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Never catch feelings for your mark—Con Artist 101

Logan has been running cons since he learned to walk. He’s no amateur, but every time the card shark gets near sassy spitfire, Drew Miller, his plans go off the rails. If he doesn’t want his sister wearing orange for the next decade, he’ll have to trick Drew into impeding the recovery of her father’s stolen artwork.

Drew can’t stand Logan Cash, even if he does rock a leather jacket like James Dean. And, okay, his World Series of Poker win is kind of cool. She may have warmed up to him if he didn’t spill coffee all over her fashion illustrations, destroying her shot a winning a contest that would accelerate her career.

Logan’s morally gray soul doesn’t flinch when he’s tasked with conning Drew. But when he finds out the person threatening to ruin his sister’s life is coming after Drew next, he’s pivots from bad guy to protector. If she learns the truth about Logan, she’ll want nothing to do with him. He knows he’s no good for her, but he’s in too deep to walk away. Can he make things right with Drew without sacrificing the deal that will save his sister?

378 pages, ebook

Published April 5, 2024

42 people are currently reading
218 people want to read

About the author

Mary Cain

5 books90 followers

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5 stars
88 (59%)
4 stars
49 (32%)
3 stars
10 (6%)
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0 (0%)
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
Profile Image for Smut Cartel.
257 reviews30 followers
June 4, 2024
Logan’s morally gray soul doesn’t flinch when he’s tasked with conning Drew. But when he finds out the person threatening to ruin his sister’s life is coming after Drew next, he’s pivots from bad guy to protector.

Good banter gets me every time, and this didn't disappoint!
Drew and Logan have instant chemistry, but I think what makes them more appealing is the constant banter and wit with each other.
I love the mixture of banter, romance, mystery and spice!

Tropes:
- He falls first
- Morally grey MMC
- Forbidden love
- Sassy FMC
Profile Image for SazziesWorld.
62 reviews46 followers
March 26, 2024
~ARC~
This was such a good book. I could not put it down. I would love to see where their story goes next. If you like a book with a sassy FMC this is it. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Profile Image for Ashley Wallace.
127 reviews5 followers
April 2, 2024
Firstly thank you so much to the author for sending me this ARC to read and review ❤️ I really enjoyed this book!

Logan (MMC) is running a con on Drew (FMC) to learn who stole Drew’s father’s painting to pay off a debt for his sister, BUT Drew is not what Logan expected her to be. She’s such a strong, sassy, and determined person who just doesn’t want to give Logan the time of day. That is until Drew needs a favor from Logan.

From there our main characters find themselves undeniably attracted to each other and we have the start of a complicated, spicy, and banter filled romance.

I absolutely loved Drew’s character. She is an FMC who takes no shit but also had a very vulnerable inner monologue.

If you like a bad boy MMC who falls first and only has a soft spot for his woman then you’re like me and you’ll love Logan ❤️

My one and only critique is some of the slang used in the first bits of the book feels awkward and a bit dated if this book is supposed to be set in current day, but that slang only appears maybe in the first 25% of the book.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: bad boy with a soft spot for FMC, he falls first, and forbidden love
Profile Image for Shannon Heck.
704 reviews
March 27, 2024
Logan and Drew clash from the first moment they meet, but Logan is antagonizing her on purpose because Drew is part of his con. It doesn't take long though and Logan doesn't see Drew as a con anymore. All he wants to do is protect her and figure out how to make their relationship real. Drew is very career driven and will take some more convincing, but Logan is very persuasive!

I loved Hustle! The banter between Logan and Drew was fantastic, and I really enjoyed how their relationship unfolded. It went from enemies to lovers in a natural and engaging way. There was also an interesting supporting cast, and a couple of characters could have fun books of their own. Logan and Drew get their HEA and don't need a sequel, but it would be fun to see them in another character's book! Drew was a strong FMC, but it would have been so easy to make her the victim in this book. However, she started to figure out what was going on and took charge of her own life and turned the circumstances around. Everything just unfolded perfectly. No complaints from me! This is a solid 5 star book!
Profile Image for Caitlin Hughes.
26 reviews5 followers
April 12, 2024
Spicy? YES
Enemies to lovers? YEP
He falls first? OH YEAH

Logan is a poker player turned con man looking out for himself and his family. Until his next Mark just happens to be Drew. A sassy, smart mouthed fashion queen who makes Logan forget what he’s really in town for.


I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC ebook for Hustle and ATE. IT. UP.

This book definitely deserved all 5 stars ⭐️ from me 🥳

Profile Image for Tishana Wright.
530 reviews45 followers
April 7, 2024
Hustle was a great read.

Logan is running a con on Drew (since she is his mark), but everything isn’t as it seems to him, eventually leading to him seeing Drew in a whole new light. Eventually, emotions starts to feel real, but how can a relationship happen when the beginning was based on secrets and lies?

I absolutely loved the dynamic between Logan and drew. The banter, sassy attitude, connection, chemistry and of course the bit of spice thrown into the mix. Mary did a great job with their story and ensuring they got their HEA in the end! I can’t wait to read another one of her books soon!
Profile Image for Aaliyah.
121 reviews25 followers
March 30, 2024
This book was amazing! Drew and Logan were amazing characters and I loved them together. There were so many points in this book where I was like “I know exactly what is going to happen” well I didn’t know. I couldn’t help but to kick my feet while I was reading and smiling stupidly at the pages. Now that I finished I feel like there’s a hole in my heart and I’m so excited for book two. Their banter was amazing and the story felt so real. It wasn’t like other books where you think “this was to obvious, I knew what was going to happen”. I fell in love with the characters and I’m so happy with the ending. One of my favorite quotes were “Being with Logan again was like trying to walk through the spinning tunnel in a funhouse. Every time she took a few steady steps, she lost her balance. She was all discombobulated and dizzy.” I’m so excited to read book two and this author is now on my favorite authors list. 100% recommend!
Profile Image for Stamatina Vatikioti.
166 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2024
I am speechless....literally!and whoever knows me , that says A LOT! I loved that book, i loved every character that surrounded our mcs , i loved every encounter, every action, every word, every inner thought, every guilt or regret. I LOVED THEM Logan and Drew... Going straight to my top 5 couples and into my MUST READ AGAIN BOOKS asap.

Logan is a con artist and vegas poker smth smth, that has to manipulate Drew to gain information about a painting....Information that will save his sister. Drew on the other hand is a designer trying to win her foot on the industry. First encounter of these 2 and they are at each other's throat(or at least Drew is on Logan's). I laughed so hard!

I loooooooved their second "first official" meeting at the cafe, their back and forth was to die for, he is a real flirt, not giving a square about her been annoyed, witty, smartmouthed, confident as it can be, charming( in a very strange way totally captivating), smooth, charismatic and the list goes on and on.

I loved her brother Aubrey he was funny, protective and witty and I'm expecting his book!

Their encounter at her best friend's wedding was chef's kiss... Troughout the book the sexual tension between them, the stealing glances, their hidden smiles(and not), their dance! How could I not fall in love with them. Their comebacks, their wittiness, smart mouths...I felt my heart flatter each and every time they were together. Logan is a cinnamon roll moraly grey(!!!!!) alpha male, who falls head over heels, first of course, with our strong, opinionated, career centered and smart Drew. And he will do everything to protect his woman and be her forever.
Profile Image for Staci.
49 reviews13 followers
January 8, 2025
NEW FAVORITE BOOK!!

I just finished hustle and I am already wishing I could read it for the first time all over again! I absolutely loved Drew, she doesn’t take anyone’s sh*t! I want to be her when I grow up. And then there’s Logan. Ughh. My new number one book boyfriend! I fell in love with these two and their story. It did NOT go down how I anticipated it all would. The storyline and characters were shining stars but that aside the book itself is so well written. It consumed all my thoughts all day long while reading it. Highly recommend!!!!!
Profile Image for Hannah Paley.
150 reviews6 followers
April 5, 2024
I really loved this book. I was expecting it to be a bit darker than it was but wasn’t disappointed because it was so enjoyable anyway. Both Drew and Logan were fun characters to read. Logan was as much cinnamon roll as morally grey. The writing kept me engaged all the way through and I finished it in just a few hours. Fun easy read. Highly recommended.
170 reviews16 followers
April 2, 2024
Rating: 4/5

Characters:

Mary Cain introduces readers to a vibrant and engaging cast of characters in "Hustle." Logan, the charismatic con artist, is portrayed with depth and complexity, his morally ambiguous nature adding layers of intrigue to his character. Despite his flaws, his determination to protect his sister and his growing feelings for Drew make him a sympathetic and relatable protagonist. Drew, the fiery and ambitious artist, is a formidable match for Logan, with her sharp wit and independent spirit. Their dynamic and chemistry leap off the page, driving much of the narrative tension and emotional depth of the story. Supporting characters, such as Logan's sister and Drew's father, add depth and dimension to the story, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding plot.

Themes:

At its core, "Hustle" explores themes of trust, redemption, and the power of love to overcome adversity. Logan and Drew are both flawed individuals with troubled pasts, but their journey towards self-discovery and forgiveness is ultimately a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Mary Cain delves into the complexities of morality and conscience, as Logan grapples with the consequences of his actions and strives to make amends for his past mistakes. Additionally, the novel touches on themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice, as Logan and Drew confront their own demons and fight to protect the ones they love. Throughout the story, Cain offers readers a message of hope and redemption, illustrating the transformative power of love to heal old wounds and forge new beginnings.

Writing Style:

Mary Cain's writing style is engaging and evocative, with vivid descriptions and realistic dialogue that bring the story to life. Her prose is infused with wit, humor, and emotional depth, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their struggles. Cain has a talent for creating authentic and relatable relationships, drawing readers into the emotional journey of her characters with empathy and understanding. The pacing is brisk and the narrative flows smoothly, with well-timed plot twists and revelations that keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Cain's ability to blend romance with suspense and action results in a compelling and entertaining read that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages.

Conclusion:

"Hustle" is a captivating and entertaining romance novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary fiction and romantic suspense. Mary Cain has crafted a compelling story filled with passion, intrigue, and heart-pounding excitement that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. With its engaging characters, thrilling plot, and powerful themes, "Hustle" is a must-read for anyone looking for a love story with a twist. I highly recommend this novel to fans of romance and suspense, and look forward to reading more from Mary Cain in the future.
Profile Image for Kianna K.
199 reviews
April 6, 2024
ARC review ❤️ I liked the combination of a spicy romance and a suspenseful story. Drew was feisty and took no crap, even though she had zero experience with men (kind of an unlikely combo? But it worked). Logan had gotten into some shit (to protect his sister, he's a super sweet and protective brother), but still had a decent conscious and tried to do right by Drew, even though she started as his mark. He fell for her because of her fire and take no shit attitude. They made a good pair with great chemistry.

I didn’t know how the mystery of the stolen painting would turn out, and I wasn't able to predict it. I liked the way it came together. However, one of the mysteries was how it got out of the house (it was even explained how it was just barely too big to fit out the window), but I don't recall that ever being answered. Little plot holes like that get me hung up sometimes.

There were some minor nuances in the writing that I didn't vibe with. Probably not anything that would make me not read this author, but there were parts here and there that didn't flow the best. Primarily, the flow between chapters. Some of the chapters ended ubruptly and the next chapter would start at a weird point compared to the end of the last. Lastly, the ending was quick. They got their HEA, but it was short and just sort of.. ended. It was good, but I could have used a little more romance. But overall, the book was entertaining and didn't have any boring or slow parts.

HEA
Enemies to Lovers
Con artist/mark
Several spicy scenes🌶🌶
Profile Image for Angela Hodge.
399 reviews13 followers
March 29, 2024
Hustle by Mary Cain is fun, sexy and absolutely amazing!!

A special painting has been stolen from Drew, who is a budding fashion designer and daughter of an artist. Drew desperately wants the painting back because it’s all she had left of someone special to her. Enter, con man and poker player extraordinaire, who is a budding photographer and has an uncle who’s more like a father that taught him to con.

Drew and Logan have instant chemistry, the kind that leaves a fire in its wake and makes them want to fight or go to bed! She can’t stand him but can’t stay away and he’s falling hard for his mark.

These characters are great. They have depth, with a good backstory and are easy to love! The banter between Logan and Drew is wonderful and I love that Drew is strong and sassy!

The storyline is well thought out and moves at a consistent, well set pace throughout. It’s woven with love and mystery, so you get the best of both worlds. The spice is good without being over the top.

I really enjoyed this book and recommend this author and novel!
Profile Image for Marlene.
27 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2024
ARC | Hustle | a book that blends romance ❤️ and suspense, and enough spice 🌶️, this is an absolute must-read 📖. From the very first page with the introduction of Logan and his “master plan”, the author hooks the reader with a compelling narrative that keeps us on the edge, impossible to put down😳, eager to uncover what twists and turns lie ahead. 😲

The romantic ❤️ elements are expertly woven into the storyline, adding depth and emotion to the overall plot. ✨ What sets Hustle apart is its ability to balance romance with intrigue. It’s that push and pull attraction when you try to stay away but are inevitably drawn in. 👍🏽

The suspenseful elements is what keeps us, the readers guessing and craving more with each chapter, 🙌🏽 keeping us always engaged and invested in the outcome.

Overall, Hustle is a phenomenal read. ⭐️ It's a book that grips you from start to finish, leaving you wanting more even after you've turned the final page. 📄

If you're looking for a captivating romance with the rigth amount of spice and a lot of intrigue, this book is a perfect choice. 📚
Profile Image for Jordan Fiest.
2,119 reviews31 followers
March 29, 2024
Hustle = Perfection

Lying is never a good way to start any relationship, but Logan was just too hard to resist. I have to forgive him for starting off on the wrong foot. He was protective of the ones he loved and was willing to do anything to ensure their safety.

Drew is a super determined woman that knows what she wants and is working hard on achieving that goal. However, she does kind of have a one track mind. She buries all her feelings in her work.

Together they bring out the best in each other. Seeing true feelings develop between two people as stubborn as Drew and Logan was magical to see.

There is mystery and intrigue involved in the bigger story of who stole the painting. Betrayal and heartbreak also make an appearance. But fear not, happiness is also on the horizon.

This was my first book by Mary Cain and it will not be my last. I will definitely be following for all her releases.
Profile Image for Jess_is_reading_again.
41 reviews2 followers
April 5, 2024
READ IT ... READ IT ... READ IT

I really enjoyed this book it was so good. The banter, The drama, The angst so good. The balance between the MCs was lovely too whatever one dished out the other met and equalled it was very fun to read, I found myself laughing a rather a lot lol.

I also enjoyed the supporting characters that we met through out the story, they had their own intigue but never took over. I hate it when your reading a book and the background characters are more interesting than the MCs.

I found the spice in the story was balanced as well and it was in keeping with the MCs characters the banter they have with each carries over into their 'other activities'. Also the spice was only there when it helped the story or expanded the story.

I can't wait to see where the characters we met in this first book go through the series. I hope we get more from Morgan and maybe Aubrey.

pleasse give this book and this author a chance you will not be disappointed. xxx
Profile Image for smutty.spade.queen.
203 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2024
First, thank you for allowing me to be an ARC. SECOND, I sincerely apologize for misreading when to have this done by as it was my first, so I hope you’ll consider me again in the future.

Now review

I really enjoyed this book. It was different compared to what I normally read, so that was an adjustment for me; however, it grew on me quickly. I love Logan and Drew’s chemistry and the storyline/trope of unintentional love. I also loved how the second he realized he developed feelings, he dropped his “mission”. My heart shattered a few times for Drew, specifically the comment about her messy bun before ballet giving away the fact that she lost her mom. That was rough.

The spicy scenes were 👍🏼🌶️🌶️🌶️. The romance made me melt, especially the second half of the books when Logan accepted his love for Drew.

The plot is good; sorta Oceans 12 vibes I got (which I LOVE).

The only reason I’m giving this a 4/5 is because I struggled with the third person POV but from a dual POV if that makes sense.

Overall, the story, characters, and writing will have me looking into more work of the authors!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
15 reviews
March 27, 2024
Whew! What a read!

I could not put this book down! I absolutely loved the main characters! The chemistry and the story line  *chefs kiss*

I loved that Drew was a tough chick! Seriously, her strength and demeanor was so relatable and realistic. No BS attitude was perfect, no other way for her to be!

Logan Logan Logan, I was worried about you for a minute but you were able to get you ish together in the end.

Each character is so perfectly developed. No filler characters. Each has a purpose and it shows through the process of development. I loved them all.

Closure! I hate books that have SO many open ended stories at the end! While this does leave room for more there is closure which I couldn't have asked for more!

Bravo 👏🏼 thank you for sharing Drew and Logan with us!
Profile Image for Danielle Watts.
176 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2024
This was so fun to read. I couldn't put it down. I read this in one day. I absolutely loved the main characters. I loved that Drew had such a strong personality. Logan's character was perfect, while he may not have been perfect it was hard not to love him as the book unfolded. The mystery subplot was very good. It had twists and turns that I didn't guess. I even really enjoyed the side characters. I'd love to continue reading if there was a book about Logan's sister next! Definitely a must read!
Profile Image for Chelsea Housand.
29 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2025
With half romance and half mystery and wholly Savannah, art scene, PAINTING HEIST, spice, and poker - I really couldn’t find anything more catered towards my interests. The banter is fun, the pacing is uniquely NOT your average romance novel, the twists are exciting, and the characters feel REAL despite the unusual circumstances and atypical back stories.

Between the stolen painting, the will-they-wont-they, and secrets, the pages simply fly by which makes Hustle a GREAT palette cleanser or slump-breaker.

Im definitely eager to continue the series!
Profile Image for Courtney Wood.
54 reviews
March 29, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by Mary Cain, and it certainly won’t be my last! I enjoyed the premise of this story immensely.

Drew is an aspiring fashion designer who is the unknowing mark of Logan, a professional conman. All is falling into place until Logan must pivot into the role of protector to keep the ones he loves safe. Unfortunately his original intent is revealed to Drew and Logan must try to win her back while keeping her, her family, and his sister safe.
Profile Image for Kearstin Ellis.
572 reviews27 followers
April 5, 2024
Wow.

This is a captivating romance novel with some spice.

The bickering between Drew and Logan made the lust/ love so much more admirable

Drew is a strong willed character and hides her pain.

Logan tried to use her for information at first, then quickly realized he could not resist her

Logan uses his “charm” and slight attitude to lure Drew to him while Drew tried to stay strong but eventually gave in to the lust.

This was such a good read, I highly recommend
Profile Image for Marissa.
116 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2024
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

I never thought I’d be one for a con falling for his mark but boy did this book pull me right in. Enter Logan, poker player from Vegas, dedicated brother and protector. Next up Drew, passionate fashion designer and not a fan of Logan…or so we think. Full of snarky banter and steamy fun between these enemies turned lovers.
Profile Image for Jamie Lea  (JmeLea).
Author 1 book10 followers
April 1, 2024
I absolutely loved this story! Feisty, witty and hilarious banter between Drew and Logan grabbed all my attention from the very beginning! There are so many layers and I thought I had it all figured out. I WAS SO WRONG many times. I hope that we get to hear amore from these characters in the future!
Profile Image for Lucy Ballesteros.
138 reviews3 followers
April 2, 2024
The first few chapters were a bit slow for me. It took me a little while to get into it, but by the middle of the book I was hooked. It’s a cute story and I was laughing so much by the end of the book. I love Drew’s personality but I mostly loved how Logan just couldn’t resist her grumpiness. It’s a must read!
Profile Image for Imperfect.reader.
213 reviews15 followers
April 5, 2024
Thank you for the ARC. I really enjoyed this book. Drew is the Mark that Logan needs to achieve his goals. This I couldn't put this book down. There are unexpected turns and twists, expect the unexpected because the story is not predictable in anyway. Drew and Logan characters draw you in for a captivating heart pounding story. If you like suspense and romance this is for you.
Profile Image for Melanie.
652 reviews19 followers
April 5, 2024
Great book! There is chemistry, angst, and the determination to do anything necessary to protect family.
Logan gets his first taste of Drew's sass and temper while standing in line for coffee. He's immediately looking forward to this mark.
Drew is smart. She picks up on things and flips the situation.
These two have a great banter between them, and I loved it!
This was my first book by this author, but I am definitely a fan now!
Profile Image for Jane.
142 reviews
September 24, 2024
So good. Well-written. Plot makes sense. Both MMCs are interesting and have depth to their personalities.

Drew and Logan are officially a favorite couple for me. Their chemistry is insane. Ms. Ambition & Sass meets Mr. You Don’t Scare Me and his charming, devious ways have her falling HARD for him. Her sense of humor had me absolutely cackling at times. Logan is morally grey but on the lighter side. He is so down bad for Drew he can’t stick to his usual con man rules and it’s an absolute blast to watch the two of them fall in love.
Profile Image for Blissful.library.
116 reviews10 followers
March 27, 2024
Enemies to Lovers!

Mary Cain was not kidding when she said this book was Enemies to lovers. Drew HATED Logan. There's banter, there's mystery, there's chemistry, there's spice! This is a great opposites attract read! Good Girl meets bad boy but make it spicy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews

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