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Under the Radar
My boyfriend is perfect. He drinks red wine, listens to true crime podcasts, and loves the theater. So what if I don't know what he does for work, where his family is from, or who his friends are?My friends disagree. They're convinced that Jared either has a secret family, is a serial killer, or is a spy. When they wheedle me into some harmless stalking, I discover that the truth is wilder than fiction.
Under the Radar is part of the Accidentally Undercover shared romantic suspense series.
Under the Radar is part of the Accidentally Undercover shared romantic suspense series.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2024
21 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
May 1, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
How is he real? How can someone be sweetness and sunshine, and filthy and badass all at the same time?
Let me start by saying that I absolutely love this concept. I was immediately sold from the blurb alone and feel lucky to have gotten an ARC. Ultimately I do think the book needed to be longer? There’s a lot of great potential, but there were a couple of things I wish had been explored more. And y’all know I’m a low angst girlie through and through, but I think this situation needed some. I think Logan is an awesome, forgiving and understanding character and I wouldn’t want to take that away from him in any way, but trust was broken in a pretty bad way, and I wanted to see that rebuilt, and preferably some groveling. By the end it felt forgotten about. Admittedly I’m not what you would call a forgiving person, lol.
I did love Logan and Jared together and they had really good chemistry from the start. The way their snuggles and hugs were described gave me the warm and fuzzies, and the spice gave me the warm and… well, let’s just say that Linden Bell can write sex. I think I would say one of the very best at it.
For the action and suspense parts, I was thoroughly entertained. This is a new direction for the author as far as I know, and I really do hope they keep writing suspense as it’s my favorite genre, and I adore Linden’s writing. I will say (while trying not to spoil anything), that the explanation for why ‘shit went down’ near the end wasn’t good enough to really sell it for me.
Would’ve loved a longer epilogue, but I was really happy to see Logan’s golden retriever himbo energy back in full swing. Again, Linden is awesome, the premise is really original, and I wish it was longer to really bring it all home.
I’ll be crossing my fingers for more romantic suspense from this author.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
FBI agent
Hookup to lovers
Romantic suspense
Himbo
Golden retriever MC
Secret identity
Grumpy/sunshine
Dirty talk
C*ck + fingers
Felching
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gun violence
Alcohol consumption (clubbing with friends - Intoxicated)
MCs kidnapped on page
Mentions of the death of a SC’s child (gun violence, past, off page)
Graphic violence
MCs beaten up and injured
Severely injured MC (gunshot wound, on page)
MC hospitalized
On-page murder
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 28 and 33
Series: Interconnected standalone, shared universe
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 217
“Every cut, every bruise, every scar. I want to kiss each one and make them mine. I’ll chase away every ounce of hurt, every inch of pain, until you’re whole again.”
I’m not some strapping hero. I’m not John Wick or Jack Reacher or James Bond. I’m just a lowly juice bar barista.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
How is he real? How can someone be sweetness and sunshine, and filthy and badass all at the same time?
Let me start by saying that I absolutely love this concept. I was immediately sold from the blurb alone and feel lucky to have gotten an ARC. Ultimately I do think the book needed to be longer? There’s a lot of great potential, but there were a couple of things I wish had been explored more. And y’all know I’m a low angst girlie through and through, but I think this situation needed some. I think Logan is an awesome, forgiving and understanding character and I wouldn’t want to take that away from him in any way, but trust was broken in a pretty bad way, and I wanted to see that rebuilt, and preferably some groveling. By the end it felt forgotten about. Admittedly I’m not what you would call a forgiving person, lol.
I did love Logan and Jared together and they had really good chemistry from the start. The way their snuggles and hugs were described gave me the warm and fuzzies, and the spice gave me the warm and… well, let’s just say that Linden Bell can write sex. I think I would say one of the very best at it.
For the action and suspense parts, I was thoroughly entertained. This is a new direction for the author as far as I know, and I really do hope they keep writing suspense as it’s my favorite genre, and I adore Linden’s writing. I will say (while trying not to spoil anything), that the explanation for why ‘shit went down’ near the end wasn’t good enough to really sell it for me.
Would’ve loved a longer epilogue, but I was really happy to see Logan’s golden retriever himbo energy back in full swing. Again, Linden is awesome, the premise is really original, and I wish it was longer to really bring it all home.
I’ll be crossing my fingers for more romantic suspense from this author.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
FBI agent
Hookup to lovers
Romantic suspense
Himbo
Golden retriever MC
Secret identity
Grumpy/sunshine
Dirty talk
C*ck + fingers
Felching
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gun violence
Alcohol consumption (clubbing with friends - Intoxicated)
MCs kidnapped on page
Mentions of the death of a SC’s child (gun violence, past, off page)
Graphic violence
MCs beaten up and injured
Severely injured MC (gunshot wound, on page)
MC hospitalized
On-page murder
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 28 and 33
Series: Interconnected standalone, shared universe
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 217
“Every cut, every bruise, every scar. I want to kiss each one and make them mine. I’ll chase away every ounce of hurt, every inch of pain, until you’re whole again.”
I’m not some strapping hero. I’m not John Wick or Jack Reacher or James Bond. I’m just a lowly juice bar barista.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
April 18, 2024
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
Tons of action, car chases, secret agents, general badassery and a sizzling romance.
Under the Radar was a fun spin on your typical romance. More focused on the action than the actual romance, but still pretty entertaining.
It was like watching one of those ultra cheesy, extra cheese, ‘stop-I’m-lactose-intolerant’ level of cheesiness, action movies. Flying bullets, bad guy villains, some near death experiences. You know, typical action movie stuff, but make it gay.
It lacked a bit of development in some parts, though. The six month time skip at the start really deprives you of the whole beginning of their relationship, making it feel way too fast and insta-love.
I also would’ve liked maybe some more backstory and depth to the characters.
Overall, a pretty fun, low-angst and fast-paced read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Secret agent
- Hidden identity
- Kidnapping
- Mild violence
- Mentions of parental neglect (off page, brief)
- Insta-lust
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
Tons of action, car chases, secret agents, general badassery and a sizzling romance.
Under the Radar was a fun spin on your typical romance. More focused on the action than the actual romance, but still pretty entertaining.
It was like watching one of those ultra cheesy, extra cheese, ‘stop-I’m-lactose-intolerant’ level of cheesiness, action movies. Flying bullets, bad guy villains, some near death experiences. You know, typical action movie stuff, but make it gay.
It lacked a bit of development in some parts, though. The six month time skip at the start really deprives you of the whole beginning of their relationship, making it feel way too fast and insta-love.
I also would’ve liked maybe some more backstory and depth to the characters.
Overall, a pretty fun, low-angst and fast-paced read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Secret agent
- Hidden identity
- Kidnapping
- Mild violence
- Mentions of parental neglect (off page, brief)
- Insta-lust
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
May 22, 2024
Meh it was ok
April 29, 2024
Linden Bell always writes the best stories and this suspense romance was just as good as the rest of her books.
Logan was an innocent and sweet guy, working as a juice barista at a gym and dating a guy who he knew almost nothing about. Jared hated to have kept his identity a secret to Logan, someone who was special and important for him, but after dating him for several months he didn't know how to approach the subject. Then they got kidnapped and everything was uncovered leaving a hurt Logan and both of them in a difficult situation.
Well, I truly enjoyed this book as it was packed with action, suspense and dangerous situations! Also, Logan and Jared were so beautiful together and their relationship was very romantic. They really loved each other and even when things got complicated and their lives were put at risk, Logan never hesitated to trust Jared.
This book hooked me from the beginning. The plot was interesting and there was always something going on. It was very hot to see Jared acting as the FBI agent that he was, and I also loved how brave Logan became. He went from this cute, innocent barista into a courageous and fearless man that was willing to risk his life to help his partner.
It was a very entertaining read, with great secondary characters (I loved seeing some of the guys from Linden's previous books!) and an easy to read plot with an amazing couple. I loved this book so much, just like everything this author writes.
Logan was an innocent and sweet guy, working as a juice barista at a gym and dating a guy who he knew almost nothing about. Jared hated to have kept his identity a secret to Logan, someone who was special and important for him, but after dating him for several months he didn't know how to approach the subject. Then they got kidnapped and everything was uncovered leaving a hurt Logan and both of them in a difficult situation.
Well, I truly enjoyed this book as it was packed with action, suspense and dangerous situations! Also, Logan and Jared were so beautiful together and their relationship was very romantic. They really loved each other and even when things got complicated and their lives were put at risk, Logan never hesitated to trust Jared.
This book hooked me from the beginning. The plot was interesting and there was always something going on. It was very hot to see Jared acting as the FBI agent that he was, and I also loved how brave Logan became. He went from this cute, innocent barista into a courageous and fearless man that was willing to risk his life to help his partner.
It was a very entertaining read, with great secondary characters (I loved seeing some of the guys from Linden's previous books!) and an easy to read plot with an amazing couple. I loved this book so much, just like everything this author writes.
April 23, 2024
Logan & Jared (Jay)
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
- FBI Agent/Juice Bar Barista
- Hookup-to-Lovers
- Secret Identity
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
- Established Couple
This is the sixth book in the series and can be read as a standalone. It is adjacent to the Mars Fitness series, where you get to meet the rest of the guys that is Logan's gym family. Some of their backstories are vaguely mentioned in this book.
I was definitely sold on the blurb and that's why I picked up the ARC for this book. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it but I do wish that it was longer, where you got more connection with the couples’ romance. The book starts off with some heat when as the prologue of these two meeting, then jumps into them being together for six months at this point. The majority of this book is action filled as Logan and Jared try to stay alive.
Logan and his boyfriend "Jay" have been together for six months but his friends think he's not real because they haven't met him and Logan doesn't really know much about the man. Logan never questioned Jay because they were so good together. His friends talk him into stalking Jay to see where he lives at least, so begins the world of crazy. Before Logan even gets a chance to confront Jay on what he saw while following him, they both get kidnapped and a bit tortured. A very bad man that Jared dealt with before has a bone to pick with the Agent and Logan gets caught up in the mess. The couple now has to work together to get free from their captors and bring in the bad guy, all without dying, which Jared got real close multiple times in this story. Talk about giving the reader a heart attack!
Whenever there was downtime in between the bullets flying, you get to see the couple work on forgiveness and truly learning about each other with no more lies or half-truths from Jared. You also get to read a lot of this might be the last time we do this sexy times in here. They have great chemistry with each other from the start and I liked them as a couple and individuals. Honestly, I'm surprised that Logan could forgive Jared for the huge breach of trust over six months. He does though and they fight for their second chance, literally. I was looking for some hardcore groveling from Jared but we don't get what I felt was needed for his discretion and the dangerous position he put Logan in. Poor baby Logan had his sunshine dimmed throughout this one as he had to see and do things, he never thought imaginable. The author did make sure to have the characters advocate for therapy both mental and physical after their ordeal.
This is a lot of action and suspense with some romance sprinkled into it. If that's what you're looking for, then this is the read for you.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
Ages: 28 & 33
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
- FBI Agent/Juice Bar Barista
- Hookup-to-Lovers
- Secret Identity
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
- Established Couple
This is the sixth book in the series and can be read as a standalone. It is adjacent to the Mars Fitness series, where you get to meet the rest of the guys that is Logan's gym family. Some of their backstories are vaguely mentioned in this book.
I was definitely sold on the blurb and that's why I picked up the ARC for this book. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it but I do wish that it was longer, where you got more connection with the couples’ romance. The book starts off with some heat when as the prologue of these two meeting, then jumps into them being together for six months at this point. The majority of this book is action filled as Logan and Jared try to stay alive.
Logan and his boyfriend "Jay" have been together for six months but his friends think he's not real because they haven't met him and Logan doesn't really know much about the man. Logan never questioned Jay because they were so good together. His friends talk him into stalking Jay to see where he lives at least, so begins the world of crazy. Before Logan even gets a chance to confront Jay on what he saw while following him, they both get kidnapped and a bit tortured. A very bad man that Jared dealt with before has a bone to pick with the Agent and Logan gets caught up in the mess. The couple now has to work together to get free from their captors and bring in the bad guy, all without dying, which Jared got real close multiple times in this story. Talk about giving the reader a heart attack!
Whenever there was downtime in between the bullets flying, you get to see the couple work on forgiveness and truly learning about each other with no more lies or half-truths from Jared. You also get to read a lot of this might be the last time we do this sexy times in here. They have great chemistry with each other from the start and I liked them as a couple and individuals. Honestly, I'm surprised that Logan could forgive Jared for the huge breach of trust over six months. He does though and they fight for their second chance, literally. I was looking for some hardcore groveling from Jared but we don't get what I felt was needed for his discretion and the dangerous position he put Logan in. Poor baby Logan had his sunshine dimmed throughout this one as he had to see and do things, he never thought imaginable. The author did make sure to have the characters advocate for therapy both mental and physical after their ordeal.
“I know I have no right to say that to you now, not after everything I’ve put you through. It’s unfair, selfish, and manipulative, but it’s also the truth. I love you. You are my light in the darkness. My shelter from the storm. My comfort when life has gone to shit. I understand if you don’t return my feelings, if you want me to fuck right off. But I need you to know. I love you. I have for a while now and I’ll continue loving you no matter what.”
This is a lot of action and suspense with some romance sprinkled into it. If that's what you're looking for, then this is the read for you.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
Ages: 28 & 33
May 16, 2024
2.5 stars rounded down. This book felt ass-backwards to me in terms of timeline. It starts with a man (Jared) seeing another man (Logan) at a club, falling instantly into lust with him and then into bed; no build-up, no getting to know each other, nothing. Then we skip a few months into the future and find Logan, who is this bubbly guy working at a juice bar trying to convince his friends that his mysterious boyfriend (Jared) is not a serial killer because Logan knows nothing about him at all, has never even been to his house, never met any of his friends. But Logan insists he's a good guy. Suffice it to say that Jared has secrets. The book then becomes a chaotic action movie in which Jared's true identity is revealed and Logan just goes along for the ride. I found Logan really naive, and disliked him for it. I also felt that their chemistry was very manufactured, because we spend no time with them outside of the crisis they find themselves in, we have little investment in them as an established couple. Sure, there were exciting action sequences and like 1 really hot spicy scene, but otherwise I didn't much care about what happened to them.
May 11, 2024
Jak Twój facet okazuje się agentem FBI , a Ty o tym nie wiesz, co może pójść nie tak.... Pierwsze 50% fajnie się czytało, pościgi, strzelanie, o to jest to, a później no cóż był seks i tu zaczęłam się śmiać i to nie było zabawne. Śmiałam się bo to było głupie i niepotrzebne.ups
April 25, 2024
Under the Radar is a part of the Accidentally Undercover shared romantic suspense series. It’s a MM opposites attract romance that can be read as a standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Logan and Jared:
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Secret identity
- One night stand
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Adorable himbo juice barista
- Hardened undercover federal agent
- Action and suspense
- Low angst
- Takes place in the Mars Fitness world
This was just a cute, low angst read! At just over 200 pages, I got through it quite quickly. I grew up reading mystery/suspense books, and I love a good police procedural. When you mix that with queer romance? I knew I had to request an ARC for this one! We briefly meet Logan in the first two Mars Fitness books, and I’m so happy he got his own story! Fans of Stackedwill enjoy the Sawyer cameos for sure in this one. I wasn’t sure what to think when I saw that a romantic suspense book could be classified as low angst, but this definitely fits the bill. I loved that we got some spice right off the bat, and then we were thrown into the thick of things as Logan realizes he knows a lot less about the man he’s seeing than he probably should. As their story continues, it was sweet watching them learn to trust one another and put their “brand new” relationship to the test. Although there wasn’t a ton of spice in this book due to the suspenseful nature, what Linden did get in there packed a punch! I swear, this author writes the best spice.
If you’re looking for a fun, easy read and you’re already a fan of Linden’s work, consider checking out Under the Radar - especially if you’re a fan of mysteries and police procedurals like me!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Secret identity
- One night stand
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Adorable himbo juice barista
- Hardened undercover federal agent
- Action and suspense
- Low angst
- Takes place in the Mars Fitness world
Pride wells up in me at how brave he’s being. Logan is happiness and sunshine personified, but beneath that fluffy, fuzzy exterior is a core that’s much stronger than I’ve given him credit for. If I get us out of here, and if he’s willing to give me a second chance, that won’t be a mistake I’ll ever make again.
This was just a cute, low angst read! At just over 200 pages, I got through it quite quickly. I grew up reading mystery/suspense books, and I love a good police procedural. When you mix that with queer romance? I knew I had to request an ARC for this one! We briefly meet Logan in the first two Mars Fitness books, and I’m so happy he got his own story! Fans of Stackedwill enjoy the Sawyer cameos for sure in this one. I wasn’t sure what to think when I saw that a romantic suspense book could be classified as low angst, but this definitely fits the bill. I loved that we got some spice right off the bat, and then we were thrown into the thick of things as Logan realizes he knows a lot less about the man he’s seeing than he probably should. As their story continues, it was sweet watching them learn to trust one another and put their “brand new” relationship to the test. Although there wasn’t a ton of spice in this book due to the suspenseful nature, what Linden did get in there packed a punch! I swear, this author writes the best spice.
If you’re looking for a fun, easy read and you’re already a fan of Linden’s work, consider checking out Under the Radar - especially if you’re a fan of mysteries and police procedurals like me!
Jared’s big hands wrap around my hips, and his thumbs fit perfectly in the two dimples on my lower back. It’s like I was made for him. Made for him to hold, made to hold him.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2024
This book is packed with action and a few good spicy scenes ❤️ Easy to read and a good flow to the story😊
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 30, 2024
Rating: 3.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: romantic suspense, MM
Main tropes: forced proximity, opposites attract, suspense
Under the Radar was an entertaining story with secret identity, suspense and action!
I've loved Linden Bell's story so far, so I was really excited for this romantic suspense with Logan from Mars Fitness. The chemistry between him and Jared was great and I liked how they met and how them hooking up turned into more. It was very low angst considering the tropes involved, and to be honest, I expected more of a reaction from Logan once he found out the truth about Jared's identity.
The story was fast paced and entertaining, a lot of action and dangerous situation going on that both Jared and Logan got dragged into. I felt like the relationship development between Logan and Jared was missing though, as there was a time skip pretty early on. I wanted to see more of them and I think it would also had made me feel more invested in their situation and the suspense. Overall it just felt a little one dimensional to me, and I struggled some with the situations they ended up with the "bad guy" as well.
Under the Radar was a story that had a lot of potential, but sadly I felt like it was lacking a little and struggled with parts of it. It was a pretty wild and entertaining read though, and I enjoyed the fast pace and the suspense! Logan was such a sweet character as well, and I liked what he and Jared had together. If you're looking for a fast paced and entertaining read with a lot of action, you might enjoy this one!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: romantic suspense, MM
Main tropes: forced proximity, opposites attract, suspense
Under the Radar was an entertaining story with secret identity, suspense and action!
I've loved Linden Bell's story so far, so I was really excited for this romantic suspense with Logan from Mars Fitness. The chemistry between him and Jared was great and I liked how they met and how them hooking up turned into more. It was very low angst considering the tropes involved, and to be honest, I expected more of a reaction from Logan once he found out the truth about Jared's identity.
The story was fast paced and entertaining, a lot of action and dangerous situation going on that both Jared and Logan got dragged into. I felt like the relationship development between Logan and Jared was missing though, as there was a time skip pretty early on. I wanted to see more of them and I think it would also had made me feel more invested in their situation and the suspense. Overall it just felt a little one dimensional to me, and I struggled some with the situations they ended up with the "bad guy" as well.
Under the Radar was a story that had a lot of potential, but sadly I felt like it was lacking a little and struggled with parts of it. It was a pretty wild and entertaining read though, and I enjoyed the fast pace and the suspense! Logan was such a sweet character as well, and I liked what he and Jared had together. If you're looking for a fast paced and entertaining read with a lot of action, you might enjoy this one!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 22, 2024
The couple is already a thing when the book starts, so I had to read this one! I was interested in it because it's kind of a lesser done trope. The MCs start off together even though one is pretending to NOT be an FBI agent, he is definitely not suspicious at ALL (still not sure why Jared was an idiot about that lol). Logan sets out to find the truth about what his bf actually does for a living and things spiral out from there. Logan is so cute!! I love how he was just a chill sunshine juice bar barista but still wrangled the big tough FBI boyfriend with ease.
There is some kidnapping, car chases, and other miscellaneous action, but honestly I felt like mainly this is just a bunch of fluff with Logan and Jared being complete saps for each other and showing off how in love they are - no third act breakup or otherwise and that was just really nice. The action was fun, but I mainly enjoyed the parts in-between when there was no drama and Logan and Jared being sweet to each other. It was a fun and lighthearted read, went by quick, a good choice if you want something on the shorter side.
Under the Radar is out April 30th!
There is some kidnapping, car chases, and other miscellaneous action, but honestly I felt like mainly this is just a bunch of fluff with Logan and Jared being complete saps for each other and showing off how in love they are - no third act breakup or otherwise and that was just really nice. The action was fun, but I mainly enjoyed the parts in-between when there was no drama and Logan and Jared being sweet to each other. It was a fun and lighthearted read, went by quick, a good choice if you want something on the shorter side.
Under the Radar is out April 30th!
dnf
April 24, 2024I received a free copy from Gay Romance Reviews and voluntarily reviewed it
I DNF'd this one at 34%
I requested this one as I read another book in this Accidentally Undercover series and was curious about the other books. I am not a big romantic suspense fan and didn't realize this one would deal with kidnapping and violence and jump into the suspense so quickly. I had hoped for more about the romance. The romance that was there also wasn't really enough to hook me yet, but I liked the couple so far. I liked how one was this big softy and a ray of sunshine while the other guy was a hardened FBI agent.
The prologue and then 6 month jump to chapter 1 was a bit jarring and means there isn't much about how they got together. I had hoped to see more of them afterwards, but then it jumps into the suspense shortly after Logan following Jared and figuring out he is not who he thought he was. To sum it up not really the fault of the book, more of me having the wrong expectations and wanting more romance and less suspense.
I DNF'd this one at 34%
I requested this one as I read another book in this Accidentally Undercover series and was curious about the other books. I am not a big romantic suspense fan and didn't realize this one would deal with kidnapping and violence and jump into the suspense so quickly. I had hoped for more about the romance. The romance that was there also wasn't really enough to hook me yet, but I liked the couple so far. I liked how one was this big softy and a ray of sunshine while the other guy was a hardened FBI agent.
The prologue and then 6 month jump to chapter 1 was a bit jarring and means there isn't much about how they got together. I had hoped to see more of them afterwards, but then it jumps into the suspense shortly after Logan following Jared and figuring out he is not who he thought he was. To sum it up not really the fault of the book, more of me having the wrong expectations and wanting more romance and less suspense.
May 1, 2024
A good start to the book but it’s not long before things get dangerous for them as one of Jared’s past enemies comes back to stir trouble for him.
Jared was needing a hookup for the night after his weeks working a FBI case in the prologue. He as Jay meets Logan for hot hot sizzles in the prologue.
Fast forward Jay and Logan are boyfriends as far as Logan knows after 6 months dating. Jay plays the illusive man disappearing when it's time to meet friends of Logan’s.
The truth of Jay’s secrets was found by Logan’s sleuth buddies but they get the wrong end of the stick making things worse for Logan.
I really like this series so far with the books that I’ve read, as there's mystery and dangers along with romance that doesn't go smoothly. .
One of Jared’s old cases gets brought back into the limelight when he escapes custody. Lots of scenes play out as Logan, 28 yrs, is caught in the crossfire of a killer, one that wants revenge on Jared, 34 yrs.
This includes both povs for their story with an hea finish. I really liked this one for the sexy scenes and their chemistry with dramas getting dicey. Logan is there to help Jared when he’s down. A good ending for all the dramas and romance for an HEA.
Jared was needing a hookup for the night after his weeks working a FBI case in the prologue. He as Jay meets Logan for hot hot sizzles in the prologue.
Fast forward Jay and Logan are boyfriends as far as Logan knows after 6 months dating. Jay plays the illusive man disappearing when it's time to meet friends of Logan’s.
The truth of Jay’s secrets was found by Logan’s sleuth buddies but they get the wrong end of the stick making things worse for Logan.
I really like this series so far with the books that I’ve read, as there's mystery and dangers along with romance that doesn't go smoothly. .
One of Jared’s old cases gets brought back into the limelight when he escapes custody. Lots of scenes play out as Logan, 28 yrs, is caught in the crossfire of a killer, one that wants revenge on Jared, 34 yrs.
This includes both povs for their story with an hea finish. I really liked this one for the sexy scenes and their chemistry with dramas getting dicey. Logan is there to help Jared when he’s down. A good ending for all the dramas and romance for an HEA.
May 2, 2024
SECRETS AND LIES ALWAYS SURFACE!👀
Jared (Jay) and Logan were mentioned in Stacked the Mars Fitness series and now we get a deeper insight as to how they met, had a hookup that led to so much more BUT…
Jay is not who he portrays to be and when the truth is revealed in the most horrific way for Logan our fruit juice barista gets involved in car chases, abductions, fatal shootouts and sting operations by a dangerous arms dealer out for revenge!
This is Logan and his FBI agent boyfriends tumulus journey which will either make them or break them…🫂
This is not a low angst story like the Mars Fitness series, it is action packed and jam packed with lots of steamy scenes!🔥
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
Jared (Jay) and Logan were mentioned in Stacked the Mars Fitness series and now we get a deeper insight as to how they met, had a hookup that led to so much more BUT…
Jay is not who he portrays to be and when the truth is revealed in the most horrific way for Logan our fruit juice barista gets involved in car chases, abductions, fatal shootouts and sting operations by a dangerous arms dealer out for revenge!
This is Logan and his FBI agent boyfriends tumulus journey which will either make them or break them…🫂
This is not a low angst story like the Mars Fitness series, it is action packed and jam packed with lots of steamy scenes!🔥
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
May 3, 2024
3.5☆
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖:🔥
𝕃𝕒𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕤:🤣
𝕋𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕤:🥲
𝕄ℂ𝕤: Logan,Jared(Jay)
ℙ𝕆𝕍: 1st, Dual.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤: Secret identity ,Grumpy Sunshine, Low Angst.
Creo que este libro ha sido lo más flojo que he leído de Linden, no está mal pero le hizo falta más trabajo para lograr entrar dentro de un suspenso/policíaco. Aunque forma parte del universo de Mars Fitness pasa sin pena ni gloria completamente desapercibido con si conexión. Conflicto, una solución rápida, romance ya esta hecho todo desde que comienza el cap 1. Trama ya es demasiado simple.
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖:🔥
𝕃𝕒𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕤:🤣
𝕋𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕤:🥲
𝕄ℂ𝕤: Logan,Jared(Jay)
ℙ𝕆𝕍: 1st, Dual.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤: Secret identity ,Grumpy Sunshine, Low Angst.
Creo que este libro ha sido lo más flojo que he leído de Linden, no está mal pero le hizo falta más trabajo para lograr entrar dentro de un suspenso/policíaco. Aunque forma parte del universo de Mars Fitness pasa sin pena ni gloria completamente desapercibido con si conexión. Conflicto, una solución rápida, romance ya esta hecho todo desde que comienza el cap 1. Trama ya es demasiado simple.
April 30, 2024
An action-packed romp, with plenty of sweetness and steam!
Logan is the adorable sunshine himbo who works the juice bar at Mars Fitness. If you’ve read Stacked, you’ll remember he is in love with falling in love and recently got a mysterious new boyfriend, Jay. While his friends note that he seems to be missing key info about this new guy, Logan is blissfully ignorant. Jay, whose name is Jared, is an FBI agent accustomed to keeping his real life a secret. Just as Logan starts to put the pieces together, an enemy from Jared’s past shows up looking for revenge.
Linden Bell is a talented writer, and this genre shift is executed with style. The plot conforms to action-movie tropes, with the addition of some tried-and-true romance staples. Logan and Jared are sweet together, I would have happily read more of the tension and build of their relationship. The pacing was good for the shorter length of the story and when we do get spice, it was spicing in true Linden style! I loved seeing cameos of the Mars boys, as well. This would be a good one to grab for anyone looking to branch out into either romance or suspense books, and fans of Linden will not want to miss!
*I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review*
Logan is the adorable sunshine himbo who works the juice bar at Mars Fitness. If you’ve read Stacked, you’ll remember he is in love with falling in love and recently got a mysterious new boyfriend, Jay. While his friends note that he seems to be missing key info about this new guy, Logan is blissfully ignorant. Jay, whose name is Jared, is an FBI agent accustomed to keeping his real life a secret. Just as Logan starts to put the pieces together, an enemy from Jared’s past shows up looking for revenge.
Linden Bell is a talented writer, and this genre shift is executed with style. The plot conforms to action-movie tropes, with the addition of some tried-and-true romance staples. Logan and Jared are sweet together, I would have happily read more of the tension and build of their relationship. The pacing was good for the shorter length of the story and when we do get spice, it was spicing in true Linden style! I loved seeing cameos of the Mars boys, as well. This would be a good one to grab for anyone looking to branch out into either romance or suspense books, and fans of Linden will not want to miss!
*I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review*
April 29, 2024
This was a very quick read, a lot is packed into this sweet n spicy book. Jared is afraid of loosing Logan if he finds out what he does for a living and the truth comes out in the most horrifying way possible and Logan is pulled into a plan to now catch some bad guys that are after Jared. The story is action packed and the two are in survival mode while trying to figure out what the truth means for their relationship. I really enjoyed it and it left me wanting more in the best way, wish it would have been longer, I would have loved to get to know the characters more and seeing more of their relationship development on page.
Expect:
* Forced proximity
* Opposites attract
* Starts with a One night stand
* Secrets and lies
* Suspense
* Steamy
Expect:
* Forced proximity
* Opposites attract
* Starts with a One night stand
* Secrets and lies
* Suspense
* Steamy
July 24, 2025
A little bit of this, a little bit of that, that's what you get in this fabulously intense tale. Romance, drama, stalking, evil men, kidnapping, and some really REALLY hot sex scenes, and I mean hot! All that rolled into one beautifully laid out story. Jared and Logan are an adorable pair swept up into hijinks, sometimes exciting, sometimes downright scary, but all making this a wonderful read.
April 30, 2024
Wow this book was good! Got to see more of Logan from Mars fitness and man did he have to go through a lot. Jared is such a sweetheart but has a hard time opening up. This book makes you wanna hug Logan. I’m happy for Logan and Jared they deserve each other.
April 21, 2024
Wow! Linden Bell has definitely proved their versatility as an author. When I first heard they were planning on writing an action book, my brain kinda stalled and went 'what?!' because action and suspense is really not what I've associated with Linden up to now. However, I was excited to read it.
For the first few chapters I really didn't know where it was going or what it was trying to be. First it was a ton of spice, then it took a bit of a detour into farce with the Mars Fitness guys trying to tail Logan's mysterious boyfriend and then it was suddenly all the action all the time. After a while it settled into a solid action book with occasional sexy times. There was a tiny bit of the tenderness Linden is known for but I would have liked more.
I'm probably not the right reader for this book, as I generally enjoy books where the most stressful thing that happens is someone drops tacos on the floor, but I did read this straight through. I think it will be great for the action readers, and I definitely enjoyed some parts. I feel like it focused a little too much on the action for my tastes, and skipped over the romance. We see them meet, and then suddenly it's six months later, meaning we miss all the good stuff of the relationship and character development. Even some flashbacks would have really helped with this, but there was nothing. It gave it an instalove feel, which isn't my thing, and the fact they were trying to rebuild their relationship after Jared was outed as an FBI agent also gave it a second-chance vibe, which is something I really dislike. Despite that, it had some sweet moments, and both guys were cute. As always with Linden, the spice is off the charts hot. While it has a character from the Mars Fitness universe, the lovely Logan, it doesn't really fit with the other Mars Fitness books. I haven't read the other books in the multi-author series, but I'm sure it's far more in keeping with their high-octane shenanigans. Speaking of high octane, it's a minor spoiler but I was disappointed that Jared stayed on active duty. Everything seemed to be hinting that he was burnt out on field work and would either take a desk job or take up personal training or physio or something at the gym. Having him return to active field work at the FBI felt weird after the character pretty much admitted he'd fallen into it by accident and wasn't passionate about it. I hope he retires soon-- I want him safe, dammit! I get protective over characters lol.
If you're into nonstop action with some romance, this is definitely for you, and I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. I even enjoyed it, despite it being the polar opposite of my thing, and the action was done well. I was very anxious for most of it and freaking out over their safety, and I liked that Logan was traumatised and needed some time to recover from events. That seemed realistic and it was good he got some counselling. The bonus scene also added a bit to it by way of an extra epilogue, and gave more of a picture of their lives after it all went down. Definitely a good read and shows the author can write all sorts of things.
For the first few chapters I really didn't know where it was going or what it was trying to be. First it was a ton of spice, then it took a bit of a detour into farce with the Mars Fitness guys trying to tail Logan's mysterious boyfriend and then it was suddenly all the action all the time. After a while it settled into a solid action book with occasional sexy times. There was a tiny bit of the tenderness Linden is known for but I would have liked more.
I'm probably not the right reader for this book, as I generally enjoy books where the most stressful thing that happens is someone drops tacos on the floor, but I did read this straight through. I think it will be great for the action readers, and I definitely enjoyed some parts. I feel like it focused a little too much on the action for my tastes, and skipped over the romance. We see them meet, and then suddenly it's six months later, meaning we miss all the good stuff of the relationship and character development. Even some flashbacks would have really helped with this, but there was nothing. It gave it an instalove feel, which isn't my thing, and the fact they were trying to rebuild their relationship after Jared was outed as an FBI agent also gave it a second-chance vibe, which is something I really dislike. Despite that, it had some sweet moments, and both guys were cute. As always with Linden, the spice is off the charts hot. While it has a character from the Mars Fitness universe, the lovely Logan, it doesn't really fit with the other Mars Fitness books. I haven't read the other books in the multi-author series, but I'm sure it's far more in keeping with their high-octane shenanigans. Speaking of high octane, it's a minor spoiler but I was disappointed that Jared stayed on active duty. Everything seemed to be hinting that he was burnt out on field work and would either take a desk job or take up personal training or physio or something at the gym. Having him return to active field work at the FBI felt weird after the character pretty much admitted he'd fallen into it by accident and wasn't passionate about it. I hope he retires soon-- I want him safe, dammit! I get protective over characters lol.
If you're into nonstop action with some romance, this is definitely for you, and I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. I even enjoyed it, despite it being the polar opposite of my thing, and the action was done well. I was very anxious for most of it and freaking out over their safety, and I liked that Logan was traumatised and needed some time to recover from events. That seemed realistic and it was good he got some counselling. The bonus scene also added a bit to it by way of an extra epilogue, and gave more of a picture of their lives after it all went down. Definitely a good read and shows the author can write all sorts of things.
April 30, 2024
****AMAZON REJECTED MY REVIEW - NOTHING POSTED IS OFFENSIVE*****
Logan MacDonald works as a juice bar barista at MARS Fitness gym. He works for co-owners Beau and Gavin and has two good friends in Everest and Sawyer. Six months ago at the best New Years Ever party at MARS Logan met a one-night-stand. But as the guy leaves his apartment he leaves his phone number for Logan and now six months later they are boyfriends. The only problem is Logan’s friends don’t know Jay.
Every time he want’s Jay to meet them something comes up. As an analyst Jay seems to always be on a business trip or stuck at the office.
Everest and Sawyer have put doubts in Logans head. Plus, they question if Jay is an imaginary boyfriend. They throw out all kinds of crazy ideas: stalker, serial killer, a married man, spy, rent boy, oh my! Poor Logan can’t help to question it all. After some serious thought, he has to admit he doesn’t even know that much about Jay.
Well, Everest and Sawyer have a plan and they drag Logan into it. Logan plants an air tag in Jays bag and they are now on the hunt. Things don’t look good when they finally race after Jay with every move he makes through hectic New York.
Logan want’s to trust and stay loyal to Jay but when he finally faces the facts he’s ready to break up with him. The only ones he can trust are his friends at MARS who take him out for a distraction from his woes. But now everyone knows he’s just a moron. On a planned date night, at a little restaurant, again Jay is late, as Logan waits outside in the cold. When Jay does show up, before he can tell Jay what’s wrong the world around him has gone chaotic.
Where is he? What happened? Has be been kidnapped? Where is Jay? Who is Jay? Is Logan ready to face the truth and even death as he becomes a target?
Linden Bell creates a little seriousness, humor and action with “Under the Radar” from the “Accidentally Undercover” series. Logan and Jay are a very steamy couple. At times I found the bedroom and physical scenes were a little overdone for me, but I know this is a draw for many readers. Jared “Jay” Sable holds true to being a tough FBI agent, while Logan is sweet and carefree making opposites attract.
Logan’s friends, Everest and Sawyer bring a barrel of humor to the story. They have no self control with keeping Logan’s situation quiet and they can’t control their wild imaginations. They even get Gavin and Beau stirred up in the excitement.
Along with Jared Sable he brings Lead FBI agent Isaac and agent partner Victoria. Of course there’s the evil Alonzo Adams, arms dealer, looking for revenge.
“Under the Radar” was a first time read for me by Linden Bell. All-in-all it was a suspenseful tale with just the right amount of humor and lot’s of heat. Watch for the other stand alone stories in the “Accidentally Undercover” series.
Logan MacDonald works as a juice bar barista at MARS Fitness gym. He works for co-owners Beau and Gavin and has two good friends in Everest and Sawyer. Six months ago at the best New Years Ever party at MARS Logan met a one-night-stand. But as the guy leaves his apartment he leaves his phone number for Logan and now six months later they are boyfriends. The only problem is Logan’s friends don’t know Jay.
Every time he want’s Jay to meet them something comes up. As an analyst Jay seems to always be on a business trip or stuck at the office.
Everest and Sawyer have put doubts in Logans head. Plus, they question if Jay is an imaginary boyfriend. They throw out all kinds of crazy ideas: stalker, serial killer, a married man, spy, rent boy, oh my! Poor Logan can’t help to question it all. After some serious thought, he has to admit he doesn’t even know that much about Jay.
Well, Everest and Sawyer have a plan and they drag Logan into it. Logan plants an air tag in Jays bag and they are now on the hunt. Things don’t look good when they finally race after Jay with every move he makes through hectic New York.
Logan want’s to trust and stay loyal to Jay but when he finally faces the facts he’s ready to break up with him. The only ones he can trust are his friends at MARS who take him out for a distraction from his woes. But now everyone knows he’s just a moron. On a planned date night, at a little restaurant, again Jay is late, as Logan waits outside in the cold. When Jay does show up, before he can tell Jay what’s wrong the world around him has gone chaotic.
Where is he? What happened? Has be been kidnapped? Where is Jay? Who is Jay? Is Logan ready to face the truth and even death as he becomes a target?
Linden Bell creates a little seriousness, humor and action with “Under the Radar” from the “Accidentally Undercover” series. Logan and Jay are a very steamy couple. At times I found the bedroom and physical scenes were a little overdone for me, but I know this is a draw for many readers. Jared “Jay” Sable holds true to being a tough FBI agent, while Logan is sweet and carefree making opposites attract.
Logan’s friends, Everest and Sawyer bring a barrel of humor to the story. They have no self control with keeping Logan’s situation quiet and they can’t control their wild imaginations. They even get Gavin and Beau stirred up in the excitement.
Along with Jared Sable he brings Lead FBI agent Isaac and agent partner Victoria. Of course there’s the evil Alonzo Adams, arms dealer, looking for revenge.
“Under the Radar” was a first time read for me by Linden Bell. All-in-all it was a suspenseful tale with just the right amount of humor and lot’s of heat. Watch for the other stand alone stories in the “Accidentally Undercover” series.
May 12, 2024
[I received an ARC for an honest review.]
Rating: 4.5 stars (9/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: FBI agent, Mars Fitness cameos, secret identity, kidnapping, 'roommates', fast burn, ambush
Review:
Under the Radar is part of a multi-author series, but it's also set in the MFU - the Mars Fitness Universe, and I was so excited to not only go back to see all of our favourite boys, but also to learn about Logan and his mysterious boyfriend that no one has met and may or may not actually be real. I love that we get to see the way these two met, and their first night of fun which snowballed quickly into a happy (but not exactly healthy) relationship. Logan doesn't really know much about Jay, but he knows his heart and that he's kind and a wonderful person. However, when a couple of the guys from Mars get him doubting what it is that Jay does, he's dragged on a bit of a stalk through the city, only to be confronted with something that he doesn't understand. Of course, Logan never really gets to confront Jay because suddenly they both fund themselves kidnapped, and all of a sudden, everything about the person Jay pretends to be is stripped away and Logan learns who and what Jay really is.
I loved the action and suspense of the story. I know that I would not have been calm in any of the situations Logan found himself in, and I love that, through it all, he's still able to find some of the light and kindness and joy. The way that both Logan and Jared went about moving forward with a relationship was a lot smarter than whatever they had going on before, and for all of the secrets, Jared is not a bad person - he just got himself stuck in a hole that he didn't have the choice to crawl out of himself as he was dragged kicking and screaming out of it. Despite any of the missed opportunities to come clean, I loved how possessive over Logan he is, and the ways he kept doing everything he could to protect and reassure and help him.
One thing I love about Linden's books is that, despite not spending a lot of time with spicy scenes, they are always so well written, and so hot, and I love a number of the different little kinks we see throughout them that I personally love to see but don't always get shown. These two burn hot, and the moments of reprieve they have, where they're not imminently in danger or too wounded to do anything, have some tender and steamy time, and I absolutely love it. The cabin scenes were amazing, and I would happily read like 3 more spicy scenes between those two, doing whatever crazy things they might do. Maybe even something more at Mars Fitness would be fun 🤭 All in all, this was a fun, action-packed, maybe a little OTT but in the best way, spicy story, and I cannot wait to see more of Logan pop up in other books. I need to go back at some point and re-read all of Linden's books to see these characters again, now that I know so many more.
Rating: 4.5 stars (9/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: FBI agent, Mars Fitness cameos, secret identity, kidnapping, 'roommates', fast burn, ambush
Review:
Under the Radar is part of a multi-author series, but it's also set in the MFU - the Mars Fitness Universe, and I was so excited to not only go back to see all of our favourite boys, but also to learn about Logan and his mysterious boyfriend that no one has met and may or may not actually be real. I love that we get to see the way these two met, and their first night of fun which snowballed quickly into a happy (but not exactly healthy) relationship. Logan doesn't really know much about Jay, but he knows his heart and that he's kind and a wonderful person. However, when a couple of the guys from Mars get him doubting what it is that Jay does, he's dragged on a bit of a stalk through the city, only to be confronted with something that he doesn't understand. Of course, Logan never really gets to confront Jay because suddenly they both fund themselves kidnapped, and all of a sudden, everything about the person Jay pretends to be is stripped away and Logan learns who and what Jay really is.
I loved the action and suspense of the story. I know that I would not have been calm in any of the situations Logan found himself in, and I love that, through it all, he's still able to find some of the light and kindness and joy. The way that both Logan and Jared went about moving forward with a relationship was a lot smarter than whatever they had going on before, and for all of the secrets, Jared is not a bad person - he just got himself stuck in a hole that he didn't have the choice to crawl out of himself as he was dragged kicking and screaming out of it. Despite any of the missed opportunities to come clean, I loved how possessive over Logan he is, and the ways he kept doing everything he could to protect and reassure and help him.
One thing I love about Linden's books is that, despite not spending a lot of time with spicy scenes, they are always so well written, and so hot, and I love a number of the different little kinks we see throughout them that I personally love to see but don't always get shown. These two burn hot, and the moments of reprieve they have, where they're not imminently in danger or too wounded to do anything, have some tender and steamy time, and I absolutely love it. The cabin scenes were amazing, and I would happily read like 3 more spicy scenes between those two, doing whatever crazy things they might do. Maybe even something more at Mars Fitness would be fun 🤭 All in all, this was a fun, action-packed, maybe a little OTT but in the best way, spicy story, and I cannot wait to see more of Logan pop up in other books. I need to go back at some point and re-read all of Linden's books to see these characters again, now that I know so many more.
May 8, 2024
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4 hearts
In the nightclub, Jared is instantly drawn towards a stunning man with green eyes; he needs something, someone, and that is Logan. What was supposed to be a one-nighter turned into more, and months later, Jared still hasn’t confessed his job or real identity. Logan knows Jay is keeping secrets, and peer pressure encourages him to find out more – but will he like the answers? Will he survive the answers?
Under The Radar is part of a series written by various authors. All can be read as standalone stories. The tale has a splendid concept, moves fast, is action-packed, and includes heat wherever the opportunity permits. It is a variation on a well-worn theme. Nevertheless, I was entertained by this punchy short novel that felt like reading an episode from an FBI TV series.
The story is told in the first person from the viewpoints of Jared and Logan. For the majority, technically, it is good. However, there were a lot of autonomous body parts, which a few years ago were considered no-no’s among editors (unless there was a pre-qualifying sentence). Maybe times have changed – hey ho. Given the book's length, scenic picture building is minimal, as most of the drama is action-based, and talking about flora and fauna would have broken the flow.
Logan is a sweet, good man with a core of steel and a circle of adorable friends that made me smile. They were the caring light relief to the serious bits. I could almost imagine them kicking the proverbial out of the bad guy just for being nasty (though this doesn’t happen). Jared is FBI and can be badass. And the couple like their dirty talk.
Under The Radar is a combination tale. It is one of knowing a person and not. Knowing their soul, but not their day-to-day life. There’s a second chance element, too. As for the drama, the odd scenario is a touch far-fetched, but desperate times mean desperate measures. Also, this is fiction, so the generally impossible becomes possible, and everything is plausible. But, one section in the aftermath dialogue gave me pause regarding the timeline vs action. A little more clarification would have been appreciated as the lack of adequate/skimmed-over explanation gave rise to either a plot hole, gross FBI incompetence, or something equally despicable, as there’s a world-class criminal out there.
Anyhoo, regardless of the blips, where I am airing on the side of leniency; I would recommend it for its action/entertainment value, and I’m glad I picked it up to read.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
In the nightclub, Jared is instantly drawn towards a stunning man with green eyes; he needs something, someone, and that is Logan. What was supposed to be a one-nighter turned into more, and months later, Jared still hasn’t confessed his job or real identity. Logan knows Jay is keeping secrets, and peer pressure encourages him to find out more – but will he like the answers? Will he survive the answers?
Under The Radar is part of a series written by various authors. All can be read as standalone stories. The tale has a splendid concept, moves fast, is action-packed, and includes heat wherever the opportunity permits. It is a variation on a well-worn theme. Nevertheless, I was entertained by this punchy short novel that felt like reading an episode from an FBI TV series.
The story is told in the first person from the viewpoints of Jared and Logan. For the majority, technically, it is good. However, there were a lot of autonomous body parts, which a few years ago were considered no-no’s among editors (unless there was a pre-qualifying sentence). Maybe times have changed – hey ho. Given the book's length, scenic picture building is minimal, as most of the drama is action-based, and talking about flora and fauna would have broken the flow.
Logan is a sweet, good man with a core of steel and a circle of adorable friends that made me smile. They were the caring light relief to the serious bits. I could almost imagine them kicking the proverbial out of the bad guy just for being nasty (though this doesn’t happen). Jared is FBI and can be badass. And the couple like their dirty talk.
Under The Radar is a combination tale. It is one of knowing a person and not. Knowing their soul, but not their day-to-day life. There’s a second chance element, too. As for the drama, the odd scenario is a touch far-fetched, but desperate times mean desperate measures. Also, this is fiction, so the generally impossible becomes possible, and everything is plausible. But, one section in the aftermath dialogue gave me pause regarding the timeline vs action. A little more clarification would have been appreciated as the lack of adequate/skimmed-over explanation gave rise to either a plot hole, gross FBI incompetence, or something equally despicable, as there’s a world-class criminal out there.
Anyhoo, regardless of the blips, where I am airing on the side of leniency; I would recommend it for its action/entertainment value, and I’m glad I picked it up to read.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
April 26, 2024
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review
Let me start by saying that this was an ARC I received unexpectedly as I had just received another from Linden Bell not too long ago so it was a very pleasant surprise! I knew nothing about the book in reading the blurb it says it is part of a series that in which I have not read any of the previous books.
Another pleasant surprise is MMC1 was none other than my boy Logan from the Mars Fitness series. I have said in reviews before I absolutely LOOOOOOVE when we get inter connectivity and revisiting characters from other books so I was instantly encouraged to enjoy this read. I actually remember laughing and yelling OMG LOGAN!!! when I realized it was him.
Logan's character is a lovable golden retriever type that always sees the best in people and doesn't really seem to ask too many questions. He is quite naive and doesn't seem to look out for himself as much as he should but thankfully he has some great friends decide to make sure that he is getting everything he deserves in a partner.
Jared did bother me a little as a lot of the conflict in the book could have been avoided by just being honest. Yes I know we wouldn't have a story otherwise but it was quite frustrating how out of control everything got when the entire situation may have been avoided with an honest chat with his boyfriend. Also lets just say what everyone is thinking, you work for the FBI not the CIA what is with all the secrecy!? That said they did have great chemistry and did try very hard to be a good partner for Logan in the end.
I do wish the book was a little longer as I would have liked to see the action scenes have more time to flesh out and develop. It did seem a little more rushed than I would have liked. I want to avoid any spoilers so that is all I will really say about that.
All in all I did enjoy the read. I loved that I got to see my Mars Fitness boys and I am certainly looking forward to my next Linden Bell read!
Happy reading
Let me start by saying that this was an ARC I received unexpectedly as I had just received another from Linden Bell not too long ago so it was a very pleasant surprise! I knew nothing about the book in reading the blurb it says it is part of a series that in which I have not read any of the previous books.
Another pleasant surprise is MMC1 was none other than my boy Logan from the Mars Fitness series. I have said in reviews before I absolutely LOOOOOOVE when we get inter connectivity and revisiting characters from other books so I was instantly encouraged to enjoy this read. I actually remember laughing and yelling OMG LOGAN!!! when I realized it was him.
Logan's character is a lovable golden retriever type that always sees the best in people and doesn't really seem to ask too many questions. He is quite naive and doesn't seem to look out for himself as much as he should but thankfully he has some great friends decide to make sure that he is getting everything he deserves in a partner.
Jared did bother me a little as a lot of the conflict in the book could have been avoided by just being honest. Yes I know we wouldn't have a story otherwise but it was quite frustrating how out of control everything got when the entire situation may have been avoided with an honest chat with his boyfriend. Also lets just say what everyone is thinking, you work for the FBI not the CIA what is with all the secrecy!? That said they did have great chemistry and did try very hard to be a good partner for Logan in the end.
I do wish the book was a little longer as I would have liked to see the action scenes have more time to flesh out and develop. It did seem a little more rushed than I would have liked. I want to avoid any spoilers so that is all I will really say about that.
All in all I did enjoy the read. I loved that I got to see my Mars Fitness boys and I am certainly looking forward to my next Linden Bell read!
Happy reading
April 26, 2024
Hold on to your hats, it’s a fast-paced whirlwind of insta-romance and intrigue!
Romantic suspense with “who are you?” and a touch of insta-lust-turned-love that worked well for me. The author captured that sensation of seeing someone and being unable to look away and wrapped it into a really fun—uh, well, imperiled fun?!—story that I could not stop reading. The romance is fast but works with the conflict because the tension is strong, with one hero not knowing the full truth of who the other is, and the plot balanced out the insta-love feel.
A man calling himself Jay goes to a club and sees, across a crowded room—cue bells and flashing lights and Hallmark lighting—a laughing joy of a man he cannot look away from. Lucky for him, Logan is looking back and takes him home…flash forward and they are hot and heavy boyfriends, dating, exclusive…life is perfect!
Or…not. Because Logan’s friends have a lot of questions about “Jay” that Logan can’t answer. And when they talk him into following Jay one morning, everything comes unglued.
I’ll say little more but don’t worry, this story is all fun and reindeer games, and the love between these two shines through dark moments and danger and comes out sparkly, if a bit dented, on the other side. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! Mind the TWs though, the story includes violence, and one character who isn’t used to it has to take extreme action to save his own life.
Dangerous secrets, an engaging cast of characters, and two appealing heroes, one of whom might not handle things the smartest at the start, one of whom falls for a sort of stranger, but it turns out when you see the heart of who someone is inside, no one’s a stranger at all and you can get through anything.
HEA, hidden identity, sunshine/trusting man, romantic suspense. Some violence. No cheating or emotional cheating or any om/ow drama/others at all. Highly recommended and a lot of fun.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Romantic suspense with “who are you?” and a touch of insta-lust-turned-love that worked well for me. The author captured that sensation of seeing someone and being unable to look away and wrapped it into a really fun—uh, well, imperiled fun?!—story that I could not stop reading. The romance is fast but works with the conflict because the tension is strong, with one hero not knowing the full truth of who the other is, and the plot balanced out the insta-love feel.
A man calling himself Jay goes to a club and sees, across a crowded room—cue bells and flashing lights and Hallmark lighting—a laughing joy of a man he cannot look away from. Lucky for him, Logan is looking back and takes him home…flash forward and they are hot and heavy boyfriends, dating, exclusive…life is perfect!
Or…not. Because Logan’s friends have a lot of questions about “Jay” that Logan can’t answer. And when they talk him into following Jay one morning, everything comes unglued.
I’ll say little more but don’t worry, this story is all fun and reindeer games, and the love between these two shines through dark moments and danger and comes out sparkly, if a bit dented, on the other side. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! Mind the TWs though, the story includes violence, and one character who isn’t used to it has to take extreme action to save his own life.
Dangerous secrets, an engaging cast of characters, and two appealing heroes, one of whom might not handle things the smartest at the start, one of whom falls for a sort of stranger, but it turns out when you see the heart of who someone is inside, no one’s a stranger at all and you can get through anything.
HEA, hidden identity, sunshine/trusting man, romantic suspense. Some violence. No cheating or emotional cheating or any om/ow drama/others at all. Highly recommended and a lot of fun.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
April 17, 2024
4,5 stars
I was a bit sceptic to read this at first when I heard about the premise, since suspense is not something I like in my romance books. But if there’s a guaranteed HEA and relatively low angst, then I can manage some suspense with my romance. And this book delivered. I knew in my head that there is a happy ending, no one important will be offed, but still there was slight suspense on how it’s all going to play out.
Our smoothie bar barista Logan has been in a relationship with his one-night-stand-turned-boyfriend for six months, Jay. Logan is happy in love and completely oblivious to a fact that he just doesn’t know his boyfriend. But does he? Jay has been an FBI agent for years but hasn’t had the best reactions to his profession from his exes, so he’s been keeping it under wraps from Logan. Logan thinks he’s an analyst. But what happens when Jay’s past catches up with him and Logan gets in the crossfire? Most of the book is about Logan realizing he doesn’t really know his boyfriend – at least on the surface level – but he does know the person he is in his heart. Who cares what your boyfriend does for work if you know that he likes musicals, drag shows, and likes to cuddle up on the couch?
I loved Logan, even if he seems like this bit himbo-y happy-go-lucky kinda guy, he does have grit, guts, and steely resolve. I think Jay was in the wrong about keeping his profession locked down but I can see how he was afraid of losing Logan. I loved these two together and I really enjoyed the book. Would’ve read it in one sitting but started it around midnight (stupid me), and I had to work in the morning, so it took half a day to finish (long lunch breaks ftw!).
Can’t wait to see what’s up next for guys at Mars Fitness!
I was a bit sceptic to read this at first when I heard about the premise, since suspense is not something I like in my romance books. But if there’s a guaranteed HEA and relatively low angst, then I can manage some suspense with my romance. And this book delivered. I knew in my head that there is a happy ending, no one important will be offed, but still there was slight suspense on how it’s all going to play out.
Our smoothie bar barista Logan has been in a relationship with his one-night-stand-turned-boyfriend for six months, Jay. Logan is happy in love and completely oblivious to a fact that he just doesn’t know his boyfriend. But does he? Jay has been an FBI agent for years but hasn’t had the best reactions to his profession from his exes, so he’s been keeping it under wraps from Logan. Logan thinks he’s an analyst. But what happens when Jay’s past catches up with him and Logan gets in the crossfire? Most of the book is about Logan realizing he doesn’t really know his boyfriend – at least on the surface level – but he does know the person he is in his heart. Who cares what your boyfriend does for work if you know that he likes musicals, drag shows, and likes to cuddle up on the couch?
I loved Logan, even if he seems like this bit himbo-y happy-go-lucky kinda guy, he does have grit, guts, and steely resolve. I think Jay was in the wrong about keeping his profession locked down but I can see how he was afraid of losing Logan. I loved these two together and I really enjoyed the book. Would’ve read it in one sitting but started it around midnight (stupid me), and I had to work in the morning, so it took half a day to finish (long lunch breaks ftw!).
Can’t wait to see what’s up next for guys at Mars Fitness!
April 28, 2024
Despite the synopsis, I wasn't expecting the story to be quite as high octane as it was. Engaging and entertaining, but definitely stressful throughout much of the book.
I'm not usually one for stories with such intense content, but Linden Bell kept me enthralled to the point I couldn't put the book down once I started.
Logan's character is such a sweet and trusting soul. It hurt to listen to him question his judgement after following Jay/Jared. But it was nice to see that their love for one another, even after only 6 months into their relationship, was able to counter that mistrust and hesitation. Logan jumped right back in line with Jared, and though dangerous, he refused to part from him. Their relationship held strong throughout the many injuries and dangerous situations they were pushed into during the story's timeframe. I would be interested if Linden were to create an extended epilogue or bonus to give the couple a bit more story to flesh out for their future. Secret FBI agent or not, Jared is a good guy, and I very much enjoyed how he and Logan came together and worked so well with one another.
Logan's friends with Mars Fitness were a fun addition, and helped show how and why Logan has such a bubbly personality. It was good that those side characters -- his found family -- were there to help Logan back up out of any leftover distress from his dangerous encounters working with the FBI.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who don't shy away from intense action and descriptions of gunshot wounds and death.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I'm not usually one for stories with such intense content, but Linden Bell kept me enthralled to the point I couldn't put the book down once I started.
Logan's character is such a sweet and trusting soul. It hurt to listen to him question his judgement after following Jay/Jared. But it was nice to see that their love for one another, even after only 6 months into their relationship, was able to counter that mistrust and hesitation. Logan jumped right back in line with Jared, and though dangerous, he refused to part from him. Their relationship held strong throughout the many injuries and dangerous situations they were pushed into during the story's timeframe. I would be interested if Linden were to create an extended epilogue or bonus to give the couple a bit more story to flesh out for their future. Secret FBI agent or not, Jared is a good guy, and I very much enjoyed how he and Logan came together and worked so well with one another.
Logan's friends with Mars Fitness were a fun addition, and helped show how and why Logan has such a bubbly personality. It was good that those side characters -- his found family -- were there to help Logan back up out of any leftover distress from his dangerous encounters working with the FBI.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who don't shy away from intense action and descriptions of gunshot wounds and death.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 2, 2024
3.5 stars
This book is part of the multi-author series Accidentally Undercover and it's set in the Mars Fitness Universe: Logan is indeed the juice bar barista at Mars Fitness gym.
During a night at a club, Logan met a handsome stranger and they had an instant connection, they go to Logan's home togheter and after 6 months they're still together, dating happily.
Jay is misterious, though: Logan has never been to his apartment, he doesn't know anything about his past, his family, his hometown. He wasn't really bothered by that, until, during New Year Eve party, when Jay doesn't show up, Sawyer and Everest keep teasing him about his "imaginary" boyfriend.
After a few days, the three of them decide to stalk Jay, trying to find something more about him.
As a result, both Jay and Logan will be kidnapped by a big drug criminal. Jay is, as a matter of fact, a FBI agent.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I didn't like Jared's explanation about why he kept the secret for so long, especially because his partner, Victoria, explained that there wasn't a real necessity to do so.
And I didn't like that, after the kidnapping, Logan immediately forgave Jared: it was too easy and too soon, Jared didn't really do anything to regain Logan's trust.
I loved how the author described Logan's confused emotions during the captivity, they were all very well written. I also liked how she described Logan's anguish after the shooting.
Lastly I loved the fact that despite of all the missing pieces, Logan always knew Jared was the one for him.
I received an ARC of this book from the authors and this is my honest review.
This book is part of the multi-author series Accidentally Undercover and it's set in the Mars Fitness Universe: Logan is indeed the juice bar barista at Mars Fitness gym.
During a night at a club, Logan met a handsome stranger and they had an instant connection, they go to Logan's home togheter and after 6 months they're still together, dating happily.
Jay is misterious, though: Logan has never been to his apartment, he doesn't know anything about his past, his family, his hometown. He wasn't really bothered by that, until, during New Year Eve party, when Jay doesn't show up, Sawyer and Everest keep teasing him about his "imaginary" boyfriend.
After a few days, the three of them decide to stalk Jay, trying to find something more about him.
As a result, both Jay and Logan will be kidnapped by a big drug criminal. Jay is, as a matter of fact, a FBI agent.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I didn't like Jared's explanation about why he kept the secret for so long, especially because his partner, Victoria, explained that there wasn't a real necessity to do so.
And I didn't like that, after the kidnapping, Logan immediately forgave Jared: it was too easy and too soon, Jared didn't really do anything to regain Logan's trust.
I loved how the author described Logan's confused emotions during the captivity, they were all very well written. I also liked how she described Logan's anguish after the shooting.
Lastly I loved the fact that despite of all the missing pieces, Logan always knew Jared was the one for him.
I received an ARC of this book from the authors and this is my honest review.
April 27, 2024
**4.5**
I really enjoyed reading this. I found it to have more action than I was expecting and be quite intense in places.
Logan really gets thrown in the deep end of Jared's life that he doesn't know anything about and it's so much more than just a shock to the system. I really felt for him when secrets are revealed and under some of the most unpleasant and intense circumstances but his faith in Jared's true character is stronger than the (justified) anger at the deceit. Jared comes to realise, slightly too late how things should have been handled when it came to his relationship with Logan and his job but Logan shows true grit as Jared does what he does best, fights bad guys and tries to keep everyone safe.
I like that it links to Linden's Mars Fitness series whilst standing alone within this multi author series. Logan has been deserving of his own HEA with his sunshine personality and readers of the Mars Fitness series will have heard a hint of a boyfriend that never appears and now we know why. The guys from Mars Fitness make a few appearances and my favourite is when they all show up with no explanation as to what's going on but they are just showing their love and support for their friend.
I thought this was an entertaining and fast paced story, though the relationship setup in the beginning could have gone into a bit more detail as that felt a little rushed. I will be looking into the rest of the Accidentally Undercover series after reading this.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I really enjoyed reading this. I found it to have more action than I was expecting and be quite intense in places.
Logan really gets thrown in the deep end of Jared's life that he doesn't know anything about and it's so much more than just a shock to the system. I really felt for him when secrets are revealed and under some of the most unpleasant and intense circumstances but his faith in Jared's true character is stronger than the (justified) anger at the deceit. Jared comes to realise, slightly too late how things should have been handled when it came to his relationship with Logan and his job but Logan shows true grit as Jared does what he does best, fights bad guys and tries to keep everyone safe.
I like that it links to Linden's Mars Fitness series whilst standing alone within this multi author series. Logan has been deserving of his own HEA with his sunshine personality and readers of the Mars Fitness series will have heard a hint of a boyfriend that never appears and now we know why. The guys from Mars Fitness make a few appearances and my favourite is when they all show up with no explanation as to what's going on but they are just showing their love and support for their friend.
I thought this was an entertaining and fast paced story, though the relationship setup in the beginning could have gone into a bit more detail as that felt a little rushed. I will be looking into the rest of the Accidentally Undercover series after reading this.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
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