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The Detective
She's captured his heart…and the attention of a murderer
Injured homicide detective Brodey Hayward needs a distraction, and he finds it as a consultant on a cold case murder. When Brodey's investigation delays plans to remodel the former crime scene, he uncovers another kind of distraction: spirited Lexi Vanderbilt. Despite her distrust of men, Brodey charms the alluring interior designer into helping him examine the case facts.
Working closely with the ultrasexy detective helps Lexi lower her guard, igniting a passion that even Chicago's winter can't cool. As they close in on the killer, Lexi becomes his new target. To save her, Brodey must either betray her trust—or risk losing Lexi forever.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2015
15 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Giordano
107 books867 followersAuthor also writes as Anne Dano
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty romantic suspense, mystery and women’s fiction novels. She is a certified life coach with a passion for helping people reach their goals. Adrienne is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book. For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook (AdrienneGiordanoAuthor), Instagram and Goodreads.
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty romantic suspense, mystery and women’s fiction novels. She is a certified life coach with a passion for helping people reach their goals. Adrienne is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book. For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook (AdrienneGiordanoAuthor), Instagram and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 10, 2019
Candace filled two mugs and set one down next to the cream and sugar so Lexi could destroy a perfect cup of black coffee. Her friends knew her so well. pg. 55
This book is a romantic suspense novel. It was did a decent job on the suspense, but a crappy job on the romance. I actually think this is one of the weaker books in Giordano's series.
Brodey is a homicide detective on disability with a busted elbow. He's bored and his sister (Jenna, the private investigator at Hennings & Solomon) asks him to consult on a cold case.
Lexi is an interior designer who is redesigning the house where a woman's husband was murdered.
HERO AND HEROINE. ARE THEY GOOD PEOPLE? DID I LIKE THEM? DO I WANT THEM TO END UP TOGETHER?
Lexi was pretty normal. She works hard and wants a better life. She had a sense of humor. The only bad things I can say about her is that she's a tiny bit dumb - not really her fault, many people in romantic suspense end up being dumb to help the author move the suspense plot along - and she's very hung up on her ex-fiancé cheating on her with his intern. She keeps obsessing over it. She also thinks all men are lying, cheating 'pigs' now. Which seems... excessive. But overall she was a likable character, with a few flaws.
Brodey, on the other hand. >.< First, I thought I could deal with him. Sure, he was overprotective and a bit controlling. Oftentimes when male police officers are the love interest, the author makes them overprotective and controlling because 'they've just seen so much' and 'they want to keep the heroine "safe"' and 'it's for her own good.' They also always describe (MALE, ONLY MALE) police officers as "alpha" and talk about how manly they are etc. etc. It's strange. I find all this strange.
For one thing, there are no 'alphas.' Humans are not wolves. Are authors trying to tell me that every single man who is a police officer is an 'alpha?' So, at a meeting of male police officers, there could be a room full of thirty alphas. That means they are not alpha. Are you alpha if there are twenty-nine other men in the room with you who are also alpha? The whole thing is SO STUPID. Write someone as very stereotypically masculine if you want to, but don't try to use this alpha/beta/omega bullshit on me unless we are actually in a paranormal romance about werewolves. OK? It's dumb.
Also, alpha implies dominating other males. It doesn't mean dominating and controlling your woman. Many, many authors think 'alpha' means 'dominating, controlling asshole whogrinds his woman under his heel lovingly guides her life' but this is false. If humans were into this kind of sicko hierarchy dominance display culture, men would try to establish dominance over other men. Think about what that would look like. Horrifying, right?!!? Completely horrifying. I've read this done before. Some authors actually seem to grasp this concept, and try to execute it. It usually doesn't go over so well because a man dominating other men and enforcing his will on them seems barbaric and creepy, especially in a romance with normal non-magical protagonists.
Anyway. Ahem.
So, first I just thought Brodey was some man who thought he was badass, macho, had some hangups about presenting as 'totally masculine' or whatever. It was annoying, but not intolerable. I wouldn't date him, but I didn't think he was an asshole. Sure, he was controlling and overprotective. Bossy. Suffered from delusions such as "I'm not interested in having casual, meaningless sex because I have a bum elbow. I must be LESS THAN A MAN." "I only like art that looks like PICTURES. Modern art is crap! That's because I'M A REAL MAN!"
It's not only him that suffers from this. There's a scene in the book where Brodey and Lexi talk about her cheating ex. Brodey offers the sensible point of view that a man should not cheat on a woman he's committed to and promised sexual loyalty to. He suggests that a man not get engaged if he still wants to play the field.
"Guys are stupid sometimes. What can I say?"
Lexi laughed. "You know, Brodey Hayward, you might be part woman underneath all this machismo."
His face distorted, his lips peeling back into a look that indicated she might be next in line for the electric chair. "What does that mean?"
"You're just... reasonable. You get it. A lot of men don't." pg. 100
So, it's obvious Lexi buys into Brodey's fake, stupid, macho ideas of masculinity. The idea that a man is PART WOMAN if he condemns cheating is just SO FUCKED UP on so many levels. It's like she thinks men aren't human beings. She thinks men don't have compassion, loyalty or common decency. She has a really, really low opinion of men - which I didn't enjoy or appreciate. I never like the 'all men are pigs' narrative that a lot of people seem to buy into.
It was obvious Brodey was suffering from what some people might call 'toxic masculinity,' and I wasn't a fan, but I wasn't seething in rage.
Until page 156 where Brodey throws something personal that Lexi confided in him about in her face. Not only did he do that, but he did it IN PUBLIC. Wow. After that, I labeled him an asshole and wanted nothing more to do with him. Lexi is (rightfully) angry with him. He apologizes. They 'move on.' My problem is, I don't trust a guy who would do this. I don't care if he apologizes.
Then, to make things worse and cement my idea of him being an asshole, on page 160
He spread the statements across the bare surface of the table and snap, snap, snapped his fingers in front of her face. "I'm losing you again."
I was gobsmacked. Did he just SNAP HIS FINGERS IN HER FACE?!?!? I can't... She doesn't even have a reaction. She acts like this is totally normal and fine. It's not. It's unbelievably rude, and definitely not something you'd do to someone you allegedly love and respect. I was incredulous that the author would put this in there. Absolutely incredulous.
Lastly, he doesn't let her know about a key piece of information. It hurts her - both emotionally AND it puts her in fatal danger. Why did he do this? Honestly, I think he just either forgot or didn't care or didn't think she needed to know. Which is stupid. She's being threatened. So, she's very upset with him about this, obviously. And he tries to feed her some bullshit line like, "I'm a cop. You're a civilian. I can't tell you about my cases." Which is all well and good, and maybe I'd even have a chance at believing it if he hadn't TAKEN HER ON INVESTIGATIONS WITH HIM. Literally took her along (an interior designer! Who knows little about the case!) while he interviewed people multiple times. And knew, of course, that she was being targeted and threatened by someone as a result of him taking her everywhere on investigations with him.
She calls him on this bullshit and lets him know it's bullshit. He eventually admits he was wrong and apologizes, but AGAIN - could you trust this man? I wouldn't be able to. I wasn't after even the first transgression. But this is THREE STRIKES. He's an asshole and he has a short temper. He went from being 'not my type, but not an asshole' to 'I hate him. She should never see him again.'
Of course, rooting for the hero and heroine to never see each other again means this was a bad romance novel. You should want the main couple to end up together, that's key. That's the whole idea.
PENIS
Another awkward thing about this book was Giordano's insistence on reminding us frequently that Brodey had a penis and liked fucking women. It was getting to the point of being hilarious. He would talk about his penis and his fondness for sex (with women!) at the most random and innocuous times.
"I'm all for efficiency."
That made two of them. And when efficiency looked like Alexis Vanderbilt, preferably a naked Alexis Vanderbilt because yeah, he was wondering what that looked like, he'd welcome it any day, any time without a doubt. Professionalism aside, he was still a guy who liked action. Plenty of it. pg. 27
"I'm a man! I like to have sex! Using my penis!"
Something being the male side of him that hadn't seen any action from a female in a couple of months. Sure there were women he could call, but with the damned arm in a sling, everything - sex included - was way too much work. And it scared the hell out of him because how many men didn't want sex? None that he knew. pg. 46
There's women he can call, okay? Women who are just WAITING for him to say he wants to have casual, meaningless sex with him. I just want you to know that. You know, in case you thought he was UGLY or A VIRGIN or something. So many women. Waiting by the phone. Willing to service him at any time. Got it??!
There's also some kind of gross, weird stuff.
"Smudge?"
"Yep."
"I do that all the time. You'd think I'd learn by now. Thanks for telling me. I'd have been walking around like that."
"No problem," he said. "If touching a beautiful woman's face is the worst thing I do today, I'd say I hit the jackpot."
For a good twenty seconds, she stood in silence, clearly deciding whether to take the bait. Come on, Lexi, let's play. But nope. pg. 49.
If a man wiped a smudge of my cheek with his thumb and then said, "If touching a beautiful woman's face is the worst thing I do today, I'd say I hit the jackpot" I would think he was a sleazoid. It's a sleazoid thing to say.
And "Come on, Lexi. Let's play." THAT'S his inner thoughts? Ugh. Let's play?! >.<
Sometimes we can see him mentally struggling to practice compassion. Good? Sure, it's good writing. Sometimes people who aren't naturally sensitive (or in women's case, trained by society to be attuned to other's needs) need to think things through in order to understand the other person's perspective. But does it make me like him? No. Here's a scene where they kiss, and he wants to have sex, but she has to go meet a client. His first instinct is to insist on sex and refuse to let her go.
"Can we pick this up later?"
No. Forget the appointment. Not fair. Not for one second. But then he imagined the roles being reversed, imagined he'd caught a case. Her job might not include getting called to a crime scene, but she had responsibilities. To her clients and to herself.
Which blew things for him. pg. 73
OTHER RANDOM STUFF
- Brodey policing his sister's outfits. Gross.
- Giordano spells squawking "sqwauking." Gotta be a typo.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
She says, "Bring it on, fella." I guess I should be grateful she's not calling him 'big boy.'
They use condoms.
Again with basically no foreplay of any kind. I just don't understand. Also baffling is the page-and-a-half scene where he gets embarrassed and humiliated telling her she has to be on top due to his bad elbow. I was like o.O I didn't really understand why this was such a big deal. He seemed ashamed. The sex didn't excite me or impress me at all.
THE GOOD
The positive thing I can say about this book is that it actually has a decent suspense plot with a kind of surprise ending. Since it's a romantic suspense and not a straight thriller, I feel like it can't measure up to thrillers that are straight thrillers... but it wasn't a slouch. Some of these romantic suspense books are SO STUPID. This wasn't like that. It even had kind of a surprising, not-roses-and-sunshine wrap-up. Kudos to Giordano on being a bit daring in this.
TL;DR I wanted to like everyone in this, and tried to give everyone a fair chance. But Brodey pushed me too far, and by the time the book ended I was convinced he was an asshole. I did not want Lexi to end up with him - I thought she could do better. I thought she was settling. I didn't see what was so great about this hero.
The suspense plot wasn't bad, though. I have to say Giordano's suspense plots usually are a notch above what I've come to expect from romance novelists. Oftentimes they are unbearably stupid, so points to Giordano for actually being able to craft a coherent and not-totally-dumb mystery plot. I mean, she's no Agatha Christie, she's not even Harlan Coben... but it wasn't dumb. Unless you regularly read romantic suspense I don't think you can truly understand how low my bar is for this.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES
Contemporary Romance
Romantic Suspense
Non-Virgin Heroine
Police Romance
He's a Homicide Detective for Chicago PD; She's an Interior Designer
SERIES
1.) The Prosecutor
2.) The Defender
3.) The Marshal
4.) The Detective
5.) The Rebel
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
This book is a romantic suspense novel. It was did a decent job on the suspense, but a crappy job on the romance. I actually think this is one of the weaker books in Giordano's series.
Brodey is a homicide detective on disability with a busted elbow. He's bored and his sister (Jenna, the private investigator at Hennings & Solomon) asks him to consult on a cold case.
Lexi is an interior designer who is redesigning the house where a woman's husband was murdered.
HERO AND HEROINE. ARE THEY GOOD PEOPLE? DID I LIKE THEM? DO I WANT THEM TO END UP TOGETHER?
Lexi was pretty normal. She works hard and wants a better life. She had a sense of humor. The only bad things I can say about her is that she's a tiny bit dumb - not really her fault, many people in romantic suspense end up being dumb to help the author move the suspense plot along - and she's very hung up on her ex-fiancé cheating on her with his intern. She keeps obsessing over it. She also thinks all men are lying, cheating 'pigs' now. Which seems... excessive. But overall she was a likable character, with a few flaws.
Brodey, on the other hand. >.< First, I thought I could deal with him. Sure, he was overprotective and a bit controlling. Oftentimes when male police officers are the love interest, the author makes them overprotective and controlling because 'they've just seen so much' and 'they want to keep the heroine "safe"' and 'it's for her own good.' They also always describe (MALE, ONLY MALE) police officers as "alpha" and talk about how manly they are etc. etc. It's strange. I find all this strange.
For one thing, there are no 'alphas.' Humans are not wolves. Are authors trying to tell me that every single man who is a police officer is an 'alpha?' So, at a meeting of male police officers, there could be a room full of thirty alphas. That means they are not alpha. Are you alpha if there are twenty-nine other men in the room with you who are also alpha? The whole thing is SO STUPID. Write someone as very stereotypically masculine if you want to, but don't try to use this alpha/beta/omega bullshit on me unless we are actually in a paranormal romance about werewolves. OK? It's dumb.
Also, alpha implies dominating other males. It doesn't mean dominating and controlling your woman. Many, many authors think 'alpha' means 'dominating, controlling asshole who
Anyway. Ahem.
So, first I just thought Brodey was some man who thought he was badass, macho, had some hangups about presenting as 'totally masculine' or whatever. It was annoying, but not intolerable. I wouldn't date him, but I didn't think he was an asshole. Sure, he was controlling and overprotective. Bossy. Suffered from delusions such as "I'm not interested in having casual, meaningless sex because I have a bum elbow. I must be LESS THAN A MAN." "I only like art that looks like PICTURES. Modern art is crap! That's because I'M A REAL MAN!"
It's not only him that suffers from this. There's a scene in the book where Brodey and Lexi talk about her cheating ex. Brodey offers the sensible point of view that a man should not cheat on a woman he's committed to and promised sexual loyalty to. He suggests that a man not get engaged if he still wants to play the field.
"Guys are stupid sometimes. What can I say?"
Lexi laughed. "You know, Brodey Hayward, you might be part woman underneath all this machismo."
His face distorted, his lips peeling back into a look that indicated she might be next in line for the electric chair. "What does that mean?"
"You're just... reasonable. You get it. A lot of men don't." pg. 100
So, it's obvious Lexi buys into Brodey's fake, stupid, macho ideas of masculinity. The idea that a man is PART WOMAN if he condemns cheating is just SO FUCKED UP on so many levels. It's like she thinks men aren't human beings. She thinks men don't have compassion, loyalty or common decency. She has a really, really low opinion of men - which I didn't enjoy or appreciate. I never like the 'all men are pigs' narrative that a lot of people seem to buy into.
It was obvious Brodey was suffering from what some people might call 'toxic masculinity,' and I wasn't a fan, but I wasn't seething in rage.
Until page 156 where Brodey throws something personal that Lexi confided in him about in her face. Not only did he do that, but he did it IN PUBLIC. Wow. After that, I labeled him an asshole and wanted nothing more to do with him. Lexi is (rightfully) angry with him. He apologizes. They 'move on.' My problem is, I don't trust a guy who would do this. I don't care if he apologizes.
Then, to make things worse and cement my idea of him being an asshole, on page 160
He spread the statements across the bare surface of the table and snap, snap, snapped his fingers in front of her face. "I'm losing you again."
I was gobsmacked. Did he just SNAP HIS FINGERS IN HER FACE?!?!? I can't... She doesn't even have a reaction. She acts like this is totally normal and fine. It's not. It's unbelievably rude, and definitely not something you'd do to someone you allegedly love and respect. I was incredulous that the author would put this in there. Absolutely incredulous.
Lastly, he doesn't let her know about a key piece of information. It hurts her - both emotionally AND it puts her in fatal danger. Why did he do this? Honestly, I think he just either forgot or didn't care or didn't think she needed to know. Which is stupid. She's being threatened. So, she's very upset with him about this, obviously. And he tries to feed her some bullshit line like, "I'm a cop. You're a civilian. I can't tell you about my cases." Which is all well and good, and maybe I'd even have a chance at believing it if he hadn't TAKEN HER ON INVESTIGATIONS WITH HIM. Literally took her along (an interior designer! Who knows little about the case!) while he interviewed people multiple times. And knew, of course, that she was being targeted and threatened by someone as a result of him taking her everywhere on investigations with him.
She calls him on this bullshit and lets him know it's bullshit. He eventually admits he was wrong and apologizes, but AGAIN - could you trust this man? I wouldn't be able to. I wasn't after even the first transgression. But this is THREE STRIKES. He's an asshole and he has a short temper. He went from being 'not my type, but not an asshole' to 'I hate him. She should never see him again.'
Of course, rooting for the hero and heroine to never see each other again means this was a bad romance novel. You should want the main couple to end up together, that's key. That's the whole idea.
PENIS
Another awkward thing about this book was Giordano's insistence on reminding us frequently that Brodey had a penis and liked fucking women. It was getting to the point of being hilarious. He would talk about his penis and his fondness for sex (with women!) at the most random and innocuous times.
"I'm all for efficiency."
That made two of them. And when efficiency looked like Alexis Vanderbilt, preferably a naked Alexis Vanderbilt because yeah, he was wondering what that looked like, he'd welcome it any day, any time without a doubt. Professionalism aside, he was still a guy who liked action. Plenty of it. pg. 27
"I'm a man! I like to have sex! Using my penis!"
Something being the male side of him that hadn't seen any action from a female in a couple of months. Sure there were women he could call, but with the damned arm in a sling, everything - sex included - was way too much work. And it scared the hell out of him because how many men didn't want sex? None that he knew. pg. 46
There's women he can call, okay? Women who are just WAITING for him to say he wants to have casual, meaningless sex with him. I just want you to know that. You know, in case you thought he was UGLY or A VIRGIN or something. So many women. Waiting by the phone. Willing to service him at any time. Got it??!
There's also some kind of gross, weird stuff.
"Smudge?"
"Yep."
"I do that all the time. You'd think I'd learn by now. Thanks for telling me. I'd have been walking around like that."
"No problem," he said. "If touching a beautiful woman's face is the worst thing I do today, I'd say I hit the jackpot."
For a good twenty seconds, she stood in silence, clearly deciding whether to take the bait. Come on, Lexi, let's play. But nope. pg. 49.
If a man wiped a smudge of my cheek with his thumb and then said, "If touching a beautiful woman's face is the worst thing I do today, I'd say I hit the jackpot" I would think he was a sleazoid. It's a sleazoid thing to say.
And "Come on, Lexi. Let's play." THAT'S his inner thoughts? Ugh. Let's play?! >.<
Sometimes we can see him mentally struggling to practice compassion. Good? Sure, it's good writing. Sometimes people who aren't naturally sensitive (or in women's case, trained by society to be attuned to other's needs) need to think things through in order to understand the other person's perspective. But does it make me like him? No. Here's a scene where they kiss, and he wants to have sex, but she has to go meet a client. His first instinct is to insist on sex and refuse to let her go.
"Can we pick this up later?"
No. Forget the appointment. Not fair. Not for one second. But then he imagined the roles being reversed, imagined he'd caught a case. Her job might not include getting called to a crime scene, but she had responsibilities. To her clients and to herself.
Which blew things for him. pg. 73
OTHER RANDOM STUFF
- Brodey policing his sister's outfits. Gross.
- Giordano spells squawking "sqwauking." Gotta be a typo.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
She says, "Bring it on, fella." I guess I should be grateful she's not calling him 'big boy.'
They use condoms.
Again with basically no foreplay of any kind. I just don't understand. Also baffling is the page-and-a-half scene where he gets embarrassed and humiliated telling her she has to be on top due to his bad elbow. I was like o.O I didn't really understand why this was such a big deal. He seemed ashamed. The sex didn't excite me or impress me at all.
THE GOOD
The positive thing I can say about this book is that it actually has a decent suspense plot with a kind of surprise ending. Since it's a romantic suspense and not a straight thriller, I feel like it can't measure up to thrillers that are straight thrillers... but it wasn't a slouch. Some of these romantic suspense books are SO STUPID. This wasn't like that. It even had kind of a surprising, not-roses-and-sunshine wrap-up. Kudos to Giordano on being a bit daring in this.
TL;DR I wanted to like everyone in this, and tried to give everyone a fair chance. But Brodey pushed me too far, and by the time the book ended I was convinced he was an asshole. I did not want Lexi to end up with him - I thought she could do better. I thought she was settling. I didn't see what was so great about this hero.
The suspense plot wasn't bad, though. I have to say Giordano's suspense plots usually are a notch above what I've come to expect from romance novelists. Oftentimes they are unbearably stupid, so points to Giordano for actually being able to craft a coherent and not-totally-dumb mystery plot. I mean, she's no Agatha Christie, she's not even Harlan Coben... but it wasn't dumb. Unless you regularly read romantic suspense I don't think you can truly understand how low my bar is for this.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES
Contemporary Romance
Romantic Suspense
Non-Virgin Heroine
Police Romance
He's a Homicide Detective for Chicago PD; She's an Interior Designer
SERIES
1.) The Prosecutor
2.) The Defender
3.) The Marshal
4.) The Detective
5.) The Rebel
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
June 30, 2015
Didn't like this book. The heroine was so irritating. After every few pages the heroine talks about getting an assistant. I understood it the first time , its not like I am going to get a short term memory loss and forget it anytime soon. Even in climax when she was getting attacked she was thinking about this only.
September 21, 2015
Reviewed by Marissa
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I always pick up Harlequin books with a cringe. I’m afraid I’ll get a sappy romance with characters that are just too perfect and utter cheesy lines to each other. And somehow I am always pleasantly surprised. Okay, the characters might be a little more perfect than I like, but the writing is always good and the characters have depth that a lot of the ‘cheaper’ romances don’t have.
Take Lexi, for example. Physically she’s perfect but she’s also driven to build her design business and in that vein she is headstrong and demanding. In her head, she’s a little snide and snarky but she doesn’t let it out too often so I liked being privy to those thoughts. I also liked that she had fear. When someone breaks into her house, she doesn’t get fighting mad like most heroine’s might – she just plain freaks out.
Brodey I was a little divided on. He was a man’s man kind of man. Strong and handsome, he has a loving family that all support each other. It seemed his only imperfection was a temporarily injured arm. That and the fact that he’s a bit over-protective, which I found amusing (although I’m not sure I’d find it so fun in real life).
On top of the characters, there was just enough mystery to keep my senses involved and interested. The Detective is another Harlequin book that (happily) proved me wrong once again.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I always pick up Harlequin books with a cringe. I’m afraid I’ll get a sappy romance with characters that are just too perfect and utter cheesy lines to each other. And somehow I am always pleasantly surprised. Okay, the characters might be a little more perfect than I like, but the writing is always good and the characters have depth that a lot of the ‘cheaper’ romances don’t have.
Take Lexi, for example. Physically she’s perfect but she’s also driven to build her design business and in that vein she is headstrong and demanding. In her head, she’s a little snide and snarky but she doesn’t let it out too often so I liked being privy to those thoughts. I also liked that she had fear. When someone breaks into her house, she doesn’t get fighting mad like most heroine’s might – she just plain freaks out.
Brodey I was a little divided on. He was a man’s man kind of man. Strong and handsome, he has a loving family that all support each other. It seemed his only imperfection was a temporarily injured arm. That and the fact that he’s a bit over-protective, which I found amusing (although I’m not sure I’d find it so fun in real life).
On top of the characters, there was just enough mystery to keep my senses involved and interested. The Detective is another Harlequin book that (happily) proved me wrong once again.
July 1, 2015
The Detective is Adrienne Giordano’s latest book in the Harlequin Intrigue line of books. The storyline is sure to pull you in and keep you hooked until you’ve read the very last page.
Lexi Vanderbilt is an interior designer (not a decorator) hired to help stage a house that has been vacant for the past two years in order to facilitate the sale of it. If she can redesign the home and it sells within forty-five days of her hire date, she will earn an extra twenty percent commission; thereby allowing her the ability to hire an assistant so she won’t have to work all day and all night to make her business grow and flourish. Part of her design process is not to just repaint and add frills, but to change and gut some rooms in the house. The problem: one of the rooms she wants to change was the scene of a murder two years ago.
Brodey Hayward is a Homicide Detective on medical leave. Since he is bored and “itching for something to do”, he agrees to review the case for his sister who has been hired pro bono to solve the cold case murder that occurred in the home that Lexi is redecorating. Brodey tries to only give his sister one day of looking at the case because he could get in trouble with his superiors since he is on leave. The problem: Brodey can’t just give one day to reviewing the information. Since he is still looking at every piece of information he can get his hands on, he will not let Lexi tear apart the room in which the murder was committed until he is satisfied he has exhausted all possibilities.
Lexi is indirectly responsible for Brodey being there to begin with, but all she can see are dollar signs and she wants him to go away. As Lexi becomes a target for her involvement in resurrecting the “cold case”, Brodey wants to protect her and solve the murder even if it means trouble for him. The more Lexi and Brodey are around each other, the more their attraction grows. They each have their issues with each other: Being a Homicide Detective, Brodey looks at life through a jaded prism while Lexi looks at life through rose colored glasses. Can Lexi get Brodey to ease up on being overly cautious so he can live life without always being in detective mode? Can Brodey get Lexi to learn to be more aware of her surroundings so she won’t be so vulnerable? You will have to read The Detective to find out. Ms. Giordano even has an interesting twist to the story as the murderer is found.
I always look forward to reading anything written by Adrienne Giordano. The Detective did not disappoint me as I not only enjoyed the storyline but the well developed characters of Brodey and Lexi. I give this book a solid 4-star rating; I would have given it 5-stars if there was more action involved as Lexi is being stalked.
*** I received an advanced copy for an honest review that is my own. ***
Lexi Vanderbilt is an interior designer (not a decorator) hired to help stage a house that has been vacant for the past two years in order to facilitate the sale of it. If she can redesign the home and it sells within forty-five days of her hire date, she will earn an extra twenty percent commission; thereby allowing her the ability to hire an assistant so she won’t have to work all day and all night to make her business grow and flourish. Part of her design process is not to just repaint and add frills, but to change and gut some rooms in the house. The problem: one of the rooms she wants to change was the scene of a murder two years ago.
Brodey Hayward is a Homicide Detective on medical leave. Since he is bored and “itching for something to do”, he agrees to review the case for his sister who has been hired pro bono to solve the cold case murder that occurred in the home that Lexi is redecorating. Brodey tries to only give his sister one day of looking at the case because he could get in trouble with his superiors since he is on leave. The problem: Brodey can’t just give one day to reviewing the information. Since he is still looking at every piece of information he can get his hands on, he will not let Lexi tear apart the room in which the murder was committed until he is satisfied he has exhausted all possibilities.
Lexi is indirectly responsible for Brodey being there to begin with, but all she can see are dollar signs and she wants him to go away. As Lexi becomes a target for her involvement in resurrecting the “cold case”, Brodey wants to protect her and solve the murder even if it means trouble for him. The more Lexi and Brodey are around each other, the more their attraction grows. They each have their issues with each other: Being a Homicide Detective, Brodey looks at life through a jaded prism while Lexi looks at life through rose colored glasses. Can Lexi get Brodey to ease up on being overly cautious so he can live life without always being in detective mode? Can Brodey get Lexi to learn to be more aware of her surroundings so she won’t be so vulnerable? You will have to read The Detective to find out. Ms. Giordano even has an interesting twist to the story as the murderer is found.
I always look forward to reading anything written by Adrienne Giordano. The Detective did not disappoint me as I not only enjoyed the storyline but the well developed characters of Brodey and Lexi. I give this book a solid 4-star rating; I would have given it 5-stars if there was more action involved as Lexi is being stalked.
*** I received an advanced copy for an honest review that is my own. ***
September 6, 2015
Reviewed by Gemini
The Detective was a good book. I will not deny that. I was just not blown away by it. That’s probably more because I read so many suspense and mystery novels that it takes a lot to impress me at this point. I will say that the plot was slightly different from the usual overly violent or complicated books that I read. The Detective was very easy to follow and although you didn’t know what may happen next, I wasn’t too surprised when it did. There was a familiar flow about it that works.
The Detective is the story of Chicago homicide detective Brodey Hayward and interior designer Alexis “Lexi” Vanderbilt. They end up butting heads because Brodey is enlisted by his private investigator sister, Jenna, to consult on a cold case. The cold case happens to involve a murder that took place inside the house that Lexi is trying to renovate so that the victim’s widow can sell the house for a good return. It sounds simple enough on the surface. As Brodey starts to lend a hand, he only can really use one because his other arm is in a sling from an off-duty accident which has forced him to be out on leave for several weeks now, he delays Lexi’s plans and starts to get under her skin. Of course, that creates friction in a good and bad way. The off the books investigation starts to stir up some real trouble that brings the killer back into the picture and puts Lexi’s life in danger. And Brodey spends a lot of time explaining to Lexi that the world is not full of puppies and rainbows while she insists on looking at the brighter side of life.
The way that Brodey has to accommodate for his injury makes him a little more subdued and less of the alpha male that he could be. His injury has made him frustrated and bored so this case renews his drive. That’s actually the most refreshing part of the book. Brodey is forced to ask for help, even in the bedroom. He is a young detective and is a skilled investigator. He doesn’t even carry a gun since he is actually on medical leave from the police force. When he is forced to protect Lexi from a violent confrontation, he uses pure will and a little help from Lexi to stay alive. How else would they get their happy ending?
**Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
The Detective was a good book. I will not deny that. I was just not blown away by it. That’s probably more because I read so many suspense and mystery novels that it takes a lot to impress me at this point. I will say that the plot was slightly different from the usual overly violent or complicated books that I read. The Detective was very easy to follow and although you didn’t know what may happen next, I wasn’t too surprised when it did. There was a familiar flow about it that works.
The Detective is the story of Chicago homicide detective Brodey Hayward and interior designer Alexis “Lexi” Vanderbilt. They end up butting heads because Brodey is enlisted by his private investigator sister, Jenna, to consult on a cold case. The cold case happens to involve a murder that took place inside the house that Lexi is trying to renovate so that the victim’s widow can sell the house for a good return. It sounds simple enough on the surface. As Brodey starts to lend a hand, he only can really use one because his other arm is in a sling from an off-duty accident which has forced him to be out on leave for several weeks now, he delays Lexi’s plans and starts to get under her skin. Of course, that creates friction in a good and bad way. The off the books investigation starts to stir up some real trouble that brings the killer back into the picture and puts Lexi’s life in danger. And Brodey spends a lot of time explaining to Lexi that the world is not full of puppies and rainbows while she insists on looking at the brighter side of life.
The way that Brodey has to accommodate for his injury makes him a little more subdued and less of the alpha male that he could be. His injury has made him frustrated and bored so this case renews his drive. That’s actually the most refreshing part of the book. Brodey is forced to ask for help, even in the bedroom. He is a young detective and is a skilled investigator. He doesn’t even carry a gun since he is actually on medical leave from the police force. When he is forced to protect Lexi from a violent confrontation, he uses pure will and a little help from Lexi to stay alive. How else would they get their happy ending?
**Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
July 5, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book – the characters were well developed, the mystery of both solving the cold case and the current threat was well devised, and the romance between Brodey and Lexi was interwoven nicely within the story. This was a quick read, but nothing about the story felt rushed, and I really enjoyed the banter between an over-protective Brodey and Lexi.
Brodey’s all sorts of frustrated at being out on medical leave after injuring his elbow – he’s got nothing to keep his mind busy and is going a bit stir crazy…even his mother has told him to get a life! When his sister Jenna asks him to give her his perspective on a case she is working he jumps at the chance to do something, even if it’s just for a couple of days. Of course as fate would have it, Brodey gets sucked into the case and also finds himself taking quite an interest in the interior designer whose job his investigation is holding up.
Lexi’s all sorts of tired – she’s building her interior decorating business by herself, and now the only thing that stands in her way of completing her job and getting the bonus she needs to afford the assistant to help with the workload is the very sexy detective determined to delay her redecorating in his search for potential evidence.
I just loved Brodey and Lexi. They were exactly what the other needed, even if they didn’t know it! I loved watching these two recognize the attraction for each other and not shy away from it – they had such great chemistry! Even though Lexi is still getting over her cheating ex, she doesn’t shy away from the possibility of Brodey. I did get a bit frustrated with her at the end, but things were resolved fairly quickly so it wasn’t too bad!
The cold case and current threat to Lexi were well done. The way things unfolded and events played out balanced well with the romance.
I really enjoy the authors voice and storytelling – this was another great romantic suspense that would appeal to all romance readers.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
Brodey’s all sorts of frustrated at being out on medical leave after injuring his elbow – he’s got nothing to keep his mind busy and is going a bit stir crazy…even his mother has told him to get a life! When his sister Jenna asks him to give her his perspective on a case she is working he jumps at the chance to do something, even if it’s just for a couple of days. Of course as fate would have it, Brodey gets sucked into the case and also finds himself taking quite an interest in the interior designer whose job his investigation is holding up.
Lexi’s all sorts of tired – she’s building her interior decorating business by herself, and now the only thing that stands in her way of completing her job and getting the bonus she needs to afford the assistant to help with the workload is the very sexy detective determined to delay her redecorating in his search for potential evidence.
I just loved Brodey and Lexi. They were exactly what the other needed, even if they didn’t know it! I loved watching these two recognize the attraction for each other and not shy away from it – they had such great chemistry! Even though Lexi is still getting over her cheating ex, she doesn’t shy away from the possibility of Brodey. I did get a bit frustrated with her at the end, but things were resolved fairly quickly so it wasn’t too bad!
The cold case and current threat to Lexi were well done. The way things unfolded and events played out balanced well with the romance.
I really enjoy the authors voice and storytelling – this was another great romantic suspense that would appeal to all romance readers.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
July 6, 2015
The Detective written by Adrienne Giordano
I was given an Arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book it is well written, the characters are well developed and believable.
Let's start out with Alexis "Lexi" Vanderbilt an up and coming interior designer, she is headstrong and stubborn along with being very talented. Lexi has taken on a job to redesign the entire interior of a house that just is not selling due to it's history.
Brodey Hayward is a local homicide detective Who is recovering from an injury and has been asked by his sister to investigate an old homicide case.
Brodey runs into Lexi at the house where she is trying to get renovations underway for her client. Brodey soon puts the breaks on Lexi's plans for one room in the house while he tries to put together the chain of events that led up to the death of the former owner. Lexi ends up becoming involved with the investigation after Brodey asks her to sketch out the room and after she and his sister hang flyers up in the neighborhood asking people to call with any information about the murder.
After Lexi is approached by a strange man, Brodey becomes extremely concerned for her safety especially after her home is broken into.
The sparks fly in this one and the action is sure to keep you involved in the book. The storyline is really well developed. Adrienne has done it again with this one. If you love a great mystery and a little romance thrown in for good measure this one is for you.
I was given an Arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book it is well written, the characters are well developed and believable.
Let's start out with Alexis "Lexi" Vanderbilt an up and coming interior designer, she is headstrong and stubborn along with being very talented. Lexi has taken on a job to redesign the entire interior of a house that just is not selling due to it's history.
Brodey Hayward is a local homicide detective Who is recovering from an injury and has been asked by his sister to investigate an old homicide case.
Brodey runs into Lexi at the house where she is trying to get renovations underway for her client. Brodey soon puts the breaks on Lexi's plans for one room in the house while he tries to put together the chain of events that led up to the death of the former owner. Lexi ends up becoming involved with the investigation after Brodey asks her to sketch out the room and after she and his sister hang flyers up in the neighborhood asking people to call with any information about the murder.
After Lexi is approached by a strange man, Brodey becomes extremely concerned for her safety especially after her home is broken into.
The sparks fly in this one and the action is sure to keep you involved in the book. The storyline is really well developed. Adrienne has done it again with this one. If you love a great mystery and a little romance thrown in for good measure this one is for you.
July 3, 2015
The Detective is Adrienne Giordano’s latest edition in her line of Intrigue books. We are introduced to Lexi Vanderbilt who is an interior designer hired to stage a home where a murder took place two years ago. If the house sells within forty-five days, she will receive a bonus that means the world to her since she wants to hire an assistant and launch herself into another level of designers.
While reviewing her ideas, she is greeted by Brodey Hayward who is a Homicide Detective on medical leave. His sister who is a private investigator has asked for his assistance to solve this unsolved murder. Brodey is immediately drawn to the laundry room where the murder occurred. And of course, this is one of the rooms that Lexi insists on redecorating.
Sparks immediately fly between Lexi and Brodey over the remodeling of the room. To assist with the investigation, Lexi posts fliers about the crime which backfires on her. Brodey’s overprotectiveness drives Lexi crazy until she becomes a target, too.
Brodey and Lexi rush to solve the case. Can they solve the case before someone else is murdered? The Detective is a fast read that kept involved right from the start. I love reading anything Adrienne Giordano writes. I highly recommend The Detective and any of the books that Ms. Giordano has contributed to Harlequin’s Intrigue line. I’d like to disclose that I received a copy of The Detective in exchange for a fair and honest review.
While reviewing her ideas, she is greeted by Brodey Hayward who is a Homicide Detective on medical leave. His sister who is a private investigator has asked for his assistance to solve this unsolved murder. Brodey is immediately drawn to the laundry room where the murder occurred. And of course, this is one of the rooms that Lexi insists on redecorating.
Sparks immediately fly between Lexi and Brodey over the remodeling of the room. To assist with the investigation, Lexi posts fliers about the crime which backfires on her. Brodey’s overprotectiveness drives Lexi crazy until she becomes a target, too.
Brodey and Lexi rush to solve the case. Can they solve the case before someone else is murdered? The Detective is a fast read that kept involved right from the start. I love reading anything Adrienne Giordano writes. I highly recommend The Detective and any of the books that Ms. Giordano has contributed to Harlequin’s Intrigue line. I’d like to disclose that I received a copy of The Detective in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 6, 2015
3.5 Stars
Lexi Vanderbilt is on her way to becoming the "it" designer in Chicago. All she needs to do is finish her latest clients home so it can be sold. Once this house is completed she'll get her name out there, get her bonus, and get her assistant so she can finally get a good night sleep.
Detective Brodey Hayward is on disability for an injury, bored and itching to do something. He agrees to help his PI sister with a case she's working. He's pulled into the cold case murder of Jonathan Williams.
Lexi and Brodey meet when he arrives at the home Jonathan Williams was murdered in; the home that Lexi is currently designing. There is an instant attraction and an almost simultaneous dislike for each other. These two started off in a love/hate relationship that led way to some serious sexual tension. As the case starts to heat up so do things between Lexi and Brodey. Will old wounds stand in the way of what could be? What will happen when someone doesn't want this case reopened? When danger sets its sights on Lexi, can Brodey keep her safe?
Adrienne Giordano created an engaging mystery that drew me in and then filled it with suspense that kept me turning the pages. When combined with interesting characters and a sweet romance, you've got a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed The Detective and look forward to what Giordano delivers next.
Lexi Vanderbilt is on her way to becoming the "it" designer in Chicago. All she needs to do is finish her latest clients home so it can be sold. Once this house is completed she'll get her name out there, get her bonus, and get her assistant so she can finally get a good night sleep.
Detective Brodey Hayward is on disability for an injury, bored and itching to do something. He agrees to help his PI sister with a case she's working. He's pulled into the cold case murder of Jonathan Williams.
Lexi and Brodey meet when he arrives at the home Jonathan Williams was murdered in; the home that Lexi is currently designing. There is an instant attraction and an almost simultaneous dislike for each other. These two started off in a love/hate relationship that led way to some serious sexual tension. As the case starts to heat up so do things between Lexi and Brodey. Will old wounds stand in the way of what could be? What will happen when someone doesn't want this case reopened? When danger sets its sights on Lexi, can Brodey keep her safe?
Adrienne Giordano created an engaging mystery that drew me in and then filled it with suspense that kept me turning the pages. When combined with interesting characters and a sweet romance, you've got a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed The Detective and look forward to what Giordano delivers next.
September 1, 2015
3.5 Stars
Lexi Vanderbilt is on her way to becoming the "it" designer in Chicago. All she needs to do is finish her latest clients home so it can be sold. Once this house is completed she'll get her name out there, get her bonus, and get her assistant so she can finally get a good night sleep.
Detective Brodey Hayward is on disability for an injury, bored and itching to do something. He agrees to help his PI sister with a case she's working. He's pulled into the cold case murder of Jonathan Williams.
Lexi and Brodey meet when he arrives at the home Jonathan Williams was murdered in; the home that Lexi is currently designing. There is an instant attraction and an almost simultaneous dislike for each other. These two started off in a love/hate relationship that led way to some serious sexual tension. As the case starts to heat up so do things between Lexi and Brodey. Will old wounds stand in the way of what could be? What will happen when someone doesn't want this case reopened? When danger sets its sights on Lexi, can Brodey keep her safe?
Adrienne Giordano created an engaging mystery that drew me in and then filled it with suspense that kept me turning the pages. When combined with interesting characters and a sweet romance, you've got a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed The Detective and look forward to what Giordano delivers next.
~Erin
Lexi Vanderbilt is on her way to becoming the "it" designer in Chicago. All she needs to do is finish her latest clients home so it can be sold. Once this house is completed she'll get her name out there, get her bonus, and get her assistant so she can finally get a good night sleep.
Detective Brodey Hayward is on disability for an injury, bored and itching to do something. He agrees to help his PI sister with a case she's working. He's pulled into the cold case murder of Jonathan Williams.
Lexi and Brodey meet when he arrives at the home Jonathan Williams was murdered in; the home that Lexi is currently designing. There is an instant attraction and an almost simultaneous dislike for each other. These two started off in a love/hate relationship that led way to some serious sexual tension. As the case starts to heat up so do things between Lexi and Brodey. Will old wounds stand in the way of what could be? What will happen when someone doesn't want this case reopened? When danger sets its sights on Lexi, can Brodey keep her safe?
Adrienne Giordano created an engaging mystery that drew me in and then filled it with suspense that kept me turning the pages. When combined with interesting characters and a sweet romance, you've got a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed The Detective and look forward to what Giordano delivers next.
~Erin
July 3, 2015
THE DETECTIVE was such a good read! Loaded with action, danger, and "push-pull" relationships, Adrienne Giordano always keeps me hooked when reading her Harlequin Intrigues.
In this story you have a feisty heroine that is focused on one thing...redecorating a house and getting it sold as quick as possible so she can get a bonus and hire a much needed assistant. There is only one catch. I murder had taken place in this house and it was still unsolved. In walks a detective, currently on leave from his duties, that has been roped in to trying to solve this cold case of murder. When one wants to tear down and the other wants to leave "as is" while he investigates, sparks start to fly in more ways than one. The chemistry between the two soon ignites and as danger surrounds them it appears someone doesn't want this case solved.
Reading the adventures of Levi and Detective Brodey will keep you turning pages to the end. It's an exciting, fun read with a few twist that keeps you guessing. If you like it as much as I did, you will definitely want to read other books by Adrienne Giordano.
In this story you have a feisty heroine that is focused on one thing...redecorating a house and getting it sold as quick as possible so she can get a bonus and hire a much needed assistant. There is only one catch. I murder had taken place in this house and it was still unsolved. In walks a detective, currently on leave from his duties, that has been roped in to trying to solve this cold case of murder. When one wants to tear down and the other wants to leave "as is" while he investigates, sparks start to fly in more ways than one. The chemistry between the two soon ignites and as danger surrounds them it appears someone doesn't want this case solved.
Reading the adventures of Levi and Detective Brodey will keep you turning pages to the end. It's an exciting, fun read with a few twist that keeps you guessing. If you like it as much as I did, you will definitely want to read other books by Adrienne Giordano.
July 8, 2015
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, betrayal, suspense, and heartbreak.
This is Lexi and Brodey’s story. Lexi is trying to get a house ready to sell but there was a death at the house before and a PI is coming to investigate. Brodey is on leave as he is injured. His sister asked him to help out on a cold case. But while investigating the cold case he is stirring up trouble. That trouble is now after Lexi. Can he protect her from the trouble or will he end up leading the trouble right to her? Can they solve the crime and figure out who is after Lexi before it’s too late?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, betrayal, suspense, and heartbreak.
This is Lexi and Brodey’s story. Lexi is trying to get a house ready to sell but there was a death at the house before and a PI is coming to investigate. Brodey is on leave as he is injured. His sister asked him to help out on a cold case. But while investigating the cold case he is stirring up trouble. That trouble is now after Lexi. Can he protect her from the trouble or will he end up leading the trouble right to her? Can they solve the crime and figure out who is after Lexi before it’s too late?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
July 4, 2015
Intriguing and mysterious is the best way to describe this one. Lexi is hired to renovate a home where a murder had taken place. All she wants to do is to help the widow and her children to move on, but soon threats are being made toward Lexi once the cold case is reopened. Brodey on injury leave from work is helping his sister with the Williams' murder case which brings him into Lexi's world. Brodey will do anything he can to protect Lexi. Brodey sees the world as what the worst can happen, but Lexi brings an innocence and a new perspective of the world that is refreshing to his life. But can Brodey prove he is nothing like Lexi's ex? When things start getting really heated and crazy can he protect Lexi? Or will he be too late?
June 28, 2015
Ms. Giordano has another huge hit on her hands, at least in this reader's eyes. I truly love her books and The Detective does not disappoint! As a matter of fact it has it all, intrigue, humor and best of all romance.
The Hunky/Gorgeous Detective Brodey, is off on sick leave and bored to death! He is roped into helping his little sister (a law firm PI) with a case. That's where he meets the sexy as heck Lexi. Trouble is, rather than hit it off, they push each other's buttons. ALL THE WRONG ONES! But when trouble comes calling and they are forced to help each other, more than just sparks fly! Awesome Storyline & one of Ms. Giordano's best works(IMHO)! HIGHLY RECOMMEND
The Hunky/Gorgeous Detective Brodey, is off on sick leave and bored to death! He is roped into helping his little sister (a law firm PI) with a case. That's where he meets the sexy as heck Lexi. Trouble is, rather than hit it off, they push each other's buttons. ALL THE WRONG ONES! But when trouble comes calling and they are forced to help each other, more than just sparks fly! Awesome Storyline & one of Ms. Giordano's best works(IMHO)! HIGHLY RECOMMEND
June 17, 2015
I absolutely enjoy this series of books by Adrienne Giordano. She kept my attention on the story and even managed to surprise me with the ending! In this book, Jenna Hayward's brother, Brodey, gets his own story. While out on medical leave from the police department, Jenna asks for his help on a pro bono case she is working on. While helping on the case, sparks fly between him and interior designer Alexis Vanderbilt, who is working on the house where a murder occurred.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2015
I really enjoyed this fast-paced suspenseful romance set in Chicago. The interesting characters and compelling plot had me glued to the book from beginning to end. I loved the chemistry and interaction between strong, independent interior designer, Lexi Vanderbilt, and Brodey Hayward, an overprotective, sexy homicide detective. The unsolved cold case murder investigation , with its twists and turns, had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
The Detective is a must read for all who enjoy well-written contemporary romances. I can hardly wait to read the next book by Adrienne Giordano.
The Detective is a must read for all who enjoy well-written contemporary romances. I can hardly wait to read the next book by Adrienne Giordano.
January 31, 2016
IN this book we are introduced to Jenna's brother Brodey. Jenna is wanting his help as she is working another case...On the job she has for him he meets Lexi, an interior designer. They didn't appear to like each other at first but sparks soon fly! Brodey is on disability from being a detective with a bum elbow but at the house Lexi is working at he works on a job, which leads to trouble for Lexi. A murder from two years ago happened at the house but was unsolved..will they solve it? Will the murderer be found? You need to check out this book! Another must read in the series!!
July 4, 2015
This story is full of suspense, mystery, misunderstandings, stubbornness and plenty of sexual chemistry. It has a well written story line with unique characters that have remarkable interactions. Brodey and Lexi are both set in their ways and focused on their careers, but when they meet, the wild ride starts. This is a must read as this author never disappoints you.
Received copy for an honest review.
Received copy for an honest review.
August 18, 2015
I love this series - each book is a stand alone book, but I love how the characters reappear. This is a wonderful romantic suspense book that got me hooked from the first page and kept me engaged until the very last page. It had it all, from a compelling mystery, a sexy potential couple, and an expertly told story. This is a must read for fans of romantic suspense.
July 10, 2015
Ok I love this series fast paced action with romance in there too! Brody and Lexi make a great time in finding out the truth ! Adrienne does such a great job writing the mix that you can't put it down . Strong men strong women great friendships . If you have not read her work yet what are you waiting for go now
September 1, 2015
Amazing book. I enjoyed the way the author had the two main characters challenge each other verbally and how it lead into romance. The book was filled with suspense with that touch of romance that made you read faster so you could discovery what happens. I did not foresee this ending. Highly recommend you read this book.
September 3, 2015
An entertaining read. While this book doesn't have the flair that some of the others have, it was a good, solid read with engaging characters. I really enjoyed Lexi and her easy going personality. If you like lighter romantic suspense, The Detective is for you!
December 29, 2015
Lovely Story
I have read several of Adrienne's books and. They are interesting, funny and very readable, I love her characters and her stories.
I have read several of Adrienne's books and. They are interesting, funny and very readable, I love her characters and her stories.
November 19, 2017
A beautiful Up and Coming Interior Designer and a Hot Hunky Detective comes together to solve a two year old murder and service the treats and the heat that's coming from both of them.
July 12, 2015
Detective Brodey Hayward’s off from work due to a disability, and ready to climb the walls. So when his younger sister Jenna (heroine of
The Marshal
) asks him to take a quick look at a cold case she’s investigating, he figures he’ll be in and out before anyone in the department is the wiser. What he doesn’t plan on is the case pushing his something’s-not-quite-right button. Or the distracting woman the grieving widow’s hired to redecorate the murder scene so it will finally sell…
Interior designer (don’t call her a decorator!) Alexis Vanderbilt has only a few days to stage the former murder scene, a job that could finally put her brand new business firmly in the black and enable her to get a much-needed assistant. If only that infuriatingly sexy off-duty detective would let her rip up the floor in the laundry room, AKA the scene of the crime…
The Detective is another great read from Ms. Giordano, filled with her trademark sexy-yet-funny writing and just the right amount of suspense to temper the romance. Even when Lexi and Brodey are at odds with each other, they find it hard to deny their attraction. And when they give in to it? Look out…
Along with the sexy-fun times, there’s a pretty decent mystery here, with a surprising twist toward the end. All in all, The Detective was a great addition to the series, and an all-around entertaining read!
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Interior designer (don’t call her a decorator!) Alexis Vanderbilt has only a few days to stage the former murder scene, a job that could finally put her brand new business firmly in the black and enable her to get a much-needed assistant. If only that infuriatingly sexy off-duty detective would let her rip up the floor in the laundry room, AKA the scene of the crime…
The Detective is another great read from Ms. Giordano, filled with her trademark sexy-yet-funny writing and just the right amount of suspense to temper the romance. Even when Lexi and Brodey are at odds with each other, they find it hard to deny their attraction. And when they give in to it? Look out…
He touched her nose, grinning at her because—holy hell—he might be crazy about this woman. “I love intelligent women.”So. Fun.
Obviously wanting to play, she tapped his nose. “I love intelligent men. Especially ones who offer to sleep on my sofa—instead of trying to get lucky—so I don’t have to be alone.”
“But I did get lucky.”
“After you said you’d sleep on the sofa. See how this works?”
Brodey cracked up.
Along with the sexy-fun times, there’s a pretty decent mystery here, with a surprising twist toward the end. All in all, The Detective was a great addition to the series, and an all-around entertaining read!
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2015
I really enjoyed the mystery waiting to unravel in this book!
It all starts with Lexi Vanderbilt being hired to redecorate a house where a murder occurred two years prior so the remaining family can sell it and move on. A friend of Lexi's is intrigued by the story behind the house and gets a Private Investigator her husband works with to look into the cold case to see if she can find any additional info. The P.I., Jenna Hayward, asks her Detective brother Brodey who is out on medical leave at the moment to look over the files with her and give her his opinion.
Brodey gets under Lexi's skin the second he arrives at the house and they get into a tiff over the scene of the crime being changed. They begin to work together on the investigation when little things keep happening and turning up that lead them to believe they have stumbled upon the killer.
Will Brodey be able to keep Lexi safe when the person they suspect turns his sights on her? Have they actually solved this crime? Will Lexi forgive Brodey when he disappoints her by not sharing enough info? Read the book to find out! Very enjoyable read!
It all starts with Lexi Vanderbilt being hired to redecorate a house where a murder occurred two years prior so the remaining family can sell it and move on. A friend of Lexi's is intrigued by the story behind the house and gets a Private Investigator her husband works with to look into the cold case to see if she can find any additional info. The P.I., Jenna Hayward, asks her Detective brother Brodey who is out on medical leave at the moment to look over the files with her and give her his opinion.
Brodey gets under Lexi's skin the second he arrives at the house and they get into a tiff over the scene of the crime being changed. They begin to work together on the investigation when little things keep happening and turning up that lead them to believe they have stumbled upon the killer.
Will Brodey be able to keep Lexi safe when the person they suspect turns his sights on her? Have they actually solved this crime? Will Lexi forgive Brodey when he disappoints her by not sharing enough info? Read the book to find out! Very enjoyable read!
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January 12, 2016"..., Giordano’s latest provides the perfect melding of romance and mystery" (RT Book Reviews, 4 stars).
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January 12, 2016received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
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