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The Fire and Smoke Duet #1
Bang & Burn
Elara:
I don’t like working with others and I work better alone anyway. But when I’m assigned to be partners with Ryder Hale, I know I really need to stay focused and solve this case. Ryder Hale is the epitome of tall, dark, and handsome but his cocky and flirtatious attitude will be the reason my eyes get stuck in the back of my head.
Ryder:
Accepting the transfer position at the DC FBI office is a good choice... I hope. I got assigned to be Elara Cassidy’s new partner and from what I’ve heard, I am in for a trip. But the more I work with her, the more I want to know her. Elara is smart, snarky, gorgeous, and a book that is sealed shut.
I don’t like working with others and I work better alone anyway. But when I’m assigned to be partners with Ryder Hale, I know I really need to stay focused and solve this case. Ryder Hale is the epitome of tall, dark, and handsome but his cocky and flirtatious attitude will be the reason my eyes get stuck in the back of my head.
Ryder:
Accepting the transfer position at the DC FBI office is a good choice... I hope. I got assigned to be Elara Cassidy’s new partner and from what I’ve heard, I am in for a trip. But the more I work with her, the more I want to know her. Elara is smart, snarky, gorgeous, and a book that is sealed shut.
- GenresDark RomanceSmutRomance
136 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2024
4 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Nicole
3 books25 followersLindsey was born and raised in Tampa, FL. She loves reading and writing (go figure). She fell in love with writing poetry and fiction in high school when she discovered creative writing, but after graduation, writing became more of a hobby. Having trouble finding her path in college and she was reintroduced to the writing community and her major was changed the next day. Ask her if she made the right decision and she'll tell you it was the best one she's ever made. If she isn't reading, she's writing and vise versa.
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November 18, 2024Listen, I tried so hard to like this, but I just simply can't. Although I should be more understanding given that this is the author's debut novel, I found the story progression and plot to be completely disjointed.
Tbh, it was the writing style that utterly tanked this whole thing. I'm really sorry, but it just wasn't good. 😭 Although I'm not a writer (far from it), I have to say that this style is really bad. 🫣
Aside from the all over the place plot, there's a lack of consistency in how the MCs are portrayed. I believe the FMC is meant to be grumpy and closed off, but she hasn't come across that way so far. And, while I understand that the MMC is new, his behavior makes him appear more inexperienced than a trained agent. They both appear to be untrained in high-stakes scenarios, acting childishly toward each other, and lacking a sense of professionalism. The majority of their actions did not appear to be well thought out. I'm really confused about where the author is taking her characters. Like, what was she really going for with them?
Despite being only a novella in length, I had a really hard time getting through this book. It seems like the whole story could've been told in just one book, so I don't get why it's being presented as a duet instead. 🤷♀️
Anyway, if this writing style continues in the second part, I may just skip it entirely. At the very least, I know the villain will be punished and the MCs will end up together (this has a HEA after all), which is more than enough for me.
Overall, it didn't work for me. Despite this, I still think the author has room to grow as a writer, so I'll keep an eye out for her future works.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Ms. Nicole for the ARC.
Tbh, it was the writing style that utterly tanked this whole thing. I'm really sorry, but it just wasn't good. 😭 Although I'm not a writer (far from it), I have to say that this style is really bad. 🫣
Aside from the all over the place plot, there's a lack of consistency in how the MCs are portrayed. I believe the FMC is meant to be grumpy and closed off, but she hasn't come across that way so far. And, while I understand that the MMC is new, his behavior makes him appear more inexperienced than a trained agent. They both appear to be untrained in high-stakes scenarios, acting childishly toward each other, and lacking a sense of professionalism. The majority of their actions did not appear to be well thought out. I'm really confused about where the author is taking her characters. Like, what was she really going for with them?
Despite being only a novella in length, I had a really hard time getting through this book. It seems like the whole story could've been told in just one book, so I don't get why it's being presented as a duet instead. 🤷♀️
Anyway, if this writing style continues in the second part, I may just skip it entirely. At the very least, I know the villain will be punished and the MCs will end up together (this has a HEA after all), which is more than enough for me.
Overall, it didn't work for me. Despite this, I still think the author has room to grow as a writer, so I'll keep an eye out for her future works.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Ms. Nicole for the ARC.
March 14, 2025
╭ ✦ •
│ ⊹ 𝟺 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜 ⊹
╰ ✦ •
Short and sweet
It was a little Wattpad-y, and it definitely needed formatting (the dialogue for the characters blended in a way where it was a little hard to tell who said what) but I was hooked either way!
The romance was nice, with great smut. I enjoyed Elara + Ryder’s budding romance
The characters felt rough, and very 2D; not a lot of depth but on the surface level, and with how short this book was, they were decent characters.
I liked the twist at the end.
Interesting story that holds a lot of potential.
I’m looking forward to reading the next in the Duet
────── ✧ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ♡ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ✧ ──────
⊹ 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽 ⊹
❥FBI Partners
❥Traveling
❥Forced Proximity
❥"Fuck it" moment
❥"Good Girl"
❥"Do you want this?"
❥Spicy mirror time
❥praise kink
❥"Princess"
❥One Bed
❥Touch her and d!e
❥He falls first and harder
❥Looks like she'll kill you
❥Cinamon roll FMC
Thank you for the ARC, Lindsey!
_________________________________
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
│ ⊹ 𝟺 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜 ⊹
╰ ✦ •
Short and sweet
It was a little Wattpad-y, and it definitely needed formatting (the dialogue for the characters blended in a way where it was a little hard to tell who said what) but I was hooked either way!
The romance was nice, with great smut. I enjoyed Elara + Ryder’s budding romance
The characters felt rough, and very 2D; not a lot of depth but on the surface level, and with how short this book was, they were decent characters.
I liked the twist at the end.
Interesting story that holds a lot of potential.
I’m looking forward to reading the next in the Duet
────── ✧ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ♡ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ✧ ──────
⊹ 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽 ⊹
❥FBI Partners
❥Traveling
❥Forced Proximity
❥"Fuck it" moment
❥"Good Girl"
❥"Do you want this?"
❥Spicy mirror time
❥praise kink
❥"Princess"
❥One Bed
❥Touch her and d!e
❥He falls first and harder
❥Looks like she'll kill you
❥Cinamon roll FMC
Thank you for the ARC, Lindsey!
_________________________________
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
February 10, 2025
“good for me, this guy has the aim of a stormtrooper in using a semi-automatic.”
the quote above is genuinely the only time i laughed during this book. granted, i know it’s not a rom-com or a comedy, but still.
this book was entirely too fast-paced for the overall plot. i don’t think i’ve said this in a review before, but this book should have been much longer. the whole fbi, murder mystery, cracking a case, etc plot cannot (in my opinion) be shoved into a book that’s less than 130 pages.
as for the characters, i have no idea what their backgrounds are. there is very little character development, and i honestly found the fmc very immature and annoying. more, all we really know about the mmc is that he’s heavily tattooed, “knows how to cook”, and does the bare minimum for his love interest.
also, apparently the contents of this book happened in the span of 3.5 weeks (as per a quote from the book) yet the readers have no indication of the passing of time or when the story is taking place at any given point.
all that being said, this felt very wattpad-y and rushed. if there was more time taken to really flesh out the story and draw it out like i think it should have been, it would read better and make much more sense. given that i’ve received the arc for book 2 and did not enjoy this book, i am very nervous.
the quote above is genuinely the only time i laughed during this book. granted, i know it’s not a rom-com or a comedy, but still.
this book was entirely too fast-paced for the overall plot. i don’t think i’ve said this in a review before, but this book should have been much longer. the whole fbi, murder mystery, cracking a case, etc plot cannot (in my opinion) be shoved into a book that’s less than 130 pages.
as for the characters, i have no idea what their backgrounds are. there is very little character development, and i honestly found the fmc very immature and annoying. more, all we really know about the mmc is that he’s heavily tattooed, “knows how to cook”, and does the bare minimum for his love interest.
also, apparently the contents of this book happened in the span of 3.5 weeks (as per a quote from the book) yet the readers have no indication of the passing of time or when the story is taking place at any given point.
all that being said, this felt very wattpad-y and rushed. if there was more time taken to really flesh out the story and draw it out like i think it should have been, it would read better and make much more sense. given that i’ve received the arc for book 2 and did not enjoy this book, i am very nervous.
November 18, 2024
Elara and Ryder are FBI agents assigned to a case involving a missing agent. Elara prefers to work alone and is paired up with a rookie on the latest case.
Insert action and instalust in this fast paced romantic suspense. This is a quick read that you will devour in one sitting and I can’t wait to see where the partnership goes in book 2!
Thank you to the author, Lindsey Nicole, and Luna Literacy for the opportunity to read this book. I received an EPUB and my review is being left voluntarily.
Insert action and instalust in this fast paced romantic suspense. This is a quick read that you will devour in one sitting and I can’t wait to see where the partnership goes in book 2!
Thank you to the author, Lindsey Nicole, and Luna Literacy for the opportunity to read this book. I received an EPUB and my review is being left voluntarily.
November 25, 2024
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ↴
*sigh* I truly wanted to enjoy this more than I did. I was super excited when I read the blurb, and the whole concept was great, but I think the dialogue was a little too juvenile for me. I honestly felt like I was back in middle school reading a Wattpad story.
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫 ↴
This is an Advanced Reader copy. Although this book was given to me as an ARC my thoughts are my own. Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 ✎
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⇝ ★★☆☆☆
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 ⇝ 127
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭 ⇝ e-Book
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 ⇝ Nov. 11th
🫧 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 📖
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ↴
*sigh* I truly wanted to enjoy this more than I did. I was super excited when I read the blurb, and the whole concept was great, but I think the dialogue was a little too juvenile for me. I honestly felt like I was back in middle school reading a Wattpad story.
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫 ↴
This is an Advanced Reader copy. Although this book was given to me as an ARC my thoughts are my own. Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 ✎
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⇝ ★★☆☆☆
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 ⇝ 127
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭 ⇝ e-Book
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 ⇝ Nov. 11th
🫧 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 📖
November 22, 2024
I was really excited to read this, but unfortunately it fell flat. I commend the author for their debut novel, because I could never in my wildest dreams write a novella/novel.
However, the characters and plot needed to be much more fleshed out. The concept is a good one, the storyline grabbed my attention immediately when I read the blurb, but once in the thick of it, I could not enjoy it.
Thank you to Lindsey and Luna Literary for allowing me the chance to be an honest ARC reader and to provide my honest opinions on this book.
However, the characters and plot needed to be much more fleshed out. The concept is a good one, the storyline grabbed my attention immediately when I read the blurb, but once in the thick of it, I could not enjoy it.
Thank you to Lindsey and Luna Literary for allowing me the chance to be an honest ARC reader and to provide my honest opinions on this book.
December 6, 2024
This book is a great for a debut novel.
Elara, an FBI agent doesn’t want a partner but she was assigned a rookie agent, Ryder. When they were assigned to investigate a fellow agent, turns out their lives are at stake and they need to combine forces to stay alive.
It was so fast-paced that we were immediately thrown in the action. The writing style’s took me a while to get used to because it was very direct and to the point. Everything was a matter-of-fact.
I felt like I was watching a movie especially with all the action scenes.
However, both main characters were attracted to each other physically. I really didn’t feel any love between them considering it felt very superficial but as we go along the story, we kinda saw more of their dynamic.
I was def shookt that there’s gonna be a second book considering how short this book was, but no complaints from me because I am patiently waiting for the second book now.
Elara, an FBI agent doesn’t want a partner but she was assigned a rookie agent, Ryder. When they were assigned to investigate a fellow agent, turns out their lives are at stake and they need to combine forces to stay alive.
It was so fast-paced that we were immediately thrown in the action. The writing style’s took me a while to get used to because it was very direct and to the point. Everything was a matter-of-fact.
I felt like I was watching a movie especially with all the action scenes.
However, both main characters were attracted to each other physically. I really didn’t feel any love between them considering it felt very superficial but as we go along the story, we kinda saw more of their dynamic.
I was def shookt that there’s gonna be a second book considering how short this book was, but no complaints from me because I am patiently waiting for the second book now.
November 12, 2024
When I was approved for this ARC, I was excited to read it. The idea and the description is what drew me to it. I understand that this is the author's debut novel, but it lacked dimension and content.
Plot: Elara is an FBI agent who doesn't play well with others. Every partner that she has had has left because of her attitude. Therefore, her captain places her with a partner. Enter Ryder. They are sent to investigate a case about another missing FBI agent. While investigating, Elara becomes the target and finds herself in a game of cat and mouse. Her and Ryder go on the run so as not to get captured and killed. Will they figure out who is chasing them or will they become the dead mouse?
First off, let's discuss what was good about this story. The story was fast-paced which was nice. I never found myself getting bored with the story. The main characters were likable and had a few redeeming qualities. The action scenes were good and there was some spice in the book.
Even though this book did have some good things, there were also a few things that fell flat for me. I found the characters and storyline 2 dimensional. I feel like there could have been more insight as to what happened with Elara's past partners to explain why they didn't want to work with her any longer. Also, insta-love is not a favorite for me so when she was introduced to Ryder and he immediately fell head over heels, I was turned off. Even though the pace was fast, I feel at times that it was moving too fast. There were quite a few grammatical errors, POV issues, and tense issues. I struggled with figuring out who was talking quite a bit of the time due to the formatting of the story.
Then the entire section where Elara and Ryder get jabbed with the syringe. The story goes from them sitting in a closed and locked hotel room to getting drugged. It is never addressed how anyone got into the room and it didn't make any sense to me. If they were in a locked hotel room and had never left the room, how did this person who drugged them get into the room without either Elara or Ryder hearing them or seeing them come in?? Also, the Ryder chapter towards the end with the short intermission. What was that supposed to be?
Overall, I gave it 3 stars due to the fact that it was a debut novel for an indie author. However, I think that there is a lot of work to be done and progress to be made prior to the second book coming out.
Plot: Elara is an FBI agent who doesn't play well with others. Every partner that she has had has left because of her attitude. Therefore, her captain places her with a partner. Enter Ryder. They are sent to investigate a case about another missing FBI agent. While investigating, Elara becomes the target and finds herself in a game of cat and mouse. Her and Ryder go on the run so as not to get captured and killed. Will they figure out who is chasing them or will they become the dead mouse?
First off, let's discuss what was good about this story. The story was fast-paced which was nice. I never found myself getting bored with the story. The main characters were likable and had a few redeeming qualities. The action scenes were good and there was some spice in the book.
Even though this book did have some good things, there were also a few things that fell flat for me. I found the characters and storyline 2 dimensional. I feel like there could have been more insight as to what happened with Elara's past partners to explain why they didn't want to work with her any longer. Also, insta-love is not a favorite for me so when she was introduced to Ryder and he immediately fell head over heels, I was turned off. Even though the pace was fast, I feel at times that it was moving too fast. There were quite a few grammatical errors, POV issues, and tense issues. I struggled with figuring out who was talking quite a bit of the time due to the formatting of the story.
Then the entire section where Elara and Ryder get jabbed with the syringe. The story goes from them sitting in a closed and locked hotel room to getting drugged. It is never addressed how anyone got into the room and it didn't make any sense to me. If they were in a locked hotel room and had never left the room, how did this person who drugged them get into the room without either Elara or Ryder hearing them or seeing them come in?? Also, the Ryder chapter towards the end with the short intermission. What was that supposed to be?
Overall, I gave it 3 stars due to the fact that it was a debut novel for an indie author. However, I think that there is a lot of work to be done and progress to be made prior to the second book coming out.
November 18, 2024
I was really hoping to like this, and I was actually excited because the blurb was really well-written, and that's why this wasn't a DNF for me. Unfortunately, I just could not get into this.
The premise was good. Both of our characters are newly-assigned FBI partners, working on a case together for the first time. There's forced proximity, one bed, "touch her and die", and he falls first tropes.
However, this was not what I was expecting.
I finished this feeling so confused, and I don't even know where to start with this review, so I'll just write down the notes I took while reading this book:
- I know I'm already in the middle of the book but I swear nothing has even happened, and yet they're already all over each other... I feel like I'm missing a few chapters.
- I reviewed the pages - only one action scene and then their undercover thing - so, I definitely did not miss anything...
- There wasn't any talks of attraction except for that one makeout scene when they were undercover...
- Chalking this up to being fast-paced and insta-lust, then(?)
🎯 Overall:
I'll just summarize this: there was more sex than action, which I didn't expect at all. And, the action scenes just fell flat. I'm sorry to say, but I think the author wanted to write action, but didn't really have any background on doing so. The plot was, unfortunately, all over the place and really didn't keep my attention.
Still, thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest thoughts on this ARC read.
The premise was good. Both of our characters are newly-assigned FBI partners, working on a case together for the first time. There's forced proximity, one bed, "touch her and die", and he falls first tropes.
However, this was not what I was expecting.
I finished this feeling so confused, and I don't even know where to start with this review, so I'll just write down the notes I took while reading this book:
- I know I'm already in the middle of the book but I swear nothing has even happened, and yet they're already all over each other... I feel like I'm missing a few chapters.
- I reviewed the pages - only one action scene and then their undercover thing - so, I definitely did not miss anything...
- There wasn't any talks of attraction except for that one makeout scene when they were undercover...
- Chalking this up to being fast-paced and insta-lust, then(?)
🎯 Overall:
I'll just summarize this: there was more sex than action, which I didn't expect at all. And, the action scenes just fell flat. I'm sorry to say, but I think the author wanted to write action, but didn't really have any background on doing so. The plot was, unfortunately, all over the place and really didn't keep my attention.
Still, thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest thoughts on this ARC read.
November 21, 2024
For a debut novel, this was really good. It was short, fast-paced, and provided a sort of good balance between the romance and suspense. It definitely keeps you hooked throughout, and I finished it in one sitting.
The story follows Elara, an FBI agent who doesn't get along well with partners and prefers to work alone. However, she doesn't get a say in the matter when Ryder, who has just been transferred to DC, is assigned as her new partner.
As the two are assigned a time-sensitive case involving the disappearance of another agent, they set out to find out what went down. As the two start following the leads, they start forming some semblance of partnership despite Elara's efforts to keep Ryder at arm's length. But things start to get messy the more they dive deeper into the case, and these two seem to have gotten themselves caught up in the midst of something much bigger.
There's still a lot to learn about Elara and Ryder since not a lot about their personal lives or histories was gotten into. Hopefully that will be explored in the next book to give the characters more depth.
I did like how the two started trusting and depending on each other as partners and kind of fell into it right from the start. These two worked really well as a team to figure out the case and what they were up against. I really loved the mystery around the case they were solving and how the two went about getting to the bottom of it. There were some twists and turns, and this story definitely keeps you on the edge.
Although I felt like the relationship between Ryder and Elara progressed far too quickly given Elara's whole stance on working alone and not doing well with partners or being difficult to work with. I didn't find her being difficult to work with, so I wish there was a bit more hostility from Elara's side, if only to prove the point of her not liking to rely on a partner.
The romance between them seemed to progress too quickly given how long they'd known each other, and I wish it had taken a little more time for them to get into that aspect as the story progressed. Although they were good together, I just wish there was something more. Like a much deeper connection or more heartfelt conversations.
The spice was so fucking good. Ryder and his filthy mouth and the way he took control were so hot. There were quite a few spicy scenes, which were all amazing.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and I'm really eager to see how these two get themselves out of the situation they are in. I won't say more and give anything away, but it definitely is a fun, intense, and quick read.
Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Elara, an FBI agent who doesn't get along well with partners and prefers to work alone. However, she doesn't get a say in the matter when Ryder, who has just been transferred to DC, is assigned as her new partner.
As the two are assigned a time-sensitive case involving the disappearance of another agent, they set out to find out what went down. As the two start following the leads, they start forming some semblance of partnership despite Elara's efforts to keep Ryder at arm's length. But things start to get messy the more they dive deeper into the case, and these two seem to have gotten themselves caught up in the midst of something much bigger.
There's still a lot to learn about Elara and Ryder since not a lot about their personal lives or histories was gotten into. Hopefully that will be explored in the next book to give the characters more depth.
I did like how the two started trusting and depending on each other as partners and kind of fell into it right from the start. These two worked really well as a team to figure out the case and what they were up against. I really loved the mystery around the case they were solving and how the two went about getting to the bottom of it. There were some twists and turns, and this story definitely keeps you on the edge.
Although I felt like the relationship between Ryder and Elara progressed far too quickly given Elara's whole stance on working alone and not doing well with partners or being difficult to work with. I didn't find her being difficult to work with, so I wish there was a bit more hostility from Elara's side, if only to prove the point of her not liking to rely on a partner.
The romance between them seemed to progress too quickly given how long they'd known each other, and I wish it had taken a little more time for them to get into that aspect as the story progressed. Although they were good together, I just wish there was something more. Like a much deeper connection or more heartfelt conversations.
The spice was so fucking good. Ryder and his filthy mouth and the way he took control were so hot. There were quite a few spicy scenes, which were all amazing.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and I'm really eager to see how these two get themselves out of the situation they are in. I won't say more and give anything away, but it definitely is a fun, intense, and quick read.
Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2024
Elara & Ryder 4⭐️
Firstly shoutout to Lindsey Nicole bc there is a DICKTIONARY!
Such an amazing debut novel! This was such a fun book and would consider it an action packed romance.
Elara and Ryder had an undeniable connection from the start and grew from partners to I don't know what I would do without you. It was extremely fast-paced ramp which I didn't mind personally but can see how others might more of the *falling for each other* part.
This book didn't feel predictable to me one bit which is one of the things I loved most about it. I was constantly on edge wondering what was going to happen next.
There were some spacing/formatting issues but the content of the book itself was amazing.
I wished it was longer and am SO excited for the next book to come out.
Thank you so much to Luna Literacy & Nicole for the ARC! I can't wait to celebrate your release day!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book 1 of 2!
Releasing November 11th 2024 yay!!!
Tropes:
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Touch Her and Die
"F it" Moment
FBI Partners
Firstly shoutout to Lindsey Nicole bc there is a DICKTIONARY!
Such an amazing debut novel! This was such a fun book and would consider it an action packed romance.
Elara and Ryder had an undeniable connection from the start and grew from partners to I don't know what I would do without you. It was extremely fast-paced ramp which I didn't mind personally but can see how others might more of the *falling for each other* part.
This book didn't feel predictable to me one bit which is one of the things I loved most about it. I was constantly on edge wondering what was going to happen next.
There were some spacing/formatting issues but the content of the book itself was amazing.
I wished it was longer and am SO excited for the next book to come out.
Thank you so much to Luna Literacy & Nicole for the ARC! I can't wait to celebrate your release day!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book 1 of 2!
Releasing November 11th 2024 yay!!!
Tropes:
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Touch Her and Die
"F it" Moment
FBI Partners
November 19, 2024
This one wasn’t for me.
It felt like it couldn’t decide if it was a mystery/crime book or a romance so it kind of skimmed both.
I love me a spicy book, but this just felt like spice was added for absolutely no reason.
If it was a crime book with some spice, the crime elements were really lacking.
If this was a romance with some mystery/crime, the romance elements were really lacking.
There were certain aspects of the authors writing style that I struggled with, particularly the repetitive use of first names in conversation; it just felt really unnatural and took me out of the story.
I also found the way it was formatted, with two “voices” running into each other in the same paragraph unnecessarily confusing at times.
Normally I get to the end of a book like this, with a cliffhanger, even if I didn’t adore the book, I usually can’t wait to find out what happens. But this time, I’m just not invested. The characters didn’t draw me in and make me want more.
Not a winner for me.
It felt like it couldn’t decide if it was a mystery/crime book or a romance so it kind of skimmed both.
I love me a spicy book, but this just felt like spice was added for absolutely no reason.
If it was a crime book with some spice, the crime elements were really lacking.
If this was a romance with some mystery/crime, the romance elements were really lacking.
There were certain aspects of the authors writing style that I struggled with, particularly the repetitive use of first names in conversation; it just felt really unnatural and took me out of the story.
I also found the way it was formatted, with two “voices” running into each other in the same paragraph unnecessarily confusing at times.
Normally I get to the end of a book like this, with a cliffhanger, even if I didn’t adore the book, I usually can’t wait to find out what happens. But this time, I’m just not invested. The characters didn’t draw me in and make me want more.
Not a winner for me.
February 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
November 16, 2024
Honestly, just no
November 18, 2024
This one was okay but a bit all over the place for me. The dialogue feels like it needs work and I’m unsure if it was just formatting (thank you for the arc!) or something deeper, but it was very confusing when reading to know who was saying what. I had a hard time staying focused and engaged.
I also didn’t love that it was insta love. I can usually get behind it but this one just didn’t really work for me unfortunately. The FMC felt phoney and like she was 2 people. I think her FBI persona was supposed to be a mask but it felt like that was an after thought with how her relationship developed with the MMC.
The concept was really interesting though and I think it could be a fun series with the way this one ended. If the dialogue stuff gets sorted and the characters are developed a bit more, I can see this being a hit for a lot of people.
I also didn’t love that it was insta love. I can usually get behind it but this one just didn’t really work for me unfortunately. The FMC felt phoney and like she was 2 people. I think her FBI persona was supposed to be a mask but it felt like that was an after thought with how her relationship developed with the MMC.
The concept was really interesting though and I think it could be a fun series with the way this one ended. If the dialogue stuff gets sorted and the characters are developed a bit more, I can see this being a hit for a lot of people.
November 18, 2024
Bang & Burn is a romantic FBI suspense by debut author Lindsey Nicole. I was incredibly excited when I heard about the plot and tropes for this book and couldn't wait to read it. This is book 1 of 2, and while it's as short as a novella, it's packed full of action.
This book had a ton of potential, however it was full of formatting issues. The writing was also quite choppy and robotic, almost one dimensional. To me it read like a script, where it was all telling and no showing whatsoever. It felt rushed and everything within the plot happened instantaneously.
Again, this had so much potential but lacked everything needed to get there. I believe with more time, Ms. Nicole's writing can grow exponentially.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Lindsey Nicole for the ARC.
This book had a ton of potential, however it was full of formatting issues. The writing was also quite choppy and robotic, almost one dimensional. To me it read like a script, where it was all telling and no showing whatsoever. It felt rushed and everything within the plot happened instantaneously.
Again, this had so much potential but lacked everything needed to get there. I believe with more time, Ms. Nicole's writing can grow exponentially.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Lindsey Nicole for the ARC.
October 29, 2024
ARC Review - I was high lighting by page 15 , because the MMC is a freaking gentle soul doing polite and delicious manly things.
Funny lines that made you chuckle as well , like the accents idea LOL.
Felt like a solid FBI book that has depth and then build of the relationship . I legit did not see the villain coming , so KUDOS to the author.
Funny lines that made you chuckle as well , like the accents idea LOL.
Felt like a solid FBI book that has depth and then build of the relationship . I legit did not see the villain coming , so KUDOS to the author.
November 7, 2024
This is a fast paced, short & spicy debut from author Lindsay Nicole.
El and Ryder. Paired together, much to Elara’s displeasure as she doesn’t do partners but surface to say this time things work out, at least in one respect!
Lindsey has captured everything you’d want from a short romantic thriller. Lots of action on the go, character relatable when sensitively dealing with anxiety issues & it’s nicely spicy when the MC’s give into to their mutual attraction. There is a bit of a cliffhanger with this being a duet but I’m keen to see where things go for the MC’s & how it will all be resolved!
El and Ryder. Paired together, much to Elara’s displeasure as she doesn’t do partners but surface to say this time things work out, at least in one respect!
Lindsey has captured everything you’d want from a short romantic thriller. Lots of action on the go, character relatable when sensitively dealing with anxiety issues & it’s nicely spicy when the MC’s give into to their mutual attraction. There is a bit of a cliffhanger with this being a duet but I’m keen to see where things go for the MC’s & how it will all be resolved!
November 23, 2024
ARC Review
Rating: 2/5 stars
Spice: 1/5
I'm disappointed to say this, but this book wasn't for me. This is book 1 of 2, but I'm not sure if I will be reading book 2. The concept was good, but it lacked in both the crime area and the romance area. I didn't feel any chemistry between either character and wished they had more depth to their personalities.
The plot also felt rushed and unorganized. I found myself needing to reread a chapter to figure out what was happening or why something happened. I do think that this author has a lot of potential as this is their first book.
Rating: 2/5 stars
Spice: 1/5
I'm disappointed to say this, but this book wasn't for me. This is book 1 of 2, but I'm not sure if I will be reading book 2. The concept was good, but it lacked in both the crime area and the romance area. I didn't feel any chemistry between either character and wished they had more depth to their personalities.
The plot also felt rushed and unorganized. I found myself needing to reread a chapter to figure out what was happening or why something happened. I do think that this author has a lot of potential as this is their first book.
November 24, 2024
ARC 7- BANG & BURN
Author- LINDSEY NICOLE
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre- FBI, murder, one bed, touch her and die, he falls first and harder, partners in FBI, looks like she’ll kill you but is a cinnamon roll, dislike-friends-lovers (for her, always from like for him), forced proximity.
Trigger warning- shooting, murder, suicide
Blurb:
Elara:
I don’t like working with others and I work better alone anyway. But when I’m assigned to be partners with Ryder Hale, I know I really need to stay focused and solve this case. Ryder Hale is the epitome of tall, dark, and handsome but his cocky and flirtatious attitude will be the reason my eyes get stuck in the back of my head.
Ryder:
Accepting the transfer position at the DC FBI office is a good choice... I hope. I got assigned to be Elara Cassidy’s new partner and from what I’ve heard, I am in for a trip. But the more I work with her, the more I want to know her. Elara is smart, snarky, gorgeous, and a book that is sealed shut.
Plot:
The book opens with the following words- I don’t need a partner, I don’t want one, period. Words rightfully said by our FMC Elara Cassidy. Funny how she eats them later.
Elara Cassidy, FBI agent is a lone wolf. Her previous partners and her never lasted together for long, someone left first. She preferred being a lone wolf. She was an introvert. She didn’t do relationships. However, there were moments where she longed to be a bit outgoing, to connect and have people with and for her, the way others did and had.
The first step towards change happened when her boss, Orson Hartwell called her to office on her day off for now comes Ryder Hale, her new partner. Elara is confident that he won’t stay for long. Ryder, her cocky, handsome (much to her displeasure) partner is confident that he will stay for long. She never found the suitable partner, hence her being the lone wolf- his words.
They are immediately sent to London on a case. One of their agents went missing when he and his partner were sent to investigate the apparent suicide case of a Congressman. What was supposed to be a simple straightforward mission turns out to be as deep and dark as the ocean. There is a powerful traitor amongst them. The traitor was counting on Elara’s lone wolf trait to make her the scapegoat. Hence, her being sent to London. The only hitch in the plan was Ryder.
Elara escapes with Ryder’s help. So does the traitor who announces them on public television as traitors and fugitives on the run. This is where book one ends. There is a lot more to the case. To know what happens, stay tuned for the second book in this duet.
Opinion:
The plot is very intriguing, argue with the wall. I loved the core plot. The author has devoted her full mind towards drafting the plot. It’s not easy to write a book. It is NOT at all easy to write a book set in the Intelligence Department. Kudos to her for this feat. The characters are also amazing. Elara is a tough cookie, but she is extremely sweet on the inside. Ryder..whew, the man will make you sweat at times. The sudden twists and turns at every nook and corner will consume the reader, just like the blackhole. And then the sudden shock at the end- there is a part two. Cue the frustrated tears of the reader because we have to wait for the second book.
Also, the names of the first and second book are amazing!! They themselves will attract the reader towards it.
Author- LINDSEY NICOLE
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre- FBI, murder, one bed, touch her and die, he falls first and harder, partners in FBI, looks like she’ll kill you but is a cinnamon roll, dislike-friends-lovers (for her, always from like for him), forced proximity.
Trigger warning- shooting, murder, suicide
Blurb:
Elara:
I don’t like working with others and I work better alone anyway. But when I’m assigned to be partners with Ryder Hale, I know I really need to stay focused and solve this case. Ryder Hale is the epitome of tall, dark, and handsome but his cocky and flirtatious attitude will be the reason my eyes get stuck in the back of my head.
Ryder:
Accepting the transfer position at the DC FBI office is a good choice... I hope. I got assigned to be Elara Cassidy’s new partner and from what I’ve heard, I am in for a trip. But the more I work with her, the more I want to know her. Elara is smart, snarky, gorgeous, and a book that is sealed shut.
Plot:
The book opens with the following words- I don’t need a partner, I don’t want one, period. Words rightfully said by our FMC Elara Cassidy. Funny how she eats them later.
Elara Cassidy, FBI agent is a lone wolf. Her previous partners and her never lasted together for long, someone left first. She preferred being a lone wolf. She was an introvert. She didn’t do relationships. However, there were moments where she longed to be a bit outgoing, to connect and have people with and for her, the way others did and had.
The first step towards change happened when her boss, Orson Hartwell called her to office on her day off for now comes Ryder Hale, her new partner. Elara is confident that he won’t stay for long. Ryder, her cocky, handsome (much to her displeasure) partner is confident that he will stay for long. She never found the suitable partner, hence her being the lone wolf- his words.
They are immediately sent to London on a case. One of their agents went missing when he and his partner were sent to investigate the apparent suicide case of a Congressman. What was supposed to be a simple straightforward mission turns out to be as deep and dark as the ocean. There is a powerful traitor amongst them. The traitor was counting on Elara’s lone wolf trait to make her the scapegoat. Hence, her being sent to London. The only hitch in the plan was Ryder.
Elara escapes with Ryder’s help. So does the traitor who announces them on public television as traitors and fugitives on the run. This is where book one ends. There is a lot more to the case. To know what happens, stay tuned for the second book in this duet.
Opinion:
The plot is very intriguing, argue with the wall. I loved the core plot. The author has devoted her full mind towards drafting the plot. It’s not easy to write a book. It is NOT at all easy to write a book set in the Intelligence Department. Kudos to her for this feat. The characters are also amazing. Elara is a tough cookie, but she is extremely sweet on the inside. Ryder..whew, the man will make you sweat at times. The sudden twists and turns at every nook and corner will consume the reader, just like the blackhole. And then the sudden shock at the end- there is a part two. Cue the frustrated tears of the reader because we have to wait for the second book.
Also, the names of the first and second book are amazing!! They themselves will attract the reader towards it.
November 23, 2024
The novel introduces us to Elara Cassidy, a fiercely independent investigator who prefers to work alone, and Ryder Hale, her new partner at the DC FBI office. Their initial clash of personalities sets the stage for a compelling narrative filled with tension, wit, and undeniable chemistry.
From the outset, Elara’s character is strikingly well-drawn. She’s the embodiment of determination and expertise, yet her reluctance to collaborate adds an intriguing layer to her personality. Elara's snarky remarks and sharp intellect make her a formidable protagonist, one who readers will root for as she navigates the complexities of both her professional and personal life. Her internal struggle to let someone in, especially someone as infuriatingly charming as Ryder, adds depth to her character and makes for an engaging read.
Ryder Hale, on the other hand, is the quintessential tall, dark, and handsome figure who brings a playful cockiness to the story. His flirtatious banter with Elara not only lightens the mood but also serves to highlight the tension between them. As their partnership evolves, readers witness a delightful push-and-pull dynamic, filled with moments of vulnerability and humor. Ryder's determination to break through Elara's defenses adds an endearing quality to his character, making him more than just a love interest, but a partner in a deeper sense.
The plot is expertly woven with suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Elara and Ryder delve into their case. Elara Nicole Elara masterfully balances the elements of crime fiction with the development of the romantic subplot, ensuring neither overshadows the other. The pacing is brisk, and the narrative is peppered with twists that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
From the outset, Elara’s character is strikingly well-drawn. She’s the embodiment of determination and expertise, yet her reluctance to collaborate adds an intriguing layer to her personality. Elara's snarky remarks and sharp intellect make her a formidable protagonist, one who readers will root for as she navigates the complexities of both her professional and personal life. Her internal struggle to let someone in, especially someone as infuriatingly charming as Ryder, adds depth to her character and makes for an engaging read.
Ryder Hale, on the other hand, is the quintessential tall, dark, and handsome figure who brings a playful cockiness to the story. His flirtatious banter with Elara not only lightens the mood but also serves to highlight the tension between them. As their partnership evolves, readers witness a delightful push-and-pull dynamic, filled with moments of vulnerability and humor. Ryder's determination to break through Elara's defenses adds an endearing quality to his character, making him more than just a love interest, but a partner in a deeper sense.
The plot is expertly woven with suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Elara and Ryder delve into their case. Elara Nicole Elara masterfully balances the elements of crime fiction with the development of the romantic subplot, ensuring neither overshadows the other. The pacing is brisk, and the narrative is peppered with twists that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
March 15, 2025
I had a lot of expectations for “Bang & Burn” and I am a sucker novellas, but this one did not do it for me. The pacing was just too fast, and it needed more plot points to make it all adhere together.
I actually enjoyed the crime/FBI aspects and the smut separately. The smut in particularly was pretty good, I loved their time in the small village, it felt very peaceful and beautiful. But together the romance felt rushed, the timeline was odd, and the characters were strange. So, Elara is an FBI agent, and she works solo, she doesn’t need a partner because she’s insufferable, but then she does nothing to convince me that she’s those things. She actually works really well with Ryder and she seems like a good person, honest, professional. Ryder gushes all over her! So I don’t know why the author wanted to convince me that she had a temper. She didn’t. She was a normal person. I don’t know if they wanted to convince anyone that she was a badass agent, but she was only that because she was a good professional! Not because she was “terrible to work with”.
Ryder is just eye-candy. I have no idea what his role in this is except that he’s there to have s*x with Elara. He’s just generic good-looking guy that it’s there for plot convenience. Does he have a personality other than cute and “protective”? Idk... maybe?
This could have been a single novel with around 200-300 pages with a clean plot & timeline, but it’s Lindsey’s debut, so I’m sure the second book will be better. Practise makes perfect and you only get better at writing if you keep writing! <3
I'll still read the second one because while I found a lot of things that needed to be improved, I didn't dislike it.
I actually enjoyed the crime/FBI aspects and the smut separately. The smut in particularly was pretty good, I loved their time in the small village, it felt very peaceful and beautiful. But together the romance felt rushed, the timeline was odd, and the characters were strange. So, Elara is an FBI agent, and she works solo, she doesn’t need a partner because she’s insufferable, but then she does nothing to convince me that she’s those things. She actually works really well with Ryder and she seems like a good person, honest, professional. Ryder gushes all over her! So I don’t know why the author wanted to convince me that she had a temper. She didn’t. She was a normal person. I don’t know if they wanted to convince anyone that she was a badass agent, but she was only that because she was a good professional! Not because she was “terrible to work with”.
Ryder is just eye-candy. I have no idea what his role in this is except that he’s there to have s*x with Elara. He’s just generic good-looking guy that it’s there for plot convenience. Does he have a personality other than cute and “protective”? Idk... maybe?
This could have been a single novel with around 200-300 pages with a clean plot & timeline, but it’s Lindsey’s debut, so I’m sure the second book will be better. Practise makes perfect and you only get better at writing if you keep writing! <3
I'll still read the second one because while I found a lot of things that needed to be improved, I didn't dislike it.
November 18, 2024
I got the honor of reading Bang and Burn as an ARC. It was an absolute honor to be able to follow the journey that kept me on the edge of my seat and one that made me feel like I was transported into the pages. This story follows two FBI agents that are sent out on a mission to investigate the disappearance of a fellow agent. One of those agents being sent out is our FMC Elara. She is a feisty, dont mess with me, gorgeous, woman who once you get to know her and get past her rough exterior she is a normal girl with issues and loves to goof around. Then you have the other agent being sent out, our MMC Ryder. The way he is described and the way he showed up in my mind is a hot agent with muscles and tattoos because that is how he is described but he is also ex-military so you know he is hot. He takes Elara who says to him in the beginning once she gets assigned to work with him "We won't be working together for very long, so don't bother with the nicknames." When he asked to call her El. She is a firecracker and always preferred working alone until she met Ryder.
As you follow these two they will keep you on the edge of your seat with their banter and all of the spice and excitement along the investigation of looking for their fellow agent. This book has plenty of spice but also a great story of the these two. It's a wonderful build up to the start of their relationship and the suspense. I loved this book and can't wait for the next one!
🫦🫦🫦
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔫 Cinnamon Roll FMC
🔫 Forced Proximity
🔫 He falls first
🔫One Bed
🔫 Touch her and Die
🔫 FBI Partners
As you follow these two they will keep you on the edge of your seat with their banter and all of the spice and excitement along the investigation of looking for their fellow agent. This book has plenty of spice but also a great story of the these two. It's a wonderful build up to the start of their relationship and the suspense. I loved this book and can't wait for the next one!
🫦🫦🫦
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔫 Cinnamon Roll FMC
🔫 Forced Proximity
🔫 He falls first
🔫One Bed
🔫 Touch her and Die
🔫 FBI Partners
November 3, 2024
Don’t let that page count fool you!!! This book is packed full of delicious plot! Take a ride with two FBI agents as they are investigating a missing agent. I mean doesn’t murder and missing people make you start falling for your coworker? I don’t see why it wouldn’t! Haha. Elara and Ryder end up falling for each other while they sadly end up falling into a trap at the same time. I mean when you think you can trust everyone, you just don’t see the betrayal coming. They go from solving the case to being pinned as corrupt cops in a matter of a few weeks. No time at all. Yet, they obviously didn’t commit the crimes. They were just trying to do the job they were tasked with. So who is behind all of this?
You will have to read to find out! Author Lindsey Nicole really balanced the plot and spice mix. In such a book as this, one where the main characters have a demanding job, I felt like the spice/ plot mix was so balanced. These were such practical moments that it just felt right. It also made it feel that the whole book made sense for this simple move. Just cause we love spice, doesn’t mean you put it everywhere. Lindsey Nicole understood that assignment but also said “let me give you a fabulous storyline too.” Well how nice of you to add that to the mix too!! I will definitely be back for book two!!!
You will have to read to find out! Author Lindsey Nicole really balanced the plot and spice mix. In such a book as this, one where the main characters have a demanding job, I felt like the spice/ plot mix was so balanced. These were such practical moments that it just felt right. It also made it feel that the whole book made sense for this simple move. Just cause we love spice, doesn’t mean you put it everywhere. Lindsey Nicole understood that assignment but also said “let me give you a fabulous storyline too.” Well how nice of you to add that to the mix too!! I will definitely be back for book two!!!
November 13, 2024
This debut novel by Lindsey Nicole pulls you in from page one and doesn’t let go! It’s a fast, spicy, edge-of-your-seat ride that perfectly balances romance and suspense. Elara, a tough, lone-wolf FBI agent, finds herself paired with the mysterious Ryder—and sparks fly from their first case together. They’re thrust into a high-stakes investigation with a ticking clock and more layers than they bargained for. Watching these two opposites build trust and a *you’re-my-person* connection is incredibly satisfying, even if their bond comes together quickly (somewhere between "we just met" and "I can't live without you").
The mystery unfolds with twists and turns that keep you guessing, making it impossible to put down. It's action-packed with a cliffhanger that has you eagerly waiting for book two—seriously, is it out yet? Plus, bonus points for the "Dicktionary," which earns this book extra charm!
For those who love tropes, you’ll find them all here: forced proximity, one bed, and a "Touch Her and Die" intensity that’s deliciously executed. And for spice lovers? Ryder’s filthy mouth and take-charge attitude make the heat scenes unforgettable. If you’re looking for a quick, unputdownable read with the right balance of romance, suspense, and a generous helping of spice, grab this one and clear your schedule—Elara and Ryder’s wild ride is worth every page.
The mystery unfolds with twists and turns that keep you guessing, making it impossible to put down. It's action-packed with a cliffhanger that has you eagerly waiting for book two—seriously, is it out yet? Plus, bonus points for the "Dicktionary," which earns this book extra charm!
For those who love tropes, you’ll find them all here: forced proximity, one bed, and a "Touch Her and Die" intensity that’s deliciously executed. And for spice lovers? Ryder’s filthy mouth and take-charge attitude make the heat scenes unforgettable. If you’re looking for a quick, unputdownable read with the right balance of romance, suspense, and a generous helping of spice, grab this one and clear your schedule—Elara and Ryder’s wild ride is worth every page.
November 23, 2024
The blurb of this book got me hooked and I was interested to see that it was a very short book as well. Easy enough to get through in one sitting.
The first chapter although very short was interesting as well, as Elara didn't play nice with others as was apparent from the conversation with her boss. The short chapters in dual POV was a theme running throughout the entire book.
I'm sorry to say that this was all just too rushed to have any depth. I didn't feel like I knew the characters at all and while they went from step to step with each other, I was left with a "you just met each other 5 minutes ago' vibe.
There wasn't a lot of detail or description of people or places and the only scenes that were at the proper pace was the spice ones which were pretty good until the last one. Not for me.
The plot went from 6 hours later to a conversation, to a day later and then the courier came in a foreign country to deliver something that ordinary citizens would be waiting days for, to the next day and so on.
This would make a good episode for a TV show where we already know the 2 characters and their history and the set up and the whole thing is over in 40 minutes minus ads.
Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The first chapter although very short was interesting as well, as Elara didn't play nice with others as was apparent from the conversation with her boss. The short chapters in dual POV was a theme running throughout the entire book.
I'm sorry to say that this was all just too rushed to have any depth. I didn't feel like I knew the characters at all and while they went from step to step with each other, I was left with a "you just met each other 5 minutes ago' vibe.
There wasn't a lot of detail or description of people or places and the only scenes that were at the proper pace was the spice ones which were pretty good until the last one. Not for me.
The plot went from 6 hours later to a conversation, to a day later and then the courier came in a foreign country to deliver something that ordinary citizens would be waiting days for, to the next day and so on.
This would make a good episode for a TV show where we already know the 2 characters and their history and the set up and the whole thing is over in 40 minutes minus ads.
Thank you to Lindsey Nicole and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2024
Bang And Burn by Lindsey Nicole
ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5 Stars
Elara is used to being by herself and working alone so when she is forced to work with a new partner she is cold at first. Ryder is ex-military and just wants to help people and is excited to work with such an attractive partner. Ryder is flirty and can't keep his eyes off his new partner so when they get to the hotel where they are staying for their case and there is only one bed, that's no problem for him. Elara is all business and just wants to solve the case and continue to prove what a good agent she is to her boss and not get attached to her new partner, for when he inevitably leaves her. However the more they learn on this case the fewer people they can trust, until it is just the two of them. The romance in this book was fun, but for me, I struggled with the casework part of the book. I still enjoyed this read but it wasn't my favorite. There was good banter and some good spice between the MCs. Overall if you are looking for a quick romantic suspense read and some good spice then this would be a good book.
Tropes:
💥Dislike to Friends to Lovers
🔥Touch Her + Die
💥Forced Proximity
🔥One Bed
💥Looks Like She'll Kill You, is a Cinnamon Roll
🔥"F*ck It" Moment
💥FBI Partners
🔥He Falls First + Harder
ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5 Stars
Elara is used to being by herself and working alone so when she is forced to work with a new partner she is cold at first. Ryder is ex-military and just wants to help people and is excited to work with such an attractive partner. Ryder is flirty and can't keep his eyes off his new partner so when they get to the hotel where they are staying for their case and there is only one bed, that's no problem for him. Elara is all business and just wants to solve the case and continue to prove what a good agent she is to her boss and not get attached to her new partner, for when he inevitably leaves her. However the more they learn on this case the fewer people they can trust, until it is just the two of them. The romance in this book was fun, but for me, I struggled with the casework part of the book. I still enjoyed this read but it wasn't my favorite. There was good banter and some good spice between the MCs. Overall if you are looking for a quick romantic suspense read and some good spice then this would be a good book.
Tropes:
💥Dislike to Friends to Lovers
🔥Touch Her + Die
💥Forced Proximity
🔥One Bed
💥Looks Like She'll Kill You, is a Cinnamon Roll
🔥"F*ck It" Moment
💥FBI Partners
🔥He Falls First + Harder
November 14, 2024
Another shortie to break up my November reads!
This one kept me intrigued from page one and I definitely read it in one day. So now I'm left waiting on book two 🤣
Elara and Ryder are both FBI agents. Elara is the one who prefers to work alone and doesn't get along with partners in the past. She thinks Ryder is going to be no different but as they dive deeper into a time sensitive case (disappearance of another agent) the two start to form some tiny sliver of maybe a partnership?
These two, in my opinion, worked well together. They worked as a team to figure out the next steps in the case. And even with it being a short one, the mystery surrounding it was wrote well.
🤞🏼🤞🏼book two gives us more of the relationship aspect. I just wanna know about their pasts and personal lives outside of the bureau. Also...not cool with the cliffhanger ending! 🫣JKJK
Thank you Lindsey Nicole for trusting me with an early copy, and congrats on this debut!! I haven't done an FBI partners book yet and I was excited to see how this one plays out!🥳
This one kept me intrigued from page one and I definitely read it in one day. So now I'm left waiting on book two 🤣
Elara and Ryder are both FBI agents. Elara is the one who prefers to work alone and doesn't get along with partners in the past. She thinks Ryder is going to be no different but as they dive deeper into a time sensitive case (disappearance of another agent) the two start to form some tiny sliver of maybe a partnership?
These two, in my opinion, worked well together. They worked as a team to figure out the next steps in the case. And even with it being a short one, the mystery surrounding it was wrote well.
🤞🏼🤞🏼book two gives us more of the relationship aspect. I just wanna know about their pasts and personal lives outside of the bureau. Also...not cool with the cliffhanger ending! 🫣JKJK
Thank you Lindsey Nicole for trusting me with an early copy, and congrats on this debut!! I haven't done an FBI partners book yet and I was excited to see how this one plays out!🥳
November 28, 2024
ARC Review 4.5/5
Elara is a smart, resourceful and has a mask that is impenetrable to mostly everyone. She’s a successful FBI agent who has never wanted or needed a partner. Until she met Ryder a cocky flirtatious and devilishly man. He can make do in more ways than one 😉. What happens though when the case they are working on goes up and flames and sends them on a wild ride.
This fast paced book has all the action paced into a short book and enjoyable book. The banter, sarcasm and spice between Elara and Ryder is well done. The plot twist and character development has you engaged and on the edge of your seat.
I do think the book needed a bit more editing. I also would have liked a slightly slower pace. I enjoyed it but it felt a hair rushed at times. I did not realize it was a duet so I was annoyed when it ended the way it did but that is my own fault for not reading throughly. I’m not docking any points for it.
Tropes:
🔥Touch Her + Die
💥Forced Proximity
🔥One Bed
🔥”F*ck It” Moment
💥FBI Partners
🔥He Falls First + Harder
Elara is a smart, resourceful and has a mask that is impenetrable to mostly everyone. She’s a successful FBI agent who has never wanted or needed a partner. Until she met Ryder a cocky flirtatious and devilishly man. He can make do in more ways than one 😉. What happens though when the case they are working on goes up and flames and sends them on a wild ride.
This fast paced book has all the action paced into a short book and enjoyable book. The banter, sarcasm and spice between Elara and Ryder is well done. The plot twist and character development has you engaged and on the edge of your seat.
I do think the book needed a bit more editing. I also would have liked a slightly slower pace. I enjoyed it but it felt a hair rushed at times. I did not realize it was a duet so I was annoyed when it ended the way it did but that is my own fault for not reading throughly. I’m not docking any points for it.
Tropes:
🔥Touch Her + Die
💥Forced Proximity
🔥One Bed
🔥”F*ck It” Moment
💥FBI Partners
🔥He Falls First + Harder
Read
November 5, 2024🔥BANG AND BURN 🔥 ARC REVIEW
First, I am so excited to have gotten an ARC for this book! It was my first ARC and I’m very honored to have been chosen! That being said:
This book is a quick read, both because it launches right into the action and because it isn’t very many pages. I’m personally more of a slow burn girl, but people who want the romance fast and immediate , this one is definitely for you.
Being that it’s an ARC and a debut novel, while there are definitely some formatting errors, we’re kind of looking past that.
I was a little shocked by the cliff hanger since it was a short book, if you think of it more as a part 1 & part 2 book style, it makes more sense to leave it there.
If I’m honest, it was not my favorite book- that being said, I think the series and the author both have potential and I definitely don’t regret adding it to my reading challenge for the year!
🔥Bang and burn- out November 11th, 2024!!
First, I am so excited to have gotten an ARC for this book! It was my first ARC and I’m very honored to have been chosen! That being said:
This book is a quick read, both because it launches right into the action and because it isn’t very many pages. I’m personally more of a slow burn girl, but people who want the romance fast and immediate , this one is definitely for you.
Being that it’s an ARC and a debut novel, while there are definitely some formatting errors, we’re kind of looking past that.
I was a little shocked by the cliff hanger since it was a short book, if you think of it more as a part 1 & part 2 book style, it makes more sense to leave it there.
If I’m honest, it was not my favorite book- that being said, I think the series and the author both have potential and I definitely don’t regret adding it to my reading challenge for the year!
🔥Bang and burn- out November 11th, 2024!!
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