Come Back

Dirty, Dark, and Deadly #2

by J.A. Huss

This is a full-length novel
This is book two in a three book series.
The final book releases in November 2014.

*If you’re looking for a romantic book filled with kinky sex and fun embarrassing moments that make you blush and giggle—you’re thinking of my next book that comes out August 27th, 2014. This here book is about dirty sex, dark secrets, and deadly plot twists that will leave you hot, bothered, and breathless.*

“Secrets keep the darkness alive,” Harper tells me. But that’s not how I see it at all. Secrets keep me alive, the truth is overrated, honesty is never the best policy, and when your job title is Assassin Number Six—lies are your lifeblood.

“Death is a business deal,” I tell her back. And I shake his hand with secrets every chance I get. They’re currency in my world. I pay my debts with them, I feed on them, they ground me in the present and they promise me a future.

But Harper Tate is everything I’ve ever wanted. She’s my promise, she’s my obsession, she’s a delicious fuckable transgression. She can be mine. She will be mine. All I have to do is complete the mission.

There’s just one teeny, tiny problem with the mission.

It’s a secret.

Genres: Romance, Dark, Suspense, Erotica, Mystery, New Adult, Contemporary

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 19, 2014

About the author

J.A. Huss never wanted to be a writer and she still dreams of that elusive career as an astronaut. She originally went to school to become an equine veterinarian but soon figured out they keep horrible hours and decided to go to grad school instead. That Ph.D wasn’t all it was cracked up to be (and she really sucked at the whole scientist thing), so she dropped out and got a M.S. in forensic toxicology just to get the whole thing over with as soon as possible.

After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.

So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.

She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Dirty, Dark, and Deadly STARS!!



Do you love stories that keep you engrossed the entire time your reading? Interesting characters, original story lines full of suspense, twists and turns, sex and humor? JA Huss gives that to me every single time I read one of her books. That is why she is a go to author of mine. Come Back is no exception.

Trust. It’s something that doesn’t come easy to any one in ‘The Company’. James is determined to make Harper trust him. But that’s difficult. He is in a position where he can’t divulge everything. As long as Harper knows she’s protected, that she can trust James no matter what, he’s okay.

“Take a risk on me. I’m on your side, Harper.”

Harper wants to trust James, she really does, but something is holding her back. Deep down, she knows. Knows he’s keeping things from her. This game they’re playing, this mission they’re on… the stakes are high. Harper is an awesome heroine. She did something towards the beginning that shocked the hell out of me. I didn’t know she had it in her. It’s been just James and Harper, but now, it’s not just the two of them anymore. There is a new addition added to the mix. Who is she? Where did she come from? You’re about to find out…

Sasha. Sasha stole the show. This girl… she was kick ass on a whole different level than Harper. And the fact that she loves Ford makes her my new bff. If you’ve read Slack, you know who she is, she’s a very memorable character. If you haven’t, it’s okay. Sasha is a 13 year old girl. But she’s lived a life that makes her seem older than she is sometimes. Then there are other times, you realize she is just a kid. Sasha may have even more trust issues than Harper. She’s lived a Company life just the same, but wasn’t sheltered as much. She knows somethings and she’s lived a hard life for a 13 year old.

‘I have a gun too, and I promise you, I do not miss.’

“Are you a bad guy, James?” I nod slowly.

“Yes.”

“I’m a bad guy too.”

“So I guess we’re even,” I say back.

“Maybe,” she says as she takes aim.

Sasha isn’t afraid to stand up to anyone. She speaks her mind and trusts her gut. As much as I love James, I think she was my favorite character this book!

But since we’re talking about James… James is a man on a mission. I loved hearing more about his past. Getting his perspective really gave me a little more understanding about whats going on. James is an alpha. He is a sexy bad ass. In this story, he shows a bit of his softer side that I didn’t think he even had. Harper brings that out in him.

“You and me,” he says, pointing to each of us. “We are the only ones that matter.”

But don’t worry. James didn’t go too soft on us. He’s just as much as a killer as before.

Things are weaved together in a way I could never think of… looking back I’m like WOW. You don’t have to read her previous series to read these books. But I’m telling you now, if you have read them- you’re in for a treat. You get these little moments that a light bulb clicks on in your mind and you realize these connections between characters and events. It’s pretty awesome.



That ending. Holy crap. The cliffhanger wasn’t terrible (I’m not even sure if I would classify it as an actual cliffy), because a lot is explained. Even so, I have so many more questions. I can’t wait for the answers to unfold. And to see how JA will end this awesome series. Give me more James, more Harper, more Sasha and I really want some more Merc!

I love a book that can keep my heart racing, my mind running and keep me invested page after page after page. I want to go back and re-read because I feel like I may have missed some things. JA’s writing is amazing. Sometimes when reading her stories, I think how in the world does she come up with this shit? I have no idea and I don’t even care. I’m just glad she does. Come Back is full of excitement, inventiveness, steam and action. Lots of action. And even some love. This is an intriguing series you won’t want to miss out on!!!

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like I say this all the time, but seriously how do Julie do this? She is so freaking smart. I am reading this and as things unfold I am can't imagine keeping all these books and characters straight - then the twists!! She is insane!

Come Back is insane and left me begging for more. I cannot wait to see what happens with James and Harper!!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ Dirty Promise Stars



Come Back is the second book in the Dirty, Dark & Deadly Series, Come is the first in the series and is a novella that focuses mainly on Harper Tate and encounter with James Fenici. Now this series has some overlap with prior books that J.A. Huss has written. I'll link the reading order to these books at the end of this review. Each one is absolutely fantastic and although not all tie in to this series, they all should be read.

A favor has been called in, after all in this business it all comes down to who owes you something and how you can manipulate that to your benefit. But the package that has James in the middle of the Colorado prairie isn't what he was expecting. Sasha isn't your typical thirteen year old girl. She's been around enough of the company men to know the score and her father made sure she could hold her own. But this little complication might just give James answers he didn't know he needed.



When James gets to Harper it is clear that they have to be on the move. Getting her to trust that she is not his contract is proving to be harder than he originally thought. Harper soon discovers that the pasts are far more connected than she ever imagined. But there are still too many unanswered questions, and alliances are far too blurred to trust anyone.



As James, Harper and Sasha make their way back to California pieces start to fall into place, but who is working for who is still unknown. Each one of them holds their own secrets, secrets that they can't yet reveal and until they can find a way to trust that the other won't use that against them - they find themselves having to take a chance and let things unfold.



This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. From the first page until the very last my stomach was in knots. The suspense never let up for one second. This is the kind of read that has your mind whirling with possibilities and conspiracies because the author is playing this close to her chest. One thing I have learned from reading her books is that eventually everything will come together and make sense, but not until she wants you to see the big picture.

This story is shaping up to be such a complex plot that is completely captivating. After reading the last seven books, I think this series might end up being my favorite of the group.

Harper is still a bit of a wild card. She isn't as innocent as she lets on and although you get her POV, she is not quick to reveal too much of her true self. She is that heroine that is both vulnerable and strong and there has not been one single thing about her that has caused an eye roll or a frustrated sigh.

Sasha was as bad-ass as you can get. This little assassin smurf stole the show completely. When she was first introduced in Slack, I knew this girl had a story to be told and it is turning out to be far more than I ever expected. I absolutely loved the shifts between her persona - it was easy to forget that she was just a kid... but then something would crack that tough exterior and the little girl would shine through. I was left completely torn between wanting to adopt her and ask her to be my BFF.



James.... What can we say about this man that can do him justice? He is that alpha male type but even as a cold-blooded killer, there is a bit of light that exists buried beneath all the blood. Ronin, Ford, Spencer... they all had something that made you love them, but James just has that it factor that has you both praying for his redemption and not wanting him to change one thing about himself.

Don't think this book is all about the action - the delivery of the heat is just as captivating as the suspense. James is that dominant kind of lover, one that doesn't mind being vocal or ensuring that Harper knows exactly how he wants to be pleased. Throw in a bit of ass-play and the most romantic and erotic public bathroom scene EVER, and you will be as wet as you are intrigued.



JA's writing goes far beyond the box of New Adult that she finds herself in. She absolutely killed it. There was not one part of this story that became dull or over indulgent. A solid story and plot with so many possible ways it can play out. After finishing this book I was still so amped up and still can't seem to stop thinking about it. This series is one of those that no matter what romance category you fall into, this is one that you'd love.

The ending was not a cliffhanger. There is still so much of this story to be told and you don't get closer to the final answers - but a phase of the events of this plot line is concluded and leads you into the next phase of the story that will be released around November 2014.



Reading Order of her prior series:
Rook & Ronin:
Tragic
Manic
Panic

Ford: (Meet Merc & Sasha)
Slack: A Day in the Life of Ford Aston
Taut: The Ford Book

Spencer: (Meet James)
Bomb: A Day in the Life of Spencer Shrike
Guns: The Spencer Book

Come
Come Back



ARC graciously provided by the author.

[Eliza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Come Back (Dirty, Dark & Deadly, #2)
Series: Dirty, Dark & Deadly
Author: J.A. Huss
Release Date: July 21st, 2014
Rating: 5 "Bulletproof" Stars
Cliffhanger: Yes






My immediate reaction after reading this was "Fu*k me." Closely followed by feeling of Hope. Maybe a little naively but I hope for everything to work out perfectly. For James and Harper to be free of the her father and The Company, for James' debts to be repaid and for them to have some sense of normality.

"You take away the emptiness, Harper. You take away all the years of indifference and dissociation and right right now" - I cup her face again- "right now, this is more real than anything I've felt in years. Maybe ever. This feels like something new. Something apart from what I was and a way forward into what I can be. This feels like hope, baby."

But I know there is a long way to go before (if) that happens. In the already complicated weave, another thread is added in the form Sacha. By all intents and purposes she should be another victim of The Company orphaned at 13, looking for answers and revenge; never quite trusting of James' intentions she is a new member of the fold.



I was endeared to Harper straight away, she has a steely strength to her but there are also a few moments of vulnerability that show once in a while - in these moments I want to hug her, even though the I'm sure she'd kick my ass. There were quite a few times I wished Harper could channel some of sasha's strength, luckily she has James:



The history of how James came to know her is unfolded in this instalment and he's feelings for if taken without suspicion are pure, Harper however holds back emotionally as much as she can. Sexually however it's all guns blazing:



The way in which this instalment is left was brilliant, not because I can handle the wait (I can't) but because I appreciate the layers to this story and if I have have it right I'm clinging onto James' words:

I can't promise you we'll never be apart. It wouldn't be honest. But I can promise you one thing. If I leave you, I will come back."




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[S.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 DEADLY DANGEROUS STARS

If death is a deal, then love is a promise. Death is my job.



“I remember the dirty deal I made with death. And death is coming back to collect.”

Come Back is the second book in the series and picks up from Come, the prequel novella that focused on James Fenici (aka Tet or Six), a Company assassin and Harper Tate (aka Lionfish), the head of the Company’s daughter and also, an on-the-run killer.

This book takes place over maybe a week, not much more than that and involves James, Harper and Sasha Cherlin (aka Smurf), a thirteen year old girl that we first met in, Slack: A Day in the Life of Ford Aston, one of Ms. Huss’ other stories.

The story begins with James on a job. A debt is called in and James is sent to pick up a package. Lo and behold, the package is Sasha who has been alone in the desert for months. Her father was killed and then her grandparents and she had to also kill to survive. Like Harper and James, Sasha belongs to the Company. “She is not a kid you want to fuck over without a plan.” She is lethal.



I can’t say enough about J.A. Huss’ writing and her wickedly amazing ability to create a web of deception, death, danger, secrets, broken promises, lust and love. I devoured this book and I know I will reread the first two books before the third and final book. I can’t get enough.

I love how I have to work just as hard as the characters to unravel this mystery of danger. It’s a jigsaw puzzle and not all the pieces are present. And even with the pieces that are there, they don’t seem to quite fit together.



James, Harper and Sasha all know it's a set-up but none of them is exactly sure what purpose they serve. And while they're walking targets, they are frantically trying to figure who the hunters are? One or all of them could be a hunter – a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Who to trust is the million dollar question.



“But I do know that trust can be easy if you want it to be. You either do – or you don’t. You believe in the love and loyalty and good intentions – or you don’t.”


In this book, we also get to see the lethal side of Harper. James had talked about her being dangerous in COME but it’s here we get to see Lionfish as a Hunter. Killer.



“I’m a job to him. A dirty promise. A dark obsession maybe.” – Harper

Of course, like all of Ms. Huss' books, this story would not be complete without electrifying chemistry and steamy, hot sex. Harper and James are on fire together.

“Fuckable. You are simply. Fuckable.”



Even with the lack of trust and the secrets, they both want each other.

“You take that giving-up feeling away. You make me feel safe…you’re like my cure. But without you…” - Harper




Of course, this book ends on a fuckin' high, with me holding my breath for the next book...for this story to come back and continue!

“I can’t promise you we’ll never be apart. It wouldn't be honest. But I can promise you one thing. If I leave you, I will come back...I’ll never be gone longer than 10 days.”

If you like a superb mind-fuck with twists and turns and a few bombshells, you have to read this series, as well as Tragic / Manic / Panic and the spinoff books!

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★]

Reading soon!

Books in series should be read in order:
Part 1: Come
Book 2: Come Back
Book 3: Coming for You

[Laura Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok my day did not go as planned. I planned to get a ton of housework done today. I did not do that. I picked up this book and said to myself " just one chapter". So after six hours of me not moving eyes from book, shoving junk food at my five kids to shut them up so I could continue to read, I am done reading this.

So, dear Julie here is my end of book "shit" thoughts. (In honor of your love of The F bomb, here's a few for you.......)
What the Fuck did I just read?
Where the Fuck is this going?
I love when an author fucks with your mind.....the right fucking way and let me tell you this book did that.
I love the way James fucking thinks!
By the end of the next book the following fucking people better be fucking dead: number "One", Tet's bitch sister, Tet's parents , whoever the fuck killed Sasha's father and most importantly THE FUCKING ADMIRAL!
Great FUCKING book Julie, I bow down to you!

P.S. Julie.....do us all a fucking favor and put the next book out sooner? Thanks!

P.S.S. Stop teasing us with Fucking Ford. We want to actually SEE Fucking Ford in the next book. That is all.

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I finished reading Come Back, I was like:



The plot twists and turns in this series are better than a roller coaster. We met our power couple James and Harper in the first book, Come! We know James is "technically" a bad boy. We know that Harper is not your typical girl next door. We know that together they are sexy as hell! No matter what, James is not letting go of Harper.



As Come Back begins, questions that were left unanswered begin to morph into bigger questions. The answers are few and the intrigue continues to build. Harper questions James and his motives for being with her. She is desperate to find her brother and stay far away from her father and the company. The only thing that is a sure thing is James and Harper.

"Your beauty called to me, the same way it did back when we turned Six. And I knew the very second I saw you. You were my only reason to live.”-James

James, has extracted a young fireball named Sasha. Sasha is a key puzzle piece to the story. Sasha stole the show with her strength and wild spirit. She is a child and yet she carries herself like a full grown adult. An adult that has been trained to kill.



These three make a very unlikely family. The catalyst of the story is who is working for who? Who is the good guys and who are the bad guys? Where is Harper's brother? When will the company catch up with them? The bottom line to this story is:

James, Sasha, and Harper all have secrets. Although they all share the same goal, they each have their own strategy to reach that goal. What is so remarkable about this writing is that you are completely drawn in. You are rooting for them to fight and survive. James begins to draw closer to Harper. He truly loves her. James is my favorite hero type. He is not a gentle lover but a man on a mission with a plan. Protect Harper. Get free of the company!



Throughout the rough and tumble of the violence, Harper manages to keep her sense of humor in tact. She is such a likable heroine. She is tough and has overcome so much! James has given her hope. James is her peace!

“You’re bulletproof. You cannot be touched, baby. You can’t. Because I’m your shield. That’s all you need to know. That’s the only thing you need to know. Just believe in me.”-James



Come Back is full of action and intrigue. I was so impressed with each turn of the page. I didn't know what was going to happen next. The ending gutted me. I knew that everything was going to be ok and yet my heart broke for Harper, James, and Sasha. It only took me about twenty minutes before I started the third and final book in the series. I was that desperate to see what was going to happen next! Another amazing read! This book is even better than the first. Nothing makes me happier than a book with action, romance, and a side of naughty!

“You’ll come back for me?” He smiles and my heart breaks. “You’re leaving, aren’t you?” “No,” he says too quickly. “I’m not leaving. Not for good anyway. I’m gonna go get what I need and I’ll be right back. And then we’re gonna go watch the damn sunset. If it’s the last thing I do, I will get another sunset with you.”

[Kim Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible, wild & crazy read!
So many moving parts. Just when I thought I was figuring things out, it all blew up & I was back in the dark. Wow, just wow!
The characters are really well developed and believable. Sasha is crazy & I love her. She's everything I wanted to be when I was 13.
So anxious for the next book & the conclusion of this twisted tale!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review

☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Come Back Stars ☆☆☆☆☆

Pardon my language but COME BACK by J.A. Huss is hands down fucking AH-MAZZING. With that being said, this book is a MUST READ!! You will not want to put this book down. And once you are done with the book, you are left begging for more of Harper, James, and Sasha. All I can say is that J.A. Huss is one of my favorite authors and everything she writes is PERFECTION for me.

Harper can be mine. No-Harper will be mine. All I have to do is complete the mission. Death is a business deal. And I just shook his hand.



JA Huss was able to weave so many layers of raw, gritty, sexiness and suspense in this second installment. Hold on to the edge of your seats, Ms. Huss will put you through one of hell of a sex, dirty, thrilling ride that will leave you holding onto your breath as she spellbinds us with James, Harper, and Sasha. You will be left second guessing yourself as to who to trust. And to top it off you will be left speechless and be saying WHAT THE FUCK on repeat.

“If death is a deal, then love is a promise.”



JA Huss definitely titled this series perfectly. It is Dirty, Dark, and Deadly. In this many facet and intertwined layers of storyline and characters, secrets, lies, betrayals, and trust are exposed. Picking up where it last left off in COME, James is sent to retrieve a special package. In his case, this package was one feisty, smart, and tough 13 year old girl named Sasha. When James and Harper are finally reunited, the duo must tackle the most important factor of their relationship: TRUST. We all know that trust must be earned so James tries his hardest to instill that in Harper even if it means trying to fuck the truth right into her.

“You belong to me. You’re mine. So if you stay, you need to understand that. You’re mine.”



As the story progresses, Harper and James past and present begins to collide. A long time connection from their youth unravels that James and Harper were meant to meet. Promises were made. Love was destined. Businesses were dealt. Secrets were left buried. And motives are being questioned. So who is there to trust? James? Harper? Sasha?

What we know for sure is the Company is after something. And James wants Harper to trust him but how can she when James won’t tell her the truth. The doubts Harper has about James is justified. But one thing is for certain, James did his best trying to fuck his way into her heart and mind. Will James be able to keep his promise to Harper and come back in 10 days?



James and Harper’s story is filled with excitement, suspense, and steam. Secrets begins to unfold. Betrayals begins to unravel. And the truth...well that’s for us to find out what JA Huss has in store for us. They say the eyes are useless when the mind is blind. Well in this case, JA Huss will open our eyes to one mind-blowing story that you can’t help but have your eyes glued to your kindle. Business is business. Love is a risk. The heart is vulnerable. The truth hurts. Nothing is black and white. And behind the eyes of James, Harper and Sasha is a story to be told. So be prepared for their COME BACK!!!

“If I tell you to walk through fire, it’s because I know beyond a doubt that you are fireproof. If I tell you to take a bullet, it’s because I know you that you are bulletproof. If I tell you to walk away from me, its because you know I will come back for you. No matter what I tell you to do, you will do it, and you will be safe because I said so. Because I love you. Because you trust in my love.”



All I can say is J.A. Huss is a mastermind mind. She will hook you with her amazing talent as a writer. The storyline is fucking phenomenal. The characters are real, sexy and gritty. And the emotions are raw. COME BACK is definitely a 5 star read and I just want to shout on the rooftops…. “GO READ THIS SERIES. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!” I seriously can’t wait for third book. I am greedy for MORE. November needs to hurry. I need more James. I need more Harper. And of course, I can’t forget the Smurfette, Sasha. <3

“You and me, Harper, we’re in this together. I’m the only one of you should always trust. No matter what’s happening. I’m the one you look to. Because everything I’m doing is for you and me. Not just you, not just me. But both of us.”



J.A. Huss

[Jana Aston · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many twisty feels...

COME BACK picks up where COME left off. James has taken off leaving Harper waiting. Turns out he had an errand to run... in the form of picking up a 13 year old girl from a deserted Colorado prairie, by the name of Sasha. (If you're paying really close attention Sasha first appeared in Slack. She had a scene with Ford while Merc worked out a deal with her Dad.)

Sasha will steal your heart before you'e finished the first chapter. She may also steal the entire book.

This book is a triangle of confusion. James. Harper. Sasha. Whom should I trust? Who is safe? These three are regularly pulling guns on each other and questioning each other's motives. Sasha seems to have some answers but isn't talking. James is the hero so I should assume he's good- yet I'm not sure what his intentions are. Harper, she's pretty innocent, yet she's not.

"What's your tally Harper? How many have you killed? Do you even know?"

"I'm not a killer. I don't know why they tell you those things. I'm not a killer."

"I am," Sasha says. "I got four, James. When they came to blow up my grandparents ranch. I got four."

Who are these people? They're twisty, I know that much.

There's a romance woven into the suspense as well. Harper was promised to James when she was a child as some sort of deluded payment for a job. Or maybe she wasn't. Maybe the Admiral (head of the secret organization in which this book takes place & Harper's father) has been playing James for a decade. It doesn't matter because now that Harper is grown, James wants her.

But.... there's still this lingering feeling....

"Things feel off with me too," Harper finally admits. "I can't put my finger on it, but it feels bad."

"That feeling is James betraying you, Harper. And if I was you, I'd definitely listen to that one."

See what I mean about Sasha? Kid gets all the best lines. I'm practically gagging for a Sasha spin off & she's 13.

We get some answers at the end of COME BACK but not all, obviously. I wouldn't call this a cliff hanger. There's enough resolution that you can be satisfied until the 3rd book releases in November.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story just gets better and better!

[Chelcie Dacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shut the fuck up and buy this book. You have to read this book. If there is book this year that you read make it this book.

My blood is on fire, my nerves are fried, my mind is racing and I can't fucking sit still. I feel like I'm on speed and I need something to bring me down. I need a downer.

Fuck. This. Shit. What. The. Fuck. On repeat. Right. Now. In my head.

I don't make sense you say. Well this fucking book is just so fucking genius. It's a movie, like the matrix and you have no clue who is what and what is what and who what is and why what is doing what what is doing and you just keep reading and you get to the end and you can't even comprehend what you just read.

I need to like re read it and write shit down and make a timeline so I can keep it all clear

Fuck me this book.

[Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

well, there's not much to say here other than...freakin' WOW!!!
yes, i tend to overreact, cause this book ha dme worked up on several levels.

first: the plot - most of the time I was just starting to catch up on thing and then, all of a sudden I would be like this:


than I would go back and re-read it, just to get a few pointers clear...God, there are so many bullshits out there to deal with and f*cked up situations that the characters have to endure and over come just to clear their heads from doubts, mistrust and frustration.

James, Harper and the little assasin that James calls Smurf (so sweet, and the fact that i can't remember that little girl's name says how over hypened I really am...Sasha! Sasha! Sasha! - that little smurf is just what the two of them need to balance the tension between them, the mistrust that eats out Harper to the bone, cause she doesn't know any better, the banter between James and Sasha is pricless...

Sasha - That’s not what I’d call you. Pest maybe. Shitty archer, pain in the ass—take your pick.

James and Harper - turns out there's so much more to them then what you start with...and James is so NOT who I liked at first - no, he's so much more...

“I never hated you, Lionfish. I loved you the very first moment I set eyes on you when you were six.”
“You did?”
He nods. “I did. But loving a six-year-old is wrong. You have to understand that. It’s so dirty, there’s no way I could deal with the powerful draw you had on me. And that was before you were promised.

their relationship grows with every step of the way and them it falls like two steps back each time the shit start to happen, but the constant is the WANT - the lust...

“I want you now, Harper,” he says, like he’s reading my thoughts. “I have you now. And I know you want me too. But if I’m wrong, here’s your opportunity to say no.”
I can’t move. This feels permanent. Like this yes or no answer will decide my fate.
“I’ll take that as a yes,” James says.
And then his bare chest is brushing up against my body and his mouth takes what he came for.

“Then”—he steps forward and the gulf between us evaporates—“take a risk on me. I’m on your side, Harper.”
“No,” I say, shaking my head. “You’re on no one’s side. You’re only here for your own interests.”
He stares back at me for a few seconds and nods in response. “You’re right. But baby, the only thing I’m interested in right now is you.”

oh, and the thing James says and the things he does...and the fact that He is beautiful. His body is not a blank canvas. It’s a masterpiece. really works in his favor.

“I want you. I’m going to touch you. I’m not fighting with you anymore. It’s a waste of time. I’m going to fuck the shit out of you right here, right now. In this goddamned desert shithole bathroom even though you deserve to be fucked on a tropical beach or somewhere with a mountain view, or, hell, even the goddamned Hummer would be better than right here. But you know what?”
I swallow down my surprise. “What?”
“You gotta make the most of what you got. And we’re not on a tropical beach or in front of a goddamned beautiful mountain. And fucking Smurfette is probably out in the Hummer. So this is all I got.”


James


If I tell you to walk away from me, it’s because you know I will come back for you. No matter what I tell you to do, you will do it, and you will be safe because I said so. Because I love you. Because you trust my love.”

Harper



“You can believe in me, kid. I told you, I’m working on it. I’m gonna keep you safe.” I look over at Harper as she silently watches us. “I’m gonna keep both of you safe.”

Sasha




“None of this has anything to do with the fight we’re having.”
He smiles and then nods at me. “Oh yes, it does. Because here’s the thing, Harp. We are about to have makeup sex. Right the fuck now. And if you don’t want me to do that, then feel free to finish this fight properly. You ready?”
“So you’re gonna force me.”
“I’ll count to three so you can have a few more moments to decide. One.”
My heart begins to beat wildly. “What the hell—”
“Two.” His hands are still hovering above my shoulders but now they slowly descend to rest on my upper arms. “Three.”

the extent of his feelings go beyond the control, beyond the passion, beyond the possesion - it's the core of James' essence - he is a cruel killer and therefore her ultimate protector.

“You’re bulletproof. You cannot be touched, baby. You can’t. Because I’m your shield. That’s all you need to know. That’s the only thing you need to know. Just—” He pushes on me until I turn around enough to look him in his eyes. “Just believe in me.”

the story is full of drama, action, tension, sex, screwed up, hype, murder and mystery...did I miss anything...probably...the freakin' anwers?!



but will get the conclusion in the next installment...

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

[image error]

Hope makes you want things that won't come.
Hope breaks your heart.

JA did it again. This one ranks right up as one of my all time favorite of hers! Easily 5 stars. This author can build a story, make you live in the world of said story, and then will have you cheering for the characters right along with the book!

**James is almost as sexy as my FORD!

[Gitte TotallyBookedBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 'WE NEED MORE OF THIS' Stars!

“Game starts now.”

Gitte: As I was reading Come Back, I kept thinking to myself….What the F is going on? Can anyone spell whiplash? One minute I thought I had it all figured out, only to having no bloody clue the next! Talk about throwing red herrings, teasers and placing a few U-turns in there! JA Huss writes with passion, emotion and can throw a spin on anything! Oh and let’s not forget the extremely hot nookie and filthy talking! Mostly though, she can have me running in circles yet wanting to come back for more (pun totally intended)!!

‘This whole fucking job is a mess. Nothing has gone right.’ – James

I can’t say I fully understand everything that’s going on even after finishing, but I can’t bloody wait for the next installment to find out just who’s a ‘good’ guy, who’s the ‘true’ baddie and what’s with all the phones and messages!! Several times through reading we’d send each other texts full of ?????? didn’t we, Jenny!

Jenny: Secrets, twists, secrets, twists and more bloody secrets and twists! My head is spinning! What are you doing to us JA Huss?? My brain hurts and you’re not alone Gitte because I’m not sure I completely understand what’s going on either lol Oh I like your pun! I will definitely be coming back for more too. How could I not? Just what is what and who is who in this steamy, intriguing, suspenseful and thrilling ride!

‘If death is a deal, then love is a promise.’

The nookie….Off. The. Charts! That dirty, dark and dangerous James Fenici could whisper his filthy sweet nothings to me any day!And yes….there were so many texts going back between us with confused looking pictures attached as we tried to piece together and guess what was going on. There so much I NEED to know! Arggghh

Gitte: I loved the vulnerability, the heartfelt emotion and I felt every agonising word at times. What a beautifully fucked up love story in the making! But could I trust it? I don’t know who or what to trust to be honest, though my heart says YES! It was intense…it was emotionally laden at times and had such passion.

“If I tell you to walk through fire, it’s because I know beyond a doubt that you are fireproof. If I tell you to take a bullet, it’s because I know that you are bulletproof. If I tell you to walk away from me, it’s because you know I will come back for you.” – James

I have to say, right now, I’m rooting for Sasha! Sure, I love James *filthy hot and scary* Fenici and the vulnerable, yet savvy killer Harper. But Sasha, well, I adored her character. She was so endearing yet also one hell of a scary kid too! What a combo! I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of this kick arse girlie! I really want to find out ‘the what’ and ‘the why’ with her character…I have my suspicions!

“…trust is something you earn. And I’m not sure you’ve earned that kind of trust.” – Harper

We can’t say too much about the story can we Jenny as this is book #2..…hmmm I don’t think I can anyway, everyone was either lying or talking in riddles. I actually haven’t got a clue who I should truly be rooting for, my heart knows though and I do know that I enjoyed being back with James and Harper again and I’m excited for more!

“This feels like hope, baby.” – James

What about you, Jenny, how desperate are we to have it all figured out!?

Jenny: I ditto everything you said there and yes! I’m absolutely desperate for the next book Gitte! The anticipation of waiting will be excruciating! I’m dying to see where JA Huss takes the final book! There’s not a lot you can say Gitte without giving anything away and let’s face it…the surprise, shock and gobsmacking elements of this series are the hooks you and keeps you coming back for more so I’m certainly not going to spoil anything for readers here.

“And I knew the very second I saw you. You were my only reason to live.”

I have suspicions too and so many bloody conspiracy theories I could set up my own department. We were spot on about one thing we guessed…..yay for us! We got one right lol.

I have to say I’m rooting for them all. Is that weird? I adore Harper, she’s a wily one that woman! James…well, just what he’s up to is anyone’s guess and Sasha….you’ve gotta feel for that girl. All are such fascinating characters that’s for sure.

“I’m glad you have no idea what really happens in this world, because I’d die a little inside if you knew.”

Gitte, you and I did discuss a scene from their childhood that made us both feel a little uncomfortable with regard to the feelings expressed and age appropriateness which we still can’t completely get our head around. It was a bit of an issue for us, but didn’t hinder our enjoyment of the book.

So, if you love your stories with heat, passion, intrigue, mystery and revel in the excitement of an author who leaves you running in circles constantly trying to outguess her and her characters, then this series is for you. Another winner (even if we are still a little confused lol) from an author who has become an automatic 1click for us!

**Reviewed on ARC copy provided by the author**

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[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say I love this book is certainly an understatement !!
I already loved "Come" which I read in the Bend anthology and I wanted this one so bad!

I don't know how J.A.Huss managed to handle all the different stories but it's brilliant!

Each page brings you to ask questions! You don't know who to trust, what to believe!


At the end of the book, some questions have been answered while many others remain unresolved.

I haven't read the R&R books nor the spin-off's books and I felt a bit taken aback at the beginning of this one. They were talking about Ford and what had happened in his book but as my buddy-read partners told me it wasn't really important to read the other book first because James tells things from his pov.
So I kept goin' and I agree, this story is not about Ford or other characters. Maybe it helps you a little to understand better the feeling Sasha has but it's not a major thing here.
Even if now I want desperately to read all previous book from J.A.Huss to have a better overall view of her universe ;)

Special thanks to my buddy-read partners! It was fun as always ;)

For you need to read you can also discover it in
To Come: Third book not yet here on GR

[Reanell Tisdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ dark and deadly stars!


Jesus. I NEED book 3 now!

Now THAT ladies and gentlemen is how it is done! JA Huss KNOWS HER SHIT! Seriously with every new book I read from her, I fall in even more love with her writing. Come Back was EXPLOSIVE!! Just when I thought I new what was going on, I would be thrown for a loop and wondering what in the actual fuck is happening here?! This book had so many twists and turns, and my goodness the sex was out of this world fucking hot!



^^^did your panties just melt?

I don't want to give away ANY of the storyline, read the blurb for that, because this is one of those books that need to be read and FELT. Experience the fierce ride with James, Harper and Sasha as the story unfolds and leaves you questioning what is gong to happen next. Just when you think you have a clue, the story unfolds another mystery.



I am going to be dying waiting for more of this story and to see how it all unfolds.

[Debbie♥ love my Ducks♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was AWESOME. Love a twisty book that keeps me guessing. Great sex, lots of action and James is a dirty boy :). Cannot wait for the third book and Merc's story! Another homerun from Ms. Huss, keep 'em comin' Julie xoxo.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap! This was amazing. I have devoured it in about a day and I could not put it down.

The Dirty, Dark and Deadly series (Come / Come Back and Coming for You) is marketed as well as stand-alone in its own right, and it could probably be read like that with no much problem, but there are so many aspects of it that are so closely intertwined with the Rook & Ronin universe (particularly with Ford and Spencer's stories), that I am completely sure I would not have got the full blown impact of this book (which was like a punch in the gut at times, frankly, only completely addictive and having me wanting more all the time), without those previous background stories as a foundation of what really is going on in this world of international espionage, crime and corruption, in which teenage assassins indentured from birth to a powerful criminal organisation grow up completely fucked up and without a moral compass. When they are fully grown, then what?

"how many dead bodies does it take for an assassin to grow a conscience?"

Layer upon layer of lies and manipulation, deadly setups, double and triple crossings and everything moving at such breakneck pace that I almost forgot to breathe at times and it didn't let go until the end.

To properly value this story, make it justice, and get the most of it, you really need to have read Slack: A Day in the Life of Ford Aston where Sasha Cherlin, the 12 year old orphaned urchin is introduced, and Taut: The Ford Book which gives a lot of background to the very mysterious James Fenici. Only that we still don't know who he is at that point. There are only hints and obscure clues. You will also have to delve into the Spencer Shrike's books to get more pieces of everyone's past lives. So get Bomb: A Day in the Life of Spencer Shrike and Guns: The Spencer Book before you get your hands on this series, or you'll be scratching your head a lot in confusion.

My recommendation? Just let yourself be taken places, and start from the beginning. Everything will make a lot more sense, and you will have a blast. A truly great reading experience (this the 13th consecutive book I'm reading by this author this month!!!!!)

The whole story so far:

Tragic. Rook & Ronin book 1. Ford and Spencer are introduced at the end of this book.

Manic. Rook & Ronin book 2.

Panic. Rook & Ronin book 3.

Slack: A Day in the Life of Ford Aston. All Ford in a mopey mood.

Taut: The Ford Book. Ford and Asleigh. This one was epic! A lot more information about James Fenici (only you still don't understand some of the clues).

Bomb: A Day in the Life of Spencer Shrike

Guns: The Spencer Book . This one is also pretty essential to follow the Dirty, Dark and Deadly universe and James's background story. Completely interrelated with Ford and Asleigh, and the rest of the gang.

Come. James and Harper

Come Back. James, Harper and Sasha

Coming for You. Well, this will be the resolution of this series, and I am diving into it straight away, but threads will continue in

Meet Me in the Dark (Merc's story), and

Wasted Lust. This is going to be Sasha (as an adult)'s book, and I cannot wait for this one. It is also going to be linked to Three, Two, One through one of the main characters, and so far, together with Ford's Taut: The Ford Book, this has been one of my favourites by this author: twisty, dark and utterly disturbing.

And then the cherry on the cake, Happily Ever After: A Day in the Life of the HEA, the extended Rook & Ronin epilogue, 15 years after the events of the first trilogy. I have cheated and already read this one. So worth it!!!!!!

But still it appears that it still does not end here, since I have now found out that connections with this epic saga are also going to be present in the last book of her new series (Mr. Match). I really don't care how many more, I'd rather have JA Huss coming back to revisit this universe from time to time, to add more layers to it indefinitely. In fact, Julie, please do.
I'll keep coming back for more!

It seems like a huge commitment, but gulping them one by one over the last three weeks, has had me in book heaven and totally drunk in thrilling fiction of the highest caliber. Paradise!

[Jenny - TotallybookedBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 'WE NEED MORE OF THIS' Stars!

“Game starts now.”

Gitte: As I was reading Come Back, I kept thinking to myself….What the F is going on? Can anyone spell whiplash? One minute I thought I had it all figured out, only to having no bloody clue the next! Talk about throwing red herrings, teasers and placing a few U-turns in there! JA Huss writes with passion, emotion and can throw a spin on anything! Oh and let’s not forget the extremely hot nookie and filthy talking! Mostly though, she can have me running in circles yet wanting to come back for more (pun totally intended)!!

‘This whole fucking job is a mess. Nothing has gone right.’ – James

I can’t say I fully understand everything that’s going on even after finishing, but I can’t bloody wait for the next installment to find out just who’s a ‘good’ guy, who’s the ‘true’ baddie and what’s with all the phones and messages!! Several times through reading we’d send each other texts full of ?????? didn’t we, Jenny!

Jenny: Secrets, twists, secrets, twists and more bloody secrets and twists! My head is spinning! What are you doing to us JA Huss?? My brain hurts and you’re not alone Gitte because I’m not sure I completely understand what’s going on either lol Oh I like your pun! I will definitely be coming back for more too. How could I not? Just what is what and who is who in this steamy, intriguing, suspenseful and thrilling ride!

‘If death is a deal, then love is a promise.’

The nookie….Off. The. Charts! That dirty, dark and dangerous James Fenici could whisper his filthy sweet nothings to me any day!And yes….there were so many texts going back between us with confused looking pictures attached as we tried to piece together and guess what was going on. There so much I NEED to know! Arggghh

Gitte: I loved the vulnerability, the heartfelt emotion and I felt every agonising word at times. What a beautifully fucked up love story in the making! But could I trust it? I don’t know who or what to trust to be honest, though my heart says YES! It was intense…it was emotionally laden at times and had such passion.

“If I tell you to walk through fire, it’s because I know beyond a doubt that you are fireproof. If I tell you to take a bullet, it’s because I know that you are bulletproof. If I tell you to walk away from me, it’s because you know I will come back for you.” – James

I have to say, right now, I’m rooting for Sasha! Sure, I love James *filthy hot and scary* Fenici and the vulnerable, yet savvy killer Harper. But Sasha, well, I adored her character. She was so endearing yet also one hell of a scary kid too! What a combo! I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of this kick arse girlie! I really want to find out ‘the what’ and ‘the why’ with her character…I have my suspicions!

“…trust is something you earn. And I’m not sure you’ve earned that kind of trust.” – Harper

We can’t say too much about the story can we Jenny as this is book #2..…hmmm I don’t think I can anyway, everyone was either lying or talking in riddles. I actually haven’t got a clue who I should truly be rooting for, my heart knows though and I do know that I enjoyed being back with James and Harper again and I’m excited for more!

“This feels like hope, baby.” – James

What about you, Jenny, how desperate are we to have it all figured out!?

Jenny: I ditto everything you said there and yes! I’m absolutely desperate for the next book Gitte! The anticipation of waiting will be excruciating! I’m dying to see where JA Huss takes the final book! There’s not a lot you can say Gitte without giving anything away and let’s face it…the surprise, shock and gobsmacking elements of this series are the hooks you and keeps you coming back for more so I’m certainly not going to spoil anything for readers here.

“And I knew the very second I saw you. You were my only reason to live.”

I have suspicions too and so many bloody conspiracy theories I could set up my own department. We were spot on about one thing we guessed…..yay for us! We got one right lol.

I have to say I’m rooting for them all. Is that weird? I adore Harper, she’s a wily one that woman! James…well, just what he’s up to is anyone’s guess and Sasha….you’ve gotta feel for that girl. All are such fascinating characters that’s for sure.

“I’m glad you have no idea what really happens in this world, because I’d die a little inside if you knew.”

Gitte, you and I did discuss a scene from their childhood that made us both feel a little uncomfortable with regard to the feelings expressed and age appropriateness which we still can’t completely get our head around. It was a bit of an issue for us, but didn’t hinder our enjoyment of the book.

So, if you love your stories with heat, passion, intrigue, mystery and revel in the excitement of an author who leaves you running in circles constantly trying to outguess her and her characters, then this series is for you. Another winner (even if we are still a little confused lol) from an author who has become an automatic 1click for us!

**Reviewed on ARC copy provided by the author**

Check out more reviews at : http://totallybookedblog.com/
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[Jac K · Rating 5 out of 5]

**The Dirty, Dark and Deadly series has been re-released in KU as one book called The Company. I’m only writing one review for all 3 books. (Come, Come Back, Coming for You) I believe this says it can read as a standalone, but you are going to be missing information because this storyline was introduced in Spencer’s book, and won’t be complete until Wasted Lust: Sasha (8) . I’ll add a link to a summary of all the books at the end.**

Spoilers from Guns: The Spencer Book

If death is a deal, then love is a promise.

To catch everyone up, at the end of Spencer’s book, we learned that Bobby Mansi was actually Company assassin James Fenici AKA Tet & Six. He killed his evil brother Tony as a debt to Merc, who had a debt to Ford. Tony was Ford’s wife, Ashleigh's fiancé and Baby Kate’s biological father. During this standoff, Ashleigh's sis, Amber was killed by Tony. James had loved Amber, but left her so she’d marry another. He also killed the crooked FBI agent in prison so the gang didn’t have to go to trial. At the end while speaking to Merc, he stated that he had failed his psych eval, and was being sent somewhere for a vacation.

If I tell you to walk through fire, it’s because I know beyond a doubt that you are fireproof. If I tell you to take a bullet, it’s because I know that you are bulletproof. If I tell you to walk away from me, it’s because you know I will come back for you. No matter what I tell you to do, you will do it, and you will be safe because I said so. Because I love you. Because you trust my love.”

The Company follows 28-yr-old Company assassin James, and 18-yr-old Company girl Harper, and is my favorite book of the series. The next three books have more of an action/secret organization vibe to it rather than just focusing on the relationship aspect that we saw in the other Rook & Ronin books. Sasha is also in the mix, and we get a lot of background on her. (She met Ford in his book, and he learned that her father was killed) So to break it down…

James is a smidge crazy, he was given to the Company by his parents, and has been an assassin since he was 16. He also spent some time being tortured when he was captured during a mission.
Harper is the Admiral (boss of Company) and has lived secretly on a boat. She’s been sheltered to a certain degree, but has some combat skills that she learned from her twin, Nick. (His storyline completes in Sasha’s book)
Sasha is a 13-yr-old orphan that has been trained by her father, a Company assassin trainer. They’ve lived off-grid in a RV traveling as arms dealers.

“This isn’t your fight, lionfish. This one’s mine. So save your moves for something else.” And then he kisses my mouth and slaps my ass. “I got this. The only thing I want you to do is let me fuck you. Let me make this world safe for us. And let me keep you forever.”

This is a long one, and there’re a lot of moving parts, but I enjoyed it. I really like fictional crazy H’s that are nutso, but love their women. There’re so many twisty turns, and I was eating it up.

Bottom Line- Great read for me, but if you hated the second ½ of Spencer’s book then you might not like this one. *All the books are listed HERE.

******Original Review****
VERY Confusing to figure out which book!!!
I believe these books Come... Come back and Coming to you are now part of the Rook and Ronin series under The Company. This is just my guess since I can't find these books and The Company is 662 pages about James and Harper:) Ms. Huss has re-released, renamed her books many times, so if your as confused as me hopefully this will help.
Tragic, manic & Panic = Rook and Ronin
Slack & Taut = Ford
Bomb & Guns = Spencer
Come, Come Back & Coming to you = The Company
Meet me in the Dark = Merc

James was introduced previously in the book Guns which I believe was Spencer's final book. He was the brother of Tony (Ford's wife's ex) and dating her sister. You don't have to read it first but it will set up this series much better if you do.

Both James are Harper have ties to the company. There are many twist and turns and it is a great read.

[a_tiffyfit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come. But just know that Dirty, Dark, and Deadly are spot on. <3 And...it's a cliffhanger. Next book due in November or so, I believe!
******************

COME BACK is the second book in the Dirty, Dark, & Deadly series. COME is the first book, which first was published in the (now banned) BEND Anthology by The Erotica Consortium. You can buy COME for 99cents at amazon: http://bit.ly/ComeJAHuss.

Okay, so here's the thing. You can read this series completely on its own. But for full enjoyment, I recommend reading the OTHER Huss series. It has little strings that dangle into this series. Are they completely necessary? No, not really. Will you feel like an awesome insider because you have the knowledge of what James is talking about from his past? You betcha!

So, here's a quick recap of recommended reading, but know that you CAN just read this series without the others.

Rook & Ronin series
Tragic
Manic
Panic

Ford Aston
Slack (Get a peek at Sasha and Merc)
Taut

Spencer Shrike (Oh, hello, James!)
Bomb
Guns

And now onto COME BACK: much like the twisty plot we saw in Guns, there are little mysteries all wrapped up in our characters. James leaves Harper to go pick up a package as a favor to Merc. It's not often that Merc asks for favors, so James is definitely happy to have a favor to dangle over Merc. He's a tad surprised however to discover that the package is in the form of a feisty thirteen year old girl who looks like she's been living in the wild. And that package immediately ticks him off by shooting an arrow at him.

And we're off!

Sasha Cherlin is sassy, feisty, smart-mouthed, and yet still has a bit of that innocent little girl about her. She's been dealt a rotten hand, has more knowledge than James and Harper do, and is a little lethal package, searching for revenge. Harper Tate is drawn to James Fenici, a little lost without her brother, lethal when it comes to hand-to-hand combat, useless when it comes to shooting a gun or even driving a car, and is desperate to get out of the Company to avoid being sold to a man for marriage. James is on leave from the Company, or so he thinks. After failing the psych evaluation after his latest hit, he's told to go to the beach and relax. But how can he when things keep popping up from his past, when people who are supposed to be dead are shooting at him?

The heat between Harper and James is scorching. There are some sex scenes in here that will have you fanning your face. However, they are not the driving force behind this story and that's what I love about JA Huss books. It isn't written to get you from sex scene 1 to sex scene 2. Instead, there's this whole looming cloud of a story with little lightning flashes of revelation that keep the story moving forward.

It's hard to categorize this story and slap a label on it. Is it a mystery? Not really a whodunit. Is it a thriller? It DOES have lots of thrills! Is it an erotic romance? Well, yeah there are some graphic sex scenes in it. Romantic suspense? Yeah, it does have those elements, too. New Adult? Well, Harper is 18 or so and James is 28, so sure? Is it all of the above and more? Yep.

While I enjoyed reading the story unravel, I have to say that Sasha stole the show for me. She sounds so much older than she is, but then releases tiny bits of vulnerability and insecurity and absolute brattiness that just brings her back to being thirteen. She's killed. She's being chased down. She has a hit out on her. And she is forced to trust these two adult killers who are now her caretakers and partners. She knows the most, but she's not ready to let them know yet.

I said briefly in my status update on goodreads that this is a cliffhanger. It's not REALLY a cliffhanger. It doesn't quite leave you dangling. It sets us up for the next and final phase of the story (coming November 2014), but it does leave off mid-action. And made me shriek NOOOOOOO. I wasn't ready for it to be over.

Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy for review purposes.

[The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler Free Series Review

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Well what can I say other than this has signature J A Huss written all over it. Honestly, all three books in the "Dirty, Dark & Deadly" series were such a whirlwind of mind fuckery and craziness, I didn't know if I was coming or going half the time but it was brilliant because I was kept on my toes from the first page to the last, gripped by the plot that unfolded before my very eyes. You know that saying "it does what it says on the tin?" Well that can definitely be said about this series. These books were pure and utter filth, they were pretty dark at times and yes, they were oh so very deadly. It was like reading a combination of The Bourne series and La Femme Nikita. Pure brilliance with an element of romance, some very hot sex thrown in for good measure and of course a few taboo topics just to spice things up.

“You’re the perfect combination of hard and soft. Killer and lover. Sweet and deadly.”

I absolutely loved the theme of assassins and the "company." it was just genius. There were so many plot twists and curve balls and I just couldn't work out these characters to save my life. Who was lying and who was telling the truth? I wanted to believe all of the leading characters because I really did take a shine to each of them but very quickly it became obvious that they all had secrets they were hiding. I desperately tried to work out whether these were for the greater good. I tried in vain to guess possible double crossings and motives for each character but it was a hopeless task. When the characters were ready, I guess they would share. Despite all of this, I rooted for each of them as individuals, as killers, as a team and as a family (of sorts). Sounds crazy right? Well everything about this series was CRAZY!!!

If death is a deal, then love is a promise.

We first met Sasha in Ford's book and it was brilliant seeing her take on more of a leading role. This girl was something else and I rooted for the child she was but the adult she had been forced to become. The company really did have a lot to answer for.

James Finicci again was a character we met in Ford's book. We were only introduced to him briefly but boy have I loved getting to know this alpha assassin better. And Harper, this girl was seriously kick ass. In one breath she was still a young woman at eighteen discovering herself and her sexuality but in another breath, she too had been forced to grow up way to quickly, again courtesy of the company.

He kisses me like he’s the wind. Like he’s the sea. Like he’s the desert. He kisses me and he tastes like freedom.

This series was full of heroes and heroines, victims and villains and of course so much action and drama, I could see a film/ tv series being made out of the books.

What a phenomenal, fantastic, gripping, thrilling, violent, tension filled, completely addictive cluster fuck of a series that ended with such a perfect epilogue. There were so many familiar faces that came out to say hi. Wow, just wow. The whole series gets ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

We are nothing but a clusterfuck of double and triple crossings tonight.

[Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about Julie's books was the cohesiveness of her stories. It seemed like she planned, or at least it was already firmly set in her mind, how and when all of the revelations will play out. It was like she had an alternate world in her mind where she already saw or watched ( in case her mind works like movies with reels playing coz for some people it was really like that, right?) how their story started and ended, and how the characters' lives intertwined at some point.

Case in point- without giving any spoiler, she mentioned a character in Slack, just one scene, but that character made quite an impression. Then we find out in this book what happened just after that scene mentioned, and the domino effect resulted in that particular character being a key player in this book. I was just so impressed. Like I said, it was like the author already had a whole world of characters in her mind and all of them had a solid background and story just waiting to be written.

I'm probably sounding redundant but I can't help it, so I'll say it anyway.. the best way to read J.A. Huss book is to go into it blind. Just let the story unfold before your eyes. Knowing the premise of the story won't help, because she would always have twists and turns and all you thought you knew would be thrown out of the window. Just know that it would be one hell of a ride.

I can say this though:

James played a short but distinct role in Guns and piqued the curiousity of the readers. He was dirty, dark & deadly.

Harper was a girl with secrets and history that couldn't be described as innocent or normal. She was also dirty, dark & deadly.

Sasha was just a young girl who went through something tragic in her life and got entangled in something a normal kid shouldn't be involved in. She was probably on her way to becoming dirty, dark & dangerous too.

What should people like them do to change the course of their lives? How twisted should they be before they find the right path?

I honestly felt like I was playing mind games along with these characters. I was giddy, excited, anxious.. I was determined not to sleep until I get all the answers!

You don't need to read the Rook & Ronin series and the spin offs about Ford and Spencer to understand this series (though the characters here already made an appearance in those books) but why wouldn't you want to read those books? I'm telling you to trust me when I say you need to read them, because you don't often meet characters like them, and you seldom find stories like those, and there's definitely just one Julie Huss.

Come Back was twisted. The author said as much. It would make you think. It would keep you guessing. It would make you pray this wasn't a reality somewhere in this world. But it would also make you hopeful.. that even the vilest of viles had a chance at salvation; that even those immersed and soaked in darkness can find their way into the light.

This was a great read.. I was freaking tired after I finished the book, with all the emotions stirring inside me like a whirlpool, but it was a good-workout-kind-of tired. You feel satisified at the end and you can't wait to do it again.

[Misty Crook mcelroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+++++++ Dirty Dark Stars!!!

I just need to start by saying this book had my heart racing and armpits sweating from beginning to the end! JA writes such an amazing book starting with plot lines, writing amazing characters, and keeping you in absolute knots until the end! Pure brilliance!

I love the fact that you are questioning everything this entire read. One minute you think you have it and the next minute you are doubting everything. You are not sure who's good who's bad, or who or what in the hell your rooting for. It is such an amazing and complex plot that will leave you breathless!

I will start out with Harper. She is one tough cookie, but at the same time so very vulnerable. She still is so much of a mystery.


Then there is Sasha. What can I say about Sasha other than that she is a complete bad ass and I don't think I have ever loved another character as much as her. She was first introduced in Slack and she stole my heart then. She is such a tough bad ass company chick and then she is still also just a little 13 year old girl. I love her!





Then there is James.... Holy HOT Alpha male at it's finest! Gahhhhhhhh!!!!!!


This book is more than just action though. There is so much sizzling heat and sex OMG!!! JA can write a great sex scene like no other. Holy WET panties is all I can say. James and Harper's chemistry is off the charts!









In my opinion, this book has a little something for every kind of reader. I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed this book! I can't wait for #3!!! Hurry up JA!! Just to wrap this up Come Back will leave you feeling satisfied, NO cliffhanger. Although, you will still have questions as far as where JA is going to take this story next.

Well done JA! Once again you knocked it out of the park.

[IC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another ringer from J.A. Huss!!

Amazing story telling and characters. I wish I read this before I read Meet Me in the Dark but I like reading about Sasha when she was younger.

J.A. is an amazing author, please read her books. They're action packed and you never know what the character knows or planning.

[Angelina · Rating 5 out of 5]

"5 Dirty, Dark, and Deadly Stars"

[DKristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

***DISCLAIMER*** Okay, I'm still in the thick of my upper respiratory infection and I'm hoping that this review does not suffer because of that...





I give Come Back a solid 4.5 stars. The story picked up where Come left off. It was easy to catch up with what was going on and where Harper and James were. Then we get the added bonus of throwing Sasha into mix for the ride.



I enjoyed the make shift family unit they end up making, even though every one has trust issues coming out of the ass!!! They find a way to make things work as best as they can with what they have. When other players start coming into the game some we were expecting and others are a total curve ball that's when things start to get really twisty and cryptic and with my fever ridden brain I did have to read a bit more slowly and go back and read a few parts over at times.

There was some smoking HOT sex of course but the story stuck to the important pieces and didn't get lost in it. While I think Come was a great introduction it had a little more lee-way to be this smoking hot sexy intriguing read. Come Back was setting up the meat and potatoes of this series. The last book I have absolutely no doubt will be absolutely spectacular.




Harper grated my nerves a few times in this one... I didn't feel that way in Come and maybe that was because it was a shorter work and when Harper freaked out it was pretty much clear as to why. I did like that we finally got to see the type of badass that she can be in Come Back. And I was hoping maybe just a teensy tiny bit that we would get a phone call or something from Ford... but that's alright, Hopefully he'll make an appearance in book 3.

Overall, excellent read and I cannot wait to continue on. Very Well Done JA Huss!!!

Quotage:

"Hold still, Assassin Smurf,"


"I glance over at a smirking Sasha. Unlike that wild thing. She's out looking for an excuse to brawl."

"That sounds like a declaration of innocence, to me. Or at the very least, non-affiliation. And we both know that's about as far from the truth as you can get. You're nothing if not affiliated, James. You're nothing if not guilty."

"This asshole has a lot of explaining to do. He's not on my side. I'm a job to him. A dirty promise. A dark obsession, maybe."

"Lionfish. Hunter. Lover. Just like me. Killer."

"If I tell you to walk through fire, it's because I know beyond a doubt that you are fireproof. If I tell you to take a bullet, it's because I know that you are bulletproof. If I tell you to walk away from me, it's because you know I will come back for you. No matter what I tell you to do, you will do it, and you will be safe because I said so. Because I love you. Because you trust my love."

[Trisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Come Back is the second book in the Dirty, Dark, and Deadly series with the third book coming out in November. If you haven't read Come you really need to before moving on to this. You can pick up Come at http://www.amazon.com/Come-Dirty-Dark...

Here is where it gets tricky for me. You meet characters from both Come and Come Back in the Rook and Ronin series. I would suggest you start reading there first and then move on to this series so you understand the references to Merc, Ford, etc. I would start at the beginning with Tragic, Manic, and Panic, then move on to Slack & Taut, and then Bomb and Guns. Trust me when I say this will make all the references to the earlier characters easier to understand.

Now on to Come Back....The love story of Come Back is between James and Harper. Both have been brought up in a life that is hard for me to comprehend. After all these years it seems they are destined for each other. The only issue is trust and James' memory. Neither knows what to believe, what their true mission is and who is pulling the strings. Throw in a 13 year old and things really get confusing. Enter Sash and OMG I love her. I read about her in Slack and never dreamed JA would bring her back in a character I absolutely love. She is a 13 year old hunter that will steal your heart with a nickname that totally fits - Assassin Smurf. She is small but deadly.

Even though we know there is going to be a third book, Come Back does not end in a major cliffhanger. You do not feel the need to throw your book or hit JA over the head. That said it doesn't mean I wouldn't trade my next born for an early copy of book 3. The twist and turns in Come Back will have you DYING for more.