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Vargas Cartel #1
The Bargain
Three weeks, twenty-one days, or five hundred and four hours…
That’s all it took to derail my life and twist it into something unrecognizable. One moment I had Evan, the man I thought I’d marry. The next moment shattered the illusion.
Now I have no one.
Except him.
Ryker Vargas, and I don’t really have him. He’d never belong to any one but himself. He sucked me into a web of lies and now it’s too late. I took the bait. I’m a prisoner of the Vargas Cartel.
I never thought I’d be another statistic, another girl abducted in a foreign country, my entire future washed away by an impulsive, split second in time.
But it’s true.
My name is Hattie Covington and I’m a statistic, but statistics never tell the whole story.
That’s all it took to derail my life and twist it into something unrecognizable. One moment I had Evan, the man I thought I’d marry. The next moment shattered the illusion.
Now I have no one.
Except him.
Ryker Vargas, and I don’t really have him. He’d never belong to any one but himself. He sucked me into a web of lies and now it’s too late. I took the bait. I’m a prisoner of the Vargas Cartel.
I never thought I’d be another statistic, another girl abducted in a foreign country, my entire future washed away by an impulsive, split second in time.
But it’s true.
My name is Hattie Covington and I’m a statistic, but statistics never tell the whole story.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
102 people are currently reading
2053 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Cardiff
26 books372 followersAfter spending years practicing law and a million other things, Lisa decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer and she must confess that inventing characters is so much more fun than writing contracts and legal briefs. A native of Colorado, she lives with her husband and three children in Denver. When she isn’t managing the chaos of raising three children and owning her own business, she can be found reading or writing a book.
You can read more about Lisa and her upcoming work at www.lisacardiff.com.
You can read more about Lisa and her upcoming work at www.lisacardiff.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 10, 2016
This was a 3 1/2 star read for me. As far as kidnapping/captivity themes go, this was pretty "middle of the road". At first, it seemed like this was going to be the type of taboo, dark story that would push my boundaries and leave me wondering what would happen next. Unfortunately, while it was an okay read, it fell short for me in many ways.
Hattie was the quintessential "good girl". She was born into a political, wealthy family and lived a regimented life of "privilege". Every aspect of her life fit the mold her social-climbing mother set for her life. She hadt He right clothes, the right internship and the right boyfriend for political success.
When her "perfect" boyfriend, Evan, is caught in a compromising position, Hattie throws caution to the wind and goes on a trip to Mexico with her best friend. Living recklessly for the first time, Hattie soon finds herself regretting her impulsive decision. She is drugged and kidnapped by Ryker, the sexy man she met at the bar on a night out.
It seems that Hattie's political connections are the motivation for her abduction. Ryker is the son of the kingpin of the notorious Vargas drug cartel. As the Attorney General of the United States, Hattie's father has the power to secure the release of Ryker's brother in exchange for Hattie.
Although the book started with a ominously dark feeling, it failed to deliver on that account. There were a few tense moments, but mostly, this was another "nice" kidnapping story. Hattie was treated nicely by her kidnapper. Her biggest concern was fighting her attraction to her abductor...and she wasn't very convincing.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Hattie and Ryker, but did spend plenty of time rolling my eyes as well. They flip-flopped so frequently, and without warning, that I felt like I would get whiplash. One minute they hated each other, then they were making out without any reasonable build-up or explanation. It left me feeling kind of disjointed.
All in all, it was a good start. Several things could be improved upon, but the storyline was intriguing. I am curious to see where the future will lead for these two. With all the unprotected sex they had, I'm sure there is bound to be a baby on the way. I'm also interested in discovering the full extent of Evan's family's involvement with the cartel. I will most likely continue the series in the future, but I'm not in any rush.
Hattie was the quintessential "good girl". She was born into a political, wealthy family and lived a regimented life of "privilege". Every aspect of her life fit the mold her social-climbing mother set for her life. She hadt He right clothes, the right internship and the right boyfriend for political success.
When her "perfect" boyfriend, Evan, is caught in a compromising position, Hattie throws caution to the wind and goes on a trip to Mexico with her best friend. Living recklessly for the first time, Hattie soon finds herself regretting her impulsive decision. She is drugged and kidnapped by Ryker, the sexy man she met at the bar on a night out.
It seems that Hattie's political connections are the motivation for her abduction. Ryker is the son of the kingpin of the notorious Vargas drug cartel. As the Attorney General of the United States, Hattie's father has the power to secure the release of Ryker's brother in exchange for Hattie.
Although the book started with a ominously dark feeling, it failed to deliver on that account. There were a few tense moments, but mostly, this was another "nice" kidnapping story. Hattie was treated nicely by her kidnapper. Her biggest concern was fighting her attraction to her abductor...and she wasn't very convincing.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Hattie and Ryker, but did spend plenty of time rolling my eyes as well. They flip-flopped so frequently, and without warning, that I felt like I would get whiplash. One minute they hated each other, then they were making out without any reasonable build-up or explanation. It left me feeling kind of disjointed.
All in all, it was a good start. Several things could be improved upon, but the storyline was intriguing. I am curious to see where the future will lead for these two. With all the unprotected sex they had, I'm sure there is bound to be a baby on the way. I'm also interested in discovering the full extent of Evan's family's involvement with the cartel. I will most likely continue the series in the future, but I'm not in any rush.
March 18, 2015
TITLE: The Bargain
SERIES: (Vargas Cartel, Book 1)
AUTHOR: Lisa Cardiff
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: Published March 17th 2015
MY RATING: ★★★★★
5 Mr. Dark and Sexy Stars
Get ready for one gritty crazy hell of a ride!!
This is the first book I have read by this author..I fell in love with her writing style, easy flow from page to page, and no over use of words, she had me hooked right from the start and second after second, minute after minute, hour after hour I was a goner, for the life of me I could not put this book down..I loved, loved, loved the story line, the characters, and the fact there is more to come and I can not wait!! I love finding books like this where the outside world ceases to exist and you just get lost within the pages..I will be stalking this authors ass literally to find out when the next book is due out in this series!!
My name is Hattie Covington and I'm a prisoner of the Vargas Cartel, I opened my eyes, but everything was black, I wanted to scream, but my mouth was full, I was tied to a chair, ropes bit into my wrists and ankles, I didn't have a f*cking clue where I was..
A random guy from a random bar, A dirty little secret
Mr,Dark and Sexy sitting at the end of the bar, hasn't taken his eyes off you for the last ten minutes.
The story pretty much starts off with the kidnapping, we are given pieces of the puzzle as the pages turn, why she ended up where she is, why she was kidnapped and who kidnapped her..
"My dad is the Attorney General of the United States," I yelled.
"And that's exactly why you're here."
Best friends Hattie and Vera embark on an innocent trip to Mexico which takes a turn for the worst
Who the f*ck was this man? He scattered my thoughts and turned me into liquid fire within minutes...no seconds, I pulled his face to mine, sucking his tongue into my mouth. He tasted of tequila and sin, and I wanted more. I demanded more.
"Sorry," he murmured, his gray eyes simmering with regret, without warning, a sharp object pierced the skin of my neck.
This is where shit starts getting real!!
I'm being held captive by a ruthless cartel
The Vargas Cartel had a distinguished record as drug traffickers, arms traffickers, and highly efficient executors.
All is not what it seems
"Nothing is the way it seems, there are layers upon layers of things going on here. This isn't just about you. Remember that, and you;ll be fine."
God damn it I need book 2 NOW!!
December 10, 2018
3 Spanish Fail STARS
Como las escritoras anglosajonas creen que son los Narcotraficantes Mexicanos(izquierda), y como en realidad son (derecha).
Ok dejando de lado lo poco creíble de la historia, me la pase muy bien leyéndola, me entretuvo, me engancho, me enamoro, Riker is so fuckin HOT.
¿El libro me gusto? SI
¿Voy a seguir la serie? Si porque me dejo súper enganchada.
PEROOOOOOOOO:
Tienen los peores diálogos en español que he leído
Sé que la autora quería darle un poco de realismo a la historia poniendo diálogos en español, pero la verdad es que solo arruino y le bajo puntos al libro, si no hubiera sido por esas horribles traducciones le hubiera dado 4 o hasta 5 estrellas.
Ejemplos:
“Gracias por complaciente mi novia y yo.”
La siguiente frase era una de las más importantes, ya que se supone que debe causar impacto y temor. Pero el error le quita todo el valor y lo peor es que la repite varias veces con el mismo error.
“ VC captura y exucutes traidores.”
En conclusión: la autora necesita dejar de añadir diálogos en español, por el bien de la historia.
Como las escritoras anglosajonas creen que son los Narcotraficantes Mexicanos(izquierda), y como en realidad son (derecha).
Ok dejando de lado lo poco creíble de la historia, me la pase muy bien leyéndola, me entretuvo, me engancho, me enamoro, Riker is so fuckin HOT.
¿El libro me gusto? SI
¿Voy a seguir la serie? Si porque me dejo súper enganchada.
PEROOOOOOOOO:
Tienen los peores diálogos en español que he leído
Sé que la autora quería darle un poco de realismo a la historia poniendo diálogos en español, pero la verdad es que solo arruino y le bajo puntos al libro, si no hubiera sido por esas horribles traducciones le hubiera dado 4 o hasta 5 estrellas.
Ejemplos:
“Gracias por complaciente mi novia y yo.”
La siguiente frase era una de las más importantes, ya que se supone que debe causar impacto y temor. Pero el error le quita todo el valor y lo peor es que la repite varias veces con el mismo error.
“ VC captura y exucutes traidores.”
En conclusión: la autora necesita dejar de añadir diálogos en español, por el bien de la historia.
January 30, 2019
Cartel hostage captive romance....
This was a good cartel captive romance. The only reason I rated it a three was because there wasn’t much build between the main characters. It was like she was sprung on him after they had one intimate encounter. Which instalove is fine, but in this circumstance it’s hard to believe it went so quickly. I’m pretty sure I’ll finish out the trilogy because I want to see if they get a HEA!
This was a good cartel captive romance. The only reason I rated it a three was because there wasn’t much build between the main characters. It was like she was sprung on him after they had one intimate encounter. Which instalove is fine, but in this circumstance it’s hard to believe it went so quickly. I’m pretty sure I’ll finish out the trilogy because I want to see if they get a HEA!
April 7, 2015
And now I have to wait for the second book to be published :( (frustrated reader)
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March 25, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/25/2020)! 🎁
March 5, 2015
For me there were two major emotions going and that was even before I started the book, excitement and nervousness, and both of those emotions were thanks to the blurb. Once I started reading I was eager, eager to see what the hell goes down, and then there was a cliffhanger so now I'm eager for the next book. Well not really a cliffhanger I mean the issues get resolved but it wasn't where I wanted Hattie and Ryker to be so that's why I say a cliffhanger. Ryker it was touch and go with him I liked him at times, like when he was caring, "no, you're not fine, and your condition definitely matters," he said gruffly as he wrapped his arms around me and lifted me from the ground." Then there were times where I borderline disliked him because he was becoming a borderline a**, "if I said all of the above, would you be happy? Or maybe I should apologize for everything but effing you." He cocked his head to the side, and a lock of midnight colored hair veiled his expressive eyebrows. "My memory is hazy, but I think you enjoyed it." Then he was a total a** and I didn't like that side, but he then went back to being sweet which gave me whiplash, "yes. I arranged for you to have a room in the villa." He glanced over his shoulder. "Next to mine, so I can check on your from time to time, but for the most part, you'll be free to roam the villa and it's grounds." I liked the relationship that was starting to develop between Hattie and Ryker I want to see more so I'm hoping the second book hurries the hell up and gets here.
March 18, 2015
What better way to celebrate your boyfriend cheating on you, but to spend your spring break in Mexico? That is until you find yourself kidnapped and wrapped up in a political/drug trafficking struggle.
That's where Hattie finds herself, kidnapped by the most gorgeous man she has ever seen.
Wow this book was a smoking hot, emotional ride.
I love Hattie's determination, but wanted to smack her on the hand.
Won't go into much detail so I dnt ruin it.
I also totally hate cliff hangers.. But can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
** I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
That's where Hattie finds herself, kidnapped by the most gorgeous man she has ever seen.
Wow this book was a smoking hot, emotional ride.
I love Hattie's determination, but wanted to smack her on the hand.
Won't go into much detail so I dnt ruin it.
I also totally hate cliff hangers.. But can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
** I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
April 11, 2015
I've heard about all things involving cartels. It's deadly. It's disgusting. It's not human. Then WHY do I love this book so much? I feel like something is wrong with me because I wouldn't mind being kidnapped and having Ryker with me.
Hattie takes a detour from her perfect life after her boyfriend is caught cheating on her. She never meant to get involved with a dangerous man. But she did. And now she's feeling confused on what to feel. Ryker turned her life upside down. But Hattie doesn't want to leave him...
I'm so intrigued by this story! I can't wait for the next book. Especially because how this one ended. It's not the ending I wanted. Boo. Can't wait to see what comes up next!!!!!
Hattie takes a detour from her perfect life after her boyfriend is caught cheating on her. She never meant to get involved with a dangerous man. But she did. And now she's feeling confused on what to feel. Ryker turned her life upside down. But Hattie doesn't want to leave him...
I'm so intrigued by this story! I can't wait for the next book. Especially because how this one ended. It's not the ending I wanted. Boo. Can't wait to see what comes up next!!!!!
June 4, 2017
3 1/2 stars
What did I just read? What a total mind F!
I don't know what to think, but now I have to read the next to find out what is going to happen
What did I just read? What a total mind F!
I don't know what to think, but now I have to read the next to find out what is going to happen
March 30, 2015
Hattie Covington:
One moment I have my boyfriend Evan, the man I thought I'd marry. Life was good. Then I realize the truth, it was all an shattered illusion . This realization derailed my life and it changed the course of everything.
Ryker Vargas, I want him but I shouldn't. What is wrong with me? He abducted me. He sucked me in with his web of lies and now its too late. I'm scared because I’m a prisoner of the Vargas Cartel. But when I'm near him I feel safe. How is that possible? Maybe I have stockholm syndrome because I have feeling for my abductor.
My entire future washed away by an impulsive, split second decision. Life can change in an instant and my instant changed everything. Can I survive this?
I seriously loved this book. I was hooked instantly. It an thrill ride of a story with twists and turns that keep you guessing what will happen next. I felt just like Hattie, that she was crazy to fall for her captor but I fell for him hard too. Man oh Man, Ryker is smoking hot with that mix of danger and sexiness that would drive any abductee wild. He is sex on a stick and I just want a lick. Evan, I want to smack him so hard. Hattie, I just love that girl and I feel her emotions and I am right there with her.
What a great book! I want more and can't wait for the next book. This one ends with a lot of questions in the air and has a cliffhanger that makes me want to yell,What just happened? It's a MUST read!! Go one click this one!!
One moment I have my boyfriend Evan, the man I thought I'd marry. Life was good. Then I realize the truth, it was all an shattered illusion . This realization derailed my life and it changed the course of everything.
Ryker Vargas, I want him but I shouldn't. What is wrong with me? He abducted me. He sucked me in with his web of lies and now its too late. I'm scared because I’m a prisoner of the Vargas Cartel. But when I'm near him I feel safe. How is that possible? Maybe I have stockholm syndrome because I have feeling for my abductor.
My entire future washed away by an impulsive, split second decision. Life can change in an instant and my instant changed everything. Can I survive this?
I seriously loved this book. I was hooked instantly. It an thrill ride of a story with twists and turns that keep you guessing what will happen next. I felt just like Hattie, that she was crazy to fall for her captor but I fell for him hard too. Man oh Man, Ryker is smoking hot with that mix of danger and sexiness that would drive any abductee wild. He is sex on a stick and I just want a lick. Evan, I want to smack him so hard. Hattie, I just love that girl and I feel her emotions and I am right there with her.
What a great book! I want more and can't wait for the next book. This one ends with a lot of questions in the air and has a cliffhanger that makes me want to yell,What just happened? It's a MUST read!! Go one click this one!!
March 15, 2015
This book is a must read! From the start you know it's going to be an amazing ride, and as you read, the ride gets better and better. The book is the perfect amount of steam and suspense. The story line flows perfectly and keeps you hooked to the very last word. And then make you want to threaten/beg whoever it is you have to, to get your hands on the next one.
The story follows Hattie Covington, who has been kidnapped for "unknown" reasons. Her kidnapper, Ryker Vargas, is everything sinful you wish you could have, but shouldn't want. He is mysterious in a sexy way, and dare I say.....a gentleman? Crazy right? A kidnapper? A gentleman? If a sexy gentleman were to become a kidnapper. Ryker Vargas would be his name. Hattie herself was a very likable character. She may be kidnapped but she is no damsel waiting to be rescued. She is strong minded and resilient, two of my favorite traits in a heroine. The secondary characters in the book were great. Ryker's dad was someone you didn't want to like, but couldn't help to. Now Hattie's family on the other hand, I wanted to slap the sense into them, twice.
The book captures your interest and doesn't let up till the end. And even at the end when we find out why Hattie was kidnapped. We are left with our jaws left hanging on the ground for quite some time. We try to guess why this cartel was after Hattie. But we are never able to guess. And then, holy plot twist! I can't wait for book two! Go out and get yours now! You'll thank me for it!
*ARC GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY PUBLISHER VIA NET GALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
The story follows Hattie Covington, who has been kidnapped for "unknown" reasons. Her kidnapper, Ryker Vargas, is everything sinful you wish you could have, but shouldn't want. He is mysterious in a sexy way, and dare I say.....a gentleman? Crazy right? A kidnapper? A gentleman? If a sexy gentleman were to become a kidnapper. Ryker Vargas would be his name. Hattie herself was a very likable character. She may be kidnapped but she is no damsel waiting to be rescued. She is strong minded and resilient, two of my favorite traits in a heroine. The secondary characters in the book were great. Ryker's dad was someone you didn't want to like, but couldn't help to. Now Hattie's family on the other hand, I wanted to slap the sense into them, twice.
The book captures your interest and doesn't let up till the end. And even at the end when we find out why Hattie was kidnapped. We are left with our jaws left hanging on the ground for quite some time. We try to guess why this cartel was after Hattie. But we are never able to guess. And then, holy plot twist! I can't wait for book two! Go out and get yours now! You'll thank me for it!
*ARC GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY PUBLISHER VIA NET GALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
March 15, 2015
This has been one of the best books I have read so far this year. It was predictable in parts and that is okay because of how well the story was written, the great characters that felt so real and the emotions that the story evoked. Hattie is at a crossroads in her life and decides to get away from it all with her friend Vera to Mexico. A trip away to unwind has turned into a nightmare after she meets the sexy Ryker and is taken. The next book can go in so many different directions, that I look forward to finding out which way the author has in store.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2015
Received as an ARC for an honest review.
This book was well written and developed. The characters showed sides of vulnerability as well as strength and with this type of book the characters need to show both.
looking forward to more in the series.
will also check out the other books by this author.
This book was well written and developed. The characters showed sides of vulnerability as well as strength and with this type of book the characters need to show both.
looking forward to more in the series.
will also check out the other books by this author.
March 8, 2016
So this was a love/hate book for me. I loved Ryker yet I hated Hattie. Her personality just annoyed the ever living life out of me. The plot was nice, though it was predictable. Honestly if not for Ryker I would of wanted to throw this one at the wall, but he made it enjoyable.
May 11, 2016
Definitely worth the time, but you'll want and need to have Unveiled locked and loaded to start immediately after finishing this one!
March 28, 2015
Full review posted at http://guiltyindulgencebookclub.blogs...
March 18, 2015
The Bargain, Vargas Cartel 1, Lisa Cardiff
Genre: Mystery and Thrillers, Romance.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I’ve found some real gems in this type of read, the captive/capturer one. Karina Halle’s Dirty Angels immediately springs to mind – possibly because of Javier Bernal...oh come on – who’s kidding, of course it’s because of Javier so I wondered how this one would work out. Its a tough task though, making a violent kidnapper and a drugs/crime background into a love story.
So did it work for me? Well...yes, and no. There were things that went well, and I really got into the story, but then sometimes I just couldn’t see either of the two main characters acting as they did. Whereas in DA it took some time for the relationship to go from hate to love, here its a bit too quick. Its clear Ryker is seriously attractive and Hattie’s really upset after Evan’s betrayal, so the first scene when she’s a bit drunk works well for me, and of course sets the kidnap up. Then she’s a captive, and in real danger if she doesn’t play along. The capture, her reactions and the escape attempts felt very real but.....and this is where it falls down for me, the time span is so short, and she’s still in the mix of hating Ryker and yet wanting him. I just can’t see why he would risk so much. I didn’t feel “the love” between them, certainly the lust on first meeting, but now she knows that was a set up why is she still so ready to let him do whatever he wants – and why does he want to, when he can get sex anywhere, any time? I needed to feel a bit more of a connection between them than just a searing, physical attraction – something that would explain why they both risked so much. In such a short time, just a couple of weeks I just can’t see that happening. If it was a couple of months I could understand more, even 4-6 weeks, there would be time to get to know each other, esp given their scenario where Hattie’s trapped and dependent on Ryker for everything. Here though Ryker gets pulled from the day to day stuff with her after another problem, when his dad decides enough is enough, so he has virtually no contact with her then.
I liked the way the characters were set out, with Hattie being a genuinely nice person, one who’s solid and loyal, and who was devastated by her boyfriend's infidelity. She’s clearly bright too, and with parents who’re ambitious for her, and I just couldn't see her throwing all her plans away for someone who she’d known just a couple of days, who’d tricked her, kidnapped her and lead her into real danger into the drugs underworld. Ryker, he’d had a tough upbringing, and yet clawed his way out into a role where he’s a kind of mercenary, a man for hire for what presumably are some dirty jobs. Now his drug lord father needs him for something, and as its a blood tie, he steps in as ever and helps. That brings Hattie into his eye line and he’s attracted. OK so far but....it’s hard to see why he’d take things further. At times he’s kind to her – well, relatively – given the circumstances, and then he’s promptly an ass, a real jerk, and that gives me the feeling he’s confused, and again with a longer build up that would all work well for me.
Oddly I’ve just reviewed another story, different scene but one where the action again covers a couple of weeks, and the mental turnaround of the main characters is so massive that I felt it too needed more time...maybe its just me, that I need a bit more believability before I can be convinced. Ah well....The end – a couple of real surprises there, that I hadn’t seen coming and that set up the next book nicely and despite my reservations I do want to read more.
Stars: Three and a half. It’s a mixed bag here but enough to make me want to read more.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers.
Genre: Mystery and Thrillers, Romance.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I’ve found some real gems in this type of read, the captive/capturer one. Karina Halle’s Dirty Angels immediately springs to mind – possibly because of Javier Bernal...oh come on – who’s kidding, of course it’s because of Javier so I wondered how this one would work out. Its a tough task though, making a violent kidnapper and a drugs/crime background into a love story.
So did it work for me? Well...yes, and no. There were things that went well, and I really got into the story, but then sometimes I just couldn’t see either of the two main characters acting as they did. Whereas in DA it took some time for the relationship to go from hate to love, here its a bit too quick. Its clear Ryker is seriously attractive and Hattie’s really upset after Evan’s betrayal, so the first scene when she’s a bit drunk works well for me, and of course sets the kidnap up. Then she’s a captive, and in real danger if she doesn’t play along. The capture, her reactions and the escape attempts felt very real but.....and this is where it falls down for me, the time span is so short, and she’s still in the mix of hating Ryker and yet wanting him. I just can’t see why he would risk so much. I didn’t feel “the love” between them, certainly the lust on first meeting, but now she knows that was a set up why is she still so ready to let him do whatever he wants – and why does he want to, when he can get sex anywhere, any time? I needed to feel a bit more of a connection between them than just a searing, physical attraction – something that would explain why they both risked so much. In such a short time, just a couple of weeks I just can’t see that happening. If it was a couple of months I could understand more, even 4-6 weeks, there would be time to get to know each other, esp given their scenario where Hattie’s trapped and dependent on Ryker for everything. Here though Ryker gets pulled from the day to day stuff with her after another problem, when his dad decides enough is enough, so he has virtually no contact with her then.
I liked the way the characters were set out, with Hattie being a genuinely nice person, one who’s solid and loyal, and who was devastated by her boyfriend's infidelity. She’s clearly bright too, and with parents who’re ambitious for her, and I just couldn't see her throwing all her plans away for someone who she’d known just a couple of days, who’d tricked her, kidnapped her and lead her into real danger into the drugs underworld. Ryker, he’d had a tough upbringing, and yet clawed his way out into a role where he’s a kind of mercenary, a man for hire for what presumably are some dirty jobs. Now his drug lord father needs him for something, and as its a blood tie, he steps in as ever and helps. That brings Hattie into his eye line and he’s attracted. OK so far but....it’s hard to see why he’d take things further. At times he’s kind to her – well, relatively – given the circumstances, and then he’s promptly an ass, a real jerk, and that gives me the feeling he’s confused, and again with a longer build up that would all work well for me.
Oddly I’ve just reviewed another story, different scene but one where the action again covers a couple of weeks, and the mental turnaround of the main characters is so massive that I felt it too needed more time...maybe its just me, that I need a bit more believability before I can be convinced. Ah well....The end – a couple of real surprises there, that I hadn’t seen coming and that set up the next book nicely and despite my reservations I do want to read more.
Stars: Three and a half. It’s a mixed bag here but enough to make me want to read more.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers.
March 27, 2015
A terrifying, life-changing story involving both sides of the law, and both sides of the Mexican border. Mixed signals and agonizing pleasure are the cherries on top.
Hattie Covington is the daughter of the U.S. Attorney General. Politics have always been a part of her life. Thus opening the door to how her life will be. Perfect job, spouse, anything politically appropriate. Until she finds out that things aren't exactly so great and perfect. She heads to Mexico to get away from it all. Her friend finally gets her to live a little and have some fun. Well, one thing lead to another and she suddenly ends up in the hands od the Vargas Cartel, all part of an exchange transaction. Her life doesn't seem so bad now, but is there something or someone that is making her see others things more promising?
The characters' names bugged me a bit, but not to where I couldn't stand them any longer that I had to stop reading.
I give kudos to Hattie for not giving in, even if it was hard not to. Brownie points for not letting the blame being wrongly put onto her. She had a lot of guts at times that were crucial.
Ryker was hot and cold. For obvious reasons. Showed a lot more of himself, personally, than I expected him to do, especially so eary on in the story.
I expected a more gruesome, you know, gun blazin', and a good ol' Mexican stand off sort of thing. Yes, there was some actioon, and talk of some pretty horrid stuff, but not as much as I was preparing myself for. The story was romantisized to mostly circulate aroundd Ryker and Hattie's time together. And the cheating Evan, somewhere in the shadows.
There were a lot of times Hattie could've wound up being shot, killed, molested. But it could have been luck, or Ryker's influence. Or Ignacio's influence. I mean, it was obvious from the beginning that they didn't plan on harming her. And that there were bigger things at play. Things she would not fathom.
I have my theories, but I'd be spoiling y'all.
I liked the fact that I have theories, predictions of what I think'll happen next. Who knows? I certainly didn't expect this story's ending.
Overall, my reading experience was very consuming and intriguing. I was bummed that the next book isn't on Goodreads yet, but I'll be waiting! You go in expecting one thing, but end up with the same scenary from a different direction.
Hattie Covington is the daughter of the U.S. Attorney General. Politics have always been a part of her life. Thus opening the door to how her life will be. Perfect job, spouse, anything politically appropriate. Until she finds out that things aren't exactly so great and perfect. She heads to Mexico to get away from it all. Her friend finally gets her to live a little and have some fun. Well, one thing lead to another and she suddenly ends up in the hands od the Vargas Cartel, all part of an exchange transaction. Her life doesn't seem so bad now, but is there something or someone that is making her see others things more promising?
The characters' names bugged me a bit, but not to where I couldn't stand them any longer that I had to stop reading.
I give kudos to Hattie for not giving in, even if it was hard not to. Brownie points for not letting the blame being wrongly put onto her. She had a lot of guts at times that were crucial.
Ryker was hot and cold. For obvious reasons. Showed a lot more of himself, personally, than I expected him to do, especially so eary on in the story.
I expected a more gruesome, you know, gun blazin', and a good ol' Mexican stand off sort of thing. Yes, there was some actioon, and talk of some pretty horrid stuff, but not as much as I was preparing myself for. The story was romantisized to mostly circulate aroundd Ryker and Hattie's time together. And the cheating Evan, somewhere in the shadows.
There were a lot of times Hattie could've wound up being shot, killed, molested. But it could have been luck, or Ryker's influence. Or Ignacio's influence. I mean, it was obvious from the beginning that they didn't plan on harming her. And that there were bigger things at play. Things she would not fathom.
I have my theories, but I'd be spoiling y'all.
I liked the fact that I have theories, predictions of what I think'll happen next. Who knows? I certainly didn't expect this story's ending.
Overall, my reading experience was very consuming and intriguing. I was bummed that the next book isn't on Goodreads yet, but I'll be waiting! You go in expecting one thing, but end up with the same scenary from a different direction.
March 19, 2015
Received this from ARC for a review.
IT WAS JUST WOW HOT.. The Bargain
Great book it had me enthralled the whole time. I was a little apprehensive at first with it having a drug cartel involved. But it was great. From the 1st page to the last it kept me going to where at the end of the book I did not want it to end. Can not wait till the next one.
Hattie is the daughter of the US attorney general and has always had to watch her “P’s and Q’s”. With her mother always on her about her dress and equate Hattie doesn’t know who the real she is. She finds her self in a relationship that she has feeling for but it’s more of what’s expected from her. Does she really love him? That is where she finds her self when she catches him cheating on her in a bar full of friends. Hattie needs excitement and that is just what she finds with her best friend on a vacation at the beach. She has no one around to tell her how to act and what to wear and No she can’t find a stranger for a one night stand. That is just what she finds in the sexy mysterious Ryker Vargas. She does not know it yet but he has been following her for months and knows all about Hattie and all that she needs. Its just one night she thinks I need one night to let go and let the desires I already feel take over with just one look. Little does she know that there is something so much more then just a one night with the dominating Ryker? He will test her wills and self respect. Hattie lets some of her walls down only to big them right back up and fight him tooth and nail. She never forgot that she could still be strong and not make it easy for anyone.
IT WAS JUST WOW HOT.. The Bargain
Great book it had me enthralled the whole time. I was a little apprehensive at first with it having a drug cartel involved. But it was great. From the 1st page to the last it kept me going to where at the end of the book I did not want it to end. Can not wait till the next one.
Hattie is the daughter of the US attorney general and has always had to watch her “P’s and Q’s”. With her mother always on her about her dress and equate Hattie doesn’t know who the real she is. She finds her self in a relationship that she has feeling for but it’s more of what’s expected from her. Does she really love him? That is where she finds her self when she catches him cheating on her in a bar full of friends. Hattie needs excitement and that is just what she finds with her best friend on a vacation at the beach. She has no one around to tell her how to act and what to wear and No she can’t find a stranger for a one night stand. That is just what she finds in the sexy mysterious Ryker Vargas. She does not know it yet but he has been following her for months and knows all about Hattie and all that she needs. Its just one night she thinks I need one night to let go and let the desires I already feel take over with just one look. Little does she know that there is something so much more then just a one night with the dominating Ryker? He will test her wills and self respect. Hattie lets some of her walls down only to big them right back up and fight him tooth and nail. She never forgot that she could still be strong and not make it easy for anyone.
April 7, 2015
These types of reviews are always the hardest to write. When I love or dislike a book it's easy. However when a novel draws little emotion from me I always find it hard to write something.
I liked the idea behind the book, but it just didn't live up to my expectations. For me it was underdeveloped in the creation of the cartel and I found it all rather hard to believe. I wanted to like this book, but it had me rolling my eyes and questioning what was written constantly. The members of the cartel revealed way too much information, they weren't cruel enough, their actions seemed odd, and they seemed rather disorganised. I mean, wouldn't the main villa be flooded with guards? How would one untrained woman escape so much?
Similarly, the action scenes weren't believable. How can one guy take out 3 armed men without one of them having a chance to shoot him? It was all a bit Hollywood rather than realistic, and with a backdrop of drug cartels it needed that ruthless brutality. These types of people don't mess around and it was all too hesitant.
Also, I didn't buy the romantic element. I understand Stockholm syndrome but it all seemed too quick. If someone drugged me, bound me, and kidnapped me, they'd have to do more than Ryker did before I was asking for sex. I didn't buy the time scale and the writing style felt repetitive, which made it hard to care or stay engaged.
Overall, although it wasn't a bad read, it just wasn't for me. I found it hard to believe in or connect with and thought it needed more development. I've read better books in this genre that have solid world building. Although it ends on a cliff hanger it hasn't really made me want to read more. It may be for you if you like simpler plots, but it didn't work for me.
I liked the idea behind the book, but it just didn't live up to my expectations. For me it was underdeveloped in the creation of the cartel and I found it all rather hard to believe. I wanted to like this book, but it had me rolling my eyes and questioning what was written constantly. The members of the cartel revealed way too much information, they weren't cruel enough, their actions seemed odd, and they seemed rather disorganised. I mean, wouldn't the main villa be flooded with guards? How would one untrained woman escape so much?
Similarly, the action scenes weren't believable. How can one guy take out 3 armed men without one of them having a chance to shoot him? It was all a bit Hollywood rather than realistic, and with a backdrop of drug cartels it needed that ruthless brutality. These types of people don't mess around and it was all too hesitant.
Also, I didn't buy the romantic element. I understand Stockholm syndrome but it all seemed too quick. If someone drugged me, bound me, and kidnapped me, they'd have to do more than Ryker did before I was asking for sex. I didn't buy the time scale and the writing style felt repetitive, which made it hard to care or stay engaged.
Overall, although it wasn't a bad read, it just wasn't for me. I found it hard to believe in or connect with and thought it needed more development. I've read better books in this genre that have solid world building. Although it ends on a cliff hanger it hasn't really made me want to read more. It may be for you if you like simpler plots, but it didn't work for me.
April 24, 2016
Nope. This book did not do it for me. I love a good dark romance, but no, not this. This is somewhat of a spoiler, but since I didn't finish reading it I can't say how it ends.
I thought the book started off really well. Ryker went from being a dark and sexy asshole, as any good villan should be (in my opinion) to almost immediately being a push over. And Hattie, ugh, just ugh. I liked her so much in the beginning, but her character went immediately down hill when after just a few days of being a captive she falls head first into Stockholm syndrome (her words) and let's Ryker go down on her and holds him there because it felt soo good; she just couldn't help herself.
I mean she couldn't even put up a little fight or struggle, even mentally, really?
I think my biggest complaint is that when I first started to read this book I had the mindset that this was going to be dark romance and that sex was at least questionably constenual, but I didn't get that vibe at all from this book.
I gave it two stars since the beginning of the book started off really well and grabbed my attention and the sex scenes were really steamy, or at least the two I read. I stopped reading around 40% of the book. It just drove me crazy in the scene where Hattie held Ryker's head while he was going down on her and like I said before had only been a captive for a few days.
I thought the book started off really well. Ryker went from being a dark and sexy asshole, as any good villan should be (in my opinion) to almost immediately being a push over. And Hattie, ugh, just ugh. I liked her so much in the beginning, but her character went immediately down hill when after just a few days of being a captive she falls head first into Stockholm syndrome (her words) and let's Ryker go down on her and holds him there because it felt soo good; she just couldn't help herself.
I mean she couldn't even put up a little fight or struggle, even mentally, really?
I think my biggest complaint is that when I first started to read this book I had the mindset that this was going to be dark romance and that sex was at least questionably constenual, but I didn't get that vibe at all from this book.
I gave it two stars since the beginning of the book started off really well and grabbed my attention and the sex scenes were really steamy, or at least the two I read. I stopped reading around 40% of the book. It just drove me crazy in the scene where Hattie held Ryker's head while he was going down on her and like I said before had only been a captive for a few days.
March 17, 2015
Hattie's whole world changes the moment she finds her boyfriend Evan cheating on her. Instead of being with him, she goes on a trip to Mexico with her best friend. On a night out with her bestie she meets Ryker and they share a steamy moment pressed again a wall outside of the club. Unfortunately she passes out drugged by him right after that and wakes tied to a chair. The cartel is using her a leverage to get someone in the US freed. Turns out Ryker's daddy is the head honcho and damn he's scary. Proven by the car ride he takes Hattie one day. Scary.
This is definitely a hostage falling or her captor story, but there is a whole lot surrounding that going on. Hattie is part of a political family and with that comes some serious pressure. For Hattie that comes from her mom who lets her know how things are when cheater cheater waves his manwhore flag and Hattie says "no thanks" to his lame apology. I didn't trust Evan as far as I could throw him and his freakin' flag. Then there's Ryker who is the king of the hot and cold I want you I can't have you game. Not trusting him either. Yes I wanted to give a shake or two to Hattie, but I have faith that this smart girl will figure all things out in the next book. I can't wait to see what happens next.
I give The Bargain 4 hearts!
This is definitely a hostage falling or her captor story, but there is a whole lot surrounding that going on. Hattie is part of a political family and with that comes some serious pressure. For Hattie that comes from her mom who lets her know how things are when cheater cheater waves his manwhore flag and Hattie says "no thanks" to his lame apology. I didn't trust Evan as far as I could throw him and his freakin' flag. Then there's Ryker who is the king of the hot and cold I want you I can't have you game. Not trusting him either. Yes I wanted to give a shake or two to Hattie, but I have faith that this smart girl will figure all things out in the next book. I can't wait to see what happens next.
I give The Bargain 4 hearts!
March 10, 2015
Excellent book!
In a world full of politics and crime.. This story pulls you in and holds on tight right till the end!
Hattie being raised the perfect child to follow in her parents footsteps. With her perfect boyfriend Evan who was molded to same lifestyle and expectancy to stay by his side, Hattie's life gets turned upside down when she discovers things weren't as perfect as she believed them to be. With the sudden need to get away and clear her head, Hattie heads off to Mexico for Spring break with her best friend Vera.
Trying to forget the events at home and with a lot of liquid courage flowing through her system, Hattie approaches a hot stranger at the bar, Ryker!
The son of the head leader of the notorious Vargas Cartel, has more than just eyes for Hattie. Seducing her than abducting her- her upturned life in the U.S. Is nothing compared to what she goes through under the direction of the Cartel.
I could not put this book down! The words flowed through the entire story and the angst, heartache, and curiosity kept me on edge. The romance was hot & steamy.
Definelty recommend d this book and can't wait to read more of this author.
In a world full of politics and crime.. This story pulls you in and holds on tight right till the end!
Hattie being raised the perfect child to follow in her parents footsteps. With her perfect boyfriend Evan who was molded to same lifestyle and expectancy to stay by his side, Hattie's life gets turned upside down when she discovers things weren't as perfect as she believed them to be. With the sudden need to get away and clear her head, Hattie heads off to Mexico for Spring break with her best friend Vera.
Trying to forget the events at home and with a lot of liquid courage flowing through her system, Hattie approaches a hot stranger at the bar, Ryker!
The son of the head leader of the notorious Vargas Cartel, has more than just eyes for Hattie. Seducing her than abducting her- her upturned life in the U.S. Is nothing compared to what she goes through under the direction of the Cartel.
I could not put this book down! The words flowed through the entire story and the angst, heartache, and curiosity kept me on edge. The romance was hot & steamy.
Definelty recommend d this book and can't wait to read more of this author.
March 7, 2015
Let me start off by saying I did not see that coming and ending up not really...seriously you can't do that to me.
Hattie is a politician's daughter, her boyfriend's father is a state senator. She wants to go into politics herself, but one night changes her life course and leads her right into the path of Ryker.
A trip to Mexico does not go the way she hopes and lets just say it's really not what you would expect. Ryker and Hattie are something else entirely and I enjoyed both of their characters. I can say that this book really doesn't end in a cliff hanger because lets face it the main issues of the book is settled. The ending leaves it for the next book to pick up and continue on (which it better;)
Really enjoyed reading this one.
Hattie is a politician's daughter, her boyfriend's father is a state senator. She wants to go into politics herself, but one night changes her life course and leads her right into the path of Ryker.
A trip to Mexico does not go the way she hopes and lets just say it's really not what you would expect. Ryker and Hattie are something else entirely and I enjoyed both of their characters. I can say that this book really doesn't end in a cliff hanger because lets face it the main issues of the book is settled. The ending leaves it for the next book to pick up and continue on (which it better;)
Really enjoyed reading this one.
March 26, 2016
Although this was not as dark as I thought it was going to be I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
Hattie finds her long time boyfriend in a compromising position and comes to realise in the 4 yrs they have been together he has cheated on her. She breaks things off cancels a trip and books a new one with a friend to Mexico.
At her friends urging they go to a club where Hattie meets Ryker. She thinks its just one night of hot and heavy sex but Ryker has other ideas.
Now kidnapped and in the clutches of the Vargas Cartel Hattie is their cargo until demands are met.
This instalment told from Hattie's POV and has a really nice twist at the end.
I am really hoping Evan and his father get what is coming to them in the next instalment.
Hattie finds her long time boyfriend in a compromising position and comes to realise in the 4 yrs they have been together he has cheated on her. She breaks things off cancels a trip and books a new one with a friend to Mexico.
At her friends urging they go to a club where Hattie meets Ryker. She thinks its just one night of hot and heavy sex but Ryker has other ideas.
Now kidnapped and in the clutches of the Vargas Cartel Hattie is their cargo until demands are met.
This instalment told from Hattie's POV and has a really nice twist at the end.
I am really hoping Evan and his father get what is coming to them in the next instalment.
May 14, 2015
Ummmm... I don't really know where to begin. It started off well.. girl gets kidnapped in mexico by a cartel... yadda yadda yadda.... and kind of goes downhill from there. I was skimming pages just to get to the good stuff. The sex was good then got less interesting. The twist in the end wasn't so much surprising as a 'what the hell was that'... eyebrows scrunched up moments.
March 22, 2015
surely you can't end it like that!!!! please tell me there will be a book 2!!!
March 22, 2015
Yes I really loved this story and can't wait for the next one, many questions unanswered. At times I felt frustrated with Hettie but it was such a good story so I forgave some of her idiotic moments.
October 13, 2015
5 Stars!
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