What do you think?
Rate this book
Adorable Psychos #1
Criminals Need Love Too
You know those love stories that start with adorable meet cutes? Yeah, that didn’t happen here…
Tenley Taylor needed a way out of town that didn’t leave a paper trail. After all, getting caught by the cops with her bag of stolen diamonds would totally suck. Enter Knox Wilder. He was the ideal mark. Fresh-out-of-prison. Easy to manipulate. So, she was fairly surprised when he kidnapped her. Or did she kidnap him? The way it all went down was kinda blurry. Anyhoo, Knox needed a bride to claim his inheritance. And helping him—for a fee—seemed like a great idea. Which is how she ended up in a fake relationship with a grumpy, rudely sexy ex-con who crossed all the boundaries partners in crime should have. Now, everything is messy, because somehow, she managed to break her golden rule. She started to like her mark. Unfortunately, he likes her, too. He says he wants to get to know the real Tenley. But that’d be bad, right? Especially since she’s not even sure she knows who that is anymore…
Criminals Need Love Too is a fun, light, snarky romantic comedy full of witty banter, wacky hijinks, and spicy times.
Trope mapMorally grey heroineEx-con heroGrumpy sunshine romanceOnly one bed Fake relationshipForced proximity
Tenley Taylor needed a way out of town that didn’t leave a paper trail. After all, getting caught by the cops with her bag of stolen diamonds would totally suck. Enter Knox Wilder. He was the ideal mark. Fresh-out-of-prison. Easy to manipulate. So, she was fairly surprised when he kidnapped her. Or did she kidnap him? The way it all went down was kinda blurry. Anyhoo, Knox needed a bride to claim his inheritance. And helping him—for a fee—seemed like a great idea. Which is how she ended up in a fake relationship with a grumpy, rudely sexy ex-con who crossed all the boundaries partners in crime should have. Now, everything is messy, because somehow, she managed to break her golden rule. She started to like her mark. Unfortunately, he likes her, too. He says he wants to get to know the real Tenley. But that’d be bad, right? Especially since she’s not even sure she knows who that is anymore…
Criminals Need Love Too is a fun, light, snarky romantic comedy full of witty banter, wacky hijinks, and spicy times.
Trope mapMorally grey heroineEx-con heroGrumpy sunshine romanceOnly one bed Fake relationshipForced proximity
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2023
About the author
Isabel Jordan
33 books509 followersThe normal:
Isabel Jordan writes because it’s the only profession that allows her to express her natural sarcasm and not be fired. She is a paranormal and contemporary romance author. Isabel lives in the US with her husband, her son son, a neurotic Shepherd mix and a ginormous Great Dane mix named Jerkface. (Don't feel bad for Jerkface. He really is a jerk.)
The weird:
Now that the normal stuff is out of the way, here’s some weird-but-true facts that would never come up in polite conversation. Isabel Jordan:
1. Is terrified of butterflies (don’t judge…it’s a real phobia called lepidopterophobia)
2. Is a lover of all things ironic (hence the butterfly on the first edition cover of Semi-Charmed)
3. Is obsessed with Supernatural, Game of Thrones, and Dog Whisperer.
4. Hates coffee. Drinks a Diet Mountain Dew every morning.
5. Will argue to the death that Pretty in Pink ended all wrong. (Seriously, she ends up with the guy who was embarrassed to be seen with her and not the nice guy who loved her all along? That would never fly in the world of romance novels.)
6. Would eat Mexican food every day, if given the choice.
7. Reads two books a week in varied genres.
8. Refers to her Kindle as “the precious”.
9. Thinks puppy breath is one of the best smells in the world.
10. Is a social media idgit. (Her husband had to explain to her last week what the point of Twitter was. She’s still a little fuzzy on what Instagram and Pinterest do.)
11. Kicks ass at Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.
12. Stole her tagline idea from her son. Her tagline idea was, “Never wrong, not quite right.” She liked her son’s idea better.
13. Breaks one vacuum cleaner a year because she ignores standard maintenance procedures (Really, you’re supposed to empty the canister every time you vacuum? Does that seem excessive to anyone else?)
14. Is still mad at the WB network for cancelling Angel in 2004.
15. Can’t find her way from her bed to her bathroom without her glasses, but refused eye surgery, even when someone else offered to pay. (They lost her at “eye flap”. Seriously, look it up. Scary stuff.)
Isabel Jordan writes because it’s the only profession that allows her to express her natural sarcasm and not be fired. She is a paranormal and contemporary romance author. Isabel lives in the US with her husband, her son son, a neurotic Shepherd mix and a ginormous Great Dane mix named Jerkface. (Don't feel bad for Jerkface. He really is a jerk.)
The weird:
Now that the normal stuff is out of the way, here’s some weird-but-true facts that would never come up in polite conversation. Isabel Jordan:
1. Is terrified of butterflies (don’t judge…it’s a real phobia called lepidopterophobia)
2. Is a lover of all things ironic (hence the butterfly on the first edition cover of Semi-Charmed)
3. Is obsessed with Supernatural, Game of Thrones, and Dog Whisperer.
4. Hates coffee. Drinks a Diet Mountain Dew every morning.
5. Will argue to the death that Pretty in Pink ended all wrong. (Seriously, she ends up with the guy who was embarrassed to be seen with her and not the nice guy who loved her all along? That would never fly in the world of romance novels.)
6. Would eat Mexican food every day, if given the choice.
7. Reads two books a week in varied genres.
8. Refers to her Kindle as “the precious”.
9. Thinks puppy breath is one of the best smells in the world.
10. Is a social media idgit. (Her husband had to explain to her last week what the point of Twitter was. She’s still a little fuzzy on what Instagram and Pinterest do.)
11. Kicks ass at Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.
12. Stole her tagline idea from her son. Her tagline idea was, “Never wrong, not quite right.” She liked her son’s idea better.
13. Breaks one vacuum cleaner a year because she ignores standard maintenance procedures (Really, you’re supposed to empty the canister every time you vacuum? Does that seem excessive to anyone else?)
14. Is still mad at the WB network for cancelling Angel in 2004.
15. Can’t find her way from her bed to her bathroom without her glasses, but refused eye surgery, even when someone else offered to pay. (They lost her at “eye flap”. Seriously, look it up. Scary stuff.)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
August 20, 2024
This may be a shorter review. We're in "it's almost back to school" craziness mode in my house along with getting hit with a bug so my brain is mush lol. As I was finally doing a long catchup on here though, I saw the lovely Christina say this about a recent read of a totally different book, "able to take its outlandish/OTT character actions and make them endearing", and immediately went "YES, that's what happened in this book!" So Criminals Need Love Too is often OTT and madcap feeling with a fast pace and some disbelief suspension required, but the h and H are endearingly entertaining. It does feel surface-level though, even when touching on harder topics (like the H's time in prison or the h's difficult start in life). I liked it and laughed a lot, but found myself not able to sink deeply into it because of the set-up.
Written in third person, dual POV. Not really ow or om drama, but both H and h have someone pop up from the past that try to cause drama (and don't). Both are experienced and both have been celibate for years (the H because jail and the h out of choice).
The h and H have a meet cute where each has essentially kidnapped the other and then proceed to join forces to claim the H's inheritance, soundly apply comeuppance to the bad guys, and against the odds of the h's typically high walls and attitude, fall in love. They do have allies, including the h's hacker best friend who stalks those he cares about out of love, a sweet dog, and some others who support them. Most of the page time are the H and h and then the bad folk they're butting up against. The fact that the h is a con artist, who continues to con y'all, and the H was framed for the crime that landed him in jail was interesting. He made many mistakes when he was younger and I was sad for him, but liked how one character put perspective out there for him on how others felt that he could change himself around. I do wish we'd gotten to see him actually work with wood (not a euphemism) on page. The intense looks, building tension, and finally steam were all good as well.
The ending is a bit bonkers, even for something I already described as feeling somewhat madcap. A lot was happening and multiple threats being thrown around. The H and h are in love though and prevail over the baddies. The ending is HFN with an epilogue from the next book's H's POV and it's sweet what the h has accomplished, as well as providing a lil peek into the intricacies of what the hacker friend is going to deal with. I don't know if I'd recommend this per se, but I don't not recommend it if you're looking for a quick read that's got a solid sense of humor and fun with an easy flow that also isn't going to change your life.
Written in third person, dual POV. Not really ow or om drama, but both H and h have someone pop up from the past that try to cause drama (and don't). Both are experienced and both have been celibate for years (the H because jail and the h out of choice).
The h and H have a meet cute where each has essentially kidnapped the other and then proceed to join forces to claim the H's inheritance, soundly apply comeuppance to the bad guys, and against the odds of the h's typically high walls and attitude, fall in love. They do have allies, including the h's hacker best friend who stalks those he cares about out of love, a sweet dog, and some others who support them. Most of the page time are the H and h and then the bad folk they're butting up against. The fact that the h is a con artist, who continues to con y'all, and the H was framed for the crime that landed him in jail was interesting. He made many mistakes when he was younger and I was sad for him, but liked how one character put perspective out there for him on how others felt that he could change himself around. I do wish we'd gotten to see him actually work with wood (not a euphemism) on page. The intense looks, building tension, and finally steam were all good as well.
The ending is a bit bonkers, even for something I already described as feeling somewhat madcap. A lot was happening and multiple threats being thrown around. The H and h are in love though and prevail over the baddies. The ending is HFN with an epilogue from the next book's H's POV and it's sweet what the h has accomplished, as well as providing a lil peek into the intricacies of what the hacker friend is going to deal with. I don't know if I'd recommend this per se, but I don't not recommend it if you're looking for a quick read that's got a solid sense of humor and fun with an easy flow that also isn't going to change your life.
February 8, 2026
A laugh-out-loud, sarcastic romcom.
Funny, hilarious banter between Tenley and Knox, and with all the other characters really.
Relatable characters.
Spicy but not over doing it.
Tenley Taylor is a con artist and a thief, and just stole a bag of diamonds from a jewellery store.
She needs to get out of town fast.
She looks around and finds her mark.
A hot muscle-y, pretty faced man, who looks like he has recently got out of prison.
Knox Wilder has spent 5 years in prison for embezzlement, something he was framed for.
The car belongs to his lawyer, who told him the best way to show he's settled down and have his inheritance is to get married.
So he kidnapps Tenley.
Or was it the other way around?
She's full of resources and when there's a police blockage ahead she's the one who gets them through, and doesn't feel afraid of him at all.
He thinks she's beautiful but crazy, and doesn't know why she hadn't left him yet.
They need a place to rest and she chooses the Windsor Luxury Hotel and he watches as she tricked another mark at the bar into giving her all his money, his opulent suite with all his stuff, and even threatening him with repercussions if he doesn't do what she asks!
She's scary!
She's amazing!
But there"s only one bed, big enough for 20, but nevertheless just one, and they are both shockingly hot.
So she decides to "go with the flow and play whatever cards she's handed."
But then Knox hancuffed one of her hands to the headboard of the bed because he still doesn't trust her and he wants to sleep in peace and safe.
He falls asleep and she picks the lock in 5 minutes.
She needs to call Ren at the same time each night to confirm she's ok, or he'll come looking for her.
They were skinny, hungry trailer park foster kids once, and she beated some kids that were bullying him.
Now he's a beast of a man, the closest thing to a friend she'd ever had.
She can call on him for anything she needs.
Documents, false identities, erase security footage, informations, whatever.
The next day when Knox awakes after sleeping 12 hours, she's there with a cup of coffee just the way he likes it, and asks where they're going.
He tells her about his father inheritance, the trust fund and being 35 years-old, and settled down, or everything goes to his stepbrother Thadeus!
She agrees to fake dating him, for a price of course, and after seeing him with Nat who raised him after her mother died when we was 10 years-old, and the dog he had before he went to prison, he's no more the ex con but a real man she actually cares about.
She needs to get away fast because she is falling for a mark, a rule she never breaks!
And Knox wants hisTenley all day and all night.
She's beautiful, smart, funny, has a good heart, and is a dog lover too.
She makes everything easy!
And he wants to do what he loves: beautiful furniture like his mother!
But his septbrother wants the 20 million in trust, and he will not let go of the business he thinks he's entitled to, and will use every means available to prevent it.
Will Tenley and Knox succeed?
Will they be able to make all of those who wronged Knox to pay for what they did?
And will these two people who are so right for each other, so in love, so supportive, find happiness and their own HEA?
Together and with Ren's help they are an unstoppable force!
I was forgetting the epilogue.
Will Tenley put an end to her criminal career?
Funny, hilarious banter between Tenley and Knox, and with all the other characters really.
Relatable characters.
Spicy but not over doing it.
Tenley Taylor is a con artist and a thief, and just stole a bag of diamonds from a jewellery store.
She needs to get out of town fast.
She looks around and finds her mark.
A hot muscle-y, pretty faced man, who looks like he has recently got out of prison.
Knox Wilder has spent 5 years in prison for embezzlement, something he was framed for.
The car belongs to his lawyer, who told him the best way to show he's settled down and have his inheritance is to get married.
So he kidnapps Tenley.
Or was it the other way around?
She's full of resources and when there's a police blockage ahead she's the one who gets them through, and doesn't feel afraid of him at all.
He thinks she's beautiful but crazy, and doesn't know why she hadn't left him yet.
They need a place to rest and she chooses the Windsor Luxury Hotel and he watches as she tricked another mark at the bar into giving her all his money, his opulent suite with all his stuff, and even threatening him with repercussions if he doesn't do what she asks!
She's scary!
She's amazing!
But there"s only one bed, big enough for 20, but nevertheless just one, and they are both shockingly hot.
So she decides to "go with the flow and play whatever cards she's handed."
But then Knox hancuffed one of her hands to the headboard of the bed because he still doesn't trust her and he wants to sleep in peace and safe.
He falls asleep and she picks the lock in 5 minutes.
She needs to call Ren at the same time each night to confirm she's ok, or he'll come looking for her.
They were skinny, hungry trailer park foster kids once, and she beated some kids that were bullying him.
Now he's a beast of a man, the closest thing to a friend she'd ever had.
She can call on him for anything she needs.
Documents, false identities, erase security footage, informations, whatever.
The next day when Knox awakes after sleeping 12 hours, she's there with a cup of coffee just the way he likes it, and asks where they're going.
He tells her about his father inheritance, the trust fund and being 35 years-old, and settled down, or everything goes to his stepbrother Thadeus!
She agrees to fake dating him, for a price of course, and after seeing him with Nat who raised him after her mother died when we was 10 years-old, and the dog he had before he went to prison, he's no more the ex con but a real man she actually cares about.
She needs to get away fast because she is falling for a mark, a rule she never breaks!
And Knox wants hisTenley all day and all night.
She's beautiful, smart, funny, has a good heart, and is a dog lover too.
She makes everything easy!
And he wants to do what he loves: beautiful furniture like his mother!
But his septbrother wants the 20 million in trust, and he will not let go of the business he thinks he's entitled to, and will use every means available to prevent it.
Will Tenley and Knox succeed?
Will they be able to make all of those who wronged Knox to pay for what they did?
And will these two people who are so right for each other, so in love, so supportive, find happiness and their own HEA?
Together and with Ren's help they are an unstoppable force!
I was forgetting the epilogue.
Will Tenley put an end to her criminal career?
December 20, 2023
If you think I read this because of the title I’m sorry to say you are absolutely right 🤪 and I loved it.
Criminals Need Love Too is a romcom that does not take itself seriously…exactly! And I had the best time reading it. The characters were amazing, the chemistry sizzling and the humor and banter were top notches.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Criminals Need Love Too is a romcom that does not take itself seriously…exactly! And I had the best time reading it. The characters were amazing, the chemistry sizzling and the humor and banter were top notches.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 24, 2025
this was the most fun i had in a while reading a book!! totally outlandish and very unique yet so sweet!!😌
August 22, 2025
This was a light, funny, cute read! If you wanted to you could find holes in this story and pick it apart. But if you are looking for a quick clear the air kinda book look no further.
December 13, 2023
stars: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ . 5
spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
bi panic.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
bi panic.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2025
This book came up in my Bookbub email this morning. The blurb sounded interesting so I looked it up and borrowed it on Kobo+. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it! Some parts were a little far fetched, but it was fun and had a lot of laughs. Tenley and Knox had some great banter.
My only issues were that it ended at 86% because it had “samples” of some of the author’s other books af the end. I’m not a fan of that. I also didn’t like that the epilogue was from Tenley’s friend Ren’s POV. It was a total set up for the next book in the series. Epilogues should be about the main characters.
*contains porny sex scenes. I’m sure plenty of people like them, but they’re not my thing. I skimmed those, but one of them lasted 2 chapters. 🙄
My only issues were that it ended at 86% because it had “samples” of some of the author’s other books af the end. I’m not a fan of that. I also didn’t like that the epilogue was from Tenley’s friend Ren’s POV. It was a total set up for the next book in the series. Epilogues should be about the main characters.
*contains porny sex scenes. I’m sure plenty of people like them, but they’re not my thing. I skimmed those, but one of them lasted 2 chapters. 🙄
December 1, 2023
I didn’t feel the chemistry between the characters or really care about what was gonna happen at the end just cause it was silly and predictable
November 28, 2023
2,5/3⭐️
First of all, thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
'Criminals need love too' is a quick romance book and the first one in the new series 'Adorable Psychos'.
It's the first book that I have read by this author, and I have to say that I have conflicting thoughts about it.
I loved Tenley and her relation with Ren, even though I would’ve liked to know more about them and their past, and overall it was a fun and fast-placed book with an interesting concept.
At the same time though I didn’t feel a particular connection or interest in the story between Tenley and Knox, and I think that it’s probably due to the length of the book.
However, it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
First of all, thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
'Criminals need love too' is a quick romance book and the first one in the new series 'Adorable Psychos'.
It's the first book that I have read by this author, and I have to say that I have conflicting thoughts about it.
I loved Tenley and her relation with Ren, even though I would’ve liked to know more about them and their past, and overall it was a fun and fast-placed book with an interesting concept.
At the same time though I didn’t feel a particular connection or interest in the story between Tenley and Knox, and I think that it’s probably due to the length of the book.
However, it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
November 27, 2023
Phenomenal. 4.5 stars. I absolutely loved it. It was fun, fast paced and had the most satisfying ending. Tenley, despite having a really weird name, is a great character. She is really clever, insanely protective and entertaining. I love Knox too but I will be honest he is underwhelming compared to her, still great though. The smut is great, I want that.
July 23, 2024
DNF at 57%
I tried, I really did, but just couldn't finish.
The writing was not it, the story also wasn't it. They had no chemistry, I didn't care for the plot and their feelings felt fake.
I tried, I really did, but just couldn't finish.
The writing was not it, the story also wasn't it. They had no chemistry, I didn't care for the plot and their feelings felt fake.
November 28, 2023
I wanna thank netgalley for this ARC in exhange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
I loved this book. It was so good. The humor of it was awesome, I laughed so many times, the characters and the scenes were genuinely funny. I loved Tenley, just being herself, not changing for anyone, she was so bad*ss. She knew who she was and she didn't let anyone make her feel less, she was confident and I loved that. Knox seemed all gruffy but was a teddy bear at heart, especially with Tenley. He wanted things to be right and justice to prevail, he didn't about revenge, he just wanted things to be fair which is totally reasonable. He was the sweetest and he surpported Tenley fully, didn't matter what she did ot say, he was there for her and that's how it should be. That man was head over heels for her and she wasn't far behind. They fit so perfectly together, I loved them for each other.
I loved this book. It was so good. The humor of it was awesome, I laughed so many times, the characters and the scenes were genuinely funny. I loved Tenley, just being herself, not changing for anyone, she was so bad*ss. She knew who she was and she didn't let anyone make her feel less, she was confident and I loved that. Knox seemed all gruffy but was a teddy bear at heart, especially with Tenley. He wanted things to be right and justice to prevail, he didn't about revenge, he just wanted things to be fair which is totally reasonable. He was the sweetest and he surpported Tenley fully, didn't matter what she did ot say, he was there for her and that's how it should be. That man was head over heels for her and she wasn't far behind. They fit so perfectly together, I loved them for each other.
December 1, 2023
I was having the crappiest day ever, and I opened this book and halfway through page one I immediately started to feel lighter and was smiling. Isabel Jordan is a witch that manages to weave humor, wit, originality, and pure entertainment into every book she writes. This is an absolute gem of a book that will have you smiling and laughing and rooting for the cutest freaking couple ever. Tenley and Knox have definitely become one of my favorite couples and I am salivating to read Ren’s book. This will definitely be a book I reread more than once!
January 17, 2025
" The thing no one ever tells you about rock bottom? There's a basement"
It was short, it was fun, it was cute and it was hot. Exactly the reading time I needed
Tropes
💎 Ex convicted MMC × Con artist MMF
💎 Fake relationship
💎 There is only one bed
💎 No 3rd act breakup
💎 She's the Feral one
It was short, it was fun, it was cute and it was hot. Exactly the reading time I needed
Tropes
💎 Ex convicted MMC × Con artist MMF
💎 Fake relationship
💎 There is only one bed
💎 No 3rd act breakup
💎 She's the Feral one
December 1, 2023
I think I've made it clear that I'll read whatever Isabel Jordan writes. Paranormal? Great. Monsters? Sure. Superheroes? Bring em' on. Rock stars? Not usually my thing, but f-yeah, I'll give it a go. So, why was I surprised when I read about two criminals and STILL fell totally in love with them?
Plot overview: Tenley is a super smart grifter. Knox is a desperate ex con trying to get his hands on his inheritance after getting released from prison. They work together after the most non-conventional meet cute I've ever read to get Knox's life back on track. Hijinks and spicy times ensue, as well as a surprising number of warm, emotional moments.
Trope bingo: Morally grey heroine, ex-con hero, fake dating, forced proximity, heist romance, grumpy sunshine, only one bed
There was SO much to love in this book, y'all. It's a hilarious (some of the witty banter between Knox and Tenley made me snort-laugh) heist romance that kind of reminds me of the truly fabulous show White Collar (not in plot, but in vibes). You don't see too many morally grey heroines in Romancelandia, but Tenley as a character makes me wonder why the hell not. This was, honestly, a trope I didn't even know I needed until I read this book. And Knox is my favorite kind of romance hero--hot, grumpy, and ALL about the heroine. This guy would give Tenley a kidney if she needed one and wouldn't think twice about it. Although, who are we kidding? If Tenley needed a kidney, she'd steal one and save herself. But that's not the point. The point is, I loved these characters. They might even be my favorite Isabel Jordan characters of all time. (Which is saying A LOT if you've read any of my other reviews.)
And for those of you who need to know...yes, there are some amazing spicy times. It's not a 5-star spice level, but a SOLID 3.5, which is plenty (in my opinion).
Plus, there's a scene where Knox is reunited with his dog and it legit brought tears to my eyes. It was a surprisingly heartwarming scene for a rom com.
So, long-story-short, if you're looking for a witty, spicy, snarky rom com with a unique plot, a non-conventional heroine, a few emotional moments, and a grumpy hero who hits ALL the right notes, this is your next read.
Plot overview: Tenley is a super smart grifter. Knox is a desperate ex con trying to get his hands on his inheritance after getting released from prison. They work together after the most non-conventional meet cute I've ever read to get Knox's life back on track. Hijinks and spicy times ensue, as well as a surprising number of warm, emotional moments.
Trope bingo: Morally grey heroine, ex-con hero, fake dating, forced proximity, heist romance, grumpy sunshine, only one bed
There was SO much to love in this book, y'all. It's a hilarious (some of the witty banter between Knox and Tenley made me snort-laugh) heist romance that kind of reminds me of the truly fabulous show White Collar (not in plot, but in vibes). You don't see too many morally grey heroines in Romancelandia, but Tenley as a character makes me wonder why the hell not. This was, honestly, a trope I didn't even know I needed until I read this book. And Knox is my favorite kind of romance hero--hot, grumpy, and ALL about the heroine. This guy would give Tenley a kidney if she needed one and wouldn't think twice about it. Although, who are we kidding? If Tenley needed a kidney, she'd steal one and save herself. But that's not the point. The point is, I loved these characters. They might even be my favorite Isabel Jordan characters of all time. (Which is saying A LOT if you've read any of my other reviews.)
And for those of you who need to know...yes, there are some amazing spicy times. It's not a 5-star spice level, but a SOLID 3.5, which is plenty (in my opinion).
Plus, there's a scene where Knox is reunited with his dog and it legit brought tears to my eyes. It was a surprisingly heartwarming scene for a rom com.
So, long-story-short, if you're looking for a witty, spicy, snarky rom com with a unique plot, a non-conventional heroine, a few emotional moments, and a grumpy hero who hits ALL the right notes, this is your next read.
December 7, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, Xpresso Book, and the author for an e-copy of this book in exchange for a honest review!
I am going to be honest that when I saw this on Netgalley, I knew it was going to be different from my usual romances, but the title and description intrigued me. This book did not disappoint AT ALL!
While on the short side, this book had just enough of a plot, character development, and spice to keep it interesting but being the perfect length for what it was.
Now you’re probably wondering… why would you want to read a book about criminals falling in love? Well, this book is more than that. In fact, while Knox and Tenley (mostly Tenley) do some questionable things, those things are just a means to survive. Tenley didn’t grow up under the best circumstances and doing what she does was her way to get out and make something for herself against all odds. And technically.. Knox didn’t do anything wrong to land him in his predicament. And these two together? Absolutely amazing.
From the first chapter, I absolutely loved Tenley and could not wait to see which direction this plot would go. Then when her and Knox met, the two of them had such funny banter, I was kicking my feet and giggling. It was no surprise that these two flowed so well together. I’m glad that even though the book was short, we got to learn about both of their pasts and why they are the way they are today.
Side note: The epilogue in Ren’s point-of-view was a GREAT addition! I’m really hoping there’s a sequel with him as the main character… Something about him really intrigues me!!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who wants a quick read, with some spice, and funny moments!
Tropes:
-Morally grey heroine
-Ex-con hero
-Grumpy sunshine romance
-Only one bed
-Fake relationship
-Forced proximity
I am going to be honest that when I saw this on Netgalley, I knew it was going to be different from my usual romances, but the title and description intrigued me. This book did not disappoint AT ALL!
While on the short side, this book had just enough of a plot, character development, and spice to keep it interesting but being the perfect length for what it was.
Now you’re probably wondering… why would you want to read a book about criminals falling in love? Well, this book is more than that. In fact, while Knox and Tenley (mostly Tenley) do some questionable things, those things are just a means to survive. Tenley didn’t grow up under the best circumstances and doing what she does was her way to get out and make something for herself against all odds. And technically.. Knox didn’t do anything wrong to land him in his predicament. And these two together? Absolutely amazing.
From the first chapter, I absolutely loved Tenley and could not wait to see which direction this plot would go. Then when her and Knox met, the two of them had such funny banter, I was kicking my feet and giggling. It was no surprise that these two flowed so well together. I’m glad that even though the book was short, we got to learn about both of their pasts and why they are the way they are today.
Side note: The epilogue in Ren’s point-of-view was a GREAT addition! I’m really hoping there’s a sequel with him as the main character… Something about him really intrigues me!!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who wants a quick read, with some spice, and funny moments!
Tropes:
-Morally grey heroine
-Ex-con hero
-Grumpy sunshine romance
-Only one bed
-Fake relationship
-Forced proximity
December 9, 2023
Criminals Need Love to by Isabel Jordan is a cute but different type of rom com. I didn't know what to expect from this book but was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it. In this book, we meet Tenley and Knox. Tenley is a con artist who we meet right after she stole some jewels and is trying to get out of town. She sees Knox who was recently released from prison. Tenley eyes him as the perfect target to help her get out of town, but as she is going to con him, he tells her to get into the car. Was she really just kidnapped by her next target? Read to find out.
I liked the character development of Tenley throughout the book., As you learn about her childhood you understand why she is the way she is. At first, I thought she was superficial and lacked depth, but the author gives you glimpses of a different character underneath. As the book continues her true character starts to shine through although she still has some morally gray aspects to her. Tenley is a strong and confident female main character and compliments Knox perfectly. Knox loved Tenley for who she was and he was not interested in trying to change her. He was a teddy bear who only had eyes for her and only wanted to be with her. There was chemistry and just the right amount of spice between these two.
I loved that I was rooting for and wanting the best for these two characters with a checkered past and some morally gray moments (especially where Tenley is concerned). This was my first book by Isabel Jordan and I recommend reading her newly release book (released on December 1, 2023).
Read this book if you like:
* fake dating/marriage
* revenge vibe
* he falls first
* morally grey FMC
* forced proximity
* one bed
Thank you to Netgalley , Isabel Jordan, and Xpresso Book Tours for allowing me to read this ebook. I voluntarily read it and gave an honest review.
I liked the character development of Tenley throughout the book., As you learn about her childhood you understand why she is the way she is. At first, I thought she was superficial and lacked depth, but the author gives you glimpses of a different character underneath. As the book continues her true character starts to shine through although she still has some morally gray aspects to her. Tenley is a strong and confident female main character and compliments Knox perfectly. Knox loved Tenley for who she was and he was not interested in trying to change her. He was a teddy bear who only had eyes for her and only wanted to be with her. There was chemistry and just the right amount of spice between these two.
I loved that I was rooting for and wanting the best for these two characters with a checkered past and some morally gray moments (especially where Tenley is concerned). This was my first book by Isabel Jordan and I recommend reading her newly release book (released on December 1, 2023).
Read this book if you like:
* fake dating/marriage
* revenge vibe
* he falls first
* morally grey FMC
* forced proximity
* one bed
Thank you to Netgalley , Isabel Jordan, and Xpresso Book Tours for allowing me to read this ebook. I voluntarily read it and gave an honest review.
Read
February 23, 2024Read our full review at The Smut Report
Heat Factor: There are some very explicit pants feels…and physical feels…in this book.
Character Chemistry: So good right away. The way they interact is phenomenal.
Plot: Tenley needs a getaway mark after stealing a bunch of diamonds. Knox needs a wife to get his inheritance after being in prison for five years. Together, they wreak havoc.
Overall: This book is ridiculous and really fun.
The best thing about this book is Tenley. You see, Tenley is extremely confident. She has been a con artist since she was a child so she could survive, and because she was so good at it, she more than survived. She’s got a cool million in offshore accounts. She knows exactly what she can do and what she’s worth. You know all those Romance Relationship Problems that always make the FMC shrink and/or run away? They don’t mess with Tenley. Tenley is the character who looks down her nose at the encroaching hanger-on trying to mess with the MMC and tells her to try harder.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Heat Factor: There are some very explicit pants feels…and physical feels…in this book.
Character Chemistry: So good right away. The way they interact is phenomenal.
Plot: Tenley needs a getaway mark after stealing a bunch of diamonds. Knox needs a wife to get his inheritance after being in prison for five years. Together, they wreak havoc.
Overall: This book is ridiculous and really fun.
The best thing about this book is Tenley. You see, Tenley is extremely confident. She has been a con artist since she was a child so she could survive, and because she was so good at it, she more than survived. She’s got a cool million in offshore accounts. She knows exactly what she can do and what she’s worth. You know all those Romance Relationship Problems that always make the FMC shrink and/or run away? They don’t mess with Tenley. Tenley is the character who looks down her nose at the encroaching hanger-on trying to mess with the MMC and tells her to try harder.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
January 31, 2024
This was a first time read for me by this author, and it definitely won't be my last. I have to confess, the unique title is what first caught my attention. I had a feeling it would be fun, sassy, different type of rom com that would keep me laughing and smiling, and I wasn't wrong. Tenley and Knox are an unconventional couple, but they work so well together. Though both are labeled as criminals, they only do those questionable things to survive. Tenley is a con artist and meets Knox right after she steals some jewels and is trying to get out of town. Knox has recently been released from prison, and Tenley sees him as the perfect means for a clean getaway. But the tables are turned and he ends up kidnapping her. Knox is trying to get possession of his inheritance and he needs a wife to do that. Tenley is the perfect candidate to help him out. The two end up working together to help Knox get his life back on track. And somewhere along the way, real feelings begin to develop between them. Can a real relationship between them actually work?
The humor and witty banter was absolutely on mark and I couldn't keep the smile off my face. A completely unconventional and unique love story that will absolutely melt your heart! The characters were well-crafted and believable and the chemistry between them was undeniable. This is the first book of the series, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The humor and witty banter was absolutely on mark and I couldn't keep the smile off my face. A completely unconventional and unique love story that will absolutely melt your heart! The characters were well-crafted and believable and the chemistry between them was undeniable. This is the first book of the series, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
July 8, 2024
Criminals need to love too by Isabel Jordan was a carry out from May (yes I know, but I have a terrible reading month on June). And it’s a book that has been highly entertaining but it is not the best book I’ve ever read, it just falls in the middle.
We follow Teneley and Knox, she is a con woman and he is an excon, that might have been wrongfully convicted. They met as she needs an escape route and he might accidentally kidnaped her. And from then they forge and unexpected alliance to get Knox´s trust found.
The story is not particularly brilliant but it has some funny moments. The characters are quite plain, but they were entertaining. This book is quite short and that contributes a lot to the instaromance, which if you know me a little is something that bothers me a bit.
Plot wise it could have been better to be honest. I don’t think that the full potential of the con abilities of Tenely are use to their full potential and I would have enjoy it better if it was something more similar to Oceans Eleven and the stakes were a bit higher.
This book is part of a series called Adorable Psychos, which so far only has this book published. And honestly I am not sure if I’ll continue with the series when the next one comes out, because I feel it’s going to follow a character that we have already met but that I did not like that much.
So to sump up, this was just a mean reading, but it is entertaining enough for a summer read.
We follow Teneley and Knox, she is a con woman and he is an excon, that might have been wrongfully convicted. They met as she needs an escape route and he might accidentally kidnaped her. And from then they forge and unexpected alliance to get Knox´s trust found.
The story is not particularly brilliant but it has some funny moments. The characters are quite plain, but they were entertaining. This book is quite short and that contributes a lot to the instaromance, which if you know me a little is something that bothers me a bit.
Plot wise it could have been better to be honest. I don’t think that the full potential of the con abilities of Tenely are use to their full potential and I would have enjoy it better if it was something more similar to Oceans Eleven and the stakes were a bit higher.
This book is part of a series called Adorable Psychos, which so far only has this book published. And honestly I am not sure if I’ll continue with the series when the next one comes out, because I feel it’s going to follow a character that we have already met but that I did not like that much.
So to sump up, this was just a mean reading, but it is entertaining enough for a summer read.
December 9, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
📖: Criminals Need Love Too
🖋️: Isabel Jordan
⭐️: 4 of 5
💬: “You ready to be bad with me, good girl?
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Fake dating/marriage
✨One Bed
✨Ex-con
✨Hilarious banter
✨Grumpy/ sunshine
Tenley Taylor is searching for a mark after she finished a new con job at her temporary employment.
With her plans to get out of town fast, she finds her mark which ends up being an ex-con.
Knox has just been released after serving five years for a crime he did not commit. After his layer suggests that he should get married to receive her inheritance. He ends up taking a woman he accidentally bumps into him.
“So, where are we headed, Cheekbones?”
While these two find themselves together in the weirdest way. They help each other out. From attraction and hilarious banter. I truly loved these characters!
The writing style was a little different from what I normally read but I truly enjoyed it. A quick, fun read that will keep you laughing, and you will easily fall in love with Knox.
“We’ve got lives to ruin. This is going to be fun.”
Tenley helps Knox figure out his worth while Knox slowly changes Tenley and gives her a different outlook on how her life can be and change.
Thank you, Isabel Jordan, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
📖: Criminals Need Love Too
🖋️: Isabel Jordan
⭐️: 4 of 5
💬: “You ready to be bad with me, good girl?
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Fake dating/marriage
✨One Bed
✨Ex-con
✨Hilarious banter
✨Grumpy/ sunshine
Tenley Taylor is searching for a mark after she finished a new con job at her temporary employment.
With her plans to get out of town fast, she finds her mark which ends up being an ex-con.
Knox has just been released after serving five years for a crime he did not commit. After his layer suggests that he should get married to receive her inheritance. He ends up taking a woman he accidentally bumps into him.
“So, where are we headed, Cheekbones?”
While these two find themselves together in the weirdest way. They help each other out. From attraction and hilarious banter. I truly loved these characters!
The writing style was a little different from what I normally read but I truly enjoyed it. A quick, fun read that will keep you laughing, and you will easily fall in love with Knox.
“We’ve got lives to ruin. This is going to be fun.”
Tenley helps Knox figure out his worth while Knox slowly changes Tenley and gives her a different outlook on how her life can be and change.
Thank you, Isabel Jordan, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
May 5, 2026
It was short, thankfully
This was a pretty fast read and I'm grateful for that. If this had dragged on any longer, I would have dnf'd.
Now, because it's a shorter read, it's fairly fast paced.
My issues were the writing style and the insta-infatuation.
Firstly, the writing style is extremely juvenile and annoyly tries to be "hip" by using slang that really just doesn't work. If you had told me Tenley was a 16 year old, I'd have believed you. No way this woman is smart enough to repeatedly con people and not get caught.
Knox was just a "pretty" face, as we're repeatedly told. Pretty sure he had little to no actual thoughts and he really didn't move the plot along (except in the romance aspect, obviously).
The smex scenes were boring.
And the insta-infatuation. Don't get me started. They see each other and both of them become brainless idiots. They don't really try to fight it (Tenley tries but not really) which is fine, but it was especially disappointing because this girl literally lost IQ points just looking at him. No.
The only thing that saved this from not being a 1⭐ rating is that there was no other woman drama and no surprise pregnancy.
Will not be reading the others.
This was a pretty fast read and I'm grateful for that. If this had dragged on any longer, I would have dnf'd.
Now, because it's a shorter read, it's fairly fast paced.
My issues were the writing style and the insta-infatuation.
Firstly, the writing style is extremely juvenile and annoyly tries to be "hip" by using slang that really just doesn't work. If you had told me Tenley was a 16 year old, I'd have believed you. No way this woman is smart enough to repeatedly con people and not get caught.
Knox was just a "pretty" face, as we're repeatedly told. Pretty sure he had little to no actual thoughts and he really didn't move the plot along (except in the romance aspect, obviously).
The smex scenes were boring.
And the insta-infatuation. Don't get me started. They see each other and both of them become brainless idiots. They don't really try to fight it (Tenley tries but not really) which is fine, but it was especially disappointing because this girl literally lost IQ points just looking at him. No.
The only thing that saved this from not being a 1⭐ rating is that there was no other woman drama and no surprise pregnancy.
Will not be reading the others.
December 3, 2023
Often the summary of a book sounds so good, to me, that I just have to try a new author. I am SO glad I requested this book; two wounded souls doing the best they can to survive and finding the perfect half to their whole! Tenley Taylor is a con artist, an excellent one, but now she needs a quick ride out of town. Knox Wilder has been released from prison and needs a wife to claim his inheritance. Before she can ask him for a ride, he tells her to get in the car. She wasn’t planning on the whole kidnapping thing, but it suits her purpose…so she gets in the car. There are so many things about Tenley that will puzzle him, almost terrify him, but Knox has no plans to let her go. As they work together to ensure his inheritance along with the success of his mother’s company, Tenley is in her element, conning the cons! To say that the dialog is witty is to understate how hilarious, sarcastic and entertaining it is as it kept me turning the pages to see what was next. Absolutely loved it and this is one book that I will definitely read again. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
November 29, 2023
I received this ARC for review. I absolutely loved this book and ate it up. I asked for this one because the description just sounded too good, however, I was nervous because the cover just made me think it would be one that I would cringe while reading, not really get into, etc. OH HOW WAS I WRONG!!! The writing was beautiful, the book is a quick read, and I loved the average length chapters. I loved the rom-com feel of this book and the underlying "criminal" setting of this book. There was banter and Tenley was absolutely hilarious! I loved how strong and independent she is, but not letting that keep her from opening her heart.
My only negative (which may not be a negative, lol) is that the destroying of lives of the board members was SO fast and I would have loved to see that be a little more drawn out and exciting. Though I loved listening to Tenley just rip each one of them apart. I laughed out loud a lot during this book and it was just so fun! I would love to see a series about these two just because their life would be fun to follow. :)
My only negative (which may not be a negative, lol) is that the destroying of lives of the board members was SO fast and I would have loved to see that be a little more drawn out and exciting. Though I loved listening to Tenley just rip each one of them apart. I laughed out loud a lot during this book and it was just so fun! I would love to see a series about these two just because their life would be fun to follow. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2023
This book has a plot I hadn’t read before, which was what was drawing me in in the first place. I really liked the premis of a strong and criminal couple. I liked the spunk of our fmc but found our mc a bit dull in the first half of the book, but that might be because I struggled to get through the first 50% of the book in general. I felt like it was rushed and although the meet cute was great, the rest of the relationship was going so fast that it was throwing me off a bit. However, halfway through, it (and our mc) started to get better and I really enjoyed it from there on. The smut and banter was great.
I liked the writing style of the author but am not a fan of 3rd person POV, although that might be a personal preference.
Tropes:
- fake dating
- forced proximity
- grumpy x sunshine
- morally grey dmc
I was given this book for an honest review by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I liked the writing style of the author but am not a fan of 3rd person POV, although that might be a personal preference.
Tropes:
- fake dating
- forced proximity
- grumpy x sunshine
- morally grey dmc
I was given this book for an honest review by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
December 7, 2023
This was such a cute read. It starts off right away with Tenley stealing jewels (well we get the aftermath of her walking away from the store) and her spotting the perfect target to take her out of town. Enter Knox. And boooyyy was she taken aback by how hot he was.
Knox, meanwhile, was on the phone with his lawyer because his dad has passed away and he was going to come into his trust but he needed to meet certain terms of the trust in order to get it. The big one being be settled down. Then he spots Tenley and basically just kidnaps her. Though it's seen pretty quickly how she is unaffected by this kidnapping and he then thinks maybe she kidnapped him instead.
Their banter back and forth throughout this book was so cute and Tenley was such a spitfire the whole time. It was so nice to see that they had chemistry from the very beginning and when they finally give into the tension that has been going between them it was nice and hot.
This was a fun, cute read.
Knox, meanwhile, was on the phone with his lawyer because his dad has passed away and he was going to come into his trust but he needed to meet certain terms of the trust in order to get it. The big one being be settled down. Then he spots Tenley and basically just kidnaps her. Though it's seen pretty quickly how she is unaffected by this kidnapping and he then thinks maybe she kidnapped him instead.
Their banter back and forth throughout this book was so cute and Tenley was such a spitfire the whole time. It was so nice to see that they had chemistry from the very beginning and when they finally give into the tension that has been going between them it was nice and hot.
This was a fun, cute read.
January 4, 2024
I found this to be a fun likable story and was right up my alley. Tenley Taylor needs a way out of town along with the bag of stolen diamonds she has. Enter her mark Knox Wilder who thinks he has kidnapped her or at least is under that impression. He is shocked when a few miles down the road she has turned the tables on him and he realizes he is way in over his head. It only gets worse when he sees her in action with the police officer at a checkpoint and the way she handles herself and that whole interaction just sets you up for the rest of the book. There is of course the two of trying to figure out each other and Tenley of not thinking that Knox would want anything to do with her, but by the time you get to the end you are left with a good story and you are sad it has ended at least I was. A good story with good characters and very much worth the read. I received this book from Netgalley.com
December 30, 2023
4 stars
This snarky, witty, funny, adorable rom com was the perfect way for me to end 2023. Knox and Tenley were adorable and perfect and I'm not ready to say goodbye to them. I'm excited this is the first of a series and there will be more in the future. I have a feeling Ren is going to be next which is going to be fantastic I can already tell.
This book has all the stuff I love so much in one place:
Morally grey heroine/Ex-con hero
Grumpy sunshine romance
Forced proximity/One Bed
strangers/Enemies to Lovers
Marriage of Convenience/Fake Dating
No 3rd Act Break Up
HEA
Revenge
Spice
The spice wasn't too spicy, but it was the perfect balance for keeping the plot going and not overpowering the story. I'm so glad that everyone got what they deserved and it was SO SO SO much fun to watch it happen.
Thanks NetGalley for giving me this book in exchange for my honest review.
This snarky, witty, funny, adorable rom com was the perfect way for me to end 2023. Knox and Tenley were adorable and perfect and I'm not ready to say goodbye to them. I'm excited this is the first of a series and there will be more in the future. I have a feeling Ren is going to be next which is going to be fantastic I can already tell.
This book has all the stuff I love so much in one place:
Morally grey heroine/Ex-con hero
Grumpy sunshine romance
Forced proximity/One Bed
strangers/Enemies to Lovers
Marriage of Convenience/Fake Dating
No 3rd Act Break Up
HEA
Revenge
Spice
The spice wasn't too spicy, but it was the perfect balance for keeping the plot going and not overpowering the story. I'm so glad that everyone got what they deserved and it was SO SO SO much fun to watch it happen.
Thanks NetGalley for giving me this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2024
This was a buddy read and well… here are my notes 🤣
-So corny and full of cliches
-Brain rot
-One bed 🤢
-Repeats everything - even though the story started out fast I feel like the in the next chapters just reiterated everything that was already said with a few new details…
-Too big of emotions and thoughts for characters that just met under a kidnapping situation
-Don’t like the authors writing. No chemistry, choppy, doesn’t flow smoothly …
-just lots of ick with the writing
-😮💨🤣
SO CLICHE. ALL OF IT. OMG🤦🏻♀️
-one voice, no character distinction even when POV changes….
-big strong jail man acts like a wimpy little girl… and says things like “yay, tenley!” 😒
-some very small chuckle worth parts..
-DNF at chapter 13 (page 89) and that was me really freaking trying to push through…
-So corny and full of cliches
-Brain rot
-One bed 🤢
-Repeats everything - even though the story started out fast I feel like the in the next chapters just reiterated everything that was already said with a few new details…
-Too big of emotions and thoughts for characters that just met under a kidnapping situation
-Don’t like the authors writing. No chemistry, choppy, doesn’t flow smoothly …
-just lots of ick with the writing
-😮💨🤣
SO CLICHE. ALL OF IT. OMG🤦🏻♀️
-one voice, no character distinction even when POV changes….
-big strong jail man acts like a wimpy little girl… and says things like “yay, tenley!” 😒
-some very small chuckle worth parts..
-DNF at chapter 13 (page 89) and that was me really freaking trying to push through…
December 12, 2023
First of all, I want to thank NetGalley for an ARC. This book was a funny, entertaining, rom-com. I could picture it like a cheesy movie in my head the whole time I was reading. While the chemistry was not very obvious between the characters, I will say there was “something” there between them. There’s fake dating, marriage of convenience, one bed, and forced proximity tropes. I loved Tenley’s attitude and how she didn’t take any shit from anyone, but also the way she was defending Knox and helping him restart his life.
This was such a cute, entertaining, fast read that made me forget I was reading and just have a good time.
This was such a cute, entertaining, fast read that made me forget I was reading and just have a good time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews