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Bad Boys Undercover #1
Playing Dirty
As an elite Alliance agent - the joint undercover operation of MI6, the British Secret Intelligence Service, and the CIA - Ford Decker lives for the adrenaline. But when he befriends sexy property manager Shay Alexander in hopes of finding her cousin, a known national security threat, Ford crosses the line, getting to know her better... in bed.
After being burned by her last relationship, Shay wants to take things slow. Yet she can't keep her hands off the drop-dead gorgeous hottie who's moved into her apartment building. So when Ford's identity as an undercover agent is exposed, his betrayal cuts deep. Shay never wants to see him again, but Ford can't let her go, not when her life is still in danger. He will sacrifice everything to protect her, then be prepared to walk away from the only woman he's ever loved, even if it breaks him.
After being burned by her last relationship, Shay wants to take things slow. Yet she can't keep her hands off the drop-dead gorgeous hottie who's moved into her apartment building. So when Ford's identity as an undercover agent is exposed, his betrayal cuts deep. Shay never wants to see him again, but Ford can't let her go, not when her life is still in danger. He will sacrifice everything to protect her, then be prepared to walk away from the only woman he's ever loved, even if it breaks him.
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First published January 27, 2015
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About the author
HelenKay Dimon
167 books990 followersHelenKay Dimon is a divorce lawyer-turned-romance author. After dedicating years to helping people terminate relationships she now writes romance novels full time. Her books have earned praise, appeared on bestseller lists, won numerous awards and twice been named Red-Hot Reads and excerpted in Cosmo. She sometimes writes erotic romance, sometimes writes romantic suspense and sometimes writes contemporary romance. But no matter what she's writing her books are always filled with smart banter and sexy times, and a HEA is guaranteed.
-"Sharp writing and plenty of sexy romantic sizzle..." - John Charles, Chicago Tribune
-"So smart, sexy and fast-paced, I devour her stories." - Lori Foster, NYT bestselling author
-"Lots of heat with lots of humor." - MaryJanice Davidson, NYT bestselling author
-"She's a delight." - Christina Dodd, NYT bestselling author
-"Sharp writing and plenty of sexy romantic sizzle..." - John Charles, Chicago Tribune
-"So smart, sexy and fast-paced, I devour her stories." - Lori Foster, NYT bestselling author
-"Lots of heat with lots of humor." - MaryJanice Davidson, NYT bestselling author
-"She's a delight." - Christina Dodd, NYT bestselling author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
February 22, 2016
Review now posted...
Terrorists and traitors and spies, oh my!
Playing Dirty is the first book in HelenKay Dimon’s Bad Boys Undercover series and it’s a sexy, fast paced tale. There’s a whodunit type mystery involved with lots of twists and turns.
Ford and Shay are great characters, both with pasts they can’t seem to leave there – in the past. They’re attracted to each other and their sexual chemistry is off the charts, but they just can’t seem to … trust or open their hearts to one another. I suppose that makes sense on Ford’s part given that Shay is an unwitting player in his mission to find a potentially deadly ‘terrorist’, not someone he should be falling in love with.
I truly enjoyed Playing Dirty. The world Ms. Dimon has created is more than a little exciting and definitely intriguing. Then, add-in the amazing cast and this is a series not to be missed!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciating I’m giving them an honest review.
Terrorists and traitors and spies, oh my!
Playing Dirty is the first book in HelenKay Dimon’s Bad Boys Undercover series and it’s a sexy, fast paced tale. There’s a whodunit type mystery involved with lots of twists and turns.
Ford and Shay are great characters, both with pasts they can’t seem to leave there – in the past. They’re attracted to each other and their sexual chemistry is off the charts, but they just can’t seem to … trust or open their hearts to one another. I suppose that makes sense on Ford’s part given that Shay is an unwitting player in his mission to find a potentially deadly ‘terrorist’, not someone he should be falling in love with.
I truly enjoyed Playing Dirty. The world Ms. Dimon has created is more than a little exciting and definitely intriguing. Then, add-in the amazing cast and this is a series not to be missed!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciating I’m giving them an honest review.
February 9, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
4 Stars!
After reading the novella that starts this series, Running Hot, I jumped at the chance to first full length novel in the series. I have always enjoyed a fast paced, exciting romantic suspense and this story did not disappoint. As with most romantic suspense stories, there were more than a few things that happen in this story that go beyond realistic but I was more than satisfied with this highly entertaining novel.
Ford is an Alliance agent, which is similar to a CIA agent. He often finds himself in very dangerous situations and frequently works undercover. He is tasked with the assignment of trying to get information from the suspect's cousin, Shay. The book opens with Ford already working on his undercover assignment - Shay.
Shay works as a property manager for her uncle. She has started seeing the new tenant and is unsure of their status, but starts to let Ford into her life more and more and time passes. Not only does Shay have a new man in her life to worry about, she is incredibly worried about her cousin who she has not heard from recently.
This book had a lot of action and excellent pacing. I really liked Shay a lot and thought she was an excellent character. She doesn't try to pressure Ford into any kind of relationship and is willing to accept what he has to offer. Ford's character changed depending on his role. I loved Ford's personality anytime he spent time with Shay. I didn't like the fact that he spent a lot of time misleading her but that was part of his job. When Ford was on the job, he seemed tough, competent, but argumentative and not quite as likable.
I liked the chemistry between Ford and Shay. It was obvious that Shay had become much more than a job quite early in the book. I thought the story was well written and I absolutely loved the scenes with Ward and Tasha. I would recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense. I can't wait to read the next installment in this fast paced series.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
4 Stars!
After reading the novella that starts this series, Running Hot, I jumped at the chance to first full length novel in the series. I have always enjoyed a fast paced, exciting romantic suspense and this story did not disappoint. As with most romantic suspense stories, there were more than a few things that happen in this story that go beyond realistic but I was more than satisfied with this highly entertaining novel.
Ford is an Alliance agent, which is similar to a CIA agent. He often finds himself in very dangerous situations and frequently works undercover. He is tasked with the assignment of trying to get information from the suspect's cousin, Shay. The book opens with Ford already working on his undercover assignment - Shay.
Shay works as a property manager for her uncle. She has started seeing the new tenant and is unsure of their status, but starts to let Ford into her life more and more and time passes. Not only does Shay have a new man in her life to worry about, she is incredibly worried about her cousin who she has not heard from recently.
This book had a lot of action and excellent pacing. I really liked Shay a lot and thought she was an excellent character. She doesn't try to pressure Ford into any kind of relationship and is willing to accept what he has to offer. Ford's character changed depending on his role. I loved Ford's personality anytime he spent time with Shay. I didn't like the fact that he spent a lot of time misleading her but that was part of his job. When Ford was on the job, he seemed tough, competent, but argumentative and not quite as likable.
I liked the chemistry between Ford and Shay. It was obvious that Shay had become much more than a job quite early in the book. I thought the story was well written and I absolutely loved the scenes with Ward and Tasha. I would recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense. I can't wait to read the next installment in this fast paced series.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
February 19, 2015
ARC generously provided by the publisher via edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
Rating~ 3.5 stars
Ford Decker/Adam Ford is on a undercover mission to find the man that has a stolen a deadly toxin with no cure. He is the leader for the team Barvo of the Alliance agency. Ford left the CIA and joined the Alliance after his partner was murdered. Her really doesn’t like the boundaries messing with his operation and has problems with authority.
Shay alexander is a property manager for her uncle. Unknown to her, her genius cousin is the one who stole the toxin. She recently found that the guy she had been dating was only getting close to her to get close to her uncle for his money and status.
Ford was supposed to keep a watch on Shay not get in bed with her or have a relationship with her but he couldn’t help himself. He really liked her. For Shay, it was only supposed to be a fling because of the fiasco with her but now months later Shay wants more than Ford disappearing but doesn’t know how to tell him.
I did think Shay was a bit naive in the way that she saw all the signs yet ignored them believing Ford what he said especially after she visited his cando a couple of times and saw the state of it and because of what happened with her ex. She should have shown a bit more mistrust.
The action part of the book was quite heavy in the book because of which the romance suffered a bit but it was ultimately ok since that part kept me interested to know what was going to happen next. The whole crime fighting thing is one thing apart from romance that I really enjoy watching and reading.
I did like Shay and Ford together, he was sweet and protective of her and she was caring and understanding towards a guy who she thought loved his work and had a thing for weird t-shifts such as piglets playing poker or possums.
Quibbles: Maybe it’s just me but Ford and his team literally threatened everyone, talked about death so causally and I didn’t understand Ford’s issue with the Brit’s or Harlan. Ford and his team also this issue of not following orders given to them by their bosses which I find disconcerting because I don’t you should have an operative in the field that is a wild card or could disregard orders which doesn’t suit him. I also wanted a lot more groveling from Ford after all he did lie to her for months and not just about his career but everything else as well. Lastly, I would have loved a flashback to when Shay and Ford first met and an epilogue.
Overall, it was a pretty decent read and I will definitely be reading more books from the author. Happy Reading!
P.s Whats the deal with the cover on the guy, he kinds looks like Adrian Pasdar you know the guy who played Nathan Petrelli in Heroes.
Rating~ 3.5 stars
Ford Decker/Adam Ford is on a undercover mission to find the man that has a stolen a deadly toxin with no cure. He is the leader for the team Barvo of the Alliance agency. Ford left the CIA and joined the Alliance after his partner was murdered. Her really doesn’t like the boundaries messing with his operation and has problems with authority.
Shay alexander is a property manager for her uncle. Unknown to her, her genius cousin is the one who stole the toxin. She recently found that the guy she had been dating was only getting close to her to get close to her uncle for his money and status.
Ford was supposed to keep a watch on Shay not get in bed with her or have a relationship with her but he couldn’t help himself. He really liked her. For Shay, it was only supposed to be a fling because of the fiasco with her but now months later Shay wants more than Ford disappearing but doesn’t know how to tell him.
I did think Shay was a bit naive in the way that she saw all the signs yet ignored them believing Ford what he said especially after she visited his cando a couple of times and saw the state of it and because of what happened with her ex. She should have shown a bit more mistrust.
The action part of the book was quite heavy in the book because of which the romance suffered a bit but it was ultimately ok since that part kept me interested to know what was going to happen next. The whole crime fighting thing is one thing apart from romance that I really enjoy watching and reading.
I did like Shay and Ford together, he was sweet and protective of her and she was caring and understanding towards a guy who she thought loved his work and had a thing for weird t-shifts such as piglets playing poker or possums.
Quibbles: Maybe it’s just me but Ford and his team literally threatened everyone, talked about death so causally and I didn’t understand Ford’s issue with the Brit’s or Harlan. Ford and his team also this issue of not following orders given to them by their bosses which I find disconcerting because I don’t you should have an operative in the field that is a wild card or could disregard orders which doesn’t suit him. I also wanted a lot more groveling from Ford after all he did lie to her for months and not just about his career but everything else as well. Lastly, I would have loved a flashback to when Shay and Ford first met and an epilogue.
Overall, it was a pretty decent read and I will definitely be reading more books from the author. Happy Reading!
P.s Whats the deal with the cover on the guy, he kinds looks like Adrian Pasdar you know the guy who played Nathan Petrelli in Heroes.
July 26, 2015
DNF read 97 pages and the last few pages.
I want character development and relationship development, but this felt like TV style action writing - good guys hunting bad guys. It’s a cardboard story. Nothing pulled me in.
Page 17: the author skipped how Shay and Ford met and how they began having sex. She just tells (not shows) that they met 3 weeks earlier and sex started 2 days after they met. Boring.
Page 44: more telling not showing. Author says Shay’s friends joked about her making him up, she moved plans around, she never brought Ford to meet them. Very unsatisfying.
Page 46: Ford invites Shay to dinner and the scene stops. It doesn’t show them going to dinner. It skips to next scene with Ford hunting bad guys in Paris.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 370 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but not often used. Sexual language: mild in first sex scene. Number of sex scenes: don’t know. Setting: current day various locations US and Europe. Copyright: 2015. Genre: romantic suspense.
I want character development and relationship development, but this felt like TV style action writing - good guys hunting bad guys. It’s a cardboard story. Nothing pulled me in.
Page 17: the author skipped how Shay and Ford met and how they began having sex. She just tells (not shows) that they met 3 weeks earlier and sex started 2 days after they met. Boring.
Page 44: more telling not showing. Author says Shay’s friends joked about her making him up, she moved plans around, she never brought Ford to meet them. Very unsatisfying.
Page 46: Ford invites Shay to dinner and the scene stops. It doesn’t show them going to dinner. It skips to next scene with Ford hunting bad guys in Paris.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 370 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but not often used. Sexual language: mild in first sex scene. Number of sex scenes: don’t know. Setting: current day various locations US and Europe. Copyright: 2015. Genre: romantic suspense.
February 6, 2015
Gripping Suspense, and Sizzling Sex...Who could ask for more?
PLAYING DIRTY is the perfect title for this New Romance Suspense by HelenKay Dimon, the first full novel in the Bad Boys Undercover Series released through Avon Romance. Ford is forced to "Play Dirty" with Shay in more ways than one...and the "fun" ways are off the charts smokin hot, their chemistry literally burns the pages!
The not so fun part of the "Playing" and "Dirty" comes back to bite Ford in the ass, with Shay in the middle of the Op, what can you do when the woman who you have fallen for finds out you're not the man who she thought you were, and her personal life is falling apart at the seams. The emotions run deep in PLAYING DIRTY, yes, the suspense is spot on and the action is jam packed, but HelenKay brings on the emotion full force with PLAYING DIRTY and I loved it!
Romance Suspense fans...PLAYING DIRTY is a Must Read!!
PLAYING DIRTY is the perfect title for this New Romance Suspense by HelenKay Dimon, the first full novel in the Bad Boys Undercover Series released through Avon Romance. Ford is forced to "Play Dirty" with Shay in more ways than one...and the "fun" ways are off the charts smokin hot, their chemistry literally burns the pages!
The not so fun part of the "Playing" and "Dirty" comes back to bite Ford in the ass, with Shay in the middle of the Op, what can you do when the woman who you have fallen for finds out you're not the man who she thought you were, and her personal life is falling apart at the seams. The emotions run deep in PLAYING DIRTY, yes, the suspense is spot on and the action is jam packed, but HelenKay brings on the emotion full force with PLAYING DIRTY and I loved it!
Romance Suspense fans...PLAYING DIRTY is a Must Read!!
January 20, 2015
****Full Review****
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Commanding men, sinister terrorist plot, sexy bedroom scenes, and double dealing all lead to a romantic suspense story that is hot in more ways than one. Ford is former CIA now working for a very off the books government group called Alliance. Alliance also includes former MI6 and other tips of the spear military members. Coming off of a botched mission, Ford the leader of Bravo team is doing a little undercover work to get close to Shay, the cousin to a suspected terrorist. They have instant chemistry and Ford finds himself getting a lot closer to Shay than he originally anticipated. As missing deadly toxin vials and cat and mouse games with deadly consequences swirl around them, Ford is forced to decide what he'll compromise to keep Shay safe and Shay is left questioning if the man she loves is the true Ford.
This is an incredibly quick moving story; key players are constantly making moves that keep you turning the pages anxious to see where it is all going to lead. The strength is definitely in the suspense plot with the reader wondering how much is Shay's cousin really involved in the terrorist plot and who the mole is. Although, in the beginning when all the members of Alliance are kind of clustery thrust at the reader and who is who is being learned, things were a little muddled but about thirty percent in I was able to get into the flow of the story. Alliance and its members is the central core of the story with the terrorist plot/mole and Ford's romance with Shay branching off of that. Ford and Shay's relationship is strong throughout the story but they definitely get lost in the mix at times. Individuals looking for some romance in their suspense stories will fare better here than those looking for the vice versa.
As this is told from more of Ford's perspective he is the stronger character. He has a realness and ease that will have reader's instantly connecting with him. Also, let's be honest, his capability in and out of the bedroom and the way he loves Shay will have him starring in a couple of fantasies. Due to all of these strong components, the character of Shay doesn't pack much of a punch. Her limited screen time interactions with Ford consisting of a lot of sexual foreplay/activity and musings if Ford is trustworthy leave her relegated to the background. They are hot together but the fact that Shay doesn't discover who Ford is until very late in the book leave her an outsider to the story and the reader.
The introduction of all the characters might overwhelm you at first but as you get to know them, you'll be secretly wishing for each and everyone to get their own story. It's a well crafted, thought out, intriguing characters, with sex scenes that are on point book. If Playing Dirty is any indication to what the rest of the books in the Bad Boys Undercover series are going to be like, then sign me up for them all.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Commanding men, sinister terrorist plot, sexy bedroom scenes, and double dealing all lead to a romantic suspense story that is hot in more ways than one. Ford is former CIA now working for a very off the books government group called Alliance. Alliance also includes former MI6 and other tips of the spear military members. Coming off of a botched mission, Ford the leader of Bravo team is doing a little undercover work to get close to Shay, the cousin to a suspected terrorist. They have instant chemistry and Ford finds himself getting a lot closer to Shay than he originally anticipated. As missing deadly toxin vials and cat and mouse games with deadly consequences swirl around them, Ford is forced to decide what he'll compromise to keep Shay safe and Shay is left questioning if the man she loves is the true Ford.
This is an incredibly quick moving story; key players are constantly making moves that keep you turning the pages anxious to see where it is all going to lead. The strength is definitely in the suspense plot with the reader wondering how much is Shay's cousin really involved in the terrorist plot and who the mole is. Although, in the beginning when all the members of Alliance are kind of clustery thrust at the reader and who is who is being learned, things were a little muddled but about thirty percent in I was able to get into the flow of the story. Alliance and its members is the central core of the story with the terrorist plot/mole and Ford's romance with Shay branching off of that. Ford and Shay's relationship is strong throughout the story but they definitely get lost in the mix at times. Individuals looking for some romance in their suspense stories will fare better here than those looking for the vice versa.
As this is told from more of Ford's perspective he is the stronger character. He has a realness and ease that will have reader's instantly connecting with him. Also, let's be honest, his capability in and out of the bedroom and the way he loves Shay will have him starring in a couple of fantasies. Due to all of these strong components, the character of Shay doesn't pack much of a punch. Her limited screen time interactions with Ford consisting of a lot of sexual foreplay/activity and musings if Ford is trustworthy leave her relegated to the background. They are hot together but the fact that Shay doesn't discover who Ford is until very late in the book leave her an outsider to the story and the reader.
The introduction of all the characters might overwhelm you at first but as you get to know them, you'll be secretly wishing for each and everyone to get their own story. It's a well crafted, thought out, intriguing characters, with sex scenes that are on point book. If Playing Dirty is any indication to what the rest of the books in the Bad Boys Undercover series are going to be like, then sign me up for them all.
April 23, 2015
2.5 Stars; I struggled with all the 4 letter names, between Ford, West and Ward, I was confused at times and would have to stop and think who was who and what they were to do. I also didn't feel Ford and Shay's romance because by the time the scene started, Ford had been in place for a couple of weeks and already sleeping with Shay. It was just sex to me. Now having said that, I feel that the series has potential and I would like to read about some of the characters coming up. P.S. Sleeping with someone to gain information left me with a slimy feel, hence some of my rating.
March 22, 2015
Deep undercover work is never as conflicted as when a suspect becomes a lover. Ford Decker is a secret agent working a dangerous case. His cover is a computer fix it guy which Shay Alexander buys easily. Shay is a property manager who is befriended by sexy Ford. Even though Ford is supposed to not get mixed up with Shay, somehow he ends up in her bed. This is premise that has train wreck written all over it. It is never good to find out one is being played. In this situation, Shay is being used as a means to an end - finding her missing genius cousin.
The story is attention grabbing. Ms. Dimon is a new to me author and one I'm adding on my list of authors I enjoy reading and will follow. This romantic suspense is a nice balance between romance and the thrill of spying suspense. The male agents in this elite covert ops group are alpha and sexy. It's an attractive combination many female readers will appreciate. Whilst there are plenty of books hitting the shelves in this genre, Ms. Dimon will be one which stands out, similar to author Maya Banks. This is because Ms. Dimon creates good solid characters as well as an engaging story. The intrigue in this book isn't simple and it's not convoluted with impossible situations.
This book moves at a good pace. The sex scenes are slow and romantic. The suspense scenes are intense and fast paced - just how I like them. The characters are also snarky which is always a win for me.
Ward didn’t hesitate, probably because he knew the team viewed silence as approval.
“You can’t kill him.”
“The word you’re looking for is ‘shouldn’t.’ ”
West took up his usual position, slightly away from the group and leaning against the wall.
“I really could do it.” (kindle loc. 2687-2690)
When do we get to learn more about West? Because this is hilarious to me. Just sociopathic enough to pull me in and want to learn more. Dangerous is quite sexy. This book is recommended to romantic suspense lovers who enjoy Maya Banks and Suzanne Brockmann.
*provided by Edelweiss
The story is attention grabbing. Ms. Dimon is a new to me author and one I'm adding on my list of authors I enjoy reading and will follow. This romantic suspense is a nice balance between romance and the thrill of spying suspense. The male agents in this elite covert ops group are alpha and sexy. It's an attractive combination many female readers will appreciate. Whilst there are plenty of books hitting the shelves in this genre, Ms. Dimon will be one which stands out, similar to author Maya Banks. This is because Ms. Dimon creates good solid characters as well as an engaging story. The intrigue in this book isn't simple and it's not convoluted with impossible situations.
This book moves at a good pace. The sex scenes are slow and romantic. The suspense scenes are intense and fast paced - just how I like them. The characters are also snarky which is always a win for me.
Ward didn’t hesitate, probably because he knew the team viewed silence as approval.
“You can’t kill him.”
“The word you’re looking for is ‘shouldn’t.’ ”
West took up his usual position, slightly away from the group and leaning against the wall.
“I really could do it.” (kindle loc. 2687-2690)
When do we get to learn more about West? Because this is hilarious to me. Just sociopathic enough to pull me in and want to learn more. Dangerous is quite sexy. This book is recommended to romantic suspense lovers who enjoy Maya Banks and Suzanne Brockmann.
*provided by Edelweiss
sampled
August 28, 2015This is a note to myself. It's not, nor is intended as, a review.
Kindle deal, and reading the reviews I understand why the need of a push. Plenty of Dnf or meh. I read the sample to see if I might have been interested enough to buy.
I'm not. The sample was too bland, and had already two wth moments: heroine had sex with hero 2 days after meeting him and military hero passing as IT. Yep, I can sooo see an elite military soldier as a nerd. Nope. Have you ever worked in IT? Snort. Not all nerds are, well, nerd stereotypes, but there's quite a difference between someone who keeps himself fit, and military fit. I know from experience :)
And I have no problems with hookups, but I need to see the reasons for this. (The 'no shit in your house' rule should otherwise apply.)
March 13, 2019
Not sure how I feel about this one... You can check out Kimberly's review of this title though at Reading Between the Wines Book Club!
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March 25, 2023
3.5*
Ford is an undercover agent with the "Alliance." They are an off the book joint venture of the CIA and MI6. When we first meet Ford, he is at an op that doesn't go as planned (do they have a mole???). In the next chapter, he is in a sexual relationship with Shay, who is a person of interest in an Alliance investigation. The Alliance suspects her cousin of terrorism.
This (kinda) didn't work for me. My main issue was with Ford and Shay's lightening fast sexual relationship and that fact she had no idea (none whatsoever) who Ford really was. I thought it was unethical and created a huge conflict of interest. However, once I got to "know" them as a couple, I did like both of them.
There is a decent amount of action in this one too. I liked the writing and the interaction between the various characters.
Ford is an undercover agent with the "Alliance." They are an off the book joint venture of the CIA and MI6. When we first meet Ford, he is at an op that doesn't go as planned (do they have a mole???). In the next chapter, he is in a sexual relationship with Shay, who is a person of interest in an Alliance investigation. The Alliance suspects her cousin of terrorism.
This (kinda) didn't work for me. My main issue was with Ford and Shay's lightening fast sexual relationship and that fact she had no idea (none whatsoever) who Ford really was. I thought it was unethical and created a huge conflict of interest. However, once I got to "know" them as a couple, I did like both of them.
There is a decent amount of action in this one too. I liked the writing and the interaction between the various characters.
September 17, 2016
I didn't finish this book, but it's not because I didn't like it. I just renewed it too many times and the library wanted it back!
What I love most about this book is the heroine, Shay. She's not a virgin, and she never pretends that she's not interested in sex. She wants a relationship with the hero and she is honest about it, but she doesn't pretend she isn't enjoying all the sex in the meantime. She's so different from the annoying virgins that most authors still need to put into their stories.
I liked Ford okay, but the plot of the book was a distraction. There's something really annoying to me about these books that feature "top secret" government agents who are so secret that government itself can't actually control them. What I especially disliked was the way that Ford and his bodies run around acting like corrupt cops in Chicago or LA, i.e., holding suspects without charges, beating them, extorting confessions, etc. all in the name of "homeland security." The author doesn't even bother to defend these actions, or to describe their long range consequences for society, or even their emotional impact on the hero. She just thinks this stuff "builds the hero up" the same way a duke just has to have his own castle and his own membership at White's. But I was pretty disturbed by the whole thing.
Over all, though, I'm still giving this book four stars because Shay was such a kick ass heroine, and because I really liked Ward and Tasha. Does anyone know if they have a book of their own yet?
What I love most about this book is the heroine, Shay. She's not a virgin, and she never pretends that she's not interested in sex. She wants a relationship with the hero and she is honest about it, but she doesn't pretend she isn't enjoying all the sex in the meantime. She's so different from the annoying virgins that most authors still need to put into their stories.
I liked Ford okay, but the plot of the book was a distraction. There's something really annoying to me about these books that feature "top secret" government agents who are so secret that government itself can't actually control them. What I especially disliked was the way that Ford and his bodies run around acting like corrupt cops in Chicago or LA, i.e., holding suspects without charges, beating them, extorting confessions, etc. all in the name of "homeland security." The author doesn't even bother to defend these actions, or to describe their long range consequences for society, or even their emotional impact on the hero. She just thinks this stuff "builds the hero up" the same way a duke just has to have his own castle and his own membership at White's. But I was pretty disturbed by the whole thing.
Over all, though, I'm still giving this book four stars because Shay was such a kick ass heroine, and because I really liked Ward and Tasha. Does anyone know if they have a book of their own yet?
Read
January 1, 2024Huh. This is tough to review... This book is... fast paced, maybe too much so... there's lots of spicy scenes, which I love, but these lack any sort of hotness somehow... there's a betrayal that is the whole set up of the story that we're waiting for, and how that is going to mess things up, and that too is just kind of underwhelming when it happens and how it resolves.
There are multiple points of view, which I don't mind, but somehow in this story, it means that things ping pong around so we don't get a deeper sense of what's happening. Not that I want an endless internal musing, but this was just too shallow. We get a glimpse into what they're thinking... some other reviewer said it felt like watching a tv show or a movie, and that person kinda nailed it, it's surface-y. I didn't really care about these characters, or the crushing betrayal that was waiting for the female lead... This story also begins with the two main characters already weeks into their f*ckfest. Soooo we miss the meet cute, if they had any reservations about this but juuuuust couldn't stop themselves... aka the good stuff. Lots of big jumps forward in the story, quick passes over things that could have been developed more.
I can see why some would like this book. It's a spy/hero thriller/romance and those are hard to come by, but I wanted this to be way better than it was.
Listened to Audiobook - Narrated by Christian Fox
There are multiple points of view, which I don't mind, but somehow in this story, it means that things ping pong around so we don't get a deeper sense of what's happening. Not that I want an endless internal musing, but this was just too shallow. We get a glimpse into what they're thinking... some other reviewer said it felt like watching a tv show or a movie, and that person kinda nailed it, it's surface-y. I didn't really care about these characters, or the crushing betrayal that was waiting for the female lead... This story also begins with the two main characters already weeks into their f*ckfest. Soooo we miss the meet cute, if they had any reservations about this but juuuuust couldn't stop themselves... aka the good stuff. Lots of big jumps forward in the story, quick passes over things that could have been developed more.
I can see why some would like this book. It's a spy/hero thriller/romance and those are hard to come by, but I wanted this to be way better than it was.
Listened to Audiobook - Narrated by Christian Fox
February 15, 2015
I closed Playing Dirty as a did not finish at approximately 30% and a little over 100 pages.
There are a few things I expect when I go into any romance novel. I want the love story, the romance. The first time Ford and Shay are on the pages together (opening chapter 2) they have been sleeping together for a few weeks. As a reader this was a huge disappointment. I have no idea how he charmed himself into her life. I just know he is there. This would not have bothered me in a novella length read. With the amount of pages of a full length novel I wanted the full details of the initial meet and greet.
The odd flow didn’t stop there. I was robbed of the heat and passion that led up to the first sex scene. Chapter 8 open mid scene with Shay riding her way to bliss. It would have been nice to read the romance that keeps Shay and Ford in bed together. I’m told plenty that they are over the moon attracted to each other. I didn’t get to read the events that created these feelings.
By the time I chose to give up on this book Shay and Ford had been given a few pages where they were together interacting and giving me some dialogue to follow into their quasi relationship. At this point I just couldn’t care enough about how they get to their happily ever after. Considering I didn’t know how they even met and decided a roll in the bed (repeatedly for weeks) was a good idea.
There are a few things I expect when I go into any romance novel. I want the love story, the romance. The first time Ford and Shay are on the pages together (opening chapter 2) they have been sleeping together for a few weeks. As a reader this was a huge disappointment. I have no idea how he charmed himself into her life. I just know he is there. This would not have bothered me in a novella length read. With the amount of pages of a full length novel I wanted the full details of the initial meet and greet.
The odd flow didn’t stop there. I was robbed of the heat and passion that led up to the first sex scene. Chapter 8 open mid scene with Shay riding her way to bliss. It would have been nice to read the romance that keeps Shay and Ford in bed together. I’m told plenty that they are over the moon attracted to each other. I didn’t get to read the events that created these feelings.
By the time I chose to give up on this book Shay and Ford had been given a few pages where they were together interacting and giving me some dialogue to follow into their quasi relationship. At this point I just couldn’t care enough about how they get to their happily ever after. Considering I didn’t know how they even met and decided a roll in the bed (repeatedly for weeks) was a good idea.
August 15, 2015
Purchased this while it was cheap, read because camping.
The majority of the book is told from the hero's perspective so the emphasis of the book is on the action relating to Worldwide Doom Toxin. Periodically there's a sex scene between him and the heroine, who is his mark in this whole operation. There is little character development on her side, and on his side it's all Drama and Guilt and Muscles. Not my cup of tea.
The majority of the book is told from the hero's perspective so the emphasis of the book is on the action relating to Worldwide Doom Toxin. Periodically there's a sex scene between him and the heroine, who is his mark in this whole operation. There is little character development on her side, and on his side it's all Drama and Guilt and Muscles. Not my cup of tea.
dnf
March 11, 2015
Playing Dirty
The Characters
I don’t even remember. That tells us much.
The Story
I give up on HKD books. I’ve read, from people I trust, how good they are but I can never make it past the first few chapters. Maybe I’m not patient enough.
The Random Thoughts
*DNF so no rating
The Characters
I don’t even remember. That tells us much.
The Story
I give up on HKD books. I’ve read, from people I trust, how good they are but I can never make it past the first few chapters. Maybe I’m not patient enough.
The Random Thoughts
*DNF so no rating
November 11, 2017
enjoyable, but too much focus on the suspense for me.
December 18, 2015
Okay, so this one might have a little more romance and a lot less action than RUNNING HOT but it was still awesome, and I want more Bad Boys Undercover.
Shay Alexander hasn’t had the greatest luck with men and with an overprotective uncle, sometimes family can be more of a hindrance than a help so when a gorgeous tech savvy guy moves in across the hall, she’s not overly excited about taking their hot off the intro sex every night relationship out into the open. Not that it really matter since Ford always seems to be on call and out of town so traditional dating isn’t really in the cards but he is damn sexy and she wouldn't mind showing him off a bit, even if she is becoming more curious about what he does and where he goes.
Ford Decker – he’s hot, he’s sexy, and he’s dangerous. Working for Alliance means he has the opportunity to do some good, keep folks safe, and not have to get bogged down by too many rules but what he hadn’t counted on was having to get close to a woman he found himself wanting to be overly close to. He was only supposed to being watching Shay in case her cousin, the man Alliance was looking for, made contact or if he saw evidence she was involved in her cousin’s theft of a dangerous toxin, but she was too hard to resist. Now he’s watching her from the pillow beside her own and he hates that he has to lie to her every minute they are together. When things get hotter, and a mole is suspected, Ford has to risk everything including what he has with Shay to stop the bad guys.
Okay, I will say right off the bat that I had hoped for a little more STRIKE BACK styled action like we got in RUNNING HOT. But PLAYING DIRTY by HelenKay Dimon was still a thrill ride a minute whether Ford and the Bravo Team were out in the field or Ford was messing up the sheets, or getting naughty on the kitchen floor with Shay. The suspense created is carried over from the mission to the one on one with Shay and it worked so well. My gut told me that Shay had no idea what was happening around her but HelenKay still managed to make me wonder. I admit, I had the bad guy figured out long before he was revealed but waiting for it was part of the fun. The secondary characters in this series play as important a role to each of the books as the main characters. Getting inside Ward and Tasha’s heads and getting their take on Ford is as much fun as it was in RUNNING HOT. The give and take and slam back that exists between the members of the Alliance teams is definitely as good as anything on STRIKE BACK, and that’s one of the main reasons I love this series.
I can’t wait to read the next one, FALLING HARD, book 2, already available, and then FACING FIRE, book 3, coming next week. I guess I’d better catch up and so should you, if you haven’t sampled these amazing Bad Boys Undercover. I highly recommend PLAYING DIRTY, book one of the Bad Boys Undercover series by HelenKay Dimon to anyone who, like me, loves some gritty, down and dirty, shoot-em up, men acting like macho men, action suspense, and hot dirty sex that will have you fanning yourself and wishing for one of these sexy bad boys for yourself.
***gifted from a friend but sharing an honest and unscripted review.
Shay Alexander hasn’t had the greatest luck with men and with an overprotective uncle, sometimes family can be more of a hindrance than a help so when a gorgeous tech savvy guy moves in across the hall, she’s not overly excited about taking their hot off the intro sex every night relationship out into the open. Not that it really matter since Ford always seems to be on call and out of town so traditional dating isn’t really in the cards but he is damn sexy and she wouldn't mind showing him off a bit, even if she is becoming more curious about what he does and where he goes.
Ford Decker – he’s hot, he’s sexy, and he’s dangerous. Working for Alliance means he has the opportunity to do some good, keep folks safe, and not have to get bogged down by too many rules but what he hadn’t counted on was having to get close to a woman he found himself wanting to be overly close to. He was only supposed to being watching Shay in case her cousin, the man Alliance was looking for, made contact or if he saw evidence she was involved in her cousin’s theft of a dangerous toxin, but she was too hard to resist. Now he’s watching her from the pillow beside her own and he hates that he has to lie to her every minute they are together. When things get hotter, and a mole is suspected, Ford has to risk everything including what he has with Shay to stop the bad guys.
Okay, I will say right off the bat that I had hoped for a little more STRIKE BACK styled action like we got in RUNNING HOT. But PLAYING DIRTY by HelenKay Dimon was still a thrill ride a minute whether Ford and the Bravo Team were out in the field or Ford was messing up the sheets, or getting naughty on the kitchen floor with Shay. The suspense created is carried over from the mission to the one on one with Shay and it worked so well. My gut told me that Shay had no idea what was happening around her but HelenKay still managed to make me wonder. I admit, I had the bad guy figured out long before he was revealed but waiting for it was part of the fun. The secondary characters in this series play as important a role to each of the books as the main characters. Getting inside Ward and Tasha’s heads and getting their take on Ford is as much fun as it was in RUNNING HOT. The give and take and slam back that exists between the members of the Alliance teams is definitely as good as anything on STRIKE BACK, and that’s one of the main reasons I love this series.
I can’t wait to read the next one, FALLING HARD, book 2, already available, and then FACING FIRE, book 3, coming next week. I guess I’d better catch up and so should you, if you haven’t sampled these amazing Bad Boys Undercover. I highly recommend PLAYING DIRTY, book one of the Bad Boys Undercover series by HelenKay Dimon to anyone who, like me, loves some gritty, down and dirty, shoot-em up, men acting like macho men, action suspense, and hot dirty sex that will have you fanning yourself and wishing for one of these sexy bad boys for yourself.
***gifted from a friend but sharing an honest and unscripted review.
January 9, 2015
2.5 out of 5 stars
Black ops type stories can be so hit or miss for me. Sometimes, I get pulled into the story and can’t leave. Other times, it is a struggle to finish. Unfortunately, Playing Dirty falls into the struggle category for me. I did finish it, and I will admit, the second half of the book read a bit better than the first half. But, overall, I didn’t care for it.
The characters were kind of developed – eventually. Details were dribbled out at odd times. I could understand it for Ford. He was the Black Ops agent on an undercover assignment. But Shay? She was just the “collateral” or “mark” or “asset.” Whatever term they wanted to use at the moment. Shay managed the apartment building they lived in for her uncle. (Ford lived across the hall from her.) She was the cousin of the guy Ford was looking for, but that took several (For me that means more than three.) chapters before that was mentioned. Shay’s family background was left just as mysterious as Ford’s. That may have been a plot device to leave us wondering if she was a good guy or a bad guy. I just found it confusing.
I mention that, to me, several is more than three because early in the book there was that issue. One of them discussed having known each other only three weeks before they fell into bed. The other discussed it as being several weeks. It brought up the question of continuity for me. Just my opinion, but three would be “few.” Several is more than that.
The plot? I thought it was convoluted. It jumped around too much. Did not flow well. One chapter the Black Ops team was storming a position, the next Ford and Shay were getting it on. This happened throughout the book. Every other chapter featured Ford and Shay and they were usually having sex. I didn’t find that the sex added to the story at all. In fact, it was mostly just distracting.
As for the “operation” that was supposed to be happening, I guess it didn’t help that they had a mole mucking up things, but really? These guys seemed to get nowhere. They were almost down to the wire before things came together, and then it was mostly luck. These guys are supposed to be the best of the best at what they do. One of the reasons that I don’t care for books like this is how an author will often have them chasing their tails and running around like Keystone cops to add greater conflict or word count to the story. It irritates me. This wasn’t as bad as some I have read, but the top bad guy was never caught and it took 350 pages to find the ones they did get. This doesn’t really work for me when it’s supposed to be the best of the best.
This was an okay read. I did finish it. Many of you will absolutely love it. There is action, suspense, and a romance. It just wasn’t my cuppa.
Oh yes, some of you may have noticed, there is a prequel to this. I have not read it and did not find that it was necessary. The featured couple in the prequel featured heavily in Playing Dirty, but enough background was given to make Playing Dirty a viable stand-alone novel.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Black ops type stories can be so hit or miss for me. Sometimes, I get pulled into the story and can’t leave. Other times, it is a struggle to finish. Unfortunately, Playing Dirty falls into the struggle category for me. I did finish it, and I will admit, the second half of the book read a bit better than the first half. But, overall, I didn’t care for it.
The characters were kind of developed – eventually. Details were dribbled out at odd times. I could understand it for Ford. He was the Black Ops agent on an undercover assignment. But Shay? She was just the “collateral” or “mark” or “asset.” Whatever term they wanted to use at the moment. Shay managed the apartment building they lived in for her uncle. (Ford lived across the hall from her.) She was the cousin of the guy Ford was looking for, but that took several (For me that means more than three.) chapters before that was mentioned. Shay’s family background was left just as mysterious as Ford’s. That may have been a plot device to leave us wondering if she was a good guy or a bad guy. I just found it confusing.
I mention that, to me, several is more than three because early in the book there was that issue. One of them discussed having known each other only three weeks before they fell into bed. The other discussed it as being several weeks. It brought up the question of continuity for me. Just my opinion, but three would be “few.” Several is more than that.
The plot? I thought it was convoluted. It jumped around too much. Did not flow well. One chapter the Black Ops team was storming a position, the next Ford and Shay were getting it on. This happened throughout the book. Every other chapter featured Ford and Shay and they were usually having sex. I didn’t find that the sex added to the story at all. In fact, it was mostly just distracting.
As for the “operation” that was supposed to be happening, I guess it didn’t help that they had a mole mucking up things, but really? These guys seemed to get nowhere. They were almost down to the wire before things came together, and then it was mostly luck. These guys are supposed to be the best of the best at what they do. One of the reasons that I don’t care for books like this is how an author will often have them chasing their tails and running around like Keystone cops to add greater conflict or word count to the story. It irritates me. This wasn’t as bad as some I have read, but the top bad guy was never caught and it took 350 pages to find the ones they did get. This doesn’t really work for me when it’s supposed to be the best of the best.
This was an okay read. I did finish it. Many of you will absolutely love it. There is action, suspense, and a romance. It just wasn’t my cuppa.
Oh yes, some of you may have noticed, there is a prequel to this. I have not read it and did not find that it was necessary. The featured couple in the prequel featured heavily in Playing Dirty, but enough background was given to make Playing Dirty a viable stand-alone novel.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2015
Wow! This book is a thrill ride! It sucks you in from the very first moment and doesn’t stop until the last page. The storyline is along the lines of the Shield, so I was a little worried that it would end up being cliché. However, the author really did a fantastic job of keeping it down to earth, much more believable. Along with the action and steamy moments, the author also had me chucking several times at the dry wit of the characters.
Ford is faced with a pretty impossible situation. He falls for Shay almost immediately and therefore, can’t bring himself to be taken off of the assignment, even though he knows the longer he carries on with the lies, the less likely it is she will forgive him. He the best kind of hero in a novel. An ingrained sense of justice, a protector, and just a little bit of a rule breaker. But, he also, deliciously sexy, caring, sweet, and loving. His struggle in merging all of those characteristics is one of the things that makes him more realistic and draws the reader in.
Shay is one of the most solid female heroines I’ve encountered in a novel. I don’t mean this is a negative way, but there is nothing really special about her. She works hard, loves her family, and lives her life day to day, just like most of the world. It’s this ordinariness that connects the reader with Shay because she seems so real. As a person, I would want to be friends with her and that says a lot about the character. She has a positive outlook on life, isn’t whiney, and though her trust issues were a tad frustrating for me, I had to admit, they were totally warranted.
The book is definitely full of nonstop action and while the storyline was just the slightest bit predictable, the author threw in a few twists and turns that kept me guessing. The love story is sweet and steamy, soft moments to rest from all the intensity in the rest of the book. This is apparently the first in a series and I’ll be watching for the following books as well as looking into this author’s other works!
Ford is faced with a pretty impossible situation. He falls for Shay almost immediately and therefore, can’t bring himself to be taken off of the assignment, even though he knows the longer he carries on with the lies, the less likely it is she will forgive him. He the best kind of hero in a novel. An ingrained sense of justice, a protector, and just a little bit of a rule breaker. But, he also, deliciously sexy, caring, sweet, and loving. His struggle in merging all of those characteristics is one of the things that makes him more realistic and draws the reader in.
Shay is one of the most solid female heroines I’ve encountered in a novel. I don’t mean this is a negative way, but there is nothing really special about her. She works hard, loves her family, and lives her life day to day, just like most of the world. It’s this ordinariness that connects the reader with Shay because she seems so real. As a person, I would want to be friends with her and that says a lot about the character. She has a positive outlook on life, isn’t whiney, and though her trust issues were a tad frustrating for me, I had to admit, they were totally warranted.
The book is definitely full of nonstop action and while the storyline was just the slightest bit predictable, the author threw in a few twists and turns that kept me guessing. The love story is sweet and steamy, soft moments to rest from all the intensity in the rest of the book. This is apparently the first in a series and I’ll be watching for the following books as well as looking into this author’s other works!
September 8, 2014
I was really excited to pick up the new series from HelenKay Dimon. I love romantic suspense stories and there don’t seem to be a lot available right now so finding a new series, and an entertaining one, is very exciting. Ford is a member of a covert military group called Alliance which is made up of former members of the CIA and MI6. Imagine a group of super smexy, talented guys (some with accents) executing covert operations to save the world. I’m liking the setup already. When a deadly toxin is stolen, Ford and his team will stop at nothing to track down any vials. Ford takes on the hard task of getting close to the main suspect's cousin, Shay. Because of past relationships Shay has decided to stay far away from men but when Ford, a sexy IT specialist, moves in across from her she just can’t seem to keep her hands to herself. Their chemistry is off the charts but Ford knows that lying to Shay is not the way to build a long term relationship. He understands that getting close to her could potentially produce a lead, he just didn’t realize he could fall for a target. When the truth comes out will Shay be able to forgive him?
I really enjoyed this book, it had a lot of action and was plenty dirty. What could throw some readers off is that a lot of this story is told from the male perspective, from Ford’s point of view. We see a lot of him and his team and the length they go to find the toxin. There is less time spent with Shay exploring her feelings and her perspective of her growing relationship with Ford. It does not exclude her story at all, just less than I’m used to for a romance. I thought this was a great way to tell this action packed story, especially since it really introduced us to the other members of Alliance and set up for some great stories in this series. Can’t wait to read more!
*I received a copy of this ARC from the publisher*
**HelenKay is a personal friend, take this review however you’d like**
I really enjoyed this book, it had a lot of action and was plenty dirty. What could throw some readers off is that a lot of this story is told from the male perspective, from Ford’s point of view. We see a lot of him and his team and the length they go to find the toxin. There is less time spent with Shay exploring her feelings and her perspective of her growing relationship with Ford. It does not exclude her story at all, just less than I’m used to for a romance. I thought this was a great way to tell this action packed story, especially since it really introduced us to the other members of Alliance and set up for some great stories in this series. Can’t wait to read more!
*I received a copy of this ARC from the publisher*
**HelenKay is a personal friend, take this review however you’d like**
February 10, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Alliance's latest mission is to find a missing scientist who's created a new, deadly toxin for which the antidote is still in the testing phases. Ford is an agent of the newly formed Alliance group, made up of ex-CIA and MI6 agents. Since Alliance is not a government agency, nor government sanctioned, they can get things done without having to go through the mountains of red tape that follows all things government approved.
Ford's mission is find Trent, find the missing toxi, and neutralize anyone who gets in his way. As part of his cover, Ford moves into an apartment complex owned by Trent's father and managed by his cousin, Shay. Ford has strayed off the mission plan by starting a relationship with Shay.
Shay is wary of any relationship because most men see her uncles bank account rather than her. At least that's what her last serious boyfriend saw in her. Ford is different. He seems to be exactly what he seems. An IT expert who is called away at all times of the day and night, for days/weeks at time.
As Ford tries to find Trent, his team struggles to come to grips with bad intel, differing ideologies between TPTB, and the fact there seems to be a mole in their agency. Ford is also trying to find a way to keep Shay safe and to keep her from finding out that what she seems to think is real all started on a lie.
Alliance's latest mission is to find a missing scientist who's created a new, deadly toxin for which the antidote is still in the testing phases. Ford is an agent of the newly formed Alliance group, made up of ex-CIA and MI6 agents. Since Alliance is not a government agency, nor government sanctioned, they can get things done without having to go through the mountains of red tape that follows all things government approved.
Ford's mission is find Trent, find the missing toxi, and neutralize anyone who gets in his way. As part of his cover, Ford moves into an apartment complex owned by Trent's father and managed by his cousin, Shay. Ford has strayed off the mission plan by starting a relationship with Shay.
Shay is wary of any relationship because most men see her uncles bank account rather than her. At least that's what her last serious boyfriend saw in her. Ford is different. He seems to be exactly what he seems. An IT expert who is called away at all times of the day and night, for days/weeks at time.
As Ford tries to find Trent, his team struggles to come to grips with bad intel, differing ideologies between TPTB, and the fact there seems to be a mole in their agency. Ford is also trying to find a way to keep Shay safe and to keep her from finding out that what she seems to think is real all started on a lie.
February 16, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Playing Dirty is sexy, suspense filled, a complete action packed read.
Ford Decker works for the Alliance, all it's members being hand picked from different agencies throughout the world. He's good at what he does. He's strong and demanding, he's precise, but he's living a double life, his work life and his personal life.
When he started sleeping with Shay it wasn't anything series. She takes what he offers, never asking for more. The Ford she knows works as an IT specialist, he travels a lot for work. When work and play combine Shay finds out Ford isn't the man she thought he was. Yes he's lied about his job and his feelings for Shay. Can he save what he's built between them before it's too late?
Romantic suspense readers will love this one. The chemistry is sizzling between Ford and Shay. The action weaves it's way through from start to finish.
Playing Dirty is sexy, suspense filled, a complete action packed read.
Ford Decker works for the Alliance, all it's members being hand picked from different agencies throughout the world. He's good at what he does. He's strong and demanding, he's precise, but he's living a double life, his work life and his personal life.
When he started sleeping with Shay it wasn't anything series. She takes what he offers, never asking for more. The Ford she knows works as an IT specialist, he travels a lot for work. When work and play combine Shay finds out Ford isn't the man she thought he was. Yes he's lied about his job and his feelings for Shay. Can he save what he's built between them before it's too late?
Romantic suspense readers will love this one. The chemistry is sizzling between Ford and Shay. The action weaves it's way through from start to finish.
November 22, 2025
Playing Dirty is a power packed romantic suspense with a wonderfully thrilling mystery.
Ford Decker is a member of an elite anti-terrorism team. When a viral weapon is stolen, Ford is sent to monitor Shay Alexander, the cousin to the genius behind the lethal concoction. His “monitoring” quickly turns into a heated sexual relationship unlike anything he's ever experienced. When the safety of the world is on the line, Ford can't afford to be distracted. But will he be able to keep his head, when all the carefully laid plans come to boil?
If you are looking for a great new suspense series, check out Playing Dirty. Plenty of nail biting action, lots of heat in and out of the bedroom and a wonderful mystery to keep you guessing right up until the end.
I received this ARC copy of Playing Dirty from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication January 27, 2015.
Ford Decker is a member of an elite anti-terrorism team. When a viral weapon is stolen, Ford is sent to monitor Shay Alexander, the cousin to the genius behind the lethal concoction. His “monitoring” quickly turns into a heated sexual relationship unlike anything he's ever experienced. When the safety of the world is on the line, Ford can't afford to be distracted. But will he be able to keep his head, when all the carefully laid plans come to boil?
If you are looking for a great new suspense series, check out Playing Dirty. Plenty of nail biting action, lots of heat in and out of the bedroom and a wonderful mystery to keep you guessing right up until the end.
I received this ARC copy of Playing Dirty from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication January 27, 2015.
February 19, 2015
I found myself confused at the start to this one. I wasn't sure if flashbacks were happening or what. I liked the softer side we got to see when Ford was with Shay, but I also liked the badass side we got to see when he was working. I was glad when I finally figured out that the two different stories were happening at the same time.
It was interesting to see Ford called out by the team in regards to the role he played in Shay's life. You could tell at first they were mad, then when they realized it was more than his job he really took a ribbing. I thought the frank conversation that Tasha had with Ford about Shay and his job was heartbreaking. You knew all the things that Tasha said were true and that at some point all the deceptions were going to come back to bit him. I was glad to see that after some time Shay realized what was real and what wasn't.
It was interesting to see Ford called out by the team in regards to the role he played in Shay's life. You could tell at first they were mad, then when they realized it was more than his job he really took a ribbing. I thought the frank conversation that Tasha had with Ford about Shay and his job was heartbreaking. You knew all the things that Tasha said were true and that at some point all the deceptions were going to come back to bit him. I was glad to see that after some time Shay realized what was real and what wasn't.
February 19, 2015
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, betrayal, secrets, suspense, twists and heartbreak.
This is Shay and Ford’s story. Ford is working undercover. He was attracted to Shay right from the start and is now in a relationship with her. That relationship could be the end of them both. For one he should not be getting cozy with her as he is investigating her cousin. Another point not in his favor is she is a job. Shay believes Ford is exactly what he seems that is until the secrets come out. Can Ford fix was the lies and secrets have broken? Or will it be too late as she is already in too much danger for him to save her?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this series.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, betrayal, secrets, suspense, twists and heartbreak.
This is Shay and Ford’s story. Ford is working undercover. He was attracted to Shay right from the start and is now in a relationship with her. That relationship could be the end of them both. For one he should not be getting cozy with her as he is investigating her cousin. Another point not in his favor is she is a job. Shay believes Ford is exactly what he seems that is until the secrets come out. Can Ford fix was the lies and secrets have broken? Or will it be too late as she is already in too much danger for him to save her?
I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this series.
July 2, 2015
I'm glad I didn't let my dislike of the novella keep me from reading this book, because I really liked it. Ford from the novella is leading an operation trying to locate a scientist and missing deadly toxins which if they fell into the wrong hands could be used as an act of terrorism. He moves into an apartment complex across the hall from the scientist's cousin while undercover and a romance develops. . It is fun watching Ford juggle his job and relationship while maintaining his cover at the same time. This book has it all, action, romance and a good mystery. 4 stars.
September 23, 2015
OK, I liked Ford, I'm on the fence with Shay. Nobody likes a heroine who's TSTL but Shay toed that line too many times for my comfort. Shit that was so damn obvious she would ignore and get herself into more trouble.
Story - 3
narrator 3
I actually listened to book 2 first so this is a nice start to the series. I don't think I'm interested in Tasha and Ward's story so I'll just take their relationship at face value and move on. Looking forward to book 3.
Story - 3
narrator 3
I actually listened to book 2 first so this is a nice start to the series. I don't think I'm interested in Tasha and Ward's story so I'll just take their relationship at face value and move on. Looking forward to book 3.
August 27, 2015
Too much sex and not enough relationship development. Also, not enough groveling.
June 8, 2018
Yes!!! This was it. THIS was the book I’d been waiting for, not only for this author to redeem herself with me but for the “undercover hero” trope that’s been done many times but never to MY personal satisfaction. This was just beautifully done. FINALLY, a heroine who is mature enough to understand why he did what he did in the end but doesn’t just up and forgive him because they had a near death experience nor does she seek him out to forgive him. HE had to go to her and ask, in this case beg for forgiveness, another chance, and made a HUGE grand gesture that not only fit the crime but also showed how much he truly loved her and how far he was willing to go to be with her. Ford is officially one of my favorite heroes of all time. His actions after everything had happened exceeded my expectations and I loved that Shay stood her ground and didn’t let Tasha’s stupid speech and everyone else who was dropping hints about forgiving him influence her decision.
Shay was one of the smartest, most mature, most compassionate heroines I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. She opened up to him as soon as she knew something was off about her cousin, proving her innocence and how much she trusted him, too many times we get a heroine who doesn’t ask for help when she’s in a dilemma of not knowing what to do. Even though, she knew something was wrong with how Trent was unreachable, and her uncle seemed to be lying, she didn’t let on she knew in order to be safe or jump the gun and get herself in potential trouble, she played it cool until she got more information. Her character was very realistic and truly portrayed a person who had been betrayed by someone she fell in love with. She didn’t react in over the top outbursts and suddenly develop a bitchy attitude. She was broken to the point where all she could do was just sit in a chair, stare at the wall in silence, doing nothing except thinking and hurting inside but maintaining her composure because she knew she was being watched and then falling apart when she couldn’t hold it in anymore. Even though it was a sad scene, it was beautiful because it showed how fragile she was when she felt like she had no one in her life that she could trust.
I hate Tasha, never will like her, she’s a selfish, stuck up bitch. She wants people to follow her every order like a dog but she doesn’t get my respect. Shay didn’t deserve to be lied to and I get that the toxin was dangerous so it required them to do whatever they had to do but there was no need for Tasha to be so insensitive and mean to someone who didn’t deserve it. Say you’re sorry she was hurt along the way and apologize for using her but don’t tell that same innocent woman you’re not sorry for Ford using her because Shay didn’t deserve that. Tasha is a power hungry, manipulative woman and I don’t understand why none of the guys don’t just quit on her because of her nasty attitude and the disrespect by talking down to them as if she’s above them and better at what they do.
I didn’t like that Ward was calling out Ford for getting involved with Shay and developing feelings for her. He of all people should know that you can’t control those things, it just happens. Ford didn’t give him crap for getting involved with Tasha when they were on assignment, he respected his friend and let him handle his situation with her as long as he didn’t let it affect his job. Just because Tasha wasn’t a mark, didn’t make the situations different, it was the same thing. Ward fell for a girl on the job, only difference was she was in the same business and knew what was going on. Everyone else also kind of ganged up on him because they still weren’t sure if she was involved with her cousin but that’s expected. Ward knew Ford better than them and should have trusted him.
Besides these minor annoyances, the rest of the book was great. I would have liked to see just a little less of the sex scenes mostly because there were more than enough of that side of their relationship and replaced some with a cute scene or two to show more of their friendship and playful bond, but it wasn’t a huge deal. I will definitely come back and read this book again. This has the best apology/grovel I’ve ever read from a hero who screwed up. His betrayal was hurtful but redeemable and he proved that he was sorry with how sincere his words were and the powerful apology he gave her with what he would do for her to get her back. This was an amazing book and I already want to read it again. Thanks to the author for writing this, you’ve done what no other writer has managed to accomplish with me in getting that perfect apology/grovel down.
*side note* I do wish we had gotten to see their beginning or a least a flashback to the first time they met. It was confusing in the beginning because we find out that we were just kinda thrown into the story sometime after the first chapter. They were already together and we missed how they started their semi-relationship. A timeline note at the beginning of the second chapter would have been appreciated rather than reading it in confusion until it was cleared up at the end of the chapter.
Shay was one of the smartest, most mature, most compassionate heroines I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. She opened up to him as soon as she knew something was off about her cousin, proving her innocence and how much she trusted him, too many times we get a heroine who doesn’t ask for help when she’s in a dilemma of not knowing what to do. Even though, she knew something was wrong with how Trent was unreachable, and her uncle seemed to be lying, she didn’t let on she knew in order to be safe or jump the gun and get herself in potential trouble, she played it cool until she got more information. Her character was very realistic and truly portrayed a person who had been betrayed by someone she fell in love with. She didn’t react in over the top outbursts and suddenly develop a bitchy attitude. She was broken to the point where all she could do was just sit in a chair, stare at the wall in silence, doing nothing except thinking and hurting inside but maintaining her composure because she knew she was being watched and then falling apart when she couldn’t hold it in anymore. Even though it was a sad scene, it was beautiful because it showed how fragile she was when she felt like she had no one in her life that she could trust.
I hate Tasha, never will like her, she’s a selfish, stuck up bitch. She wants people to follow her every order like a dog but she doesn’t get my respect. Shay didn’t deserve to be lied to and I get that the toxin was dangerous so it required them to do whatever they had to do but there was no need for Tasha to be so insensitive and mean to someone who didn’t deserve it. Say you’re sorry she was hurt along the way and apologize for using her but don’t tell that same innocent woman you’re not sorry for Ford using her because Shay didn’t deserve that. Tasha is a power hungry, manipulative woman and I don’t understand why none of the guys don’t just quit on her because of her nasty attitude and the disrespect by talking down to them as if she’s above them and better at what they do.
I didn’t like that Ward was calling out Ford for getting involved with Shay and developing feelings for her. He of all people should know that you can’t control those things, it just happens. Ford didn’t give him crap for getting involved with Tasha when they were on assignment, he respected his friend and let him handle his situation with her as long as he didn’t let it affect his job. Just because Tasha wasn’t a mark, didn’t make the situations different, it was the same thing. Ward fell for a girl on the job, only difference was she was in the same business and knew what was going on. Everyone else also kind of ganged up on him because they still weren’t sure if she was involved with her cousin but that’s expected. Ward knew Ford better than them and should have trusted him.
Besides these minor annoyances, the rest of the book was great. I would have liked to see just a little less of the sex scenes mostly because there were more than enough of that side of their relationship and replaced some with a cute scene or two to show more of their friendship and playful bond, but it wasn’t a huge deal. I will definitely come back and read this book again. This has the best apology/grovel I’ve ever read from a hero who screwed up. His betrayal was hurtful but redeemable and he proved that he was sorry with how sincere his words were and the powerful apology he gave her with what he would do for her to get her back. This was an amazing book and I already want to read it again. Thanks to the author for writing this, you’ve done what no other writer has managed to accomplish with me in getting that perfect apology/grovel down.
*side note* I do wish we had gotten to see their beginning or a least a flashback to the first time they met. It was confusing in the beginning because we find out that we were just kinda thrown into the story sometime after the first chapter. They were already together and we missed how they started their semi-relationship. A timeline note at the beginning of the second chapter would have been appreciated rather than reading it in confusion until it was cleared up at the end of the chapter.
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