What do you think?
Rate this book
Dangerous Attractions #1
Corkscrewed
Cary Talbot has found the perfect mark. Marigold Shelley is filthy rich, and her newly found grandson, Isaac Shelley, is poised to inherit her huge estate, complete with a priceless wine collection. Cary concocts a plan to con both of them into selling the crown jewel of that collection to him at a bargain price. Since Isaac is young, single, and gay, part of Cary’s scheme to get close to the Shelleys includes seduction.
But Isaac isn’t the sheep he appears to be. He isn't even the grandson he appears to be. Isaac is, in fact, running quite the con of his own.
These two masters of the confidence game are pitted against each other, and both are after the ultimate prize—a chunk of the huge Shelley fortune. It’s only when a third cunning player comes in and is ready to outwit them both that they must band together and beat their opponent or see all they’ve worked for slip from their grasp one ruby-red drop at a time.
But Isaac isn’t the sheep he appears to be. He isn't even the grandson he appears to be. Isaac is, in fact, running quite the con of his own.
These two masters of the confidence game are pitted against each other, and both are after the ultimate prize—a chunk of the huge Shelley fortune. It’s only when a third cunning player comes in and is ready to outwit them both that they must band together and beat their opponent or see all they’ve worked for slip from their grasp one ruby-red drop at a time.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2014
10 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
M.J. O'Shea
86 books947 followersMJ O’Shea has never met a music festival, paintbrush, or
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Want to read
November 5, 2014Gorgeous cover. I approve.
January 3, 2015
Where do I start? I had some serious ups and downs with this book. I liked it and then I would scratch my head at where it was going but then I liked it again and then, well I was lost.
The double con deal sucked me in from the blurb, it’s what made me want to read it. Well that, and I am a fan of the author and have loved everything she puts out. But the story, it was different and not in a good way. Frist, regardless of hair color, I saw Cary as John Cusak from Grosse Point Blank. He had that same kind of roughness and vulnerability that Martin Q. Blank possessed and I adored that about him.
Isaac, or whomever he really is, I had a hard time connecting with. I think because he played so young in his con that I was lost on how he could pull anything off as an adult. That was until he flipped roles a bit, and then I warmed up to him.
Usually, in a story that has a mystery or such as this, I am skimming through it to get to the romance, but this? I was so into the cons that I wasn’t feeling the connection between the boys and their hours of kissing and that is so not me. Once I got to the “good” stuff in this, and not the sex, I mean the cons and things being found out, I wanted to keep reading. The cons, they really are what made these boys come to life, even though I still could not connect to them. I just couldn’t connect and that bugs me. Both Isaac and Cary seemed very shallow, superficial and one dimensional. I want depth in my criminals I guess, is that odd?
This was good, but it’s not my favorite story from the author, as much as I hate saying that. Though I did a search and it wasn’t as many times as I felt like it was used; folks giggled way too much in this story. Giggling is okay but grown men doing it, that often? That doesn’t do it for me. The boys had a connection but it felt rushed and well, argh – rushed – I can’t put my finger on just what felt off, when it felt off… again, the ups and downs I was talking about were constant with this story. I had a theory about the big secret early on and was right about it. I thought it would be a huge deal and it wasn’t and then the end? I am feeling let down by it. I don’t know if there is more planned with these boys but the end left me cold. I wanted more, maybe an epilogue to let me know how things are but what I got, personally, wasn’t enough.
Corkscrewed, had great potential, but it just didn’t work for me.
2.5 stars
December 24, 2014
3.5 stars
I love the premise. Two cons conning, in on the con and yet not. Two gorgeous, charming cons conning gorgeous rich people. Delightful.
However, something is afoot in the double con. It seems that there's more going on than meets the eye. And that bit of mystery keeps this caper afloat.
This just seemed a tad on the light and flippant side, though. The whole feel of it was more of a lark than dark scheming and angst. I wanted it a bit darker. For all their expertise in grifting, Isaac and Cary seem a bit careless and innocent. Especially Isaac. But that is the appeal, in the end. It's easier to connect with them if they don't seem so hardened. So, read this as a fun romp, it's entertaining, that's for sure.
March 23, 2015
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars for this contemporary M/M grifter romance.
Okay. So, this is a good fun read. It has a bit of everything: steam, intrigue, scheming, double-crosses and a couple "come to Jesus" moments.
Issac Shelly has been missing for ten years. A young man who works for a notorious grifter has been given notice that he's off the rolls, and should attempt to ingratiate himself into the good graces of Marigold Shelly in order to gain access to Issac's trust fund. It's a sweet set-up, especially as this man does resemble Issac a whole lot. As "Issac" he learns that Marigold is amazing, and loving. He adores her and living on her vineyard. He's conflicted about staying, however. He doesn't want to abuse Marigold and is feeling guilty about even posing as her long-lost grandson.
Cary Talbot is ready for a new job. He's been grifting from the rich a long time now, and his sights are set on Marigold Shelly's collection of priceless wines. He poses as an insurance analyst in order to convince Marigold her Nine Sisters collection is a fraud--in order to get her to "bribe" him to look the other way... He never expected to find Isaac so appealing, however. Or to find Marigold such a gracious woman.
It isn't long before Isaac and Cary act on the attraction between them. They get hot and heavy pretty dang fast. (Yum!) But Cary's assistant, Jules, finds that somebody is stealing Marigold's jewelry and setting Isaac up. All signs point to the infamous Black Mamba, not that anyone knows who the Black Mamba is...
When Cary's grift is compromised, he and Isaac have to act together to get out of this mess, but their hearts got engaged far faster then either of them had planned.
I'll admit: I (rightly) suspected the identity of the Black Mamba. There was a nice bit of mis-direction from a troublesome character, and Cary and Isaac had to work through their issues, but did so rather quickly. I liked how the story resolved with an HEA and a potential for more hijinks, though I doubt we'll see a crime syndicate sequel.
4.5 stars for this contemporary M/M grifter romance.
Okay. So, this is a good fun read. It has a bit of everything: steam, intrigue, scheming, double-crosses and a couple "come to Jesus" moments.
Issac Shelly has been missing for ten years. A young man who works for a notorious grifter has been given notice that he's off the rolls, and should attempt to ingratiate himself into the good graces of Marigold Shelly in order to gain access to Issac's trust fund. It's a sweet set-up, especially as this man does resemble Issac a whole lot. As "Issac" he learns that Marigold is amazing, and loving. He adores her and living on her vineyard. He's conflicted about staying, however. He doesn't want to abuse Marigold and is feeling guilty about even posing as her long-lost grandson.
Cary Talbot is ready for a new job. He's been grifting from the rich a long time now, and his sights are set on Marigold Shelly's collection of priceless wines. He poses as an insurance analyst in order to convince Marigold her Nine Sisters collection is a fraud--in order to get her to "bribe" him to look the other way... He never expected to find Isaac so appealing, however. Or to find Marigold such a gracious woman.
It isn't long before Isaac and Cary act on the attraction between them. They get hot and heavy pretty dang fast. (Yum!) But Cary's assistant, Jules, finds that somebody is stealing Marigold's jewelry and setting Isaac up. All signs point to the infamous Black Mamba, not that anyone knows who the Black Mamba is...
When Cary's grift is compromised, he and Isaac have to act together to get out of this mess, but their hearts got engaged far faster then either of them had planned.
I'll admit: I (rightly) suspected the identity of the Black Mamba. There was a nice bit of mis-direction from a troublesome character, and Cary and Isaac had to work through their issues, but did so rather quickly. I liked how the story resolved with an HEA and a potential for more hijinks, though I doubt we'll see a crime syndicate sequel.
December 5, 2014
Thank you M.J., this was just sooooo much fun! ♥
December 1, 2014
Isaac has no memory of his life prior to the car crash that took the lives of his parents. Raised by Ronan, a grifter, Isaac is about to assume the identity of one Isaac Shelley, to whom he bares an uncanny resemblance. Infiltrating the Shelley family proves to be much easier than Isaac anticipated, perhaps because Merigold Shelly, the patriarch of the family, is certain that he is her grandson. It’s the sexy, flirtatious Cary Talbot that is the problem.
Cary is a grifter as well, and the Shelley’s extensive and expensive wine collection is what he has his sights on. The gorgeous, young and inexperienced grandson Isaac is just icing on the cake. Cary uses their mutual attraction to seduce the heir apparent and everything is going according to plan, until a third person wiggles their way into the grift and Isaac realizes that Cary is actually a wolf in sheeps clothing.
They try hard to stay away from each other, to hate each other, but something seems to always push them back together. When the third party is revealed as well as a few more ‘family secrets’ Cary is free to go his own way. Age difference, unsavory careers and chosen identities aside, these two have fallen in love. But can they get past all the obstacles in their way and actually trust each other enough to follow through?
Did you ever see the movie ‘The Grifters’ with Jon Cusack and Angelica Huston? Imagine that movie set in wine country with the threat of Uma Thurman from kill bill and a gay love story developing behind the scenes. Now you have a pretty good visual for Corkscrewed. There was mystery, intrigue, suspense and some pretty smexy love scenes. O’Shea has an ability to write the most unlikely love stories and make them believable, relatable and still give the characters depth. Definitely an author I will buy just because her name is on the book, don’t care what it’s about because it is bound to be terrific!
A must read for anyone that likes romantic comedies with a bit of intrigue and a plethora of sexual situations. There is shy getting to know you sex, can’t seem to bury myself any further inside of you sex, I hate you but I want you sex and my personal favorite, angry sex. I promise you this, you won’t be bored!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Cary is a grifter as well, and the Shelley’s extensive and expensive wine collection is what he has his sights on. The gorgeous, young and inexperienced grandson Isaac is just icing on the cake. Cary uses their mutual attraction to seduce the heir apparent and everything is going according to plan, until a third person wiggles their way into the grift and Isaac realizes that Cary is actually a wolf in sheeps clothing.
They try hard to stay away from each other, to hate each other, but something seems to always push them back together. When the third party is revealed as well as a few more ‘family secrets’ Cary is free to go his own way. Age difference, unsavory careers and chosen identities aside, these two have fallen in love. But can they get past all the obstacles in their way and actually trust each other enough to follow through?
Did you ever see the movie ‘The Grifters’ with Jon Cusack and Angelica Huston? Imagine that movie set in wine country with the threat of Uma Thurman from kill bill and a gay love story developing behind the scenes. Now you have a pretty good visual for Corkscrewed. There was mystery, intrigue, suspense and some pretty smexy love scenes. O’Shea has an ability to write the most unlikely love stories and make them believable, relatable and still give the characters depth. Definitely an author I will buy just because her name is on the book, don’t care what it’s about because it is bound to be terrific!
A must read for anyone that likes romantic comedies with a bit of intrigue and a plethora of sexual situations. There is shy getting to know you sex, can’t seem to bury myself any further inside of you sex, I hate you but I want you sex and my personal favorite, angry sex. I promise you this, you won’t be bored!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
January 22, 2021
In need of a good editor but otherwise I enjoyed it. Sometimes the whole grifty aspect came across as a little simplistic and the ending wasn’t really a big surprise. In fact it was very much a HFN and I’m assuming Isaac and Cary are going to reappear in the future. The next book in the series had a preview chapter in here with the note that it had originally been published under a different title. Reading the reviews of that older title, apparently it ended with neither a HEA or a HFN. Maybe MJ O’Shea has changed it somewhat before giving it a new title. Fingers crossed.
March 25, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The beginning really grabs the reader’s attention as you learn that Roman must leave the young “boy” he saved years ago because Black Mamba has her sights on him. It is intriguing, poignant and at the same time hopeful – a new beginning. What will this young boy do – continue on the same path as his mentor or work independently?
Next, you learn about Cary and you wonder if “boy” is Cary or Jules? As a reader, I found myself thinking that Cary is a suave character working with the assistance of trusty sidekick who coincidentally was also saved. I was very intrigued as to whom was the boy in chapter one and process of elimination removed Jules since this trusty sidekick was a she. When oh when will we learn whom the boy is!?
Never fear, as Cary talks about his next job, you find similarities between what Roman suggested to the boy and the newfound heir to the winery he plans to hit. The boy is Isaac! But how does Isaac successfully convince the current matriarch that he is truly the long-lost step-grandson? Who is Black Mamba? Is Roman going to be okay? You will find that out as the plot thickens and the romance steams up the pages!
The romance between Cary and Isaac is like icing of the cake of this great mystery plot. A definite must-read.
The beginning really grabs the reader’s attention as you learn that Roman must leave the young “boy” he saved years ago because Black Mamba has her sights on him. It is intriguing, poignant and at the same time hopeful – a new beginning. What will this young boy do – continue on the same path as his mentor or work independently?
Next, you learn about Cary and you wonder if “boy” is Cary or Jules? As a reader, I found myself thinking that Cary is a suave character working with the assistance of trusty sidekick who coincidentally was also saved. I was very intrigued as to whom was the boy in chapter one and process of elimination removed Jules since this trusty sidekick was a she. When oh when will we learn whom the boy is!?
Never fear, as Cary talks about his next job, you find similarities between what Roman suggested to the boy and the newfound heir to the winery he plans to hit. The boy is Isaac! But how does Isaac successfully convince the current matriarch that he is truly the long-lost step-grandson? Who is Black Mamba? Is Roman going to be okay? You will find that out as the plot thickens and the romance steams up the pages!
The romance between Cary and Isaac is like icing of the cake of this great mystery plot. A definite must-read.
December 24, 2014
3.5 rounded down.
Review now available @ Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Review now available @ Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
April 3, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was a huge fan of the show Leverage, so I was instantly interested in this story of a con man (grifter) who is out to divest a wealthy older lady of her most prized wines. Cary Talbot, though admittedly a criminal, has an odd sense of honor in that he only cons those who have the means to lose a little. Don't get me wrong, he's no Robin Hood. It's just that he doesn't want anyone ruined or bankrupt due to his actions. His mark is Marigold Shelley, the owner of a vineyard in Sonoma County. Luckily for him, Marigold has just found her long-lost grandson, Isaac, and is potentially distracted with this incident. The twist here is that Isaac is also a grifter. He has no memories of his early childhood, and had been found on the street and eventually raised by Roman, a grifter. When Roman had to unexpectedly leave the country, he hands Isaac this con-on-a-platter of an old woman who is searching for her lost grandson, coincidentally a spot-on match for Isaac. Also super-lucky? The fact that Marigold isn't related by blood to Isaac, and there are no other living blood relatives so DNA testing is out.
I really enjoyed reading this story from both points of view, as we got to see what each MC was thinking. Initially both working their own cons, they become attracted to each other and begin a relationship. Then comes the ultimate mystery of who is framing Isaac for the missing items in the household. Perhaps not everyone is as happy as Marigold that the prodigal (grand)son has returned. I will say that I guessed pretty early on what the plot twist was going to be, but despite that knowledge still enjoyed the way that everything developed.
Definitely recommended for those who love enemies-to-lovers, a good mystery, and several good cons.
I was a huge fan of the show Leverage, so I was instantly interested in this story of a con man (grifter) who is out to divest a wealthy older lady of her most prized wines. Cary Talbot, though admittedly a criminal, has an odd sense of honor in that he only cons those who have the means to lose a little. Don't get me wrong, he's no Robin Hood. It's just that he doesn't want anyone ruined or bankrupt due to his actions. His mark is Marigold Shelley, the owner of a vineyard in Sonoma County. Luckily for him, Marigold has just found her long-lost grandson, Isaac, and is potentially distracted with this incident. The twist here is that Isaac is also a grifter. He has no memories of his early childhood, and had been found on the street and eventually raised by Roman, a grifter. When Roman had to unexpectedly leave the country, he hands Isaac this con-on-a-platter of an old woman who is searching for her lost grandson, coincidentally a spot-on match for Isaac. Also super-lucky? The fact that Marigold isn't related by blood to Isaac, and there are no other living blood relatives so DNA testing is out.
I really enjoyed reading this story from both points of view, as we got to see what each MC was thinking. Initially both working their own cons, they become attracted to each other and begin a relationship. Then comes the ultimate mystery of who is framing Isaac for the missing items in the household. Perhaps not everyone is as happy as Marigold that the prodigal (grand)son has returned. I will say that I guessed pretty early on what the plot twist was going to be, but despite that knowledge still enjoyed the way that everything developed.
Definitely recommended for those who love enemies-to-lovers, a good mystery, and several good cons.
March 31, 2015
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review as part of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group Don't Buy My Love program
4.5 Stars
I love a good caper and I don't think I've read one until now! I'm a fan of Leverage, all of the Ocean 11 movies and the Italian Job and Corkscrewed is right up there with them.
Two con-men running a con at the same time at the same place with a third unknown in the mix what could be more exciting. Issac is running the Anastasia con, long lost heir with amnesia and Cary is running an insurance scam both on the unsuspecting little old lady that owns a winery, Marigold.
Issac and Cary's attraction for each other is pretty insta with a nice bit of angst; which is completely justified give their professions. But when they think the other might try expose their con the tempers flare until they both realize they are being set up. Joining forces to protect Marigold from a third unknown party and still get what they came for they learn you can't run a con on your own feelings. (yeah that line was a little cheesy but true!)
This was such a fun read for me, I thought Marigold was a great little match maker and Jules just might be my hero; tech savvy with great wit.
The ending was more HFN than HEA which was okay, I think I just wasn't ready for the story to end and I'm not sure how there could be a follow up to either but I would love to see Issac, Cary, and the rest of the crew pull a job together in the future.
Oh I almost forgot to mention the smexy...yep it'll make you reach for your own glass of wine ;-)
4.5 Stars
I love a good caper and I don't think I've read one until now! I'm a fan of Leverage, all of the Ocean 11 movies and the Italian Job and Corkscrewed is right up there with them.
Two con-men running a con at the same time at the same place with a third unknown in the mix what could be more exciting. Issac is running the Anastasia con, long lost heir with amnesia and Cary is running an insurance scam both on the unsuspecting little old lady that owns a winery, Marigold.
Issac and Cary's attraction for each other is pretty insta with a nice bit of angst; which is completely justified give their professions. But when they think the other might try expose their con the tempers flare until they both realize they are being set up. Joining forces to protect Marigold from a third unknown party and still get what they came for they learn you can't run a con on your own feelings. (yeah that line was a little cheesy but true!)
This was such a fun read for me, I thought Marigold was a great little match maker and Jules just might be my hero; tech savvy with great wit.
The ending was more HFN than HEA which was okay, I think I just wasn't ready for the story to end and I'm not sure how there could be a follow up to either but I would love to see Issac, Cary, and the rest of the crew pull a job together in the future.
Oh I almost forgot to mention the smexy...yep it'll make you reach for your own glass of wine ;-)
March 25, 2015
This book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Cary Talbot is a con artist who found the perfect mark in Marigold Shelley who is filthy rich and just getting to know her long lost grandson again and therefore is an easy mark for Cary or is she?
Isaac is the long lost and newly found grandson of Marigold Shelley or is he?
I liked it that the story is told from both Isaac and Cary's point of view that gives more development to the story and because of this we get to know the main characters better altough i would have liked some more info on Cary for example why did he went in to this business?
The myserie/crime theme was very well done maybe some of the twists were a bit predictable but others weren't this book got me hooked from the beginning until the end. I read this book in one setting because i really wanted to know the answers to some of the questions and for me that is a sign that i really like the book.
There is only one complaint from me and that is that i would have loved an epilogue to see were the boys are some years from now other than that this book is a solid 4 stars for me.
Overall a very good read and i defenitely recommend this one.
Cary Talbot is a con artist who found the perfect mark in Marigold Shelley who is filthy rich and just getting to know her long lost grandson again and therefore is an easy mark for Cary or is she?
Isaac is the long lost and newly found grandson of Marigold Shelley or is he?
I liked it that the story is told from both Isaac and Cary's point of view that gives more development to the story and because of this we get to know the main characters better altough i would have liked some more info on Cary for example why did he went in to this business?
The myserie/crime theme was very well done maybe some of the twists were a bit predictable but others weren't this book got me hooked from the beginning until the end. I read this book in one setting because i really wanted to know the answers to some of the questions and for me that is a sign that i really like the book.
There is only one complaint from me and that is that i would have loved an epilogue to see were the boys are some years from now other than that this book is a solid 4 stars for me.
Overall a very good read and i defenitely recommend this one.
May 14, 2016
How does a con-man con a con-man? I have to say that there is a twist to this story that you think have figured out about half way through...but you really don't, there are so many twists and turns you have to carefully navigate to get to the truth of it all. Loved the chemistry of Cary and Isaac.
This is a book I can defiantly see being made into a movie, lots of great characters and a terrific story plot!
This is a book I can defiantly see being made into a movie, lots of great characters and a terrific story plot!
February 8, 2015
A lovely little light-hearted romp filled with scam artists and their heists.
January 25, 2022
Cary Talbot has found the perfect mark. Marigold Shelley, a wine collector and vintner, just found her lost grandson, Isaac, and is distracted, making her perfect. Cary plans to con her into selling some of the prize wines in her collection. He did not count on Isaac and the feelings he brings out. When he discovers that Isaac is working his own con, Cary is not sure what to do. Then another party enters the scene with attempts to frame them both and everything becomes even more complicated.
What an incredible story this turned out to be. A twist here and a turn there and what you thought was true turns out to be false as well as the reverse. The plot really kept you guessing until the end. It was exciting, tense and thoroughly satisfying. This is one story that is good to the last drop.
What an incredible story this turned out to be. A twist here and a turn there and what you thought was true turns out to be false as well as the reverse. The plot really kept you guessing until the end. It was exciting, tense and thoroughly satisfying. This is one story that is good to the last drop.
January 30, 2022
An m/m romance/mystery/caper story with echoes of the film Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Both Cary and Isaac are running cons on Marigold Shelley wealthy vineyard owner. They meet, an instant attraction develops and quickly escalates until they discover each other's secret. That might have been enough to end their schemes and their romance, but there are others skulking about with evil intentions and more mysteries to unravel. This is fun, funny and has the perfect amount of heat and puzzles.
March 29, 2015
Corkscrewed
This book was provided to me by the author through the DBML Program in exchange for an honest review.
A very different kind of romance, both MCs were con men, making it difficult to tell their sincerity from the con since both were outstanding in their roles.
Isaac Shelley has been found after being missing since he was a teen when he disappeared from the scene of the auto accident which killed his parents. Marigold Shelley, wealthy vineyard owner, the only survivor in the Shelley family, discovers Isaac when she enters a restaurant where he’s recently been hired as a waiter. The con is on. Isaac may indeed be Isaac Shelley, but even he’s not sure because he truly has lost his memory. All he knows is that he was pulled off the streets by his mentor, Roman, who has fled the country. Before he left, he gave Isaac enough information to go pull off the missing grandson con. If Isaac convinces Marigold that he’s the long lost grandson, he’ll get his hands on the trust fund and be gone.
At least those were his plans until Cary Talbot showed up. Cary, con man extraordinaire, is out to grab The Nine Sisters, the jewel in the crown of priceless wine collections housed in Marigold’s wine vault. Despite the fact that both men are working a con, they are extremely attracted to one another, and when the kisses go beyond smoking hot, they act on that attraction. Neither realizes the other is working a con until a third party pawns one of Marigold’s necklaces, and Cary finds out about it through Jules, his partner in crime who happens to be a computer guru able to trace anything. When she finds out the missing necklace was sold by a young man with dark hair and blue eyes, they both leap to the conclusion that Isaac is stealing from his grandmother. But when one of the wine bottles in Marigold’s vault is stolen, Cary takes action in order to avoid having any suspicion coming his way.
When Cary confronts Isaac, and the truth comes out, they realize they have a huge problem. Someone else is on the scene and when the clues start to stack up, they appear to be pointing to their chief nemesis— the infamous Black Mamba.
Forced to work together to defeat her, their love continues to grow, yet neither man can picture a possible happy ending. They know once The Nine Sisters has been conned away by Cary, they’ll never see each other again. I enjoyed the plot twists and turns during the conclusion of the story which, of course, I won’t detail in a review. Even though I had solved a part of the mystery, the full scope was still a surprise and paved the way for the men to have their HEA.
Unfortunately, I didn’t really get into their romance. Something just didn’t ignite for me, and I found myself putting the book down and walking away a number of times, instead of rushing to get back to it like I normally would. In hindsight, it was not so much the chemistry between the two MCs, as the chemistry between each MC and me. I just couldn’t warm to either of them, either individually or together. Maybe it was knowing they were con men, but I just didn’t connect with them, even when they connected with each other. It felt false all the way up to about the 70% point in the story. After that, I was more interested but never really cared enough about them staying together. It’s very hard to explain, but somehow I just couldn’t visualize them as a couple. And that’s too bad because I enjoy this author’s writing and I usually really engage with her MCs.
I would still recommend this story, however, because there are many readers who wouldn’t feel that hang-up and would enjoy the complexity and intrigue of the con the guys were trying to pull while they were busy romancing each other.
This book was provided to me by the author through the DBML Program in exchange for an honest review.
A very different kind of romance, both MCs were con men, making it difficult to tell their sincerity from the con since both were outstanding in their roles.
Isaac Shelley has been found after being missing since he was a teen when he disappeared from the scene of the auto accident which killed his parents. Marigold Shelley, wealthy vineyard owner, the only survivor in the Shelley family, discovers Isaac when she enters a restaurant where he’s recently been hired as a waiter. The con is on. Isaac may indeed be Isaac Shelley, but even he’s not sure because he truly has lost his memory. All he knows is that he was pulled off the streets by his mentor, Roman, who has fled the country. Before he left, he gave Isaac enough information to go pull off the missing grandson con. If Isaac convinces Marigold that he’s the long lost grandson, he’ll get his hands on the trust fund and be gone.
At least those were his plans until Cary Talbot showed up. Cary, con man extraordinaire, is out to grab The Nine Sisters, the jewel in the crown of priceless wine collections housed in Marigold’s wine vault. Despite the fact that both men are working a con, they are extremely attracted to one another, and when the kisses go beyond smoking hot, they act on that attraction. Neither realizes the other is working a con until a third party pawns one of Marigold’s necklaces, and Cary finds out about it through Jules, his partner in crime who happens to be a computer guru able to trace anything. When she finds out the missing necklace was sold by a young man with dark hair and blue eyes, they both leap to the conclusion that Isaac is stealing from his grandmother. But when one of the wine bottles in Marigold’s vault is stolen, Cary takes action in order to avoid having any suspicion coming his way.
When Cary confronts Isaac, and the truth comes out, they realize they have a huge problem. Someone else is on the scene and when the clues start to stack up, they appear to be pointing to their chief nemesis— the infamous Black Mamba.
Forced to work together to defeat her, their love continues to grow, yet neither man can picture a possible happy ending. They know once The Nine Sisters has been conned away by Cary, they’ll never see each other again. I enjoyed the plot twists and turns during the conclusion of the story which, of course, I won’t detail in a review. Even though I had solved a part of the mystery, the full scope was still a surprise and paved the way for the men to have their HEA.
Unfortunately, I didn’t really get into their romance. Something just didn’t ignite for me, and I found myself putting the book down and walking away a number of times, instead of rushing to get back to it like I normally would. In hindsight, it was not so much the chemistry between the two MCs, as the chemistry between each MC and me. I just couldn’t warm to either of them, either individually or together. Maybe it was knowing they were con men, but I just didn’t connect with them, even when they connected with each other. It felt false all the way up to about the 70% point in the story. After that, I was more interested but never really cared enough about them staying together. It’s very hard to explain, but somehow I just couldn’t visualize them as a couple. And that’s too bad because I enjoy this author’s writing and I usually really engage with her MCs.
I would still recommend this story, however, because there are many readers who wouldn’t feel that hang-up and would enjoy the complexity and intrigue of the con the guys were trying to pull while they were busy romancing each other.
February 14, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
This was a very sexy little caper about two grifters out for different scores falling for each other. I was pretty much hooked from the first few pages. This was totally unlike anything I’ve read lately. I really enjoyed it.
After growing up on the streets Isaac assumes his new identity in the hopes of playing the role of a rich elderly woman named Marigold’s long lost grandson. It’s his chance to hit the biggest jackpot of his con career. He just didn’t expect to like the woman so much. He’s moved into the giant house and is laying the groundwork. Gaining her trust. Things are going pretty good. Then suddenly a gorgeous older insurance agent shows up on his grandma’s doorstep and things get complicated.
It’s not Cary’s first time playing the “insurance agent”. He’s got his eye on a very rare set of wine in Marigold’s collection worth a fortune. Cary is very good at his chosen profession. He has an amazing assistant and partner to help him out. When Marigold invites him to stay in her guest house at her winery while conducting his audit Cary thinks this will be an easy job. The grandson, Isaac is already checking him out. Cary isn’t above using whatever advantage he can to get the job done. Including gaining the affections of Isaac. It doesn’t hurt Isaac is hot as hell. Neither man really knows who the other is at first but they fall for each other none the less. Both struggling with guilt and keeping their focus on the reason they’re both at the estate. To grift money from Marigold. Not to fall in love.
So I pretty much loved this entire story. Yes, I guessed who was who fairly early but I didn’t REALLY know until the end. It didn’t take away anything from the story for me. I loved the characters in this book. Isaac was good at conning but this job was his first one done alone. Without his need to make his mentor happy, he just didn’t feel right about it. I enjoyed his struggle with the guilt. He felt at home, safe and loved for the first time since he could remember. I was a total sucker for Isaac’s sweet and bad side. Because after he meets Cary. The boy got a little naughty. In the best way. And of course lets not forget he’s a con artist.
Cary was just the type of guy I like to read about. Clever and charming. Not exactly squeaky clean but totally likable. I could see him endearing himself to anybody he sets his focus on. I also like how he was supposed to be this true professional but when it came to wanting Isaac he just couldn’t control himself. They literally couldn’t keep their hands off each other. It was a delicious mix of adorable and lusty goodness.
The plot was pretty good I think. The ruthless con artist Black Mamba coming after them was pretty exciting and the effect it had on the guys was great. The anticipation of will they, won’t they pull of the heist was nice. I liked the MCs together and I liked them fighting. Both of them had conflicting sides that came out when they were together. Instant friction! The secondary characters were a lot of fun. It’s always nice when you enjoy reading the pages when the MCs aren’t together almost as much as when they are.
Overall this was a really enjoyable read. Unique. Likable characters. Great chemistry between the MCs. Fun! Another really good book by this author. Keep them coming please!
This was a very sexy little caper about two grifters out for different scores falling for each other. I was pretty much hooked from the first few pages. This was totally unlike anything I’ve read lately. I really enjoyed it.
After growing up on the streets Isaac assumes his new identity in the hopes of playing the role of a rich elderly woman named Marigold’s long lost grandson. It’s his chance to hit the biggest jackpot of his con career. He just didn’t expect to like the woman so much. He’s moved into the giant house and is laying the groundwork. Gaining her trust. Things are going pretty good. Then suddenly a gorgeous older insurance agent shows up on his grandma’s doorstep and things get complicated.
It’s not Cary’s first time playing the “insurance agent”. He’s got his eye on a very rare set of wine in Marigold’s collection worth a fortune. Cary is very good at his chosen profession. He has an amazing assistant and partner to help him out. When Marigold invites him to stay in her guest house at her winery while conducting his audit Cary thinks this will be an easy job. The grandson, Isaac is already checking him out. Cary isn’t above using whatever advantage he can to get the job done. Including gaining the affections of Isaac. It doesn’t hurt Isaac is hot as hell. Neither man really knows who the other is at first but they fall for each other none the less. Both struggling with guilt and keeping their focus on the reason they’re both at the estate. To grift money from Marigold. Not to fall in love.
So I pretty much loved this entire story. Yes, I guessed who was who fairly early but I didn’t REALLY know until the end. It didn’t take away anything from the story for me. I loved the characters in this book. Isaac was good at conning but this job was his first one done alone. Without his need to make his mentor happy, he just didn’t feel right about it. I enjoyed his struggle with the guilt. He felt at home, safe and loved for the first time since he could remember. I was a total sucker for Isaac’s sweet and bad side. Because after he meets Cary. The boy got a little naughty. In the best way. And of course lets not forget he’s a con artist.
Cary was just the type of guy I like to read about. Clever and charming. Not exactly squeaky clean but totally likable. I could see him endearing himself to anybody he sets his focus on. I also like how he was supposed to be this true professional but when it came to wanting Isaac he just couldn’t control himself. They literally couldn’t keep their hands off each other. It was a delicious mix of adorable and lusty goodness.
The plot was pretty good I think. The ruthless con artist Black Mamba coming after them was pretty exciting and the effect it had on the guys was great. The anticipation of will they, won’t they pull of the heist was nice. I liked the MCs together and I liked them fighting. Both of them had conflicting sides that came out when they were together. Instant friction! The secondary characters were a lot of fun. It’s always nice when you enjoy reading the pages when the MCs aren’t together almost as much as when they are.
Overall this was a really enjoyable read. Unique. Likable characters. Great chemistry between the MCs. Fun! Another really good book by this author. Keep them coming please!
March 25, 2015
I want to say that I liked this book. It's certainly filled with sweet, nice, likable characters. I want to say that it held me on the edge of my seat. It's certainly filled with enough intrigue and double crosses. I want to.... oh my, how I want to...
Regrettably, I can't honestly say any of those things. The characters were too unbelievably nice.They just never stepped off the page to come to life for me. I caught myself skimming my way through scenes hoping something would spark some life into it. None of the nitty-gritty, tiny yet so important details ever showed themselves. I feel as though we were kept at a polite, superficial distance.
Ultimately, I guess maybe that I'm lucky that I didn't come to care for these characters. Otherwise I would have been very let down by all the things left hanging with no explanation.
I was provided this book through the m/m romance groups Don't By Me Love program in exchange for an fair and honest review.
Regrettably, I can't honestly say any of those things. The characters were too unbelievably nice.They just never stepped off the page to come to life for me. I caught myself skimming my way through scenes hoping something would spark some life into it. None of the nitty-gritty, tiny yet so important details ever showed themselves. I feel as though we were kept at a polite, superficial distance.
Ultimately, I guess maybe that I'm lucky that I didn't come to care for these characters. Otherwise I would have been very let down by all the things left hanging with no explanation.
I was provided this book through the m/m romance groups Don't By Me Love program in exchange for an fair and honest review.
April 11, 2015
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
I honestly wish I like this book more. I was interested in reading this book by M.J. O'Shea because I thought I never read a standalone by this author. I was wrong. I have read at least four books (Boo ME!). The first few pages were very interesting then it sort of just lost my attention out of nowhere. Then things really pop up for me when they found out about each other halfway through the book. I've been putting this book off for a couple of weeks. I was in and out of like with this book. When it was spicy, I love it. I hate when I'm so happy for a chance to read a book and I just could not fully connect to it.
I honestly wish I like this book more. I was interested in reading this book by M.J. O'Shea because I thought I never read a standalone by this author. I was wrong. I have read at least four books (Boo ME!). The first few pages were very interesting then it sort of just lost my attention out of nowhere. Then things really pop up for me when they found out about each other halfway through the book. I've been putting this book off for a couple of weeks. I was in and out of like with this book. When it was spicy, I love it. I hate when I'm so happy for a chance to read a book and I just could not fully connect to it.
December 8, 2014
*** 3.5 Stars ***
Sweet, soapy goodness!
Sweet, soapy goodness!
January 14, 2015
This was a fun double con/romance. My only criticism was that the ending was tied up a little too easily.
December 6, 2014
A cozy little caper that had me hooked from beginning to end.
April 22, 2022
This book is really lucky I just finished an extremely badly written book because it made this one appear palatable.
But just barely.
I got this for free through a freebies email newsletter.
I did like the premise in this one. Two cons conning the same person and then falling in love only to find out they're both conmen? Lovers to enemies to lovers?! Um yes please!
Unfortunately, the story writing just wasn't the greatest. (Sorry, y'all. Because I read these back to back, I'm going to compare it a lot to C*ck blocked. Worry not, this will work to this book's benefit, I think)
The writing, while redundant, didn't feel forced like O'Shea was trying to up her word count. The dialogue was decent and the characters were developed enough to where it seems like they all had individual voices.
The point of view was third person limited, focusing on each love interest by chapter. This still left an amount of info-dumping but not nearly on the level of the other book.
The "twist" was very predictable and I felt that the author gave it away with her unsubtle hint drops very early on in the story. Speaking of general plot, the premise for Isaac required me to suspend my disbelief a lot. It's one of those back stories that if you think about for more than a minute, it falls apart.
As for the smut, I appreciated that the boys were verse. It hasn't cropped up in a lot of the stories I've read so that was nice.
Anyway, it's a mediocre story but it isn't terrible and I liked the premise. Since the sequel was also free, I'll check it out but I don't think I like it enough that I would pay for a third installment.
But just barely.
I got this for free through a freebies email newsletter.
I did like the premise in this one. Two cons conning the same person and then falling in love only to find out they're both conmen? Lovers to enemies to lovers?! Um yes please!
Unfortunately, the story writing just wasn't the greatest. (Sorry, y'all. Because I read these back to back, I'm going to compare it a lot to C*ck blocked. Worry not, this will work to this book's benefit, I think)
The writing, while redundant, didn't feel forced like O'Shea was trying to up her word count. The dialogue was decent and the characters were developed enough to where it seems like they all had individual voices.
The point of view was third person limited, focusing on each love interest by chapter. This still left an amount of info-dumping but not nearly on the level of the other book.
The "twist" was very predictable and I felt that the author gave it away with her unsubtle hint drops very early on in the story. Speaking of general plot, the premise for Isaac required me to suspend my disbelief a lot. It's one of those back stories that if you think about for more than a minute, it falls apart.
As for the smut, I appreciated that the boys were verse. It hasn't cropped up in a lot of the stories I've read so that was nice.
Anyway, it's a mediocre story but it isn't terrible and I liked the premise. Since the sequel was also free, I'll check it out but I don't think I like it enough that I would pay for a third installment.
January 30, 2022
Learned a lot about Cons. Absoltely, LOVED this story. Cary is running a con against Marigold Shelley, a wondeful woman in her 80s, to steal the Nine Sisters, a collection of rare bottles of wine. He worked with hacker, extraordinaire, Jules. Isaac, was running a con about being Marigold's long lost grandson, who went missing during the confusion after the car accident that killed his parents. Isaac, could be a twin of the child who went missing as a preteen. Isaac, needed his con to work because Ramon, his mentor, allegedly fled the country because the Black Mamba put the feds on his tail. Cary, was aware and in awe of the Black Mamba also. These two men have an immediate attraction to each other. Cary also loves the area. Both men really like Marigold. Does Marigold catch onto any of the cons? Does Cary or Isaac succeed? Does the Black Mamba try her hand? Do Isaac or Cary recognize a fellow con artist? This story reminds me of Ladykillers, both versions. This is a delightful, romantic mystery that keeps you engaged until the very last story. You almost don't want it to end. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2022
(Re-released version 2022)
The twists and turns in Clay and Isaac's romance delighted me, and despite some of them being obvious, there were others I never saw coming! I probably shouldn't have enjoyed the concept of these men trying to fool a sweet older lady, but honestly watching Isaac and Clay try to pull them off was really entertaining. I thought their sweet, swoony attraction was very believable, especially since it threw a giant wrench into the cons. Knowing that the two of them knew what a bad idea it was to sleep together just made their eventual fall even more victorious, and wow did I enjoy the results. Seeing the cracks form in Clay's mission until he made the choice to protect Isaac over making a quick buck made me want to cheer, and though I knew in my heart how Isaac's story would turn it, it was still awesome to experience the reality. Marigold and Jules were amazing supporting characters, and overall this story was really fun and heartwarming.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
The twists and turns in Clay and Isaac's romance delighted me, and despite some of them being obvious, there were others I never saw coming! I probably shouldn't have enjoyed the concept of these men trying to fool a sweet older lady, but honestly watching Isaac and Clay try to pull them off was really entertaining. I thought their sweet, swoony attraction was very believable, especially since it threw a giant wrench into the cons. Knowing that the two of them knew what a bad idea it was to sleep together just made their eventual fall even more victorious, and wow did I enjoy the results. Seeing the cracks form in Clay's mission until he made the choice to protect Isaac over making a quick buck made me want to cheer, and though I knew in my heart how Isaac's story would turn it, it was still awesome to experience the reality. Marigold and Jules were amazing supporting characters, and overall this story was really fun and heartwarming.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 15, 2022
I love the concept of this book. Who doesn't love a good caper—or, even better, multiple intersecting capers? Unfortunately, for me, the book didn't live up to its promise. It was enjoyable enough for a 3.5-star review, but I was never drawn in to the point where I truly cared about the characters. I have some quibbles about how the main mysteries were resolved, too (some were a bit too obvious), but in the end, I read for character and will forgive almost anything if I care enough about the protagonists. I wish this book had delved a bit deeper to make that happen. (I also try not to gripe about typos in ARCs, but I see this book has already been released, so... I think it could have used a bit more cleaning up.)
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for a complimentary copy of this book.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for a complimentary copy of this book.
February 21, 2022
Paragons of virtue those two are definitely not, but they are still adorable.
I liked this one a lot. More than I expected honestly. It kind of has that insta-love feel to it, since they are attracted to one another straight away, but that is not the only reason I liked it. It was funny, quick and adorable. There were some eye-roll moments too, but not too bad. I liked both main characters with their life in the grey area, between good and bad, right and wrong. Not quite true antiheroes, but not quite the good guys either. They were adorable. Okay, I said that already.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
I liked this one a lot. More than I expected honestly. It kind of has that insta-love feel to it, since they are attracted to one another straight away, but that is not the only reason I liked it. It was funny, quick and adorable. There were some eye-roll moments too, but not too bad. I liked both main characters with their life in the grey area, between good and bad, right and wrong. Not quite true antiheroes, but not quite the good guys either. They were adorable. Okay, I said that already.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
January 26, 2022
This book was a whole lot of fun! It's sexy and steamy, too. Perfect combination. Cary is planning to swindle a wealthy elderly lady. Then he meets her grandson who isn't quite who he says. Two conmen, one victim. The con man faces another con man, and sparks (of the romantic nature) fly. Who will come out on top (no pun intended)? Maybe neither when a third party enters the picture, set on ruining them both. This was a fun, flirty read with mystery, secrets, unexpected attraction, schemes, and plenty of twists and turns. I look forward to more in the series.
I received a free review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received a free review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
January 26, 2022
Isaac and Cary are both trying to fleece Marigold Shelly, a filthy rich vineyard owner. What they didn’t count on was each other or the explosive chemistry. This was a really fun read, it hooked me and didn’t let go. There was intrigue, con artists, rom-com and a really good mystery to solve. Loved it!! Overall, a really great read! The story was really well written, the pacing flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received. My review is solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews