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Federal K-9 #7
Above 'N' Beyond
Getting locked up had been easy. But for K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio, going undercover at a maximum-security prison—and infiltrating the Mancusco crime family—was the hard part. Now, six months later, Jamie’s been accepted as one of the mob’s own, and he’s walking out of the gates as a free man…and stepping into the criminal underworld. There’s only one small, gorgeous problem: Bella Bianco.
The Italian bistro used to be Bella’s pride and joy. Now it’s become a nightmare, where her violent family uses her restaurant as its criminal home base. Guilty by association. She needs to find a way out, and fast. The last thing Bella needs is an attraction to their newest “associate”—even if every moment alone with him leaves her breathless. It’s almost enough to make her reconsider her “no mobsters” policy…
They can’t trust each other. But if either of them ever wants to break free of their circumstances, they don’t have a choice. They’ll have to take down her family. And if anyone finds out they’re working together…they’re both dead.
Each book in the Federal K-9 series is STANDALONE:
* Lock 'N' Load
* Armed 'N' Ready
* Dark 'N' Deadly
* Trap 'N' Trace
* Serve 'N' Protect
* Honor 'N' Duty
* Above 'N' Beyond
The Italian bistro used to be Bella’s pride and joy. Now it’s become a nightmare, where her violent family uses her restaurant as its criminal home base. Guilty by association. She needs to find a way out, and fast. The last thing Bella needs is an attraction to their newest “associate”—even if every moment alone with him leaves her breathless. It’s almost enough to make her reconsider her “no mobsters” policy…
They can’t trust each other. But if either of them ever wants to break free of their circumstances, they don’t have a choice. They’ll have to take down her family. And if anyone finds out they’re working together…they’re both dead.
Each book in the Federal K-9 series is STANDALONE:
* Lock 'N' Load
* Armed 'N' Ready
* Dark 'N' Deadly
* Trap 'N' Trace
* Serve 'N' Protect
* Honor 'N' Duty
* Above 'N' Beyond
350 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2023
131 people are currently reading
2322 people want to read
About the author
Tee O'Fallon
24 books2,021 followersTee O'Fallon is the author of the K-9 Special Ops, Federal K-9, and NYPD Blue & Gold Series. Tee spent twenty-three years as a federal agent conducting complex, long- and short-term criminal investigations, including undercover operations, across many agencies at the federal level, and multi-state investigations as a police investigator. It felt only natural to combine her hands-on experience in the field with her love of romantic suspense. Tee has lived in New York State most of her life with a five-year stop in Colorado. When not writing, she enjoys cooking, gardening, chocolate, lychee martinis, and all creatures canine.
Be sure to follow Tee on BookBub for the latest on sales and new releases: https://bit.ly/BookBubTeeOFallon
Sign up for Tee's newsletters at https://teeofallon.com/subscribe/ to receive a FREE digital copy of Lock 'N' Load!
Tee loves hearing from readers and can be contacted via her website https://teeofallon.com.
Be sure to follow Tee on BookBub for the latest on sales and new releases: https://bit.ly/BookBubTeeOFallon
Sign up for Tee's newsletters at https://teeofallon.com/subscribe/ to receive a FREE digital copy of Lock 'N' Load!
Tee loves hearing from readers and can be contacted via her website https://teeofallon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
November 12, 2024
This is an entertaining, well-written, fast paced, romantic suspense novel. It has a likable and engaging female protagonist, a strong and capable male protagonist, an adorable puppy, a heroic K-9, intrigue, suspense, supportive friends and family, a sizzling, steamy, heart-warming romance, and a happily ever after ending. This is the final entry in Ms. O'Fallon's outstanding "Federal K-9" series, and it can be easily read as a stand alone. Her loyal readers will appreciate the epilogue, to catch up on the characters from the previous novels in this series. I listened to the audio version of this novel, and the narrator, Ms. Vanessa Daniels, has a lovely voice and does an excellent job depicting the characters and their personalities.
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September 25, 2023From the Author:
I am so happy to be releasing another book this year - ABOVE 'N' BEYOND! This is the seventh and final installment in the Federal K-9 series. This is Jamie's story, the one you've all been asking for.
For this book, I took a really deep dive into conflict and emotional wounds that drive characters to do what they do, make the decisions they make, and I think it added so many layers to the story. That’s why I think this is one of the best books I’ve written. There’s so much juicy angst and meat to Jamie’s and Bella’s fears, hopes and dreams, and especially, their character arcs.
It's been a wild ride, and writing the last Fed K-9 is bittersweet. I worked hard to make this story worthy of a finale. I hope you enjoy Above 'N' Beyond!
Tee
I am so happy to be releasing another book this year - ABOVE 'N' BEYOND! This is the seventh and final installment in the Federal K-9 series. This is Jamie's story, the one you've all been asking for.
For this book, I took a really deep dive into conflict and emotional wounds that drive characters to do what they do, make the decisions they make, and I think it added so many layers to the story. That’s why I think this is one of the best books I’ve written. There’s so much juicy angst and meat to Jamie’s and Bella’s fears, hopes and dreams, and especially, their character arcs.
It's been a wild ride, and writing the last Fed K-9 is bittersweet. I worked hard to make this story worthy of a finale. I hope you enjoy Above 'N' Beyond!
Tee
October 10, 2023
So much love for this book! I’m going to miss the K-9 series and the yummy men!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book had my attention from the very beginning. The plot was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see how the author was going to blend her felon into the story.
With a mob-style story ramping up the excitement and suspense, it was easy to get addicted to the story. It was tough to envision how O’Fallon was going to bridge and develop the romance between the two main characters.
However, she pulled it off! With that slow-burn connection, the intensity between the characters, and the wonderful K-9 didn’t hurt either by almost stealing the show. Love Jax!
Both of the two main characters were strong and likable. Jamie, with his sweet care and concern, his tender heart is a perfect balance for Bella. She is strong and stands up to her family in ways that would certainly get her removed from the family when tensions run high. I love that O’Fallon adds plenty of relatable family and personal issues they both have to deal with which ties them even closer.
Above ‘N’ Beyond is fast-paced, addicting, and suspenseful, with a bit of steam for the romance lovers. The ending was explosive and capped off this series perfectly!
I am going to miss this team! O’Fallon is the queen of the K-9 Cops!
~~~~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/above-n-beyo...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book had my attention from the very beginning. The plot was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see how the author was going to blend her felon into the story.
With a mob-style story ramping up the excitement and suspense, it was easy to get addicted to the story. It was tough to envision how O’Fallon was going to bridge and develop the romance between the two main characters.
However, she pulled it off! With that slow-burn connection, the intensity between the characters, and the wonderful K-9 didn’t hurt either by almost stealing the show. Love Jax!
Both of the two main characters were strong and likable. Jamie, with his sweet care and concern, his tender heart is a perfect balance for Bella. She is strong and stands up to her family in ways that would certainly get her removed from the family when tensions run high. I love that O’Fallon adds plenty of relatable family and personal issues they both have to deal with which ties them even closer.
Above ‘N’ Beyond is fast-paced, addicting, and suspenseful, with a bit of steam for the romance lovers. The ending was explosive and capped off this series perfectly!
I am going to miss this team! O’Fallon is the queen of the K-9 Cops!
~~~~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/above-n-beyo...
November 12, 2023
I love romantic suspenses, but too often, the plot is weak at best. With this author, it’s never the case, and once again, she nailed it. It may have been even better than the romance itself.
At the center of the story was family love. Jamie has a strained relationship with his dad, but he’s willing to do anything to help him. On the other hand, Bella is family to her aunt and her cousin mostly in name, as they treat her more like a servant. But even then, she has some feelings for them. It was an interesting theme as a background noise. I enjoyed the subtelty of it, as it didn’t distract from the suspense and the love story.
I wasn’t a fan of how the romance started. Jamie is a serial lover, and Bella swore to herself she would never have a relationship with a mobster. Yet, they quickly fall for each other because they are so special. Except, they aren’t really? I had a hard time believing that Jamie never met a woman with a strong personality before Bella. And Bella had a handsome mobster doing nice things for her before but never fell for him. They were both interesting characters, don’t get me wrong. But their justification for ending up together didn’t really compute.
As for how their relationship developped, it was nice. They helped each other, supported each other, had great interactions. And despite Jamie hiding who he really was–he felt guilty for that too–they showed sides of themselves they didn’t usually showed, and their connection was heartfelt.
The plot was well thought out. Jamie is undercover with the mob because he made a deal with the FBI to help his father out of prison. He’s here to bring down Bella’s family. But between jealous and/or suspicious mobsters, less than helpful FBI agents, and his own feelings toward Bella, his job is cut out for him. Though a couple of timely coincidences made some aspects of his missions real easy, the weight of what he had to do was palpable.
It was romantic suspense as Jamie was in the middle of an investigation, and we often read about the clues he’s picking up, the things he remembers, etc. But there wasn’t a lot of action, which makes the last few scenes stand out. There are some tensions though, and it’s a gripping story.
It was my first book in this series but also the last in the series, but it was okay. There’s a nice conclusion to the series that didn’t mean too much for me, and some references to the other main characters in the series, but it was a great book as a standalone too.
Quickie
- Series: Federal K-9 #7 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romantic suspense #mafia romance #hidden identity #dogs
- Triggers: psychological abuse, violence, deaths, illness
- Main couple: Bella Bianco & Jamie Pataglio
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + well crafted suspense
- – the ‘(s)he’s so special and I don’t know why’ trope bothers me
At the center of the story was family love. Jamie has a strained relationship with his dad, but he’s willing to do anything to help him. On the other hand, Bella is family to her aunt and her cousin mostly in name, as they treat her more like a servant. But even then, she has some feelings for them. It was an interesting theme as a background noise. I enjoyed the subtelty of it, as it didn’t distract from the suspense and the love story.
I wasn’t a fan of how the romance started. Jamie is a serial lover, and Bella swore to herself she would never have a relationship with a mobster. Yet, they quickly fall for each other because they are so special. Except, they aren’t really? I had a hard time believing that Jamie never met a woman with a strong personality before Bella. And Bella had a handsome mobster doing nice things for her before but never fell for him. They were both interesting characters, don’t get me wrong. But their justification for ending up together didn’t really compute.
As for how their relationship developped, it was nice. They helped each other, supported each other, had great interactions. And despite Jamie hiding who he really was–he felt guilty for that too–they showed sides of themselves they didn’t usually showed, and their connection was heartfelt.
The plot was well thought out. Jamie is undercover with the mob because he made a deal with the FBI to help his father out of prison. He’s here to bring down Bella’s family. But between jealous and/or suspicious mobsters, less than helpful FBI agents, and his own feelings toward Bella, his job is cut out for him. Though a couple of timely coincidences made some aspects of his missions real easy, the weight of what he had to do was palpable.
It was romantic suspense as Jamie was in the middle of an investigation, and we often read about the clues he’s picking up, the things he remembers, etc. But there wasn’t a lot of action, which makes the last few scenes stand out. There are some tensions though, and it’s a gripping story.
It was my first book in this series but also the last in the series, but it was okay. There’s a nice conclusion to the series that didn’t mean too much for me, and some references to the other main characters in the series, but it was a great book as a standalone too.
Quickie
- Series: Federal K-9 #7 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romantic suspense #mafia romance #hidden identity #dogs
- Triggers: psychological abuse, violence, deaths, illness
- Main couple: Bella Bianco & Jamie Pataglio
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + well crafted suspense
- – the ‘(s)he’s so special and I don’t know why’ trope bothers me
October 25, 2023
* You don't need to read the previous books in this series, this is a standalone.
Jamie Pataglio has been trying to save his fathers life, by going undercover in the Mob and to uncover the dark dealings of the Manusco crime family. So after being locked up for six months and then infiltrating, he is looking to a successful mission and he even gets to take his K-9, Jax, with him undercover. The Manusco's operations are done from Bistro Bianco, who is owned by the only family member who wants nothing to do with the Mob business, but Bella is roped in despite her protests. Can Jamie convince the government that Bella is innocent or will he take down her family and her life with it.
Pro's:
+ Again, this author does not disappoint with the awesome dog characters and this book is a great example of that. Jax and Gnocchi feel like so life-like, with their own personalities and epic scenes. Loved it and definitely the strong point of the book.
+ This time not a murder mystery, but a Mob story. I did not see that coming, but the storyline was done really well and there was some epic tension to this story. It was kina violent, but this was more Mob stories for soft-hearted people, than true hard-core mob violence.
Con's:
- The story is predictable, especially when you know this will be a happy ending. when you're half way through the book you'll know there is only one path available and I was a bit bummed we didn't even get a nice twist to the ending.
Even though this is a good book with at least a unique story to the series, I also felt like this was one of the more predictable ones too. The author writes herself into a corner and that is quite noticeable in the ending. The dog characters were of the highest quality though and there were some funny moments with these outspoken characters. It was fun and I would definitely read books from this author again in the future.
As for the entire series, I hoped there would have been more of an overarching storyline connecting these men beyond there friendship and job-choice. I think it is a missed opportunity, but these books are all very easy to read and perfect books to read in between the heavier reads on your shelves. And dogs, dogs always make every story better.
Jamie Pataglio has been trying to save his fathers life, by going undercover in the Mob and to uncover the dark dealings of the Manusco crime family. So after being locked up for six months and then infiltrating, he is looking to a successful mission and he even gets to take his K-9, Jax, with him undercover. The Manusco's operations are done from Bistro Bianco, who is owned by the only family member who wants nothing to do with the Mob business, but Bella is roped in despite her protests. Can Jamie convince the government that Bella is innocent or will he take down her family and her life with it.
Pro's:
+ Again, this author does not disappoint with the awesome dog characters and this book is a great example of that. Jax and Gnocchi feel like so life-like, with their own personalities and epic scenes. Loved it and definitely the strong point of the book.
+ This time not a murder mystery, but a Mob story. I did not see that coming, but the storyline was done really well and there was some epic tension to this story. It was kina violent, but this was more Mob stories for soft-hearted people, than true hard-core mob violence.
Con's:
- The story is predictable, especially when you know this will be a happy ending. when you're half way through the book you'll know there is only one path available and I was a bit bummed we didn't even get a nice twist to the ending.
Even though this is a good book with at least a unique story to the series, I also felt like this was one of the more predictable ones too. The author writes herself into a corner and that is quite noticeable in the ending. The dog characters were of the highest quality though and there were some funny moments with these outspoken characters. It was fun and I would definitely read books from this author again in the future.
As for the entire series, I hoped there would have been more of an overarching storyline connecting these men beyond there friendship and job-choice. I think it is a missed opportunity, but these books are all very easy to read and perfect books to read in between the heavier reads on your shelves. And dogs, dogs always make every story better.
November 3, 2023
Jamie is a K9 Sergeant whose undercover assignment includes him being imprisoned so that he can penetrate the Mancusco family. Not that he has shown he is trustworthy to the family upon his release he has been accepted into the business and the only complication that arises are his feelings for Bella who is part of the family, but he is uncertain how big of a role she plays.
Bella may be part of the family, but it is not the life she wants. When she realizes the restaurant she is a partner in is being used for illegal purposes she has no where to turn. When she meets Jamie and his dog Jax there is no denying the connection between them, but she is hesitant as she wonders if he is just another person, she can’t trust in a lifestyle she wants no part of.
With the situation that Jamie and Bella find themselves there is uncertainty about each other which causes a little turmoil. When you combine that with the intrigue part of the story and feelings that both are unable to deny you are in for quite the adventure.
Bella may be part of the family, but it is not the life she wants. When she realizes the restaurant she is a partner in is being used for illegal purposes she has no where to turn. When she meets Jamie and his dog Jax there is no denying the connection between them, but she is hesitant as she wonders if he is just another person, she can’t trust in a lifestyle she wants no part of.
With the situation that Jamie and Bella find themselves there is uncertainty about each other which causes a little turmoil. When you combine that with the intrigue part of the story and feelings that both are unable to deny you are in for quite the adventure.
October 9, 2023
K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio is going undercover at a maximum security prison in order to infiltrate the Mancuso crime family. When he’s been accepted as part of the mob, he thinks he has it all figured out. The only problem is small and gorgeous, Bella Bianco.
Bella is part owner of the Italian bistro where her violent family uses it as their home base. Bella seems to be guilty by association and wants to find a way out.
Bella and Jamie can’t be trusted together. They both want to break free of their circumstances and they don’t have a choice, they have to take down Bella’s family, and if anyone finds out they’re working together…they’re both dead.
This was an interesting book focusing on a Port Authority K-9 Sergeant and his dog Jax. I loved that he was going undercover for his dad to get cancer treatment, it was very sweet and made me enjoy his character that much more. Bella was well thought out and done as well. I did feel that some of the elements of this story were a little far fetched and maybe not as well researched as I’d like, but if you don’t think too hard it will be okay. This was a really sweet book, and how can you not love a book featuring an amazing dog and some spice between the main characters?
If you are looking for a wonderful romantic suspense novel, then check this one out.
This is the seventh book written by this author featuring a man in uniform and their K9 companion. All the books are stand alone and can be read individually.
Thank you so much to @tlcbooktours, the publisher, and netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars rounded to 4
Bella is part owner of the Italian bistro where her violent family uses it as their home base. Bella seems to be guilty by association and wants to find a way out.
Bella and Jamie can’t be trusted together. They both want to break free of their circumstances and they don’t have a choice, they have to take down Bella’s family, and if anyone finds out they’re working together…they’re both dead.
This was an interesting book focusing on a Port Authority K-9 Sergeant and his dog Jax. I loved that he was going undercover for his dad to get cancer treatment, it was very sweet and made me enjoy his character that much more. Bella was well thought out and done as well. I did feel that some of the elements of this story were a little far fetched and maybe not as well researched as I’d like, but if you don’t think too hard it will be okay. This was a really sweet book, and how can you not love a book featuring an amazing dog and some spice between the main characters?
If you are looking for a wonderful romantic suspense novel, then check this one out.
This is the seventh book written by this author featuring a man in uniform and their K9 companion. All the books are stand alone and can be read individually.
Thank you so much to @tlcbooktours, the publisher, and netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars rounded to 4
October 6, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Publisher via NetGalley***
DNF at 17%
Admittedly it's probably just me...but I can't get past the author describing the hero as having a satanic beard or saying that was the name that came to mind for him.
I'm unable to recommend this title and choose not to finish it.
DNF at 17%
Admittedly it's probably just me...but I can't get past the author describing the hero as having a satanic beard or saying that was the name that came to mind for him.
I'm unable to recommend this title and choose not to finish it.
October 1, 2023
As soon as I saw the book synopsis, I knew this would be a book I binge in a day. And I was right! I absolutely adore the premise of an undercover cop and a mafia-by-blood heroine who wants nothing to do with crime. Plus, there is a cute dog on the cover, and he is just as adorable in the book. Makes me want to go adopt a German Shepherd, even though I am nowhere near equipped to handle a dog like that. The plot also contains workplace romance, with the hero working for the heroine as a bartender who also happens to know how to make latte foam art. Be still my heart! Couple that cuteness with the shadowy undertones of mafia activity taking place in our heroine's restaurant, and you have a roller coaster of a romance that will latch on and not let go until it's over.
K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio is on a mission - do an undercover job exposing the mafia dealings of Paula Mancuso, and if successful in gathering evidence, his father will be ensured parole. Knowing it's a life or death situation for his father makes Jamie's job easier...until he meets the niece of his target, Bella Bianco. All Bella wants is to own her restaurant outright, so she can get far away from her aunt and her shady mafia dealings. Finding out Paula is using the restaurant for a money laundering scheme is her last straw, but what can she do when it means betraying not just her family but losing her beloved business? Not to mention she's now developed feelings for a mobster, which she swore she would never do. But her cousin's newest enforcer is kind, generous and looks out for her, and she is having a hard time resisting. She knows she can't really trust him, and Jamie knows she shouldn't trust him at all with her business given the task at hand, but soon they're unable to resist the passion between them. And now they both have a similar goal, which will either lead to Paula behind bars or both of them dead.
This couple was so perfect for each other, almost too perfect for words. You can never go wrong with a hero who loves dogs, and just the fact that he owned such a lovable and protective dog like Jax made me weak in the knees. Apparently it made Bella feel the same way, especially after she got a pooch of her own, which Jamie took care of above and beyond the call of duty. I loved Bella's character - she had such a strong backbone, standing up for herself in the face of such scary people like the ones in her family. She had lived with them for so long, seen what damage they could do, but she still stood toe to toe to ensure she was heard. It may not have worked in getting what she wanted, but oh, I was rooting for her so much. She was not going down without a fight, even through to the end. Jamie was so protective, and what I loved most about this couple was that he was not overly protective and she knew when to let him take the lead. There were not TSTL moments, where I wanted to shake one or the other. It was all so genuine and realistic, and it showed how much faith they had in each other. The ending made me want to cry happy tears, so keep a box of tissues handy. You'll need them.
I always enjoy books by this author, and this one is no exception. As always check for triggers given the mafia content, but if no concerns there, I think you all will love this.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio is on a mission - do an undercover job exposing the mafia dealings of Paula Mancuso, and if successful in gathering evidence, his father will be ensured parole. Knowing it's a life or death situation for his father makes Jamie's job easier...until he meets the niece of his target, Bella Bianco. All Bella wants is to own her restaurant outright, so she can get far away from her aunt and her shady mafia dealings. Finding out Paula is using the restaurant for a money laundering scheme is her last straw, but what can she do when it means betraying not just her family but losing her beloved business? Not to mention she's now developed feelings for a mobster, which she swore she would never do. But her cousin's newest enforcer is kind, generous and looks out for her, and she is having a hard time resisting. She knows she can't really trust him, and Jamie knows she shouldn't trust him at all with her business given the task at hand, but soon they're unable to resist the passion between them. And now they both have a similar goal, which will either lead to Paula behind bars or both of them dead.
This couple was so perfect for each other, almost too perfect for words. You can never go wrong with a hero who loves dogs, and just the fact that he owned such a lovable and protective dog like Jax made me weak in the knees. Apparently it made Bella feel the same way, especially after she got a pooch of her own, which Jamie took care of above and beyond the call of duty. I loved Bella's character - she had such a strong backbone, standing up for herself in the face of such scary people like the ones in her family. She had lived with them for so long, seen what damage they could do, but she still stood toe to toe to ensure she was heard. It may not have worked in getting what she wanted, but oh, I was rooting for her so much. She was not going down without a fight, even through to the end. Jamie was so protective, and what I loved most about this couple was that he was not overly protective and she knew when to let him take the lead. There were not TSTL moments, where I wanted to shake one or the other. It was all so genuine and realistic, and it showed how much faith they had in each other. The ending made me want to cry happy tears, so keep a box of tissues handy. You'll need them.
I always enjoy books by this author, and this one is no exception. As always check for triggers given the mafia content, but if no concerns there, I think you all will love this.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
October 8, 2023
4.5⭐
Above 'N' Beyond brings the rather enjoyable Federal K-9 series to an end.
As undercover K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio takes on the biggest assignment of his career and probably the most dangerous and personal.
As he infiltrates a well-known and extremely dangerous crime family in order to get his dad out of prison to undergo cancer treatment and take the Mancuso family down.
And everything goes to plan until he meets Bella, the niece of the Mancuso "godmother", and the co-owner of the bistro where the family run their business from. Something Bella is powerless to stop and a total innocent in the world her family inhabits.
And someone Jamie immediately connects with and is attracted too.
But he can't risk her finding out who he really is.
Yet, as the danger mounts and the pair get closer Jamie struggles to keep his cover intact and protect the woman he's falling for.
But will Bella be able to forgive Jamie when she learns the truth and more importantly will Jamie be around to find out.
And with the perfect amount of suspense and romance. Not to mention such an engaging storyline and really likable characters including Jax, Jason's K-9 companion. This was a really enjoyable end to an engaing series, and honestly I think this has been my favourite one.
I would happily recommend Above 'N' Beyond to all.
My thanks to Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review. 😊
Above 'N' Beyond brings the rather enjoyable Federal K-9 series to an end.
As undercover K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio takes on the biggest assignment of his career and probably the most dangerous and personal.
As he infiltrates a well-known and extremely dangerous crime family in order to get his dad out of prison to undergo cancer treatment and take the Mancuso family down.
And everything goes to plan until he meets Bella, the niece of the Mancuso "godmother", and the co-owner of the bistro where the family run their business from. Something Bella is powerless to stop and a total innocent in the world her family inhabits.
And someone Jamie immediately connects with and is attracted too.
But he can't risk her finding out who he really is.
Yet, as the danger mounts and the pair get closer Jamie struggles to keep his cover intact and protect the woman he's falling for.
But will Bella be able to forgive Jamie when she learns the truth and more importantly will Jamie be around to find out.
And with the perfect amount of suspense and romance. Not to mention such an engaging storyline and really likable characters including Jax, Jason's K-9 companion. This was a really enjoyable end to an engaing series, and honestly I think this has been my favourite one.
I would happily recommend Above 'N' Beyond to all.
My thanks to Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review. 😊
December 19, 2023
I’m so sad that we’ve reached the end of the road with this series. But what a great book to end the series with, I think. It gave a really wholesome feeling.
I really loved the whole undercover maffia scene. There’s s very good build up present, maybe not as much suspense as in previous books, and I again love love love the romance between the MC’s! I do sometimes feel like the K9 is being humanised a bit too much, like how he can understand really everything that’s being said to him like full sentences. That’s even for a K9 dog not realistic. But overall, the dogs are a fun presence in the story and I really loved the added puppy as well haha!
It was a solid written book, a good closure on the series - even though I do feel sorry that this is the end - and an overall delightful reading experience for me. Really happy that I was able to read and review this book for the publisher and especially the author, whom I really admire! I can’t get enough of Tee’s books and can’t wait to see what more there’s to come from her in the (nearby) future.
I really loved the whole undercover maffia scene. There’s s very good build up present, maybe not as much suspense as in previous books, and I again love love love the romance between the MC’s! I do sometimes feel like the K9 is being humanised a bit too much, like how he can understand really everything that’s being said to him like full sentences. That’s even for a K9 dog not realistic. But overall, the dogs are a fun presence in the story and I really loved the added puppy as well haha!
It was a solid written book, a good closure on the series - even though I do feel sorry that this is the end - and an overall delightful reading experience for me. Really happy that I was able to read and review this book for the publisher and especially the author, whom I really admire! I can’t get enough of Tee’s books and can’t wait to see what more there’s to come from her in the (nearby) future.
October 24, 2023
This was a tough one, Jamie was in a loose/loose situation and up until that happened he was walking a fine line, one where his life was on the line at every moment. I hated that Jamie couldn't tell the truth to Bella, but he did try to be his good self around her. It's just things went to shit fast at the end and Jamie had to react without much planning. It didn't help that it looked like the FBI was going to reneg on his deal, glad that Jamie held them hostage to get what he deserved. Also glad that Jamie's father butted in and helped get Jamie together with Bella. The ending was perfect for these 2, a new beginning, with shades of the past, surrounded by lots of people who actually cared for them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2024
I met Tee O’Fallon at a book conference about 8 years ago and have enjoyed reading her books ever since. Who doesn’t love a good K-9 story! And with Tee’s personal experience the books are always written accurately and well.
Above N Beyond is the last book in this series. Each book can be read as a stand alone but it is fun to see other characters appear.
I am not usually fan of any mafia book but trusted Tee to do it well and she did. Jamie is a federal agent who agrees to go undercover with a mafia family in order to get his dad who is dying of cancer out of prison.
Bella is the niece in the mafia family. He rents an apartment from her. It is a slow burn romance but has some steam.
Another great story by Tee.
Above N Beyond is the last book in this series. Each book can be read as a stand alone but it is fun to see other characters appear.
I am not usually fan of any mafia book but trusted Tee to do it well and she did. Jamie is a federal agent who agrees to go undercover with a mafia family in order to get his dad who is dying of cancer out of prison.
Bella is the niece in the mafia family. He rents an apartment from her. It is a slow burn romance but has some steam.
Another great story by Tee.
September 27, 2023
Twist on the mafia/undercover cop that hits the mark! The best part, the dogs are part of the key team and it definitely works. A lot of action and threat - with an overly ambitious female "Godmother" that makes quite the villain. Our hero is of course brooding and hot and our heroine is caught in a tough spot with a nice slow burn going on - the story is strong and pulls you in. Jax, our working dog hero, saves the day more than once and even gets a little buddy. Another winner!
October 19, 2023
What an amazing wrap up to the federal K-9 series. From the opening page the suspense and danger was overwhelming. So many twists and turns you couldn’t relax for a minute. If you like romantic suspense with some amazing K-9’s grab this series.
January 1, 2024
Above 'N' Beyond is an AMAZING romantic suspense by Tee O'Fallon. This is Book #7 in the Federal K-9 series and can be read as a standalone.
Determined to bring down the Manusco Crime Family to help his father, Sergeant Jamie Pataglio and his K9 Jax go undercover for the FBI and in the process meet Bella Bianco who turns his world upside down in this fast paced, slow burn, steamy, mob romance story. If you want a captivating story this is your book. Being the first book in this series as well as by this author that I have read I was beyond Amazed and couldn’t put it down.
I was sent this ARC from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing and am voluntarily reading and reviewing this copy.
Determined to bring down the Manusco Crime Family to help his father, Sergeant Jamie Pataglio and his K9 Jax go undercover for the FBI and in the process meet Bella Bianco who turns his world upside down in this fast paced, slow burn, steamy, mob romance story. If you want a captivating story this is your book. Being the first book in this series as well as by this author that I have read I was beyond Amazed and couldn’t put it down.
I was sent this ARC from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing and am voluntarily reading and reviewing this copy.
November 6, 2023
This new installment of the series kept me on the edge of my seat while reading. It is a story filled with tension and suspense entwined with romance. Perfect reading material for the start of the chilly weather. I've read several books in the series, and I can say that every single one can be considered as a standalone even though the characters are reappearing in the books. I enjoyed reading this one as I enjoyed reading the previous installments. Highly recommend it to everyone who wants to read this kind of book.
December 11, 2023
Jamie is an undercover cop infiltrating the mob in this engrossing tale of deception, crime and love.
Bella owns a restaurant with her only living relative, Paola, who runs a crime syndicate. Bella and Paola don't agree on all of the illegal activities going through her bistro but she is powerless to stop it.
Enter Jamie and his K9 Jax. Jax is a German Shepherd who steals the show from the moment you meet him. He can take down criminals one moment and be as gentle as a lamb with children the next moment. Not to far from his partner Jamie who is a recovered bad boy turned cop trying to get his dad out of prison with this undercover mission.
In between the expertly crafted suspense of this story is a little stray named Gnocchi. He and Jax become fast friends when they meet and, like Bella, he gains his confidence and becomes his true self during the story.
This was my first read by this author but I have heard of her often. This book can stand alone but it is part of a series that you will want to go pick up. All of the ones in the series have dogs so all of you dog lovers out there will be delighted with any of the books in the series that you pick up!
Bella owns a restaurant with her only living relative, Paola, who runs a crime syndicate. Bella and Paola don't agree on all of the illegal activities going through her bistro but she is powerless to stop it.
Enter Jamie and his K9 Jax. Jax is a German Shepherd who steals the show from the moment you meet him. He can take down criminals one moment and be as gentle as a lamb with children the next moment. Not to far from his partner Jamie who is a recovered bad boy turned cop trying to get his dad out of prison with this undercover mission.
In between the expertly crafted suspense of this story is a little stray named Gnocchi. He and Jax become fast friends when they meet and, like Bella, he gains his confidence and becomes his true self during the story.
This was my first read by this author but I have heard of her often. This book can stand alone but it is part of a series that you will want to go pick up. All of the ones in the series have dogs so all of you dog lovers out there will be delighted with any of the books in the series that you pick up!
October 18, 2024
Oh my... The first time that I read a book by this author I ended up going back online and buying (and reading) every book by her that I found. This one was no exception. Above'n Beyond fits the book well as it also went above and beyond and was sooo good. Thus is such an amazing series by a really talented author. Well written, well plotted - and it kept me glued to my kindle from the first page till the last.
December 27, 2023
I feel like this book could have been great, I loved the idea but the female main character being so OBSESSED with calories really turned me off from wanting to finish the book. This author just may not be for me.
October 16, 2023
Dnf at 30%. This is not for me. I feel like this book could have been great. I also struggle with the writing style and the characters in it.
Thank you Entangled Publishing and Tee O'Fallon for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you Entangled Publishing and Tee O'Fallon for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review
October 10, 2023
Talk about ending an excellent, romantic suspense series with a bang--Tee O'Fallon has done just that in Above 'N' Beyond, the 7th and final novel in her Federal K-9 series. It gets 5 stars from this reader.
Jamie is a K-9 Port Authority officer who has been working deep undercover as Jimmy, a felon in a maximum security prison for the past 6 months, planted there and tasked by the FBI to get close to a prisoner, Tony Mancuso, capo of the Mancuso crime family, and he does so by managing to foil a set-up attempt by another inmate to shank Tony, who, thanks to saving Tony's life, gets Jamie/Jimmy into Tony's good graces, and once they are released, Tony brings him to meet his mother, Paola, the real Godmother of the crime family. Paola runs her shady operation through her niece, Bella's popular Italian bistro.
Bella, is indebted to Paola for raising her, and for loaning her some of the money she needed to buy the restaurant, but Bella has been kept in the dark about the financial end of the business, since Paola owns 51% of the restaurant to Bella's 49%. Paola promised Bella that once Bella had enough money to buy her out, Paola would sell her half to Bella--but that's just not happening. When Bella realizes that her bistro is being used to launder mob money, she realizes just how blind she was and that she's been duped, but there's nothing she can do about it.
Enter the newly released ex-con that saved Tony's life in prison, Jamie/Jimmy, a tall, strong, handsome man who is kind to Bella and to the rest of the bistro staff. Bella's hard and fast rule is to never date a made man, although both Tony and his next-in-line crony, Marcus, have tried and failed to woo Bella. It doesn't hurt that Jamie/Jimmy, has Jax, his K-9 companion, or that Bella loves dogs. Jamie still has to prove himself to the family, but even as he does so, his beloved K-9 companion, and his kindness and treatment of Bella and her employees help to win Bella over, but cautiously.
What follows is an action-packed read that kept me turning pages until the wee hours of the morning. Yes, there's violence, but there's also a strong emotional connection between the two main characters, although it does get pretty rocky when Jamie's real identity is established, and Bella realizes she's been used, not just by her mob family, but by Jamie himself. How will it all end? You'll just have to read this exciting, well-written novel for yourself. Since the epilogue includes the other K-9's and their owners who appeared in the first 6 books in the series, I recommend starting at the beginning, and reading these novels in the order they were written--they are all terrific reads.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel, The opinions expressed are my own.
Jamie is a K-9 Port Authority officer who has been working deep undercover as Jimmy, a felon in a maximum security prison for the past 6 months, planted there and tasked by the FBI to get close to a prisoner, Tony Mancuso, capo of the Mancuso crime family, and he does so by managing to foil a set-up attempt by another inmate to shank Tony, who, thanks to saving Tony's life, gets Jamie/Jimmy into Tony's good graces, and once they are released, Tony brings him to meet his mother, Paola, the real Godmother of the crime family. Paola runs her shady operation through her niece, Bella's popular Italian bistro.
Bella, is indebted to Paola for raising her, and for loaning her some of the money she needed to buy the restaurant, but Bella has been kept in the dark about the financial end of the business, since Paola owns 51% of the restaurant to Bella's 49%. Paola promised Bella that once Bella had enough money to buy her out, Paola would sell her half to Bella--but that's just not happening. When Bella realizes that her bistro is being used to launder mob money, she realizes just how blind she was and that she's been duped, but there's nothing she can do about it.
Enter the newly released ex-con that saved Tony's life in prison, Jamie/Jimmy, a tall, strong, handsome man who is kind to Bella and to the rest of the bistro staff. Bella's hard and fast rule is to never date a made man, although both Tony and his next-in-line crony, Marcus, have tried and failed to woo Bella. It doesn't hurt that Jamie/Jimmy, has Jax, his K-9 companion, or that Bella loves dogs. Jamie still has to prove himself to the family, but even as he does so, his beloved K-9 companion, and his kindness and treatment of Bella and her employees help to win Bella over, but cautiously.
What follows is an action-packed read that kept me turning pages until the wee hours of the morning. Yes, there's violence, but there's also a strong emotional connection between the two main characters, although it does get pretty rocky when Jamie's real identity is established, and Bella realizes she's been used, not just by her mob family, but by Jamie himself. How will it all end? You'll just have to read this exciting, well-written novel for yourself. Since the epilogue includes the other K-9's and their owners who appeared in the first 6 books in the series, I recommend starting at the beginning, and reading these novels in the order they were written--they are all terrific reads.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel, The opinions expressed are my own.
October 16, 2023
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've read all the Federal K-9 series. Each of the guys and their dog work for a different federal agency but they know each other through K-9 training and some inter-agency operations. Above N Beyond is the final book in the series. Each book could be read standalone although the other guys show up in them.
Jamie is a sergeant in the Port Authority. He agrees to go undercover if they will parole his father early so he can get cancer treatment. He has to go in prison for 6 months to establish his badness to get in with the Mancuso crime family. It's set up for him to save Tony Mancuso's life. Tony and Jamie get out together and he starts working with the mobsters.
But Jamie is attracted to Bella who runs the bistro which is the base for their money laundering. He starts helping at the restaurant and they just become more attracted and involved. It's very dangerous for them both. One of the other men has always wanted Bella so he hates Jamie. Jamie knows that when the criminal organization is taken down she will lose the restaurant which she has worked to build over the years.
Bella knows better than to get involved with any mobsters. It's bad enough that her aunt and cousin, Tony, treat her like a servant and use the restaurant for their meetings. She wants to buy her aunt out but the aunt won't consider it. So Bella is stuck with the criminals and could be convicted right along with them.
The situation is suspenseful. Jamie or Bella could be killed any time by the criminal family. Jamie's father could die of cancer before he is able to get evidence for conviction so the FBI agrees to do a deal for his release. Bella could find out Jamie is a cop and never want to see him again. The tension was rock beating on me. It was a good ending with the other guys showing up for a party, to see them all again.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've read all the Federal K-9 series. Each of the guys and their dog work for a different federal agency but they know each other through K-9 training and some inter-agency operations. Above N Beyond is the final book in the series. Each book could be read standalone although the other guys show up in them.
Jamie is a sergeant in the Port Authority. He agrees to go undercover if they will parole his father early so he can get cancer treatment. He has to go in prison for 6 months to establish his badness to get in with the Mancuso crime family. It's set up for him to save Tony Mancuso's life. Tony and Jamie get out together and he starts working with the mobsters.
But Jamie is attracted to Bella who runs the bistro which is the base for their money laundering. He starts helping at the restaurant and they just become more attracted and involved. It's very dangerous for them both. One of the other men has always wanted Bella so he hates Jamie. Jamie knows that when the criminal organization is taken down she will lose the restaurant which she has worked to build over the years.
Bella knows better than to get involved with any mobsters. It's bad enough that her aunt and cousin, Tony, treat her like a servant and use the restaurant for their meetings. She wants to buy her aunt out but the aunt won't consider it. So Bella is stuck with the criminals and could be convicted right along with them.
The situation is suspenseful. Jamie or Bella could be killed any time by the criminal family. Jamie's father could die of cancer before he is able to get evidence for conviction so the FBI agrees to do a deal for his release. Bella could find out Jamie is a cop and never want to see him again. The tension was rock beating on me. It was a good ending with the other guys showing up for a party, to see them all again.
October 4, 2023
Rating: 4.5/5
Pub: 10/17/23
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
This book is the number 7 in the series, and it is the last book. You don’t have to read them in order but man I wish that I would have read the others before this one because it would have given me a little bit more about the side characters (Jamie's friends) and honestly this author knows how to write. This was my first Tee O’Fallon book, and it will not be my last one. I can’t wait to read the other books of this series. This book was fast paced, and easy to read. You will find yourself at the end of the book before you even know it and will leave you wanting more, but luckily for me I have the first six to read now.
In this book you will meet Jamie, who is an undercover cop that infiltrates a mob family and gets evidence to take them down. However, while he is infiltrating the family, he falls for the cousin of the person he has befriended to get in good with the mob. Bella is a sweet and kind woman; she doesn’t date mobsters at all, and she has a real hate for her aunt and her way of always holding Bella under her thumb. You will also get to meet some cute dogs in this book, Jax and Gnocchi. I liked both dogs a lot, but I loved Jax the most, he is such a sweetheart and protective.
I thought the characters in the book were well developed, they had moments of growth, they were likeable and easy to connect with. Bella was easy to connect with for me because I could relate to her on a few things and if I was in her shoes, I would have probably done the same thing when I found out the truth from Jamie about who he really was. Jamie is a sweetheart deep inside and when he meets Bella he wants to change and do better for her. You see the changes in him, but you also see that he really doesn’t see himself the way the reader does or the way that Bella does. You will watch these characters come to accept what life has given them for now but then you will watch them fight for what they want: love, acceptance, freedom, family and more. I loved getting to watch their journey throughout this book and I hope that you will as well.
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Pub for the opportunity to review this book.
Pub: 10/17/23
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
This book is the number 7 in the series, and it is the last book. You don’t have to read them in order but man I wish that I would have read the others before this one because it would have given me a little bit more about the side characters (Jamie's friends) and honestly this author knows how to write. This was my first Tee O’Fallon book, and it will not be my last one. I can’t wait to read the other books of this series. This book was fast paced, and easy to read. You will find yourself at the end of the book before you even know it and will leave you wanting more, but luckily for me I have the first six to read now.
In this book you will meet Jamie, who is an undercover cop that infiltrates a mob family and gets evidence to take them down. However, while he is infiltrating the family, he falls for the cousin of the person he has befriended to get in good with the mob. Bella is a sweet and kind woman; she doesn’t date mobsters at all, and she has a real hate for her aunt and her way of always holding Bella under her thumb. You will also get to meet some cute dogs in this book, Jax and Gnocchi. I liked both dogs a lot, but I loved Jax the most, he is such a sweetheart and protective.
I thought the characters in the book were well developed, they had moments of growth, they were likeable and easy to connect with. Bella was easy to connect with for me because I could relate to her on a few things and if I was in her shoes, I would have probably done the same thing when I found out the truth from Jamie about who he really was. Jamie is a sweetheart deep inside and when he meets Bella he wants to change and do better for her. You see the changes in him, but you also see that he really doesn’t see himself the way the reader does or the way that Bella does. You will watch these characters come to accept what life has given them for now but then you will watch them fight for what they want: love, acceptance, freedom, family and more. I loved getting to watch their journey throughout this book and I hope that you will as well.
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Pub for the opportunity to review this book.
April 28, 2024
I know, I know, I say this every time. But Tee O'Fallon really is my exception to the rule, and I honestly think this is my new favorite of hers! I swear my delay between reading and reviewing is not a reflection of the book's quality but of how busy I've been!
I think it's because this book combined all of my favorite things. It was a mafia romance, undercover, romantic suspense all wrapped up in one book. I knew just a few chapters in that I was going to love it; I'm pretty sure I texted one of my friends a screenshot like, "holy crap, this was written for me" 😂 The pacing in all of her books is always spot on, and I devoured this in about a day. I actually made myself slow down at the end because I really wanted to savor it.
I also feel like this would be a good jumping-in point for anyone who reads a lot of either dark romance or mafia romance but who hasn't really gotten into romantic suspense. Since this combines many of those elements, it would be a great place to start, and then you can get hooked and go back and read the rest of the series!
I have two incredibly niche things that I would have liked to have seen, and one of them is absolutely a me problem. The first is that I kept getting confused by Jamie's name. Again, see sleep-deprived and busy me, but the switch between "Jamie" and "Jimmy" kept throwing me off. The second thing is only a wish because of how much I love this series, but I really wanted to see more from the rest of the guys POV when the crew came in to save everyone at the end. I love the comradery you get in this series and seeing how much this group cares about one another. I selfishly wanted to see that moment of "oh my god he's asking for help let's go get our boy", so I'll just imagine it in my mind!
Every time I read one of her books, she reminds me of why I love romantic suspense so much. Tee O'Fallon is really one of the best in the genre, and like usual, I'll be waiting for whatever she brings us next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided to me through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author and Entangled Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
I think it's because this book combined all of my favorite things. It was a mafia romance, undercover, romantic suspense all wrapped up in one book. I knew just a few chapters in that I was going to love it; I'm pretty sure I texted one of my friends a screenshot like, "holy crap, this was written for me" 😂 The pacing in all of her books is always spot on, and I devoured this in about a day. I actually made myself slow down at the end because I really wanted to savor it.
I also feel like this would be a good jumping-in point for anyone who reads a lot of either dark romance or mafia romance but who hasn't really gotten into romantic suspense. Since this combines many of those elements, it would be a great place to start, and then you can get hooked and go back and read the rest of the series!
I have two incredibly niche things that I would have liked to have seen, and one of them is absolutely a me problem. The first is that I kept getting confused by Jamie's name. Again, see sleep-deprived and busy me, but the switch between "Jamie" and "Jimmy" kept throwing me off. The second thing is only a wish because of how much I love this series, but I really wanted to see more from the rest of the guys POV when the crew came in to save everyone at the end. I love the comradery you get in this series and seeing how much this group cares about one another. I selfishly wanted to see that moment of "oh my god he's asking for help let's go get our boy", so I'll just imagine it in my mind!
Every time I read one of her books, she reminds me of why I love romantic suspense so much. Tee O'Fallon is really one of the best in the genre, and like usual, I'll be waiting for whatever she brings us next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided to me through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author and Entangled Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
September 28, 2023
I've read several of this author's books—most involving K-9s—and have had mixed reactions, some hitting high notes and others just fair to middling. This one is one of the better ones. Both Jaime and Bella are characters to root for, even if their pooches frequently steal the limelight.
Jamie exemplifies the person who will do anything for his loved ones. Unfortunately, he has a low opinion of himself and his worth, though his reasons aren't very convincing. Bella is trapped between a hard place and a harder place. We've all seen those mafia movies and know that it's virtually impossible to ever escape from their clutches. But for an HEA to happen, escape has to happen here.
That's where the story strains credulity a little bit. Jaime takes great care to keep his true identity a secret, and he supposedly has a phone with no contacts on it in case the mafia checks it. But then he frequently gets calls and texts and leaves his phone in random places (well at least during sexy times). He also runs on the assumption that his place and Bella's are bug free. If I were a mobster, this would be the first places I'd hide a bug. One might argue that this particular branch of the mob isn't large or particularly important and thus lacks the practical experience bigger players have, and that argument wouldn't be wrong. But it just made Jaime come off a little clumsy sometimes.
I believe this book is the last of a very long series, and I imagine that series fans will love seeing couples from previous books again (mostly towards the end). Fortunately, for those not familiar with the series or who can't remember details, not too much time in spent trying to integrate these characters into this novel. In that regard, it works very well as a standalone.
Overall, I liked this book, and I like this author. I'll definitely pick up more books by her in the future.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Jamie exemplifies the person who will do anything for his loved ones. Unfortunately, he has a low opinion of himself and his worth, though his reasons aren't very convincing. Bella is trapped between a hard place and a harder place. We've all seen those mafia movies and know that it's virtually impossible to ever escape from their clutches. But for an HEA to happen, escape has to happen here.
That's where the story strains credulity a little bit. Jaime takes great care to keep his true identity a secret, and he supposedly has a phone with no contacts on it in case the mafia checks it. But then he frequently gets calls and texts and leaves his phone in random places (well at least during sexy times). He also runs on the assumption that his place and Bella's are bug free. If I were a mobster, this would be the first places I'd hide a bug. One might argue that this particular branch of the mob isn't large or particularly important and thus lacks the practical experience bigger players have, and that argument wouldn't be wrong. But it just made Jaime come off a little clumsy sometimes.
I believe this book is the last of a very long series, and I imagine that series fans will love seeing couples from previous books again (mostly towards the end). Fortunately, for those not familiar with the series or who can't remember details, not too much time in spent trying to integrate these characters into this novel. In that regard, it works very well as a standalone.
Overall, I liked this book, and I like this author. I'll definitely pick up more books by her in the future.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
October 17, 2023
K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio, went undercover in a maximum-security prison in order to get inside the Mancusco crime family. After six months of work, he is finally in and can leave the prison a free man, and stepping into the case that will hopefully help him win his sick father's freedom. He expected the danger, the crime, and the unknown. What he did not expect is Bella Bianco.
Bella Bianco, is believed to be a part of the crime family and is a person of interest of the FBI, but she is an unwilling participant and she wants her Bistro to be hers and hers alone. Her aunt refuses to sell her her part of the Bistro, and leaves Bella to do things she never thought she would have to do. When she first meets Jamie's undercover persona she was immediately drawn to him. The more she gets to know him the more unexpected he becomes. If anyone finds out the secrets these two hold, their life could end up in jeopardy.
After reading the other six books in the Federal K-9 series, we never got to really know Jamie. He was a mysterious character that would appear and his friends would ask questions and then he would disappear again. I was glad to finally get to know Jamie and he was everything and more that we have learned the characters in this series are. I kept rooting for these two characters to get everything they want. I loved how well the emotional aspect of these characters was written, and you feel them right along with them. So don't forget your box of tissues. While the initial part of their relationship was built on a lie, they get to know each other, and the truth does come out. I loved how his friends were right there for him as soon as he called to have his back. The guys in this series are stand up guys, and guys us women wish were standing at our backs. I always know I am diving into a binge read and an awesome book when I pick up a book from Tee O'Fallon and this book is no different. I highly recommend this book, this series, and any book by this author.
I received this ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review from NetGalley.
Bella Bianco, is believed to be a part of the crime family and is a person of interest of the FBI, but she is an unwilling participant and she wants her Bistro to be hers and hers alone. Her aunt refuses to sell her her part of the Bistro, and leaves Bella to do things she never thought she would have to do. When she first meets Jamie's undercover persona she was immediately drawn to him. The more she gets to know him the more unexpected he becomes. If anyone finds out the secrets these two hold, their life could end up in jeopardy.
After reading the other six books in the Federal K-9 series, we never got to really know Jamie. He was a mysterious character that would appear and his friends would ask questions and then he would disappear again. I was glad to finally get to know Jamie and he was everything and more that we have learned the characters in this series are. I kept rooting for these two characters to get everything they want. I loved how well the emotional aspect of these characters was written, and you feel them right along with them. So don't forget your box of tissues. While the initial part of their relationship was built on a lie, they get to know each other, and the truth does come out. I loved how his friends were right there for him as soon as he called to have his back. The guys in this series are stand up guys, and guys us women wish were standing at our backs. I always know I am diving into a binge read and an awesome book when I pick up a book from Tee O'Fallon and this book is no different. I highly recommend this book, this series, and any book by this author.
I received this ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review from NetGalley.
October 11, 2023
Loved everything about this book! Had you hooked from the very first chapter to the very end, The author knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time!
The story follows Port Authority K-9 Sergeant, Jamie Pataglio, who infiltrates an Italian mafia group as “The Fist” aka Jimmy Santoro. Jamie is undercover to take down the Mancuso crime family. His motivation to take such a risk —to get his dad out of prison for early parole. After saving Tony Mancuso’s life in prison, Jamie gets into his good graces and receives an invitation to meet up when he got out of prison. Taking his K-9 companion, Jax, alongside with him, he hoped to make a slam dunk case and fast. However, Jamie didn’t anticipate meeting someone as beautiful as Tony’s cousin, Bella and coming to fall in love with her. Bella, raised by her aunt Paola, and mastermind of the Mancuso family, always had the dream of owning her own restaurant. When Paola helps her start her own restaurant, she didn’t anticipate that the motives to help her would go as far as using her and the restaurant for the headquarters to the crime organization. Feeling trapped in her aunt’s workings, she meets Jimmy (aka Jamie), and she had an immediate attraction to him. She tried to resist but fate had other plans.
What started out as getting close to her to find out more information on the Mancuso family, turns into more than just an attraction for Jamie. One that proves to make his undercover position much harder than he anticipated. This action packed book was so well done. There is some foul language and open door scenes but nothing overly graphic. The author does a great job creating such a deep connection in addition to explosive chemistry between Jamie and Bella that have you rooting for their relationship to survive. Their route to happily ever after is not easy and definitely encounters many obstacles but trust me the entire ride is worth it!
The story follows Port Authority K-9 Sergeant, Jamie Pataglio, who infiltrates an Italian mafia group as “The Fist” aka Jimmy Santoro. Jamie is undercover to take down the Mancuso crime family. His motivation to take such a risk —to get his dad out of prison for early parole. After saving Tony Mancuso’s life in prison, Jamie gets into his good graces and receives an invitation to meet up when he got out of prison. Taking his K-9 companion, Jax, alongside with him, he hoped to make a slam dunk case and fast. However, Jamie didn’t anticipate meeting someone as beautiful as Tony’s cousin, Bella and coming to fall in love with her. Bella, raised by her aunt Paola, and mastermind of the Mancuso family, always had the dream of owning her own restaurant. When Paola helps her start her own restaurant, she didn’t anticipate that the motives to help her would go as far as using her and the restaurant for the headquarters to the crime organization. Feeling trapped in her aunt’s workings, she meets Jimmy (aka Jamie), and she had an immediate attraction to him. She tried to resist but fate had other plans.
What started out as getting close to her to find out more information on the Mancuso family, turns into more than just an attraction for Jamie. One that proves to make his undercover position much harder than he anticipated. This action packed book was so well done. There is some foul language and open door scenes but nothing overly graphic. The author does a great job creating such a deep connection in addition to explosive chemistry between Jamie and Bella that have you rooting for their relationship to survive. Their route to happily ever after is not easy and definitely encounters many obstacles but trust me the entire ride is worth it!
October 14, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ romance, dogs and family make a great story.
Above ‘N’ Beyond is the 7th and final book 😞 in the Federal K9 series featuring Jamie and Jax. I have excitedly been waiting for their story since Tee O’Fallon kept teasing us with glimpses in previous stories in this series. I think Tee did a really awesome job closing out the series with Jamie, Jax and Bella.
This is a K9, mafia, forced proximity trope. With this story, Jamie goes undercover as a working with the FBI to take down a mafia family. As with most Italian families, food is an essential element, along with family and love. Not just the romantic love between Jamie and Bella, but the heart warming love for family.
Bella is sweet, endearing and naive. She has worked hard to build her restaurant and unfortunately had let her Aunt Paulo help set her up and now she won’t let her buy her out. Aunt Paulo and her cousin are using the restaurant for illegal purposes and Bella doesn’t know how to get out of the situation without losing all that she built. It’s not just about her, but her friends that came to work for her at the restaurant. And this new guy Jimmy (aka Jamie) that is hanging around is not helping her situation. He seems nice and helpful, but he is part of her cousin’s crew. So he can’t be trusted.
Jamie is a loner, and if not for Jax, wouldn’t be social at all. He exudes guilt and has spent his adult years trying to make-up for his youth, not realizing his family is there for him along with his fellow K9 officer brethren. He’s got a job to do and can’t let someone like Bella get in his way, even if he thinks she innocent. He can’t develop feelings for her and blow his chance to get his father help. He just can’t help but fall in love with her.
I hope you fall in love with Jamie and Bella like I did. Jax and Gnocchi, the dogs, steal the scenes at times. Lastly, Tee gives us one last goodbye to the whole gang. Maybe Tee will let us see more of them again. 😔
Above ‘N’ Beyond is the 7th and final book 😞 in the Federal K9 series featuring Jamie and Jax. I have excitedly been waiting for their story since Tee O’Fallon kept teasing us with glimpses in previous stories in this series. I think Tee did a really awesome job closing out the series with Jamie, Jax and Bella.
This is a K9, mafia, forced proximity trope. With this story, Jamie goes undercover as a working with the FBI to take down a mafia family. As with most Italian families, food is an essential element, along with family and love. Not just the romantic love between Jamie and Bella, but the heart warming love for family.
Bella is sweet, endearing and naive. She has worked hard to build her restaurant and unfortunately had let her Aunt Paulo help set her up and now she won’t let her buy her out. Aunt Paulo and her cousin are using the restaurant for illegal purposes and Bella doesn’t know how to get out of the situation without losing all that she built. It’s not just about her, but her friends that came to work for her at the restaurant. And this new guy Jimmy (aka Jamie) that is hanging around is not helping her situation. He seems nice and helpful, but he is part of her cousin’s crew. So he can’t be trusted.
Jamie is a loner, and if not for Jax, wouldn’t be social at all. He exudes guilt and has spent his adult years trying to make-up for his youth, not realizing his family is there for him along with his fellow K9 officer brethren. He’s got a job to do and can’t let someone like Bella get in his way, even if he thinks she innocent. He can’t develop feelings for her and blow his chance to get his father help. He just can’t help but fall in love with her.
I hope you fall in love with Jamie and Bella like I did. Jax and Gnocchi, the dogs, steal the scenes at times. Lastly, Tee gives us one last goodbye to the whole gang. Maybe Tee will let us see more of them again. 😔
October 9, 2023
This is book seven in The Federal K-9 series and it is Jamie and Bella’s story and it is the final book in this series and definitely a must read. Jamie is a K-9 sergeant and needs to go undercover in a maximum security prison so that he can get in with the Mancusco Crime Family so that he can get the information needed to take them down but six months later and he is out of prison and he had been excepted into the mob but going into the criminal underworld would be a death sentence if he is ever discovered so he needs to be alert and on his toes and keep his whits about him and not get distracted by Bella who he was instantly attracted to. Bella absolutely loved her Bistro but now her family has taken it over and using it as there criminal base and now everything is a nightmare and somehow she needs a way out of the mess that she finds himself in before they take her down with them and then she would lose the life that she wanted and not the life that her family leads because she doesn’t want any part of the criminal activity that her family is in but who can she trust without them betraying her. Jamie and Bella are attracted to each other right from the start and there chemistry is off the charts hot but trust is a big issue and neither know if they can trust each other but will they be able to eventually work together and start to trust each other so that they can bring down her family so that they are both free but they both know that one false move and they would both end up dead. Wow I absolutely love this book with all its twists and turns along the way and it will have you turning the pages while on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next and it was so addictive that I couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series.
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