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Hard Game

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In the seedy underbelly of the city, where danger lurks around every corner, a forbidden love blossoms amidst a backdrop of crime and betrayal. Detective Lauren Diess, dedicated to upholding justice, finds herself entangled with Maddox Moreno, a charismatic but enigmatic figure with ties to a dangerous trafficking gang.

Lauren has her own agenda for becoming a detective: finding her missing sister, and Maddox may just know something about that...If only he could convince Lauren to trust him.

But the trafficking gang is back, and bodies are piling up. They're running out of time to nail the gang, but then the unthinkable happens, and their world is thrown into chaos...

246 pages, Unknown Binding

First published March 7, 2024

19 people are currently reading
150 people want to read

About the author

Linzvonc

53 books516 followers
Linzvonc is a bestselling author with readers all over the globe. She loves nothing more than snuggling up with her fur babies and creating characters just for her readers. She studied an English Literature and Creative Writing degree level before becoming a writer as her full-time job. She believes there is no real way to write-and to write what you would like to read. If we all tried to do what others do, there wouldn't ever be room for change, and there must always be room for that.

Join Linzvonc's Ream to access new, ongoing works before they are published anywhere else, along with exciting secret announcements!

https://reamstories.com/page/ld4o7ywqjj

Alternatively, join the facebook group especially for Linz's readers: https://tinyurl.com/2b9cm4rr

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5 stars
60 (45%)
4 stars
47 (35%)
3 stars
15 (11%)
2 stars
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
Profile Image for Megan.
323 reviews
October 3, 2024
3.25
I wished this book was longer 😭
Profile Image for Lisa.
811 reviews9 followers
February 11, 2024
This book isn’t like Linzvonc’s usual books BUT OMG it is still amazing!!!!!

Detective Lauren Diess has a passion for taking down the trafficking ring that’s targeting woman of all ages in Lockwood during to personal reasons

Maddox, a ‘bad’ guy wants the same thing as Diess, but can they get the job done without really knowing about each other???

And then there’s the bent coppers

This book is so action packed and needs to be read!!!
Profile Image for Shhh ... I’m Reading.
89 reviews27 followers
February 12, 2024
Good Game by Linzvonc is a thrilling and suspenseful read, interwoven with mystery and spiced with intense scenes. Delving into the dark world of human trafficking, the main character, Detective Lauren, is on a mission to bring down the Lockwood Traffickers, fueled by the disappearance of her sister believed to be their victim. When vigilante Maddox enters the picture, Lauren finds herself torn between trust and suspicion. The gripping storyline and well-developed characters propel the plot to unexpected heights, keeping me captivated until the very end!
Another 5⭐️ Linzvonc!
Profile Image for Stacy.
177 reviews5 followers
December 29, 2025
Brave detective Lauren is looking for her missing sister. Lauren is soon entangled with a mystery man known as Maddox who has ties to a dangerous trafficking gang.
Forbidden love, rape, trafficking and violence.
Relatively short dark romance thriller with heavy TW's.
I've read books by Linzvonc before and really enjoyed them and this did not disappoint.
Profile Image for thebeespot72.
1,747 reviews185 followers
June 2, 2024
I’ve been a long-time fan of Linzvonc’s writing, from her Forbidden Dad’s Best Friend stories to her Dark High School Bully Romances and even Dark Erotic BDSM. I’ve read them and thoroughly enjoyed them. The number of books she has written shows her diverse writing styles through various genres and tropes. Not many authors can do this well—though they try.

“Hard Game” undoubtedly shows Linzvonc’s talent for writing different themes, such as romantic suspense. Lauren is a Detective who is trying to find her missing sister. In doing so, she runs into Maddox, who is tied to a s3x tr4fficking gang. However, he may have answers to where Lauren’s sister is.

“Hard Game” has a strong FMC, which I love. The story is fast-paced. Maddox is a morally grey character with whom readers will fall in love. Yes, Maddox is deemed as the “bad guy,” but just wait. The two characters vibed so well. “Hard Game” will keep you on the edge of your seat and gripping your Kindle til the end. The theme is dark, and readers should expect the story to be different from Linzvonc’s Dad’s Best Friend story—read the TW/CWs.
96 reviews7 followers
March 9, 2024
This book had me gasping from beginning to end! Standalone dark grey romantic suspense. Fast-paced, fairly quick and easy read, despite the 250+ page count, because you’ll want to read it straight through. As always, check your trigger warnings if you need to. There are some triggers in here, but the depictions aren’t as severe as some darker novels. Still, check them if you need to.
Lauren Deiss is a straight-laced detective who is resting to take down a s3x tr@ffick!ng ring. Her sister has been missing for a long time, but Lauren refuses to give up hope. Her sister’s disappearance is why Lauren is a detective. She meets the morally-grey Maddox Moreno, who has ties to the same ring and has his own brand of justice.
I am not kidding when I say that this book had me gasping! Full of action, suspense, mystery, some spice. I was guessing and gasping right until the end! I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down! Seriously. If you like books with suspense that will keep you guessing and gasping, then you need this one!
Profile Image for Rose Helg.
2,902 reviews27 followers
March 8, 2024
This was the first time I read , her book. This book was Awesome. I 💓💓💓 it. Please read, the triggers warning, first, Please!! 💓 Lauren and Maddox. This book had me hook, from the being to the end. I definitely, didn't want to put it down. I pick up this book, because of the blub, cover and I never read her book. I was Definitely, was not Disappointed, in this book.
This books has So much, danger, forbidden Love, crime and betrayal, justice, traffickin ring,gang, missing sister, trust, bodies pulling up, suspense, great story, mystery, great plot, some spice, twists, detective, suspenseful, entertaing, action, mystrey, laughing and a little of everything.
I will definitely, put this on my reread list. 💓💓💓 it. Can't Wait, for the next book.
Profile Image for L.R. Douglas.
Author 21 books60 followers
May 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this dark and thrilling story; my only real gripe is that it felt a little rushed. There are some heavy on page triggers, so please bear that in mind. It's a really gritty and well-developed plot. You end up questioning the morality of choices made across the many twists and turns.

It's less of a romance really; the romantic element does feel rather superfluous to the adventure and I didn't wholly resonate with the connection between the two main characters. It didn't detract from an excellent story though!
Profile Image for tattooedbooknerdgirl35 (Amanda Lynn).
551 reviews19 followers
February 26, 2024
Linzvonc did it again, Hard Game is a really good dark read. I enjoyed this book the characters Lauren, Maddox, Tassa and Elijah their stories just make me wanna read more. I hope the other characters get their own books.

I have to say this book has triggers so definitely look them up before reading. This book is definitely well written and will keep you on the edge of your seat til the last page. I have to say Maddox is my favorite character with his just do it attitude and how deeply he feels. I do feel for Lauren too and the rest. This story sucked me in and I'm glad I was able to ARC read this awesome book. Definitely go check this story out.
Profile Image for Justine.
79 reviews8 followers
March 4, 2024
Maddox is everyone’s favorite bad boy. Is he a bad guy or a good guy in disguise? It doesn’t matter to me, vigilante or not that boy is hot hot hot! Detective Diess is your classic overworked under appreciated member of the force. She is a kick a** MFC that every girl wants to be when they grow up or if they dont they should because she is amazing. She is smart and witty and not afraid to stand up for herself. Linzvonc gave some really delicious scenes in this book. It was a great read with enough of a story and enough of the spice to keep me interested and entertained!
Profile Image for Shannon Devine.
53 reviews627 followers
February 21, 2024
I LOVED this book! I haven’t read a good crime/thriller book in a while and this book ticked all the boxes for me (while still giving me some romance).

It was fast paced and still kept me guessing, i couldn’t put it down. I loved the storyline and the fact that she also had personal ties to the case as her sister is missing. 10/10 for me.

(Also where can i find a Maddox?)
Profile Image for Donna.
1,657 reviews
February 10, 2024
DRC from BookSirens and Linzvonc
Fast-paced mystery/detective story. Detective Lauren Diess is used to seeing dead bodies, used to danger, and used to betrayal from those she loves. Her ex being one. Her sister went missing years ago and she is still looking for her. Hoping to find her alive, but knows it is not probable. When she encounters a shady figure, Maddox, she is drawn into more seedy underground crime than she is comfortable with. Chasing a lead in a human trafficking ring, things get very complex and ends with a final betrayal. Will Lauren be able to get out alive without losing her sense of justice?
Profile Image for XenyMarie.
604 reviews15 followers
February 22, 2024
I honestly did not know what to expect from this book, but what I didn't expect was to be laughing so much throughout the whole thing.

This book tells the story of Lauren, a detective who while investigating a trafficking ring and trying to get to the bottom of the disappearance of her sister, crosses paths with Maddox, a morally gray man who has his own bone to pick with the same trafficking ring.

The story had me hooked from beginning to end, and I did not want to put it down. To the point where I considered calling in sick to work so I could keep reading. I loved the way that Linz put my detective skills to the test and how, even though the story touches a lot of dark themes, she managed to keep it lighthearted and fun.

Overall, this was a really good read with some series Mindf*ck Series vibes. So if you've read and loved that one, make sure to give this book a try.

Quote: “When we’re out of here, I’m going to fill you with babies and watch you mow the lawn. You’ll never work again.”
Profile Image for Hend.
303 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2024
Oh my god , this is completely a different read , it's thriller and action with romance involved 😍😍it is like watching CSI series😁😁😁 it's written so good , full of details that allow you to imagine seeing everything that's happening while reading , it's so raw and full of emotions and always kept me on my toes 🙈🙈🙈
It's full of surprises and twists that left my jaw dropping a few times while reading🙈🙈
The book discuss a tough subject which is human trafficking , corruption and etc...
The features a strong FMC Lauren who is a detective , she is smart, strong and she wants to achieve justice using the law ❤️❤️
We have our MMC Maddox who is not a cop🙈🙈😁😁and he seeks vigilante justice.
He is handsome and appears to be Rich man , protective and obsessed with Lauren 😍😍, he has secrets which will unfold during the book and we will know more about his past 😁😁
They will cross passes while trying to achieve justice , and the story will begin 😍😍😍 the sexual tension between them is so high and the banter is so way too good 😁😁😍😍
The way he is calling her Detective is so lovely 🙈🙈😍😍
Their first meeting was awesome , it put a smile on my face , Maddox 🥰🥰🥰

Loved the friendship and how it exists in the book , we have Tessa Maddox best friend who is always their for him, they trust each other and always their for each other .
Also we see Elijah who is Lauren's partner , he is like a brother to her , he care about her and he is considered her comfort zone he has her back all the time , the dynamic between them is great , they know each other so well , loved their brainstorming about the cases and how they work together 😁😁I love his loyalty to her and her concern for him 🥰🥰🥰
They can make a great team the four of them 😍😍😁😁
Profile Image for Darcy.
2,158 reviews24 followers
February 18, 2024
Oh man this book is good. It is jammed packed with action, drama, and suspense. It has darker underbellies throughout it as we journey alongside Detective Diess (Lauren). Once I started the story I couldn’t put it down. I just had to find out what happens. The darkness that lurks in the city has Diess and her partner Elijah scrambling to solve the case and bring justice to the ones that are hurt. It has so many twists and turns throughout it. You will think one thing only to be turned around by something else. Then there is the mysterious Maddox and his friend Tassa. They are definitely another mystery in themselves. I absolutely loved this story and the writing is stunning. The descriptions are vivid and completely adds to the mystery and intrigue of the story. This story is absolutely a must read and it doesn’t disappoint. I absolutely thank Linznoc for such a stunning story that took me on an amazing journey.
Profile Image for Kamila Mykhailiuk.
1,449 reviews12 followers
March 7, 2024
Wow! I loved this book! This story doesn’t focuses on smut, like so many others. It actually focuses on the plot.

Detective Lauren Diess is a very strong woman. Maddox Moreno is a very interesting and intense man. I loved their chemistry and banter.

This book made me feel a lot of emotions, all of them good. It has likable characters and beautifully written, and it’s easy to read. The plot is suspenseful and addictive. It has a dark setting.

This book would be for someone who is in the mood for something dark and emotional and not focused on smut. You will not regret it!

Trigger warnings:
• S*x/Human Trafficking
• Sexual Ab*se
• Vi*lence Against Women
• R*pe
• T*rture
• K*dnapping
• Corruption
34 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2024
Linzvonc has literally nailed this story , it’s a hard hitting book which has a lot of triggers in it, including human trafficking, violence and rape then this book isn’t for you.

This a dark book but I absolutely loved the story so much going on so much detail on the whole case that detective Lauren diess is trying to crack the Lockwood gang and bring them down for trafficking and killing women. Then she meets him Maddox and boy their chemistry is off the charts that you can’t help falling in love with him but Lauren is in two minds could he really be trying to help her solve this case or is he a bad guy??

This book is amazing and you will not be disappointed in it
Profile Image for angelictaleslibrary.
541 reviews12 followers
April 12, 2024
wow wow wow

This was absolutely incredible, it’s was gripping, fast paced, it had me on the edge of my seat.
I finished this book in just over 2 hours. Linzvonc wow you are incredible, wish I found your books sooner, this is my second book from this author, and it didn’t disappoint, I can’t wait to read more…
I loved this book, the MC’s are incredible! I love Maddox so much.
This is a dark book so definitely check the trigger warnings.. can’t recommend this book enough. Easily 5⭐️ id give it a lot more if I could..♥️
1,157 reviews23 followers
April 22, 2024
Dark, Emotional Read



This story had it all -  intrigue, mystery, amazing characters and and enthralling storyline. Maddox is a vigilante, and Lauren is a cop. Their paths cross on a mutual mission, and sparks are ignited. I loved how the story unfolded. It’s a dark path, so please heed the trigger warnings. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and I loved every minute of this read! This is a one-click author for me, and I know she will be that for you.
Profile Image for Lauren Rayton.
113 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2024
Wow
This book was so good I literally couldn’t put it down it’s full of twist and turns
The characters were amazing
Detective lauren Diess
Maddox monroe
Tessa
Each have their own reasons why they are chasing down these deprived men
Throw in a bit of romance between detective Lauren and Maddox
I definitely recommend reading this was a 5 ⭐️ read for me
This book has some major trigger warning so definitely check them before reading
Profile Image for Robyn Tetreault.
86 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2024
Amazing

It was darker then I expected but I loved it. Lauren goes through so much and just wants justice for her sister, which thankfully she ends up getting in the end. Lauren is a hard headed, strong FMC who won’t take anyones shit.

Maddox is the morally grey MMC we all love with a great redemption story.

Double check trigger warnings.
Profile Image for Spicy BookNook Reviews.
347 reviews58 followers
February 16, 2024
Wow! Like literally that's all my brain can think of to say about this one!

This book was mix between hunt me darling, Mindf*ck, and the show Lucifer. Now don't come at me when things don't totally align between all three of these, but those are the vibes I felt with this book.

I was glued right from the start. The story was absolutely incredible and twisty and left me on the edge of my seat chapter after chapter.

Detective Diess is on the prowl to shut down a trafficking ring when she comes across Maddox, who she truly believes is part of said ring, but what she unfolds is CRAZY!

If you're in the mood for an incredible journey of a Dectective on the hunt, be sure to read this one! You will not be disappointed.
6,486 reviews22 followers
March 7, 2024
Thrilling and suspenseful this crime drama is a fantastic read. It is unlike Linzvonc's previous works I have read but it is just a good. It is filled with mystery, intrigue, action and had me hooked. It is a darker read as we follow Lauren has she tries to find her missing sister. This was an amazing read
Profile Image for Kristina Marquardt.
211 reviews12 followers
April 5, 2024
This was a fantastic book. The main characters had depth.  The plot was written well and kept me gripping the pages with anticipation. Heavy tension, nonstop suspense, very dark and spicy!  I absolutely loved it. I was turning the pages into the early morning.  Highly recommended.  Please read trigger warnings.  
Profile Image for kait (kaitjaycreads).
490 reviews11 followers
March 7, 2024
A thrilling detective on the hunt story with romantic elements to it. This was packed with action and drama.
A completely different way to read Linzvonc. I enjoyed this one. It gripped you from about page 100 and on.
Profile Image for  Jackie.
584 reviews8 followers
February 18, 2024
I loved this book, the story is very dark but you can’t help falling in love with Lauren & Maddox. They are complete opposites but are drawn to each other and can’t deny their chemistry, when they do get together they explode. Great read but please check TWs as the story deals with dark themes.
Profile Image for Dena Roberts.
38 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2024
This book was amazing. Not like Linzvonc’s other writing. So good thou. Taking down the sex trafficking from Lockwood. The suspense was definitely there.
Profile Image for Beth Johnson.
186 reviews2 followers
February 24, 2024
A great read, not the usual book from Linzvonc but still amazing.

The is murder, mystery and a few blood splatters through out. But really who doesn’t love a book with this!

Do check your triggers but each situation is handled well and does not go too in-depth.

The only downside was I wanted to find out what happens next.
Profile Image for Kearstin Ellis.
576 reviews27 followers
February 22, 2024
I read this as an ARC

I took a full page of notes..

It started off as a slow burn, then from page 100 on I didn’t want to put it down.

The characters were so well written and the story had so many twists that it kept me intrigued.

If you like murder and romance this is for you
36 reviews
March 7, 2024
First time reader of Linzvonc and I really enjoyed her writing. This novel is fast paced, well constructed and full of adrenaline while keeping the slow burn romance going strong. Absolutely worth the effort and I cannot wait to read more from this author!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews

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