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No Good Deed

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No Good Deed...goes unpunished.

Kiya James’ relocation to idyllic Riverton Colorado is disrupted when she discovers a critically wounded man lying in a field near her home. Little did she know that her selfless act to save the man’s life would thrust her into a world of corruption, greed, and danger. As the only witness to the initial attack, and shaken by an attempt on her own life, Kiya is offered refuge with the victim’s family. Together, they struggle to uncover the circumstances that would trigger an unknown assailant to unleash a string of deadly attacks in an otherwise quiet rural ranching community.
Jake McCleary’s world could have been destroyed with a single bullet if it hadn’t been for the quick actions of a stranger. Now, in a desperate attempt to protect her, and his entire family, Jake must fight to defend his home, livelihood, and the woman who is rapidly capturing his heart, against the vicious actions of a criminal that will stop at absolutely nothing to get what he wants. But will they find the answers they need in time, or will they lose everything to the conceit of a madman? And will the bond between his wounded brother and the woman that saved him prove to be too big of an obstacle for Jake to overcome in the pursuit for Kiya’s love?

308 pages, ebook

Published June 26, 2024

6 people want to read

About the author

C.D. Bennett

2 books93 followers
C.D. Bennett is an award-winning author and avid reader. She is a nature lover who enjoys adventurous outdoor activities. Horseback riding, hiking, kayaking or paddleboarding, and swimming are her favorite pastimes. She has even "taken the plunge" with skydiving and scuba diving. She lives in rural Pennsylvania with her family and a menagerie of animal companions. She is currently working on her next book. Be sure to like and follow on Facebook, Amazon & Pinterest (C.D. Bennett) and on Instagram & BookBub (readcdbennett) Reviews and recommendations are also appreciated.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Christina.
49 reviews
May 23, 2024
This book was action packed and an emotional rollercoaster. I read this one straight through and loved every minute of it. This book was obtained through Voracious Readers Only.
177 reviews
April 30, 2024
I love having the opportunity to review books before they are released. This book was awesome. The emotional roller coaster ride you are taken on is mind boggling. The adventure draws you in from the beginning and keeps you riveted. Another, I don't want to put it down book. Enjoy
Profile Image for Kea.
1,098 reviews11 followers
August 2, 2024
NO GOOD DEED by C.D. Bennett

A well written and excellent stand-alone romantic suspense novel! The plot keeps me turning the pages to find out what happens next. NO GOOD DEED has everything—a ranch, cowboys, beautiful countryside, small-town sheriff and romance mixed with danger. Perfect for anyone who loves to read about cowboy romances. Looking forward to the next C.D. Bennett’s book.
Profile Image for Lisa.
132 reviews
May 6, 2024
I really liked this book.  The story flowed and had suspense which came to a satisfying ending.  The main characters were likeable. Even though the couples felt like they got serious really quickly, I enjoyed their dynamic. 
Profile Image for Lindsey's Literary Leanings.
156 reviews10 followers
January 8, 2025
Complex, Gripping, Intriguing
Genres: Contemporary Fiction/Family Drama/Romance/Mystery/Thriller
No Good Deed by C.D. Bennett 🔓
Having just recently moved to a place she thought would provide her with peace and quiet, to enjoy the tranquillity of nature in Colorado’s wide open spaces with her horse, Dax and her Border Collie, Luna, Kiya James unwittingly becomes the soul witness to a crime. Not initially having wanted to get involved with the aftermath, she quickly learns that as the only person to have heard or seen anything, she has no option, but is surprised to find that her bond with the young man at the centre of the offence, and the attachment she forms with his family of siblings who are as concerned with safeguarding her wellbeing as much as she is with theirs, leaves her feeling compelled to help. None of them are prepared for how this will change their lives.
My first observation about this book is that this outstanding, fluent and eloquent novel, most definitely deserves a better cover. One that says something about the warmth of this family, blended by fate or gives some clue to the passion that the author obviously had for telling this story. I realise that independent authors don’t always have the money for creative book covers, but I strongly felt the need to communicate this, as I don’t feel it does the narrative justice. The format is easy to read largely owing to the superb writing in every aspect, grammar, spelling, and the chapters are a good length. 📖
When Kiya initially contacts the emergency services she gives a comprehensive description of the scene and it is clear that she has an extensive knowledge of, or experience in working within a healthcare setting, or maybe just having cared for people previously. It was obvious to me from the start that C.D Bennett has done a great deal of research or already has a great deal of knowledge that is not only apparent in this part of the narrative, but that which she has put into other parts of this book. Kiya came across as a very strong character and for the author to transfer this in to the written word enabling it to come across to the reader so profoundly was impressive. It is evident that Kiya is an intelligent woman, with a mind of her own, and doesn’t suffer fools gladly. 🐎🐕
The instant bond that Dylan clearly felt for Kiya did make me wonder if he had a concussion and had woken up thinking that she was more to him than simply his saviour. A bit of a ‘While You Were Sleeping’ moment. I thought it unusual for him to be immediately as friendly and tactile with Kiya as he was, and for her to be the same in return, but that may be something to do with me being British and slightly more reserved. However, my British stoic stiff upper lip left me when it came to the steamy scenes. This author really knows how write a love scene….I’ll leave that there.♥️
Looking back on my notes, Hillary is very much led by her emotions. Being very upset in the hospital and then again when she finds herself in a threatening situation with Kiya later on in the story. Just as I was taken aback with how familiar Dylan quickly became with Kiya, I suppose I was equally curious about how Hillary could go from not thinking about a person who she had grown up with as anything other than a friend of her brothers, to falling into that person’s arms as soon as they declare an interest. It all seemed to happen a bit quickly for me. However, I really enjoyed the sisterly connection that the three women swiftly cemented , also, the protective nature with which the McLeary brothers treated their sisters, as Kiya inwardly projected, both a blessing and a curse for their female relatives. It was also notable how sensitive the men seemed to be the women’s needs, as shown when Dylan and Jake decide that it would be best if Hillary and Kiya contact Gretchen to update her on the latest happenings.
The very real dialogue between all of the characters is intelligently and perceptively written, particularly the conversation between Jake and Dylan concerning Kiya and the sisterly boost of assurance that Hilly gives Kiya at a time when it is most needed. They are both extremely articulate, and the level of detail in both the dialogue and descriptive text leaves the reader in no doubt of the compassionate level of emotion between the characters or the depiction of their location
The author’s vivid writing brought forth for me, an image of a vast, clean, expensive looking ranch kitchen in which all the McLeary sibling’s gathered for meals. These scenes for me were at the heart of the story. They were so very touching and heart-warming, to the point that you almost felt like you were with them and could smell the food cooking, seeing the comings and goings of the individual characters along with the humorous, playful and natural banter. The author was able to very effectively communicate how close these people were. I would however, have liked some background on them. The mother was made mention of on a couple of occasions but I would have liked to have known more about their parents. I also felt like I struggled to gauge their’s and Kiya’s ages. That would have given me more a sense of what stage of life they were at. I do like to be able to build a back story to the characters about which I am reading. ✍ ☕
The events following the initial incident involving Dylan, the assailants clear intent meant as a warning to Kiya and her new found family are horrifying, especially the first one when Kiya is alone. These are executed well and the drama, plus the emotions of every character are transmitted to the reader with a spectacular degree of clarity and are real ‘edge of your seat’ moments as you are drawn into their world and find yourself increasingly invested in their journeys. 🔥🚔
The men involved in the very wrong doings, I was aware of fairly early on or at least suspicious of, so there was no shock factor in terms of the perpetrators. With that said, C.D. Bennett has created an excellently menacing villain. In my head, I think he probably sounded a lot different to how the author had in mind, but I loved ‘playing’ him. He was so wonderfully evil. The dramatic scenes that enfold leading to the conclusion are heart stopping and intense, especially for poor Kiya. I had to remember to breathe. Once again, in this segment of the novel, the descriptive writing was very powerful and brought you right alongside them watching the horrifying events unfold. 📦 🔪
The story comes to a satisfying conclusion, particularly with Kiya’s first aid skills being brought to the fore once again, the narrative comes full circle. In this book, C.D Bennett has given us a wonderful tale of love, trust and self discovery, giving the underlying message that a lot of us have probably already found…….the ties that bind, aren’t always blood. 🪢
Profile Image for Patricia Baxes.
3,050 reviews30 followers
June 26, 2024
Oh man…what an absolutely kick a$& read! I was hooked from the very first page—and literally had to force myself to put it down to sleep. The storyline is crazy good; the characters play off of each other so well; the plot twists and turns will simply blow you away; and the fantastic HEA encompasses the entire cast of characters. If you enjoy a little romance with your suspense—you definitely will want to add this one to your TBR. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally mesmerized by it!) Grab your copy today! ❤️❤️
Profile Image for READER VIEWS.
5,042 reviews391 followers
June 26, 2024
“No Good Deed” by C.D Bennett is a story about the power of family when a crisis hits home. Kiya is a young woman who has found the perfect place to rent. She is a loner with only her dog Luna and her horse Dax to keep her company. She likes it that way, or so she thought.

While Kiya is out for a ride with Dax, she stumbles upon a crime in action. A man is shot, and two criminals take off without her getting a good look. Kiya’s experience as an EMT allows her to help the victim, a man named Dylan McCleary. When Kiya returns home she is met with bullets through her house. It is after this narrow escape, that Kiya takes safety in the McCleary family home.

The McCleary home is full of brothers and sisters who work together to make their land profitable. Kiya learns she may like having a family and a love match. While she is at the McCleary home, a series of events and the resulting discoveries lead to an investigation and an interesting ending to the turmoil the McClearys dealt with.

“No Good Deed” is a romantic suspense novel that is full of twists and turns you may not expect. It is the roller coaster you do not want to get off. Bennett begins the story with a beautiful description of the setting:

The surrounding hills and valleys were so still and tranquil that the only sounds to be heard were the footfalls of her horse, buzzing insects, and chirping birds.

Readers could never expect what happens next because the tranquil setting is where one could not imagine anything sinister happening.

Bennet’s characters are perfectly displayed in “No Good Deed.” The reader clearly knows who is who. The dialogue and actions make you feel like they are real people, and this could be a true story. Their emotions are vividly expressed and will incite similar emotions in readers.

With clear characters, Bennet builds a plot that readers can easily follow. The author does not drag out the events of the story. A good pace is set at the beginning and followed throughout the pages. There are no confusing events or questionable characters thrown in that could confuse the reader. As the story builds, readers only become more invested in finding out what happens next.

The author has written an action-packed story that leaves readers on the edge after each page.

Her cover art is beautiful and eye-catching. “No Good Deed” by C.D. Bennett is a book for readers who like a lot of suspense and a splash of romance. Be ready to not put this one down.
Profile Image for Jan Sikes.
Author 32 books257 followers
July 7, 2024
I struggled to rate this book fairly, as I loved the storyline AND the characters, but there are some technical issues with the delivery.
Kiya James has rented a farmhouse and loves the wide open spaces for her to explore on the back of her beloved horse, Dax, with her faithful canine at her side. She is a strong female character with a ton of grit and determination.
When she hears gunshots while out riding, she's startled. She overhears two men saying "he's down." So once they leave, she explores and finds a man suffering from a gunshot wound in a neighboring pasture. Of course, she has to render aid.
This begins a wonderful story of how she becomes intertwined with the McCleary family. The mystery is deep and the identity of the shooters unknown, but the plot thickens as the rest of the family along with Kiya are targeted. The must band together for safety.
I love all the characters, but Dylan and Jake were my favorites. It's Dylan who was shot and Kiya saved his life, creating an unbreakable bond between them. But it's Jake who makes her heart ratchet. I loved the interaction between all the McCleary siblings, Dylan, Jake, Cade, Hillary and Gretchen. Together, they run their lucrative ranch and share equally in all the chores. The setting is beautiful, and the author did a great job portraying it. The two biggest problems I have with the delivery of this fantastic story is first of all, a POV issue. The author jumps from person to person switching points of view without scene breaks and oftentimes within the same paragraph. I found this offputting as well as the way the dialogue is written. It is stilted and too formal for regular people talking. Aside from that, I enjoyed every bit of this story as it unfolded! A great mystery with unexpected twists and some wonderful romance.
Profile Image for Alysia Woods.
21 reviews
July 18, 2024
Fans of the TV show "Yellowstone" will enjoy this book! This contemporary fictional romance is set against the backdrop of a family-owned ranch. The story unfolds with the serene beauty of the mountains juxtaposed against the unpredictable twists of fate that shape the characters' lives.

At its heart, "No Good Deed" revolves around the McCleary family, who have owned and operated the ranch for generations. Kiya, a nearby neighbor, is taking a break from her busy life as a nurse to relax near the quiet mountainside. She's renting a cabin from a couple just down the road from the McCleary ranch.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Kiya crosses paths with Dylan McCleary, who's been shot and Kiya works to save his life. In doing so, Kiya is thrust into the danger lurking outside the ranch and the surrounding areas. She becomes the next target of attack and with the insistence of the entire McCleary family, is brought to the family's ranch to try to keep her safe. But will it be enough? Who is targeting the McCleary family? What do they want?

"No Good Deed" intertwines themes of resilience, family ties, and the enduring power of friendship and love in the face of adversity. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and evocative setting, "No Good Deed" leaves readers eagerly anticipating C.D. Bennett's next literary piece.
Profile Image for Sarah Cudlipp.
197 reviews6 followers
July 3, 2024
This was the first book I have read by C.D. Bennett and WOW! I now need more. There is only one other book so far, so I will sit and wait for more to come. But this was such an amazing book that had me hooked from moment one. And it certainly didn't let go. I never had any idea what was going to happen next and couldn't have predicted any of it even if I had tried.

The twists and turns were amazing and I couldn't get enough of the characters. I just wanted to know more. From the moment Kiya found an injured Dylan, the chemistry between these two was off and running. The way they interacted and played off of one another was pure perfection. I just wanted more and more interactions between the two of them. I could read several more books about just the two of them, honestly.

Add in the suspense and the action mixed in with the incredible romance that brews between Kiya and Dylan made this an incredible read. So I will be sitting here, waiting not so patiently for C.D. Bennett's next book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for K.J. Sweeney.
Author 2 books48 followers
July 19, 2024
No Good Deed is an unusual (and yet entertaining) read. It's not quite suspense and not quite romance, although it has plenty of both of these.
The story follows Kiya, a young woman who has recently rented and moved to a farmhouse. She first meets her neighbours when she witnesses one of them being shot and jumps to his aid, saving his life with her first aid skills. She then finds herself drawn into the danger that seems to be stalking this family. In the process she finds herself drawn to one of the brothers.
There's so much going on here and it really is a thrilling ride. Not only is there action, adventure and danger on nearly every page, but were treated to two budding romances. What more could you want?
If there was something that I didn't enjoy so much, it was the sudden shift in point of view. I do enjoy books told from multiple POVs, but these changed mid-chapter and flow with no warning. At times it threw me as to who was thinking this, although it was usually cleared up quickly.
This was a very entertaining and thrilling read. Definitely one to check out.
949 reviews30 followers
March 19, 2025

This romantic suspense book tells the story of a group of people dealing with personal relationships and a mysterious piece of land. As I had written down in my paper notebook while I was reading it: Mitch is puzzled by a woman’s accusations while reflecting on past adventures with friends. When talk of selling the land comes up, he grows curious about a stranger’s interest and decides to dig deeper. Meanwhile, Kiya struggles with fear after an attack, and the group supports each other through tense moments. Blending suspense with personal drama, the story explores trust, safety, and the complexities of relationships.
The book is suspenseful, emotional, intriguing, and romantic, and the main message (at least for me) is that of resilience – this captures the essence of the story, the tension, the character development, and the relationships within the book. There are vivid descriptions and a clear sense of tension, which helps to draw readers into the story.
Profile Image for Keila (speedreadstagram).
2,300 reviews301 followers
March 13, 2025
This gripping tale of courage and resilience immediately pulled me in with its high stakes and emotional depth. I was captivated by Kiya James’ selfless act to save a stranger’s life, unknowingly plunging her into a dangerous web of corruption and greed in the otherwise tranquil town of Riverton, Colorado. Jake McCleary’s struggle to protect his family, home, and the woman he’s falling for added an edge of heart-pounding tension and romance to the story. The mystery surrounding the deadly attacks and the relentless pursuit of answers kept me on the edge of my seat, while the emotional conflicts and budding relationship between Kiya and Jake brought warmth and complexity. This book is a perfect blend of suspense, action, and romance, making for an unforgettable read.

Thank you to the wildrosepress for this book.
Profile Image for Kim Ligon.
Author 6 books32 followers
February 4, 2025
Mystery wrapped in a family saga

This is a marvelous tale of an attempted murder who dun it laced with the McCleary family love and at the heart of it Kiya finding a family when she acts as the good Samaritan. I loved the McCleary siblings: Jake, Gretchen, Cade, Dylan and Hillary and their treated like family Sheriff Mitch. There is danger, action, romance, some heated sexual interludes, and mystery. I hope this is only the first tale of the larger than life McClearys and that Bennett is already penning the next one. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Jill Jemmett.
2,108 reviews45 followers
May 5, 2025
This book was suspenseful and exciting. I loved how close the McCleary siblings were. They all worked together to run their ranch, and to solve the mystery of who shot Dylan. There were quite a few heart pounding twists that kept me wondering what would happen next. The ending was sweet and heartwarming!

No Good Deed is an exciting thriller!

Thank you The Wild Rose Press and Bookinfluencers.com for providing a copy of this book as part of a paid campaign!

Content warnings: gun violence, knife violence, hospital scenes, blood, kidnapping, car accident
642 reviews13 followers
December 22, 2024
I found this author by chance, and the blurb intrigued me so I had to give the book a read.
I loved it. As much as I enjoyed Jake and Kiya's story, I absolutely adored Hilly and Mitch.
Out of the three brothers, Dylan is my favourite. He needs a book!
The story flowed well and kept my interest. The twists and turns in the plot were well done.
I highly recommend if you enjoy romance or mystery. I would happily read more from this author.
Profile Image for Sherry Westendorf.
4,603 reviews23 followers
June 28, 2024
What an awesome read. Just loved it. A book full of intrigue, suspense, twists and turns and then throw in romance and so much more. What a wonderful book. This is one I will read again. To save someone just to find yourself in the middle of a big mess of trouble with that romance thrown in. I very highly recommend it. I received a review copy and voluntarily review it.
Profile Image for Stacie G.
170 reviews6 followers
July 16, 2024
If you are looking for a book full of action then this is the book for you! This is an emotional rollercoaster that you never want to get off!! Kiya James is amazing and she is brought to life in this must read story.
Profile Image for Devons book corner.
1,437 reviews40 followers
July 22, 2024
If you're looking for a book that will take you on a rollercoaster ride, then No Good Deed is the one for you. It's full of suspense, likable characters, and lots of action. I really enjoyed this book, wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next, and would recommend this book to anyone.
Profile Image for Jess.
112 reviews12 followers
June 4, 2025
Such a phenomenal romantic suspense book! Read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down - would absolutely recommend to anyone who loves a good romance book with forced proximity, found family, and danger.
1,656 reviews23 followers
June 4, 2024
rollercoaster
This book is the perfect mix of thriller and romance, I couldn´t put it down for wanting to find out who would win Kiya´s heart in the end.
Profile Image for Donnie Null.
2 reviews1 follower
August 16, 2024
I totally LOVED this book! The characters came alive and you felt like you knew them personally. You instantly became part of the book. Wonderful read.
Profile Image for Nova Null.
48 reviews
August 17, 2024
A wonderful adventure that grabs you from the beginning and keeps you hooked. C.D. Bennett has a way of making you feel like you are a part of her stories. Definitely worth the read.
Profile Image for Raven || The Reader Identity.
1,987 reviews159 followers
April 5, 2025
A thrilling, small town mystery with danger and deceit hiding behind every new twist. Add just a dash of romance and this folks, is a recipe for a fun afternoon read!
Profile Image for lisa jung.
5,684 reviews45 followers
June 22, 2024
I volunteer to read an advance copy from Book Siren.
This was a new author to me, and I am glad I took the chance of reading this book after reading the blurb . I enjoy reading suspense books with a touch of romance and set in a western setting. This book had it all and did not disappoint me.
As a simple act of kindness by Kiya leads to more. A new relationship and a new life. With a great suspenseful story and amazing. characters. You will not be disappointed by this book. If you are looking for a book with suspense and light romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews