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K-9 Rescue #1
Irresistible Force
When adrenaline runs high, so does the force of desire…
For Shay Appleton, it’s love at first sight when a gorgeous stray dog is brought into the animal shelter where she works. She just knows he’ll make a terrific watch dog—and with an abusive ex who won’t let go, she needs all the protection she can get. But Shay never suspected that her new pet is actually a trained police K-9 named Bogart—until Bogart’s even more gorgeous, human partner shows up on her doorstep.
Officer James Cannon is one tall, strong alpha male who’s convinced that Shay stole his dog. But once he gets closer to the suspect, he realizes that this stubborn, independent woman not only needs a guard dog, she needs James as well. It seems that someone from her past is stalking her, and threatening her life. When danger meets desire, will James risk his career and his best friend…to protect the woman who’s stolen his heart?
For Shay Appleton, it’s love at first sight when a gorgeous stray dog is brought into the animal shelter where she works. She just knows he’ll make a terrific watch dog—and with an abusive ex who won’t let go, she needs all the protection she can get. But Shay never suspected that her new pet is actually a trained police K-9 named Bogart—until Bogart’s even more gorgeous, human partner shows up on her doorstep.
Officer James Cannon is one tall, strong alpha male who’s convinced that Shay stole his dog. But once he gets closer to the suspect, he realizes that this stubborn, independent woman not only needs a guard dog, she needs James as well. It seems that someone from her past is stalking her, and threatening her life. When danger meets desire, will James risk his career and his best friend…to protect the woman who’s stolen his heart?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2014
332 people are currently reading
1701 people want to read
About the author
D.D. Ayres
9 books328 followersD. D. Ayres is the author of the K-9 Rescue series which includes Primal Force and Force of Attraction. She loves men in uniforms and dogs, making the K-9 Rescue series with St. Martin's Press a dream come true. She currently lives in Texas where she's at work on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 295 reviews
November 28, 2018
James a K-9 officer is searching for his stolen partner, Bogart. It has been a month and he has finally narrowed in on his location. He witnesses the prime suspect playing fetch with his partner in front of a cabin. He hardly pays attention to the man in the woods dressed in camp and carrying a riffle. ( oh really ?) When he confronts the prime suspect a skittish woman with serious denial issues. She will not admit that the dog she adopted a month ago is his dog no matter how much the dog listens to him. Somehow James gets dragged into her mess of a life after a one night stand and thrown out of the house after glow drives him (in my opinion) insane.
I didn’t like the story, I loved the dog, I semi-enjoyed the twisted humans reeking havoc is some very unconventional ways, minus the sick cat toss (OMg!) I did not like the main character Shay. She ruined this story for me.
Shay, the victim. Honestly, what is up with this chick ? She has a traumatic past, a sealed juvenile record, a wacko ex, and no ability to speak up. I get it she has had some things happen, but I don’t get her silence. She seems to have this unwavering need to stick her head in the sand and click her heels to make things go away. Things like, harassing calls, sexual harassment, rape, keyed car, stalking, shadows lurking, and a dead cat ! Her handling of the cat, I was cheering for the neighbor to club her upside the head and knock some sense into her. Then there is the wam-bam I want sex now, (flash) get the heck out, method of mating. Whiplash girl ! I thought she was three shades of crazy, with her "that’s my dog", to her sticking her head in the sand, after her past ?!?! There was one other massively stupid thing in the many she did, she walks off with Mr. Crazy into a room secluded from everyone, just as dumb as a girl could be. (dee dee dum dee) Yes, I hated this character, she played the victim card, put others in danger with her idiocy, treated people like trash and... Grrrr, enough I hope to never meet her again.
James, the wonder cop and his partner Bogart. Bogart was the true main character of the story. He was all teeth and tail, he didn’t put up with wishy washy treatment. James, he seemed to like being treated like a throw out man, he came back over and over.
I can not continue this series. It was not what I like to read at all.
** After a couple days of thinking. This story is sticking like gum on my shoe. I'm getting more questions and more head shaking. Like what the cat thrown under the tire had to do with the story ? It was disgusting, and what was the purpose of it happening ? Did I miss something it seemed to be this almost random weird horrible thing without explanation, or the bad guy going mwahahahha !
I didn’t like the story, I loved the dog, I semi-enjoyed the twisted humans reeking havoc is some very unconventional ways, minus the sick cat toss (OMg!) I did not like the main character Shay. She ruined this story for me.
Shay, the victim. Honestly, what is up with this chick ? She has a traumatic past, a sealed juvenile record, a wacko ex, and no ability to speak up. I get it she has had some things happen, but I don’t get her silence. She seems to have this unwavering need to stick her head in the sand and click her heels to make things go away. Things like, harassing calls, sexual harassment, rape, keyed car, stalking, shadows lurking, and a dead cat ! Her handling of the cat, I was cheering for the neighbor to club her upside the head and knock some sense into her. Then there is the wam-bam I want sex now, (flash) get the heck out, method of mating. Whiplash girl ! I thought she was three shades of crazy, with her "that’s my dog", to her sticking her head in the sand, after her past ?!?! There was one other massively stupid thing in the many she did, she walks off with Mr. Crazy into a room secluded from everyone, just as dumb as a girl could be. (dee dee dum dee) Yes, I hated this character, she played the victim card, put others in danger with her idiocy, treated people like trash and... Grrrr, enough I hope to never meet her again.
James, the wonder cop and his partner Bogart. Bogart was the true main character of the story. He was all teeth and tail, he didn’t put up with wishy washy treatment. James, he seemed to like being treated like a throw out man, he came back over and over.
I can not continue this series. It was not what I like to read at all.
** After a couple days of thinking. This story is sticking like gum on my shoe. I'm getting more questions and more head shaking. Like what the cat thrown under the tire had to do with the story ? It was disgusting, and what was the purpose of it happening ? Did I miss something it seemed to be this almost random weird horrible thing without explanation, or the bad guy going mwahahahha !
November 24, 2014
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
I'm not sure who I liked more...James or his K-9 partner, Bogart. No matter as they both kept me in the story.
A bit of background
It starts right off at full speed when Officer James Cannon tracks his "stolen" partner near an isolated cabin in the woods of North Carolina. Bogart's with Shay Appleton and the showdown between the three isn't pretty.
Once they figure out each other's situation, James gets Bogart back but not before he realizes that Shay seemed to need him for more than companionship. His instincts have him checking on her before returning home and it was just in time.
What works, what doesn't
The suspense level is high as there are two ex's behaving VERY badly. James is truly an alpha male and tries to help Shay but she's a woman who's prefers to handle herself. While admirable it got in the way of the romance as she crosses the line into unreasonable. I enjoyed the story and the excitement but had a tough time understanding or "getting" Shay. When the romance was working, it worked well. When it wasn't, it leapt off the cliff.
The K-9
Bogart? The real hero. One of the major highlights was learning a lot about K-9 training and the importance of the relationship with the dog's handler/partner. This dog was special and literally saves the day. It's worth reading this story just for this aspect, which was why I selected the series.
The bottom line
I loved the excitement of the story, along with the K-9 component. Though the romance was a challenge because of Shay's erratic, sometimes bizarre behavior, I liked her. I definitely plan to continue the series. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
I'm not sure who I liked more...James or his K-9 partner, Bogart. No matter as they both kept me in the story.
A bit of background
It starts right off at full speed when Officer James Cannon tracks his "stolen" partner near an isolated cabin in the woods of North Carolina. Bogart's with Shay Appleton and the showdown between the three isn't pretty.
Once they figure out each other's situation, James gets Bogart back but not before he realizes that Shay seemed to need him for more than companionship. His instincts have him checking on her before returning home and it was just in time.
What works, what doesn't
The suspense level is high as there are two ex's behaving VERY badly. James is truly an alpha male and tries to help Shay but she's a woman who's prefers to handle herself. While admirable it got in the way of the romance as she crosses the line into unreasonable. I enjoyed the story and the excitement but had a tough time understanding or "getting" Shay. When the romance was working, it worked well. When it wasn't, it leapt off the cliff.
The K-9
Bogart? The real hero. One of the major highlights was learning a lot about K-9 training and the importance of the relationship with the dog's handler/partner. This dog was special and literally saves the day. It's worth reading this story just for this aspect, which was why I selected the series.
The bottom line
I loved the excitement of the story, along with the K-9 component. Though the romance was a challenge because of Shay's erratic, sometimes bizarre behavior, I liked her. I definitely plan to continue the series. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
July 15, 2014
Irresistible Force is the first book in the romantic suspense K-9 Rescue series by D.D Ayres and is told through the dual POV of both characters. There was a novella (0.5) released before this book, Necessary Force, but I didn’t read it and don’t feel like I missed out on anything. Both stories can be considered stand-alone books. The second book in the series, Force of Attraction, is expected to be released in the Spring of 2015.
A misunderstanding is what brings the two main characters in this story together. James thinks his K-9 partner Bogart has been dognapped. Shay, thinks she’s rescued a dog that was going to be put down. What starts as a mis-understanding turns into something quite different when James realizes that Shay may need his help, even when she doesn’t want it…
I loved the premise of Irresistible Force. As a dog lover, the idea of a K-9 dog bringing together his sexy handler and a damsel in distress totally worked for me. The writing was good and I really liked several aspects of the story. I thought James was a likable, capable hero. I enjoyed reading about how the dogs and officers are trained and the close relationship needed between the handlers and their canine partners. While I love a great damsel in distress story, at times it just felt like there was too much going on with this story. Shay had a mysterious past that was frequently alluded to. There was a stalker, abusive ex-boyfriend. There was a possible jilted, stalker ex-girlfriend. She was followed, there were phone-calls, her car was messed with, etc. It was a little overkill for me.
Overall, the story would have benefited from more focus on the relationship/romance between James and Shay and a little less interference or distraction from all the bad things going on. It was just too much. When things were finally explained, I was ready to skim over the break-down of who was responsible for what and just see how everything was resolved. I still liked the story but I didn't love it. I think this series has potential and I’m leaving the door open for the author and series to develop more. I would read a second book, just to see how the next K9 inspires love! 3.5 "DOG LOVING" STARS!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
November 13, 2016
Yeah. Nope.
Shay adopts a dog from the shelter. James's police dog has been stolen. He finds his dog and believes Shay is the one who stole him. Shay has a stalker. James steps in (and of course saves the day).
This didn't work for me. I didn't like Shay. I thought she was TSTL. "She was told to ignore the calls and delete the messages unread." Um, no. Not if you want to build up evidence. If someone's harassing you, you DON'T DELETE SHIT. Yes, to ignoring and not responding, but to delete messages? No!! "She was an idiot to have left the CITY for an off-season CABIN IN THE WOODS." Let me think....yes, you are an idiot!
I also didn't like James. When he confronted Shay, I didn't like or appreciate how he acted. He abused his power. He didn't introduce himself right away. Jackass. "She was just one of those dumb THINGS men sometimes succumb to when they were following their dicks." Yeah, I get your ex was a shallow bitch, but to call her a thing?!
I was just annoyed and I hate-read this fucker to the end (and I rarely do that- it usually goes to the DNF pile). I would like to say I ended up liking both Shay and James. Nope. From not pressing charges (to your rapist/stalker) to sexual thoughts/innuendos at inappropriate moments, this didn't work for me. At all.
Then there was the cat. And the wrong type of dog on the cover. Bogart/Prince was not a German Shepherd!
Shay adopts a dog from the shelter. James's police dog has been stolen. He finds his dog and believes Shay is the one who stole him. Shay has a stalker. James steps in (and of course saves the day).
This didn't work for me. I didn't like Shay. I thought she was TSTL. "She was told to ignore the calls and delete the messages unread." Um, no. Not if you want to build up evidence. If someone's harassing you, you DON'T DELETE SHIT. Yes, to ignoring and not responding, but to delete messages? No!! "She was an idiot to have left the CITY for an off-season CABIN IN THE WOODS." Let me think....yes, you are an idiot!
I also didn't like James. When he confronted Shay, I didn't like or appreciate how he acted. He abused his power. He didn't introduce himself right away. Jackass. "She was just one of those dumb THINGS men sometimes succumb to when they were following their dicks." Yeah, I get your ex was a shallow bitch, but to call her a thing?!
I was just annoyed and I hate-read this fucker to the end (and I rarely do that- it usually goes to the DNF pile). I would like to say I ended up liking both Shay and James. Nope. From not pressing charges (to your rapist/stalker) to sexual thoughts/innuendos at inappropriate moments, this didn't work for me. At all.
Then there was the cat. And the wrong type of dog on the cover. Bogart/Prince was not a German Shepherd!
February 12, 2019
The older I get, the more of an a** I am with regards to my rating scale.
I don't know, peeps, this wasn't very good. It was ALL over the place. ALL. OVER. THE PLACE.
I did not connect to the story or the characters in any way and even skimmed from 60-75%. Hunkered down for the last 10% (as the book ended at 85% - not at 100%) and felt blah. Nothing.
I will give credit where credit is due - Ayres did write a book after all, but I don't think the follow through on any one theme (assault, cheating, death threats, abuse - of all kinds, the police...I could go on - was very well developed because there was too much focus on too many themes to really tie everything together. It bored me, and I lost interest.
Not to say I wont give another book in the series a go, but Irresistible Force book 1 just didn't gel with me.
2 Stars because I liked Bogart, the Police Dog :)
Woof Woof
I don't know, peeps, this wasn't very good. It was ALL over the place. ALL. OVER. THE PLACE.
I did not connect to the story or the characters in any way and even skimmed from 60-75%. Hunkered down for the last 10% (as the book ended at 85% - not at 100%) and felt blah. Nothing.
I will give credit where credit is due - Ayres did write a book after all, but I don't think the follow through on any one theme (assault, cheating, death threats, abuse - of all kinds, the police...I could go on - was very well developed because there was too much focus on too many themes to really tie everything together. It bored me, and I lost interest.
Not to say I wont give another book in the series a go, but Irresistible Force book 1 just didn't gel with me.
2 Stars because I liked Bogart, the Police Dog :)
Woof Woof
March 6, 2016
This was not my cup of tea - too moody, wordy and all in all lacking any sense of romance. The main characters were not cliched for the most part, nor were they underdeveloped or unlikable, but the plot had some big holes and some irritating tropes - mainly the jealous, obsessive, unreasonable, all bad exes. I don't know if I would have finished it if it wasn't for a challenge, given from Ezi. I'll try something else from this author down the road, but I'll carefully read the reviews beforehand.
November 23, 2014
This book had all the makings of a great romantic suspense. Hot cover, sexy man in uniform and interesting blurb with a stolen police dog. Unfortunately I couldn't warm to the heroine. She was a victim as a child, but she was still playing the victim card as an adult. One minute she is all over the hero and the next she is giving him a split lip. I also found her inability to stick up for herself annoying to the extreme. Fortunately I liked the suspense plot so that kept me reading until the end. This was my first book by DDA and I found the dialogue a little unnatural and segues within a scene a bit clumsy. I wondered if it was self published, but I see it isn't. I don't think this series is for me; while I didn't hate it, I won't be recommending it to friends.
October 14, 2024
Irresistible Force swept me into danger and romance.
James is looking for his missing partner, a K-9 named Bogart, and he runs cross Shay. These two have a little exchange and soon he’s drawn into her life and danger.
I LOVED Bogart. He stole my heart and James was perfect. Dogs have a way of pulling at your emotions and making you love them. I loved the relationship James has with his pup and seeing how he helps Shay, sweet. James was easy to like. Shay was ok, but she had a few to many hang-ups for me to fully like her. The story was fast-paced and I had fun with the story and leads. Theirs no shortage of action, suspense, and yummy bedroom scenes.
My only issues is that Shay and James sleep together on the first day they meet. I prefer reading about a couple that has spent sometime together before hopping into bed. Other then that, I had a delightful time and look forward to the next installment.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
James is looking for his missing partner, a K-9 named Bogart, and he runs cross Shay. These two have a little exchange and soon he’s drawn into her life and danger.
I LOVED Bogart. He stole my heart and James was perfect. Dogs have a way of pulling at your emotions and making you love them. I loved the relationship James has with his pup and seeing how he helps Shay, sweet. James was easy to like. Shay was ok, but she had a few to many hang-ups for me to fully like her. The story was fast-paced and I had fun with the story and leads. Theirs no shortage of action, suspense, and yummy bedroom scenes.
My only issues is that Shay and James sleep together on the first day they meet. I prefer reading about a couple that has spent sometime together before hopping into bed. Other then that, I had a delightful time and look forward to the next installment.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
June 26, 2014
Is a dog really man’s best friend or can he be persuaded? Such a cute idea for a book. A K-9 officer has his dog stolen and finds him in the arms of a woman who saved him from being euthanized. Only now both have an attachment to Prince/Bogart. Adorable right? I just wished it flowed better. I was at 25% and we were still on day one. Yes, there is some “insta infatuation” going on but that didn’t bother me so much.
I was confused by Shay; one minute she was this fierce independent woman, and the next…not so much. I just couldn’t connect with her. I really wanted to though. I liked her, but there was just something missing.
I do feel this to be a good summer book as it’s easy to pick up and walk away from for a bit. Yes, that’s meant as a compliment :)
I was confused by Shay; one minute she was this fierce independent woman, and the next…not so much. I just couldn’t connect with her. I really wanted to though. I liked her, but there was just something missing.
I do feel this to be a good summer book as it’s easy to pick up and walk away from for a bit. Yes, that’s meant as a compliment :)
October 16, 2014
เรื่องเริ่มต้นได้น่ารักดีนะคะ พระเอกตามเบาะแสเกี่ยวกับคู่หูที่โดนลักพาตัวไป จนมาถึงกระท่อมที่นางเอกพักอาศัยอยู่ ก่อนเรื่องจะเฉลยว่า "คู่หู" ที่พระเอกตามหาก็คือน้องหมาหน่วย K9 ซึ่งนางเอกรับมาเลี้ยงโดยไม่รู้ว่า โดนลักพาตัวมา
หลังจากพูดคุยจนเข้าใจเรื่องราวที่เกิดขึ้น นางเอกซึ่งมีปมชีวิตวัยเด็ก ประกอบกับถูกแฟนเก่าตามรังควาน ก็ไม่ยอมส่งคือน้องหมาให้กับพระเอกง่าย ๆ แม้จะรู้แก่ใจว่า เขาคือเจ้าของ เพราะเธอได้รักและผูกพันด้วยกันไปแล้ว การกระทำของนางเอกที่ไม่ยอมคืนหมาไม่เท่าไหรนะคะ แต่เราไม่ชอบสิ่งที่เธอพยายามจะทำ ก็คือการแจ้งความว่า พระเอกบุกรุกที่พักของเธอเพื่อหวังใช้แบล็กเมลล์ให้เขายกน้องหมาให้กับเธอ (ซึ่งมันเป็นไปไม่ได้ หมาเป็นทรัพย์สินของกรมตำรวจ) มันทำให้เราไม่ชอบนางเอกเอาเสียเลย
นอกจากนี้คาแร็คเตอร์ของเธอมีลักษณะของความเป็นเหยื่ออย่างน่าอึดอัด ตั้งแต่วัยเด็กเธอถูกมองว่า มีสภาพจิตไม่มั่นคง เพราะเคยทำร้ายร่างกายแฟนของแม่ ตอนเรียนก็โดนเพื่อน ๆ ล้อเลียน ทำให้ไม่มีความมั่นใจ แถมยังไม่ไว้ใจผู้ชาย (จากประสบการณ์เรื่องแฟนของแม่ที่ลวนลาม) แต่น่าแปลกนะคะ ด้วยอาการทั้งหมดที่ว่า และเธอนำมาแสดงออกกับพระเอก สร้างปัญหาให้กับความสัมพันธ์ที่พระเอกหวังจะสานต่อ แต่เธอกลับมีแฟน (ก่อนหน้าที่จะได้พบกับพระเอก) เชื่อใจเขาสารพัด แล้วก็ถูกทำร้าย จนมาตอกย้ำให้ไม่ไว้ใจผู้ชายอีก (คือเรางงน่ะค่ะ ถ้าหวาดระแวงผู้ชายขนาดนี้ ทำไมไว้ใจแฟนเก่า ซึ่งดูแย่มาก ๆ แถมเธอยังแสนจะไร้เดียงสา ไม่รู้ว่าเขาเป็นคนไม่ดี หรือกำลังยักยอกเงินบริษัทที่ทั้งคู่ทำงานอีก แต่พอมาเจอพระเอก บาดแผลในอดีตสารพัดที่มีผุดขึ้นมาเพื่อเป็นอุปสรรคในความรักของผู้ชายที่ดีดีมีให้)
อ่านแล้วเบื่อหน่ายความเป็น "เหยื่อ" ของนางเอก รู้สึกอึดอัดกับคนทั้งโลกที่ดูเหมือนจะกลั่นแกล้งเธอ การที่ตลอดทั้งชีวิตดูไม่มีใครเคยช่วยเหลือเธอเลย ทั้งหมดนั่นทำให้เราตั้งคำถามว่า ถ้านางเอกเป็นคนดีอย่างที่คนแต่งต้องการให้เราเชื่อว่าเธอเป็น ชีวิตของเธอจะแห้งแล้งปราศจากที่พี่งขนาดนี้เลยเชียวเหรอ
เรารู้สึกเหมือนนางเอกใช้ประสบการณ์อันเลวร้ายของตัวเองมาลงโทษพระเอก (ในขณะที่ไม่ใช่มันลงโทษคนร้ายซึ่งเป็นแฟนคนแรก)
แล้วก็มาเหล่าบรรดาตัวร้าย ที่แต่ละคนเหมือนจะถูกลอกมาจากศูนย์คนร้ายแห่งชาติ กล่าวคือ ดูเหมือนตัวการ์ตูน ไม่มีมิติ แฟนเก่านางเอกที่คบนางเอกไว้เผื่อเลือก ในเวลาเดียวกันก็แอบจีบลูกสาวคนใหญ่คนโตเอาไว้ (น่าแปลกก็คือ จีบสำเร็จจนได้หมั้นหมายไปแล้ว ทางนางเอกก็ขอเลิกกันไป เรื่องน่าจะจบ แต่คนแต่งกลัวไม่มีคนร้ายมั้งคะ ต้องเขียนให้แฟนคนนี้เป็นโรคประหลาด มาตามราวีนางเอก เพื่อ... ไม่เข้าใจเหมือนกันค่ะ เพราะดูก็ไม่ได้รัก หรืออยากได้ เขียนทำนองว่าอีโก้สูง ฉันต้องเป็นคนบอกเลิก ไม่ใช่เธอบอกเลิก มันขัดกับนิสัยของคนที่วางไว้นะ เพราะบอกว่า ชายคนนี้เห็นแก่ตัว ขี้โกง คนพวกนี้ชอบเอาตัวรอด การที่นางเอกเดินจากไปเอง ทำให้เรื่องง่ายลง เขาได้ผู้หญิงที่มีสถานะสูงอย่างที่ต้องการแล้ว ทำไมต้องมาแยแสนางเอกอีก)
ส่วนแฟนเก่าพระเอกก็เหมือนตัวตลก แต่ไม่ตลกเท่าคนร้าย
ผิดหวังมาก ๆ ขนาดทำให้เราขยาดที่จะลองซื้องานเขียนของนักเขียนใหม่เป็นพรินต์บุ๊คไปเลยค่ะ ต่อไปจะลองซื้ออีบุ๊คตอนลดราคามาอ่านก่อนดีกว่าค่ะ
หลังจากพูดคุยจนเข้าใจเรื่องราวที่เกิดขึ้น นางเอกซึ่งมีปมชีวิตวัยเด็ก ประกอบกับถูกแฟนเก่าตามรังควาน ก็ไม่ยอมส่งคือน้องหมาให้กับพระเอกง่าย ๆ แม้จะรู้แก่ใจว่า เขาคือเจ้าของ เพราะเธอได้รักและผูกพันด้วยกันไปแล้ว การกระทำของนางเอกที่ไม่ยอมคืนหมาไม่เท่าไหรนะคะ แต่เราไม่ชอบสิ่งที่เธอพยายามจะทำ ก็คือการแจ้งความว่า พระเอกบุกรุกที่พักของเธอเพื่อหวังใช้แบล็กเมลล์ให้เขายกน้องหมาให้กับเธอ (ซึ่งมันเป็นไปไม่ได้ หมาเป็นทรัพย์สินของกรมตำรวจ) มันทำให้เราไม่ชอบนางเอกเอาเสียเลย
นอกจากนี้คาแร็คเตอร์ของเธอมีลักษณะของความเป็นเหยื่ออย่างน่าอึดอัด ตั้งแต่วัยเด็กเธอถูกมองว่า มีสภาพจิตไม่มั่นคง เพราะเคยทำร้ายร่างกายแฟนของแม่ ตอนเรียนก็โดนเพื่อน ๆ ล้อเลียน ทำให้ไม่มีความมั่นใจ แถมยังไม่ไว้ใจผู้ชาย (จากประสบการณ์เรื่องแฟนของแม่ที่ลวนลาม) แต่น่าแปลกนะคะ ด้วยอาการทั้งหมดที่ว่า และเธอนำมาแสดงออกกับพระเอก สร้างปัญหาให้กับความสัมพันธ์ที่พระเอกหวังจะสานต่อ แต่เธอกลับมีแฟน (ก่อนหน้าที่จะได้พบกับพระเอก) เชื่อใจเขาสารพัด แล้วก็ถูกทำร้าย จนมาตอกย้ำให้ไม่ไว้ใจผู้ชายอีก (คือเรางงน่ะค่ะ ถ้าหวาดระแวงผู้ชายขนาดนี้ ทำไมไว้ใจแฟนเก่า ซึ่งดูแย่มาก ๆ แถมเธอยังแสนจะไร้เดียงสา ไม่รู้ว่าเขาเป็นคนไม่ดี หรือกำลังยักยอกเงินบริษัทที่ทั้งคู่ทำงานอีก แต่พอมาเจอพระเอก บาดแผลในอดีตสารพัดที่มีผุดขึ้นมาเพื่อเป็นอุปสรรคในความรักของผู้ชายที่ดีดีมีให้)
อ่านแล้วเบื่อหน่ายความเป็น "เหยื่อ" ของนางเอก รู้สึกอึดอัดกับคนทั้งโลกที่ดูเหมือนจะกลั่นแกล้งเธอ การที่ตลอดทั้งชีวิตดูไม่มีใครเคยช่วยเหลือเธอเลย ทั้งหมดนั่นทำให้เราตั้งคำถามว่า ถ้านางเอกเป็นคนดีอย่างที่คนแต่งต้องการให้เราเชื่อว่าเธอเป็น ชีวิตของเธอจะแห้งแล้งปราศจากที่พี่งขนาดนี้เลยเชียวเหรอ
เรารู้สึกเหมือนนางเอกใช้ประสบการณ์อันเลวร้ายของตัวเองมาลงโทษพระเอก (ในขณะที่ไม่ใช่มันลงโทษคนร้ายซึ่งเป็นแฟนคนแรก)
แล้วก็มาเหล่าบรรดาตัวร้าย ที่แต่ละคนเหมือนจะถูกลอกมาจากศูนย์คนร้ายแห่งชาติ กล่าวคือ ดูเหมือนตัวการ์ตูน ไม่มีมิติ แฟนเก่านางเอกที่คบนางเอกไว้เผื่อเลือก ในเวลาเดียวกันก็แอบจีบลูกสาวคนใหญ่คนโตเอาไว้ (น่าแปลกก็คือ จีบสำเร็จจนได้หมั้นหมายไปแล้ว ทางนางเอกก็ขอเลิกกันไป เรื่องน่าจะจบ แต่คนแต่งกลัวไม่มีคนร้ายมั้งคะ ต้องเขียนให้แฟนคนนี้เป็นโรคประหลาด มาตามราวีนางเอก เพื่อ... ไม่เข้าใจเหมือนกันค่ะ เพราะดูก็ไม่ได้รัก หรืออยากได้ เขียนทำนองว่าอีโก้สูง ฉันต้องเป็นคนบอกเลิก ไม่ใช่เธอบอกเลิก มันขัดกับนิสัยของคนที่วางไว้นะ เพราะบอกว่า ชายคนนี้เห็นแก่ตัว ขี้โกง คนพวกนี้ชอบเอาตัวรอด การที่นางเอกเดินจากไปเอง ทำให้เรื่องง่ายลง เขาได้ผู้หญิงที่มีสถานะสูงอย่างที่ต้องการแล้ว ทำไมต้องมาแยแสนางเอกอีก)
ส่วนแฟนเก่าพระเอกก็เหมือนตัวตลก แต่ไม่ตลกเท่าคนร้าย
ผิดหวังมาก ๆ ขนาดทำให้เราขยาดที่จะลองซื้องานเขียนของนักเขียนใหม่เป็นพรินต์บุ๊คไปเลยค่ะ ต่อไปจะลองซื้ออีบุ๊คตอนลดราคามาอ่านก่อนดีกว่าค่ะ
August 5, 2014
Irresistible Force is the first full length novel in the K-9 Rescue series. It is a well written and professionally edited romance/suspense novel.
The plot was good, original and fast paced. Both the Hero, James, and the heroine, Shay, are dealing with unpleasant ex's that are plotting against them.
The character James and his dog are well developed and reading about their work and training as a police K-9 team was interesting. James was a well rounded, likable character and he was believable. The dog was fun and loveable.
Where this book lost me was with the heroine. Shay has been a victim of domestic violence and bullying, but that doesn't explain her bizarre behavior. She goes from seductive to abusive in a snap. One time she actually physically attacks James and splits his lip. All they were doing is sitting on the couch talking. When she morphed from victim of domestic abuse to perpetrator of domestic abuse I was done with her.
Even though Irresistible Force is part of a series it reads well as a stand alone. It ends with a HFN. There is an attempted rape scene that could be disturbing to some readers.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
The plot was good, original and fast paced. Both the Hero, James, and the heroine, Shay, are dealing with unpleasant ex's that are plotting against them.
The character James and his dog are well developed and reading about their work and training as a police K-9 team was interesting. James was a well rounded, likable character and he was believable. The dog was fun and loveable.
Where this book lost me was with the heroine. Shay has been a victim of domestic violence and bullying, but that doesn't explain her bizarre behavior. She goes from seductive to abusive in a snap. One time she actually physically attacks James and splits his lip. All they were doing is sitting on the couch talking. When she morphed from victim of domestic abuse to perpetrator of domestic abuse I was done with her.
Even though Irresistible Force is part of a series it reads well as a stand alone. It ends with a HFN. There is an attempted rape scene that could be disturbing to some readers.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
May 9, 2016
There was a particular scene which resulted in the untimely demise of a cat. We can all be thankful that the author didn't do her research on that because no cat I've ever met would fall for it or put up with it.
Setting that aside Irresistible Force is a halfway decent Romantic Suspense. It's a debut so a little rough around the edges but overall entertaining and engaging. Its main weakness is there was just too much going on. It was kind of like Spiderman 3 in that sense....way too many bad guys.
Setting that aside Irresistible Force is a halfway decent Romantic Suspense. It's a debut so a little rough around the edges but overall entertaining and engaging. Its main weakness is there was just too much going on. It was kind of like Spiderman 3 in that sense....way too many bad guys.
February 26, 2016
3.5 stars. Who can pass up a story with a loyal, lovable K-9? I thought the conflict was interesting and the story kept my attention, but I could not relate the to the heroine. More review to come.
May 29, 2016
This was pretty good! Cute dog, hot hero, strong heroine. A bit of action and some hot sex scenes. Plus the narration was fantastic. Totally looking him up for more. Very mellow voice and did a good job with the female voice as well.
December 2, 2018
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
This book has been on my TBR list for what seems like forever. Every time I saw another review for a book in this series, I wanted to start it. But for whatever reason, I never got around to it. I even had a copy of this audiobook for a while. I’m a fan of Romantic Suspense and I love when pets are secondary characters in the story. So this series is right up my alley. Add to that, I’m a fan of the narrator, Jeffrey Kafer, so it was win-win for me.
Shay Appleton adopts a dog that comes through the shelter. He seems like he would be a great guard dog to protect her from an abusive ex. That is until she learns the dog actually does have an owner, Officer James Cannon.
I really loved Prince/Bogart, the Belgian Malinois police dog. He was a sweet dog with good instincts. I would’ve loved if he was a larger part of the story. Yes, he is the reason these two come together, but that’s where he mostly was left. I was kinda expecting him to have a larger role.
Both the hero and heroine of this story have really bad ex’s. Shay’s ex-boyfriend is a stalker and into physical and mental abuse. James’ ex-girlfriend only wanted someone who would look good on her arm and help her news show ratings. The drama between the ex’s and the hero and heroine were a bit tiresome. I wasn’t a fan of this part of the story. For both of them, the ex’s made me have less respect for the hero/heroine for not seeing it sooner. Both of them seemed to stay in the relationships longer because it was easier than trying to end it.
Overall, I thought this was a pretty good start to a new series. I will be looking to continue the series. I will also be continuing on audio (I’m sure you’re all surprised).
Narration
As I said, I’ve been a fan of Jeffrey Kafer ever since I first listen to him narrate a book more two years ago. He’s great at every genre I’ve listened to him read. He does great job with the male and female characters. I think his pace and tone are always spot on. If you haven’t given Jeffrey Kafer a try, I highly recommend him.
This book has been on my TBR list for what seems like forever. Every time I saw another review for a book in this series, I wanted to start it. But for whatever reason, I never got around to it. I even had a copy of this audiobook for a while. I’m a fan of Romantic Suspense and I love when pets are secondary characters in the story. So this series is right up my alley. Add to that, I’m a fan of the narrator, Jeffrey Kafer, so it was win-win for me.
Shay Appleton adopts a dog that comes through the shelter. He seems like he would be a great guard dog to protect her from an abusive ex. That is until she learns the dog actually does have an owner, Officer James Cannon.
I really loved Prince/Bogart, the Belgian Malinois police dog. He was a sweet dog with good instincts. I would’ve loved if he was a larger part of the story. Yes, he is the reason these two come together, but that’s where he mostly was left. I was kinda expecting him to have a larger role.
Both the hero and heroine of this story have really bad ex’s. Shay’s ex-boyfriend is a stalker and into physical and mental abuse. James’ ex-girlfriend only wanted someone who would look good on her arm and help her news show ratings. The drama between the ex’s and the hero and heroine were a bit tiresome. I wasn’t a fan of this part of the story. For both of them, the ex’s made me have less respect for the hero/heroine for not seeing it sooner. Both of them seemed to stay in the relationships longer because it was easier than trying to end it.
Overall, I thought this was a pretty good start to a new series. I will be looking to continue the series. I will also be continuing on audio (I’m sure you’re all surprised).
Narration
As I said, I’ve been a fan of Jeffrey Kafer ever since I first listen to him narrate a book more two years ago. He’s great at every genre I’ve listened to him read. He does great job with the male and female characters. I think his pace and tone are always spot on. If you haven’t given Jeffrey Kafer a try, I highly recommend him.
August 26, 2014
Irresistible Force is the newest release from author D.D. Ayres. The blurb sounded great, and the cover was hot as hell – plus I seem to be in a little bit of a romantic suspense phase, so this book fit right in to what I was looking for.. I was very excited to try a new author – and I wasn’t let down.
There are basically three main characters in this book. James, who is a cop, Shay, who is our heroine and having a bit of a rough patch, and Bogart (a.k.a. Prince), the canine at the center of it all. I’m not even sure where to start, so I’m going with the dog! Bogart!! First, what an awesome name. Through a sick and twisted turn of events, he ends up in the hands of Shay, who doesn’t realize he is K-9, but does realize he is something special and awesome. Bogart is not only a police dog, he is a great big huge heart wrapped in the middle of some doggy fur. He was great! Of course, dogs can’t speak actual words, but Bogart had plenty to say, and I know my doggy loving friends will be as wowed by him as I was.
James is his handler, but we may as well say owner. The two have bonded and are as tight as partners on the force could be. James is absolutely distraught when Bogart goes missing. But aside from Bogart, James is a terrific and upstanding guy. He is caring, daring, and sexy – a favorite combo of mine, by far. He instantly has an attraction for Shay, and he acts on it. I can’t tell you how much I loved that. I was so happy to see someone just going for it, rather than waiting and wondering.
Now let’s talk about Shay. Oooooh my goodness. This girl. She could have a whole book just from her backstory. The girl has got history, and on top of her tragic history, she has a habit of running and not standing up when she really needed to. But you know, she’s growing, and in this book she grows by leaps and bounds. I really liked her. She took herself to an uncomfortable place and made it work for her. She becomes this strong woman, and you can’t help but be proud of her. Characters like her just resonate with me, I love to cheer for them and when I catch myself smiling over their accomplishments, it’s a win.
So of course, there are sparks galore between Shay and James, definitely some mighty fine chemistry. And some amazing kisses! But there is so much more at play here. There are devious and manipulative exes on both sides. Seriously – those exes are the worst!! I couldn’t even decide which one I hated more, and I couldn’t fathom how either James or Shay ended up with such idiots! The only question through the book – is the suspense part of the plot from them, or someone else entirely?
And that’s where this book is awesome. You don’t find out until you need to who is behind the mayhem of vandalism and menacing phone calls, and threats of violence. D.D. Ayress did a great job of keeping me entertained, interested, and wondering who the heck was behind it all. And while there were times in the beginning I felt like it lagged for a page or two, the rest of the story more than made up for it with high tension, romance, suspense and mystery. If you are a fan or romantic suspense, and our four legged friends making their way into the story, then you definitely want to read Irresistible Force.
There are basically three main characters in this book. James, who is a cop, Shay, who is our heroine and having a bit of a rough patch, and Bogart (a.k.a. Prince), the canine at the center of it all. I’m not even sure where to start, so I’m going with the dog! Bogart!! First, what an awesome name. Through a sick and twisted turn of events, he ends up in the hands of Shay, who doesn’t realize he is K-9, but does realize he is something special and awesome. Bogart is not only a police dog, he is a great big huge heart wrapped in the middle of some doggy fur. He was great! Of course, dogs can’t speak actual words, but Bogart had plenty to say, and I know my doggy loving friends will be as wowed by him as I was.
James is his handler, but we may as well say owner. The two have bonded and are as tight as partners on the force could be. James is absolutely distraught when Bogart goes missing. But aside from Bogart, James is a terrific and upstanding guy. He is caring, daring, and sexy – a favorite combo of mine, by far. He instantly has an attraction for Shay, and he acts on it. I can’t tell you how much I loved that. I was so happy to see someone just going for it, rather than waiting and wondering.
Now let’s talk about Shay. Oooooh my goodness. This girl. She could have a whole book just from her backstory. The girl has got history, and on top of her tragic history, she has a habit of running and not standing up when she really needed to. But you know, she’s growing, and in this book she grows by leaps and bounds. I really liked her. She took herself to an uncomfortable place and made it work for her. She becomes this strong woman, and you can’t help but be proud of her. Characters like her just resonate with me, I love to cheer for them and when I catch myself smiling over their accomplishments, it’s a win.
So of course, there are sparks galore between Shay and James, definitely some mighty fine chemistry. And some amazing kisses! But there is so much more at play here. There are devious and manipulative exes on both sides. Seriously – those exes are the worst!! I couldn’t even decide which one I hated more, and I couldn’t fathom how either James or Shay ended up with such idiots! The only question through the book – is the suspense part of the plot from them, or someone else entirely?
And that’s where this book is awesome. You don’t find out until you need to who is behind the mayhem of vandalism and menacing phone calls, and threats of violence. D.D. Ayress did a great job of keeping me entertained, interested, and wondering who the heck was behind it all. And while there were times in the beginning I felt like it lagged for a page or two, the rest of the story more than made up for it with high tension, romance, suspense and mystery. If you are a fan or romantic suspense, and our four legged friends making their way into the story, then you definitely want to read Irresistible Force.
May 19, 2016
How much can one person take in their life - apparently Shay Appleton can! This book included major angst between Shay and Officer James Cannon. I am not sure who I liked and admired the most - James or his canine partner, Bogart. Bogart was a sweetheart of a dog but could tear a limb off if commanded to do so. I really liked how James and Bogart knew each other and could immediately tell if moods changed or there was a problem yet to surface.
Shay has had a tough life due to an incident when she was just 14. At 26, she is still tormented by her past and just wants to lead a normal life. She has definitely made some choices that just add to her misery. Shay had an ex-boyfriend, who happens to be a bank executive, an ex-girlfriend of James’ who happened to not like Bogart, and then there is James who after a few short encounters wants to right Shay’s world. And, the majority of Shay’s current woes began when Bogart was kidnapped and brought to the animal shelter where Shay just happened to be volunteering.
This could have been a 5 star book for me if it weren’t so detailed and long on Shay’s issue with Erick, her ex. Some of the issues were unbelievable, especially when it came to Shay’s past and the fact that Erick kept stalking her even after his engagement to another was splattered all over the local papers. I also didn’t see the love interest between James and Shay - friends with benefits perhaps. This reader did find enough interest to continue with this series and see where it goes.
Shay has had a tough life due to an incident when she was just 14. At 26, she is still tormented by her past and just wants to lead a normal life. She has definitely made some choices that just add to her misery. Shay had an ex-boyfriend, who happens to be a bank executive, an ex-girlfriend of James’ who happened to not like Bogart, and then there is James who after a few short encounters wants to right Shay’s world. And, the majority of Shay’s current woes began when Bogart was kidnapped and brought to the animal shelter where Shay just happened to be volunteering.
This could have been a 5 star book for me if it weren’t so detailed and long on Shay’s issue with Erick, her ex. Some of the issues were unbelievable, especially when it came to Shay’s past and the fact that Erick kept stalking her even after his engagement to another was splattered all over the local papers. I also didn’t see the love interest between James and Shay - friends with benefits perhaps. This reader did find enough interest to continue with this series and see where it goes.
December 5, 2016
I had two books to read, Irresistible Force and a best seller, soon to be a blockbuster movie. My choice: Irresistible Force. It was a great choice as I just wasn't in the mood for all the expectations you have with an acclaimed "best seller". Irresistible Force is an unabashed romantic-suspense and it starts hot, gets steamy and keeps you hooked to the end.
K-9 Officer James Cannon is on a stakeout at the location of a suspect. He has tracked his suspect to a remote location and is set to make his move. This stakeout is personal and he is out of his jurisdiction. The suspect stole his K-9 partner, Bogart, and James wants him back. When he confronts the "suspect", well, let's just say is turned out to be more lust than bust.
Shay Appleton saved "Prince" from being put down for being a vicious dog and just loves him. The dog is highly intelligent and intuitive and is just what Shay needs to feel safe after a nasty parting with her ex and feelings of being watched. That all ends when a belligerent man appears at her door and demands the return of Bogart, a stolen police dog. That officer, James Cannon, is off the charts hot is a complication.
Shay is a ball of complications and one of them is James' physical response whenever he is near her. But, her mysterious past and nasty ex, stalkers and obscene phone calls make it difficult to get to know the real Shay, but the attraction is real and hard to deny.
K-9 Officer James Cannon is on a stakeout at the location of a suspect. He has tracked his suspect to a remote location and is set to make his move. This stakeout is personal and he is out of his jurisdiction. The suspect stole his K-9 partner, Bogart, and James wants him back. When he confronts the "suspect", well, let's just say is turned out to be more lust than bust.
Shay Appleton saved "Prince" from being put down for being a vicious dog and just loves him. The dog is highly intelligent and intuitive and is just what Shay needs to feel safe after a nasty parting with her ex and feelings of being watched. That all ends when a belligerent man appears at her door and demands the return of Bogart, a stolen police dog. That officer, James Cannon, is off the charts hot is a complication.
Shay is a ball of complications and one of them is James' physical response whenever he is near her. But, her mysterious past and nasty ex, stalkers and obscene phone calls make it difficult to get to know the real Shay, but the attraction is real and hard to deny.
June 21, 2015
Ayres kept me on the edge of my seat through this one. The intensity of the story and of the characters’ emotions are at a high from the first chapter to the last. Ayres works a sense of urgency throughout, weaving all parts together into a seamlessly unforgettable whole. I thoroughly enjoyed the intricate yet exciting storyline laid bare for the audience.
The characters in this story were one of a kind. The male lead, a steamy alpha cop with a dog, was priceless. He didn’t necessarily have everything right, but he worked to get it that way. His loyalty to those he cared about was admirable without being over the top. I both admire and feel for the female lead. She’s had so many things go wrong for her, but no one believes her. Her sense of self preservation and her strength of character are defining, both to her character and the story as a whole. I love that Bogart is an actual character in this story. He’s not just a pet who causes trouble or gives comfort. He is an honest to goodness player in the story. Ayres also highlights the many strengths of working K-9s. It not only draws you to Bogart, but helps develop the story as a whole.
This novel has it all. It’s exciting, suspenseful, hot as sin (without being crass), and even romantic. I couldn’t put it down!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this story were one of a kind. The male lead, a steamy alpha cop with a dog, was priceless. He didn’t necessarily have everything right, but he worked to get it that way. His loyalty to those he cared about was admirable without being over the top. I both admire and feel for the female lead. She’s had so many things go wrong for her, but no one believes her. Her sense of self preservation and her strength of character are defining, both to her character and the story as a whole. I love that Bogart is an actual character in this story. He’s not just a pet who causes trouble or gives comfort. He is an honest to goodness player in the story. Ayres also highlights the many strengths of working K-9s. It not only draws you to Bogart, but helps develop the story as a whole.
This novel has it all. It’s exciting, suspenseful, hot as sin (without being crass), and even romantic. I couldn’t put it down!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2014
It had to be fate, when Shay Appleton meets the dog she adopted at the shelter it seems like it was perfect timing. Her ex is not taking no for an answer and she needs all the protection she can get. However Shay never expected to find out that her dog was actually a K-9 dog and his owner has just showed up on her doorstep demanding his dog back.
Officer James Cannon wants to believe Shay is a thief, but the more he delves into how she acquired the door the more he realizes it is of his own making. It doesn't take much for James to realize that Shay is afraid of something and the cop and man in him wants to protect her. As James gets her to agree to see where the chemistry between them is going, he can't help the feeling in his gut that he needs to keep her close.
This was pretty good. A bit rushed in some places and Shay is a hot mess. I think I would have liked more delved into her past, you get answers but it felt like it could have been explored a bit more. James is a rock and for Shay that is important, she has lived a life of let downs. I would check out more in this series.
Officer James Cannon wants to believe Shay is a thief, but the more he delves into how she acquired the door the more he realizes it is of his own making. It doesn't take much for James to realize that Shay is afraid of something and the cop and man in him wants to protect her. As James gets her to agree to see where the chemistry between them is going, he can't help the feeling in his gut that he needs to keep her close.
This was pretty good. A bit rushed in some places and Shay is a hot mess. I think I would have liked more delved into her past, you get answers but it felt like it could have been explored a bit more. James is a rock and for Shay that is important, she has lived a life of let downs. I would check out more in this series.
June 18, 2017
Hugely dissappointing. Not even a cute pooch can offsets a disastrous "heroine " . Shay's behavior swings were giving me a whiplash and sheer stupidity of some of her actions was staggering. Everything bad that could happen to her was thrown in -the only thing that was missing was alien abduction. James did not win any prizes either - talk about chew toy. A real letdown after promising intro novella.
June 16, 2017
I like the idea of the K-9 series and the first book doesnt dissapoint
the characters are interesting enough
the characters are interesting enough
March 26, 2015
Have you ever requested a book to review from Netgalley and come to find out it's not the first book in a series? I have done this many times. (Is it really that difficult to put the book order number on the page??) This time I requested to review Force of Attraction, book 2 in the K-9 series so I went ahead and purchased the first book. While Irresistible Force wasn't my favorite read this week, it was cute in some places, and incredibly heated in others. I wound up enjoying this book so much I can't wait to dig in to Force of Attraction.
The most adorable reason: Bogart. This K-9 pup stole my heart from chapter one, from his heroic qualities that make him super protective of both Shay and James to his mischievous side that made me giggle - such as when he ate half the fried oysters when Shay wasn't looking. I kept wanting to simultaneously hug the overgrown pup and feed him lots of delicious treats.
Shay was a fun heroine that could be hard to understand at times (like how she kept referring to her ex-bf-turned-rapist-turned-stalker as "harmless") but ultimately turned out to be a kick-ass, if a bit - okay, a lot, but she's got her reasons! - damaged heroine. She's also a character I would like to give lots of cuddles.
James was no less sexy than the cover will have you believe and he was pretty smart to use Bogart's love for Shay (and vice versa) in wooing the lady. After all, Shay gives 100% in her devotion to pets, but it's a lot harder for her to trust humans when all they have done her whole life was let her down. I found it cute and completely irresistible to watch James and Bogart woo her into falling in love with them both!
This book may have been slow at places and predictable in others, but the steamy sex scenes completely make up for it ... and so did the character cuteness. Both James and Shay turned out to be so much more kick-ass than they thought in the end. I felt like I should have given them a standing ovation, but since it was 1 AM, I just laid in bed and soaked in such a satisfying happily ever after. It may not have been completely realistic, but what the hell I had a blast and will be reading Force of Attraction very soon!
You made it to the end! If you enjoyed my review, please consider giving it a thumbs up on Amazon *HERE* Thank you for all that you do! ❤
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This review was originally posted on One Curvy Blogger
June 25, 2015
“Your mission is clear cut and well defined. The set of philosophies you develop in order to achieve that mission will determine whether you make a beneficial contribution to the role police dogs play in modern law enforcement or whether you become a liability which undermines the good work of many men and women before you.” – Bruce Jackson, Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, Washington
I love stories with animals. A story with a military or police dog? Even more. Humans choose to be police or military. Their dogs do it out of love. Love for their handler first and foremost. Love for their work, pride in what they do. They lay their lives on the line for the handlers they love.
Bogart is just such a dog. A Belgian Malinois, Bogart has been police officer, best friend, and companion to Officer James Cannon in their positions with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Now, Bogart has been kidnapped, and James will do anything, including going against direct orders, in order to track down and bring back Bogart.
Finally locating Bogart at a small cabin outside of Raleigh, James intends to arrest the woman he believes is his kidnapper. But things aren’t like he thinks – and Bogart, or “Prince” as he is now called – is determined to protect not only James but also Shay, the woman who rescued him from the doggie gas chamber and brought him home with her.
The story is a bit typical, but I identified with Shay. Her history, ongoing terror and hyper-vigilance are well done, and punched me in the heart. Her stalker? Very believable, as was the treatment she went through at the hands of the police as a child. There could have been a well-written literary novel built on these same bones, going further into Shay’s background and what happened to her throughout her life. I would have really enjoyed that very much. James was a good guy, very patient with a deeply damaged Shay. His obsession with getting Bogart back was believable, including his ‘not quite legal’ stalking of Shay, as was Shay’s determination to keep the dog she rescued from the doors of the gas chamber. All in all, I enjoyed the book, though it isn’t one I would call ‘outstanding’. Bogart/Prince was the best part of the story, and the narrator’s pronunciation of the German terminology used in handling Bogart was beautifully done. Jeffrey Kafer is an excellent narrator, and I am always interested to hear what he is narrating next.
"Called To Give My All"
I am a deputy in a canine crew.
I've been trained to see it through.
When danger's near my ears perk up,
they taught me that as a little pup.
I'm often there to protect your rights,
my presence sometimes hinders fights.
I never attack with thought to kill,
when subduing one, my job I fill.
I never worry a single thought,
as to how I'll fare at a certain spot.
The love I have for a handler's care,
is all I need, each day to fare.
And if some day my luck turns bad,
I'll relish all the joys I've had.
To be with men who stand for
good, in a special kind of brotherhood.
The story's end by now you know,
of how I tried for a better show.
I did my best, though I did fall,
when I was called and gave my all.
Author Unknown
I love stories with animals. A story with a military or police dog? Even more. Humans choose to be police or military. Their dogs do it out of love. Love for their handler first and foremost. Love for their work, pride in what they do. They lay their lives on the line for the handlers they love.
Bogart is just such a dog. A Belgian Malinois, Bogart has been police officer, best friend, and companion to Officer James Cannon in their positions with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Now, Bogart has been kidnapped, and James will do anything, including going against direct orders, in order to track down and bring back Bogart.
Finally locating Bogart at a small cabin outside of Raleigh, James intends to arrest the woman he believes is his kidnapper. But things aren’t like he thinks – and Bogart, or “Prince” as he is now called – is determined to protect not only James but also Shay, the woman who rescued him from the doggie gas chamber and brought him home with her.
The story is a bit typical, but I identified with Shay. Her history, ongoing terror and hyper-vigilance are well done, and punched me in the heart. Her stalker? Very believable, as was the treatment she went through at the hands of the police as a child. There could have been a well-written literary novel built on these same bones, going further into Shay’s background and what happened to her throughout her life. I would have really enjoyed that very much. James was a good guy, very patient with a deeply damaged Shay. His obsession with getting Bogart back was believable, including his ‘not quite legal’ stalking of Shay, as was Shay’s determination to keep the dog she rescued from the doors of the gas chamber. All in all, I enjoyed the book, though it isn’t one I would call ‘outstanding’. Bogart/Prince was the best part of the story, and the narrator’s pronunciation of the German terminology used in handling Bogart was beautifully done. Jeffrey Kafer is an excellent narrator, and I am always interested to hear what he is narrating next.
"Called To Give My All"
I am a deputy in a canine crew.
I've been trained to see it through.
When danger's near my ears perk up,
they taught me that as a little pup.
I'm often there to protect your rights,
my presence sometimes hinders fights.
I never attack with thought to kill,
when subduing one, my job I fill.
I never worry a single thought,
as to how I'll fare at a certain spot.
The love I have for a handler's care,
is all I need, each day to fare.
And if some day my luck turns bad,
I'll relish all the joys I've had.
To be with men who stand for
good, in a special kind of brotherhood.
The story's end by now you know,
of how I tried for a better show.
I did my best, though I did fall,
when I was called and gave my all.
Author Unknown
November 6, 2018
Irresistible Force
4.5 Stars
After his K-9 partner disappears, Officer James Cannon tracks him down to a cabin in the woods and is none too happy to discover that the culprit is a beautiful and terrified young woman. Determined to get away from an abusive ex, Shay Appleton is thrilled when an incredible stray is brought into the animal shelter where she volunteers. Unfortunately, her new watch dog belongs to a gorgeous yet obnoxious police officer who has no intention of giving him, or Shay, up ….
An intense and fast-paced action plot, a steamy romance and a dog to die for - what’s not to love?
Much has been made in the reviews of the unlikable heroine. However, the reasons for the reviewers dislike, while probably accurate and valid, are also the reasons that her character appealed to me. I have a tremendous soft spot for prickly heroines (Lily Bard, Harper Connolly) who are more realistic. Not everyone can be the sweet, loving, open and honest woman that men fawn over … in fact, these are rather tedious and boring.
Shay is damaged not doubt about it, and her traumatic experiences have shaped her personality and her decision making processes. It is not uncommon for an abused and traumatized woman to avoid figures of authority and as such her reactions to her ex and to James are believable. That said, the fact that she grows throughout the book, comes into her own and ultimately stands up for herself validates my faith in her as a strong and fiercely determined heroine.
While my preference is usually for a more Alpha hero, James is the perfect man to help bring Shay out of her shell. He is not domineering or overbearing, but gentle, sweet and understanding. It is also a good thing that he stands firm in the face of Shay’s stubbornness and refuses to give in when she rejects him.
The stalker plot is the weakest element as it doesn’t appear to have any real direction. The author seems to have changed her mind about the focus halfway through, which leads to a disorganized and contrived resolution. Nevertheless, the action scenes are exciting and the climax intense and gripping.
All in all, a solid romantic suspense and dog lovers will be swooning over Bogart. I know I was.
4.5 Stars
After his K-9 partner disappears, Officer James Cannon tracks him down to a cabin in the woods and is none too happy to discover that the culprit is a beautiful and terrified young woman. Determined to get away from an abusive ex, Shay Appleton is thrilled when an incredible stray is brought into the animal shelter where she volunteers. Unfortunately, her new watch dog belongs to a gorgeous yet obnoxious police officer who has no intention of giving him, or Shay, up ….
An intense and fast-paced action plot, a steamy romance and a dog to die for - what’s not to love?
Much has been made in the reviews of the unlikable heroine. However, the reasons for the reviewers dislike, while probably accurate and valid, are also the reasons that her character appealed to me. I have a tremendous soft spot for prickly heroines (Lily Bard, Harper Connolly) who are more realistic. Not everyone can be the sweet, loving, open and honest woman that men fawn over … in fact, these are rather tedious and boring.
Shay is damaged not doubt about it, and her traumatic experiences have shaped her personality and her decision making processes. It is not uncommon for an abused and traumatized woman to avoid figures of authority and as such her reactions to her ex and to James are believable. That said, the fact that she grows throughout the book, comes into her own and ultimately stands up for herself validates my faith in her as a strong and fiercely determined heroine.
While my preference is usually for a more Alpha hero, James is the perfect man to help bring Shay out of her shell. He is not domineering or overbearing, but gentle, sweet and understanding. It is also a good thing that he stands firm in the face of Shay’s stubbornness and refuses to give in when she rejects him.
The stalker plot is the weakest element as it doesn’t appear to have any real direction. The author seems to have changed her mind about the focus halfway through, which leads to a disorganized and contrived resolution. Nevertheless, the action scenes are exciting and the climax intense and gripping.
All in all, a solid romantic suspense and dog lovers will be swooning over Bogart. I know I was.
June 9, 2016
2.5 - "In one short day I've gone from nut to slut." Stars.
Irresistible Force is the first full novel in the K-9 Rescue series. I really enjoyed its predecessor Necessary Force, even though a novella, it was well written with likeable characters and the well developed plot.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t quite as enamoured with this book. The storyline was one I have read many times in its various forms, just with the addition of a dog in the mix. It was pretty easy to work out that not one but two separate entities were threatening Shay, and the plot felt a little rushed in parts. I found James to be a really weak character, and heartless bitch I may well be, seeing as Shay is supposed to be the victim in all this, but she actually reminded me of a hybrid Jennifer Jason Leigh in Single White Female and Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction for a lot of the story.
She did nothing halfway. Angry, hurt, scared, all her emotions were expressed straight up in your face.
What really ruined this book for me, over and above the fact I found Shay a little Looney Toons -
This story had potential, I love all the tropes that were used under normal circumstances, and Shay did make amends about most things as the story wrapped up… But I can’t really class it as a winner when Bogart the dog was my favorite character in the book!
So far, so-so.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Irresistible Force is the first full novel in the K-9 Rescue series. I really enjoyed its predecessor Necessary Force, even though a novella, it was well written with likeable characters and the well developed plot.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t quite as enamoured with this book. The storyline was one I have read many times in its various forms, just with the addition of a dog in the mix. It was pretty easy to work out that not one but two separate entities were threatening Shay, and the plot felt a little rushed in parts. I found James to be a really weak character, and heartless bitch I may well be, seeing as Shay is supposed to be the victim in all this, but she actually reminded me of a hybrid Jennifer Jason Leigh in Single White Female and Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction for a lot of the story.
She did nothing halfway. Angry, hurt, scared, all her emotions were expressed straight up in your face.
What really ruined this book for me, over and above the fact I found Shay a little Looney Toons -
This story had potential, I love all the tropes that were used under normal circumstances, and Shay did make amends about most things as the story wrapped up… But I can’t really class it as a winner when Bogart the dog was my favorite character in the book!
So far, so-so.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
July 28, 2014
IRRESISTIBLE FORCE was an engaging romantic suspense title with, perhaps, on overabundance of stalkers. The story begins when police K-9 officer James Cannon forces his way into Shay Appleton's isolated cabin because he believes she has kidnapped his dog Bogart. Shay had rescued Bogart, who she named Prince, when someone dropped him off at the shelter where she volunteered demanding that the dog be put down.
She was glad to have Prince for protection. She had broken it off with her abusive ex Eric but he hadn't stopped harassing her by leaving gifts and constantly cornering her demanding that she come back to him. Shay had gone to the police but had retracted her statement when Eric threatened to expose her past. As a 14-year-old she had been assaulted by her mother's boyfriend and had stabbed him. The trauma of the assault stole her voice and her memory. By the time she had recovered both the boyfriend had accused her of assault which led to hospitalization for a nervous breakdown and a sealed juvenile record. Shay still suffers from anxiety attacks that are only made worse by Eric's current actions.
James wants his dog back but is also drawn to Shay. When she describes the woman who dropped Bogart off at the shelter, James recognized a former girlfriend. Since the girlfriend is a TV personality in Charlotte, she doesn't want her reputation ruined by having her actions exposed. So, she decides to sue Shay and James for attempting to defame her character. That would be bad enough but she also gets one of the guys she interviewed in prison to have one of his friends harass Shay.
This was an entertaining story. I loved the romance that grew between Shay and James. I loved how she finally came to love and trust him. I was also very taken with Bogart who was a really great character too. I liked his playful but protective relationship with Shay and his work relationship with James.
This was a great story for romance lovers and for dog lovers.
She was glad to have Prince for protection. She had broken it off with her abusive ex Eric but he hadn't stopped harassing her by leaving gifts and constantly cornering her demanding that she come back to him. Shay had gone to the police but had retracted her statement when Eric threatened to expose her past. As a 14-year-old she had been assaulted by her mother's boyfriend and had stabbed him. The trauma of the assault stole her voice and her memory. By the time she had recovered both the boyfriend had accused her of assault which led to hospitalization for a nervous breakdown and a sealed juvenile record. Shay still suffers from anxiety attacks that are only made worse by Eric's current actions.
James wants his dog back but is also drawn to Shay. When she describes the woman who dropped Bogart off at the shelter, James recognized a former girlfriend. Since the girlfriend is a TV personality in Charlotte, she doesn't want her reputation ruined by having her actions exposed. So, she decides to sue Shay and James for attempting to defame her character. That would be bad enough but she also gets one of the guys she interviewed in prison to have one of his friends harass Shay.
This was an entertaining story. I loved the romance that grew between Shay and James. I loved how she finally came to love and trust him. I was also very taken with Bogart who was a really great character too. I liked his playful but protective relationship with Shay and his work relationship with James.
This was a great story for romance lovers and for dog lovers.
July 5, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/23qgoI0
The story:
Ooo! Now this was good! Irresistible Force totally swept me up in a rush of action and sexy romance. The quick of it is that James has been searching for his missing partner, a K-9 named Bogart, and he's finally found him! Only thing is...Shay swears the pooch is hers! He was turned over at a kill shelter and she adopted him. A little growly exchange and he's taking his partner home but something's niggling and taking another swing by Shay's house he's drawn into her life and a danger that's swirling about her.
I loved these two! And Bogart the pup! They're awesome people and so easy to like. James was just flat out sexy and lickable. I loved his relationship with his pup and seeing him with Shay. And she's crazy strong and working towards pulling her life together. They had crazy chemistry and dayum the sex scenes were insanely hot. Lots of yummy action in the bedroom and just as much outside the bedroom as they try to figure out a threat against Shay and what happened with Bogart's disappearance. It was ALL nicely done and kept me out walking longer than I would usually go since I just couldn't stop listening.
The Narration:
This was my first time listening to Jeffrey Kafer and I really enjoyed him. He's got a sexy voice that was just a little gravely and really did a nice job with all of the parts. I was seriously digging his sex scenes. Yeah. I really was. lol I was a little nervous about how he'd handle the female voices but, while not too feminine, they worked for me too. I did speed the playtime up to 1.5 but that's my typical setting when listening. I'll be listening to more of his narrations without question.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/23qgoI0
The story:
Ooo! Now this was good! Irresistible Force totally swept me up in a rush of action and sexy romance. The quick of it is that James has been searching for his missing partner, a K-9 named Bogart, and he's finally found him! Only thing is...Shay swears the pooch is hers! He was turned over at a kill shelter and she adopted him. A little growly exchange and he's taking his partner home but something's niggling and taking another swing by Shay's house he's drawn into her life and a danger that's swirling about her.
I loved these two! And Bogart the pup! They're awesome people and so easy to like. James was just flat out sexy and lickable. I loved his relationship with his pup and seeing him with Shay. And she's crazy strong and working towards pulling her life together. They had crazy chemistry and dayum the sex scenes were insanely hot. Lots of yummy action in the bedroom and just as much outside the bedroom as they try to figure out a threat against Shay and what happened with Bogart's disappearance. It was ALL nicely done and kept me out walking longer than I would usually go since I just couldn't stop listening.
The Narration:
This was my first time listening to Jeffrey Kafer and I really enjoyed him. He's got a sexy voice that was just a little gravely and really did a nice job with all of the parts. I was seriously digging his sex scenes. Yeah. I really was. lol I was a little nervous about how he'd handle the female voices but, while not too feminine, they worked for me too. I did speed the playtime up to 1.5 but that's my typical setting when listening. I'll be listening to more of his narrations without question.
August 27, 2014
Note: I received an eARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid to write this. All opinions expressed are my own.
Irresistible Force by D.D. Ayres was a wild ride. A supposed dog-napping of a K9 Unit dog brought James and Shay together. James may be trying to be a stick by the book kind of cop and Shay may be weary of law enforcement, but they definitely couldn’t deny their chemistry and mutual love for Bogart, the K9 Unit dog.
The chemistry between the two was definitely hot. They argued. They made mistakes. They made up. & Ultimately, they always found they way back to each other even after Shay told James to go away multiple times. Bogart also seemed very much like a person at times, bringing the characters together and lots of humor as well.
The crazy situation they found themselves in was quite farfetched. They were extremely unlucky, both having a self-centered, egomaniac ex that think he/she is above the law. I really didn’t buy into it that much, but I loved Shay’s eventual character development.
One thing that frustrated me personally was the lack of due diligence by law enforcement in Shay’s past. It’s definitely the forensic scientist in me, but gosh, it made me mad. Of course Shay’s past led to Shay’s distrust in law enforcement and more frustration for me as she refused to report many incidents to the police.
All-in-all, D.D. Ayres wrote an interesting story with some great main characters. I’d give Irresistible Force 3.5 stars overall. I’d highly suggest this read for anyone that loves a romance involving slightly broken characters, a love interest in law enforcement, and dog lovers.
Irresistible Force by D.D. Ayres was a wild ride. A supposed dog-napping of a K9 Unit dog brought James and Shay together. James may be trying to be a stick by the book kind of cop and Shay may be weary of law enforcement, but they definitely couldn’t deny their chemistry and mutual love for Bogart, the K9 Unit dog.
The chemistry between the two was definitely hot. They argued. They made mistakes. They made up. & Ultimately, they always found they way back to each other even after Shay told James to go away multiple times. Bogart also seemed very much like a person at times, bringing the characters together and lots of humor as well.
The crazy situation they found themselves in was quite farfetched. They were extremely unlucky, both having a self-centered, egomaniac ex that think he/she is above the law. I really didn’t buy into it that much, but I loved Shay’s eventual character development.
One thing that frustrated me personally was the lack of due diligence by law enforcement in Shay’s past. It’s definitely the forensic scientist in me, but gosh, it made me mad. Of course Shay’s past led to Shay’s distrust in law enforcement and more frustration for me as she refused to report many incidents to the police.
All-in-all, D.D. Ayres wrote an interesting story with some great main characters. I’d give Irresistible Force 3.5 stars overall. I’d highly suggest this read for anyone that loves a romance involving slightly broken characters, a love interest in law enforcement, and dog lovers.
August 3, 2014
Shay Appleton is being stalked by her ex-boyfriend. He doesn't seem to get the word no. She got a dog to keep her company and for her own protection. Soon she realizes the dog is trained and too smart to be a stray.
Officer James Cannon is missing his cop partner, Bogart. He tracks him down to Shay's house. Not knowing how she got his dog in the first place, he proceeds with caution.
The first meeting of these two was electric. They are both upset and fighting to keep Bogart.
James knows she's hiding something and it seems like his dog wants to stay to protect her. The more James looks into Shay's life the more he knows he must protect her as well.
I like James. He was all alpha, smart and caring. He loves his dog. Once he realized Shay was in danger, he did anything in his power to keep her safe.
Shay, I had problems with. Instead of asking for help when she needed it, she kept of letting the harassment continue. James was willing to defend her but she didn't make things easy for him.
Let's not forget about the dog Bogart. He stole so many scenes. I wished he was real.
Overall, I liked the story, it was fast paced. Great for an afternoon at the beach.
"Her very own Avenger"
3/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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Officer James Cannon is missing his cop partner, Bogart. He tracks him down to Shay's house. Not knowing how she got his dog in the first place, he proceeds with caution.
The first meeting of these two was electric. They are both upset and fighting to keep Bogart.
James knows she's hiding something and it seems like his dog wants to stay to protect her. The more James looks into Shay's life the more he knows he must protect her as well.
I like James. He was all alpha, smart and caring. He loves his dog. Once he realized Shay was in danger, he did anything in his power to keep her safe.
Shay, I had problems with. Instead of asking for help when she needed it, she kept of letting the harassment continue. James was willing to defend her but she didn't make things easy for him.
Let's not forget about the dog Bogart. He stole so many scenes. I wished he was real.
Overall, I liked the story, it was fast paced. Great for an afternoon at the beach.
"Her very own Avenger"
3/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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