What do you think?
Rate this book
U.S. Marshals #5
Locked and Loaded
With a rock-hard body and steel blue eyes, Mason Decker is about to become the U.S. Marshals’ newest recruit. But one last undercover job with a straitlaced attorney will test him to his limits . . .
Charlotte Cahill intends to take down an infamous diamond smuggler on the FBI’s Most Wanted list—and she intends to do it by the book. That won’t be easy with the cocky new temporary deputy on her task force. Mason Decker feels like trouble, especially when his cool gaze wanders across her hot body . . .
After his time as a Customs officer, Decker has enough experience hanging out with criminals to know that working undercover means following your instincts, not the rules. It doesn’t take long for him to lock horns with Cahill. But when the sexy assistant U.S. attorney is accidentally dragged out of her orderly world and into the turn-on-a-dime tension of Decker’s deceptive games, she’ll find that nothing is as seductive as playing a new role . . .
Praise for Mandy Baxter’s U.S. Marshals series
“A little bit of suspense and a whole lot of passion make this the perfect read for adventurous romance fans.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Fast-paced and full of heat, this is romantic suspense done right!”—Julie Ann Walker
“The perfect mix of steam and on‑the‑edge‑of‑your‑seat suspense. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.”—Tracey Garvis Graves
“Page‑turning, rip‑roaring action.”—Publishers Weekly
Charlotte Cahill intends to take down an infamous diamond smuggler on the FBI’s Most Wanted list—and she intends to do it by the book. That won’t be easy with the cocky new temporary deputy on her task force. Mason Decker feels like trouble, especially when his cool gaze wanders across her hot body . . .
After his time as a Customs officer, Decker has enough experience hanging out with criminals to know that working undercover means following your instincts, not the rules. It doesn’t take long for him to lock horns with Cahill. But when the sexy assistant U.S. attorney is accidentally dragged out of her orderly world and into the turn-on-a-dime tension of Decker’s deceptive games, she’ll find that nothing is as seductive as playing a new role . . .
Praise for Mandy Baxter’s U.S. Marshals series
“A little bit of suspense and a whole lot of passion make this the perfect read for adventurous romance fans.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Fast-paced and full of heat, this is romantic suspense done right!”—Julie Ann Walker
“The perfect mix of steam and on‑the‑edge‑of‑your‑seat suspense. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.”—Tracey Garvis Graves
“Page‑turning, rip‑roaring action.”—Publishers Weekly
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 27, 2016
48 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Baxter
20 books159 followersMandy Baxter lives in rural Idaho. She’s a part-time pet wrangler, a full-time sun worshiper, and only goes out into the cold when coerced. She loves black clothes, pink appliances and thinks junk food should be a recognized food group. In the summer, she can be found sitting by the lake, enjoying the view from her dock.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 14, 2016
Great story that explores unconventional family dynamics and the gray areas between black and white. Charlie and Mason end up undercover trying to find more information on a powerful group. As they spend time together, the attraction between them increases. As individuals, they each experience growth and show depth. As a couple, they seem to represent a contrasting element to one another that just weaves itself cohesively into their fabric. In the bedroom, these two are so very sexy. Seriously hot. The plot was very interesting and well paced. The writing was excellent. The secondary characters definitely piqued my interest and were not on any way predictable. All in all a great read and a series I plan on continuing to follow. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing, despite h having to flirt w OM for the mission. Neither were Vs. no rape or abuse.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2016
LOCKED AND LOADED is easily the best in the U.S. Marshals series by Mandy Baxter. Right from the get-go it snatches your attention and never lets go. Mason Decker is a treat for all the women out there who like broody alpha males. He’s the U.S. Marshal’s newest recruit, but Mason still has a lot to prove before he can be considered one of them.
His first assignment involves taking down an infamous diamond smuggler who also happens to be his “brother”. Mason’s personal relationship with the bad guy will come in handy, and he is using every advantage he can to take down this man.
Luckily, he has the help of Charlotte Cahill, a whip-smart attorney who has just landed herself right in the middle of the biggest case of her life. Charlie isn’t used to the mind games that these men play, but she’s right there with them, putting on a cool façade that fools many. I loved both Mason and Charlie individually, so it was really easy for me to fall in love with them as a couple. Upon their first meeting, they actually hate each other, but that only adds to the appeal when they are working side by side to take this diamond smuggler down.
I don’t have a single complaint about this book. The banter is great, the sexual tension is there, but most of all, I LOVED the case they were working on. The whole diamond thing had a touch of sexiness to it that only complemented the romance. And I have to say, Baxter’s heroes in this series continue to get better. It makes me want to claim all of them for myself! Trust me when I say this is a must read!
His first assignment involves taking down an infamous diamond smuggler who also happens to be his “brother”. Mason’s personal relationship with the bad guy will come in handy, and he is using every advantage he can to take down this man.
Luckily, he has the help of Charlotte Cahill, a whip-smart attorney who has just landed herself right in the middle of the biggest case of her life. Charlie isn’t used to the mind games that these men play, but she’s right there with them, putting on a cool façade that fools many. I loved both Mason and Charlie individually, so it was really easy for me to fall in love with them as a couple. Upon their first meeting, they actually hate each other, but that only adds to the appeal when they are working side by side to take this diamond smuggler down.
I don’t have a single complaint about this book. The banter is great, the sexual tension is there, but most of all, I LOVED the case they were working on. The whole diamond thing had a touch of sexiness to it that only complemented the romance. And I have to say, Baxter’s heroes in this series continue to get better. It makes me want to claim all of them for myself! Trust me when I say this is a must read!
October 5, 2016
4.5 stars
Locked and Loaded was such a good read.
Loved the storyline, it was thrilling, fast paced and very entertaining. I stayed up late into the night reading, I just couldn't put it down.
I enjoyed watching Charlotte and Decker get to know each other, lock horns and fight the attraction between them. They amused me, they entertained me and by the end I was left with a heart full of happy feels.
I'm loving the U.S Marshals series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all!!
Thank you to Kensington Books - Zebra via Netgalley for the advance copy.
Locked and Loaded was such a good read.
Loved the storyline, it was thrilling, fast paced and very entertaining. I stayed up late into the night reading, I just couldn't put it down.
I enjoyed watching Charlotte and Decker get to know each other, lock horns and fight the attraction between them. They amused me, they entertained me and by the end I was left with a heart full of happy feels.
I'm loving the U.S Marshals series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all!!
Thank you to Kensington Books - Zebra via Netgalley for the advance copy.
August 15, 2016
4.5 stars!! Romantic suspense at its finest!!
Charlie is a federal prosecutor. She's smart, tough, and arrogant while being vulnerable (yeah, I'm not even sure how that works lol). She has been chosen to lead a task force to investigate and take down the Faction Five, a crime syndicate thought to consist of men of power (i.e. federal judge, senator, etc.).
Mason is a former CBP (Customs and Border Protection) agent, dissatisfied with the politics of the system. He bucks authority but desperately wants to be a U.S. Marshall. He finally gets the opportunity but the position hinges on his cooperation with the task force. Unfortunately, it's his background they're more interested in, not his skills, because the lead that they want to go after... Mason's brother, an infamous gem smuggler.
And from the there the story takes a life of its own. It was incredibly interesting, while being fast-paced, sexy, and intense. I strongly recommend it to all romantic suspense lovers.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
XO
Charlie is a federal prosecutor. She's smart, tough, and arrogant while being vulnerable (yeah, I'm not even sure how that works lol). She has been chosen to lead a task force to investigate and take down the Faction Five, a crime syndicate thought to consist of men of power (i.e. federal judge, senator, etc.).
Mason is a former CBP (Customs and Border Protection) agent, dissatisfied with the politics of the system. He bucks authority but desperately wants to be a U.S. Marshall. He finally gets the opportunity but the position hinges on his cooperation with the task force. Unfortunately, it's his background they're more interested in, not his skills, because the lead that they want to go after... Mason's brother, an infamous gem smuggler.
And from the there the story takes a life of its own. It was incredibly interesting, while being fast-paced, sexy, and intense. I strongly recommend it to all romantic suspense lovers.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
XO
September 16, 2016
Mandy Baxter's U.S. Marshals series is one that continues to keep me up past my bedtime!
Read this review in its entirety at The Book Nympho
Read this review in its entirety at The Book Nympho
September 19, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ciVeg9
Locked and Loaded (U.S. Marshals #5)
Locked and Loaded.... non-stop action with a side of steamy romance. Yes, please!
The quick of it is that Charlie's been named head of a task force set up to shut down an up and coming secret group that's up to no good...and likely packed full of high ranking officials. She's got to track them down, infiltrate and take em down. With the help of an infamous conman's son.
I enjoyed Charlie and Mason. The two are freaking exactly alike. They're the "good guys" and determined to rise through the ranks--she wants to make a name for herself as a federal attorney and he wants to join the US Marshals which because of his family connections has been a no-go. They're stubborn, control freaks, and all in. And they drove each other crazy. It was pretty damn fun watching them butt heads and battle for power in their relationship. I think with anyone else they'd be really obnoxious but since they were so evenly matched it was just fun watching their power plays, how the relationship panned out, and that little spark they got when the other challenged them in some way.
There's lots of steam and chemistry between them. Holy cow the hotness. I didn't totally feel the falling in love part but that's mainly because the romance side takes a huge backseat to the action side of the storyline. But the attraction and makings of a romance? Oh, yeah.
And action packed it was! Going undercover, diamond smuggling and back alley deals, danger and intrigue and not knowing exactly what they were getting themselves into as they tried to gain the trust of someone they thought was connected to the bad guys. It was exciting and a little nerve wracking now and again.
All in all, Baxter brought an exciting adventure to the table. One where black and white blur just a little and the gray areas take over. Add in some scorching hot attraction and intriguing characters and Locked and Loaded made for an excellent escape.
September 22, 2016
Caffeinated dates with Locked and Loaded
First Date: Mason Decker a Customs officer for the US Border Patrol has applied repeatedly for a position within the U.S. Marshals. When he is called into their offices, he is worried he’ll be told not to apply again. Instead, he is offered a chance to prove himself but it will cost him. Charlotte Cahill is leading the task force for his assignment. Their target is an infamous diamond smuggler. Charlotte (Charlie) is a control freak and wants things played by the book. Decker knows the players and to succeed they will need to do things his way. Oh boy I see these two butting heads. Things get REALLY interesting when Charlie accidentally places herself undercover as Decker’s partner. Between the sizzling chemistry and headstrong attitudes, we are in for one heck of a ride.
Second date: The case is interesting as Decker personally knows the players and to get into their good graces they will need to prove themselves. Charlie is strong, confident and needs to be in control. Decker admires that, but also worries she will blow the case or worse come to harm. Their contact is a strong, charismatic character. He’s cocky and yet one cannot help but like him.The dynamics of his relationship to Decker was intense and added an element I enjoyed. I loved the back and forth banter between Decker and Charlie. We can feel the attraction building between them and Kieran their contact creates extra tension. When these two collide, it’s explosive, sweet and incredibly heated. I loved the back and forth as we got to know the characters, learn about their history and discover their weaknesses.
Third date: Baxter delivers lots of heated, sexy time for this couple and allows the reader to witness them becoming connected beyond the physical. I was worried the case would suffer but Baxter provides obstacles, intense action scenes and a twist that kept me flipping the pages before delivering a stellar ending. While the romance begins with lust and moves quickly, Baxter gives us a realistic ending that made me smile.
Copy provided publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First Date: Mason Decker a Customs officer for the US Border Patrol has applied repeatedly for a position within the U.S. Marshals. When he is called into their offices, he is worried he’ll be told not to apply again. Instead, he is offered a chance to prove himself but it will cost him. Charlotte Cahill is leading the task force for his assignment. Their target is an infamous diamond smuggler. Charlotte (Charlie) is a control freak and wants things played by the book. Decker knows the players and to succeed they will need to do things his way. Oh boy I see these two butting heads. Things get REALLY interesting when Charlie accidentally places herself undercover as Decker’s partner. Between the sizzling chemistry and headstrong attitudes, we are in for one heck of a ride.
Second date: The case is interesting as Decker personally knows the players and to get into their good graces they will need to prove themselves. Charlie is strong, confident and needs to be in control. Decker admires that, but also worries she will blow the case or worse come to harm. Their contact is a strong, charismatic character. He’s cocky and yet one cannot help but like him.The dynamics of his relationship to Decker was intense and added an element I enjoyed. I loved the back and forth banter between Decker and Charlie. We can feel the attraction building between them and Kieran their contact creates extra tension. When these two collide, it’s explosive, sweet and incredibly heated. I loved the back and forth as we got to know the characters, learn about their history and discover their weaknesses.
Third date: Baxter delivers lots of heated, sexy time for this couple and allows the reader to witness them becoming connected beyond the physical. I was worried the case would suffer but Baxter provides obstacles, intense action scenes and a twist that kept me flipping the pages before delivering a stellar ending. While the romance begins with lust and moves quickly, Baxter gives us a realistic ending that made me smile.
Copy provided publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 14, 2016
The unusual plot of diamond smuggling, cons and undercover work in ‘Locked and Loaded’ has been entertaining from the get go - and is possibly the best of the U.S. Marshal series to date. It’s currently my antidote for listless, clichéd-ridden summer reads and a perfect choice for a high-octane action flick in narrative form, to the extent where I was sorry when it all ended so quickly.
What starts out as a man sidelined in law enforcement for his infamous family and a prickly U.S. Attorney turns into an elaborate con with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Mandy Baxter has written a sufficiently complex plot to keep the action going, with very strong lead characters who are compelling in their own right without crossing the line into smarmy or super-human…along with a cast of shady secondary ones who themselves aren’t caricatures. But it’s also a showing of diamond valuation, the stones’ shady origins and the bloody politics involved from raw material to production and selling - a complex minefield that Mason Decker and Charlie Cahill find themselves in with their necks barely above water. That the story covered issues like the moral grey areas of going undercover - and betraying one’s own family and principles while doing so - dramatised the plot and the main characters more sharply than ever and frankly, was a treat to read as Mason walked these painful steps to dissociate himself once again, from a life he’d never known.
Watching Mason’s and Charlie's relationship grow degree by degree as their interactions turned from hostile to wary and finally to scorching was beyond entertaining and enjoyable. I liked seeing how their mutual admiration of each other grew through a situation that neither could get out of and how they managed to find common ground together.
It’s definitely a plot that could keep going on - even if all the books in the series are standalone books - and I hope it does. With an ending that seems a little rushed and a loose end that isn’t quite so tied up, maybe…just maybe…we’ll see Mason and Charlie again.
It’s too soon to say goodbye.
*ARC by netgalley
(thrilled and grateful, especially for this)
What starts out as a man sidelined in law enforcement for his infamous family and a prickly U.S. Attorney turns into an elaborate con with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Mandy Baxter has written a sufficiently complex plot to keep the action going, with very strong lead characters who are compelling in their own right without crossing the line into smarmy or super-human…along with a cast of shady secondary ones who themselves aren’t caricatures. But it’s also a showing of diamond valuation, the stones’ shady origins and the bloody politics involved from raw material to production and selling - a complex minefield that Mason Decker and Charlie Cahill find themselves in with their necks barely above water. That the story covered issues like the moral grey areas of going undercover - and betraying one’s own family and principles while doing so - dramatised the plot and the main characters more sharply than ever and frankly, was a treat to read as Mason walked these painful steps to dissociate himself once again, from a life he’d never known.
Watching Mason’s and Charlie's relationship grow degree by degree as their interactions turned from hostile to wary and finally to scorching was beyond entertaining and enjoyable. I liked seeing how their mutual admiration of each other grew through a situation that neither could get out of and how they managed to find common ground together.
It’s definitely a plot that could keep going on - even if all the books in the series are standalone books - and I hope it does. With an ending that seems a little rushed and a loose end that isn’t quite so tied up, maybe…just maybe…we’ll see Mason and Charlie again.
It’s too soon to say goodbye.
*ARC by netgalley
(thrilled and grateful, especially for this)
October 1, 2016
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first book by Mandy Baxter and although this is #5 in the series it reads like a complete stand alone. I really like it and plan to go back and read the other books. It is so nice to discover a series where you don't feel totally adrift if you pick up a book out of order. It also is nice to have a fast paced sting plot and a hot romance, too.
Charlie is a U.S. Attorney who is the head of a Task Force trying to bring down Faction Five, a syndicate whose leaders are purported to be law enforcement and government employees. Charlie has daddy issues and is a control freak, micromanager who sees the Task Force as her way to finally make daddy proud. The Task Force knows very little about Faction Five, but they do know that a diamond smuggler, Kieran Eagan, is connected. The way to Kieran's organization is through his "brother" Mason.
Mason is the black sheep of his family. He chose law enforcement over the family business, crime. He is not thrilled that he has been tapped to infiltrate Kieran's organization, but he wants a shot at being a U.S. Marshal and this is it.
Charlie's micromanaging gets her in deep trouble with Mason. Mason has stepped outside the box that Charlie constructed for him and when she takes action to smack him down, she ends up being his partner in the sting. Instead of sitting a safe distance away and pulling everyone else's strings, she is in the middle of a very dangerous operation and in danger of losing her heart.
This is my first book by Mandy Baxter and although this is #5 in the series it reads like a complete stand alone. I really like it and plan to go back and read the other books. It is so nice to discover a series where you don't feel totally adrift if you pick up a book out of order. It also is nice to have a fast paced sting plot and a hot romance, too.
Charlie is a U.S. Attorney who is the head of a Task Force trying to bring down Faction Five, a syndicate whose leaders are purported to be law enforcement and government employees. Charlie has daddy issues and is a control freak, micromanager who sees the Task Force as her way to finally make daddy proud. The Task Force knows very little about Faction Five, but they do know that a diamond smuggler, Kieran Eagan, is connected. The way to Kieran's organization is through his "brother" Mason.
Mason is the black sheep of his family. He chose law enforcement over the family business, crime. He is not thrilled that he has been tapped to infiltrate Kieran's organization, but he wants a shot at being a U.S. Marshal and this is it.
Charlie's micromanaging gets her in deep trouble with Mason. Mason has stepped outside the box that Charlie constructed for him and when she takes action to smack him down, she ends up being his partner in the sting. Instead of sitting a safe distance away and pulling everyone else's strings, she is in the middle of a very dangerous operation and in danger of losing her heart.
September 19, 2016
Thanks to Ms. Baxter's U.S. Marshal series, I've officially promoted marshals to a sexy pay grade ahead of FBI agents. Sorry guys. Nothing personal.
When Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Cahill is asked to head up a task force to bring down the Faction Five group, she doesn't expect to have to work with a man who personifies the word arrogant and bossy. Mason Decker and his sketchy family history have all the potential to be a major problem when it comes to bringing down one of the most wanted diamond smugglers, Kieran Eagan, especially when she finds out Mason is essentially the dude's brother.
Mason and Kieran grew up together, both being taught by one of the world's most notorious criminals but landing on either side of the good/bad coin. Mason has sworn never to go after Kieran, but if it'll get him on the short list for employment with the U.S. Marshals, he'll do what he has to do. When Charlie becomes involved on a deeper level than he anticipated, he'll not only have to teach her everything he knows about running a con, but he'll also have to keep her safe. Easier said than done.
I absolutely adored LOCKED AND LOADED, book 5 in the U.S. Marshals series by the awesome Ms. Baxter! Mason was all growly Alpha badass goodness, and Charlie was definitely a badass in her own right. They had killer chemistry, and I loved the two of them working together to take down Kieran's organization (though I kind of loved him too and hope there's a "Guys Who the U.S. Marshals Hunt" spinoff so we can get more of him). Kieran stole the show as the ultimate gentleman thief, a charming, good looking and dangerous criminal mastermind who played by nobody's rules but his own.
The suspense was well written and exciting, and I flipped pages furiously, excited to find out what would happen next! Would Mason finally be tempted to follow in his illustrious father and brother's footsteps or would he actually take down the man he grew up with? The ending was excellent, very satisfying all around. And the sex scenes were just fabulous…although I so wouldn't have minded a yummy threesome between Mason, Kieran and Charlie…just sayin'.
Bottom Line: This is a terrific romantic suspense series featuring a group of law enforcement officials that are almost mythical in their history and abilities. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
When Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Cahill is asked to head up a task force to bring down the Faction Five group, she doesn't expect to have to work with a man who personifies the word arrogant and bossy. Mason Decker and his sketchy family history have all the potential to be a major problem when it comes to bringing down one of the most wanted diamond smugglers, Kieran Eagan, especially when she finds out Mason is essentially the dude's brother.
Mason and Kieran grew up together, both being taught by one of the world's most notorious criminals but landing on either side of the good/bad coin. Mason has sworn never to go after Kieran, but if it'll get him on the short list for employment with the U.S. Marshals, he'll do what he has to do. When Charlie becomes involved on a deeper level than he anticipated, he'll not only have to teach her everything he knows about running a con, but he'll also have to keep her safe. Easier said than done.
I absolutely adored LOCKED AND LOADED, book 5 in the U.S. Marshals series by the awesome Ms. Baxter! Mason was all growly Alpha badass goodness, and Charlie was definitely a badass in her own right. They had killer chemistry, and I loved the two of them working together to take down Kieran's organization (though I kind of loved him too and hope there's a "Guys Who the U.S. Marshals Hunt" spinoff so we can get more of him). Kieran stole the show as the ultimate gentleman thief, a charming, good looking and dangerous criminal mastermind who played by nobody's rules but his own.
The suspense was well written and exciting, and I flipped pages furiously, excited to find out what would happen next! Would Mason finally be tempted to follow in his illustrious father and brother's footsteps or would he actually take down the man he grew up with? The ending was excellent, very satisfying all around. And the sex scenes were just fabulous…although I so wouldn't have minded a yummy threesome between Mason, Kieran and Charlie…just sayin'.
Bottom Line: This is a terrific romantic suspense series featuring a group of law enforcement officials that are almost mythical in their history and abilities. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
Read
October 30, 2016OK, I gave up at 29%. This one just wasn't for me. I got this from NetGalley and I hate not to finish an ARC, but this one just didn't work for me.
I will say right off I loved the cover - it's not over the top in your face, and still manages to be smokin' hot. Kudos to whoever designed it. And the author's style of writing worked and I would definitely give this author another chance.
For me, it's the characters and the set up of the plot that I failed to connect with.
Charlie the heroine just rubbed me the wrong way from the get go. First I've reached my quota a long time ago at confusing a female character with a male name. Second the meeting of the H/h was way too contrived. I couldn't understand why an Assistant DA was in charge of a task force that the US Marshall's office had put together. And with the way that Charlie's character was written, I couldn't see her in charge of any high level and secret task force. I found myself questioning so many actions that happened in the first 20% of the book that I was really struggling. And then we move to the attraction between the Charlie and Mason and I just wasn't interested.
I read and review for fun and this wasn't fun. A lot of other people who read the same genres as I do really like this book and this series, so I think it may be just me and not this book.
I want to thank NetGalley and Zebra Publishing for the opportunity read this ARC.
I will say right off I loved the cover - it's not over the top in your face, and still manages to be smokin' hot. Kudos to whoever designed it. And the author's style of writing worked and I would definitely give this author another chance.
For me, it's the characters and the set up of the plot that I failed to connect with.
Charlie the heroine just rubbed me the wrong way from the get go. First I've reached my quota a long time ago at confusing a female character with a male name. Second the meeting of the H/h was way too contrived. I couldn't understand why an Assistant DA was in charge of a task force that the US Marshall's office had put together. And with the way that Charlie's character was written, I couldn't see her in charge of any high level and secret task force. I found myself questioning so many actions that happened in the first 20% of the book that I was really struggling. And then we move to the attraction between the Charlie and Mason and I just wasn't interested.
I read and review for fun and this wasn't fun. A lot of other people who read the same genres as I do really like this book and this series, so I think it may be just me and not this book.
I want to thank NetGalley and Zebra Publishing for the opportunity read this ARC.
Want to read
August 10, 2016"An ARC has been provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review"
September 28, 2016
This review was originally posted on Delighted Reader
Ooops! I did it again. I picked up an interesting book on NetGalley without checking if it was part of a series. The good news, I didn't get lost as I navigated my way through it. So if there were returning characters, I don't even have a clue who they would have been.Mandy Baxter writes a story about a man who wants to do right after growing up with a con artist. Mason Decker has one dream: to be a U.S. Marshal. The one thing stopping him: his father and brother. After two rejections, Mason is called in and he is confused as to why they want to deliver the rejection in person only to find out they need him for a mission. A mission that includes his father and brother. He's good at undercover work and his family is the way into getting a huge criminal syndicate forming. The key....he takes the mission to betray his family and he gets the position he so caveats. Then he meets the person in charge.
Charlotte Cahill, or Charlie, is heading up a mission to take down a new criminal element cropping up its head. The only link they have is Mason's brother Kieran. While the U.S. Marshal wants Kieran for gem smuggling, they need him more as a source into something much bigger. Charlie doesn't mind using Mason to get what she wants, but she doesn't trust him even is his under cover work for customs has been squeaky clean.
These two lock horns right away and I can't say I saw much in the way of sparks fly. They seem attracted to each other, but they really don't like each other. When Charlie does something stupid, she gets put in the mix and now they have to rely on each other to get out. It felt pushed and not natural for these two to fall in love. Again it was such a short time and wham, the L word is being bandied around in their minds.
The passion between the sheets is pretty intense when they finally get around to it, but still I didn't see much of a relationship forming between the two. After about one scene, we just get they tried and true "they made love all through the night" line. It isn't the last one, but it does make for wondering if they really are meant to be together forever after one night in the midst of some suspenseful times.
Mason came across as an ass and Charlie as a bitch at times. Both are struggling to be in charge, but neither invoked in me confidence they knew what they were doing.
Now not all was bad. I enjoyed the story enough, just didn't find it to be a great story. I would gladly try more stories from this author as the writing style was engaging. So don't think I didn't enjoy the story, I just had a few problems that kept me from raving about it.
October 13, 2016
My Review:
I've enjoyed this entire series. This book had a slightly different feel to it, but that definitely wasn't a bad thing...in fact, I really liked the twists and turns in this one.
Decker is not a US Marshal yet, but he wants to be. That's been his goal from the moment he became a law enforcement officer, but he's been passed over multiple times...because he's part of one of the most notorious crime families. At the beginning of this book, he's offered his dream...a slot at US Marshal school. He just has to use his criminal brother to bring down a new crime syndicate. No problem for this guy who's spent most of his career working undercover...but it's his brother. There's some loyalty at test there.
Charlie is the US District Attorney in charge of this task force. She doesn't know anything about Decker, most especially if she can trust him. So when he makes an unexpected move, she barges in...putting herself in the midst of the undercover operation...something that she's not trained to do at all. But now they're stuck together in a very dangerous situation.
I really did enjoy the whole setup for this one. The tension between Decker and Charlie felt very real...and when they eventually give into it, dang...they are sexy together. Those scenes were absolutely sizzling. Then there's all the intrigue and action of the case they're working. I loved all that tension.
And I can't talk about this book without talking about Kiernan. I know he's not a US Marshal...but I want him to get a story, too. He's such a tragic character and my heart broke for the glimpses we got of his true emotion. I want him to have some happy in his life. Please...
Note: This is a series I continue to buy in print just because the covers are so dang gorgeous. Did you take a good look at that cover? OMG, it's absolute perfection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I've enjoyed this entire series. This book had a slightly different feel to it, but that definitely wasn't a bad thing...in fact, I really liked the twists and turns in this one.
Decker is not a US Marshal yet, but he wants to be. That's been his goal from the moment he became a law enforcement officer, but he's been passed over multiple times...because he's part of one of the most notorious crime families. At the beginning of this book, he's offered his dream...a slot at US Marshal school. He just has to use his criminal brother to bring down a new crime syndicate. No problem for this guy who's spent most of his career working undercover...but it's his brother. There's some loyalty at test there.
Charlie is the US District Attorney in charge of this task force. She doesn't know anything about Decker, most especially if she can trust him. So when he makes an unexpected move, she barges in...putting herself in the midst of the undercover operation...something that she's not trained to do at all. But now they're stuck together in a very dangerous situation.
I really did enjoy the whole setup for this one. The tension between Decker and Charlie felt very real...and when they eventually give into it, dang...they are sexy together. Those scenes were absolutely sizzling. Then there's all the intrigue and action of the case they're working. I loved all that tension.
And I can't talk about this book without talking about Kiernan. I know he's not a US Marshal...but I want him to get a story, too. He's such a tragic character and my heart broke for the glimpses we got of his true emotion. I want him to have some happy in his life. Please...
Note: This is a series I continue to buy in print just because the covers are so dang gorgeous. Did you take a good look at that cover? OMG, it's absolute perfection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 4, 2016
2.5
Mason Decker tried all his life to show he's not like his criminal father, but even a career in law enforcement can't stop doubts. Refused two times for the position he covets, he's between job when a proposition difficult to refuse is offered to him.
He's just got to con his father (who's in jail) and the friend (who was raised with him) he has not seen for ten years, so he can leads him to the wanted organisation of crooked cops and politicians. But he did not anticipate having to team up with assistant U.S. attorney for the undercover job. He may try to intimidate her with his tough attitude, but she's just as feisty as he is.
I'm sorry to say, it didn't work for me this time. I don't think they worked like professionals but more like lovesick teenager letting their hormones take the lead. Even from the beginning, Charlotte acted too much like a panting dog in front of Mason. And I didn't believe in their love story. And do I need to mention that the traitor is no surprise, because this idea is always used and I'm so sick of this cliché ? The same can be said about what happened to Kieran in the end.
I don't recommend to begin the series with this book, the others was so much better.
Mason Decker tried all his life to show he's not like his criminal father, but even a career in law enforcement can't stop doubts. Refused two times for the position he covets, he's between job when a proposition difficult to refuse is offered to him.
He's just got to con his father (who's in jail) and the friend (who was raised with him) he has not seen for ten years, so he can leads him to the wanted organisation of crooked cops and politicians. But he did not anticipate having to team up with assistant U.S. attorney for the undercover job. He may try to intimidate her with his tough attitude, but she's just as feisty as he is.
I'm sorry to say, it didn't work for me this time. I don't think they worked like professionals but more like lovesick teenager letting their hormones take the lead. Even from the beginning, Charlotte acted too much like a panting dog in front of Mason. And I didn't believe in their love story. And do I need to mention that the traitor is no surprise, because this idea is always used and I'm so sick of this cliché ? The same can be said about what happened to Kieran in the end.
I don't recommend to begin the series with this book, the others was so much better.
October 1, 2016
They may not the blood brothers, but the are real. They may choose their own path for life but they still are family. That's Manson n Kerian. I do enjoy reading the character of Kerian, even he is bad guy.
Manson n Charlie were a team to get the bad guys down n Kearian is the key. Betrayal, went through all the lines, it's hurt when u found out no one can trust.
Family should be the place u stay peace but not Kerian n Manson.
Manson n Charlie were a team to get the bad guys down n Kearian is the key. Betrayal, went through all the lines, it's hurt when u found out no one can trust.
Family should be the place u stay peace but not Kerian n Manson.
September 22, 2016
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is September 27th, 2016.
This is part of the U.S. marshals series however it is not necessary to read all the stories that came before this one in order to enjoy it. I did read the previous one, At Any Cost, however not the three that came before it. It was enough to peak my interest in this story. For those who have read At Any Cost, I preferred it to this story. For those who haven't, it doesn't matter.
This story is a mix of sexy romance with a little splash of thriller added in to it. You have an ultra sexy cop, and overly driven DA, and undercover secret operation and a mixed bag of bad guys. Of course it is going to be entertaining. Between the high stakes operations and between the sheets, there is plenty going on to appeal to whatever you may be looking for.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Charlotte and Mason, both with their verbal warfare and with their physical chemistry. You knew that there would be only one way to settle their difference and that it would be hot. Baxter did not disappoint there. I also liked the chemistry between Mason and his "brother". So many layers of complexity there that you didn't know what would happen.
Normally I can figure out who the "bad" guy is or what the angle of the story is however I did not in this one. I am not sure if that is a good or a bad thing. I did find that the storyline was a little far fetched to be realistic and the twists and turns a little bit random. I recall coming close to the end of the story and thinking to myself that there were too many loose ends regarding the faction five to be realistically explained/wrapped up in the remaining time. When it was it almost felt rushed to me. That is really my only criticism.
I enjoyed this read. I feel like I need to go back and read the first three books as from what I have read, they always seem to deliver a super hot male characters, sexy romance and a good time.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is September 27th, 2016.
This is part of the U.S. marshals series however it is not necessary to read all the stories that came before this one in order to enjoy it. I did read the previous one, At Any Cost, however not the three that came before it. It was enough to peak my interest in this story. For those who have read At Any Cost, I preferred it to this story. For those who haven't, it doesn't matter.
This story is a mix of sexy romance with a little splash of thriller added in to it. You have an ultra sexy cop, and overly driven DA, and undercover secret operation and a mixed bag of bad guys. Of course it is going to be entertaining. Between the high stakes operations and between the sheets, there is plenty going on to appeal to whatever you may be looking for.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Charlotte and Mason, both with their verbal warfare and with their physical chemistry. You knew that there would be only one way to settle their difference and that it would be hot. Baxter did not disappoint there. I also liked the chemistry between Mason and his "brother". So many layers of complexity there that you didn't know what would happen.
Normally I can figure out who the "bad" guy is or what the angle of the story is however I did not in this one. I am not sure if that is a good or a bad thing. I did find that the storyline was a little far fetched to be realistic and the twists and turns a little bit random. I recall coming close to the end of the story and thinking to myself that there were too many loose ends regarding the faction five to be realistically explained/wrapped up in the remaining time. When it was it almost felt rushed to me. That is really my only criticism.
I enjoyed this read. I feel like I need to go back and read the first three books as from what I have read, they always seem to deliver a super hot male characters, sexy romance and a good time.
September 20, 2016
Action, suspense, and a steamy romance are all included on the pages of this fantastic book. This one grabbed my attention from the very first page and kept me glued to the pages all the way through. Charlie and Decker are incredible characters and their snarky banter and steamy hot sexy times made for an incredible read.
Mason Decker has been biding his time knowing that he will once again be turned down by the Marshall Service due to his family connections. Have the country's most notorious con artist as a father doesn't really help one's law enforcement career. Suddenly he's called in to assist on an undercover job with a permanent Marshall position dangled as bait. The catch - he has to use his father and his connections as well as probably send the one man he's ever thought of as a brother to jail. Something doesn't feel quite right but he agrees to the deal.
Charlotte "Charlie" Cahill is heading up the task force Decker is assigned to. It takes about two minutes for these two headstrong people to lock horns over how the investigation is going to be run. When Decker tries to go rogue, Charlie is there to step in. Only she may have step into something she can't quite handle and it means she will be spending a lot of time, up close and personal time, with Decker. Will either escape unscathed??
One of the best in the series so far. Each book can be read standalone so grab this one and give it a try. I highly recommend it.
Mason Decker has been biding his time knowing that he will once again be turned down by the Marshall Service due to his family connections. Have the country's most notorious con artist as a father doesn't really help one's law enforcement career. Suddenly he's called in to assist on an undercover job with a permanent Marshall position dangled as bait. The catch - he has to use his father and his connections as well as probably send the one man he's ever thought of as a brother to jail. Something doesn't feel quite right but he agrees to the deal.
Charlotte "Charlie" Cahill is heading up the task force Decker is assigned to. It takes about two minutes for these two headstrong people to lock horns over how the investigation is going to be run. When Decker tries to go rogue, Charlie is there to step in. Only she may have step into something she can't quite handle and it means she will be spending a lot of time, up close and personal time, with Decker. Will either escape unscathed??
One of the best in the series so far. Each book can be read standalone so grab this one and give it a try. I highly recommend it.
September 26, 2016
Mason Dexter and Charlotte “Charlie” Cahill both have dreams they have not fulfilled. Mason’s desire is to become a U. S. Marshall and prove that he is nothing like his notorious father - a jailed smuggler or ill repute. His application has been turned down several times when he is offered another undercover job but this time with the lure of a reward he cannot refuse – one that could make his elusive dream come true. Charlie has been trying to prove to her father that she can make it to the top in law but not the type of law he wanted her to pursue – the field of law she has chosen is one that puts criminals out of business for good and does not bring in nearly as much money as her father would like.
Both on the same multi organization task force they begin to pursue Faction Five and in so doing are supposed to be part of the same team – and this is not always easy to remember for either of them. With ups and downs, bad guys and good, evil in unexpected places, a family member or two making appearances, chemistry to deal with and a twist at the end this is a fast-paced, steamy romance that kept me turning pages till I reached the end. Is it believable - perhaps not. Is it fun – yes. Do you have to read the previous books in the series – no. Is it something new and different – not really. Did I enjoy it – yes. Will you enjoy it – you just might.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 Stars
Both on the same multi organization task force they begin to pursue Faction Five and in so doing are supposed to be part of the same team – and this is not always easy to remember for either of them. With ups and downs, bad guys and good, evil in unexpected places, a family member or two making appearances, chemistry to deal with and a twist at the end this is a fast-paced, steamy romance that kept me turning pages till I reached the end. Is it believable - perhaps not. Is it fun – yes. Do you have to read the previous books in the series – no. Is it something new and different – not really. Did I enjoy it – yes. Will you enjoy it – you just might.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 Stars
Read
September 6, 2016 Arc provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, for an honest review
With likeable characters, this book didn’t grab my interest. I had a hard time believing in the suspense plot, with the hero’s family involvement and the heroine’s complete inexperience, naiveté and lack of skills and competence for her job.
The writing is good despite the clichés.
At about 30% I gave up.
Depending on the subjec I might read other books by this author in the future.
With likeable characters, this book didn’t grab my interest. I had a hard time believing in the suspense plot, with the hero’s family involvement and the heroine’s complete inexperience, naiveté and lack of skills and competence for her job.
The writing is good despite the clichés.
At about 30% I gave up.
Depending on the subjec I might read other books by this author in the future.
September 5, 2016
This was a fun read. Make sure you suspend belief before you read because the plot line necessitates that. That being said this was an enjoyable read. Mason seriously gets screwed over from day one and yet remains totally likable. Charlie comes off as a raging bitch but softens as the book goes on. Intsa-love is on full display but so it is in all the books from this series.
May 23, 2018
I didn’t think it was possible for this author to give me another book I’d enjoy, let alone one I loved even more than the first but I stand corrected. Although, I didn’t care for the three previous books it’s reminded me to keep a positive attitude that I most likely won’t enjoy every single book by an author and it doesn’t mean that I should completely give up on them as proven by how much better and how much I absolutely LOVED the final book in this series. It started out strong with the first book, fizzled out with the disappointing middle three, then redeemed itself with a fireworks show in the finale.
There was nothing I didn’t like about this book except one minor thing I would have preferred but in all actuality was not a big deal. When Mason knew he went too far and apologized, I wanted more of an apology and maybe some sweet talking her rather than the argument leading straight into makeup sex. I still wanted the sex scene just preferred them talking it out a little more and maybe some sweet talk to show her he was sorry for what he said. Other than that the rest of the book was like a dream come true.
It had everything I wanted and looked for in a romance. They established a bond, trust, friendship, love, all of it. They didn’t just jump into sex within two weeks of knowing each other because they were attracted to each other. Them being on a job together might have had something to do with the pace of them taking their time before sleeping together, but I’m ok with that, I’ll take it. Note to author though, it’s so much sweeter, more rewarding, and just plain better for the majority of us romance readers to see the bond between two people before all the sex. If I don’t care about characters as individuals or as a couple, I’m not going to care about them having sex. I need the connection first and foremost. This books had that and more. It even had me on the edge of my seat, scared for them because they were involved in such a dangerous situation, could be found out at any time with one little mistake. I must say Charlie impressed me with how easy she picked up on the diamond trade scheme and her character became so likable after her initial screwup, which to be fair, wasn’t all her fault but she still didn’t use her head. After their first misjudgments about each other, they seemed to pull together and both became much better people than they were in the beginning.
I loved that for once we finally got a book where it’s the hero who gets jealous, so many times it’s always a girl getting jealous and the guy thinks its funny and even encourages the behavior when it just makes me despise them. I hate that!!! It was nice to see the tables turned in this one but honestly the whole finding amusement in someone’s insecurity is just not for me no matter which side it plays out on. I’d rather see them reassure the other that they have nothing to worry about when someone flirts with them rather than joke about it and make it seem as if they’re being ridiculous but that’s just me. Sometimes people just need to hear the words rather than being embarrassed and laughed at. You can tell that Mason always feels second best compared to Kieran even though he loves him and my heart just broke for him. For a while, I actually thought that Kieran stole one of Mason’s girlfriends in their younger days because of how possessive and jealous he got over Charlie. He expected Charlie to like him and even accepted beforehand that she would have feelings for Kieran because everyone always likes him better. He’s never had anything to himself and doesn’t expect to get the girl even now but Charlie’s was different. She was perfect for him and he for her.
The mystery of who was behind the Faction Five and Kieran’s connection to them was incredibly well done, thoroughly thought out, and just a very fun story to read overall. Everything about this book was on point and I hope that we might get another book like this in the future from this author. This was just so much more than I expected and I’m glad I stuck it out to the end because this was worth the payoff.
There was nothing I didn’t like about this book except one minor thing I would have preferred but in all actuality was not a big deal. When Mason knew he went too far and apologized, I wanted more of an apology and maybe some sweet talking her rather than the argument leading straight into makeup sex. I still wanted the sex scene just preferred them talking it out a little more and maybe some sweet talk to show her he was sorry for what he said. Other than that the rest of the book was like a dream come true.
It had everything I wanted and looked for in a romance. They established a bond, trust, friendship, love, all of it. They didn’t just jump into sex within two weeks of knowing each other because they were attracted to each other. Them being on a job together might have had something to do with the pace of them taking their time before sleeping together, but I’m ok with that, I’ll take it. Note to author though, it’s so much sweeter, more rewarding, and just plain better for the majority of us romance readers to see the bond between two people before all the sex. If I don’t care about characters as individuals or as a couple, I’m not going to care about them having sex. I need the connection first and foremost. This books had that and more. It even had me on the edge of my seat, scared for them because they were involved in such a dangerous situation, could be found out at any time with one little mistake. I must say Charlie impressed me with how easy she picked up on the diamond trade scheme and her character became so likable after her initial screwup, which to be fair, wasn’t all her fault but she still didn’t use her head. After their first misjudgments about each other, they seemed to pull together and both became much better people than they were in the beginning.
I loved that for once we finally got a book where it’s the hero who gets jealous, so many times it’s always a girl getting jealous and the guy thinks its funny and even encourages the behavior when it just makes me despise them. I hate that!!! It was nice to see the tables turned in this one but honestly the whole finding amusement in someone’s insecurity is just not for me no matter which side it plays out on. I’d rather see them reassure the other that they have nothing to worry about when someone flirts with them rather than joke about it and make it seem as if they’re being ridiculous but that’s just me. Sometimes people just need to hear the words rather than being embarrassed and laughed at. You can tell that Mason always feels second best compared to Kieran even though he loves him and my heart just broke for him. For a while, I actually thought that Kieran stole one of Mason’s girlfriends in their younger days because of how possessive and jealous he got over Charlie. He expected Charlie to like him and even accepted beforehand that she would have feelings for Kieran because everyone always likes him better. He’s never had anything to himself and doesn’t expect to get the girl even now but Charlie’s was different. She was perfect for him and he for her.
The mystery of who was behind the Faction Five and Kieran’s connection to them was incredibly well done, thoroughly thought out, and just a very fun story to read overall. Everything about this book was on point and I hope that we might get another book like this in the future from this author. This was just so much more than I expected and I’m glad I stuck it out to the end because this was worth the payoff.
September 3, 2019
Loaded with Intrigue
If you’re in the mood for a romantic thriller that lets you jump in at Book 5 without feeling like you’ve missed important pieces of the backstory then “Locked and Loaded” is a good choice. The title hooked me at the get-go so I was all in.
To say that Mason Decker is a straight arrow from a criminal background is like saying the Pope is Catholic. His father is doing hard time in a federal prison and his “brother” Kieran is perpetually only a half-step ahead of the law. They both think he’s a schmuck for walking the straight and narrow for peanuts when the pickings are easy. When Mason is assigned to a task force headed up by Charlie Cahill his rebel tendencies emerge because the powers that be know he prefers to work alone. But “Charlie” is an ambitious assistant US Attorney who doesn’t cotton to being told NO and she’s determined to stick to Mason like a burr. It’s good that she’s a quick study because Mason has to give her a crash course in being his “accomplice” in this undercover assignment from hell, just to keep them both alive. Can they track down and find the infamous Faction Five? Or does it even really exist? Is Kieran the key to finding answers to those questions? And if so, is blood thicker than water?
With no prior knowledge of the series I feel at liberty to comment with no shading from the earlier books. The characters are fully developed and multidimensional, especially those of Mason and Kieran. The dynamics of their brotherly relationship are particularly interesting but I could never make up my mind about Kieran’s motivations. Sometimes his jealousy of Mason was evident, especially in his obvious attempts to cut him out of the picture and monopolize Charlie’s time and impress her with his savoir faire. But other times that brotherly connection was the only thing keeping Kieran from wandering too far afield into the criminal element. Charlie is an interesting character. At first glance she is imbued with all the characteristics we love in a strong male lead but find overbearing in a female. Those are just societal norms pounded into us from early on. Once you cut through the pre-conceived notions, Charlie has a lot going for her and there’s more to her than is obvious at first glance.
The multidimensional plot is almost too much, at times seeming to draw in factions just to roil the water a bit more. And I could have done with more action and a lot fewer inner musings from all the characters. It slows the pacing unnecessarily. But the plot twists will keep you on your toes if you can stay with it through the slower parts. There’re also some steamy bedroom scenes with Mason and Charlie that add the romance to this romantic thriller. Four stars.
If you’re in the mood for a romantic thriller that lets you jump in at Book 5 without feeling like you’ve missed important pieces of the backstory then “Locked and Loaded” is a good choice. The title hooked me at the get-go so I was all in.
To say that Mason Decker is a straight arrow from a criminal background is like saying the Pope is Catholic. His father is doing hard time in a federal prison and his “brother” Kieran is perpetually only a half-step ahead of the law. They both think he’s a schmuck for walking the straight and narrow for peanuts when the pickings are easy. When Mason is assigned to a task force headed up by Charlie Cahill his rebel tendencies emerge because the powers that be know he prefers to work alone. But “Charlie” is an ambitious assistant US Attorney who doesn’t cotton to being told NO and she’s determined to stick to Mason like a burr. It’s good that she’s a quick study because Mason has to give her a crash course in being his “accomplice” in this undercover assignment from hell, just to keep them both alive. Can they track down and find the infamous Faction Five? Or does it even really exist? Is Kieran the key to finding answers to those questions? And if so, is blood thicker than water?
With no prior knowledge of the series I feel at liberty to comment with no shading from the earlier books. The characters are fully developed and multidimensional, especially those of Mason and Kieran. The dynamics of their brotherly relationship are particularly interesting but I could never make up my mind about Kieran’s motivations. Sometimes his jealousy of Mason was evident, especially in his obvious attempts to cut him out of the picture and monopolize Charlie’s time and impress her with his savoir faire. But other times that brotherly connection was the only thing keeping Kieran from wandering too far afield into the criminal element. Charlie is an interesting character. At first glance she is imbued with all the characteristics we love in a strong male lead but find overbearing in a female. Those are just societal norms pounded into us from early on. Once you cut through the pre-conceived notions, Charlie has a lot going for her and there’s more to her than is obvious at first glance.
The multidimensional plot is almost too much, at times seeming to draw in factions just to roil the water a bit more. And I could have done with more action and a lot fewer inner musings from all the characters. It slows the pacing unnecessarily. But the plot twists will keep you on your toes if you can stay with it through the slower parts. There’re also some steamy bedroom scenes with Mason and Charlie that add the romance to this romantic thriller. Four stars.
March 23, 2018
Charlie has been put in charge of an inter-force task force to take down a new, almost untouchable, crime syndicate. They don't know who is in it, but they do know someone who is working on getting money to help someone else get in. Charlie is very smart and a planner. She intends to run the op to plan and add this success to her career.
Mason Decker has always wanted to work for the US Marshal's office. He's applied twice and been rejected despite his long history in law enforcement. He is promised a job with the Marshal's office if he works on Charlie's task force. Charlie doesn't know anything about his background and thinks he's still a customs agent.
Charlie and Mason have an unfortunate first meeting in an elevator, both not knowing who the other is. Once in the meeting room there are problems because Mason refuses to work to the plan. Personally, I thought he must be a royal pain to work with when you can never count on him. Unfortunately, it's his brother who is their in to the crime syndicate so Charlie needs him. Not only that, it's Mason's father that his brother is getting the money for.
Mason goes off plan immediately. We never hear what the rest of the task force is doing, but it must be mostly useless since who knows what Mason will do? At this point Charlie has a TSTL moment, which drives the rest of the book. Mason visits his father in jail to get info. When Charlie hears about it she is furious and drives to the jail to fire him. For some reason she feels this is best done in the jail in front of Mason's dad. Why? At the very least, wait by the car. Jail visits aren't that long and it's a perfect time to check out the news on your phone. This is totally out of character and overshadowed the rest of the book to some extent.
Once she shows up to the visitation area, she is a problem for Mason. He introduces her as a diamond broker. It is her first time under cover. God knows who is running the task force now and why it even exists.
That's the set-up for the book and what happens. Once you're over the hump of Charlie being so dumb, the book gets fairly interesting.
Mason Decker has always wanted to work for the US Marshal's office. He's applied twice and been rejected despite his long history in law enforcement. He is promised a job with the Marshal's office if he works on Charlie's task force. Charlie doesn't know anything about his background and thinks he's still a customs agent.
Charlie and Mason have an unfortunate first meeting in an elevator, both not knowing who the other is. Once in the meeting room there are problems because Mason refuses to work to the plan. Personally, I thought he must be a royal pain to work with when you can never count on him. Unfortunately, it's his brother who is their in to the crime syndicate so Charlie needs him. Not only that, it's Mason's father that his brother is getting the money for.
Mason goes off plan immediately. We never hear what the rest of the task force is doing, but it must be mostly useless since who knows what Mason will do? At this point Charlie has a TSTL moment, which drives the rest of the book. Mason visits his father in jail to get info. When Charlie hears about it she is furious and drives to the jail to fire him. For some reason she feels this is best done in the jail in front of Mason's dad. Why? At the very least, wait by the car. Jail visits aren't that long and it's a perfect time to check out the news on your phone. This is totally out of character and overshadowed the rest of the book to some extent.
Once she shows up to the visitation area, she is a problem for Mason. He introduces her as a diamond broker. It is her first time under cover. God knows who is running the task force now and why it even exists.
That's the set-up for the book and what happens. Once you're over the hump of Charlie being so dumb, the book gets fairly interesting.
July 18, 2018
Charlie is an assistant U.S attorney and is heading up a team to find and take down a group called the Faction Five, who are reported to be an organized crime syndicate with some very powerful people involved. Mason worked for the Customs Border Patrol but quit and has been trying to get a job with the Marshal services. His family has been what has been keeping him from getting in. His father is an infamous thief, con man, and smuggler. Where Mason went the law route, his adopted brother, Kieran followed their father’s footsteps. Mason is convinced to join the team to take down the Faction Five and he’ll be allowed to join the Marshal services. His brother is believed to being recruited for the Faction. He is supposed to convince Kieran that his gas traded sides and wants in on what he’s doing.
Charlie gets herself brought into the undercover work and has to get Kieran to believe she is a jewlrey expert. After Mason swore he wouldn’t work with a partner, now he’s got to try and teach Charlie about diamond grading. As they get closer to who is behind the Faction, the closer Mason and Charlie get.
Then she is taken and held hostage and Mason will do anything to save her, even if he has to take down his brother.
Action packed, suspense, sex, and some surprises. Great story and loved the characters. The storyline was easy to follow and the sex was smoking hot.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley *
Charlie gets herself brought into the undercover work and has to get Kieran to believe she is a jewlrey expert. After Mason swore he wouldn’t work with a partner, now he’s got to try and teach Charlie about diamond grading. As they get closer to who is behind the Faction, the closer Mason and Charlie get.
Then she is taken and held hostage and Mason will do anything to save her, even if he has to take down his brother.
Action packed, suspense, sex, and some surprises. Great story and loved the characters. The storyline was easy to follow and the sex was smoking hot.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley *
February 5, 2019
A fast-paced story of thieves and criminals who you don’t know which side even the good guys are on until the end. Charlotte Cahill is a U. S. Attorney heading up a task force to take down a group of people that they don’t know who all of the players are. Enter Mason Decker a former customs, border agent who has been trying to enter the U. S. Marshall's for years and always being denied because of who his father is. Now trying to get in any way possible they come to him with a deal help them and they will fast track his application. He agrees only because he wants to take down the people, but first, he must meet his father who has been locked up for ten years and somehow get with the guy he always thought of as a brother and who learned from his father as well. Coming up with a plan and not telling anyone pisses off Cahill who barges in on his first met and now she has put herself in their crosshairs. Not knowing what she did she can’t get out of it and has to go along with Mason. The story picks up from there and is a wild ride to a surprise finish. Overall a very good book with good characters and storyline. I got this book from NetGalley. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
November 27, 2019
Loved the setup for this story and the passionate chemistry between Charlotte (Charlie) and Mason. Mason and Charlie are part of a task force to take down an evil faction; she’s an attorney and he’s worked in law enforcement type positions. They initially get off on the wrong foot, but as they work together they find more between them. Mason had a tough go of it growing up with a criminal father and “brother”; he’s had it tough trying to advance in the law enforcement world. Mason is tasked with trying to get information about the faction from his criminal “brother”, so there’s conflict with that situation. Loved how tough and sassy Charlie is, but she does have her dopey moments; still mostly liked her though. This is a slow burn at first, but leads into some hot, hot passion. Plus, some really sweet moments. Loved the suspense and how the story unfolds; entertaining and fun! Looking forward to reading more by this author and in this series!
August 28, 2019
Mason and Charlie have more in common than “control issues”. These two accidentally partner themselves up as under-covered agents and embark on the illegal diamond trade. They made a great couple in and out of bed. This book is intriguing with double agents, crooked cops, con men and a mystery group ready to bulldozer over law enforcement. Yet, the heart of this book resolves around family and loyalty.
July 25, 2024
I did enjoy the storyline in this book, but I gave it 3 stars because I feel that devoting nearly a whole chapter to sex scenes can take away the flow of the story. I don't have a problem with sex scenes at all, just that sometimes 2-3 pages can be quite sufficient:) Just my opinion:)
October 2, 2016
Charlotte Cahill (Charlie) is pretty much always locked and loaded when it comes to fighting for justice. With her U.S. District Attorney laser like focus locked on following the cast in stone rules and loaded with determination to always get her man, aka the bad guys, she isn’t one to back away from a fight/getting the job done. When Mason Decker steps into her line of fire, we soon realize he’s another completely different type of crime fighting lethal weapon.
These two immediately don’t see eye to eye, folks. I had to admire Charlie’s “no one messes with my case” reaction when she finds out Mason, right off the bat, seems to be going rogue. She may be all about following the plan but Mason’s sure quick to think on his feet. Working undercover for so long has given him a sixth sense to know when to lie and just go with it. A trait Charlie soon has to acquire when she’s forced to go undercover, as well. Yeah, that was a rather big stretch of the imagination, but what the heck, I shrugged my shoulders and went with it.
You see, when Charlie’s attempt to rein Mason in backfires, she gets pulled into a web of deception being created to catch a thief, Kieran, Mason’s estranged, basically a brother to him, diamond smuggler. He’s being used, along with Mason’s criminal manipulative, mastermind incarcerated father, to catch a much bigger fish, a newly formed “can’t touch them, because we can’t find them” cartel known as Faction Five. With surprising twists and turns and a dramatic turncoat life-threatening showdown, the author did a great job of keeping me fully engaged, despite the crime drama aspect usually taking center stage. That’s saying something, folks, because I’m usually all about the romantic plot only.
What was the passion meter on this one? Well, at 25% Mason and Charlie start to realize their attraction to one another, but they aren’t intimate until almost 60%. Let me just say, it was pretty lengthy and off the charts steamy! All that tension and pent up chemistry definitely got unleashed. Btw, here’s fair warning, the author uses smexy terms and lusty language in those heated scenes. It’s definitely for mature 18 years and older readers only.
It was kind of a kill joy to have Mason acting like nothing happened the next day and for awhile afterwards though. You see, he’s starting to get conflicted over feeling like he is being a traitor to Keiran. Folks, he basically is as working this case will supposedly get Mason a US Marshal position. However, Kieran is not the target so is supposed to walk away scot free. With that said, it just didn’t seem right to take those feelings out on the heroine. She, at least for awhile, felt like a one night stand. I forgave him though, because it wasn’t done in a vengeful sort of way. Was just stupid and uncalled for, because he was already in love with her by then.
Keiran, btw, definitely grew on me. I found myself wanting to get inside his head, because I couldn’t help sense there is much more to him than meets the eye. His blatant obvious flirtatious interest in Charlie at times had me feeling a tad bit sorry for him. Did he really want Charlie or was it to make Mason jealous? Your guess is as good as mine as his thoughts are never really shared. Many may not feel this way about Keiran, because he definitely came across rather arrogant and sure of himself. By the end, you did sense he cared about Charlie and, though extremely angry once all the cards were on the table, he wanted her to be safe.
Well, I’m going to end my review here, my fellow romance book-loving friends. I’m afraid if I don’t I’ll accidentally give away too many spoilers. Here’s to hoping what I did say has been insightful enough to help you decide if this well-written, cloak and dagger, romance suspense novel is right for you. I definitely thoroughly enjoyed it and now want to read all the books in this series.
Romance Safety Gang: Hero has only had a few random girlfriends over the years, because he was focused on his career. Has been a year since he was even intimate with a woman. You sense the same thing about the heroine. There doesn’t seem to be any OW/OM drama except for flirting to get the job done. Kieran sort of presents a love triangle, but it is completely one sided, as Charlie only wants Mason.
Title: Locked and Loaded, Series: US Marshals (book 5), Author: Mandy Baxter, Pages: 352, Pub. Date: 9/27/16, well-written, sibling type rivalry between Keiran & Mason, a few VERY steamy scenes with lusty language, criminal plot takes center stage, HEA, stand-alone, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, surprise turncoat I didn’t see coming.
Book 1 - One More Night (Harper & Galen), 9/2/14, Pages: 352
Book 2 - One More Kiss (Emma & Landon), 2/24/15, Pages: 352
Book 3 - One Touch More (Tabitha & Parker), 10/27/15, Pages: 352
Book 4 - At Any Cost (Olivia & Nick), 5/31/16, Pages: 352
Book 5 - Locked and Loaded (Charlotte & Mason), 9/27/16, Pages: 352
(This review is based on ARC generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No monetary compensation was paid to the reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
These two immediately don’t see eye to eye, folks. I had to admire Charlie’s “no one messes with my case” reaction when she finds out Mason, right off the bat, seems to be going rogue. She may be all about following the plan but Mason’s sure quick to think on his feet. Working undercover for so long has given him a sixth sense to know when to lie and just go with it. A trait Charlie soon has to acquire when she’s forced to go undercover, as well. Yeah, that was a rather big stretch of the imagination, but what the heck, I shrugged my shoulders and went with it.
You see, when Charlie’s attempt to rein Mason in backfires, she gets pulled into a web of deception being created to catch a thief, Kieran, Mason’s estranged, basically a brother to him, diamond smuggler. He’s being used, along with Mason’s criminal manipulative, mastermind incarcerated father, to catch a much bigger fish, a newly formed “can’t touch them, because we can’t find them” cartel known as Faction Five. With surprising twists and turns and a dramatic turncoat life-threatening showdown, the author did a great job of keeping me fully engaged, despite the crime drama aspect usually taking center stage. That’s saying something, folks, because I’m usually all about the romantic plot only.
What was the passion meter on this one? Well, at 25% Mason and Charlie start to realize their attraction to one another, but they aren’t intimate until almost 60%. Let me just say, it was pretty lengthy and off the charts steamy! All that tension and pent up chemistry definitely got unleashed. Btw, here’s fair warning, the author uses smexy terms and lusty language in those heated scenes. It’s definitely for mature 18 years and older readers only.
It was kind of a kill joy to have Mason acting like nothing happened the next day and for awhile afterwards though. You see, he’s starting to get conflicted over feeling like he is being a traitor to Keiran. Folks, he basically is as working this case will supposedly get Mason a US Marshal position. However, Kieran is not the target so is supposed to walk away scot free. With that said, it just didn’t seem right to take those feelings out on the heroine. She, at least for awhile, felt like a one night stand. I forgave him though, because it wasn’t done in a vengeful sort of way. Was just stupid and uncalled for, because he was already in love with her by then.
Keiran, btw, definitely grew on me. I found myself wanting to get inside his head, because I couldn’t help sense there is much more to him than meets the eye. His blatant obvious flirtatious interest in Charlie at times had me feeling a tad bit sorry for him. Did he really want Charlie or was it to make Mason jealous? Your guess is as good as mine as his thoughts are never really shared. Many may not feel this way about Keiran, because he definitely came across rather arrogant and sure of himself. By the end, you did sense he cared about Charlie and, though extremely angry once all the cards were on the table, he wanted her to be safe.
Well, I’m going to end my review here, my fellow romance book-loving friends. I’m afraid if I don’t I’ll accidentally give away too many spoilers. Here’s to hoping what I did say has been insightful enough to help you decide if this well-written, cloak and dagger, romance suspense novel is right for you. I definitely thoroughly enjoyed it and now want to read all the books in this series.
Romance Safety Gang: Hero has only had a few random girlfriends over the years, because he was focused on his career. Has been a year since he was even intimate with a woman. You sense the same thing about the heroine. There doesn’t seem to be any OW/OM drama except for flirting to get the job done. Kieran sort of presents a love triangle, but it is completely one sided, as Charlie only wants Mason.
Title: Locked and Loaded, Series: US Marshals (book 5), Author: Mandy Baxter, Pages: 352, Pub. Date: 9/27/16, well-written, sibling type rivalry between Keiran & Mason, a few VERY steamy scenes with lusty language, criminal plot takes center stage, HEA, stand-alone, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, surprise turncoat I didn’t see coming.
Book 1 - One More Night (Harper & Galen), 9/2/14, Pages: 352
Book 2 - One More Kiss (Emma & Landon), 2/24/15, Pages: 352
Book 3 - One Touch More (Tabitha & Parker), 10/27/15, Pages: 352
Book 4 - At Any Cost (Olivia & Nick), 5/31/16, Pages: 352
Book 5 - Locked and Loaded (Charlotte & Mason), 9/27/16, Pages: 352
(This review is based on ARC generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No monetary compensation was paid to the reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews