Head First

Bennett Security #2

by Hannah Shield

He's protecting his former flame...but can he resist falling for her?

Lana is about to begin the most important trial of her prosecuting a murderer who's long evaded justice. But her sexy star witness keeps catching her eye. Even worse? They share a history. Years ago, they spent three incredible nights that she still can't get out of her head.

Max Bennett hasn't been able to forget about Lana, either. But he has a rule. No more than three nights with any woman. Ever. This soldier-turned-executive has always made a better problem solver than a boyfriend.

When a faceless stalker threatens Lana, Max will go to any lengths to protect her. The real challenge? Trying not to fall for her.

This second-chance romance features steamy flashbacks, courtroom drama and heart-pounding danger! Each book in the Bennett Security series can be enjoyed as a standalone.


Advance Praise for HEAD

"This is both an edge of your seat action story and a rip your heart out intense love story!" Viper S., Goodreads. ★★★★★

"It’s filled with intense moments, powerful moments, sexy moments, angsty moments and genuinely real moments. I was on the edge of my seat so many times while reading I think I actually bit some of my nails." Susan, Goodreads. ★★★★★

"I loved Max and Lana. I first noticed their relationship in book one, and I needed to know more about their history! This book did not disappoint." Mandy, Goodreads. ★★★★★

"The story is great - the sizzling chemistry between Max and Lana is palpable." Victoria, Goodreads. ★★★★★

"Another great suspenseful romance by Shield." Cathryn, Goodreads. ★★★★★

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Second Chance, Suspense, Contemporary, Ebooks, Military Romance

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2024

About the author

I write suspenseful romance with pulse-pounding danger, fun & flirty banter, and tons of heart (plus spice!). Both a Californian and a Texan in my past, I now live in the Colorado mountains with my family.

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Second-Chance Romantic Suspense, and this is the second book in the Bennett Security series. I have read and reviewed the first book in this series, and I think this book can be read as a standalone even if I really loved the first too. I had to pick this book up right after I finished the first book, and I loved this book just like I loved the first book. A lot of the characters in this book were in the first book, and I really loved getting to know some of the characters more. There were flashbacks throughout this book showing the two main characters first very short romance. I thought that the two main characters in the first book had a ton of chemistry, but the two main characters in this book had even more. The romance and rebuilding their love was the main thing in this book, but there was suspense and a little action too. I loved this book so much, and the characters in this series are just so great. I cannot wait to see what the third book in this series brings. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Diana Road Books) or author (Hannah Shield) via Booksirens, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to see Lana and Max would be getting their own book after reading Aurora and Devon in book one of Bennett Security! Lana is the assistant DA and Max is Aurora’s older brother, who owns Bennett Security. They had history briefly ten years ago, but things ended in a complicated way, and now they have a distant friends relationship. I really loved Lana and the way her work as DA was featured in the book. Heather Barnes died in 1998 and it was Bennett Security who helped get the evidence needed to apprehend the wealthy young man accused of murdering her and finally bring a 20-year-old cold case to trial. The trial work was great and the pacing and developments of the case were top notch. There’s also a stalker plotline that was chilling. Max and Lana had chemistry ten years ago and still do now, but old hurts are holding Lana back, and it’s hard to blame her because while Max can be a great protector and always puts his family first, he also has a history of one-night stands and has never had a long-term relationship. Max won me over in the end however, and I loved the super romantic scene with him and Lana at the beach especially. And the steamy moments in this one are HOT so be sure to read this book with a glass of lemonade nearby, whew! This is a great romance that is part military romance, part legal thriller, and just a great read! I’m so excited for book three!

I received a complimentary copy of Head First as one of its beta readers. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Stephanie Valerio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another one of those books I couldn’t put down. Great story, perfect level of spice, and a lot of excitement!

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is both an edge of your seat action story and a rip your heart out intense love story!

Lana and Max have known each other since forever. She was the babysitter and de facto sister to his much younger sister, Aurora. Their first brush with romance was all wrong in the timing, but boy oh boy, did it light a fire that refused to burn out.

Now Assistant District Attorney Lana has to rely on private investigator Max as the key witness in the biggest case of her career. Only their past threatens to derail not only the case, but any chance of rekindling the feelings they've never been able to let go of.

The author brilliantly segues between the present day and their first go round ten years earlier. The book is about 3/4 in the present, but the glimpses we get of the past are perfectly placed for maximum emotional impact. I'm not usually a fan of flashbacks, but it was exquisitely executed here.

Just when their romance is taking root, they're blindsided by a master manipulator. I've never before read a romance where the breakup scene is also where they first admit their love for each other, but surprisingly, I can't see it happening any other way considering what they were dealing with. It was heartbreaking all around, yet completely in character for both Max and Lana. The final shocking twist wasn't a complete surprise to me, but it was very well written and brought a very satisfying end to the whole ordeal.

Max and Lana do get a wonderful HEA after all the dust settles, and I was thrilled to get a peek at the setup of the next book. I don't know how the author is going to pull off that very unlikely pairing, but after thoroughly devouring both the first book in the series and now this one, I know I can count on this author to pull a few rabbits out of her hat to tell her stories.

If you like contemporary romantic suspense and/or legal thrillers, you owe it to yourself to read this outstanding story. And if you haven't already, pick up the first one while you're at it. They are both so, so, good and I can't recommend them highly enough. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[CA Portnellus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Head First is the second book I have read in the Bennett Security series by Hannah Shield. I enjoyed it almost as much as the first. There is action, heat, lots of sexy innuendos, and come hither looks before Max Bennett, and Lana get together. Max, a former military officer, owns a high-end security business with guards, personal bodyguards, and computer security systems; they aim to keep their high-profile clients safe no matter the cost or the problem.

However, Lana is a trial attorney for a scandalous murder and organized crime syndicate case. Max's company is hired to secure the witnesses and the accused criminal but soon that includes watching Lana. They attempt to keep their internal emotions on a leash while working together.
Most of the story is plausible, with the mystery of several factions fighting each other and various attempts to thwart the processes of the law. The reader is unsure who is attacking who, and some genuinely dubious persons might be double-dealing or on the prowl. But, mostly, the premise is to stop anyone involved in the murder trial, keeping the crime syndicate faultless. Unfortunately, too many innocent people in the crosshairs must be saved.

Max and Lana have a long-time relationship (friends to lovers, back to business friends), but their relationship is currently only on the surface, with their private turbulent seas hidden.
Events and attacks bring these two beautiful people together, and soon the heat is on!
Carefully crafted, nicely orchestrated story arcs keep the reader moving through the wild ride.
Hot scenes heat up the night and fog the lenses letting us forget that Max and Lana did not want to be involved or risk their hearts again.
Characters in the previous book and the next are well placed and keep the interest. The books are stand-alone but start with the first, Hands Off, then Head First, followed by Hard Wired.

I received an advance review copy for free. Therefore, I offer this review voluntarily.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lana was a reasonable lawyer with a likable personality. She got Max to help her solve a cold case murder and got his help solving a stalker problem. In the middle of all that mess, she also got him to realize that he loved her. Smart girl. On the other hand, empathy for Max’s character was harder to come by.

So, the guy can cook, is good in bed, and owns his own company. What more can a girl ask for? Max is the kind of guy every girl should stay away from. He’s a total commitmentphobe. Lana and Max had three days together when she was in college. He remained in the periphery of her life because of his sister, her best friend, but he never once spoke about their three days together. Then he went off to have a life that included countless other women that he treated the same way. His POS behavior was a major turn off. Did he redeem himself? Yes. Lana made him work to earn her trust. I liked their HEA.

West Oaks along with all its colorful characters is worth a visit. Lana, Max, and their supporting characters were well developed and interesting. I look forward to Sylvie’s story. I’m wondering how she is going to balance her attraction to bad boys with her career.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[samantha • insomniabungalow • · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so I genuinely think I can't get behind the whole friends to lovers/loved each other for a long time type of books. I only managed to get 62% of the way through.
However, the plot, characters and the spice were well written, and maybe at some point I will finish this. The problem may have just been me, I just wasn't hooked - which is why I wanted to leave this review.
Readers who are into this type of story, in my opinion, will enjoy the story.
A second chance/acquaintances to lovers, both MCs (dual POV) are like angsty, playing hard to get, secretly in love with each other vibe. Forced proximity thrown in, MMC runs a security firm, ex military and FMC works at the DAs office. FMC is being stalked, MMC steps in to help, also, he is her best friend/foster sister's brother. So, there's that. I'm usually into all these tropes, but the book just didn't work for ME.
Will try again, or try other books by H.S in the future!

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the strong, well-developed characters and storyline in this book. The added suspense makes it even more riveting and enjoyable to read. Lana is a strong female character. Smart, sexy, confident and dedicated to her job as Assistant District Attorney. An upcoming trial is the most important one of her career so far, and she is determined to finally put a cold-blooded murderer away for a crime he committed decades ago. This case has become personal to after investing so much of her time investigating it with the help of Max Bennett, an ex soldier now security expert and a old friend. Max is sexy as heck, rather arrogant and a real commitment phobe . He is also very dedicated to his business and very capable and skilled in offering security and protection. He was the one who found the evidence that could finally put the murderer away. Max is also a huge distraction to Lana during a time when she needs to be laser focused. She can’t forget the few nights of passion they shared years ago, nor can she stop the fierce attraction she still feels toward him, though she has learned to keep a tight rein on it. Working closely on this case isn’t helping matters, nor is the way Max steps up to protect to her when it becomes evident she has a stalker. Max can’t forget their passionate nights either, but his three night then done rule is not one he is willing to break. At least he wasn’t, before now. Could the close proximity, the danger and really seeing Lana for who she is change his mind about commitment? Will he even get the chance to claim a future with Lana?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Received ARC for honest review

Yesss. Max and Lana are everything. I absolutely loved Devon and Aurora’s story and was looking forward to reading this second book. It was less action than I anticipated but nothing short of a great story. Hannah Shield does a great job at keeping the suspense and keeping the story flowing without redundancies. A lot of times, it is easy to guess and/or it's done poorly but Shield keeps it interesting. Max and Lana, unlike Devon and Aurora, already have a history together. I like that the history isn’t laced with a whole lot of complication. It’s black and white. Sometimes too much complication takes away from the story and the character development but that isn’t the case here. There’s a simple reason why they weren’t in a relationship in the past but that doesn’t take away what they feel for each other. They both bring out the best in each other. It’s also different that they are somewhat significantly older than Aurora so this isn’t like a sister’s best friend type of deal. The bond that Max and Lana have with each other is something that has been rooted deep in the past but now it has an opportunity to flourish and grow. They complement each other so well - with Lana’s fiery personality and Max’s attentiveness. This is a great series and I can’t wait to see more. I also like the set up for Damien and Sylvie’s story too and am extremely excited to see how that plays out. 😃

[Judith Miguel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good series!!
Lana is about to begin the most important trial of her career: prosecuting a murderer who has long evaded justice. But her sexy star witness keeps catching her eye. Even worse? They share a history. Years ago, they spent three incredible nights that she still can't get out of her head. Max Bennett hasn't been able to forget about Lana, either. But he has a rule. No more than three nights with any woman. Ever. This soldier-turned-executive has always made a better problem solver than a boyfriend. When a faceless stalker threatens Lana, Max will go to any lengths to protect her. The real challenge? Trying not to fall for her.
This book is engaging and full of action-pack moments. The sexy times are amazing and the dialogs smart and witty. Max is an acquired taste. It’s a bit overbearing and intense. Lana is smart and resilient. She’s been in love with him since forever. They are really good together. I liked the first book better but this was really good too. I also enjoyed the side characters a lot and the witting was really great. I’ll be waiting for Sylvie and Dominic’ story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in The Bennett Security series and it is Lana and Max's story and it is definitely a must read. Lana and Max have history as they spent three special night's together but Max doesn't do relationships or commitments and even though they can't seem to forget there time together or each other neither will go there and upset the status quo. When Lana who is a assistant district attorney has a stalker because of the case she is on it is Max who is a security expert is determined to protect Lana himself regardless of the situation and how close that they will have to work together. The chemistry between Lana and Max was so strong but the more time that they spend together the stronger and more intense it grows but will Max eventually realise that Lana is.worth taking a chance on as she is his happy ever after or will be be stubborn and miss out on a second chance and something special. Wow I absolutely love this book and series as the characters and storyline pulled you in right from the start and kept your attention throughout and I couldn't put it down as it was so addictive and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy and suspenseful second chance romance. In this second book of the Bennett security series, Max
Bennett and Lana Sharpe revisit their brief sexual past of ten years ago.

Max keeps a ‘Rule of Three’ in his sexual encounters to keep things from getting emotionally messy. No more than three nights with any woman. He still wants Lana ten years after their one weekend together. Lana was his sister’s babysitter/pseudo big sister/best friend so she’s remained in his life and just out of reach. He is the CEO of Bennett Security and is super protective of those he cares about, so when Lana tells him she has a stalker he moves her into his apartment to protect her.

Lana is a kick button Assistant DA who is getting ready to try a murder trial on a cold case over 20 years old. She is determined to see Justice served, but is more than a little concerned by the apparent stalker who has been bothering her.

These two characters are equally matched and have secretly longed each other, though neither ever thought anything would come of it. The sexy suspense of their story is captivating and entertaining. This is a well written second book in a fantastic series.

I received a free ARC from the author and Siren Books; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting story in the Bennett series where the owner Max is central.

Max seduced his sister's babysitter, Lana, 10 years ago. After 3 nights he went back to his mission in the army but their nights he never forgot.
10 years later Max had started Bennett Security, the top private security company in their region. As an investigator he'd worked together on a handful of cases with the District Attorney for West Oaks County.
Lana is assistant DA and has opened a cold case in which she wants a rich man to be convicted based on the clues Max has found.
Working with him evokes old feelings. But both are focused on their work and relationships didn't work for them. Who says they can do it now?

In addition, a stalker is active who targets Lana. His threats get creepier and Lana and Max can't figure out his identity. But he's getting closer and closer...

A beautiful story with a strong female lead in Lana.
The well-trained, attractive Max shows a vulnerable side.
The tension in this book is built up well in both the romantic side and the suspense side.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lana is at the pointy end of a major murder trial. She can’t wait for this murderer to get the justice he deserves. Can the attraction with her star witness whom she has had a fling with in the past or a stalker ruin what she has worked so hard for? Max enjoys spending time with Lana, wants to be there for her, but he has a rule that he lives by in terms of attachments and Lana has already reached his limit. Will he be able to stay strong where she is concerned? Does he even want to?
Another great suspenseful romance by Shield. I have read the first book in the series, and therefore couldn’t wait to read this, however it would also be a great stand alone read. The characters were authentic and it was easy to invest, not only in the protagonists relationships, but in their lives. The plot moved quickly and kept me thoroughly engaged through the text. I can honestly say that now I’m bummed that I’ll have to wait for the next in the series to be released. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing sequel to “Hands Off”. An exciting story with engaging characters that will keep you involved and wanting more. Ten years ago, Max Bennett spent three beautiful nights with Lana Marchetti. She loved him and hoped this meant a beginning for them, but Max had to return to military duty. He shouldn’t have spent that time with Lana, but she was and is a temptation that he can’t deny. Lana is now an assistant district attorney and Max the owner of Bennett Security. He was able to locate a crucial piece of evidence that might finally get justice for a woman who was murdered. When the defense attorney targets Lana and her relationship with Max, the case begins to fall apart. It seems Lana has a stalker and Max is determined to protect her, he loves her, but who would gain by destroying the case and allowing a murderer to go free? Hot romance and danger as Lana and Max will never give up on the case or each other. I look forward to the next book in this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Floraljoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complex and entertaining:
I really enjoyed this second chance romantic suspense. The story progressed smoothly with a good mix of drama, steamy romance and suspense. There were plenty of twists and a complexity to the plot that surprised and entertained me right up to the end.
Max and Lana had shared a brief encounter when they were young and whilst both still fantasised about their time together, they were convinced they could never be together. I enjoyed seeing the changes that took place in their lives and was cheering them on from the sidelines.
This was the second book in the series and to get a fuller reader experience, I'd recommend reading them in order however it could technically be read as a standalone. I have enjoyed getting to know this group of friends/coworkers and I am eager to see what happens in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lana and Max have a complicated relationship. They've known each other for years and his little sister, Aurora, is like a sister to Lana in addition to being her best friend. Lana is the assistant district attorney and Max has helped her solve a cold case. Now it's about to go to court. And she has a stalker. Then to further complicate matters, the defense attorney is a sleaze bag who tries to get the case thrown out by claiming bringing unfounded claims against Lana.

There's plenty of suspense as the trial moves along and the stalker escalates. In the meantime, the attraction between Lana and Max becomes more difficult for them to ignore, especially when they are forced into close quarters. Max may seem cold hearted with his "rule of three nights" but there is an explanation from his high school days. When the action really heats up, you won't be able to put the book down until the conclusion.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

After devouring Hands Off, I had to get my hands on Head First. I like the strength of the female leads; the suspense is addictive, and an overall enjoyable read.

As suspected in the first book, Lana and Max have a little more to their history; this is their story. Lana is the brilliant, confident, dedicated Assistant District Attorney. Her upcoming trial is causing her headaches, mainly the opposing council. This trial could be career-defining. Max as her private investigator on the case, is vested as well.

While the first book is action-packed, this one is more cerebral, and the suspense is at the forefront. However, the story still flows, keeping my interest.

If this is the first time looking at this author, while the book stands alone, this reader recommends backing up and starting at the beginning.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Inishowen Cailín · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the first book in the series I was excited to read Max's story next. He is protective and bossy but Lana is very independent and handles him really well. Max isn't completely likeable in this book because of the way he discards women and I could understand why Lana would be wary. However, after ten years it was definitely time for him to grow up and admit how he felt about Lana. Their romance was hot and the mystery was intriguing. I felt that the stalker could have been a bit more threatening or more escalation to give her a real reason to hole up at Max's for the duration. There wasn't much suspense after she moved in with Max. The story is mainly centred on their romance at this point. The ending is suspense-filled and exciting.
The Bennett Security team is made up of a lot of likeable and interesting characters and I can't wait to read more of them as the series progresses.

[Viktoria Hergovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Head First is book #2 in the Bennet Security series by Hannah Shield. It can be read as standalone, but I think you would enjoy the previous book too.

Max Bennet is a former soldier and owns a security company. When he poses as a witness in one of Lana's most important trials of her carreer, they think they can keep everything friendly and professional. But when Lana becomes threats by a stalker, Max can't keep his distance.

Will they accept their true feelings?

Both characters are strong and very likeable. The story is great - the sizzling chemistry between Max and Lana is palpable. I really liked, that there are flashbacks in the pairs history - it gives the reader more insights and understanding.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very much like the first in this series. Lana is an assistant DA pursuing a murderer, and the judge and defense attorney seem to be conspiring against her. She hired a private investigator, Max Bennett, head of Bennett Security, who found the last piece of evidence to convict the killer.

Meanwhile, Max and Lana shared a passionate interlude 10 years ago, and neither has forgotten. As they work together and threats to Lana mount into danger, they fall in love again.

Their passion is lovely and spontaneous. The couple glows with happiness when they are not fighting off the murderer. The villain takes his toll, but they survive, and Lana is braver than she has ever been before. Great story with lots of action!

I received an advance review copy for free and left this review voluntarily.

[Terri Zumbrook · Rating 4 out of 5]

HEAD FIRST was romantic and suspenseful. It attracted my eye because I like both romances with lawyers, and those with private security firms. In this case it gave Max the chance to release his possessive and protective tendencies and be Lana’s hero.

Lana has that attitude that she doesn’t need help or protection. She’s a good character except when she decides not to tell anyone about threats, phone calls, etc,

The second chance romance part of the story requires a bit of a dip into the past. Shield made the backstory have minimal interruption to the main event.

For a first series, Bennett Security has all the elements of a high tech headquarters, highly competent (and straddling the fence of legal) researchers, guards and support personnel.

I plan to read other books in this series because I read this advanced copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I liked Lana and could understand Max - eventhough he was overbearing in book 1. I grew to love him in this book. We get glimpses of their past as we travel through the present. Max is helping with Lana's case and things are getting complicated.

Eventhough I saw trouble coming, my mind was blown as secrets are revealed. I enjoyed the honesty Lana and Max share, eventually. Knowing some one for so long puts your relationship on a different level, even though they have some serious things to sort out. We get more of Aurora and Devon as well, which was great.

The book was easy to read and still exhilarating. The twists and turns kept me guessing and the ending was sweet and well earned. I am so excited to dive into book 3.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this second book in the Bennett Security series. It’s filled with intense moments, powerful moments, sexy moments, angsty moments and genuinely real moments. I was on the edge of my seat so many times while reading I think I actually bit some of my nails. 😬 And at the same time I couldn’t stop reading. Max and Lana are such great characters. Both strong and independent in their own right, but completely steamy and interconnected when they fuse together. I don’t usually enjoy books that do several flashbacks but with their past history the flashback chapters totally enhanced their story. Hannah really knows how write such depth into her characters and storyline and she really knows how to pull the emotion from her readers. Well done again. Highly recommend this series.

[Dawn's Diary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful second-chance romance. Max and Lana had incredible chemistry and a deep bond that had been established in the past, but it now had the opportunity to blossom. Loved the flashback which gives more insight into their past and the tension between them. Lana's strong personality and Max's attentiveness complement each other perfectly. This story had a perfect balance between their romance and the rebuilding of their relationship as well as the suspense and action. The sexual scenes were fantastic, and the dialogue was entertaining. Overall, a wonderful book that had me invested from beginning to end. I'm excited to continue the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sue Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great second book in the ‘Bennett Security’ series. This is a stand-alone story about Max (head of Bennett security) and Lana – the local ADA. You don’t have to have read the first book in the series, but Max’s sister Aurora & her partner Devon (whose story is told in the first book) do come into this novel. I really enjoyed this romantic thriller. The twists and turns in the plot keep you guessing, as well as the ‘will they/won’t they’ nature of Max & Lana’s relationship which began ten years previously and finally erupts with satisfying chemistry and steam! There are some ‘flash-backs’ to their initial encounters which put their present attitudes to commitment into context, giving the book some added depth. A good read that kept me hooked, and eager to read the next book in the series.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**

This is the second book of the series (and author overall) I've read and I have to say, it's a solid read! A second-chance and friends to lovers heartfelt story that spans over a decade and a half between Lana and Max did not disappoint. Their story is different in the sense that both main characters are strong-headed individuals that have always put work first but still have their core values very much ingrained such as their loyalty, their strength and their perseverance towards their goals. It was a refreshing read that didn't change them as the book went on, as so mnay other books do.

I would definitely recommend and am looking forward to the next book!

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in Shield's Bennett Security series but can be read as a stand alone - which is good since I missed book 1 (Hand's Off). I found this was both a sweet and steamy second chance romance. Well written with good storyline and flow throughout. I loved these main characters - Lana and Max. These two have a past that is seemingly over until Lana (an assistant DA) becomes stalked. Max is determined to protect her and since chemistry was never the problem between them - it soon is something neither can deny. Will Max be able to keep from falling for her?!? Great dialogue, action and balance. Can't wait for more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Leisel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Max Bennett, owner of Bennett security and Lana the new Assistant DA and defacto sister to Max's younger sister Aurora.

This wonderfully entertaining and romantic story of Max and Lana picks up after their interactions from book one, Hands Off, where we saw the true hero that Max is when it comes to those he loves. But his relationship with Lana is one that crosses his own boundaries but one that is worth breaking and fighting for.
The story holds a great balance of romance, suspense and mystery filled with emotionally charged characters any reader will come to love and rally behind for finding their happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lana and Max’s story is so engaging, with the sweet moments, the throwbacks and the suspense, that you can’t help but alternate the smiles with the gasps as you turn pages. You meet them both on the fist book and you can already tell the chemistry will be off the charts. It is exactly that and more. Lana has an iron will and very much her own mind which is precisely what Max needs. While they work to prosecute a murder, they also bring forward the relationship that they were both too afraid to have. Great book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.