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Holly Woods Files #1
Twisted Bond
"I’m an Italian-Texan woman in a family full of cops. I’m passionate and shoot before I think. You only f*ck with me if you’re stupid." Photograph cheating spouses. Hand over the evidence. Cash my check. That was my plan when I returned home to Holly Woods, Texas, and became a private investigator. Finding the dead body in my dumpster? Yeah… Given the choice, I think I would have opted out of that little discovery, especially since all three of my brothers are cops. And my Italian grandmother is sure the reason I’m single is because of my job. Of course, my connection to the victim is entirely coincidental. Until I’m hired by her husband to investigate her murder and shoved bang-smack into the path of Detective Drake Nash. My nemesis, a persistent pain in my ass, and one hell of a sexy son of a bitch. Shame he still holds a grudge from that time I shot him in the foot twelve years ago, or we could have something. In another life. So now all I have to do is avoid my nonna’s blind dates, try not to blackmail my brothers into giving me confidential police files, and absolutely do not point my gun at Drake Nash. Or kiss him. Or jump his bones. All while I hunt down the killer. Sounds totally simple—until a second body proves that sometimes things that start as coincidences don’t always end up that way…
272 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2015
511 people are currently reading
3839 people want to read
About the author
Emma Hart
129 books7,564 followersEmma Hart is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels and has been translated into several different languages. She first put fingers to keys at the age of eighteen after her husband told her she read too much and should write her own.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 426 reviews
June 19, 2015
4 Twisted Stars.
Noelle is an ex-cop turned detective, in a family of Italian hot-headed women and alpha-male guys who are also cops. When a body of a woman appears and the investigation brings Noelle to believe that it has something to do with her, she dives into the case, trying to figure it out. Enter detective Drake Nash. The blue eyed sexy detective, who between him and Noelle there’s a huge sexual tension they both disguise as “hate”. He tries to figure out the case while keeping Noelle out of it… expect that she is set of figuring things out at her own way. Get in, and get ready for a twisted ride.
This book was a nice surprise, with a couple of heroes that despite believing hating each other, clearly can’t resist the other, with some sweet romantic background and tensely steamy scenes the “romantic” part of the book was well developed, I really loved the banter between the MC’s. The mystery part was quite well accomplished as well, as I was curious through most of the book. I have one itch, although. I’ve read somewhere (probably on Facebook, I don’t exactly remember) the publicity description for this book was something along the lines of “Think Agatha Christie, only sexier”. Well, that’s the point where I stomp my foot on the ground. The author may be a good romance writer (and in my opinion, she is), but don’t compare yourself to the mastermind genius that was Agatha Christie. She was the creator of Poirot, for Christ’s Sake! There’s only a handful of writers who can actually brag about that, and all of them with an impressive CV on mystery books. But don’t feel bad, these are in fact giant’s shoes to fill.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: The MC’s were nice and the banter between them was funny. But the character really worth talking? The grandmother! Best batsh*t crazy old lady ever written!!
Steam: Some hot scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Noelle is an ex-cop turned detective, in a family of Italian hot-headed women and alpha-male guys who are also cops. When a body of a woman appears and the investigation brings Noelle to believe that it has something to do with her, she dives into the case, trying to figure it out. Enter detective Drake Nash. The blue eyed sexy detective, who between him and Noelle there’s a huge sexual tension they both disguise as “hate”. He tries to figure out the case while keeping Noelle out of it… expect that she is set of figuring things out at her own way. Get in, and get ready for a twisted ride.
This book was a nice surprise, with a couple of heroes that despite believing hating each other, clearly can’t resist the other, with some sweet romantic background and tensely steamy scenes the “romantic” part of the book was well developed, I really loved the banter between the MC’s. The mystery part was quite well accomplished as well, as I was curious through most of the book. I have one itch, although. I’ve read somewhere (probably on Facebook, I don’t exactly remember) the publicity description for this book was something along the lines of “Think Agatha Christie, only sexier”. Well, that’s the point where I stomp my foot on the ground. The author may be a good romance writer (and in my opinion, she is), but don’t compare yourself to the mastermind genius that was Agatha Christie. She was the creator of Poirot, for Christ’s Sake! There’s only a handful of writers who can actually brag about that, and all of them with an impressive CV on mystery books. But don’t feel bad, these are in fact giant’s shoes to fill.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: The MC’s were nice and the banter between them was funny. But the character really worth talking? The grandmother! Best batsh*t crazy old lady ever written!!
Steam: Some hot scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
February 10, 2016
I'm so confused of what to say about this book. Did I like? Did I hate it? I just don't know!
The plot:
Noelle Bond is an ex cop turned private investigator who gets thrown in the middle of a murder investigation when a dead body is found in the dumpster behind her office. Working the investigation means working with Detective Drake Nash, an infuriating man whom she can't stand. Yet she is extremely attracted to him.
The book:
So here is the confusing part. As a mystery book I liked it and it was intriguing. As a romance, I wanted to shoot myself in the foot because I was so frustrated. The investigation kept me interested and trying to figure out for myself who the killer was and what everyone was hiding. There were a lot of secrets that came out while reading and most of them I didn't suspect. I like when a book isn't completely predictable and Twisted Bond certainly wasn't.
On the other hand, I kept waiting and waiting for the smexy parts or at least just some romance! There was none! It was so annoying because I was expecting it and it never happened. I'm not a fan of books where the main characters aren't together by at least the middle of the book. There were also a lot of unanswered questions that I had. It was mentioned so many times that Noelle once shot Drake in the foot. WELL WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED PEOPLE?!? And Noelle would hint that there was a specific reason she left the police force and that she blamed herself for it. So again, WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED?!?
The Characters: Drake was only meh for me. We never really learned much about him so it was hard to connect with his character. Noelle, though, oh boy! I wanted to slap her. She kept bringing up the fact that she was really good with a gun and would yell around her family that she was the best one there that could handle a gun. Okay, I get it, you think you're hot shit. Doesn't mean I want to hear it over and over and OVER again. It was like she tried too hard to be a badass so it wasn't believable to me.
Recommend?
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a mystery. Don't make my mistake and go into this thinking that there will be much romance, though.
The plot:
Noelle Bond is an ex cop turned private investigator who gets thrown in the middle of a murder investigation when a dead body is found in the dumpster behind her office. Working the investigation means working with Detective Drake Nash, an infuriating man whom she can't stand. Yet she is extremely attracted to him.
The book:
So here is the confusing part. As a mystery book I liked it and it was intriguing. As a romance, I wanted to shoot myself in the foot because I was so frustrated. The investigation kept me interested and trying to figure out for myself who the killer was and what everyone was hiding. There were a lot of secrets that came out while reading and most of them I didn't suspect. I like when a book isn't completely predictable and Twisted Bond certainly wasn't.
On the other hand, I kept waiting and waiting for the smexy parts or at least just some romance! There was none! It was so annoying because I was expecting it and it never happened. I'm not a fan of books where the main characters aren't together by at least the middle of the book. There were also a lot of unanswered questions that I had. It was mentioned so many times that Noelle once shot Drake in the foot. WELL WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED PEOPLE?!? And Noelle would hint that there was a specific reason she left the police force and that she blamed herself for it. So again, WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED?!?
The Characters: Drake was only meh for me. We never really learned much about him so it was hard to connect with his character. Noelle, though, oh boy! I wanted to slap her. She kept bringing up the fact that she was really good with a gun and would yell around her family that she was the best one there that could handle a gun. Okay, I get it, you think you're hot shit. Doesn't mean I want to hear it over and over and OVER again. It was like she tried too hard to be a badass so it wasn't believable to me.
Recommend?
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a mystery. Don't make my mistake and go into this thinking that there will be much romance, though.
June 27, 2019
Re-read 26th - 27th June 2019.
I originally read this back in 2015. I loved it and even gave it 5*. I always intended to continue on with the series I just never got round to it. So four years later I decided it’s time to correct that. Starting with a re-read of course.
The problem is in that four years I’ve read a lot of books. I’m not quite as easy to please. But apparently I’m easy to annoy.
My rating has changed. I liked the mystery and Nonna. But honestly Noelle drove me crazy. I can’t believe she didn’t drive me nuts the first time round.
Now don’t get me wrong I love a strong independent woman. But she spent so much time telling us how great she was. And the fact that she was constantly mad or annoyed at something/everything was just too much. I felt like shooting her myself on several occasions.
So the question is do I continue?
The next book is waiting on my kindle....
Original review - 5*
Nonna alone would get 5 stars.
Below is the first paragraph from the book......
I always wanted to be a Bond girl.
When I was seven, I proudly declared to my family that I would one day be beneath Sean Connery on a haystack, a la Pussy Galore. My mother laughed, my father choked, my brothers looked at me like I’d gone batshit crazy, and my Nonna yelled that I would only ever be beneath a good Italian boy, preferably a Catholic, and only on my wedding night.
........and that was all I needed I was hooked, this is a fabulous hilarious read, good story, great characters a bit of everything really.
The main character Noelle is twenty-eight and comes from a family of cops, grandfather, father and all three of her brothers plus she was a cop herself but now she's a Private Investigator, a really good one, she's funny, loves expensive shoes and has more than a healthy obsession with cupcakes, I mean seriously, the girl is obsessed.
Detective Drake Nash, what can I say about him, he's smoking hot, intelligent, arrogant and rubs Noelle up the wrong way, I suppose it doesn't help that 12 years ago she accidentally shot him in the foot, anyway together they're combustible, they annoy the hell out of each other but the sexual chemistry swirling around them makes people step back.
All the characters are fabulous, there's a real sense of family and small town about this but the best thing in the whole book is Nonna, she's an absolute scream, I couldn't even give you examples of her best lines because there's so many it's every time she opens her mouth, she alone would get this book 5 stars I loved her, absolutely loved her.
I'm now just waiting for the next book and hoping there's loads more Nonna.
November 13, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Twisted Bond by Emma Hart is a sexy, slow burn, mysterious and suspenseful detective story. This was unlike any story that I have read from this author because Ms. Hart completely surprised in a good way since she kept me guessing throughout the story. I love a book that engages the readers to be truly invested in the characters as layers, evidence, and truths are slowly exposed and peeled to reveal in this case of whodunit.
Move over, James because there is a new Bond on the scene. And her name is Noelle Bond. Well, in this case Noelle is no secret British agent spy but a private investigator in Holly Woods, Texas. Noelle and her team are usually hired to expose extramarital affairs but suddenly Noelle finds herself entangle in a unsolved murder cases. As Noelle delves deeps into this murder case involving her former clients, she finds herself embroiled with the possibility that she may be the next victim and is the missing link. Well since Noelle is just a private investigator, she finds herself being held under investigation by Detective Drake Nash.
Drake Nash is a detective who works closely with Noelle's family of cops. Drake and Noelle are constantly butting heads and have this push and pull type of relationship. The chemistry brewing between them is an intense sexy slow burn kind of sexual foreplay that usually involves banter and sexual innuendos. While Drake and Noelle tries to solve the case, Drake finds himself constantly wanting and needing to protect Noelle as she find herself in danger. So will Noelle and Drake be able to figure out who the murderer is? Or will they find their love and hate relationship distract them from discovering the culprit?
Like always, Ms. Hart delivers a book that had me devouring this book in one sitting. I loved the suspense, the mystery, the characters, and of course the love/hate relationship of Drake and Noelle. So if you are a fan of suspense mixed with slow burn and mystery, then I highly recommend you to read Twisted Bond. This book had it all from its beautiful writing, intriguing story line, and a chock full of surprising twist and turns.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly... Emma Hart
Twisted Bond by Emma Hart is a sexy, slow burn, mysterious and suspenseful detective story. This was unlike any story that I have read from this author because Ms. Hart completely surprised in a good way since she kept me guessing throughout the story. I love a book that engages the readers to be truly invested in the characters as layers, evidence, and truths are slowly exposed and peeled to reveal in this case of whodunit.
Move over, James because there is a new Bond on the scene. And her name is Noelle Bond. Well, in this case Noelle is no secret British agent spy but a private investigator in Holly Woods, Texas. Noelle and her team are usually hired to expose extramarital affairs but suddenly Noelle finds herself entangle in a unsolved murder cases. As Noelle delves deeps into this murder case involving her former clients, she finds herself embroiled with the possibility that she may be the next victim and is the missing link. Well since Noelle is just a private investigator, she finds herself being held under investigation by Detective Drake Nash.
Drake Nash is a detective who works closely with Noelle's family of cops. Drake and Noelle are constantly butting heads and have this push and pull type of relationship. The chemistry brewing between them is an intense sexy slow burn kind of sexual foreplay that usually involves banter and sexual innuendos. While Drake and Noelle tries to solve the case, Drake finds himself constantly wanting and needing to protect Noelle as she find herself in danger. So will Noelle and Drake be able to figure out who the murderer is? Or will they find their love and hate relationship distract them from discovering the culprit?
Like always, Ms. Hart delivers a book that had me devouring this book in one sitting. I loved the suspense, the mystery, the characters, and of course the love/hate relationship of Drake and Noelle. So if you are a fan of suspense mixed with slow burn and mystery, then I highly recommend you to read Twisted Bond. This book had it all from its beautiful writing, intriguing story line, and a chock full of surprising twist and turns.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly... Emma Hart
July 14, 2020
Twisted Bond es el tipo de historia que se podia haber beneficiado mucho de haber tenido un dual pov, no solo porque la autora creo un protagonista masculino muy interesante sino tambien porque asi el lector consigue un muy necesario descanso de las divagaciones absurdas que tiene la protagonista en muchas ocasiones.
Me falto mas suspense e intriga, y me sobro bastante ese " toque comico " que intenta darle la autora, y digo intenta porque la verdad es que me resulto muy forzado, aunque quizas eso tambien sea culpa de Noelle, puesto que su caracter es de los que te termina hartando transcurridos unos cuantos capitulos.
Ademas para no ser una novela larga, yo le hubiera quitado el ultimo 25%, creo que no aporta nada y que solo da vueltas sobre lo mismo, lo que termina cansando. El que la saga continue teniendo a Noelle y Drake de protagonistas me tiene dudando de continuar con las siguientes partes, tal vez cuando me olvide un poco de lo pesada que me parecio ella, lea el proximo tomo.
En resumidas cuentas, Twisted Bond es una lectura que empieza muy bien y que con el paso de las paginas va perdiendo puntos, al igual que su personaje principal, al inicio resulta simpatica, luego termina con tu paciencia. Lo recomiendo como lectura de playa o piscina, siempre y cuando no vayas esperando encontrar un Best Seller, de lo contrario, creo que te decepcionara.
2.75 Estrellas!
August 7, 2016
I enjoyed it but something missing
I did enjoy this book I was dyin to know what was goin to happen even though I did find it dragged a lil bit in the middle I was just dyin to know who was causing al the drama that was goin on Noelle Bond's life an what was turning a lil town like Holly Wood upside down
Noelle Bond is a total kick ass woman from bein a cop to now running her own PI company an she was successful she had great people that worked for her she had a excellent family even if her brothers were protective an she had a mad crazy Nonna how just thought she was mad doin her job an alway carrying a gun those things were sexy well that's what her Nonna thought but Noelle didn't care about a man or getting married or even having babies she was happy catch cheating partners it's what her PI company did the most an she was happy until things went a lil crazy when she found a body in a dumpster an this is where Detective Drake Nash comes to annoyin the life out of her they both can't b together for a minute without them wanting to kill each other an the sexual tension was just mad I was dyin for them to just rip each other's clothes off just to release some of it I wanted to slap them sometimes cause the would argue over anything but I wanted them to get together so much they were just alway at each other's throats
I really liked the way the book was written the way the author wrote Noelle's mad Nonna was so good she had me laughing throughout the book an her tryin to fix Noelle up with anyone that had some Italian blood in them was funny I have to say I luvd her character so much an I did like Noelle an Drake but I just found that the book needed a lil more romance I missed a lil an it did drag like I said in the middle I was just dyin to know what was goin on
I am dyin to know what's goin to happen with these to characters so I will carry on with this series an I want more of Noelle an her sexy brothers an the sexy Detective Drake xxx
I did enjoy this book I was dyin to know what was goin to happen even though I did find it dragged a lil bit in the middle I was just dyin to know who was causing al the drama that was goin on Noelle Bond's life an what was turning a lil town like Holly Wood upside down
Noelle Bond is a total kick ass woman from bein a cop to now running her own PI company an she was successful she had great people that worked for her she had a excellent family even if her brothers were protective an she had a mad crazy Nonna how just thought she was mad doin her job an alway carrying a gun those things were sexy well that's what her Nonna thought but Noelle didn't care about a man or getting married or even having babies she was happy catch cheating partners it's what her PI company did the most an she was happy until things went a lil crazy when she found a body in a dumpster an this is where Detective Drake Nash comes to annoyin the life out of her they both can't b together for a minute without them wanting to kill each other an the sexual tension was just mad I was dyin for them to just rip each other's clothes off just to release some of it I wanted to slap them sometimes cause the would argue over anything but I wanted them to get together so much they were just alway at each other's throats
I really liked the way the book was written the way the author wrote Noelle's mad Nonna was so good she had me laughing throughout the book an her tryin to fix Noelle up with anyone that had some Italian blood in them was funny I have to say I luvd her character so much an I did like Noelle an Drake but I just found that the book needed a lil more romance I missed a lil an it did drag like I said in the middle I was just dyin to know what was goin on
I am dyin to know what's goin to happen with these to characters so I will carry on with this series an I want more of Noelle an her sexy brothers an the sexy Detective Drake xxx
March 11, 2017
3.5 stars!
May 5, 2016
I was sick of this book by the time I got to the last 20% Things that were fun at the beginning were so old by the end. Drake was an asshat the whole time(what is is with asshats at the moment TAMLIN??), but I didn't feel like we got enough of their backstory to really justify his behavior, so I mostly just hated him.
Also, the dramatic climax was dull as hell when it could have been SO GOOD. Our heroine left her job in Dallas because she did a bad thing and people died. Again, I don't feel like we got enough of the backstory to justify her behavior as well, but okay.
And the Killer! Why was the killer who the Killer was?! The motivations were dumped on me in a single paragraph and felt flimsy at best. And the heroine sort of just figured it all out. Like, BAM.
I'm not reading on in this series. Okay, bye.
Also, the dramatic climax was dull as hell when it could have been SO GOOD. Our heroine left her job in Dallas because she did a bad thing and people died. Again, I don't feel like we got enough of the backstory to justify her behavior as well, but okay.
And the Killer! Why was the killer who the Killer was?! The motivations were dumped on me in a single paragraph and felt flimsy at best. And the heroine sort of just figured it all out. Like, BAM.
I'm not reading on in this series. Okay, bye.
November 26, 2015
“Drake Nash is my tornado. He’s roaring through my life, ripping apart my days without care or thought, obliterating any control I think I have and twisting it until I’m so out of control that all I can do is get caught up in his whirlwind”
Wow! What a great start to this series! Emma Hart has done it again. Twisted Bond is refreshing, mysterious, full of tension, captivating and will leave you wanting more….
Twisted Bond follows the story of Drake and Noelle. Noelle is a former cop, now turned private investigator, who spends her time catching cheating spouses. That is until a dead body turns up in her dumpster. The last thing she expected was to find herself investigating a murder and having to work alongside her arch nemesis, Detective Drake Nash. Putting the two of them together is like mixing oil and water, they don’t mesh. But, if they ever want to solve this murder, they are going to have to push their differences aside and work together. Sounds easy enough right?!? On the path to find the truth, danger is lurking around every corner. Can Drake and Noelle put their differences aside? Will Noelle be able to solve this crime before it’s too late?
Twisted Bond was such a refreshing read. I was so excited when I read the blurb for this story. I just couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. And let me tell you, I devoured this book. From the moment I started reading it, I could not put it down. I was hooked. The chemistry and tension between Drake and Noelle was electric. They had the whole hate/love relationship down. I couldn’t get enough of the two of them. With quotes like this:
“It’s short and harsh and hot, the kiss is almost bruising in its intensity, and it’s like everything has stopped, the world stilling on its axis. No more ticking clocks, no more wondering about tomorrow or next week or next year. Just now. Here, now. This second. This very moment. This very touch that is equal parts thrilling and terrifying, because no one should be able to make someone feel like there is nothing left in existence but one simple kiss.”
I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. When you put the two of them together, there was never a dull moment. I loved how Independent and feisty Noelle was. She did not hold back. She let you know exactly what she was thinking. And she just loved frustrating Drake. Drake was a great match for Noelle. He didn’t let her get away with anything and wasn’t put off by Noelle’s feisty attitude. I loved watching the two of them interact and the passionate way that they fought with one another.
Twisted Bond is the first book in the Holly Wood Files series and boy, is this series off to a great start. I loved it all, from start to finish. The plot was captivating and the story was well written. I found the characters to be memorable and intriguing. I especially loved Nonna. She was everything that I expect in a meddling, Italian grandma. I couldn’t wait to see how she would “torture” her grandkids next. She was a riot.
I had such a fun time reading this book. I really enjoyed trying to figure out what was going on and who the murderer was. Twisted Bond is an exciting new series that is filled with mystery, suspense, sexual tension and had twists that I didn’t see coming. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book. I definitely recommend checking this book out!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Wow! What a great start to this series! Emma Hart has done it again. Twisted Bond is refreshing, mysterious, full of tension, captivating and will leave you wanting more….
Twisted Bond follows the story of Drake and Noelle. Noelle is a former cop, now turned private investigator, who spends her time catching cheating spouses. That is until a dead body turns up in her dumpster. The last thing she expected was to find herself investigating a murder and having to work alongside her arch nemesis, Detective Drake Nash. Putting the two of them together is like mixing oil and water, they don’t mesh. But, if they ever want to solve this murder, they are going to have to push their differences aside and work together. Sounds easy enough right?!? On the path to find the truth, danger is lurking around every corner. Can Drake and Noelle put their differences aside? Will Noelle be able to solve this crime before it’s too late?
Twisted Bond was such a refreshing read. I was so excited when I read the blurb for this story. I just couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. And let me tell you, I devoured this book. From the moment I started reading it, I could not put it down. I was hooked. The chemistry and tension between Drake and Noelle was electric. They had the whole hate/love relationship down. I couldn’t get enough of the two of them. With quotes like this:
“It’s short and harsh and hot, the kiss is almost bruising in its intensity, and it’s like everything has stopped, the world stilling on its axis. No more ticking clocks, no more wondering about tomorrow or next week or next year. Just now. Here, now. This second. This very moment. This very touch that is equal parts thrilling and terrifying, because no one should be able to make someone feel like there is nothing left in existence but one simple kiss.”
I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. When you put the two of them together, there was never a dull moment. I loved how Independent and feisty Noelle was. She did not hold back. She let you know exactly what she was thinking. And she just loved frustrating Drake. Drake was a great match for Noelle. He didn’t let her get away with anything and wasn’t put off by Noelle’s feisty attitude. I loved watching the two of them interact and the passionate way that they fought with one another.
Twisted Bond is the first book in the Holly Wood Files series and boy, is this series off to a great start. I loved it all, from start to finish. The plot was captivating and the story was well written. I found the characters to be memorable and intriguing. I especially loved Nonna. She was everything that I expect in a meddling, Italian grandma. I couldn’t wait to see how she would “torture” her grandkids next. She was a riot.
I had such a fun time reading this book. I really enjoyed trying to figure out what was going on and who the murderer was. Twisted Bond is an exciting new series that is filled with mystery, suspense, sexual tension and had twists that I didn’t see coming. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book. I definitely recommend checking this book out!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
June 23, 2015
Okay...my only real critism is that the smolder took toooooo long to turn into something "else"...and this is the second read in a row where handcuffs were promised, discussed, threatened and then not produce!!! Ms Hart, I am expected excessive use of handcuffs in Holly Woods Files #2! Also, much more shirtless Drake is required!
Holly Smokes the kisses were described for over 2 pages!!! When I got the goods after like the ENTIRE Book...and it only lasted a page!!! I want MORE!!!!
Great read, great banter, great characters...Thank you my lovely Brandi for the heads up on this delicious book. When, oh, when do I get Brody??? Dev and his proposal sound like a book too!!!
Excited for a new series!
Holly Smokes the kisses were described for over 2 pages!!! When I got the goods after like the ENTIRE Book...and it only lasted a page!!! I want MORE!!!!
Great read, great banter, great characters...Thank you my lovely Brandi for the heads up on this delicious book. When, oh, when do I get Brody??? Dev and his proposal sound like a book too!!!
Excited for a new series!
September 29, 2025
I-a enjoyed-a the book-a!!!
My name is Bond...
Noelle Bond.
Twisted Bond is the first of Emma Hart's Holly Woods Files Series. This book is a mix of Bond(s) and Agatha Christie. But instead of a British hunk with his swanky gadgets and Poirot with his 'little gray cells', we have Noelle and the rest of the Bond family and Nonna!. Yes, I separated Nonna from the Bond family because well, she deserves a separate post for herself!
Oh, oh, oh! and how can I forget DETECTIVE DRAKE NASH!!! *sigh!* The sexual tension throughout the book was so palpable.
From the moment Emma had announced that she was writing a new book that was different from the rest, I literally didn't expect the complete 180. This is not her typical writing style and I have to say I loved how she executed the story!
I was into the book since the first page and I was completely drawn in the mystery that was THE MYSTERY until it was revealed!
When one reads a mystery novel, you expect it to be dry, sarcastic, black and white with a hint of gray, but what you don't expect in a murder mystery is sassy remarks, amazing one-liners. I swear Emma Hart is the queen of sarcastic and sassy remarks.
Oh and Nonna! LOVE HER!! This woman just doesn't deserve a separate mention but also a completely different review altogether!
Noelle is as sassy and sarcastic as her other female characters and Drake, hmm Drake has all the sexy one liners.
Now, the other reason why I LOVED this book was, unlike other murder mysteries I couldn't guess who the killer was until the minute it was revealed! And I loved that! For me a great murder mystery is when it leaves you guessing until the end and even then it leaves you wanting to go back and connect all the dots.
God! The sexual tension between Noelle and Drake was too much. Too palpable. Till the last page, I could just feel the sexual energy between them. But when these two came together it was fireworks! All those, fights, the innuendos, the threats came together perfectly. And mind you there isn't a lot of sex.
Just one actually and I won't tell you where!
I LOVED this book and I cannot wait to read and see what Emma has planned for the second book.
5 Stars!
★ Buy Twisted Bond (Kindle)
★ Buy Twisted Bond (Paperback)
_________________________
For more reviews and recommendations:
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* ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review *
My name is Bond...
Noelle Bond.
Twisted Bond is the first of Emma Hart's Holly Woods Files Series. This book is a mix of Bond(s) and Agatha Christie. But instead of a British hunk with his swanky gadgets and Poirot with his 'little gray cells', we have Noelle and the rest of the Bond family and Nonna!. Yes, I separated Nonna from the Bond family because well, she deserves a separate post for herself!
Oh, oh, oh! and how can I forget DETECTIVE DRAKE NASH!!! *sigh!* The sexual tension throughout the book was so palpable.
From the moment Emma had announced that she was writing a new book that was different from the rest, I literally didn't expect the complete 180. This is not her typical writing style and I have to say I loved how she executed the story!
I was into the book since the first page and I was completely drawn in the mystery that was THE MYSTERY until it was revealed!
When one reads a mystery novel, you expect it to be dry, sarcastic, black and white with a hint of gray, but what you don't expect in a murder mystery is sassy remarks, amazing one-liners. I swear Emma Hart is the queen of sarcastic and sassy remarks.
Oh and Nonna! LOVE HER!! This woman just doesn't deserve a separate mention but also a completely different review altogether!
Noelle is as sassy and sarcastic as her other female characters and Drake, hmm Drake has all the sexy one liners.
"Another threat." He whips his handcuffs out and dangles them in my face.Yes please!
"Want me to use 'em, ma'am?
Now, the other reason why I LOVED this book was, unlike other murder mysteries I couldn't guess who the killer was until the minute it was revealed! And I loved that! For me a great murder mystery is when it leaves you guessing until the end and even then it leaves you wanting to go back and connect all the dots.
"It's short and harsh and hot, the kiss is almost bruising in its intensity, and it's like everything has stopped, the world stilling on its axis. No more ticking clocks, no more wondering about tomorrow or next week and next year. Just now, Here, now. This second. This very moment. This very touch that is equal parts thrilling and terrifying, because no one should be able to make someone feel like there is nothing left in existence but one simple kiss."
God! The sexual tension between Noelle and Drake was too much. Too palpable. Till the last page, I could just feel the sexual energy between them. But when these two came together it was fireworks! All those, fights, the innuendos, the threats came together perfectly. And mind you there isn't a lot of sex.
Just one actually and I won't tell you where!
I LOVED this book and I cannot wait to read and see what Emma has planned for the second book.
5 Stars!
★ Buy Twisted Bond (Kindle)
★ Buy Twisted Bond (Paperback)
_________________________
For more reviews and recommendations:
✦ Facebook Page
✦ Main Blog
* ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review *
March 22, 2017
Twisted Bond is actually the third book I've read by Emma Hart and surprisingly I really enjoyed this one compared to the first two. Tangled Bond is a Romantic/Suspense novel following a PI who gets caught up in a murder scandal when a dead body turns up in her Work Offices' dumpster. However leading the case is the same Police Officer who hates her for shooting him in the foot. Honestly this book is both crazy sexy and hella suspicious. I was gripped from the beginning to end.
June 19, 2015
What the Hell is this ????
Noelle seriously is the most annoying woman I've ever read about,and as you like to mentioned how good you are with a gun, Please shoot yourself in the foot with it...
Noelle seriously is the most annoying woman I've ever read about,and as you like to mentioned how good you are with a gun, Please shoot yourself in the foot with it...
December 7, 2015
I realley enjoyed the characters! Pretty hilarious at times.
October 22, 2016
Walau sudah di rekomendasikan teman selama bertahun-tahun tapi judul "Hollywood" itu memberi getaran yang salah padaku, jadi diri ini nyesel banget udah menunda begitu lama untuk membaca seri kickass dari Emma Hart ini.
Di lahirkan dalam generasi keluarga polisi di Holly Wood (kota kecil di Texas), Noelle bisa dianggap lahir dan besar di kantor polisi. Di antara interaksi ribut tapi mesra keluarga besarnya yang rempong, protektif dan keras kepala (yea bayangkan blasteran Itali Texas), dia menemukan kedamaian dalam karirnya sebagai Private Investigators bagi para pasangan yang berselingkuh. Walau dia rajin banget shopping, memperhatikan banget penampilan, over memanjakan pegawai dan kecanduan cupcake, tapi dia juga keras kepala, badass, tangguh, mandiri dan sangat cerdas.
Temuan mayat di tempat sampah kantornya membuat prioritas kerja Noelle berubah haluan. Hal ini membuat dia harus berhadapan dengan penegak hukum yang bak musuh abadi Noelle, Detektif Drake yang penuh dedikasi, berpenampilan seksi tapi juga super arogan. Kedengaran klise? Tunggu sampai kamu membaca bagaimana interaksi dua manusia ini (ngikik setan).
Alur cerita buku ini termasuk cepat di mana fokus utamanya adalah penyelidikan kasus pembunuhan di atas. Aku suka bagaimana cara Emma menyisipkan potensi romantis diantara Drake dan Noelle di dalam sisi suspense cerita ini secara seimbang. Kita bisa merasakan perkembangan chemistry di antara mereka, tensi seksual yang terbangun dan perang mulut seksi penuh flirt mereka yang bikin ngikik dan bertaburan sarkasme.
Konflik dan penyelesaian kasus suspensnya termasuk sederhana tapi di tulis dengan cara yang gaya yang menarik. Tidak banyak twist yang di berikan di buku pertama ini tapi mampu membuat kita menebak-nebak siapa pelaku sebenarnya dari kasus ini. Pov 1 Noelle tidak menyebalkan karena gadis ini super pede dan jauh dari kata galau. Perasaan dan perkembangan reaksi Drake juga mudah kita tangkap dari mata Noelle yang selalu punya ide untuk mendorong pria ini ke titik batas pertahanannya. Selain 2 karakter utama sama kuat yang bikin gemes, para figurannya juga kocak untuk di kenal walau yah kadang tampil tidak sesuai umur.
Seri ini akan mengangkat satu kasus tiap buku dan perkembangan romance yang menjanjikan dari Noelle dan Drake. Buku ini unik, lucu, menghibur dan jauh dari kata membosankan.
My rating :
Star : 3.8/5
Bikini : 2/5
Di lahirkan dalam generasi keluarga polisi di Holly Wood (kota kecil di Texas), Noelle bisa dianggap lahir dan besar di kantor polisi. Di antara interaksi ribut tapi mesra keluarga besarnya yang rempong, protektif dan keras kepala (yea bayangkan blasteran Itali Texas), dia menemukan kedamaian dalam karirnya sebagai Private Investigators bagi para pasangan yang berselingkuh. Walau dia rajin banget shopping, memperhatikan banget penampilan, over memanjakan pegawai dan kecanduan cupcake, tapi dia juga keras kepala, badass, tangguh, mandiri dan sangat cerdas.
Temuan mayat di tempat sampah kantornya membuat prioritas kerja Noelle berubah haluan. Hal ini membuat dia harus berhadapan dengan penegak hukum yang bak musuh abadi Noelle, Detektif Drake yang penuh dedikasi, berpenampilan seksi tapi juga super arogan. Kedengaran klise? Tunggu sampai kamu membaca bagaimana interaksi dua manusia ini (ngikik setan).
Alur cerita buku ini termasuk cepat di mana fokus utamanya adalah penyelidikan kasus pembunuhan di atas. Aku suka bagaimana cara Emma menyisipkan potensi romantis diantara Drake dan Noelle di dalam sisi suspense cerita ini secara seimbang. Kita bisa merasakan perkembangan chemistry di antara mereka, tensi seksual yang terbangun dan perang mulut seksi penuh flirt mereka yang bikin ngikik dan bertaburan sarkasme.
Konflik dan penyelesaian kasus suspensnya termasuk sederhana tapi di tulis dengan cara yang gaya yang menarik. Tidak banyak twist yang di berikan di buku pertama ini tapi mampu membuat kita menebak-nebak siapa pelaku sebenarnya dari kasus ini. Pov 1 Noelle tidak menyebalkan karena gadis ini super pede dan jauh dari kata galau. Perasaan dan perkembangan reaksi Drake juga mudah kita tangkap dari mata Noelle yang selalu punya ide untuk mendorong pria ini ke titik batas pertahanannya. Selain 2 karakter utama sama kuat yang bikin gemes, para figurannya juga kocak untuk di kenal walau yah kadang tampil tidak sesuai umur.
Seri ini akan mengangkat satu kasus tiap buku dan perkembangan romance yang menjanjikan dari Noelle dan Drake. Buku ini unik, lucu, menghibur dan jauh dari kata membosankan.
My rating :
Star : 3.8/5
Bikini : 2/5
August 23, 2015
******************** Reviewed for Our Kindle Konfessions ************************
I'm still trying to make sense of my thoughts on this book. It's very different from Emma's other books as in its very much based around the story of the murders, the love interest is definitely secondary although he threading into the story their attraction is a love/ hate slow burn kinda of attraction, don't go excepting sex scenes aplenty it's not that kind of book.
The story centres around Noelle Bond, an ex cop who has returned from Dallas to run her own P.I company. She lives the cop life as her grandfather, father, and her three brothers are all cops ! Most of her work now is mostly made up of catch cheating spouses. Until a dead body is found dumped on Noelle's land, forcing her to go head to head with the sexy Detective Drake Nash to solve the case. They have this love - hate relationship, one that sizzles just waiting for a match to light it and then boom ! But of course neither wants to give to this attraction as both are stubborn, strong willed and always believe they are right. So as they race to solve this case and find the murderer will it lead them to admit their growing attraction. What's that saying - there's a thin line between love and hate !
As I said at the beginning this is a very different direction for Emma and if you are excepting sizzling sex scenes then you are going to be sorely disappointed but what you will get is a well written, murder mystery with plenty of twists and turn to surprise and keep you guessing, a badass PI and a sizzling hot detective.
Drake Nash is one hot alpha cop who tries so hard to stay away from Noelle. At times I felt Noelle a little annoying especially with the constant need for cupcakes which for me wore a little thin at times. Loved the interfering character of Nonna and her match making attempts also loved the fact that I didn't guess who the murderer was - I hate it when you know who done it half way through - so well done Emma ! This book is a good start to a new series, I'm excited to see where it goes next .
I'm still trying to make sense of my thoughts on this book. It's very different from Emma's other books as in its very much based around the story of the murders, the love interest is definitely secondary although he threading into the story their attraction is a love/ hate slow burn kinda of attraction, don't go excepting sex scenes aplenty it's not that kind of book.
The story centres around Noelle Bond, an ex cop who has returned from Dallas to run her own P.I company. She lives the cop life as her grandfather, father, and her three brothers are all cops ! Most of her work now is mostly made up of catch cheating spouses. Until a dead body is found dumped on Noelle's land, forcing her to go head to head with the sexy Detective Drake Nash to solve the case. They have this love - hate relationship, one that sizzles just waiting for a match to light it and then boom ! But of course neither wants to give to this attraction as both are stubborn, strong willed and always believe they are right. So as they race to solve this case and find the murderer will it lead them to admit their growing attraction. What's that saying - there's a thin line between love and hate !
As I said at the beginning this is a very different direction for Emma and if you are excepting sizzling sex scenes then you are going to be sorely disappointed but what you will get is a well written, murder mystery with plenty of twists and turn to surprise and keep you guessing, a badass PI and a sizzling hot detective.
Drake Nash is one hot alpha cop who tries so hard to stay away from Noelle. At times I felt Noelle a little annoying especially with the constant need for cupcakes which for me wore a little thin at times. Loved the interfering character of Nonna and her match making attempts also loved the fact that I didn't guess who the murderer was - I hate it when you know who done it half way through - so well done Emma ! This book is a good start to a new series, I'm excited to see where it goes next .
October 1, 2019
**4.5 stars!**
2016 review:
I loved this book. Holy cow, Noelle was freaking hilarious. The conversations between all the characters cracked me up the entire time. The tension between Drake and Noelle was unreal. I can't wait to start book 2, don't know when I am, but I'm excited regardless!
2019 review:
Wow, it's been 3 years since I read this book and to be completely honest, I forgot a lot of what happened. I've read hundreds of books since. But I'm excited to continue the series for real this time!
2016 review:
I loved this book. Holy cow, Noelle was freaking hilarious. The conversations between all the characters cracked me up the entire time. The tension between Drake and Noelle was unreal. I can't wait to start book 2, don't know when I am, but I'm excited regardless!
2019 review:
Wow, it's been 3 years since I read this book and to be completely honest, I forgot a lot of what happened. I've read hundreds of books since. But I'm excited to continue the series for real this time!
July 11, 2018
Omg, how had I never heard of this series before?!
This was my first book by Emma Hart and it certainly won't be the last (I already bought book 2 to read. Haha).
It was so much fun and had a fantastic storyline that kept me on my toes. I loved the simmering romance between Drake and Noelle and didn't mind that the storyline was absolutely the main focus.
They can't stand to be around each other but can't stay away either. Their banter was hilarious and their chemistry was crazy hot!
"Are you threatening me, Noelle?”
“You bet your fine ass I am, Drake. Now, get out of my building before I have my two-hundred-and-eighty-pound ex-marine help you remember where the door is.”
***
"You have five seconds to take it back before I make good on my threat, Noelle.”
“You have five seconds to get your ass the hell out of my goddamned office before I break your kneecaps.”
***
“You know somethin’? I don’t like you very much.” He leans in the barest amount. “In fact, more often than not, I can’t fuckin’ stand bein’ around you. But there happens to be a part of me that likes you a whole fuckin’ lot. And that part of me is real convincing. ”
***
'Drake Nash inside me is the cruelest kind of perfection. His kiss is the most delightful kind of pleasure. His skin against mine is the maddest kind of insanity.'
I cannot wait to read the next one!
This was my first book by Emma Hart and it certainly won't be the last (I already bought book 2 to read. Haha).
It was so much fun and had a fantastic storyline that kept me on my toes. I loved the simmering romance between Drake and Noelle and didn't mind that the storyline was absolutely the main focus.
They can't stand to be around each other but can't stay away either. Their banter was hilarious and their chemistry was crazy hot!
"Are you threatening me, Noelle?”
“You bet your fine ass I am, Drake. Now, get out of my building before I have my two-hundred-and-eighty-pound ex-marine help you remember where the door is.”
***
"You have five seconds to take it back before I make good on my threat, Noelle.”
“You have five seconds to get your ass the hell out of my goddamned office before I break your kneecaps.”
***
“You know somethin’? I don’t like you very much.” He leans in the barest amount. “In fact, more often than not, I can’t fuckin’ stand bein’ around you. But there happens to be a part of me that likes you a whole fuckin’ lot. And that part of me is real convincing. ”
***
'Drake Nash inside me is the cruelest kind of perfection. His kiss is the most delightful kind of pleasure. His skin against mine is the maddest kind of insanity.'
I cannot wait to read the next one!
July 3, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. There isn't anything I wanted to change except for the fact I didn't want the story to end. I don't think I've laughed this much or this hard while reading a romantic suspense novel since I read One for the Money by Janet Evanovitch. In fact, if you're on the fence and you're looking for a comparison, go with that one, but hotter.
If you've ever read a book by Emma Hart before, and I have, you know she writes great romantic tension. This book had it in spades. Noelle and Drake were unbelievable. Their verbal sparring and attempts to out do each other while working on a case were phenomenal. I loved Noelle's attitude towards her job. She worked hard and loved it. She's one tough woman and so fierce!
I loved Noelle's interactions with her family. It was clear how much they loved one another, even when they bickered and teased each other. I absolutely loved Noelle's Nonna. That woman was mostly infuriating, but she was so entertaining! Her machinations to get Noelle a man were inspired.
Another aspect of this book done really well was the suspense. I was on the edge of my seat while reading and trying to find out what was going to happen next. At no point during the story was I able to judge the identity of the killer. I loved how each page brought something new to the case.
I'm so glad there's another book coming. I don't think I can ever get enough of Noelle, Drake, and her family. I'm really looking forward to more shenanigans and laughter from them. I really think this is the best book Emma Hart has written so far. If you're looking to read something different, something that'll make you laugh, pant, and get your adrenaline up, this book is for you!
If you've ever read a book by Emma Hart before, and I have, you know she writes great romantic tension. This book had it in spades. Noelle and Drake were unbelievable. Their verbal sparring and attempts to out do each other while working on a case were phenomenal. I loved Noelle's attitude towards her job. She worked hard and loved it. She's one tough woman and so fierce!
I loved Noelle's interactions with her family. It was clear how much they loved one another, even when they bickered and teased each other. I absolutely loved Noelle's Nonna. That woman was mostly infuriating, but she was so entertaining! Her machinations to get Noelle a man were inspired.
Another aspect of this book done really well was the suspense. I was on the edge of my seat while reading and trying to find out what was going to happen next. At no point during the story was I able to judge the identity of the killer. I loved how each page brought something new to the case.
I'm so glad there's another book coming. I don't think I can ever get enough of Noelle, Drake, and her family. I'm really looking forward to more shenanigans and laughter from them. I really think this is the best book Emma Hart has written so far. If you're looking to read something different, something that'll make you laugh, pant, and get your adrenaline up, this book is for you!
June 11, 2015
Finding the right words to say how I felt about this book aren't coming easy. They never seem like the right ones.
This isn't a typical Emma Hart book. But as soon as you started reading it you knew it was an Emma original.
Noelle Bond is a PI with a life-long dream of being a real Bond girl and a deep love for cupcakes. She has all the right ingredients to be a sassy, take no sh*t heroine. I love her attitude that doesn't ever give up. Her bada*s gene is something to be afraid of!!
Drake Nash. Oh. Drake! He certainly has a take-no-prisoners personality and it's one that 100% clashes with Noelle. The sexual tension between these two just grows with every conversation (well, argument!) they have and makes it a joy to read!
There is no cliffhanger but my goodness you'll be wanting to read Tangled Bond yesterday to see where their tempestuous "relationship" will go!
The storyline in which Drake and Noelle find themselves working very closely together is cleverly written and had me guessing at every turn - your classic whodunnit. (NB it wasn't who I thought it was!)
Well done, Emma. Now. The rest of the series, pleases!
This isn't a typical Emma Hart book. But as soon as you started reading it you knew it was an Emma original.
Noelle Bond is a PI with a life-long dream of being a real Bond girl and a deep love for cupcakes. She has all the right ingredients to be a sassy, take no sh*t heroine. I love her attitude that doesn't ever give up. Her bada*s gene is something to be afraid of!!
Drake Nash. Oh. Drake! He certainly has a take-no-prisoners personality and it's one that 100% clashes with Noelle. The sexual tension between these two just grows with every conversation (well, argument!) they have and makes it a joy to read!
There is no cliffhanger but my goodness you'll be wanting to read Tangled Bond yesterday to see where their tempestuous "relationship" will go!
The storyline in which Drake and Noelle find themselves working very closely together is cleverly written and had me guessing at every turn - your classic whodunnit. (NB it wasn't who I thought it was!)
Well done, Emma. Now. The rest of the series, pleases!
June 23, 2015
Ok the only reason I'm giving this 3 stars is because it was actually really funny! The sexual tension was through the roof. They acted like they hated each other basically the whole book. And actually we didn't get any sex until around 97%!!! Even then she still thinks she hates him. Now I do believe this series continues with them so hopefully their romance heats up because you can tell that they will be explosive. I'll probably read the next one.
September 9, 2017
Okay, okay. So this book has murder and dead bodies and all sorts of other fun stuff, but HOLY WOW the way Noelle and Drake snipe at one another absolutely made me giggle. They have a very passionate form of verbal foreplay and they don't even seem to realize they're doing it until it's pointed out REPEATEDLY. It was hilarious. HILARIOUS.
Their fighting and sparring and sizzling glances made this book for me.
Which isn't to say the murder and other mayhem wasn't good, because it was. I'm just smitten with their sexy fighting.
Beyond that, though, we have the aforementioned dead bodies. As the clues start to pile up, Noelle realizes there's more going on then it looks like on the surface. So she flirt-fights with Drake. She throws in a few glares and steamy looks. The two of them kinda, sorta team up to figure out what's going on.
Kinda, sorta.
Anywho. Fun, sexy, a touch of the danger, and lots of that flirt-fighting. THOSE TWO, MAN. They were amusing to watch.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Their fighting and sparring and sizzling glances made this book for me.
Which isn't to say the murder and other mayhem wasn't good, because it was. I'm just smitten with their sexy fighting.
Beyond that, though, we have the aforementioned dead bodies. As the clues start to pile up, Noelle realizes there's more going on then it looks like on the surface. So she flirt-fights with Drake. She throws in a few glares and steamy looks. The two of them kinda, sorta team up to figure out what's going on.
Kinda, sorta.
Anywho. Fun, sexy, a touch of the danger, and lots of that flirt-fighting. THOSE TWO, MAN. They were amusing to watch.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
March 28, 2019
Originally posted on NallaReads.com!
Murder, romance, and sassy attitude. I've been reading Emma Hart's rom-coms for almost a year now and was excited to see one of her older series get a facelift. But since reading Twisted Bond I'm now HOOKED on Hart's ability to tell a murder mystery that keeps on giving. Meet Noelle Bond; former cop turned private investigator in her hometown, she's quickly making a name for herself in the world of catching adulterers. It's a quiet PI life, until a body ends up in her company's dumpster. And it just so happens to be related to one of her previous cases and she's ow entwined with the case more than she wanted to be. Add in the the decedent's husband also hired her to work alongside the police and it causes for some tough territorial investigating.
You would think a PI would work well with the police, but Noelle has a hate-love relationship with one Detective Drake Nash. Dark, mysterious, and rude as can be...and he's also hot as Hades. Begrudgingly these two have to end up working together when a SECOND body ends up at Noelle's feet. It looks like someone is trying to pin murders on our PI but digging in to her past cases. Drake, while fighting his own attraction to Noelle, has to decide if she's a suspect or an ally to the department. But as much as he'd like to throw her in handcuffs (oh yeah!) he has to work with her and not against her to stop the murders happening in their town.
This is definitely a romance steeped in mystery. While Drake and Noelle fight their attraction the entire book #slowburn, they focus more on solving the case than finding their next fix. I felt like it was the perfect combination of fiction/murder mystery with the right amount of romance. Not too much to drown out either of the main character's goals, but enough to make you swoon and hope the two will just bone already LOL. I know I'll want the rest of the series on my TBR soon because I'm loving this dynamic!
Murder, romance, and sassy attitude. I've been reading Emma Hart's rom-coms for almost a year now and was excited to see one of her older series get a facelift. But since reading Twisted Bond I'm now HOOKED on Hart's ability to tell a murder mystery that keeps on giving. Meet Noelle Bond; former cop turned private investigator in her hometown, she's quickly making a name for herself in the world of catching adulterers. It's a quiet PI life, until a body ends up in her company's dumpster. And it just so happens to be related to one of her previous cases and she's ow entwined with the case more than she wanted to be. Add in the the decedent's husband also hired her to work alongside the police and it causes for some tough territorial investigating.
You would think a PI would work well with the police, but Noelle has a hate-love relationship with one Detective Drake Nash. Dark, mysterious, and rude as can be...and he's also hot as Hades. Begrudgingly these two have to end up working together when a SECOND body ends up at Noelle's feet. It looks like someone is trying to pin murders on our PI but digging in to her past cases. Drake, while fighting his own attraction to Noelle, has to decide if she's a suspect or an ally to the department. But as much as he'd like to throw her in handcuffs (oh yeah!) he has to work with her and not against her to stop the murders happening in their town.
This is definitely a romance steeped in mystery. While Drake and Noelle fight their attraction the entire book #slowburn, they focus more on solving the case than finding their next fix. I felt like it was the perfect combination of fiction/murder mystery with the right amount of romance. Not too much to drown out either of the main character's goals, but enough to make you swoon and hope the two will just bone already LOL. I know I'll want the rest of the series on my TBR soon because I'm loving this dynamic!
October 15, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read from this author. First off, I absolutely loved the banter between the MC’s. They clearly had some sexual tension, but refused to follow through with the attraction. I also enjoyed the mystery of this series. I couldn’t put together the pieces, which kept me wanting to read more.
March 3, 2016
Originally posted at SmexyBooks- http://smexybooks.com/2016/03/review-...
Recently I was discussing romantic comedies with some friends, and I was recommended this series by Has from the blog Book Pushers. Similar to Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series Emma Hart delivers the same strong family oriented storyline chalked full of humor, mystery, over the top dramatics, and a strong antagonistic romance but without the dreaded love triangle and a competent heroine.
I enjoyed Twisted Bond though I did have a some issues. Hilarious hijinks galore as Hart blends a sexually tense VERY slow burning romance (slow as in there is no resolution to the romance element) with an intriguing multi-faceted whodunnit jam-packed with mayhem and murder. Standing in the middle of all this is Bond. Noelle Bond. PI extraordinaire. Noelle is a heroine you can’t help but enjoy all the while rolling your eyes at her antics. Intelligent, snarky, full of life, strong-willed, and alpha to the core. She doesn’t take any flack from anyone and always says exactly what’s on her mind. Single and loving it, the only man who makes this gun touting, cupcake devouring, clothes horse burn with lust is her worse enemy.
Drake Nash.
Detective Nash is the lead homicide detective for Holly Wood sheriff’s department. He despises Noelle and makes no bones about it. An alpha male from head to toe, he has a very low opinion of women that spills over onto Noelle frequently. When his murder investigation coincides with her client investigation, he goes to extreme lengths to keep her out of the loop, forgetting she has three brothers on the police force. Watching Noella and Drake verbally battle one another will keep you in stitches though at times it got a little to verbally violent (especially on Drake’s end). They volley insults at one another with the skill and speed of professional pitcher; zinging them left and right until the tension becomes so unbearable that kissing each other is their only recourse.
“I’d advise you not to work against me, I have no problems putting you in cuffs.”
And I have no problem spending the night in lock-up for impaling your penis with my stiletto.”
An eccentric cast of supporting characters only adds to the overall appeal. Noelle’s employees are a lively bunch whose antics (and cupcake demands) keep Noelle busy while she solves crimes and evades her overbearing Nonna who is convinced that Noelle will only be happy when she is married and pushing out babies for her husband. Preferably an italian catholic husband. Noelle’s brother and father have her back in every way; especially when a certain detective crosses a line that leaves the men in her family up in arms.
“Remember Officer Bond, that I’m your superior.”
“Remember, Detective Nash, that you’re not my superior, and I’m more than certain that mine will accept me defending my sister after the way you treated her last night. So, until you are my superior, step back and stay the hell away from my her.”
“The way I treated her? I was doing my job, Bond, and I was utilizing the resources available to me.”
[…]
“La famiglia e tutto, “ Devin says, ignoring me entirely. “Family is everything. Do your job, but don’t fuck with my sister while you do it. She’s the only woman in town who demands respect, and by fuck, Detective, I’ll die makin’ sure she gets it from everyone who thinks they’re above it.”
The mystery is a solid device, moving fast and sure as Hart gives us plenty of clues, evidence, and misdirection to make sure we never see this villain coming. The ending resolves the mystery but leaves readers unsure of the path Noelle and Drake will be taking.
Overall I enjoyed this first installment. The strength of the story is the characters. Noelle and her family are over the top entertaining and Hart does a fantastic job on the mystery and it’s development. As I stated earlier, I did have some issues. At times I felt Drake’s and Noelle’s bantering became abusive-especially on Drake’s part. I found his reasons for the intense dislike he harbored for her bordering on ridiculous. I could understand Noelle’s dislike as it was in reaction to Drake’s treatment of her but we really don’t get a clear reason to exactly why Drake almost hates her. I found the shooting of the foot excuse a bit too mild for his actions towards her. Also, the repetitive nature of the author telling us how great Noelle was with guns annoying. I want to add I have already read book two, Tangled Bonds, so I know that both of the main issues are toned down considerably. YAY.
Grade: B-
Recently I was discussing romantic comedies with some friends, and I was recommended this series by Has from the blog Book Pushers. Similar to Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series Emma Hart delivers the same strong family oriented storyline chalked full of humor, mystery, over the top dramatics, and a strong antagonistic romance but without the dreaded love triangle and a competent heroine.
I enjoyed Twisted Bond though I did have a some issues. Hilarious hijinks galore as Hart blends a sexually tense VERY slow burning romance (slow as in there is no resolution to the romance element) with an intriguing multi-faceted whodunnit jam-packed with mayhem and murder. Standing in the middle of all this is Bond. Noelle Bond. PI extraordinaire. Noelle is a heroine you can’t help but enjoy all the while rolling your eyes at her antics. Intelligent, snarky, full of life, strong-willed, and alpha to the core. She doesn’t take any flack from anyone and always says exactly what’s on her mind. Single and loving it, the only man who makes this gun touting, cupcake devouring, clothes horse burn with lust is her worse enemy.
Drake Nash.
Detective Nash is the lead homicide detective for Holly Wood sheriff’s department. He despises Noelle and makes no bones about it. An alpha male from head to toe, he has a very low opinion of women that spills over onto Noelle frequently. When his murder investigation coincides with her client investigation, he goes to extreme lengths to keep her out of the loop, forgetting she has three brothers on the police force. Watching Noella and Drake verbally battle one another will keep you in stitches though at times it got a little to verbally violent (especially on Drake’s end). They volley insults at one another with the skill and speed of professional pitcher; zinging them left and right until the tension becomes so unbearable that kissing each other is their only recourse.
“I’d advise you not to work against me, I have no problems putting you in cuffs.”
And I have no problem spending the night in lock-up for impaling your penis with my stiletto.”
An eccentric cast of supporting characters only adds to the overall appeal. Noelle’s employees are a lively bunch whose antics (and cupcake demands) keep Noelle busy while she solves crimes and evades her overbearing Nonna who is convinced that Noelle will only be happy when she is married and pushing out babies for her husband. Preferably an italian catholic husband. Noelle’s brother and father have her back in every way; especially when a certain detective crosses a line that leaves the men in her family up in arms.
“Remember Officer Bond, that I’m your superior.”
“Remember, Detective Nash, that you’re not my superior, and I’m more than certain that mine will accept me defending my sister after the way you treated her last night. So, until you are my superior, step back and stay the hell away from my her.”
“The way I treated her? I was doing my job, Bond, and I was utilizing the resources available to me.”
[…]
“La famiglia e tutto, “ Devin says, ignoring me entirely. “Family is everything. Do your job, but don’t fuck with my sister while you do it. She’s the only woman in town who demands respect, and by fuck, Detective, I’ll die makin’ sure she gets it from everyone who thinks they’re above it.”
The mystery is a solid device, moving fast and sure as Hart gives us plenty of clues, evidence, and misdirection to make sure we never see this villain coming. The ending resolves the mystery but leaves readers unsure of the path Noelle and Drake will be taking.
Overall I enjoyed this first installment. The strength of the story is the characters. Noelle and her family are over the top entertaining and Hart does a fantastic job on the mystery and it’s development. As I stated earlier, I did have some issues. At times I felt Drake’s and Noelle’s bantering became abusive-especially on Drake’s part. I found his reasons for the intense dislike he harbored for her bordering on ridiculous. I could understand Noelle’s dislike as it was in reaction to Drake’s treatment of her but we really don’t get a clear reason to exactly why Drake almost hates her. I found the shooting of the foot excuse a bit too mild for his actions towards her. Also, the repetitive nature of the author telling us how great Noelle was with guns annoying. I want to add I have already read book two, Tangled Bonds, so I know that both of the main issues are toned down considerably. YAY.
Grade: B-
April 2, 2023
I kept reading because I wanted to know who was the murderer but the FMC and MMC were so damn annoying with their arguing and I just didn't like them very much.
February 26, 2018
DNF. Stopped reading at like page 20, when the “Italian nonna” of the heroine said “so un sacco di veleni”. I mean, ma che cazzo vuol dire? If you don’t speak Italian, don’t write a book with Italian characters. It’s not rocket science. American authors seem to try really hard to include foreign cultures to their stories, while at the same time never bothering to actually RESEARCH anything about said cultures. The fact that the h kept saying that she’s Italian, so she’s supposed to find a nice catholic boy and settle down is offensive. I don’t know how it works in the US, but as a 23 year old Italian girl (Italian girl = Italian-speaking person, born an raised in the Country, not someone whose great-grandfather left Sicily 100 years ago) and as an ATHEIST, I have never been pressured to get married. It just doesn’t work like that. Yes, there are catholics in Italy. No, they’re not fanatics. Nobody gives a fuck whether you get married or not. We’re not in 1912 anymore.
Yeah I know that’s not the main point of the book, but honestly I can’t keep reading a story when 99% of the premises are based on ignorant stereotypes.
P.S. @ dear author: if an Italian person tells you how to cook pasta, you don’t complain and assume to know better, you just shut up and learn.
P.P.S. I’m starting to see a pattern on my Goodreads reviews. I’m suddenly like the Avanger of Italianità, trying to protect the Italianess (?) from ignorant authors.
Yeah I know that’s not the main point of the book, but honestly I can’t keep reading a story when 99% of the premises are based on ignorant stereotypes.
P.S. @ dear author: if an Italian person tells you how to cook pasta, you don’t complain and assume to know better, you just shut up and learn.
P.P.S. I’m starting to see a pattern on my Goodreads reviews. I’m suddenly like the Avanger of Italianità, trying to protect the Italianess (?) from ignorant authors.
June 26, 2015
Sassy, kick-ass, mystery, hot guy, stubborn girl, AWESOME READ!
Noelle, a 28 year old private investigator and ex-cop finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation after finding a dead body in her work dumpster. Dead set on not letting this phase her work space she works on the case herself...because who better to solve the mystery than an Italian feisty yet underestimated woman?
But by becoming part of the investigation she's constantly bumping into Detective Drake Nash. A pain in her ass...an extremely attractive, drop dead yummy pain her ass. And he's dead set on charging Noelle for some made up crime and putting her ass in jail to keep her out of his investigation.
Drake would be like "Stay the f*ck away from this case..."
and Noelle would politely go...
Two very good investigators who clash on every turn...recipe for a heated and hot disaster.
Their chemistry was off the charts and their interaction was hilarious! Noelle with her constant sass and 'f*ck you' attitude and Drake with his charm and alpha male tendencies...GAH!
Noelle, a 28 year old private investigator and ex-cop finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation after finding a dead body in her work dumpster. Dead set on not letting this phase her work space she works on the case herself...because who better to solve the mystery than an Italian feisty yet underestimated woman?
But by becoming part of the investigation she's constantly bumping into Detective Drake Nash. A pain in her ass...an extremely attractive, drop dead yummy pain her ass. And he's dead set on charging Noelle for some made up crime and putting her ass in jail to keep her out of his investigation.
Drake would be like "Stay the f*ck away from this case..."
and Noelle would politely go...
Two very good investigators who clash on every turn...recipe for a heated and hot disaster.
Their chemistry was off the charts and their interaction was hilarious! Noelle with her constant sass and 'f*ck you' attitude and Drake with his charm and alpha male tendencies...GAH!
March 10, 2016
This was an ok book. Noelle Bond is a strong, and intelligent and independent woman. She holds her own in a male dominated field she has good instincts which are always right. Drake Nash is a hot sexy and very arrogant and the chemistry between these two was very good. One day after lunch, a dead body is found in the dumpster located on the property of Bond P.I. Suddenly, Noelle and her P.I. team are trading in the usual married cheater case for something a bit more sinister. The issue arises when Detective Drake Nash walks onto the scene. Sharing a familiar past due to their law enforcement backgrounds doesn’t mean these two get along. While they’re busy bumping heads and tossing around sexual innuendos, the bodies begin to pile up and a connection starts to link the victims together. I don't normally read a lot of thrillers and suspense, but I have read this author before and thought that this book would be a nice change from the other books that I read. I felt that the relationship could have been better developed but overall it was an ok read. The book was written with no errors in grammar or spelling.
July 19, 2015
First of all, the splendid thing about Twisted Bonds is thats its a fine blend of sumptuous romance & mindboggling at time frustrating murder mystery.It the kind of a plot you usually don't get in a single package as we know some adults novel tend to just over do romance & have less focus on the wholeness of the plot itself.
Twisted Bonds maintains tenacious grip over all its elements the mystery,suspence and romance .Its incredible having two totally badass equally hot protogonists Noelle and Drake, What I liked about Noelle was her being headstrong, a lil rowdy and yet sexy investigator.And Drake the swelteringly sexy detective is too hard to handle. I love the tantalizing sexual tension and mischievous old nemesis relationship they shared.
But, I still think the murder mystery plot itself could have been a lil more crisp, I thought there were too many speculative angles given to the case itself which kind of bugged me.Overall, I enjoyed it!
Twisted Bonds maintains tenacious grip over all its elements the mystery,suspence and romance .Its incredible having two totally badass equally hot protogonists Noelle and Drake, What I liked about Noelle was her being headstrong, a lil rowdy and yet sexy investigator.And Drake the swelteringly sexy detective is too hard to handle. I love the tantalizing sexual tension and mischievous old nemesis relationship they shared.
But, I still think the murder mystery plot itself could have been a lil more crisp, I thought there were too many speculative angles given to the case itself which kind of bugged me.Overall, I enjoyed it!
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