzo and the rest of the Barberi family after the events that happened at the end of the book. Maybe we'll get more of that in the third book in the series.
While not quite as heartbreaking as "With Good Behavior" but it was nice to see a good therapist help Grant and Sophie deal with their issues and work towards being healthier individuals and creating that strong, lasting, loving relationship.
Can't wait for book 3.
December 16, 2013
3.5 Stars.
“Sometimes I feel like a normal person. Sometimes I forget I’m on parole, that I’m not really free.”
(Thank you to Jennifer Lane for providing me with an ecopy for review.)
In Bad Behavior, Grant and Sophie still have a lot to work through as they learn to deal with the loss of Logan and the constant threat of the Barbari family. When they are ordered to attend couples counseling, the two set out on a journey of sharing their past with each other. Unknown secrets and horrific past events come to light that make these two realize just how much they don't know about each other.
Grant has a past that makes him vulnerable and hesitant to open up in therapy. With the help of Hunter, their psychologist, Grant worked to confront his demons and open up to Sophie about the horrors of his childhood. A process that took the whole book to accomplish, but when it did, set him free. Even with the meddling of his family, Grant was able to overcome his father’s sadistic hold over him and to find himself.
All the while he was also watching over his nephew Ben and trying to keep the young Barbari on the straight and narrow. As he learned to be an uncle to Bean we got a glimpse into Grant’s compassion and his potential to be a wonderful father. The relationship between those two has me smiling and laughing throughout. And when push comes to shove you see the wonderful growth in Ben. One that had me wishing for a story of his own. :)
As for Sophie, I have to say that although the story was about both Grant and she I felt as though the focus wasn’t on her. This book, to me, was about Grant and his journey in healing. Sophie was there to support him throughout and to help him see the good in himself but didn’t have the problems that Grant had. She did have her own issues but they were quickly resolved and the focus turned back to Grant.
The thing that made this book so difficult to read was that practically the whole book was spent inside the Hunter’s office. I understood that they needed the counseling but it felt kind of bland to read after a while especially because of Sophie’s hand holding. The way she always rescued Grant made it a bit annoying. I felt like Grant needed to be able to take this next step for himself, without the rescuing. I think it would have been better if the two had some counseling sessions separately.
So all in all this was a good book. I will read the final book to see what comes of these and encourage you all to read the series!
Happy Reading!
“Sometimes I feel like a normal person. Sometimes I forget I’m on parole, that I’m not really free.”
(Thank you to Jennifer Lane for providing me with an ecopy for review.)
In Bad Behavior, Grant and Sophie still have a lot to work through as they learn to deal with the loss of Logan and the constant threat of the Barbari family. When they are ordered to attend couples counseling, the two set out on a journey of sharing their past with each other. Unknown secrets and horrific past events come to light that make these two realize just how much they don't know about each other.
Grant has a past that makes him vulnerable and hesitant to open up in therapy. With the help of Hunter, their psychologist, Grant worked to confront his demons and open up to Sophie about the horrors of his childhood. A process that took the whole book to accomplish, but when it did, set him free. Even with the meddling of his family, Grant was able to overcome his father’s sadistic hold over him and to find himself.
All the while he was also watching over his nephew Ben and trying to keep the young Barbari on the straight and narrow. As he learned to be an uncle to Bean we got a glimpse into Grant’s compassion and his potential to be a wonderful father. The relationship between those two has me smiling and laughing throughout. And when push comes to shove you see the wonderful growth in Ben. One that had me wishing for a story of his own. :)
As for Sophie, I have to say that although the story was about both Grant and she I felt as though the focus wasn’t on her. This book, to me, was about Grant and his journey in healing. Sophie was there to support him throughout and to help him see the good in himself but didn’t have the problems that Grant had. She did have her own issues but they were quickly resolved and the focus turned back to Grant.
The thing that made this book so difficult to read was that practically the whole book was spent inside the Hunter’s office. I understood that they needed the counseling but it felt kind of bland to read after a while especially because of Sophie’s hand holding. The way she always rescued Grant made it a bit annoying. I felt like Grant needed to be able to take this next step for himself, without the rescuing. I think it would have been better if the two had some counseling sessions separately.
So all in all this was a good book. I will read the final book to see what comes of these and encourage you all to read the series!
Happy Reading!
December 28, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
I HAVE NO IDEA WHY I WAS HOLDING OFF ON READING THIS.
WHY WOULD I EVEN DO THAT??
WHAT'S WRONG WITH ME??!
EVERYBODY, YOU NEED TO READ THIS SERIES NOW.
I'M SCREAAAAAMMMMMMMMIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGG
And actually I've been fangirling for over ten minutes now and I still can't stop smiling.
This. Book. Is. Filled. With. Love.
omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.
Okay, I love everyone. Actually, I love the whole thing. I love everything.
I've thought of a few reasons why I held back on reading this:
- I knew it'll be this great, I didn't want to finish it too fast.
- I'm stupid.
- I was not functioning properly
- My laptop broke
- I knew I'll just suffer because I won't be able to function out of too inlove
I just. I. Just. Can't. I. Just. I. Can't. Even.
omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.
It'll take a little bit longer before I get over this one.
I'm screaming.
Have I warned you about how I won't be useful at all?
Well, I'll do my best.
I love the plot. I can't say it's cliche because it's different. It's seriously different from anything I've read before. Just. Beautifully different.
And Grant is hot.
And Sophie's freaking tall.I'm jealous
I just.
And in this book, we'll be spending more time in Hunter Hayes's office. (Doesn't the name sound familiar?) I love Hunter. Everybody loves Hunter. Okay, everyone, that's a rule. We all love Hunter because he's freaking awesome. He played a really huge role here and he's freaking adorable.
Annnnnnndddddd.... there are rather steamy moments.
I melted.
I'm nothing but a puddle of melted love on the floor.
This book has just the right amount of comedy, psycho, seriousness, love, everything. No, it was not punk rock action-filled but there were moments to get your heart beating and your blood rushing.
And the last chapter is just.
I'm in love.
And I might have not been able to be helpful but I can say one thing: I NEED ON BEST BEHAVIOR NOW
I HAVE NO IDEA WHY I WAS HOLDING OFF ON READING THIS.
WHY WOULD I EVEN DO THAT??
WHAT'S WRONG WITH ME??!
EVERYBODY, YOU NEED TO READ THIS SERIES NOW.
I'M SCREAAAAAMMMMMMMMIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGG
And actually I've been fangirling for over ten minutes now and I still can't stop smiling.
This. Book. Is. Filled. With. Love.
omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.
Okay, I love everyone. Actually, I love the whole thing. I love everything.
I've thought of a few reasons why I held back on reading this:
- I knew it'll be this great, I didn't want to finish it too fast.
- I'm stupid.
- I was not functioning properly
- My laptop broke
- I knew I'll just suffer because I won't be able to function out of too inlove
I just. I. Just. Can't. I. Just. I. Can't. Even.
omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.omygosh.
It'll take a little bit longer before I get over this one.
I'm screaming.
Have I warned you about how I won't be useful at all?
Well, I'll do my best.
I love the plot. I can't say it's cliche because it's different. It's seriously different from anything I've read before. Just. Beautifully different.
And Grant is hot.
And Sophie's freaking tall.
I just.
And in this book, we'll be spending more time in Hunter Hayes's office. (Doesn't the name sound familiar?) I love Hunter. Everybody loves Hunter. Okay, everyone, that's a rule. We all love Hunter because he's freaking awesome. He played a really huge role here and he's freaking adorable.
Annnnnnndddddd.... there are rather steamy moments.
I melted.
I'm nothing but a puddle of melted love on the floor.
This book has just the right amount of comedy, psycho, seriousness, love, everything. No, it was not punk rock action-filled but there were moments to get your heart beating and your blood rushing.
And the last chapter is just.
I'm in love.
And I might have not been able to be helpful but I can say one thing: I NEED ON BEST BEHAVIOR NOW
May 23, 2011
I have a tendency to approach subsequent books in a series with a hint of trepidation, wondering whether or not the author still has sufficient “story” to tell. I was pleased to discover that Bad Behavior has a great depth of “story” to tell.
What sets The Conduct series apart from so many novels, for me, is that I feel as though I truly know and understand each of the characters – probably better than I understand the people around me! Jennifer Lane has an uncanny ability to provide readers with tremendous insight into her characters. You may love them, like them, dislike them or hate them, but most of all you UNDERSTAND them: why they are who they are; and why they behave the way they do.
In Bad Behavior we come to know both Grant and Sophie intimately. In parallel, they learn more about each other and their relationship deepens. There are raw moments in their mandated couple’s therapy sessions (a wise woman once said: before therapy makes things better, it makes things worse!) During the course of the novel, both Grant and Sophie must confront their demons.
The book also has plenty of lighter moments (I love Jennifer Lane’s sense of humor!) and the lovebirds encounter some everyday (and some not-so-everyday!) hurdles, such new jobs/careers and teen rebellion. I enjoyed learning more about sixteen year old Ben; and about Sophie’s relationship with her father (and late mother). Fans of the colorful Jerry, Marilyn and Roger will not be disappointed. :)
As I write this review, I’m frustrated that I can’t seem to find the words to do this novel justice. The best thing that I can do is to recommend that you read it! Neither Grant nor Sophie is perfect, yet they are characters that I carry with me, long after I’ve turned the last page.
What sets The Conduct series apart from so many novels, for me, is that I feel as though I truly know and understand each of the characters – probably better than I understand the people around me! Jennifer Lane has an uncanny ability to provide readers with tremendous insight into her characters. You may love them, like them, dislike them or hate them, but most of all you UNDERSTAND them: why they are who they are; and why they behave the way they do.
In Bad Behavior we come to know both Grant and Sophie intimately. In parallel, they learn more about each other and their relationship deepens. There are raw moments in their mandated couple’s therapy sessions (a wise woman once said: before therapy makes things better, it makes things worse!) During the course of the novel, both Grant and Sophie must confront their demons.
The book also has plenty of lighter moments (I love Jennifer Lane’s sense of humor!) and the lovebirds encounter some everyday (and some not-so-everyday!) hurdles, such new jobs/careers and teen rebellion. I enjoyed learning more about sixteen year old Ben; and about Sophie’s relationship with her father (and late mother). Fans of the colorful Jerry, Marilyn and Roger will not be disappointed. :)
As I write this review, I’m frustrated that I can’t seem to find the words to do this novel justice. The best thing that I can do is to recommend that you read it! Neither Grant nor Sophie is perfect, yet they are characters that I carry with me, long after I’ve turned the last page.
March 26, 2011
Bad Behavior is the second book in The Conduct Series. If you haven’t read the first book, With Good Behavior, I suggest you do so now, and DO NOT KEEP READING THIS REVIEW!
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The love story of parolees Grant Madsen and Sophie Taylor continues in Bad Behavior. This time they are mandated to attend counseling together. With their baggage from the past, they have a lot to deal with! Not to mention the baggage that Ashley dumps on their doorstep in the middle of the night! :P Jennifer Lane’s experience as a psychologist becomes abundantly clear when you read the insightful therapy scenes. There’s a fascinating scene where they bump into their therapist at a restaurant!
Other interesting storylines are:
The shifting dynamics within and between Grant and Sophie’s families
Grant’s nephew, Ben: history is repeating itself - but is it Grant’s history, or Logan's? :s
Sophie’s experiences with her friends and colleagues at her new job
Will Grant have a job (and therefore stay out of prison) when the cruises stop at the end of summer?
That BIG thing that was about to happen (which I can’t tell you about!)
The BIG thing that almost happened (which I can’t tell you about!)
The BIG thing that DID happen (which I can’t tell you about!)
The OTHER BIG thing that happened (which I can’t tell you about!)
I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself! ;D
I'm a big fan of this series and I'm very much looking forward to reading On Best Behavior (The Conduct Series #3).
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The love story of parolees Grant Madsen and Sophie Taylor continues in Bad Behavior. This time they are mandated to attend counseling together. With their baggage from the past, they have a lot to deal with! Not to mention the baggage that Ashley dumps on their doorstep in the middle of the night! :P Jennifer Lane’s experience as a psychologist becomes abundantly clear when you read the insightful therapy scenes. There’s a fascinating scene where they bump into their therapist at a restaurant!
Other interesting storylines are:
The shifting dynamics within and between Grant and Sophie’s families
Grant’s nephew, Ben: history is repeating itself - but is it Grant’s history, or Logan's? :s
Sophie’s experiences with her friends and colleagues at her new job
Will Grant have a job (and therefore stay out of prison) when the cruises stop at the end of summer?
That BIG thing that was about to happen (which I can’t tell you about!)
The BIG thing that almost happened (which I can’t tell you about!)
The BIG thing that DID happen (which I can’t tell you about!)
The OTHER BIG thing that happened (which I can’t tell you about!)
I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself! ;D
I'm a big fan of this series and I'm very much looking forward to reading On Best Behavior (The Conduct Series #3).
June 20, 2013
3.5
Bad Behavior is a prime example of why I dislike taking review requests. Not because Bad Behavior is bad--it's not, not at all--but because I drag my feet when it comes time to read and review. (Sorry, Jennifer!) And I'm sure that the only reason I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first is because it was a review request. Because review requests = obligations = not as fun. So it goes.
If you thought Sophie's and Grant's adventures were over and done with after With Good Behavior, you were wrong. Though certainly not over, the suspense factor in Bad Behavior is toned down, waiting until the very end of the book before the action kicks up and we start worrying for the characters. The ending, though? I like where it's going to take the characters. There's hope for them yet.
I'm torn about how I feel about the psychologist aspects of Bad Behavior. That Sophie and Grant work on building healthy relationships with each other and their respective families was something that belongs in more books. But it did turn into a psychology lesson every now and again, which wasn't what I was looking for at the time. Sometimes even I need to turn my brain off. Crazy. But true.
But if you've read With Good Behavior, you'll want to see how Sophie and Grant fair in this installment. I had some eyebrow-raising moments with these two (Grant more than Sophie), but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless.
Bad Behavior is a prime example of why I dislike taking review requests. Not because Bad Behavior is bad--it's not, not at all--but because I drag my feet when it comes time to read and review. (Sorry, Jennifer!) And I'm sure that the only reason I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first is because it was a review request. Because review requests = obligations = not as fun. So it goes.
If you thought Sophie's and Grant's adventures were over and done with after With Good Behavior, you were wrong. Though certainly not over, the suspense factor in Bad Behavior is toned down, waiting until the very end of the book before the action kicks up and we start worrying for the characters. The ending, though? I like where it's going to take the characters. There's hope for them yet.
I'm torn about how I feel about the psychologist aspects of Bad Behavior. That Sophie and Grant work on building healthy relationships with each other and their respective families was something that belongs in more books. But it did turn into a psychology lesson every now and again, which wasn't what I was looking for at the time. Sometimes even I need to turn my brain off. Crazy. But true.
But if you've read With Good Behavior, you'll want to see how Sophie and Grant fair in this installment. I had some eyebrow-raising moments with these two (Grant more than Sophie), but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless.
April 14, 2012
I love this series by Jennifer Lane. This second book in the series delves more into the lives of Grant and Sophie, the main characters. They are still on parole and dealing with Grant's mafia family.
My favorite part of this novel was therapy with Hunter. Hunter is honest in dealing with his feelings of attraction to Grant. It is clear that the author is a psychologist as she delves into issues like "disassociation" and "leading with your feelings". Being a psychology major myself, it was really interesting to see how she weaves this into the story.
It was great to see Grant honestly confront his father, the head of the mafia, in jail and let him know how that he treated him as a child and an adult was not acceptable. I loved how Grant and Sophie interacted in couples therapy and learned how to be more honest and clear in their communication with each other. I am really fed up with these romance novels that thrive on miscommunication. It was a welcome change to read a novel where the characters are learning to communicate honestly and openly.
I am really enjoying this series and can't wait for the third installment.
My favorite part of this novel was therapy with Hunter. Hunter is honest in dealing with his feelings of attraction to Grant. It is clear that the author is a psychologist as she delves into issues like "disassociation" and "leading with your feelings". Being a psychology major myself, it was really interesting to see how she weaves this into the story.
It was great to see Grant honestly confront his father, the head of the mafia, in jail and let him know how that he treated him as a child and an adult was not acceptable. I loved how Grant and Sophie interacted in couples therapy and learned how to be more honest and clear in their communication with each other. I am really fed up with these romance novels that thrive on miscommunication. It was a welcome change to read a novel where the characters are learning to communicate honestly and openly.
I am really enjoying this series and can't wait for the third installment.
January 14, 2013
For a breath of fresh air, try Bad Behavior. If you're tired of reading about journalists / girls working in the publishing industry and cliches about really rich love interests, Bad Behavior provides just this. (Unlike the superhuman leads of recent times, our hero is not rich with ten thousand abilities; he's macho but cried in the first few chapters - so human, so sexy!)
It's about a former pyschologist who has just been released from prison on parole and a Mafia's son who had also just been released from prison on parole. Both had been victims of circumstances when they ended up in jail, and both vowed never to return to that life.
Trouble, is our heroine happened to have had liaisons with our hero's brother, and our hero's mafia dad looms like the phantom menace in the background.
It's a juicy story that hits the accelerator as early as page one and doesn't stop until the end. Being a pyschologist herself, Jennifer Lane gives a vivid portrayal of life in that career - which I can say is a real pull factor given all the books of girls in the media.
In short, Jennifer Lane is a terrific author to look out for.
It's about a former pyschologist who has just been released from prison on parole and a Mafia's son who had also just been released from prison on parole. Both had been victims of circumstances when they ended up in jail, and both vowed never to return to that life.
Trouble, is our heroine happened to have had liaisons with our hero's brother, and our hero's mafia dad looms like the phantom menace in the background.
It's a juicy story that hits the accelerator as early as page one and doesn't stop until the end. Being a pyschologist herself, Jennifer Lane gives a vivid portrayal of life in that career - which I can say is a real pull factor given all the books of girls in the media.
In short, Jennifer Lane is a terrific author to look out for.
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