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Gems & Gents #3
The Book of Joshua II - Believe (Gems and Gents, #3
While in another country, CIA Operative Joshua Lassiter uncovers a plot targeting the current president of the United States. His loyalty to the country that betrayed him in the past comes to the forefront as he takes action to prevent the treasonous act. He is injured during the course of the mission and now must trust the new administration will rescue him. In-active CIA Operative known only as ROC is called back into duty by the White House. Her mission is two-fold. Bring Joshua Lassiter home, alive. Restore him to the number one weapon in the United States covert arsenal. The mission plunges the two into danger and uncertainty as the plot revels it is the United States military trying to prevent them from reaching the President, by any means necessary. Who do they TRUST? ——- Who do they BELIEVE?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2014
26 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Iris Bolling
55 books414 followersIris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 19, 2014
Finding His Way to Believe!
Three long, hard and agonizing years have passed since the ultimate betrayal took place in the White House. Joshua "Absolute" Lassiter has officially fallen off the grid after losing the woman he loved as part of the sacrifice for peace.
Determined to get back into the thick of his job, Joshua finds himself in a compromising position to the point of no return. So much so, he is now dependent upon the one person he wanted to be.
Iris Bolling has no problem returning her readers back into the turmoil the first book. No. What we didn't expect was the depth of Joshua ' s heart being put on the line time and time again. Well developed characters, lovely cameos by familiar faces of the Heart Series, and the introduction of one character that breaks barriers on her terms, Bolling continues to outdo her last masterpiece page by page. Romantic, suspense, intrigue, humor and honesty are embedded within this novel.
A recommended read for those that love a series that has a surefire #Boom!
Three long, hard and agonizing years have passed since the ultimate betrayal took place in the White House. Joshua "Absolute" Lassiter has officially fallen off the grid after losing the woman he loved as part of the sacrifice for peace.
Determined to get back into the thick of his job, Joshua finds himself in a compromising position to the point of no return. So much so, he is now dependent upon the one person he wanted to be.
Iris Bolling has no problem returning her readers back into the turmoil the first book. No. What we didn't expect was the depth of Joshua ' s heart being put on the line time and time again. Well developed characters, lovely cameos by familiar faces of the Heart Series, and the introduction of one character that breaks barriers on her terms, Bolling continues to outdo her last masterpiece page by page. Romantic, suspense, intrigue, humor and honesty are embedded within this novel.
A recommended read for those that love a series that has a surefire #Boom!
February 10, 2015
ROC.
Joshua Lassiter, meets his match when In-active CIA Operative, ROC is selected by the White House to bring Joshua home. During a captive and rescue operation, a relationship electrical attraction forms between the two. Although Joshua’s mind is as sharp as ever, he is in no physical shape to free himself from his capture’s imprisonment. He’s also not too happy that a female has to see him in a less than his best state and worse, depend on her to get him home alive. He hasn’t even addressed their sexual tension yet.
On the outside, ROC displays her tough side and makes use of skills she had put aside during her in-active time. Assessing Joshua’s medical condition, she put her medical expertise to good use getting him ready for the escape and rough travel home. ROC remains guarded and professional towards Joshua, but buried emotions are being stirred.
As their mission gets underway, they play off each other, deepening their attraction. But always on alert, they uncover a plot involving the U.S. military that put their lives in grave danger.
Romance, action and suspense fuels this storyline. Characters are brought to life within an intriguing plot, another solid entertaining read by author Iris Bolling.
Recommended reading.
Locksie January 23rd 2015
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 5.0*****
Joshua Lassiter, meets his match when In-active CIA Operative, ROC is selected by the White House to bring Joshua home. During a captive and rescue operation, a relationship electrical attraction forms between the two. Although Joshua’s mind is as sharp as ever, he is in no physical shape to free himself from his capture’s imprisonment. He’s also not too happy that a female has to see him in a less than his best state and worse, depend on her to get him home alive. He hasn’t even addressed their sexual tension yet.
On the outside, ROC displays her tough side and makes use of skills she had put aside during her in-active time. Assessing Joshua’s medical condition, she put her medical expertise to good use getting him ready for the escape and rough travel home. ROC remains guarded and professional towards Joshua, but buried emotions are being stirred.
As their mission gets underway, they play off each other, deepening their attraction. But always on alert, they uncover a plot involving the U.S. military that put their lives in grave danger.
Romance, action and suspense fuels this storyline. Characters are brought to life within an intriguing plot, another solid entertaining read by author Iris Bolling.
Recommended reading.
Locksie January 23rd 2015
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 5.0*****
February 28, 2015
Mrs. Iris, done a wonderful job on this book!
After the betrayal of The White House and country Joshua loved so much, he went into self distruct mode. He took every assignment putting his life in more danger than necessary and annihilating his family and friends. He finds himself in a life threatening situation, which calls for someone as powerful and talented as he, only one issue, its a women.
The chemistry between Roc and Joshua sizzles and their partnership while working on a National Security mission is on point.
�
After the betrayal of The White House and country Joshua loved so much, he went into self distruct mode. He took every assignment putting his life in more danger than necessary and annihilating his family and friends. He finds himself in a life threatening situation, which calls for someone as powerful and talented as he, only one issue, its a women.
The chemistry between Roc and Joshua sizzles and their partnership while working on a National Security mission is on point.
�
June 6, 2014
Bittersweet...MY ABSOLUTE is NOW spoken for...that's right MY ABSOLUTE...lol...BOO HOO...LOVED it...ROC is definitely THE ONE for Joshua Lassiter...I wanna be a Lassiter or part of their circle of friends and family...lol...now that I'm all caught up...how long before the next book...on pins and needles ANTICIPATING!! KUDOS Ms. Bolling...thanks for the non-stop ENTERTAINING ride.
January 14, 2023
Joshua had been through so much and it just seemed he would never experience happiness again, nor did it seem like he even want to. He felt he had been betrayed by his country and the women he had finale given his heart to did not choose him. The circumstances cause him to be reckless with his life , all in the name of serving his country This story had me on the edge of my seat . ☺️
This story made me think of a quote” In order to get from what was to what will be ,you must go through what is. My heart broke for Joshua as he struggled with his physical and emotional pain. He had to endure a great deal in order
To return to the “King maker “ he was intended to be. Romans 8:28 comes to mind as well because as all the components in this story start to come together I found myself devouring each page hope his hurt would soon be healed. As for ROC, I Loved her , oh my goodness. She truly knew how to handle Joshua 😂😂. It was about the battle of wills between two very strong willed individuals.
Great story I just wonder if Joshua will ever find out that the Queen lied to him and what his reaction will be.🤔😳❤️❤️❤️
This story made me think of a quote” In order to get from what was to what will be ,you must go through what is. My heart broke for Joshua as he struggled with his physical and emotional pain. He had to endure a great deal in order
To return to the “King maker “ he was intended to be. Romans 8:28 comes to mind as well because as all the components in this story start to come together I found myself devouring each page hope his hurt would soon be healed. As for ROC, I Loved her , oh my goodness. She truly knew how to handle Joshua 😂😂. It was about the battle of wills between two very strong willed individuals.
Great story I just wonder if Joshua will ever find out that the Queen lied to him and what his reaction will be.🤔😳❤️❤️❤️
April 10, 2018
I loved it, part two did not disappoint at all. I picked this one up at my local library. I was so glad that they finally, got some of Iris Bollings, books. Joshua is the man, he lost his way for a bit. but his comeback was something to read. After he was betrayed by his country and lover, I didn't think he would give another woman the chance to get close to him, or work with the government again. Oh my, did he turn it all around. Absolute, the covert operative came out and helped to save his countrys. in the process. then he meet his equal in Rochelle (roc), and learned what real love was. I'm loving the Lassiter clan, a strong family, full of morals, and values.
I'm going to miss Joshua that's for sure. His character is so strong, that you feel his outrage or passion. You also get to see that loving, sensitive side of him. This character is just so well rounded. This is a book that I know I will reread over and over.
I'm going to miss Joshua that's for sure. His character is so strong, that you feel his outrage or passion. You also get to see that loving, sensitive side of him. This character is just so well rounded. This is a book that I know I will reread over and over.
June 26, 2019
#3 - While in another country, (CIA Operative) Joshua Lassiter uncovers a plot targeting the current President of the United States JD Harrison. His loyalty to the country that betrayed him in the past comes to the forefront as he takes action to prevent the treasonous act. He is injured during the course of the mission and now must trust the new administration will rescue him. In-active (CIA Operative) known only as ROC is called back into duty by the White House. Her mission is two-fold. Rescue Joshua Lassiter home, alive. Restore him to the number one weapon in the United States covert arsenal. The mission plunges the two into danger and uncertainty as the plot revels it is the United States military trying to prevent them from reaching the President, by any means necessary. Who do they TRUST? ——- Who do they BELIEVE?
October 19, 2023
I did not have any expectation for Joshua II to be equal to my rating for Joshua I. I was seriously wrong.
It felt like Joshua was more into Akande than she was into him during Joshua I. That was definitely not an issue with Joshua and Roc (Rocy). I loved that, as difficult as Joshua wanted to be, Roc held her own. She was strong, independent, intelligent, and talented. Their romance kicked the temperature up to another level.
I enjoyed the intrigue, drama, suspense, action, and danger in this book. It had it all. I liked the way Joshua and Roc worked together to solve they mystery that had invaded the White House.
I really can't think of anything I didn't like about this book. Even their HEA was unique.
It felt like Joshua was more into Akande than she was into him during Joshua I. That was definitely not an issue with Joshua and Roc (Rocy). I loved that, as difficult as Joshua wanted to be, Roc held her own. She was strong, independent, intelligent, and talented. Their romance kicked the temperature up to another level.
I enjoyed the intrigue, drama, suspense, action, and danger in this book. It had it all. I liked the way Joshua and Roc worked together to solve they mystery that had invaded the White House.
I really can't think of anything I didn't like about this book. Even their HEA was unique.
February 8, 2018
4.0 out of 5 starsLove is the best way to end this one!
ByDiehard Reader 4Lyfeon May 16, 2014
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
This was such a great highly anticipated sequel to Joshua's story! I really enjoyed the storyline. A few grammatical errors along the way but overall a great read! I am anticipating much more from the Lassiter clan! Keep up the great work Iris. 4 1/2 stars. Will be patiently waiting on the next one!
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ByDiehard Reader 4Lyfeon May 16, 2014
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
This was such a great highly anticipated sequel to Joshua's story! I really enjoyed the storyline. A few grammatical errors along the way but overall a great read! I am anticipating much more from the Lassiter clan! Keep up the great work Iris. 4 1/2 stars. Will be patiently waiting on the next one!
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June 29, 2021
A Wild Ride
I gave this book 5 stars because I truly enjoyed reading it. There's nothing I disliked about it because it a great book. I would definitely recommend reading The Book of Joshua I and II. Joshua and Rocy had a rough start but in the end they came together like a great love story ends. Are there more books coming in this series? I sure do hope so. Thanks Iris Bolling for keeping me occupied with your awesome stories.
I gave this book 5 stars because I truly enjoyed reading it. There's nothing I disliked about it because it a great book. I would definitely recommend reading The Book of Joshua I and II. Joshua and Rocy had a rough start but in the end they came together like a great love story ends. Are there more books coming in this series? I sure do hope so. Thanks Iris Bolling for keeping me occupied with your awesome stories.
August 23, 2021
The Book of Joshua 2 - Believe, though not as emotionally charged, as book 1, it is even more action packed. I really enjoyed how Ms. Bolling kept us second guessing who traitorous mastermind was. Roc is the perfect person for Joshua. She allowed him to just be himself and didn't fall apart when the going got seriously life threatening. Instead, she fought along side of Joshua and at times for him. This is a great book and a definite must read.
February 2, 2023
What can you say about Joshua Lassiter. I've have enjoyed his character in the other series that I've by Iris Bolling and always loved him. Reading his story in boos I and II, I've developed a better understanding of the complexities of Joshua. I was so happy that Joshua was able to overcome his heartbreak and anger at the government he serves so faithfully. Rochelle was the perfect antidote he needed.
Kudos Ms. Bolling for another great read.
Kudos Ms. Bolling for another great read.
August 27, 2025
Joshua II
I am so happy that there was a Joshua II! Talking about a man falling in love who was arrogant and hurt when he couldn't get his way with a woman he thought he controlled because he was fine as wine!😀 This author has become one of my favorite authors because she writes Black Love! You will not be disappointed in her story lines! I could not put it down! Read the entire series, I know I will! Part four at 1:00 am!
I am so happy that there was a Joshua II! Talking about a man falling in love who was arrogant and hurt when he couldn't get his way with a woman he thought he controlled because he was fine as wine!😀 This author has become one of my favorite authors because she writes Black Love! You will not be disappointed in her story lines! I could not put it down! Read the entire series, I know I will! Part four at 1:00 am!
March 5, 2018
Challenging
Joshua found his mate by facing his challenges most men that are strong like him needs a woman that is as strong as his mother. Finally Joshua met his match through his heartbreak......amazing
Joshua found his mate by facing his challenges most men that are strong like him needs a woman that is as strong as his mother. Finally Joshua met his match through his heartbreak......amazing
July 7, 2018
A wonderful ending
Joshua and Roc's story had me on the edge of my seat as they completed their mission. A great love story and character development. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Joshua and Roc's story had me on the edge of my seat as they completed their mission. A great love story and character development. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
December 23, 2020
Great.story
Absolute and Roc are two very strong willed people. Both work.for the government as agents. This story was very intriguing. Their path to love was not and easy one. Both off then were grounded in their faith.
Absolute and Roc are two very strong willed people. Both work.for the government as agents. This story was very intriguing. Their path to love was not and easy one. Both off then were grounded in their faith.
June 5, 2021
Joshua II
I am so hooked on this series. Each book gets better and better. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. Was a great storyline. Great characters. Kept you wondering who dunnit.
I am so hooked on this series. Each book gets better and better. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. Was a great storyline. Great characters. Kept you wondering who dunnit.
April 14, 2022
Whew, gems and gents series, must read!
I love the intrigue, romance James Bond action, whew loving the first 3 books of this series, I recommend this series to all romantics with a notch above intrigue.
I love the intrigue, romance James Bond action, whew loving the first 3 books of this series, I recommend this series to all romantics with a notch above intrigue.
October 31, 2018
Loved every single page!! Great story line—great story teller. But you should read the first book prior
June 8, 2021
Simply believe!
What a wonderful way to show your readers how to trust in God. How to give it all up and leave it in His hands! Bravo!
What a wonderful way to show your readers how to trust in God. How to give it all up and leave it in His hands! Bravo!
June 11, 2021
What A Man
Joshua Theodore Lassiter fits the lyrics of the Salt and Pepa song secure in his manhood because he's a real man. Joshua is the black James Bond.
Joshua Theodore Lassiter fits the lyrics of the Salt and Pepa song secure in his manhood because he's a real man. Joshua is the black James Bond.
July 10, 2021
Excellent
Loved loved loved Joshua's story. Roc was no joke. Even when he was rude she didn 't back down.They were meant fo each other.
Loved loved loved Joshua's story. Roc was no joke. Even when he was rude she didn 't back down.They were meant fo each other.
October 9, 2021
Great
Finally Joshua got the woman he wanted. Rochelle got the man she wanted. It took a while for Joshua to admit that he was in love. Good read.
Finally Joshua got the woman he wanted. Rochelle got the man she wanted. It took a while for Joshua to admit that he was in love. Good read.
May 6, 2022
Joshua..
I love him to the highest. He is all the things a man should be.... complicated, loyal, complex. Fine wine
I love him to the highest. He is all the things a man should be.... complicated, loyal, complex. Fine wine
June 9, 2022
I loved this story!!!
December 31, 2022
Sooo good!!! A lot of twist and turns!! I’m loving this series.
April 19, 2023
A Fave
I adored this story! Every bit of it. Would love more of this couple. They need another story adventure written.
I adored this story! Every bit of it. Would love more of this couple. They need another story adventure written.
August 20, 2021
Baby, when I tell you JC has more heart than JD I mean that. The young man also connects the dots quicker, which is scary since JD is the President.
October 15, 2019
MsLady
Joshua will always be my hero but I am also falling in love with Roc. They make a perfect couple, I wonder what their son’s gonna be like. Loving the Gems and Gent series can’t read to read book 4.
Joshua will always be my hero but I am also falling in love with Roc. They make a perfect couple, I wonder what their son’s gonna be like. Loving the Gems and Gent series can’t read to read book 4.
November 11, 2014
The second story of Joshua Theodore Lassiter aka Absolute was just as exhilarating as Book 1.
What an amazing, emotionally charged, God changing experience. Joshua was a man who was hurting and devastatingly so, it is always the ones that everyone believes is so in charge of everything, that when they are shattered they fold in on themselves. Leaving all who knows him not knowing what to do because at that point the person literally disappears. That was Joshua, a man who served his country to a fault and then felt his country asked him to do the impossible and he died (emotionally, spiritually and mentally). So in book 2 this is where it picks up, Joshua literally dying and an agent by the name of ROC is called in from retirement to extract him and bring him home. At first she has to medically treat him before she can move him from behind enemy lines. Once she stabilizes him, then begins the task of getting him out of there and this is where stuff gets really crazy for them. For you see their are Americans who would rather see Joshua dead than make it back onto American soil, for he stumbled upon a treasonous plot against the President and his administration and it is coming from inside the White House.
ROC and Joshua make it back to the United States but not without its danger, for many agents have gone dark or have been killed. They don't know who to trust or who to believe, Joshua is still reeling from what he feels is the betrayal against his heart and giving his rescuer ROC a real hard time about everything LOL!!! ROC I love her because the name belies it being male but she is indeed female, she had left the agency because she wanted a normal life of becoming a wife and a mother but at 35 she is starting to think it may never happen for her. This assignment of Joshua is proving to be a bit much for her though but she is exactly what and who he needs, he just doesn't realize it yet. Joshua is struggling with his faith, his belief, he is grieving and crying out in his spirit to God asking Him, "Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?" Lord how many times have I said that, so I knew his pain. But God always will answer you. His mother Sally came straight for him once she was brought to see him, ROC was the Balm of Gilead for him and God was bringing it all together.
Joshua and ROC knew the attraction and the fight against it was there, it was no time to dwell on it because the race against time to stop the full out assault on The President and his Administration was on. There were plots from the inside and the outside, high level clearance given to mercenary who was only loyal to the dollar, an old enemy from "The Heart Series" came back after spending years in jail, sprung before his actual release and he is running around wrecking havoc. JD and Tracy's children are growing up, the one who took me by surprise is JC I can definitely see him following in his dad's footsteps. It was great to read about the gang again too. Another thing that shocked me and threw me for a loop is one of the betrayers I never saw coming, I was shocked and blown away.
I was glad to see Akande and I can understand now why her and Joshua weren't meant to be. Akande seems to be adjusting well in her role as Queen and helping to restore her country. It was really wonderful what she did for Joshua as he embarks on his next journey in life and glad to know they have both made peace with each other. I can't help but wonder about something though, is there something Akande is not being honest about?
I can go on and on about this book, I was totally ecstatic that Joshua found the love of his life in ROC. I was glad to see him reunited with his family again and I have a feeling that we haven't seen the last of Absolute. No I believe we will see him again, taking down the enemy and blowing stuff up because we all know that is his MO LOL!!!
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
What an amazing, emotionally charged, God changing experience. Joshua was a man who was hurting and devastatingly so, it is always the ones that everyone believes is so in charge of everything, that when they are shattered they fold in on themselves. Leaving all who knows him not knowing what to do because at that point the person literally disappears. That was Joshua, a man who served his country to a fault and then felt his country asked him to do the impossible and he died (emotionally, spiritually and mentally). So in book 2 this is where it picks up, Joshua literally dying and an agent by the name of ROC is called in from retirement to extract him and bring him home. At first she has to medically treat him before she can move him from behind enemy lines. Once she stabilizes him, then begins the task of getting him out of there and this is where stuff gets really crazy for them. For you see their are Americans who would rather see Joshua dead than make it back onto American soil, for he stumbled upon a treasonous plot against the President and his administration and it is coming from inside the White House.
ROC and Joshua make it back to the United States but not without its danger, for many agents have gone dark or have been killed. They don't know who to trust or who to believe, Joshua is still reeling from what he feels is the betrayal against his heart and giving his rescuer ROC a real hard time about everything LOL!!! ROC I love her because the name belies it being male but she is indeed female, she had left the agency because she wanted a normal life of becoming a wife and a mother but at 35 she is starting to think it may never happen for her. This assignment of Joshua is proving to be a bit much for her though but she is exactly what and who he needs, he just doesn't realize it yet. Joshua is struggling with his faith, his belief, he is grieving and crying out in his spirit to God asking Him, "Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?" Lord how many times have I said that, so I knew his pain. But God always will answer you. His mother Sally came straight for him once she was brought to see him, ROC was the Balm of Gilead for him and God was bringing it all together.
Joshua and ROC knew the attraction and the fight against it was there, it was no time to dwell on it because the race against time to stop the full out assault on The President and his Administration was on. There were plots from the inside and the outside, high level clearance given to mercenary who was only loyal to the dollar, an old enemy from "The Heart Series" came back after spending years in jail, sprung before his actual release and he is running around wrecking havoc. JD and Tracy's children are growing up, the one who took me by surprise is JC I can definitely see him following in his dad's footsteps. It was great to read about the gang again too. Another thing that shocked me and threw me for a loop is one of the betrayers I never saw coming, I was shocked and blown away.
I was glad to see Akande and I can understand now why her and Joshua weren't meant to be. Akande seems to be adjusting well in her role as Queen and helping to restore her country. It was really wonderful what she did for Joshua as he embarks on his next journey in life and glad to know they have both made peace with each other. I can't help but wonder about something though, is there something Akande is not being honest about?
I can go on and on about this book, I was totally ecstatic that Joshua found the love of his life in ROC. I was glad to see him reunited with his family again and I have a feeling that we haven't seen the last of Absolute. No I believe we will see him again, taking down the enemy and blowing stuff up because we all know that is his MO LOL!!!
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews