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Miranda Vaughn Mysteries #2
Dropping the Dime
From USA Today bestselling author Ellie Ashe...
Miranda Vaughn was once falsely accused of stealing millions, and now she’s helping others who are facing criminal charges. While being an assistant to her former defense attorney isn’t Miranda’s dream job, she’s eager to prove herself, and her first task is a simple one—protect Kathryn, a shy CFO turned informant, and help her prove that a popular real estate developer is embezzling millions from his company. But what should be a straightforward assignment is deliciously complicated when Miranda is thrown together with FBI Agent Jake Barnes, the man who saved her life, broke her heart, and then disappeared.
Beneath the neatly plotted rows of new homes lurk dark secrets, bitter feuds and a whole lot of greed. Nothing is what it appears, even Miranda’s timid client, who is hiding secrets of her own. Despite her growing distrust of her client, Miranda must protect Kathryn from becoming the target of the FBI’s investigation and protect herself from the real thief—all while protecting her heart from the sexy FBI agent she can’t seem to resist.
Miranda Vaughn
Chasing the Dollar (book #1)
Dropping the Dime (book #2)
Chasing Tinsel (holiday short story)
One Red Cent (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection)
Lucky Penny (book #3)
"An engaging read full of mystery and deception."
~ Fresh Fiction
"High stakes, high energy, and a highly humorous good time!"
~ Gemma Halliday, New York Times bestselling author
Miranda Vaughn was once falsely accused of stealing millions, and now she’s helping others who are facing criminal charges. While being an assistant to her former defense attorney isn’t Miranda’s dream job, she’s eager to prove herself, and her first task is a simple one—protect Kathryn, a shy CFO turned informant, and help her prove that a popular real estate developer is embezzling millions from his company. But what should be a straightforward assignment is deliciously complicated when Miranda is thrown together with FBI Agent Jake Barnes, the man who saved her life, broke her heart, and then disappeared.
Beneath the neatly plotted rows of new homes lurk dark secrets, bitter feuds and a whole lot of greed. Nothing is what it appears, even Miranda’s timid client, who is hiding secrets of her own. Despite her growing distrust of her client, Miranda must protect Kathryn from becoming the target of the FBI’s investigation and protect herself from the real thief—all while protecting her heart from the sexy FBI agent she can’t seem to resist.
Miranda Vaughn
Chasing the Dollar (book #1)
Dropping the Dime (book #2)
Chasing Tinsel (holiday short story)
One Red Cent (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection)
Lucky Penny (book #3)
"An engaging read full of mystery and deception."
~ Fresh Fiction
"High stakes, high energy, and a highly humorous good time!"
~ Gemma Halliday, New York Times bestselling author
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
43 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 21, 2017
Who besides an accountant would think that a financial mystery would be gripping, but Dropping the Dime by Ellie Ashe does that and more. Miranda Vaughn now works for her attorney as financial advisor, since even though she was acquitted of embezzlement, she has discovered that being found "not guilty" does not mean "innocent." This leaves her unemployable in the financial sector where she is highly qualified. The lawyer takes a case on behalf of a whistleblower who needs a lawyer to walk her through the system. In doing this, Miranda finds herself having to work again with Jake, to whom she is deeply attracted but who has not made much effort to get in touch with her since their adventures together in Macau and Beliz.
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
November 21, 2016
4.5★ Audiobook⎮ Cozy mysteries are pretty hit-or-miss for me and I consider the Miranda Vaughn Mysteries series to be a hit! Dropping the Dime is the second Ellie Ashe title I’ve heard in a month. I am just as taken with Ashe’s writing now as I was in Chasing the Dollar.
When beginning Dropping the Dime, I was a little nervous that my overwhelmingly positive opinion of Chasing the Dollar was a fluke, because I am still pretty new to the cozy mystery genre. Luckily, Dropping the Dime did not disappoint. I credit my continued enjoyment to Ellie Ashe’s delightful writing style and Teri Schnaubelt’s equally flattering delivery of the material.
Dropping the Dime did not pick up exactly where Chasing the Dollar left off and it explored a very different type of mystery. However, its core characters remained the same. Between the ending of the previous installment and the beginning of this one, Ashe executed a seamless transition that did not at all feel abrupt or jarring. Despite a few weeks having past between my listening to the two installments, I had no trouble reentering Miranda Vaughn’s world. The sense of continuity between the two installments added to my overall level of coziness.
Although, I have to admit that the plot of Dropping the Dime didn’t quite knock me off my feet as much as Chasing the Dollar, but second installments rarely do. Dropping the Dime was not as action-packed or exotic as its predecessor, but the change in pace was refreshing. Dropping the Dime showed that Ashe is capable of writing a variety of settings and plots, while maintaining the structural integrity with which I’ve become so comfortable. This fact has me extremely eager to continue on with the series.
Narration review: Teri Schnaubelt can officially add me to her list of fans. Her narration brought me nearly as much joy as did Ellie Ashe’s writing. Schnaubelt’s characterization was very well-done, as were her rhythm and timing. I cannot recall hearing any noticeable dubbing or production errors. This was an exceptionally well recorded and produced audiobook. Not only am I looking forward to hearing the rest of the series, but I will also be looking into hearing more Teri Schnaubelt in the future! ♣︎
➜ This audiobook was graciously gifted to me by its author, Ellie Ashe, in exchange for a review containing my honest thoughts and opinions. Thanks, Ellie!
When beginning Dropping the Dime, I was a little nervous that my overwhelmingly positive opinion of Chasing the Dollar was a fluke, because I am still pretty new to the cozy mystery genre. Luckily, Dropping the Dime did not disappoint. I credit my continued enjoyment to Ellie Ashe’s delightful writing style and Teri Schnaubelt’s equally flattering delivery of the material.
Dropping the Dime did not pick up exactly where Chasing the Dollar left off and it explored a very different type of mystery. However, its core characters remained the same. Between the ending of the previous installment and the beginning of this one, Ashe executed a seamless transition that did not at all feel abrupt or jarring. Despite a few weeks having past between my listening to the two installments, I had no trouble reentering Miranda Vaughn’s world. The sense of continuity between the two installments added to my overall level of coziness.
Although, I have to admit that the plot of Dropping the Dime didn’t quite knock me off my feet as much as Chasing the Dollar, but second installments rarely do. Dropping the Dime was not as action-packed or exotic as its predecessor, but the change in pace was refreshing. Dropping the Dime showed that Ashe is capable of writing a variety of settings and plots, while maintaining the structural integrity with which I’ve become so comfortable. This fact has me extremely eager to continue on with the series.
Narration review: Teri Schnaubelt can officially add me to her list of fans. Her narration brought me nearly as much joy as did Ellie Ashe’s writing. Schnaubelt’s characterization was very well-done, as were her rhythm and timing. I cannot recall hearing any noticeable dubbing or production errors. This was an exceptionally well recorded and produced audiobook. Not only am I looking forward to hearing the rest of the series, but I will also be looking into hearing more Teri Schnaubelt in the future! ♣︎
➜ This audiobook was graciously gifted to me by its author, Ellie Ashe, in exchange for a review containing my honest thoughts and opinions. Thanks, Ellie!
May 12, 2015
This is the second book in this series (and there is a novella in between) featuring Miranda, a former financial advisor that was accused of embezzling funds. She was found not guilty but that hasn't really helped get her hired. So she is working for her lawyer since she is a financial genius to help solve the latest case. Kathryn, who is the CFO for a home builder, thinks her employer is stealing from his company. Of course the FBI is called in and so Miranda gets to work with Jake...lots of chemistry/tension between the two of them.
Anyway, the book was good..at times seemed a little slow in the beginning (might have been me) but picked up the pace as the book was coming to a conclusion. I honestly had no idea who the "bad guy" was and it wasn't until the very end when it was almost revealed was I able to figure it out. This person was totally off my radar! Now that is the sign of a good mystery to me!
Of course we couldn't get away from Miranda still having the hots for Jake, but there is the introduction of Quinn, a local rancher who is also interested in Miranda and is easy on the eyes. It will be interesting to see going forward who captures her heart!
Anyway, the book was good..at times seemed a little slow in the beginning (might have been me) but picked up the pace as the book was coming to a conclusion. I honestly had no idea who the "bad guy" was and it wasn't until the very end when it was almost revealed was I able to figure it out. This person was totally off my radar! Now that is the sign of a good mystery to me!
Of course we couldn't get away from Miranda still having the hots for Jake, but there is the introduction of Quinn, a local rancher who is also interested in Miranda and is easy on the eyes. It will be interesting to see going forward who captures her heart!
April 7, 2015
Well paced, good mystery, great chemistry, some real twists, and wonderful writing. Dropping a Dime is at least as good as Ashe’s Chasing the Dollar and I loved that one. Miranda has only seen Jake once in six months but she can’t forget about him. On the other hand, she doesn’t expect him to turn up in the newest case the law firm she works for has accepted. Things have been going well with her job as financial consultant to the lawyer who got her acquitted of federal fraud charges, but if things keep going the way they are on this case, she could end up in prison anyway. And there is a new guy in the picture and he is awesome.
April 11, 2015
Bomb or Drone?
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. Jake and Miranda have seen each other only once in the six months since the previous book. Imagine her surprise when he shows up as the FBI agent in charge of the new case Rob has taken on. Rob is the lawyer who got her acquitted of charges six months ago and she now works for him. Interesting new characters are introduced that I hope get to stick around a while. Lots of hot guys!
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. Jake and Miranda have seen each other only once in the six months since the previous book. Imagine her surprise when he shows up as the FBI agent in charge of the new case Rob has taken on. Rob is the lawyer who got her acquitted of charges six months ago and she now works for him. Interesting new characters are introduced that I hope get to stick around a while. Lots of hot guys!
July 14, 2017
Hey Guys! Today I’m reviewing the audiobook Dropping the Dime by Ellie Ashe and narrated by and narrated by Teri Schnaubelt.
First let’s start with the audio. Teri did a much better job of narrating male voices in this second book. Although that could be because there were less male voices interacting with each other as well, so less confusion. I think she really shines with female voices, and I hope that in the next book she does just as well with her male voices! The tone is steady and even paced. Voices shake and scream when they’re supposed to. I’d give the audio a 4/5.
For the plot this story is intriguing. We find that Miranda now works for the criminal defense lawyer full time and is living with her aunt. Her aunt is dating the man she works for, which makes living with her aunt a little awkward. A new client, Katharine, comes in saying that she wants to go to the feds with information she has from her employers the Leonitus family. There is money going to a fishy company that doesn’t seem to exist.
Then we get the FBI. Jake and his partner show up. Miranda apparently hasn’t seen/heard from him in months…which makes things super awkward. As they try to entrap the head of the company with wiring Katharine she decides to make out with him….like what????? Then she talks Miranda into breaking into the file room to find some evidence. That is thwarted when the brothers of the family walk down there and have a fight. Miranda then is talked into breaking into the office to find evidence. Because without more evidence the FBI can’t do anything. So instead of having trained officers look into it they do nothing, while Katharine tries to get her boss on his criminal activities.
We also have a weird dude enter named Quinn. He was a drug dealer of sorts, but then turned his life around and runs a ranch now. He makes Miranda hot, but she has all sorts of feelings for Jake still. What I found very odd was that Jake took Miranda on some of the investigation work. Like why is she in the surveillance van? Why does she go to question the ex brother in law? She’s not police and this time they aren’t on the run from crazy people or trying to clear her name.
Katharine also seems to be leading Miranda into a trap. Mainly because she acts all innocent, but then they spy her wearing sexy clothes and kissing Alexi Leonitus. And this is after she had made out with his dad! She explains that she is dating Alexi…but if so then why did she make out with his dad? That’s certainly cheating and very disturbing, especially when his dad meets her as his son’s gf sometime down the road.
Miranda also gets a bomb placed under her car and it ends up blowing up Jake’s house. He apparently lives in town. So why hasn’t he called or visited? Even if he has been busy he lives like 10 mins from her, they could totally have seen each other if he wanted to. This seems like a case of He’s Just Not That Into You! And I find the bomb being placed on Miranda’s car stupid as she literally was nowhere close to the actual culprit…
Now at this point I had figured it was either Katharine, because of her apparent shyness that went away easily. She seemed like a spy. The other was the ex bro in law, because he actually understood the position that the youngest brother was placed in. He also has to pay his wife a million dollars a year, when she is an heir to the Leonitus fortune and he just works for a technology firm.
Investigation wise Miranda didn’t really do any. She broke into places twice and got some information that helped her out, but ultimately the culprit was revealed by fluke. Or rather by drone trying to shoot people. I feel that I as a reader did more investigation/crime solving than Miranda lol. Jake was practically non-existent in the story except for when his house got blown up and his saving Miranda at the end. I wanted more of him. Especially since they decide to kiss in the end. It just doesn’t feel right with him only being in like 25% of the book.
Cast of characters wise I thought it was fun. Liked Katharine and Alexi. Quinn was fun, but I still don’t get his deal. I hope we learn more later, otherwise his character introduction would be sad. Miranda is a likable character, as well as her friend. I hope the friend gets together with that office guy next book. The aunt and criminal defense lawyer are cute. Jake is more likable this time around, but that could be due to him not appearing in the majority of the story.
There was more investigation and character development in this story so I’d give it a 3.5/5 leaning towards a 3. It still needs more.
But overall I liked it and I think this series is a fun cozy mystery read. I’d give it a 3.75/5 stars or 7.5/10 on my rating scale.
First let’s start with the audio. Teri did a much better job of narrating male voices in this second book. Although that could be because there were less male voices interacting with each other as well, so less confusion. I think she really shines with female voices, and I hope that in the next book she does just as well with her male voices! The tone is steady and even paced. Voices shake and scream when they’re supposed to. I’d give the audio a 4/5.
For the plot this story is intriguing. We find that Miranda now works for the criminal defense lawyer full time and is living with her aunt. Her aunt is dating the man she works for, which makes living with her aunt a little awkward. A new client, Katharine, comes in saying that she wants to go to the feds with information she has from her employers the Leonitus family. There is money going to a fishy company that doesn’t seem to exist.
Then we get the FBI. Jake and his partner show up. Miranda apparently hasn’t seen/heard from him in months…which makes things super awkward. As they try to entrap the head of the company with wiring Katharine she decides to make out with him….like what????? Then she talks Miranda into breaking into the file room to find some evidence. That is thwarted when the brothers of the family walk down there and have a fight. Miranda then is talked into breaking into the office to find evidence. Because without more evidence the FBI can’t do anything. So instead of having trained officers look into it they do nothing, while Katharine tries to get her boss on his criminal activities.
We also have a weird dude enter named Quinn. He was a drug dealer of sorts, but then turned his life around and runs a ranch now. He makes Miranda hot, but she has all sorts of feelings for Jake still. What I found very odd was that Jake took Miranda on some of the investigation work. Like why is she in the surveillance van? Why does she go to question the ex brother in law? She’s not police and this time they aren’t on the run from crazy people or trying to clear her name.
Katharine also seems to be leading Miranda into a trap. Mainly because she acts all innocent, but then they spy her wearing sexy clothes and kissing Alexi Leonitus. And this is after she had made out with his dad! She explains that she is dating Alexi…but if so then why did she make out with his dad? That’s certainly cheating and very disturbing, especially when his dad meets her as his son’s gf sometime down the road.
Miranda also gets a bomb placed under her car and it ends up blowing up Jake’s house. He apparently lives in town. So why hasn’t he called or visited? Even if he has been busy he lives like 10 mins from her, they could totally have seen each other if he wanted to. This seems like a case of He’s Just Not That Into You! And I find the bomb being placed on Miranda’s car stupid as she literally was nowhere close to the actual culprit…
Now at this point I had figured it was either Katharine, because of her apparent shyness that went away easily. She seemed like a spy. The other was the ex bro in law, because he actually understood the position that the youngest brother was placed in. He also has to pay his wife a million dollars a year, when she is an heir to the Leonitus fortune and he just works for a technology firm.
Investigation wise Miranda didn’t really do any. She broke into places twice and got some information that helped her out, but ultimately the culprit was revealed by fluke. Or rather by drone trying to shoot people. I feel that I as a reader did more investigation/crime solving than Miranda lol. Jake was practically non-existent in the story except for when his house got blown up and his saving Miranda at the end. I wanted more of him. Especially since they decide to kiss in the end. It just doesn’t feel right with him only being in like 25% of the book.
Cast of characters wise I thought it was fun. Liked Katharine and Alexi. Quinn was fun, but I still don’t get his deal. I hope we learn more later, otherwise his character introduction would be sad. Miranda is a likable character, as well as her friend. I hope the friend gets together with that office guy next book. The aunt and criminal defense lawyer are cute. Jake is more likable this time around, but that could be due to him not appearing in the majority of the story.
There was more investigation and character development in this story so I’d give it a 3.5/5 leaning towards a 3. It still needs more.
But overall I liked it and I think this series is a fun cozy mystery read. I’d give it a 3.75/5 stars or 7.5/10 on my rating scale.
August 5, 2019
I am loving this series! It did not turn out as I was suspected and I'm so glad it didnt! I liked being surprised at the twist ending. I also love the nee character Quinn. I usually get sick of the love triangle but was happy with him. I might just be partial to cowboys (Idaho girl here) but a little part of me was hoping she'd go with Quinn and let Jake go! Yet I still was in love with Jake. Oh what a problem for Miranda, stuck between 2 incredible men. However I really really appreciated that she told Quinn she wasnt ready for a relationship rather then leading both men on. I like that characteristic in Miranda. The story was engaging as well. So excited to read the next book in this series.
November 16, 2016
I really love this series and the narrator is great. Heroine was accused of a crime, acquitted at trial, and in the first book actually proved she was innocent but is still tainted. So she works for a lawyer and gets in over her head at times. Fun read and a great series!
May 8, 2017
Audible review: This time, Miranda tries to help Katherine figure out if her employer is stealing money from his own company. Great story. Loved the ending. A must read!
July 28, 2022
Enjoyable
Really enjoyed this book and the first one in the series. There's lots if action and excitement and the rumblings of romance. They are well written and kept my interest.
Really enjoyed this book and the first one in the series. There's lots if action and excitement and the rumblings of romance. They are well written and kept my interest.
May 4, 2017
Note: While this is Book 2 in the series, it works fine as a stand alone.
Miranda Vaughn has continued to work for Bob, who was her defense attorney when she was wrongly accused of fraud in Chasing the Dollar. Now she’s helping out on a new financial fraud case, her job being to work closely with Chief Financial Officer Kathryn. Looks like there’s some irregularities and Kathryn thinks there’s another chunk of numbers that her boss doesn’t want her to see, but her name as CFO is on many of the company’s legal documents; this gives her plenty of reasons to worry. Meanwhile, the FBI have been called in, and that means that Miranda has to work with Agent Jake Barnes. There’s still sparks between the two, but is that all it is?
I think this book was even better than the first. The plot felt tighter and the characters better defined. There was some humor as well as personalities clashing or folks accidentally step on toes. Miranda has gotten her legs back under her after the events of Book 1. She’s gainfully employed doing something close to doing what she did before her trial. Many folks have moved on but she does bump into a few peripheral characters that feel she’s guilty no matter what the courts decided.
And speaking of that, enter a new love interest, Quinn. He has a drug conviction under his belt though there’s some mystery surrounding it. He’s also part of a rich family and has a nice ranch complete with horses. Miranda may be swept off her feet by this man if she’s not careful. After all, he can understand better than most Miranda’s myriad of feelings about law enforcement and the justice system in this country.
Now we still have Jake Barnes, as handsome as ever, and he’s clearly still interested in Miranda. The author does a good job of not getting caught up in some silly love triangle drama. Merely, Miranda has choices in her life and she has to decide what, or who, she wants to pursue. Plus, all three of these characters have more than romance going on in their lives and that makes them interesting.
Now the main mystery was a good one. I did not see all the angles and that made it interesting. There’s also Miranda’s added complication of her little breaking & entering that muddies the waters. On the surface, financial fraud seems like dull investigative work. The author makes it exciting by showing how the criminals can gain from it and the lengths they are willing to go to cover it up.
I received a free copy of this book via The Audiobookworm.
The Narration: Teri Schnaubelt continues to be a great Miranda Vaughn. I like how expressive her voice is for Miranda, because Miranda goes through quite a variety of emotions in this book. She also does a good job with the male voices, making Quinn and Jake both sound interesting and sexy (when needed) yet distinct.
Miranda Vaughn has continued to work for Bob, who was her defense attorney when she was wrongly accused of fraud in Chasing the Dollar. Now she’s helping out on a new financial fraud case, her job being to work closely with Chief Financial Officer Kathryn. Looks like there’s some irregularities and Kathryn thinks there’s another chunk of numbers that her boss doesn’t want her to see, but her name as CFO is on many of the company’s legal documents; this gives her plenty of reasons to worry. Meanwhile, the FBI have been called in, and that means that Miranda has to work with Agent Jake Barnes. There’s still sparks between the two, but is that all it is?
I think this book was even better than the first. The plot felt tighter and the characters better defined. There was some humor as well as personalities clashing or folks accidentally step on toes. Miranda has gotten her legs back under her after the events of Book 1. She’s gainfully employed doing something close to doing what she did before her trial. Many folks have moved on but she does bump into a few peripheral characters that feel she’s guilty no matter what the courts decided.
And speaking of that, enter a new love interest, Quinn. He has a drug conviction under his belt though there’s some mystery surrounding it. He’s also part of a rich family and has a nice ranch complete with horses. Miranda may be swept off her feet by this man if she’s not careful. After all, he can understand better than most Miranda’s myriad of feelings about law enforcement and the justice system in this country.
Now we still have Jake Barnes, as handsome as ever, and he’s clearly still interested in Miranda. The author does a good job of not getting caught up in some silly love triangle drama. Merely, Miranda has choices in her life and she has to decide what, or who, she wants to pursue. Plus, all three of these characters have more than romance going on in their lives and that makes them interesting.
Now the main mystery was a good one. I did not see all the angles and that made it interesting. There’s also Miranda’s added complication of her little breaking & entering that muddies the waters. On the surface, financial fraud seems like dull investigative work. The author makes it exciting by showing how the criminals can gain from it and the lengths they are willing to go to cover it up.
I received a free copy of this book via The Audiobookworm.
The Narration: Teri Schnaubelt continues to be a great Miranda Vaughn. I like how expressive her voice is for Miranda, because Miranda goes through quite a variety of emotions in this book. She also does a good job with the male voices, making Quinn and Jake both sound interesting and sexy (when needed) yet distinct.
May 2, 2017
*Be sure and check out my blog post for this book, featuring a giveaway! Check it out here!*
Perfect continuation of an already wonderful story.
Sequels are, often times, either better than their predecessor, or worse. With this series, it's simply continuing on the same level, allowing each character to grow. We learn more with each chapter, and as old relationships deepen, yet another new mystery surrounds Miranda in danger.
I enjoyed the development between Miranda and a new male character, who I actually preferred to Jack. I also did enjoy the progression with Miranda and Jack, even if it was minor in comparison to their growth in the first novel. Learning more about her friends and family was also nice, and gave a well-rounded look into her life as an independent woman.
I was surprised about what happened with her aunt, and was happy with how it ended. It seemed as though this novel zoomed in on a few key characters, as opposed to the broad strokes given to all the characters in the previous book. I'm curious to see where the focus shifts in the final installment, and hope something is resolved in Miranda's personal life.
Well written and excellently narrated, this is definitely a series I would recommend to others.
*I was given a complimentary audiobook copy of this novel, from the author via Audiobookworm Promotions, to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
PG-13 rating for some mild sexual and sensual scenes, descriptions and encounters & mild language.
Perfect continuation of an already wonderful story.
Sequels are, often times, either better than their predecessor, or worse. With this series, it's simply continuing on the same level, allowing each character to grow. We learn more with each chapter, and as old relationships deepen, yet another new mystery surrounds Miranda in danger.
I enjoyed the development between Miranda and a new male character, who I actually preferred to Jack. I also did enjoy the progression with Miranda and Jack, even if it was minor in comparison to their growth in the first novel. Learning more about her friends and family was also nice, and gave a well-rounded look into her life as an independent woman.
I was surprised about what happened with her aunt, and was happy with how it ended. It seemed as though this novel zoomed in on a few key characters, as opposed to the broad strokes given to all the characters in the previous book. I'm curious to see where the focus shifts in the final installment, and hope something is resolved in Miranda's personal life.
Well written and excellently narrated, this is definitely a series I would recommend to others.
*I was given a complimentary audiobook copy of this novel, from the author via Audiobookworm Promotions, to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
PG-13 rating for some mild sexual and sensual scenes, descriptions and encounters & mild language.
April 4, 2015
I was eagerly awaiting this second Miranda Vaughn book! Just finished it and had to write a review.
As much as I loved Chasing the Dollar, I loved this one even more. The first book was filled with action sequences and danger all around (loved it!) and in this book MIranda is sleuthing in her hometown instead of Macau and other cities abroad. MIranda is working for the lawyer that helped her get acquitted in her high profile fraud trial and still living with her aunt Marie while bouncing back from everything that has happened.
She has not seen Jake Barnes, FBI agent and potential love interest from book 1, in six months.
Enter new client Kathryn, who is worried her boss in a company where she is the CFO is doing something illegal. The Feds have been informed and Kathryn is negotiating immunity for sharing information. One of the agents is Jake Barnes.
While Miranda's boss Rob is on holiday with aunt Marie, Miranda is trying to gather information and helping Kathryn to stay out of trouble. And then there is Quinn, a handsome cowboy and ex-client of Rob.
I enjoyed this book very much. The writing style is pleasant and flows while the plot is interesting and not too complicated. Ellie Ashe has a background in finance and that shows in her books. In Chasing the Dollar I sometimes had a bit of trouble following the plotline, but no such worries here in Dropping the Dime. I would have preferred a little more romance. I like Jake and Miranda together, but it is going really slow. But.... (spoiler warning) things are looking up for my favorite couple.
There was one thing that I thought was a bit stupid. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but searching for stuff without gloves???
In short: great addition to this series. I hope Ms Ashe will be writing fast!
As much as I loved Chasing the Dollar, I loved this one even more. The first book was filled with action sequences and danger all around (loved it!) and in this book MIranda is sleuthing in her hometown instead of Macau and other cities abroad. MIranda is working for the lawyer that helped her get acquitted in her high profile fraud trial and still living with her aunt Marie while bouncing back from everything that has happened.
She has not seen Jake Barnes, FBI agent and potential love interest from book 1, in six months.
Enter new client Kathryn, who is worried her boss in a company where she is the CFO is doing something illegal. The Feds have been informed and Kathryn is negotiating immunity for sharing information. One of the agents is Jake Barnes.
While Miranda's boss Rob is on holiday with aunt Marie, Miranda is trying to gather information and helping Kathryn to stay out of trouble. And then there is Quinn, a handsome cowboy and ex-client of Rob.
I enjoyed this book very much. The writing style is pleasant and flows while the plot is interesting and not too complicated. Ellie Ashe has a background in finance and that shows in her books. In Chasing the Dollar I sometimes had a bit of trouble following the plotline, but no such worries here in Dropping the Dime. I would have preferred a little more romance. I like Jake and Miranda together, but it is going really slow. But.... (spoiler warning) things are looking up for my favorite couple.
There was one thing that I thought was a bit stupid. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but searching for stuff without gloves???
In short: great addition to this series. I hope Ms Ashe will be writing fast!
April 14, 2015
Review:
I enjoyed Chasing The Dollar so when I found out Miranda Vaughn would be back I had to pick up book two and pray I wouldn't be disappointed. Boy I wasn't disappointed
The story starts off 6 months after Chasing the Dollar with Miranda working for the lawyer who helped her get acquitted in the first book. Kathryn is looking for a lawyer who will help her bring down her bosses illegal dealing. The Feds have been brought in because Kathryn wants immunity from being prosecuted with her boss. The only problem is the agent is Jake Barnes the man Miranda hasn't seen or heard from in 6 months. Miranda has decided that she can handle anything Jake throws her way.
Dropping The Dime is a well paced mystery with awesome twist and turns the reader won't see coming. Ellie Ashe writing style is very easy to follow giving the reader enough book with laughs, a cast of characters you will remember after you put the book down and a complete story that will have the readers eagerly excited for the next book in the series. There wasn't the romance level that was in Chasing the dollar which I was happy to see because it gave you a chance to see Miranda grow as a characters as well as giving the reader insight into the other characters in the book.
Ellie Ashe created characters that you could see walking down the street or you might read in your local newspaper making the words pop off the pages.
Its a short book that could be read in an afternoon so if you are collecting books for your next vacation this is a must!
I enjoyed Chasing The Dollar so when I found out Miranda Vaughn would be back I had to pick up book two and pray I wouldn't be disappointed. Boy I wasn't disappointed
The story starts off 6 months after Chasing the Dollar with Miranda working for the lawyer who helped her get acquitted in the first book. Kathryn is looking for a lawyer who will help her bring down her bosses illegal dealing. The Feds have been brought in because Kathryn wants immunity from being prosecuted with her boss. The only problem is the agent is Jake Barnes the man Miranda hasn't seen or heard from in 6 months. Miranda has decided that she can handle anything Jake throws her way.
Dropping The Dime is a well paced mystery with awesome twist and turns the reader won't see coming. Ellie Ashe writing style is very easy to follow giving the reader enough book with laughs, a cast of characters you will remember after you put the book down and a complete story that will have the readers eagerly excited for the next book in the series. There wasn't the romance level that was in Chasing the dollar which I was happy to see because it gave you a chance to see Miranda grow as a characters as well as giving the reader insight into the other characters in the book.
Ellie Ashe created characters that you could see walking down the street or you might read in your local newspaper making the words pop off the pages.
Its a short book that could be read in an afternoon so if you are collecting books for your next vacation this is a must!
May 27, 2015
This was a quick read with lots of action, a little romance, and a bit of humor thrown in for good measure. There was nothing complicated about the plot but I thoroughly enjoyed it. We met Miranding in the previous book, Chasing the Dollar, where she had been arrested for fraud, went on trial, and was acquitted of any wrong doing. In spite of that fact, there are people who still believe she was involved, even though she helped the FBI catch the real culprits and put them behind bars. As such, she has a hard time getting a job so she ends up working for the attorney who got her off. When a young woman named Katherine shows up at their office saying she's positive her boss is up to no good, Rob asks Miranda to look over the paperwork seeing as how she's a whiz with numbers. Miranda agrees that things don't add up. It appears as though Katherine' s boss is skimming money from his own company to add to his personal coffers. The feds are called in and once again Miranda finds herself working with Jake, the hot FBI agent who helped her clear her name. He's also the guy she hasn't heard from since in spite of the mind blowing kiss they'd shared while on the run.
I totally got caught up in this book and breezed through it in a couple of hours. Miranda is so likeable and she's surrounded by a good cast of characters. Their escapades had me laughing more than once. If you want a good mystery/suspense and are looking for something light to read, this one is for you. A definite winner in my book!
I totally got caught up in this book and breezed through it in a couple of hours. Miranda is so likeable and she's surrounded by a good cast of characters. Their escapades had me laughing more than once. If you want a good mystery/suspense and are looking for something light to read, this one is for you. A definite winner in my book!
April 23, 2015
MIRANDA AND JAKE ONCE AGAIN ON OPPOSITE SIDES OF THE CASE
i was looking forward to reading more about miranda and jake and this book did not disappoint - this time around it has been 6 months since she and jake have gotten together and so she is blindsided when she starts a new case as a financial expert with her boss robert fogg to find out that jake will be one of the agents that will be interrogating Kathryn, the law firms new client - they are trying to get her immunity as they all try to figure out if anything illegal is going on at the leonidis development company and who was involved. so once again miranda and jake are on opposite sides of a case- and to aid to the mix is a new hunky guy named quinn - who seems totally smitten by our gal- once again miranda seems to attract danger and trouble wherever she goes- and there are narrow escapes and near misses- but this time around she has 2 guys helping her out as well as her pals sarah and burton- 4 1/2 stars because i knew who done it shortly after the character was introduced- and definetly knew when all the agents went to jakes home-- so this was a fast paced read with greed- betrayal - hot guys- romance - perhaps a murder- and a very strange family --- as much as i like jake - i do hope quinn returns - and now that aunt marie has a guy how about letting sarah and burton hook up- looking forward to the next installment of miranda's life--
i was looking forward to reading more about miranda and jake and this book did not disappoint - this time around it has been 6 months since she and jake have gotten together and so she is blindsided when she starts a new case as a financial expert with her boss robert fogg to find out that jake will be one of the agents that will be interrogating Kathryn, the law firms new client - they are trying to get her immunity as they all try to figure out if anything illegal is going on at the leonidis development company and who was involved. so once again miranda and jake are on opposite sides of a case- and to aid to the mix is a new hunky guy named quinn - who seems totally smitten by our gal- once again miranda seems to attract danger and trouble wherever she goes- and there are narrow escapes and near misses- but this time around she has 2 guys helping her out as well as her pals sarah and burton- 4 1/2 stars because i knew who done it shortly after the character was introduced- and definetly knew when all the agents went to jakes home-- so this was a fast paced read with greed- betrayal - hot guys- romance - perhaps a murder- and a very strange family --- as much as i like jake - i do hope quinn returns - and now that aunt marie has a guy how about letting sarah and burton hook up- looking forward to the next installment of miranda's life--
Read
February 3, 2016Miranda Vaughn was once falsely accused of stealing millions, and now she’s helping others who are facing criminal charges. While being an assistant to her former defense attorney isn’t Miranda’s dream job, she’s eager to prove herself, and her first task is a simple one—protect Kathryn, a shy CFO turned informant, and help her prove that a popular real estate developer is embezzling millions from his company. But what should be a straightforward assignment is deliciously complicated when Miranda is thrown together with FBI Agent Jake Barnes, the man who saved her life, broke her heart, and then disappeared.
Beneath the neatly plotted rows of new homes lurk dark secrets, bitter feuds and a whole lot of greed. Nothing is what it appears, even Miranda’s timid client, who is hiding secrets of her own. Despite her growing distrust of her client, Miranda must protect Kathryn from becoming the target of the FBI’s investigation and protect herself from the real thief—all while protecting her heart from the sexy FBI agent she can’t seem to resist.
The timid client is in love with one of the brothers and he with her. The bad guy is the accountant, I think. Can't remember.
Beneath the neatly plotted rows of new homes lurk dark secrets, bitter feuds and a whole lot of greed. Nothing is what it appears, even Miranda’s timid client, who is hiding secrets of her own. Despite her growing distrust of her client, Miranda must protect Kathryn from becoming the target of the FBI’s investigation and protect herself from the real thief—all while protecting her heart from the sexy FBI agent she can’t seem to resist.
The timid client is in love with one of the brothers and he with her. The bad guy is the accountant, I think. Can't remember.
September 2, 2016
Audiobook review: 3 STARS (narrator Teri Schnaubelt - 5 STARS)
I haven't listened to the first book, so the first part was very confusing when I had to figure what Mirandas role in all this was. Along with her former relationship with Jake, that was confusing as well. I'll recommend you to start with the first book, as I don't quite see this as a standalone. Things will be explained later on, but I still felt I had missed a lot.
Compared to other reviews I didn't share the same enthusiasm while listening. I really couldn't see Miranda in all this police/FBI world. I saw her as an ordinary girl, but she was working as an undercover police officer in many dangerous situations. I can better relate if this was a paranormal story.
Many reviewers also said it was fun. As I didn't laugh at all, I just found Miranda to be immature and teenish.
The narration was top-notch though. Teri Schnaubelt was totally awesome and delivered a fast-paced, action packed story. She was the reason I kept listening. Her male voices are a bit funny, though, but she was exellent.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review*
I haven't listened to the first book, so the first part was very confusing when I had to figure what Mirandas role in all this was. Along with her former relationship with Jake, that was confusing as well. I'll recommend you to start with the first book, as I don't quite see this as a standalone. Things will be explained later on, but I still felt I had missed a lot.
Compared to other reviews I didn't share the same enthusiasm while listening. I really couldn't see Miranda in all this police/FBI world. I saw her as an ordinary girl, but she was working as an undercover police officer in many dangerous situations. I can better relate if this was a paranormal story.
Many reviewers also said it was fun. As I didn't laugh at all, I just found Miranda to be immature and teenish.
The narration was top-notch though. Teri Schnaubelt was totally awesome and delivered a fast-paced, action packed story. She was the reason I kept listening. Her male voices are a bit funny, though, but she was exellent.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review*
August 15, 2016
Fans of Stephanie Plum will love Miranda Vaughn! After being falsely accused of tax fraud Miranda goes to work for her attorney helping him sort through financial information of clients. When the CFO for the Lionitis Corporation goes to the feds to report her boss for embezzling to avoid paying taxes on his millions Miranda is asked to decipher the companies books and help find out if in fact the head of the family is embezzling or if the payments to a mystery company are legitimate. There are lots of twists and turns as she manages to not get into trouble for skirting the law in search for information. All the while she is battling a strange attraction to the sexy federal agent who arrested her and is also leading the investigation into the Liontis Corp. She is also attracted the sexy cowboy her boss helped negotiate a plea deal for drug smuggling. There is something about him that makes her want to trust him, even knowing he spent time in a federal prison.
I received this book for free from AudioBlast in exchange for my honest review.
I received this book for free from AudioBlast in exchange for my honest review.
October 7, 2015
Despite being acquitted of fraud charges, Miranda, a former financial adviser, found her prospects for a job in her field were non-existent. Luckily Rob, her former attorney, offered her a job in his office. With her financial expertise, she is a gold mine of information. To her dismay, she finds that a hot FBI agent for whom she still has feelings for is looking into a case that Rob has her currently working on. Miranda is determined not to let the FBI falsely accuse their client, a whistle-blower, of wrong doing in the same way she had been. Once again, she finds herself on the opposite side of the FBI fence and a new romantic interest is on hand to pull her heart in another direction.
Dropping the Dime is the second book in the series and is a good follow-up to the first book. Many of the same characters return. Interesting plot, likable characters, and action mixed with a little romance make for a good read.
Dropping the Dime is the second book in the series and is a good follow-up to the first book. Many of the same characters return. Interesting plot, likable characters, and action mixed with a little romance make for a good read.
July 29, 2016
Another excellent mystery headlining Miranda Vaughn!
She works for the lawyer who saved her from a wrongful fraud charge and who now is personally involved with her aunt. A new case comes in where her expertise is needed. She meets some real high fliers, does a spot or two of questionable entry, faces the same FBI agent, has her car involved in an explosion, and gets shot at. But there's lots more, and enough plot twists to make your head spin! Reading the first book is not a necessity, but another totally enjoyable work.
I requested and received a free audio copy of this one because I had really enjoyed Chasing the Dollar last year.
Teri Schnaubelt performed both of them, and was awesome!
She works for the lawyer who saved her from a wrongful fraud charge and who now is personally involved with her aunt. A new case comes in where her expertise is needed. She meets some real high fliers, does a spot or two of questionable entry, faces the same FBI agent, has her car involved in an explosion, and gets shot at. But there's lots more, and enough plot twists to make your head spin! Reading the first book is not a necessity, but another totally enjoyable work.
I requested and received a free audio copy of this one because I had really enjoyed Chasing the Dollar last year.
Teri Schnaubelt performed both of them, and was awesome!
July 24, 2016
I couldn’t wait for the next addition to this series and the author didn’t disappoint. Loved this new story! The characters are well written and fun. The story flows well and it is a light easy fast read. Great for a plan trip (much more interesting than those movies they show on the plane). My husband is an attorney and he has actually had clients that were in this same situation and one even had to wear a wire to work for months!
April 7, 2015
While I loved the first book in the series, Chasing the Dollar, this installment was even better. Well written story that flows along quickly and keeps the reader guessing. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series to see the development of Miranda and Jake's relationship.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my
honest review.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my
honest review.
April 14, 2015
Drone
Pretty good read. Once I began didn't stop until I finished. Why does every heroine have to be so very clumsy? It would be a surprise to meet one not only bright but able to place one foot in front of the other. The characters were interesting and all appeared to have unique back stories. Of course, after reading the tale had a great desire for a piece of pastry.
Pretty good read. Once I began didn't stop until I finished. Why does every heroine have to be so very clumsy? It would be a surprise to meet one not only bright but able to place one foot in front of the other. The characters were interesting and all appeared to have unique back stories. Of course, after reading the tale had a great desire for a piece of pastry.
April 15, 2015
More trouble for Miranda and now she is closer to home.
Is the Danger level lower because she is working for her lawyer? Is the hot FBI guy out of her life? Can she help others that are being accused of a crime? Can she find love with the new guy? Can her new friends keep her out of trouble? All great questions that you can answer after you read this fun cosy mystery.
Is the Danger level lower because she is working for her lawyer? Is the hot FBI guy out of her life? Can she help others that are being accused of a crime? Can she find love with the new guy? Can her new friends keep her out of trouble? All great questions that you can answer after you read this fun cosy mystery.
May 23, 2015
Dropping The Dime is a fun romantic cozy mystery. I won my copy in a contest, but would have read it anyway..it was on my 'Of interest' list. I enjoyed the interaction between the sisters and the feel of moving to a new community was well represented. The changing suspects flowed smoothly and the budding romance was well played.
April 7, 2015
This is another exciting adventure! The plot is well paced and will keep your interest until the final sentence. The characters are likable and well defined, it is nice to catch up with them. A very enjoyable read!
April 7, 2015
I love this series and this book does not disappoint. This picks up with Miranda working for her former attorney, Rob. She is an investigator/assistant and has a knack for finding trouble. This is an engaging and fun book and is a must read for fans of smart chick lit.
August 6, 2016
I was gifted this audio book with the understanding I would give an honest review. I thought the story was good and the narrator did a wonderful job. My problem with the book was the over the top hormonal driven female characters. In my option it took away from the story.
June 2, 2017
A little slow
I just found myself getting antsy for the story to progress. I find myself reluctant to give only 2 stars because the first book of this series "Chasing the Dollar" was fun ,quick witted and had a fresh new plot.
I just found myself getting antsy for the story to progress. I find myself reluctant to give only 2 stars because the first book of this series "Chasing the Dollar" was fun ,quick witted and had a fresh new plot.
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