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FBI agent Talia McKinnon is investigating the disappearance of local young women, leading her straight to the Spartan Rider’s doorstep. Passion ignites as they join forces to uncover the truth before another victim disappears.

Following a messy divorce, Talia McKinnon dives headfirst into a case of human trafficking that’s been plaguing the area. To complicate matters, one of their own has gone dark, shining a spotlight directly on the criminal organization that calls themselves the Spartan Riders MC. Tasked with finding out who is responsible for the kidnapping and selling of local women, a relationship is the last thing on her mind, until a run-in with a hot-as-Hades, leather clad biker changes her mind.

Tucker “Country” Abrams believes in two things: brotherhood and women. He takes his job seriously and his women hard, but at the end of the day, the only loyalty he has is to his club. So when a night with a beautiful stranger threatens to change everything, he’s quick to apply the brakes. When a little detective work reveals that Talia may be much more than a one-night stand, Tucker is tasked with an impossible decision. Will he push her away, or go against every instinct he has and pull her closer?

Fans of Fiona Davenport and Lily Atlas will love this second installment of J.C. Valentine’s Spartan Riders series.

If you’re ready to crank up the heat and adventure, scroll up and one-click Talia and Tucker’s exciting rollercoaster ride to love now!

421 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 26, 2016

94 people are currently reading
420 people want to read

About the author

J.C. Valentine

77 books2,006 followers
USA Today bestselling romance author J.C. Valentine lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their amazing children and fun-loving dogs. When she's not writing stories of love, laughter, and steamy scenes, you can find her editing for fellow authors or spending time with her family. J.C. has been penning stories since childhood, though thankfully her writing has improved since then. She loves bringing heart, humor, and happiness to readers through her vivid imagination and love of words.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
Profile Image for Sybil aka Lala.
478 reviews231 followers
August 3, 2016
Is it possible for JC Valentine to write a book that I do not like?

No I don’t think it is. It seems that whatever she touches, whether it be contemporary romance, romantic comedy or MC romance, it is blended with a perfect balance of endearing and endearing characters, angst, humour, suspense and heat! Mettle was no different.



And although Tucker wasn’t enough to knock Blake off his seat, he still had me clutching at my pearls with his filthy words and letting go of some happy sighs at his sweetness. I adored the heroine and it was so refreshing to read about a strong and sly woman in an MC series. The plot had its fair share of twists and it certainly kept me nailed to the pages to see how it would all turn out but it was the chemistry and passion between Tucker and Talia that really kept me interested.




As a whole this book was thrilling, funny, exciting, HOT and a highly entertaining read. I cannot wait to read about the rest of the guys of The Spartan Riders MC. I love this group of guys together and it is fast becoming one of my favorite MC Series to date!

(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
Profile Image for Carlene.
1,027 reviews276 followers
August 3, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

Tucker "Country" Abrams is Sergeant at Arms in the Spartan Riders Motorcycle Club. He likes booze, women, and his brothers. As a free bird he enjoys all women equally and loves knowing he doesn't have to worry about anyone but himself and his brothers. Talia Bruce is a hot little number he'd like to keep in his bed for a little while though.
Talia McKinnon will do whatever it takes on the job to break the case, even sleeping with the handsome, slightly terrifying leather clad Country of the Spartan Riders Motorcycle Club. She may be making a deal with the devil, but it certainly feels good during it.
Spending a lot of time together may look like a relationship, but that's not what either of them are in this for. When they both must face the truth or who they really are, they just might have to recognize it's more than just lust between them.

From page one I was hooked, the prologue pulls you in just enough to let you know this book is going to meet every expectation set by the previous novel, Grit. We're automatically introduced to the action, though not fully immersed into it. Told in dual POV, with an occasional chapter from another character's view, Mettle steps away from Blake's story line in Grit and moves us to his Sergeant at Arms. We meet Tucker and Talia, two people who are explosive in the bedroom, but not in touch with their feelings outside of it. From the start I loved Tucker, he's no nonsense, clearly goes after what he wants, and just so happens to have a soft spot that can melt your heart in an instant. Talia is sort of hilarious, she's part tough-girl part total cliche emotional girl and their introduction to one another lays it all on the table. These two are ridiculously hot in the bedroom, but outside of it they have all the makings of a perfect couple too. While they don't exactly communicate about personal things, how they act together really shows the reader just how these two work.

It was the man. Something about him-his charisma, his magnetism, his mettle- that drew her. Sparked her intrigue. Mae her want to get close to the fire, to feel the burn.

Then there's the action, while the book is focused on the relationship of Tucker and Talia it is not lacking in the action department. Talia's job is always on your mind, we know what she's up against, but like Talia we are in the dark of what is really motivating people to kidnap women. It's incredibly interesting to fall for the two characters, yet know there could be a sinister secret hiding behind it all. I really liked that Talia was written as such a strong character, able to be both a career driven woman and a partner to Tucker, even if it was a bit secretive. The case of the kidnapping girls really drove the plot just that much farther and kept my interest piqued, wanting to know what would happen next. The suspense was definitely there, but didn't take away from the romance at the same time.

"I just found you. No way am I letting someone take you away from me."

Mettle is an excellent release in the Spartan Riders series and, while it can be read as a stand alone, I do suggest reading Grit first. This book was sexy, action-packed, and filled with hilarious dialogue. I loved the play on fate with this one, I think JC Valentine did such a good job with this book and I cannot wait to get to know more of the Spartan Riders...or I could just insert myself into the story and have Tuck to myself.
Profile Image for Mizz.
1,074 reviews393 followers
August 28, 2016
Struggled to get into the story:

1 - H is a manwhore douchebag
2 - the banter between the h and the H was too cheesy for me
3 - the writing felt disjointed

DNF'd

So frustrated!

Profile Image for Melissa Mendoza.
2,598 reviews54 followers
July 22, 2016
Title: Mettle
Author: J.C. Valentine
Series: Spartan Riders Series, Book 2
Publisher: J.C. Valentine
Release Date: July 26, 2016
Genre(s): MC Romance
Page Count: 350
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:

Talia McKinnon said goodbye to love the day she signed the divorce papers and moved across the country looking for a fresh start. With work occupying her days and nights, a relationship is the last thing on her mind, until a run-in with a hot-as-Hades, leather clad biker changes her mind. He’s everything she shouldn’t want but has to have. The problem is, he’s not that easy to catch.

Tucker “Country” Abrams believes in two things: brotherhood and women. He takes his job seriously and his women hard, but at the end of the day, the only loyalty he has is to his club. So when a night with a beautiful stranger threatens to change everything, he’s quick to apply the brakes. But when a little detective work reveals that Talia may be much more than a one-night stand, Tucker is tasked with an impossible decision. Will he push her away, or go against every instinct he has and pull her closer?


Review:
“Her heart beat a little faster as she watched the men line up in front of the building, backing their bikes into their parking spots expertly. Dammit, she was supposed to be mad, and she was. It was just a little less fire and a little more sizzle than it was before they showed up.”

5 Tucker stars!! Obsessed with this series… I can’t get enough!

Talia is over men, since her divorce. And quite frankly she’s too busy with work to even consider a relationship. But that thought changes when she sets her eyes on Tucker. She knows the minute she meets him she has to have him, but Tucker isn’t so easy to obtain. Tucker is fiercely loyal to his MC club and he doesn’t need a woman muddling that up. After one night with her though he knows he can’t stay away, but is he willing to put his club on the line for her?

I’m never disappointed when it comes to J.C. Valentine books. I know I’m in for a sexy and intriguing ride when it comes to her books. And Mettle is no different. I was hooked when I started reading and I couldn’t put it down! The characters, the story, the heat… what’s not to love really?

me alphabookclub
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club description
Profile Image for Linda.
887 reviews83 followers
July 28, 2016
It is times like this that I wish I felt comfortable writing one word reviews, but if I was that one word would be AWESOME
As I have said previously , J.C. Valentine's writing is always wonderfull!
"Mettle", is the second book in her Spartan Riders series and they just keep getting better, she has created, ruff, rugged, strong bikers with an equally passionate , loving , sexy side .
Tucker"Country" Abrams is no exception, former special ops and now Blakes second hand man and go to information guy. An important figure in light of the ongoing issues with the Cruiz Mc, encroaching on their territory and with Blakes love "Gabby" to protect.
As much as Tucker is happy for his freind and club president to be in love with Gabhy, Loveis not for Tucker, he enjoys the bunnies that come to club , a night or two of fun then on to the next; adamant that he will never have an Ol' Lady.

Enter Talia McKinnon, undercover FBI agent on assignment watching The Spartan Riders and their possible involvement with the upswing in local women Abduction and trafficking . So when this beautiful some approaches Country in the bar, he is game and more then up fora one night stand with her, but one sexy hot night turns out not to be enough and these two keep coming back for more
Tucker , Amy keep denying how he feels , but he is of fooling his fellow club members , but little does her own that Talia has ulterior motives for being with him. The problem for Talia that line between work and her real feelings has dissolved and the FBI agent wants the biker!
Will the solve the human trafficking ? Will Tucker admit he has fallen in love? Will they give a real relationship a go? Will it all fall apart?

Arc Graciuosly supplied by the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Judy.
1,064 reviews
August 1, 2016
This is the second book in this series. I rated the first book 4 stars and this one 3 stars. I like the characters and writing style and enjoyed reading the book but still feel there is a little something missing. Country/Tuck is so hot he will singe your eyelashes and Talia is a strong woman who is not submissive, except maybe in the bedroom sometimes. More than likely I will read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Lauren :) (Romance Novel Giveaways).
653 reviews406 followers
January 19, 2017
Holy Hot Biker Bad Boy!

First of all, loved it. I tore through this book. The story was gripping, it was so well-written and I MUST go back and read Grit (although THIS IS A STANDALONE, I enjoyed it SO much that I want to read more about the Spartans MC!)

I love how the introduction and and interaction between Talia and Tucker was there right out of the gate, that I didn't have to read half of the book before they met. And what an introduction and interaction it was!

Early on, I learned that Talia is guarding a HUGE secret (no spoilers!) and I COULD NOT WAIT to see what happened once it came to light. And, boy, did it! I loved her spunk and her faults, and her relentlessness.

Tucker was AMAZING. I loved how he treated Talia differently from the start, even though he didn't know why he was doing it. His vulnerability, though well hidden, made him just adorable (in an ex-Special Ops, total badass sort of way).

All in all, I LOVED it and can't wait to read more about these sexy Spartans!!!

***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

Merged review:

Holy Hot Biker Bad Boy!First of all, loved it. I tore through this book. The story was gripping, it was so well-written and I MUST go back and read Grit (although THIS IS A STANDALONE, I enjoyed it SO much that I want to read more about the Spartans MC!)I love how the introduction and and interaction between Talia and Tucker was there right out of the gate, that I didn't have to read half of the book before they met. And what an introduction and interaction it was!Early on, I learned that Talia is guarding a HUGE secret (no spoilers!) and I COULD NOT WAIT to see what happened once it came to light. And, boy, did it! I loved her spunk and her faults, and her relentlessness.Tucker was AMAZING. I loved how he treated Talia differently from the start, even though he didn't know why he was doing it. His vulnerability, though well hidden, made him just adorable (in an ex-Special Ops, total badass sort of way).All in all, I LOVED it and can't wait to read more about these sexy Spartans!!!***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Kim.
1,080 reviews33 followers
July 26, 2016
Country the Big Bad Biker .... Sexy and Hot .... That won't let himself LOVE ....

Talia with the Soft Velvet Voice .... Curves and Hard as Nails .... That has a job to do but will LOVE get in the way ....

When Ricky Cruiz is still on the monds of the Spartans can gabby and Blake get on with there lives or will it be at a stand still until Ricky comes out of hiding ? Can Country get the Intel he needs to bring down Cruiz or will Talia get in the way ??

Will Tucker "Country" let Talia have a little bit of his heart ? Will his walls start to break away or will he in the end build them back up again when he doesn't think he can TRUST her. Trust is a deal breaker for both of them but when it is broken can it be repaired ?? Can one lie be the straw that breaks or will there LOVE for each other be enough ?

Even when Tucker can't believe it himself that he could LOVE .. Repo, Taco and even Blake can see right through there friend even when he keeps telling them he and Talia are just having fun, it is just sex, we are just friends ?? I don't think so....

The suspense, drama and sex in this book is over the TOP !! Way to go JC, you hit it out of the park with another fantastic book !!
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,837 reviews464 followers
July 26, 2016
I love a hot romance and when I know I am going to read a book by J.C Valentine, I put everything else aside!

This woman knows how to write an all encompassing book. With steamy hot guys you drool over and plenty of sexy action, you are never disappointed with her books. And Mettle is another spicy read that had me all in!

Yummy Tuck "Country" was looking for a hot hook up and that is just what he got with Talia, but he wasn't looking for love. With plenty of sex, a bit of suspense, and even some crime business action, the Spartans MC never looked so hot.

While I never read book one, I didn't feel overly lost. I think it would have rounded the story out better for me had I. Plus the author left some things hanging that will open the doors for the next book in the series too.

With a nice HEA and plenty of heat to be had, this book is a steamy read that will have you all tied up! A delicious addition to the authors work and a perfect read that will leave you satisfied!
Profile Image for Big Joe  Rossi.
1,776 reviews50 followers
March 28, 2018
Talia is FBI and when she infiltrates the MC through Tuck aka Country lines will be blurred. Tasked with finding evidence of the missing girls of the area, she knows they may be looking in the wrong place but she will do her job and anything else she has too to help those girls.

Tuck [makes] loves em and leaves em, that is till Talia she makes him want more. but with her fiestiness and strong will and the MC dealing with external foes but the will fight through that till her true self is revealed.

My issue with this book, Also the fact that the MC is "clean" but feared? No!
Profile Image for Ivy Deluca.
2,384 reviews330 followers
September 8, 2017
**this review covers books 1 through 3**

description

Motorcycle club romances are their own animals. They give me a peek into a world far removed from my own and tend to stretch my boundaries as a reader, since the level of misogyny and general WTFery can make me twitchy, but I need to shake things up from the fluffy and funny on occasion.

description

I like my MCs more on the lighter side of the WTFery scale. For those who don’t know my scale, it’s 1 to 5, with 1 like Kristen Ashley’s Chaos series (they just ride, yo) all the way up to a 5 like Madeline Sheehan’s Undeniable series, aka “oh dear Lord what the Holy Hell just happened, I need an adult.”

So, when I saw this series by JC Valentine, I snagged it, thinking it’s in the 1-2 range and cool. Then I realized it was three books into the series. *facepalm*

description

Kindle Unlimited. Now, I’m an OCD kinda gal when it comes to reading series in order. I have tried to just go with the flow, but it does bug me and leaves me with a case of FOMO that I’d rather not deal with. Since the earlier books were on Kindle Unlimited, I decided to read them all, in order, so this is more of a series review, rather than a single book. Yay, a three-fer!

So here’s the sitch. The Spartan Riders are an MC that used to be on the wrong side of the law until MC President Blake “Quick” Mahone turned things around and now they ride but they stay clean...ish. He’s a single father who meets Gabby, his son Ash’s schoolteacher and sparks fly in GRIT. The men in his club, like Tucker “Country” Abrams (who romances Talia McKinnon in METTLE) and Garrick “Repo” Stone (the hero of VIGOR), are the usual manly men, can be a-holes but when it comes to their women, they’re ...well, the domineering and stubborn but they love them.

Since the beginning of the series, it’s been crystal clear that Repo LOVES Ginger “Red” Mercury, an older bunny with a complicated history with him and his brothers. Yes, there’s been sex had with many of the brothers - definite a push on my boundaries, but not a dealbreaker, at least the way it’s handled here. Anyway, Repo has staked his claim on Ginger with his brothers (hands off or I’ll break them off, kind of claim). Ginger is NOT having it.

description

From there, eventually romance happens.

The characters are interesting to me. Ms. Valentine hooked me from Grit and while I had issues with the writing (more on that later), I like the tone of this MC series - the chemistry between the characters (sexual and non-sexual) works and there’s an edge of danger that keeps the action flowing.

The overarching storyline dominates this narrative. In VIGOR more than the earlier books, the tensions between the Spartans and the main villain family Cruiz takes over and sidelines the romance. I think that’s because Ginger and Repo don’t have alot of conflict between them. They butt heads but their internal obstacle isn’t strong, it’s resolved quickly, undone, then resolved again. It felt more drama for drama’s sake. The first third of the book, when it’s more focused on them, is a bit rough around the edges then turns towards the more tender and man, I needed that turn.

Diversity and stereotypes. I wasn’t a fan of the fact that the villains were the stereotypical Latino cartel folk and other than that, there is maybe one more ethnic character, also a stereotype. This needs work.

Attention to detail is an issue. There are continuity discrepancies (locations, ages, things that happened in one book that are changed in the next) that stood out to me, especially since I read the first three books back to back. The stories all have the same rhythm and while the individual romances give the books a sense of completion,the endings are all abrupt with that “to be continued….” feel to them. Ginger and Repo’s ending was the same - I think because it was clear they should be together that the ending felt rushed and just left open for more Spartan adventures.

description

Ultimately I am enjoying this series, though it’s hard to rate, so I gave all three books the same rating. I would say there’s potential here that would keep me coming back for more and I think Ms. Valentine can create chemistry between her characters, a skill that should be appreciated. I am hoping that the issues I had with the series so far get resolved and that it gets stronger because this is a cast of characters I wouldn’t mind visiting again.


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Profile Image for JB's Book Obsession - Jennifer.
465 reviews22 followers
December 30, 2016
Talia McKinnon is recently divorced and ready to move on with her life. She has decided to throw herself into her work moving across the country far away from her past. Work is all she can think about, love is no longer part of her life. Fate has other plans for Talia when she meets a sex on stick biker she can't stop thinking about. He knows he is bad news and will only complicate her life but who can resist a hot biker dressed in leather. When he finds out what she is hiding can he convince her they are worth a shot?

Tucker “Country” Abrams only cares about two things his brotherhood and sliding into every willing woman that crosses his path. He has no desire to be a husband, father saddled down family life his not his deal. He will leave that to his other brothers. When he crosses paths with the beautiful Talia and realizes he could want more than just a roll in the hay he pulls back he can't be that guy. Yet she manages to work her way into his heart until she breaks it. Can he forgive her betrayal?

My Review:
This is book two in the Spartan Riders MC series by J.C. Valentine. This series is not your typical MC series. These bikers are not criminals they are trying to protect their town and give the MC a good name. But that doesn't mean that other bad guys aren't trying to take them down or that the cops aren't weary of their supposed good image. For this is a different kind of MC series, I don't expect the gritty drama and violence. Its more of a sweet contemporary romance for me with hot bikers.
As always with a J.C. Valentine book the writing was stellar, the sex was steamy and the story flowed keeping me entertained.

I look forward to the next book in the series.

RECEIVED AN ARC FROM INDIE SAGE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.

Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,410 reviews627 followers
June 8, 2019
I'm gonna make this quick and to the point ... holy frikkin sexiness batkids!

Tucker “Country” Abrams has no shame LOL That man is pure alpha gritty goodness and he doesn't care who knows it! He is DELICIOUS! And don't get me started on sassy Talia McKinnon . She's strong and sure and not afraid to go after what she wants! The two together made for an explosive story. And the explosion started right away. The moment these two set eyes on each other, fate was determined ... they just didn't realize it for about another 100 pages LOL

Honestly, I am always excited when I get to read a J.C. Valentine book. She really never disappoints. She's very good at unfolding a story with minimal fluff and ridiculous high wow-factor. And he characters are just always SO DAMN DELICIOUS!

HUGE NOTE .... You know the part of the blurb where it tells you "... detective work reveals that Talia may be much more than a one-night stand...", HOLY SHIT!! #TRUTH

Copy provided for blog tour review
Profile Image for Hayley.
140 reviews2 followers
August 27, 2016
The first book in this series was ok - this was less so.

Talia is terrible at her job. She should never have been given the assignment - Tuck made her right away and if he'd been a bad guy, she'd have been in a shallow grave pretty quick.

Also - this sentence made me laugh:

She’d done it. Somehow, Talia had managed to get in close with one of the Spartans

Yeah, gee. Somehow she did it! Who knew the way to 'get in close' with a biker was to offer up herself as a hot piece of ass. Fucking genius. She's like a female James Bond!

Also - he brings Talia back to the compound for tequila and a good time and leaves her in his room to go talk to Blake and then has two drinks at the bar? If I was Talia (and not undercover for the FBI, I wouldn't be waiting around for anyone . . . .)

I found this too stupid to continue with - DNF!
Profile Image for Connie.
1,125 reviews28 followers
August 21, 2016
Another hot addition to this series. Suspense, intense and what a ride. You have a love 'em and leave 'em sexy biker named Country and an undercover agent named Talia searching for the truth which includes a little crossing the line and some red hot seduction. But it all boils down to who is seducing who and it doesn't take long for both of them to be in over their head. The truth has a way of coming out and love sneaking up on ya. Storyline ends in a way that makes you yearn for the next in the series. Would recommend. Received an ARC copy from author for a honest review.
Profile Image for Laura Reinhart .
427 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2016
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love the Spartan books, the characters are amazing. I could not put this book down and finished it in one sitting. J C has a way of drawing you into the story.
Profile Image for Kerry Fletcher.
584 reviews9 followers
October 6, 2017
Book 2! Tucker aka Country and Talia.

Talia has a job to do. She's determined to succeed where everyone else has failed. She needs to get into the Spartans and dig around. Her way in? The sexy biker who takes her breath away Country.

Tucker is always on guard. His military history ensures he's always alert. If he's not doing club stuff he's taking as many women as can. No strings, no ties just a lot of fun. When a sexy woman buys him a drink he takes her back to his room for a night of fun. There's something different about Talia that draws him in but he insists that it's nothing more than than a roll in the sack. No way is he ever taking an ol'lady it's not for him.

The clubs enemy are closing in. Threats are coming in. Can Tucker keep everyone safe. Can he change his mind and take Talia into his heart?

Gah Country! He's so bada.. i can't even... the end scene.... wow!!!! wow!!! I love him! His toy drawer nearly sent me into a frenzy! swooooon!!!

Talia isn't so bad herself. I loved her sense of humor it brought many a smile to my face and also how forward and confident she is with Tucker.

Great second installment. I loved the main characters and i'm loving getting to know all the MC. The way the story is written gives you a great view of everyone in the MC it gives the whole picture not just from one or two views but all of them!

I'm loving this series so much it's becoming an addiction i'm not gonna give up!
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,297 reviews207 followers
July 26, 2016
4 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 26, 2016

Talia McKinnon said goodbye to love the day she signed the divorce papers and moved across the country looking for a fresh start. With work occupying her days and nights, a relationship is the last thing on her mind, until a run-in with a hot-as-Hades, leather clad biker changes her mind. He’s everything she shouldn’t want but has to have. The problem is, he’s not that easy to catch.

Tucker “Country” Abrams believes in two things: brotherhood and women. He takes his job seriously and his women hard, but at the end of the day, the only loyalty he has is to his club. So when a night with a beautiful stranger threatens to change everything, he’s quick to apply the brakes. But when a little detective work reveals that Talia may be much more than a one-night stand, Tucker is tasked with an impossible decision. Will he push her away, or go against every instinct he has and pull her closer?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: METTLE is the second installment in J.C. Valentine’s contemporary, adult SPARTAN RIDERS erotic MC romance series focusing on the men and women of the Spartan Riders Motorcycle club. This is Sargent at Arms Tucker ‘Country’ Abrams, and undercover agent Talia McKinnon’s story line. METTLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for cohesion and backstory I recommend reading the series in order as some of the events in book two are as of a direct result from some of the events in book one GRIT wherein threats against the club president’s girlfriend continue to grow.

Told from several third person points of view METTLE follows special agent Talia McKinnon on her assignment to infiltrate the Spartan Riders MC in the hopes of ferreting out a human trafficking ring. The FBI’s most recent undercover agent with the Spartan Riders MC has gone dark, and Talia has volunteered for the next undercover assignment. What ensues is the building relationship between Talia and the Spartan Riders Sargent at arms Tucker Abrams- a manwhore whose latest club bunny has been pushed to the side- and Talia’s search for any information that will lead to the missing women, and proof that Tucker and his MC are involved.

The relationship between Tucker and Talia is quick to develop as Tucker is a man who never refuses an offer for a night of uninhibited $ex but is also a man who doesn’t do relationships or love. Talia’s undercover assignment does not include taking her marks to bed, but in order to get close to the MC, Talia is willing to go above and beyond until her cover is blown by one of her own. One thing stands in Talia’s way-club bunny Bambi-a woman who has her claws in Tucker Abrams. The $ex scenes are erotic, intense and provocative. There is plenty of sexual tension and palpable energy between our leading couple.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including club President Blake Mahone and his girlfriend Gabby (Grit), as well as a number of Club members-The Spartans VP Repo has his eyes set on club bartender Ginger-a woman scorned when the man she loved fell in love with someone else. We are introduced to Talia’s co-workers and fellow agents in the field, some of whom may be working for the other side. The characters are real, heartbreaking and intense.

The world building looks at life within the MC: the friendships, rivalries, rules and regulations. Sex is a regular part of their every day life, and no one is immune from jealousy or threats.

METTLE is a fast paced, intriguing story of betrayal and trust; lies and deceit; friendship and love; forgiveness and letting go of the past. The premise is engaging and riveting; the romance is passionate, energetic and seductive. J.C. Valentine’s METTLE will suck you in for the ride of your life.

Copy supplied by the promoter
Profile Image for Beth.
500 reviews22 followers
July 26, 2016
I received this book from the Author in exchange for my honest review.

OH.....EM.......GEE.......Love this book. Yum!

Talia is an undercover agent being brought in after other undercover agents have not been contacted and she has to fight for her chance to get in. She is good at what she does, and she is going to get the job done. Stubborn, strong, beautiful, but also a bitter heart when it comes to feelings. She can't help that she had to learn that from her ex-husband. All the edges she has she uses to help her be the agent she is, not to mention who she is as well.

Tucker (aka Cowboy) is the vice president/second in command of his MC gang. They are all brothers and they protect one another. Tuck is a woman loving, brutally honest, arrogant, hotter than hell man. So when he is trying to rid himself of a clingy "bunny" he takes a ride, has an ice cold beer and looks into the eyes of a woman who makes him want things.....mainly her.

Talia is undercover (as mentioned above) so lying is part of the job. She sees Tuck pulled into a parking lot at the club and is struck. She doesn't want to get caught taking pictures (as she was actually doing) but she also is struck by this gorgeous one. He finishes his beer and leaves. She is wanting to follow him. Not just to get the "bad guys" but to get this bad boy. Tuck sees her but doesn't really know what to think. Parts of him think fun for tonight and parts of him seem to want to get with her and not just for one time.

There are events that happen and Talia happens into the bar that Tuck is drinking at. They strike up a conversation, next thing you know he is treating her to the "Cowboy" way, and it is far from the vanilla style she is used to. She at first was a bit nervous and skeptical about what she saw (while snooping around in his drawers) but with him it all seems to fit and she seems to fit. Does she want to fit with him? Does he want her to stay right where she is?

She leaves him, not usual for him as he is the one who usually needs to get the girls to leave. He likes that about Talia, she seems to be like him in that way. But he gets a pang of he doesn't want her to go. He has baggage, and he fights a ragging battle with himself that he is not falling for this woman - HARD.

More things happen, and they are getting deeper and deeper into the feelings territory that neither want but can't help being there. He finds out she is an undercover agent and he is pissed. She tried hard to tell him she was sorry, to explain, however he has shut down to her completely. She finally puts balls to the wall and confronts him, and that is when all the fireworks start all over again. Neither wanted to fall in love and open up completely but they do and they finally admit that they love each other. The thing of it is, you won't want to miss a single minute of HOW they got there and all the delicious chemistry they share getting to this awesome place. It really is delicious. There are ups and downs, angry moments, laughter, tears and everything in between. You become a part of them, you feel like you are along side them. I LOVE IT!
Profile Image for Mandie Foxylutely.
948 reviews96 followers
July 25, 2016
This is the second book in the additive MC series, Spartan Riders. I had not read the first book Grit, but as soon as I started reading Mettle, it was easy to pick up the back story but this is mainly about the hot as hell romance of Talia and Tucker.

Tucker Abrams aka Country is the SA for the Spartan Riders. His focus is his brothers of the MC but he also has a huge love of women, lots of women. He doesn’t do relationships so when one of the hang arounds starts to read more into their repeat hook ups, he cuts her off and goes to a bar in search of new fun. When he spots the sexy woman at the bar he knows his night is on the up. If only he knew the secret she was hiding.

Talia is off men full stop. Ever since she finally got a divorce she left town and moved as far away from her old life as she could. Her mantra of the single life takes a dint when she meets Tucker, who is one sexy ass biker she just can’t say no to. The moment these two get together the countdown to explosive passion was set.

I loved this storyline and the chemistry between Talia and Tucker was tangible. It was intensity at its best and just grabbed me from the get go. Tucker was a pure unapologetic ALPHA, with his growly voice and his domineering persona, I was hooked! Talia was a go getter and instantly likable and not one of these wimpy wispy women we come across so often in romance books. I love it when the h is a sassy ball buster that hides a painful past. She was also hiding one heck of a secret that I was wondering how the reveal would go down.

I must admit I did think the backstory of the war between MCs was easily resolved but as I had not read the first book, then I am not sure what had already gone down in relation to that. I also thought that when Tucker finds out Talia’s secret it would be more dynamic but other than a few weeks of angst and hurt it was soon over to move on to the HEA. However these are the only areas I wanted just a little bit more on as other than these, I loved everything else about it. So much so I am going back to read Grit to fill in some of the questions I had going through my head as I was reading Mettle. It will also let me find out all about the sexy pres Blake and his teach, Gabby.

Overall a smoking hot, intense MC read that I definitely recommend all MC lovers pick up to read next. Four and a half stars.

ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Deanna.
3,695 reviews55 followers
July 18, 2016
In Mettle, we return to J.C. Valentine's Spartan Riders MC world. This time, it's "Country" who is taking us for a ride.

Tucker "Country" Abrams is a love 'em and leave 'em type of guy. He's always known the whole marriage and kids thing wasn't for him. He doesn't even like the bunnies to stay the night. Tucker's loyalty has always been and always will be to the Spartan Riders. Or it was until a sultry, little blonde walked into the bar.

The last thing Talia McKinnon was looking for when transfer jobs across country was love. Any chances Talia had at that were ruined by her ex-husband. But when her new job presents the chance to get down and dirty with a sexy-as-sin biker, Talia jumps at the chance. Why not mix work with pleasure, if doing so will satisfy all of her needs?

While Tucker and his brother's are trying to get a step ahead in a dangerous game, Talia is searching for answers to a mystery she needs to uncover. Can their new relationship survive the jobs they're determined to do?

Just like the first book in the Spartan Riders series, Mettle was an intense, sexy ride. The suspense kept me on edge almost the entire time. I knew that once Tucker found out the truth behind Talia's job, things were going to get tense. I never imagine the entire story would have me in a state of anticipation! There were other twist and turns I didn't see coming. I was completely surprised a couple of times while reading.

Mettle wasn't just all suspense, though. There was another kind of tension at play, too. Sexual tension. The sexual connection between Talia and Tucker was very carnal and a little bit kinky. I was definitely fanning myself! There was also a sweet side to their relationship. Both had feelings for each other quickly that went deeper. Neither of them was willing to admit that their relationship went anything beyond the physical for a while, but I loved the way they both were secretly falling for each other. I enjoyed the comfortable way they were with each other.

I would highly recommend Mettle to readers who enjoy MC romances or the Romantic Suspense genre. It was definitely filled with several steamy scenes and a whole lot of action. I would suggest reading the first Spartan Riders novel, GRIT, before reading Mettle, though; it sets up a major part of this story.

**I received an ARC from IndieSage Promotions in exchange for an unbiased review.
Profile Image for Books Laid Bare.
2,275 reviews37 followers
July 26, 2016
Hold on to your hats ladies because from the get-go you are in for one heck of a ride!
There is just something about the way JC Valentine writes that has me weak at the knees, I’m not sure if it is the intensity that she able to portray, the depth with which she is able to not only shade her characters but their situations or the element of WTF that she never ceases to have me throwing around like confetti but whatever it is…may she long continue because this had me hook, line and sinker!
So now I have gotten that little outburst off my chest what about the book?
Well, Mettle might be book two but there was no follow up going on here, this was about two characters that had life and each other by the throat and neither of them felt like loosening their grip!
Country, aka Tucker is a man’s man, a biker to the death but that isn’t all he is, everything he is, is kept well contained inside what I have to say is a formidable physique…this guy was stacked…and I was swooning! He wanted many things in life but a relationship, nope not happening not in this lifetime anyway…well, we will soon see about that Mr Sexy A$$.
I fought my own feelings when it came to Tucker, he was so complicated and I don’t think that was just me that he confused the heck out of, he did it to himself! I could have seriously kicked his butt at times.
But I needed have worried because with Talia…this powerhouse was about to get brought to his knees. Lord this woman was fantastic!
Talia let nothing and no-one stand in her way, you do so at your peril and that is true for the guy that was able to push all her buttons, because good and bad, he had them all mastered!
But could she make him see that she was more than he ever thought he needed?
There is more going on in the book than just two bada$$’s doing everything they can to try and work out where the heck the journey they are on is taking them, because the ride was certainly a bumpy one. Talia has secrets, ones that when they are revealed could very well change everything …but will they?
I like the fact that the MC itself was the constant, the undercurrent that everything was seeded into, the guys and their women, the fight to keep the bad guys at bay and the day to day life that this band of brothers had forged for themselves.
This is on ride you will not want to end!
Profile Image for FMR Book Grind.
2,189 reviews125 followers
July 27, 2016
ERIN'S REVIEW
4.5 STARS

Holy Hotness Batman! This book should be rated X for the super HOT scenes between Talia and Country. Warning: you will need clean undies! This storyline flowed right along from Grit (Book 1). Talia is a woman torn between duty and what she longs for. She is a strong woman who doesn’t back down from anything. She stands up for herself and what she believes in. Country is a great character. He is very sure in himself. He knows who he is, and what he can bring to the table. What he doesn’t want is to ever settle down, but Talia is going to show him the errors in his thinking. These two together provide some explosive scenes that will make your toes curl. The drama and plot twists provide the other two ingredients to keep your nose firmly planted in this book. I can’t wait to see what happens next!


KIM'S REVIEW
4 STARS

I am a huge fan of this author. From the moment you open one of her books, J.C Valentine has the talent to transport you into the world that she has created. I never fail to get lost inside the pages of her books.
Mettle is not one of your typical MC books. It's raw and gritty, but not from the insight of MC life, but from the feels given as the players work toward figuring out what it is exactly that they want from life.
Tucker 'Country' Abrams; now if there is a more relationship-aphobe out there, I wouldn't know where. Good grief this guy. Sometimes I wanted to hug him, other times I could have punched him in the throat just for being a guy.
Although Tuck does have the Alpha thing down in spades. He is yummy Ladies, so read this book at your own risk. You might just discover a new BBF.
Talia is kick a$$. She's tough and strong and she doesn't let a sexy, southern drawl get to her, (even though the drawl made her heart beat a little faster).
I loved the way this woman stood her ground and never took any crap off of anyone. Even the biggest scariest biker.
Although Talia has secrets...Big Secrets.
As Tuck and Talia not only navigate a budding relationship that neither is sure they want, and the bad guys get closer, will Talia's secrets make Tuck decide that he's right about all relationships, or will his heart convince him otherwise?
Mettle is a fast paced fun ride that will keep you spellbound until the end.
Profile Image for Jenny Harris.
4,400 reviews33 followers
July 25, 2016
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.

In this book we meet Talia and Tucker (Country) Abrams. Talia is an undercover FBI agent out to prove that the Spartan Riders are part of a rash of women being taken and sold into the sex slavery business. Talia is getting no where and finally sees and opening when Tucker comes out of the clubhouse and stares directly at her. When she follows him to the bar she things maybe she can get him drunk enough to talk but things progress a little farther than that. What happens when she starts to believe that the Spartan Riders aren't really the ones taking all those women? Will she be able to get it all or will her job cause her to loose everything she never knew she could possibly have?

Tucker is the love em and leave em type of guy. One night is all he really is willing to give a woman. However he makes the mistake with one of the club bunnies by showing her just a little to much attention so showing her the door is a little harder than he thought it would be. Tucker doesn't realize it but he is about to be hit with a second woman he never thought he would want. When Talia comes up to him in the bar he likes the way she looks and so he thinks he can have her for a night and be done with her. When she beats him to the punch with all his own lines he wants her even more. Can the single man Tuck really have fallen for this mysterious woman or will he loose it all with his inability to really be with the woman of his dreams.

This is an amazing story about two people with secrets and how they navigate the beginnings of a relationship that neither will admit to having. This is an awesome MC book you really need to read book one "Grit" though because the author has bad guy Ricky Cruiz back for another round of trouble in this book. Is he the man that the feds are after or is there another club trying to cause trouble for the Spartan Riders? Someone needs to find out quick before more women are taken and more lives are on the line. There are so many things I want to tell you about this story but don't want to ruin any of the secrets in this book for other readers. I will say this has an amazing strong female lead character as well as some rockin MC guys. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.
Profile Image for Angela.
3,398 reviews33 followers
July 18, 2016
A fast paced, highly entertaining book you won't want to miss! An intriguing storyline, interesting characters, hilarious banter and crazy antics that will have you laughing out loud, smokin' hot sex that will leave you breathless, angst, suspense, betrayal, and many surprise twists that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. This was a fantastic book and a great addition to this amazing series!

Tuck, aka Country, was looking for a new purpose in life after years in the military, and found a new home with the Spartan Riders MC. He has always prided himself as a ladies man, avoiding commitment at all cost, until her. Talia has one purpose, help find those responsible for the human trafficking of the countless missing women. Her job, as an agent of the FBI, is to go undercover to get close to the Spartan Riders MC, and find the evidence needed to stop them. When she meets Tuck in a bar, she decides that she'll have to get close to him to try and find the answers.

Neither of them realize that what starts out as fun, is going to change both of their lives. Will she be able to keep her professional and personal lives separate? Will either be able to let down their walls to see where their attraction may lead? What will happen to her investigation once she realizes that her doubts were right all along? What will happen when Tuck finds out about her lies and who she's working for?

J.C. Valentine is a very talented and creative author who has become one of my favorite. Her unique stories and down to earth characters create books that are compelling, as well as exceptional. If you haven't read this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. Not only will you get to read great stories, but learn more about the MC, each couple, and the adventures they go through. I promise you won't be disappointed! I strongly recommend this book, series, and amazing author!

I received an arc from the author in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,413 reviews6 followers
July 25, 2016
Nothing puts a damper on your love life like a divorce... and the minute Talia McKinnon signs the papers she takes love completely off the table, and blows outta town looking for a fresh new start. She is ready to let her heart heal, focus on herself for a while, and live life on her terms. The last thing on her mind right now is dating, or opening her heart to love again, that is until a sexy biker walks into her life...

Tucker Abrams loves women, but his entanglements with women are kept strictly on a "no strings attached" basis, and honestly he wouldn't have it any other way, relationships tend to be messy and would interfere with his dedication to the club. The men at his club are his brothers, and they always come first in his life, and he lay down his life for them, and they'd do the same for him. It is understood amongst them all that the club comes first, no matter the cost. But after Tucker begins spending a little too much time with his latest bed partner the club starts to question his loyalty, and wants him to let her go... but there's something about this one that has him wanting to say something he never thought he would... stay!

After finishing the first book in this series I was dying to get up close and personal with another member of the Spartan Riders, and meet my next book boyfriend. The minute Tucker waltzed onto to the page he had me at hello, his sexy swagger, dominating alpha tendencies, and silky smooth one liners had my heart beating, and my panties melting!! The man was seriously sexy, after reading the synopsis I suspected his story would be hot, but nothing could have prepared me for what I found... it had everything you could possibly want in a romance story and much more!! He definitely gave Blake a run for his money as my favorite Spartan Rider!!! I highly recommend you get your hands on this book and take a little time to acquaint yourself with Tucker, the man will set your world on fire, and leave you wishing for a sexy biker of your very own!!!

ARC requested given by IndieSage PR in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Georgie.
377 reviews15 followers
July 27, 2016
***ARC received for an honest review***

Here's as honest as I can be...receiving this arc had me reading Grit and Mettle in pretty much one sitting!

These stories were sooo good! I loved every second of them both!

Mettle was about Tucker and Talia and the heat between these two was off the charts!

I loved Tucker!
He was crude and funny but straight up!
He called it like it was and that was all there was to it!

He had been through his fair share of MC "Bunnies" but he was just so different with Talia and nothing gets me going more than a main leading man who doesn't even realize he is treating his lady with a higher regard than any other in the past!

description


Tuckers feelings for Talia seemed to be as much a surprise to him more than anyone else!

I loved this book!

It was well written and there were a couple twists that we, as readers, were privy to that the characters were not.

Talia had a secret that she was keeping from Tucker and it was one of those make or break type secrets so you know from the onset that this one is going to be good!

I would recommend this book and the series to anyone with a need to get down and dirty with a foul talking hot AF biker and a ballsy chick who won't let anything or anyone get in the way of what needs to be done!

This book even sees a couple chapters included for our Book one faves Blake and Gabby - I love an author who is able to intertwine her characters and keep their stories going long into the next book! Not to mention an author who is able to set the scene for the next book and the characters it will revolve around...awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great read, Great book Great author!

Pretty simple really - you'd be missing out by not reading this series that for sure!!!!

5 stars for a great book!!!!
Profile Image for Hanne.
661 reviews72 followers
July 27, 2016
I’ve met some amazing bikers in the first book of this series, Grit. I wanted each biker’s story and it’s time for Tucker “Country” to fall in love.

There are several women missing and the police knows that someone is selling those women. They think the Spartan Riders are involved and use an agent undercover. When that agent goes dark, Talia needs to find out more and goes undercover. She is watching the club house of the Spartans when a biker leaves. She follows him to a bar and talks to him.

Tucker was enjoying his beer and hoped to find a woman in the bar when a beautiful woman, Talia, sits next to him. He takes her home and they spend the night together. Talia looks around his room when Tucker isn’t around. She can’t find a thing that connects him to the human trafficking. She actually thinks that the other bikers are good men, but her boss doesn’t believe her. Tucker and Talia spend more and more time together.

Tucker never wanted a relationship so he didn’t plan to sleep more than one time with Talia, but he changed his mind. The more time he spends with her, the more he likes her. He becomes very protective of her and a little possessive even. He wants more. Talia didn’t have much luck at love in the past and knows Tucker’s reputation, so she tries to suppress her feeling. She tries hard, but she fails. Her work keeps her in contact with Tucker and she wants to do a great job. She wants to find those women. She is a smart, caring woman.

It was great to read more about Gabby and Blake and little Ash. Gabby and Blake are still going strong. The ending of Grit left me a little unsatisfied (just like in this book) and the villain in that book is also the villain is this book. You can read both book as a standalone. The other bikers also play a role and I will definitely read the next biker’s story!

-- ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! --
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