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Dirty Little Secrets #3
Restrained Under His Duty
An uninhibited politician's daughter falls for her loyal bodyguard behind closed doors in this scandalous novel from the USA Today bestselling author of Bound Beneath His Pain and Tied to His Betrayal.
As the chief of security for a prominent senator, Ryder Blackwood is stunned when an anonymous source sends him a compromising photo of his boss's twenty-five-year-old daughter getting down and dirty in an underground sex club. If it gets out, the media firestorm could ruin her father. More troubling for Ryder is how arousing he finds the whole situation. He's known Hadley Winters since she was a kid. And now she's the woman in all his most private fantasies.
Wild behavior helps Hadley get through those painful, lonely nights, but she's been waiting a long time for a man like Ryder to protect her from herself. Ryder is raw. He's real. And he makes her feel safe. Now that they've both become pawns in a blackmailer's dangerous game,...
As the chief of security for a prominent senator, Ryder Blackwood is stunned when an anonymous source sends him a compromising photo of his boss's twenty-five-year-old daughter getting down and dirty in an underground sex club. If it gets out, the media firestorm could ruin her father. More troubling for Ryder is how arousing he finds the whole situation. He's known Hadley Winters since she was a kid. And now she's the woman in all his most private fantasies.
Wild behavior helps Hadley get through those painful, lonely nights, but she's been waiting a long time for a man like Ryder to protect her from herself. Ryder is raw. He's real. And he makes her feel safe. Now that they've both become pawns in a blackmailer's dangerous game,...
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2017
111 people are currently reading
725 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Kennedy
122 books2,401 followersStacey Kennedy is a USA Today bestselling author who writes contemporary romances full of heat, heart, and happily ever afters. With over 50 titles published, her books have hit Amazon, B&N, and Apple Books bestseller lists.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
April 13, 2017
Ryder is Hadley's protection. He has been attracted to her for a while but has resisted her to the point that she has tried to move on. In the process, she gets herself in quite a bit of trouble. I have been following this series since its inception and was very interested in seeing where Ryder was headed with his charge.
Hadley, in my opinion, has some growing up to do. I get that in seemingly unrequited love, one might be inspired to move on but she goes into something she is woefully unprepared for. It feels more like an attempt at getting attention more so than exploring other possibilities. Ryder was ok but there wasn't anything that stood out to me. He didn't really feel like a strong character. However, the love scenes were hot.
The plot was alright. The writing and pacing was good. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate the story or anything, it was just about middle ground for me.
Safety: No others after they get together. Poor sexual decisions by the heroine. PM me if you want details. Neither are virgins. No rape, though there is an attempt. Yes to violence.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Hadley, in my opinion, has some growing up to do. I get that in seemingly unrequited love, one might be inspired to move on but she goes into something she is woefully unprepared for. It feels more like an attempt at getting attention more so than exploring other possibilities. Ryder was ok but there wasn't anything that stood out to me. He didn't really feel like a strong character. However, the love scenes were hot.
The plot was alright. The writing and pacing was good. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate the story or anything, it was just about middle ground for me.
Safety: No others after they get together. Poor sexual decisions by the heroine. PM me if you want details. Neither are virgins. No rape, though there is an attempt. Yes to violence.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2017
Fabulous cover on this one. A good representation of the hero. Fabulous composition. Eye-catching and unique typography.
I LOVED this one. Extremely well written. Nicely paced. Full of twists and turns. It had some hot sex scenes. It had interesting side characters. Both main characters were likable. In fact, this book had a nice change of pace, and it was the heroine who slept with OM because even though they both wanted each other, the hero kept rejecting her. I appreciate the author deviating from the overused cliché of it being the hero sleeping around while the heroine pines away.
This is the third book in the series, and since I haven't read the first two books, I can safely say this can be read as a standalone with no issues. That said I enjoyed this one so much I definitely will be going back to read the other books soon. All in all, this was a fabulous way to spend a couple of hours so two HUGE thumbs up from yours truly.
March 29, 2017
I love this Dirty Little Secret series from Stacy Kennedy. Each one of these books are dripping hot and this one new one I was able to review is no different.
Ryder has his work cut out for him when it comes to protecting his client, the Senator, because along with that comes the woman he's been lusting for for many years.
Complications, threats, crimes, spilled secrets, naughty ménages, trouble with the sex clubs, and many more issues are laid at his feet. But the biggest complication of all is how to deal with his growing lust and feelings for Hadley. He is so sexy and steamy!
Stacy Kennedy knows how to dish it up it comes to hot and heavy romance. A little bit of erotica to keep things spicy, a little bit of suspense to keep your interest going, and some wonderful writing to keep those pages turning.
I've read many of Stacy Kennedy's books and she never disappoints. This one is another solid hit and thankfully there's one more coming in the series. I just can't wait.
* I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book
Ryder has his work cut out for him when it comes to protecting his client, the Senator, because along with that comes the woman he's been lusting for for many years.
Complications, threats, crimes, spilled secrets, naughty ménages, trouble with the sex clubs, and many more issues are laid at his feet. But the biggest complication of all is how to deal with his growing lust and feelings for Hadley. He is so sexy and steamy!
Stacy Kennedy knows how to dish it up it comes to hot and heavy romance. A little bit of erotica to keep things spicy, a little bit of suspense to keep your interest going, and some wonderful writing to keep those pages turning.
I've read many of Stacy Kennedy's books and she never disappoints. This one is another solid hit and thankfully there's one more coming in the series. I just can't wait.
* I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book
March 11, 2020
Inhalt: „Dirty little secrets - Entfesselt“ ist der dritte Teil der CEO-Romance-Reihe von Stacey Kennedy. Es ist am 1.02.2020 bei be-ebooks - by Bastei Lübbe erschienen. Man kann dieses Buch unabhängig von seinen beiden Vorgängern lesen.
In diesem Teil lernen wir Ryder Blackwood besser kennen. Er ist der Securitychef des Senators Winters und hat dank dessen Hilfe seine eigene Sicherheitsfirma. Er tut alles für die Sicherheit des Senators und dessen Familie. Hadley Winters kennt er schon von kleinauf. Es herrscht eine Anziehung zwischen den beiden, der er aber nicht nachgibt. Zu sehr fühlt er sich dem Senator und seinem Job verpflichtet. Als Bilder von Hadley auftauchen und sie Teil der politischen Intrigen wird, setzt Ryder alles daran sie zu beschützen.
Meinung: Zu den Covern muss ich leider sagen, dass mich weder das deutsche noch das Originalcover ansprechen. Ich bin kein Fan von Menschen auf dem Cover. In der deutschen Version sieht mir der Mann zu brav und nicht passend zur Geschichte aus. Dafür springt einem der Titel direkt ins Gesicht. Besonders die lila Schrift hebt sich stark ab. Ins deutsche wurde es von Nina Hunter übersetzt. Die Geschichte wird sowohl aus Ryders als auch Hadleys Sicht erzählt, so dass man einen guten Einblick in beide Charaktere bekommen konnte. Ryder hat mir besser als Hadley gefallen. Er nimmt seinen Job ernst und arbeitet hart. Er ist dankbar dafür, dass der Senator ihm das Geld für eine eigene Sicherheitsfirma gegeben hat und vergisst das auch nicht. Er ist auch außerhalb seines Jobs ein Beschützer. Gerne hätte ich mehr über seine Vergangenheit erfahren. In diesem Teil ist mir nicht wirklich klar geworden, warum er mit seinen Freunden diesen Sexclub gegründet und auch immer noch führt. Vielleicht fehlt mir dafür das Wissen aus den beiden Vorgängern. Beim Thema Sex sind wir dann auch direkt bei Hadley (Warum will mein Kopf daraus immer Hartley machen?). Die meiste Zeit über denkt sie mir zu viel an sexuelle Tätigkeiten. Mit ihr konnte ich mich nicht identifizieren. Die Begründung mit ihrer Vergangenheit, weswegen sie sich im Sexclub hat dominieren lassen gefällt mir nicht wirklich. Später will sie bei Ryder aber immer die Zügel in der Hand halten. Es passt irgendwie nicht. Erst dieser wechseln und dann ist ja eigentlich Ryder derjenige, der auch von sich aus sagt, dass er gerne das Kommando hat. Sowieso haben mir diese Szenen überhaupt nicht gefallen. Es war nicht schön geschrieben und passte einfach nicht. Insgesamt war der Schreibstil in Ordnung, aber konnte mich nicht vom Hocker hauen. Zwischendurch fehlte mir immer wieder die Motivation weiter lesen zu wollen. Zum Glück wurde die Geschichte gegen Ende nochmal spannender. Eines muss ich der Autorin lassen: Sie hat es geschafft mich damit zu überraschen, wer der Täter ist. Ich habe es erst gleichzeitig mit Ryder herausgefunden.
Fazit: Wer die ersten Teile mochte kann sich hier auf ein Wiedersehen mit den anderen Jungs freuen. Für diesen Band muss man, aber nicht zwangsläufig , die anderen Bände gelesen haben.
Ganz überzeugen konnte mich das Buch nicht, da ich nicht mit so einer sexlastigen Geschichte gerechnet hatte. Der spannende Part war ganz in Ordnung und auf die Lösung bin ich auch nicht so schnell gekommen.
Der vierte Teil „Dirty little secrets- Geliebt“ erscheint am 1.04.2020 ebenfalls bei be-ebooks - by Bastei Lübbe. Diesmal geht es um Gabe. Da seine Geschichte gut klingt und ich beide Protagonisten in diesem Band schon ein bisschen kennenlernen durfte, tendiere ich dazu dem letzten Band der Reihe noch eine Chance zu geben.
In diesem Teil lernen wir Ryder Blackwood besser kennen. Er ist der Securitychef des Senators Winters und hat dank dessen Hilfe seine eigene Sicherheitsfirma. Er tut alles für die Sicherheit des Senators und dessen Familie. Hadley Winters kennt er schon von kleinauf. Es herrscht eine Anziehung zwischen den beiden, der er aber nicht nachgibt. Zu sehr fühlt er sich dem Senator und seinem Job verpflichtet. Als Bilder von Hadley auftauchen und sie Teil der politischen Intrigen wird, setzt Ryder alles daran sie zu beschützen.
Meinung: Zu den Covern muss ich leider sagen, dass mich weder das deutsche noch das Originalcover ansprechen. Ich bin kein Fan von Menschen auf dem Cover. In der deutschen Version sieht mir der Mann zu brav und nicht passend zur Geschichte aus. Dafür springt einem der Titel direkt ins Gesicht. Besonders die lila Schrift hebt sich stark ab. Ins deutsche wurde es von Nina Hunter übersetzt. Die Geschichte wird sowohl aus Ryders als auch Hadleys Sicht erzählt, so dass man einen guten Einblick in beide Charaktere bekommen konnte. Ryder hat mir besser als Hadley gefallen. Er nimmt seinen Job ernst und arbeitet hart. Er ist dankbar dafür, dass der Senator ihm das Geld für eine eigene Sicherheitsfirma gegeben hat und vergisst das auch nicht. Er ist auch außerhalb seines Jobs ein Beschützer. Gerne hätte ich mehr über seine Vergangenheit erfahren. In diesem Teil ist mir nicht wirklich klar geworden, warum er mit seinen Freunden diesen Sexclub gegründet und auch immer noch führt. Vielleicht fehlt mir dafür das Wissen aus den beiden Vorgängern. Beim Thema Sex sind wir dann auch direkt bei Hadley (Warum will mein Kopf daraus immer Hartley machen?). Die meiste Zeit über denkt sie mir zu viel an sexuelle Tätigkeiten. Mit ihr konnte ich mich nicht identifizieren. Die Begründung mit ihrer Vergangenheit, weswegen sie sich im Sexclub hat dominieren lassen gefällt mir nicht wirklich. Später will sie bei Ryder aber immer die Zügel in der Hand halten. Es passt irgendwie nicht. Erst dieser wechseln und dann ist ja eigentlich Ryder derjenige, der auch von sich aus sagt, dass er gerne das Kommando hat. Sowieso haben mir diese Szenen überhaupt nicht gefallen. Es war nicht schön geschrieben und passte einfach nicht. Insgesamt war der Schreibstil in Ordnung, aber konnte mich nicht vom Hocker hauen. Zwischendurch fehlte mir immer wieder die Motivation weiter lesen zu wollen. Zum Glück wurde die Geschichte gegen Ende nochmal spannender. Eines muss ich der Autorin lassen: Sie hat es geschafft mich damit zu überraschen, wer der Täter ist. Ich habe es erst gleichzeitig mit Ryder herausgefunden.
Fazit: Wer die ersten Teile mochte kann sich hier auf ein Wiedersehen mit den anderen Jungs freuen. Für diesen Band muss man, aber nicht zwangsläufig , die anderen Bände gelesen haben.
Ganz überzeugen konnte mich das Buch nicht, da ich nicht mit so einer sexlastigen Geschichte gerechnet hatte. Der spannende Part war ganz in Ordnung und auf die Lösung bin ich auch nicht so schnell gekommen.
Der vierte Teil „Dirty little secrets- Geliebt“ erscheint am 1.04.2020 ebenfalls bei be-ebooks - by Bastei Lübbe. Diesmal geht es um Gabe. Da seine Geschichte gut klingt und ich beide Protagonisten in diesem Band schon ein bisschen kennenlernen durfte, tendiere ich dazu dem letzten Band der Reihe noch eine Chance zu geben.
April 4, 2017
Stacey Kennedy is becoming one of my must read authors. This is my second series I've read of hers and I've loved everything I've read so far. Restrained Under His Duty is book three in a set of standalone series that focus on each couple but connect all books in a bigger plot. I would recommend starting with book 1.
The bigger plot is about a group of friends and secret business partners in a sex club that have been targeted. They've discovered that someone is spying on them and feeding personal information about them to the tabloids. They need to find this person before their involvement or the member of the sex club gets exposed.
In this book, Ryder and the Senator's daughter, Hadley are being targeted. Ryder is the Senators head of security and in love with Hadley but will not give in to his attraction due to his sense of honor. When Ryder is threatened with a leak of a video of her to ruin her fathers career, Ryder can no longer stay away.
Ryder might have just become my favorite in this series. He's very honorable and his need to protect Hadley showed how much he really loves her. Hadley, despite putting herself in compromising situations (Senator's daughter, hello???) is a heroine I enjoyed reading about. She was upfront and honest about what she wanted from Ryder. Dealing with his constant rejection and pain from a past trauma is how she got her self in these compromising situations.
The plot was fast paced and had me hooked. I really enjoy a good suspense storyline when you can't predict what's going to happen next. I'm really looking forward to Gabes book next. ARC provided by Netgalley.
The bigger plot is about a group of friends and secret business partners in a sex club that have been targeted. They've discovered that someone is spying on them and feeding personal information about them to the tabloids. They need to find this person before their involvement or the member of the sex club gets exposed.
In this book, Ryder and the Senator's daughter, Hadley are being targeted. Ryder is the Senators head of security and in love with Hadley but will not give in to his attraction due to his sense of honor. When Ryder is threatened with a leak of a video of her to ruin her fathers career, Ryder can no longer stay away.
Ryder might have just become my favorite in this series. He's very honorable and his need to protect Hadley showed how much he really loves her. Hadley, despite putting herself in compromising situations (Senator's daughter, hello???) is a heroine I enjoyed reading about. She was upfront and honest about what she wanted from Ryder. Dealing with his constant rejection and pain from a past trauma is how she got her self in these compromising situations.
The plot was fast paced and had me hooked. I really enjoy a good suspense storyline when you can't predict what's going to happen next. I'm really looking forward to Gabes book next. ARC provided by Netgalley.
April 7, 2017
Gawd this author writes hot shit. And good stories... let's not forget about the actually story. But seriously, hot shit.
I also love bodyguard/security heroes. They make me swoon.
Sometimes the trope works, but the words on the page dont. Sometimes the sex is hot, but the plot is boring or unoriginal. Sometimes the H sucks ass or the heroine is super annoying. NONE of that is true with this book! It all works together. It all fits together. You will be entertained for the entire book. Ms Kennedy can write amazing stories. I am not sure why I haven't read every one of them.
If you don't mind the bdsm world, I'd dive right into this series. Wow.
*Arc received via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. Whoo-hoo!
I also love bodyguard/security heroes. They make me swoon.
Sometimes the trope works, but the words on the page dont. Sometimes the sex is hot, but the plot is boring or unoriginal. Sometimes the H sucks ass or the heroine is super annoying. NONE of that is true with this book! It all works together. It all fits together. You will be entertained for the entire book. Ms Kennedy can write amazing stories. I am not sure why I haven't read every one of them.
If you don't mind the bdsm world, I'd dive right into this series. Wow.
*Arc received via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. Whoo-hoo!
October 23, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
3.5 Stars
I like Stacey Kennedy, and I like this series. I was looking forward to this one...and as a book, it did not disappoint, but as a part of the series, I wanted more of the rest of the men, and more resolution in the situation with the bug in the bar that was revealed in the previous book. I felt there was a lot of build up on that situation that was not fully developed in this book.
That said, the attraction and the chemistry with Hadley and Ryder was wonderful, it was hot, and it was compelling. I loved the idea that the stop to them being together was Ryder and that, ironically, her father really had no issue with it (don't worry, happens really early) and you know almost immediately that it is his sense of duty (hence the title) that is causing any issues with them being together.
The writing was strong, as was the pacing around the relationship. There were parts that I felt were cut out too early, but this was around the bug, and the issues that were brought up in the other books.
For the relationship, the chemistry, and the story of Hadley and Ryder, I totally recommend this book...but if you are looking for a lot of forward momentum in the other story, there is not a lot in this one. It is not totally ignored, but it feels like a lot less of a focus than it was in the earlier books.
I do recommend this book.
3.5 Stars
I like Stacey Kennedy, and I like this series. I was looking forward to this one...and as a book, it did not disappoint, but as a part of the series, I wanted more of the rest of the men, and more resolution in the situation with the bug in the bar that was revealed in the previous book. I felt there was a lot of build up on that situation that was not fully developed in this book.
That said, the attraction and the chemistry with Hadley and Ryder was wonderful, it was hot, and it was compelling. I loved the idea that the stop to them being together was Ryder and that, ironically, her father really had no issue with it (don't worry, happens really early) and you know almost immediately that it is his sense of duty (hence the title) that is causing any issues with them being together.
The writing was strong, as was the pacing around the relationship. There were parts that I felt were cut out too early, but this was around the bug, and the issues that were brought up in the other books.
For the relationship, the chemistry, and the story of Hadley and Ryder, I totally recommend this book...but if you are looking for a lot of forward momentum in the other story, there is not a lot in this one. It is not totally ignored, but it feels like a lot less of a focus than it was in the earlier books.
I do recommend this book.
May 5, 2017
-This is the third book in the series
-Works as a standalone
-Took me awhile to get into the story. This is all me, but I just could not muster the enthusiasm to stick with this book at first. I struggled to connect with either of them. When I realized that the only person objecting to a relationship with Hadley was Ryder himself, it didn’t quite work for me. Hadley’s issues only revealed themselves the deeper you went into the tale, which is fine but it felt fabricated to an extent, sort of a way to make up for the fact that the obstacle of Ryder’s guilt wasn’t that strong to begin with.
-Overarching storyline has some movement but it’s minimal. The real teaser is at the end of the story and I think the next installment has the real potential to give me some satisfaction regarding the overarching storyline, which is what has kept my interest in this series.
-There’s some more BDSM than previous entries, though this series is all about them settling down and getting out of the life. If that is something that intrigues you
The Bottom Line
It was good enough read. I think the story really picked up in the second half and finished stronger than it started for me. I’m curious about the next installment, so I would continue with this series.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
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April 2, 2017
'Restrained Under His Duty' by Stacey Kennedy is book Three in the "Dirty Little Secrets" series. This is the story of Ryder Blackwood and Hadley Winters. This can be a standalone book and it does have its HEA, but the total series has an underlining story that are related.
Ryder is a Senator's Head of Security who has been in love it seems with his daughter Hadley, but has kept his distance. Then Ryder is sent a scandalous threatening photo of Hadley in an underground sex club. Ryder and some of his friends have a secret business in a Sex Club. Which lately the Sex Club have been targeted and someone has been spying on them. Now Ryder goes forward to help protect Hadley and the Senator. Hadley feels that Ryder is everything she has been looking. I loved these two together! This was a fast past, hot enjoyable read! Another great story by Ms. Kennedy!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Ryder is a Senator's Head of Security who has been in love it seems with his daughter Hadley, but has kept his distance. Then Ryder is sent a scandalous threatening photo of Hadley in an underground sex club. Ryder and some of his friends have a secret business in a Sex Club. Which lately the Sex Club have been targeted and someone has been spying on them. Now Ryder goes forward to help protect Hadley and the Senator. Hadley feels that Ryder is everything she has been looking. I loved these two together! This was a fast past, hot enjoyable read! Another great story by Ms. Kennedy!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
April 30, 2018
4.5 stars.
ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was thrilled to receive this copy having already read the previous two books in this series. This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the whole series in chronological order (they are just all so very good!).
I have loved all of these books and Ryder and Hadley's story is no exception. It has just the right amount of sexiness, suspense and held my interest from start to finish. I like the elements of BDSM present they add some spice but don't overwhelm the story itself. Kudos to Stacey Kennedy for another fabulous book. Bring on book number four.
ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was thrilled to receive this copy having already read the previous two books in this series. This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the whole series in chronological order (they are just all so very good!).
I have loved all of these books and Ryder and Hadley's story is no exception. It has just the right amount of sexiness, suspense and held my interest from start to finish. I like the elements of BDSM present they add some spice but don't overwhelm the story itself. Kudos to Stacey Kennedy for another fabulous book. Bring on book number four.
April 2, 2017
I really enjoyed this one! It's very well written and the characters are intriguing. The sex is seriously hot and the twists and turns in the story kept things interesting. There's also a nice pace to the story making it one you don't want to miss.
Ryder Blackwood never realized that providing security for a very public senator could bring so much trouble with it. Trouble in the name of Hadley Winters, the senators daughter. He tries to stifle the attraction he feels when it comes to Hadley but some things are too strong to ignore. As their relationship begins to form they found themselves in so very dangerous situations and Hadley has to depend on Ryder for more than she ever imagined.
Ryder Blackwood never realized that providing security for a very public senator could bring so much trouble with it. Trouble in the name of Hadley Winters, the senators daughter. He tries to stifle the attraction he feels when it comes to Hadley but some things are too strong to ignore. As their relationship begins to form they found themselves in so very dangerous situations and Hadley has to depend on Ryder for more than she ever imagined.
April 11, 2017
This author writes some super hot stories and this one is no exception. I also must say that the storyline was just as good, it kept you guessing who was behind all the blackmail and then just when you think its over, you get to the end ony to be surprised some more. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
April 13, 2017
Restrained Under His Duty was my first Stacey Kennedy book and it will certainly not be my last. While it is part of a series, it can absolutely be read as a standalone. In fact, I didn't know it was part of a series until I started doing the review. Each book can be read as a standalone that focuses on different heroes with a different stories that are unique to each other.
Ryder has been in love with his Boss' daughter for over a year now, who happens to be the daughter of a prominent Senator. His loyalty to the Senator has convinced Ryder that nothing can ever happen between the two of them but the desire and the connection might just be too strong to keep him away.
Over the years, Hadley has made it very clear what she wants from Ryder. Including an innocent declaration when she was just a young child. While she has lived her life, she's always wanted Ryder to be the man in her life and she has seeked comfort in other places that just might be coming back to haunt her and her father's political career.
Someone wants Hadley's father out of the game and things get ugly. We get to watch Ryder not only struggle with keeping his Boss safe but he now has even more personal ties to keep Hadley safe and happy.
I enjoyed this book and I didn't expect there to be as much drama as there was. The danger revolving around the Senator and the protection that Hadley needs to not only keep her past life out of the spotlight but her own safety really did add to the overall storyline.
I just adored Hadley. She speaks her mind. She knows what she wants. She doesn't make apologizes for what she does. She owns up to it and eventually discovers why she did some of those things. She made it very clear to Ryder what she wanted and while there was times that you could see how vulnerable she could be, her strength always shines through.
Ryder's struggle was fun to watch. I know that sounds bad but I enjoyed watching Hadley go after him and make him have to work that much harder to stay away from her. He's extremely loyal to both Hadley and her father and he generally has a good heart. Add that one top of his dominant tendencies and he is one very desirable hero that will melt your heart, flush your skin and increase your pulse.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read more from this series. If you are looking for that taboo(ish) relationship with the bodyguard/protection theme, steamy times, dominant tendencies and fun banter, then this might be the book for you. I definitely recommend you read it.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
Ryder has been in love with his Boss' daughter for over a year now, who happens to be the daughter of a prominent Senator. His loyalty to the Senator has convinced Ryder that nothing can ever happen between the two of them but the desire and the connection might just be too strong to keep him away.
Over the years, Hadley has made it very clear what she wants from Ryder. Including an innocent declaration when she was just a young child. While she has lived her life, she's always wanted Ryder to be the man in her life and she has seeked comfort in other places that just might be coming back to haunt her and her father's political career.
Someone wants Hadley's father out of the game and things get ugly. We get to watch Ryder not only struggle with keeping his Boss safe but he now has even more personal ties to keep Hadley safe and happy.
I enjoyed this book and I didn't expect there to be as much drama as there was. The danger revolving around the Senator and the protection that Hadley needs to not only keep her past life out of the spotlight but her own safety really did add to the overall storyline.
I just adored Hadley. She speaks her mind. She knows what she wants. She doesn't make apologizes for what she does. She owns up to it and eventually discovers why she did some of those things. She made it very clear to Ryder what she wanted and while there was times that you could see how vulnerable she could be, her strength always shines through.
Ryder's struggle was fun to watch. I know that sounds bad but I enjoyed watching Hadley go after him and make him have to work that much harder to stay away from her. He's extremely loyal to both Hadley and her father and he generally has a good heart. Add that one top of his dominant tendencies and he is one very desirable hero that will melt your heart, flush your skin and increase your pulse.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read more from this series. If you are looking for that taboo(ish) relationship with the bodyguard/protection theme, steamy times, dominant tendencies and fun banter, then this might be the book for you. I definitely recommend you read it.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
December 22, 2017
Ummm. Stacey Kennedy's books are my kindle crack. They are always HOT. Always SEXY. And always ADDICTING. I have followed the Dirty Little Secrets series from the beginning and honestly when I read the blurb for Restrained Under His Duty I k ew it would be fantastic!! Gahhh!! This story was sooooo hot and sexy and lord bodyguard and forbidden fruit stories are my kryptonite!!!! Ryder and Hadley were FIRE BLAZING hot!! I never wanted it to end!!
While Restrained Under His Duty is a standalone it does follow an ongoing mystery from the previous books. When Ryder Blackwood, Chief of Security to Hadley Winter's father (a Senator) comes across a sex tape video belonging to Hadley -the woman who has been the subject of his intense desire and longing - they uncover a diabolical plot to ruin her father. But when lines get crossed and danger follows them everywhere will Ryder be able to keep Hadley safe?
I really enjoyed this story and the fiery passion and attraction between Ryder and Hadley. Their banter was smart and sexy and I honestly was stuck to the pages from the getgo. I look forward to jumping into book 4 immediately!! I would like to thank Netgalley and Random House Publishing - Loveswept for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo, 4 stars! ~Ratula
While Restrained Under His Duty is a standalone it does follow an ongoing mystery from the previous books. When Ryder Blackwood, Chief of Security to Hadley Winter's father (a Senator) comes across a sex tape video belonging to Hadley -the woman who has been the subject of his intense desire and longing - they uncover a diabolical plot to ruin her father. But when lines get crossed and danger follows them everywhere will Ryder be able to keep Hadley safe?
I really enjoyed this story and the fiery passion and attraction between Ryder and Hadley. Their banter was smart and sexy and I honestly was stuck to the pages from the getgo. I look forward to jumping into book 4 immediately!! I would like to thank Netgalley and Random House Publishing - Loveswept for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo, 4 stars! ~Ratula
March 23, 2017
Restrained Under His Duty is a delicious read full of suspense, forbidden romance and intense chemistry.
While this book is the third in a series you definitely don't need to read the first two and this can be read as a complete standalone.
This book is full of suspense moments, with elements of danger mixed in along with the undeniable sexual chemistry between Hadley and Ryder. Ryder is strong, confident and his protectiveness towards Hadley and the Senator is SWOON WORTHY. There is great push and pull between Hadley and Ryder as they try to navigate their relationship between Ryder needing to be professional in his job to protect her and her father as well as their desire for one another. When the need for desire can't be contained it's quite explosive and Ryder's dominance will have you fanning yourself. There are also elements of BDSM in this book that I think are just the right amount to have your pulse racing but not overdone.
As Ryder and Hadley try to figure out who is blackmailing them you are kept on your toes almost trying to figure it out with them. However the Author throws some twists and turns your way. Just when you think that it might be over and it's all figured out you get another huge incident that will have your breath stop for a minute and you will find you can't take your eyes of the pages finding out what happens next.
I will definitely be wanting to read the first two books in this series and look foward to more to come.
While this book is the third in a series you definitely don't need to read the first two and this can be read as a complete standalone.
This book is full of suspense moments, with elements of danger mixed in along with the undeniable sexual chemistry between Hadley and Ryder. Ryder is strong, confident and his protectiveness towards Hadley and the Senator is SWOON WORTHY. There is great push and pull between Hadley and Ryder as they try to navigate their relationship between Ryder needing to be professional in his job to protect her and her father as well as their desire for one another. When the need for desire can't be contained it's quite explosive and Ryder's dominance will have you fanning yourself. There are also elements of BDSM in this book that I think are just the right amount to have your pulse racing but not overdone.
As Ryder and Hadley try to figure out who is blackmailing them you are kept on your toes almost trying to figure it out with them. However the Author throws some twists and turns your way. Just when you think that it might be over and it's all figured out you get another huge incident that will have your breath stop for a minute and you will find you can't take your eyes of the pages finding out what happens next.
I will definitely be wanting to read the first two books in this series and look foward to more to come.
March 21, 2017
Restrained Under His Duty (Dirty Little Secrets #3) by Stacey Kennedy
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Blackmail, kidnapping, attempted murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have not read previous stories in this series. While this story does hint at other people from previous book, I didn't feel that I was missing anything.
This is more of a story about protecting those you have come to care about.
Ryder is a bodyguard/security for a well known senator. He has worked for him several years and would do anything for him. When the daughter of the senator, Hadley, is blackmailed in to getting her father to retire, Ryder steps in to help solve the situation.
Not only is Ryder attracted to Hadley, but it goes both ways. Their mutual attraction simmers almost the entire book.
With people attacking the senator, Hadley, and Ryder and his friends, Ryder definitely has his hands full.
It's almost a race against time and the book is fast paced and well developed. I liked how despite their attraction, they also were independent, not co-dependent.
I really enjoyed this story.
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Blackmail, kidnapping, attempted murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have not read previous stories in this series. While this story does hint at other people from previous book, I didn't feel that I was missing anything.
This is more of a story about protecting those you have come to care about.
Ryder is a bodyguard/security for a well known senator. He has worked for him several years and would do anything for him. When the daughter of the senator, Hadley, is blackmailed in to getting her father to retire, Ryder steps in to help solve the situation.
Not only is Ryder attracted to Hadley, but it goes both ways. Their mutual attraction simmers almost the entire book.
With people attacking the senator, Hadley, and Ryder and his friends, Ryder definitely has his hands full.
It's almost a race against time and the book is fast paced and well developed. I liked how despite their attraction, they also were independent, not co-dependent.
I really enjoyed this story.
December 2, 2017
Ryder Blackwood, chief of security for a prominent senator has it bad for his daughter for what seems like forever. Anonymously, he receives a scandalous photo of Hadley, while in an underground sex club. Not only would it be bad for the senator, but the compromising photo will be bad for Hadley as well. But that's not the worst part. The worst part is the arousal he gains from just looking at her in the photo. He never knew she was into bondage....
Hadley is a risk taker. She takes risks because it makes her feel. She's been into Ryder for a long time, but he continually rebuffs her advances out of loyalty to her father. He makes her feel protected and safe-something she craves. She is also sent the incriminating photo with a message directed at her father. Ryder and his team try to find out what the blackmailer is really after. Until they solve this problem, Ryder takes on Hadley's security personally.
As they work the angles of the threat, it seems Hadley is just a pawn in the scheme to get to the senator. Politics is a rough game. People with a lot of money have a lot to gain or lose, depending on bills that are passed. Stakes get higher as information is scarce and no one knows who to trust.
Restrained Under His Duty is book Three in Stacey Kennedy's Dirty Little Secrets series and it's the best yet! I loved Ryder and his work ethic. He has it bad for Hadley, but doesn't want to shirk his duty either. He's just a jumble. They finally start opening up to each other when Hadley is under Ryder's personal protection. Things get out of hand and their sexual tension boils over. Ryder wars with himself-still. Hadley just wants Ryder. But someone is out there watching their every move.
There was a lot of suspense right from the beginning! Stacey Kennedy stories are always well written and she as a knack for getting you to feel what her characters are. The suspense was ramping up and so were the feelings! Tension was high and I had to find out what I wanted to know!! Being third in the series, there are prior characters that are involved here too, and an underlying story weaving throughout, but it isn't a must to read the others prior to this one. You definitely will want to though, because those books are also awesome to enjoy. Plus it can give you some insight going into this story! We have one more book in this series, and I am dying to read Gabe's story! Bring it on!
4.5 Stars/4 Flames
This book was gifted to me by the Jeep Diva for an honest review. The review and ratings are solely my opinions.
Hadley is a risk taker. She takes risks because it makes her feel. She's been into Ryder for a long time, but he continually rebuffs her advances out of loyalty to her father. He makes her feel protected and safe-something she craves. She is also sent the incriminating photo with a message directed at her father. Ryder and his team try to find out what the blackmailer is really after. Until they solve this problem, Ryder takes on Hadley's security personally.
As they work the angles of the threat, it seems Hadley is just a pawn in the scheme to get to the senator. Politics is a rough game. People with a lot of money have a lot to gain or lose, depending on bills that are passed. Stakes get higher as information is scarce and no one knows who to trust.
Restrained Under His Duty is book Three in Stacey Kennedy's Dirty Little Secrets series and it's the best yet! I loved Ryder and his work ethic. He has it bad for Hadley, but doesn't want to shirk his duty either. He's just a jumble. They finally start opening up to each other when Hadley is under Ryder's personal protection. Things get out of hand and their sexual tension boils over. Ryder wars with himself-still. Hadley just wants Ryder. But someone is out there watching their every move.
There was a lot of suspense right from the beginning! Stacey Kennedy stories are always well written and she as a knack for getting you to feel what her characters are. The suspense was ramping up and so were the feelings! Tension was high and I had to find out what I wanted to know!! Being third in the series, there are prior characters that are involved here too, and an underlying story weaving throughout, but it isn't a must to read the others prior to this one. You definitely will want to though, because those books are also awesome to enjoy. Plus it can give you some insight going into this story! We have one more book in this series, and I am dying to read Gabe's story! Bring it on!
4.5 Stars/4 Flames
This book was gifted to me by the Jeep Diva for an honest review. The review and ratings are solely my opinions.
March 13, 2020
Dirty little Secrets - Entfesselt ist der dritte Teil der Dirty little Secrets Reihe von Stacey Kennedy. Das Buch kann aber auch ohne Vorkenntnisse gelesen werden.
In Entfesselt geht es um Ryder und Hadley, die sich schon ewig kennen und obwohl sie schon lange Gefühle für einander haben, steht zu viel zwischen ihnen.
Als Ryder sich doch auf Hadley einlässt, passiert genau das, wovor Ryder am meisten Angst hatte und plötzlich verschieben sich die Prioritäten.
Entfesselt ist ein Erotikthriller, der explizite Sprache und Handlungen aufweist. Desweiteren wird das Thema Unterwerfung und Sex mit mehreren angeschnitten, man sollte sich also vorher klar sein, worauf man sich einlässt.
Ich muss gestehen, mir ging es zwischen Ryder und Hadley trotz großem Brimborium, warum es eben nicht geht, dann doch zu schnell. Das Kribbeln und die Anziehungskraft wurden zwar beschrieben, ich konnte das aber nur bedingt nachvollziehen. Als sie sich endlich auf einander einlassen, konnte die Autorin mich dann deutlich besser abholen, auch wenn ich in einigen Szenen immer noch das Gefühl hatte, eher oberflächlicher Beobachter zu sein, statt mitzufiebern.
Da allerdings der Thrillerteil durchaus spannend war, fühlte ich mich letztendlich doch recht gut unterhalten.
Den nächsten Teil werde ich eventuell auch lesen, denn die Konstellation und die Ausgangssituation, die hier am Ende bereits beschrieben wurde, klingt vielversprechend.
Die ersten beiden Teile werde ich hingegen nicht mehr lesen. Dazu wirkten die beiden Protagonisten, um die es geht, in diesem Band einfach zu blass.
Ich vergebe 3,5 von 5 Sternen.
In Entfesselt geht es um Ryder und Hadley, die sich schon ewig kennen und obwohl sie schon lange Gefühle für einander haben, steht zu viel zwischen ihnen.
Als Ryder sich doch auf Hadley einlässt, passiert genau das, wovor Ryder am meisten Angst hatte und plötzlich verschieben sich die Prioritäten.
Entfesselt ist ein Erotikthriller, der explizite Sprache und Handlungen aufweist. Desweiteren wird das Thema Unterwerfung und Sex mit mehreren angeschnitten, man sollte sich also vorher klar sein, worauf man sich einlässt.
Ich muss gestehen, mir ging es zwischen Ryder und Hadley trotz großem Brimborium, warum es eben nicht geht, dann doch zu schnell. Das Kribbeln und die Anziehungskraft wurden zwar beschrieben, ich konnte das aber nur bedingt nachvollziehen. Als sie sich endlich auf einander einlassen, konnte die Autorin mich dann deutlich besser abholen, auch wenn ich in einigen Szenen immer noch das Gefühl hatte, eher oberflächlicher Beobachter zu sein, statt mitzufiebern.
Da allerdings der Thrillerteil durchaus spannend war, fühlte ich mich letztendlich doch recht gut unterhalten.
Den nächsten Teil werde ich eventuell auch lesen, denn die Konstellation und die Ausgangssituation, die hier am Ende bereits beschrieben wurde, klingt vielversprechend.
Die ersten beiden Teile werde ich hingegen nicht mehr lesen. Dazu wirkten die beiden Protagonisten, um die es geht, in diesem Band einfach zu blass.
Ich vergebe 3,5 von 5 Sternen.
February 8, 2020
Stacy Kennedy ist eine neue Autorin für mich und sie hat mich mit kleinen Abstrichen überzeugt. Die Geschichte und die Charaktere sind sehr gut ausgearbeitet und die erotischen Momente richtig heiß. Leider fand ich in diesem Buch zu viel Mikromimik beschrieben, dabei waren wichtige Gedankengänge nicht ganz ausformuliert, was mich gerade in den Krimielementen doch gestört hat. Es gibt recht wenig Nebenfiguren, sodass mir sehr schnell klar war, wer der Täter ist. Außerdem fehlt mir bei den Bedrohungshandlungen der rote Faden und das Motiv fand ich ein wenig sehr fantasievoll. Ich habe auch ein leichtes Problem damit, dass die Männer grundsätzlich immer alle Multimillionäre sein müssen.
Aber:
Das ist Jammern auf recht hohem Niveau. Das Buch hat mich durch klare Charaktere überzeugt und die Tatsache, dass die Protagonisten wussten, was sie wollen. Ryder ist ein toller Mann und kann Hadley geben was sie braucht.
Auch der Zusammenhalt innerhalb der Firma und Hadleys Familie erwärmt mein Herz. Und Fehler werden in dieser Geschichte zwar gemacht, aber auch offen diskutiert und vergeben.
Man kann das Buch lesen, ohne die anderen Teile zu kennen und es ist genau richtig für einen verregneten Sonntag auf dem Sofa, da es alles beinhaltet, was ein gutes Buch braucht: Spannung, Spiel und Schokolade ähm, nein falscher Text. Spannung, sexy Protagonisten und herzerwärmende Gefühle.
Fazit: Lesenswert für alle die das Genre Romance/ Romantic Suspense mögen.
Ich ziehe wegen meiner Kritikpunkte ein Sternchen ab , kann das Buch aber guten Gewissens von Herzen empfehlen.
Aber:
Das ist Jammern auf recht hohem Niveau. Das Buch hat mich durch klare Charaktere überzeugt und die Tatsache, dass die Protagonisten wussten, was sie wollen. Ryder ist ein toller Mann und kann Hadley geben was sie braucht.
Auch der Zusammenhalt innerhalb der Firma und Hadleys Familie erwärmt mein Herz. Und Fehler werden in dieser Geschichte zwar gemacht, aber auch offen diskutiert und vergeben.
Man kann das Buch lesen, ohne die anderen Teile zu kennen und es ist genau richtig für einen verregneten Sonntag auf dem Sofa, da es alles beinhaltet, was ein gutes Buch braucht: Spannung, Spiel und Schokolade ähm, nein falscher Text. Spannung, sexy Protagonisten und herzerwärmende Gefühle.
Fazit: Lesenswert für alle die das Genre Romance/ Romantic Suspense mögen.
Ich ziehe wegen meiner Kritikpunkte ein Sternchen ab , kann das Buch aber guten Gewissens von Herzen empfehlen.
July 18, 2018
This was such an exciting story! I was pulled in right away to the push and pull between Ryder and Hadley and I loved the element of mystery involved. It was awesome and I was hooked!
Hadley and Ryder had such amazing chemistry and I loved that building sexual tension between them. I liked the back and forth they had going on as feelings are fought. It made for some tense, heated moments. I really liked learning their backgrounds and the build to the story as everything developed. I loved them opening up and sharing as well.
I thought the writing was great. It's got an edge-of-your-seat build happening, lots of heat and intriguing characters. There is drama and emotion in play but it isn't overly deep, just the right amount to pull you in. This has been a really good series and I've enjoyed all the guys and I'm excited for what's to come next in the final book. I really liked the hook in the epilogue making me want to jump right in to Cuffed by His Charm.
This was a thrilling story that kept me on my toes with just the right amount of suspense mixed in. I really liked the characters, their back and forth and the want and need they had for one another. There was a great build, a lot of heat, drama and emotion. This had everything I enjoy in story: a bit of playfulness, great characters, a lot of sexy (so hot!), excellent drama, and perfect build that had me on the edge of my seat.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Hadley and Ryder had such amazing chemistry and I loved that building sexual tension between them. I liked the back and forth they had going on as feelings are fought. It made for some tense, heated moments. I really liked learning their backgrounds and the build to the story as everything developed. I loved them opening up and sharing as well.
I thought the writing was great. It's got an edge-of-your-seat build happening, lots of heat and intriguing characters. There is drama and emotion in play but it isn't overly deep, just the right amount to pull you in. This has been a really good series and I've enjoyed all the guys and I'm excited for what's to come next in the final book. I really liked the hook in the epilogue making me want to jump right in to Cuffed by His Charm.
This was a thrilling story that kept me on my toes with just the right amount of suspense mixed in. I really liked the characters, their back and forth and the want and need they had for one another. There was a great build, a lot of heat, drama and emotion. This had everything I enjoy in story: a bit of playfulness, great characters, a lot of sexy (so hot!), excellent drama, and perfect build that had me on the edge of my seat.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
July 3, 2017
I had been waiting for Ryder's story for a while, we first met him in the first book of the series, Bound Beneath His Pain, and there was just something about him that enticed me. It could have been his ruggish good looks or it could have been the fact that no matter what he is always there to help his friends out when they need him.
You can read my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
You can read my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
March 28, 2017
An action packed, explosive, romantic suspense that's a must read! I have been hooked on this series from the beginning, and it just keeps getting better and hotter! Ryder and Hadley's story is full of the intense chemistry between them, secrets, lies, betrayal, blackmail, and intriguing twists that will have you guessing till the end. This story will capture you right from the start, and keep you on the edge of your seat till the very end. It was an outstanding book, and a great addition to this addictive series!
Ryder and his three best friends, who comprise the very secret and elusive Dominants Council, are all very successful billionaires, and each the secret owner of their own BDSM club. Since two of the three have been "domesticated," the trouble with the tabloids, and their own issues coming about, there might be changes in the horizon for these sexy alpha men.
Ryder has tried to keep his feelings for Hadley to himself, turned her down repeatedly, but nothing seems to work. His first duty is to her father, the senator, who has become more than just a job for Ryder. The senator has been more of a father than his own ever was, helped him create his security business, and so much more, that he refuses to get involved with his daughter, until he can't resist anymore.
Hadley has been in love with Ryder for years, tried to get him to put his duty aside for her, but he continues to refuse her. When she gets a pop-up that she's being blackmailed, she knows that she should tell him, but is embarrassed by what's on the video. When he intercepts the same video being sent to her father, she realizes that things are more dangerous than she thought. While protecting her, neither are able to stay away, and things are getting complicated.
Will they be able to figure out who the blackmailer is before the video is to be released? With her father's career and her reputation at stake, will they figure out what is going on before someone gets hurt, or worse? When they can't fight their attraction any longer, will it end up being their downfall in the end? This is a fantastic, romantic suspense that you won't want to miss!
If you haven't read this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. You'll get amazing stories, sexy alpha males and their beautiful strong women, learn about each couple, and the dynamics between the friends. You won't be disappointed!
I strongly recommend this book, series, and exceptional author!
I have voluntarily reviewed this arc I received from the publisher via NetGalley.
Ryder and his three best friends, who comprise the very secret and elusive Dominants Council, are all very successful billionaires, and each the secret owner of their own BDSM club. Since two of the three have been "domesticated," the trouble with the tabloids, and their own issues coming about, there might be changes in the horizon for these sexy alpha men.
Ryder has tried to keep his feelings for Hadley to himself, turned her down repeatedly, but nothing seems to work. His first duty is to her father, the senator, who has become more than just a job for Ryder. The senator has been more of a father than his own ever was, helped him create his security business, and so much more, that he refuses to get involved with his daughter, until he can't resist anymore.
Hadley has been in love with Ryder for years, tried to get him to put his duty aside for her, but he continues to refuse her. When she gets a pop-up that she's being blackmailed, she knows that she should tell him, but is embarrassed by what's on the video. When he intercepts the same video being sent to her father, she realizes that things are more dangerous than she thought. While protecting her, neither are able to stay away, and things are getting complicated.
Will they be able to figure out who the blackmailer is before the video is to be released? With her father's career and her reputation at stake, will they figure out what is going on before someone gets hurt, or worse? When they can't fight their attraction any longer, will it end up being their downfall in the end? This is a fantastic, romantic suspense that you won't want to miss!
If you haven't read this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. You'll get amazing stories, sexy alpha males and their beautiful strong women, learn about each couple, and the dynamics between the friends. You won't be disappointed!
I strongly recommend this book, series, and exceptional author!
I have voluntarily reviewed this arc I received from the publisher via NetGalley.
May 20, 2017
http://i869.photobucket.com/albums/ab...
Restrained Under His Duty was a great 5 star read.
I’m the one man she needs, and she’s the very woman I crave.
Ryder has a problem. He is very attracted to the Senator’s daughter, a woman that is very off limits to him and could distract him from his job of protecting her father. Especially when he intercepts a video that is sent to her father.
Hadley works for her father, she does a great job of managing his calendar. To keep her mind off of Ryder and deal with his rejections she has a secret life that ends up coming back to haunt her with a blackmail scheme to get her father out of office.
Sometimes life happens, and reckless or not, you just gotta roll with it.
Ryder had to step up the protection for both Hadley and her father. He is surprised to find out that Hadley was a regular at one of his clubs. When Hadley finds out what Ryder’s sexual needs and desires are things really heat up. The sex between these two was burning up the pages.
We get suspense, danger, hot sex, light BDSM and some twists and surprises. It was great reading about these two and their journey to a HEA. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from this couple. Hadley was a strong and stubborn character and Ryder was a dominant who really knew what he wanted but it took danger and threats for him to finally act on them. I loved it and highly suggest you 1-click and get started today.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
March 19, 2017
I did not put book down. I don't know how Stacey does it, but each new book in the series just keeps getting better. This one was the kicker. Book 3 of the series is about Ryder and Hadley.
I'll preface this by saying and I can't say it enough... read the first two books. They are outstanding.
Ryder Blackwood is the owner of Blackwood Securities, the ultra elite security firm charged with covering Senator Winters and his family. Daughter Hadley has had it bad for Ryder since she was young, but she's cranked up the heat the past year only to be shut down by Ryder. Ryder is hands off, despite their chemistry which is so obvious. Ryder and Hadley's father are close, as well as being his responsibly for security. Hadley's gotten herself into a bit of a mess and it now threatens her fathers Senate seat. This sets up the story which brings multiple dangers to not just the Senator but Hadley, Ryder and the Dominants Council. For a quick backstory on the DC; Ryder, Gabe (pub owner) Micah and Darius. They, along with being successful businessmen; quietly own very high end sex clubs. Lately they've found themselves in the tabloids for reasons unknown with stories that aren't true. That's a subplot thread that's run through each book. This book brings them closer to how this has been happening, we get the story by default through this one.
Someone is blackmailing Hadley to get her father to step down from office. The clock is ticking and they have 2 days to find out who it is. Meanwhile things heat up between Ryder and Hadley, thank god.... at long last. If anyone can write panty melting, smoking hot steam with a little side order of kink it's Stacey.
Between the suspense in this story, which was so well written and with some amazing twists and turns this is my favorite book thus far in the series.
The characters had depth, the dialogue was smooth, the sex was really well done and not tedious. And ladies you know what I'm saying... Ryder Blackwood has more than a few tricks up his amazing sex sleeve. No redundancy there. There is real emotion in this book and you can sense that when you read it. The plot was so well done and the twists... Read this book!!!
This is a must read. Leaves you with a nice book buzz when you finish reading it!! Bravo Stacey!
So damn good! I'd give it 10 stars.
**arc from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for a fair review**
I'll preface this by saying and I can't say it enough... read the first two books. They are outstanding.
Ryder Blackwood is the owner of Blackwood Securities, the ultra elite security firm charged with covering Senator Winters and his family. Daughter Hadley has had it bad for Ryder since she was young, but she's cranked up the heat the past year only to be shut down by Ryder. Ryder is hands off, despite their chemistry which is so obvious. Ryder and Hadley's father are close, as well as being his responsibly for security. Hadley's gotten herself into a bit of a mess and it now threatens her fathers Senate seat. This sets up the story which brings multiple dangers to not just the Senator but Hadley, Ryder and the Dominants Council. For a quick backstory on the DC; Ryder, Gabe (pub owner) Micah and Darius. They, along with being successful businessmen; quietly own very high end sex clubs. Lately they've found themselves in the tabloids for reasons unknown with stories that aren't true. That's a subplot thread that's run through each book. This book brings them closer to how this has been happening, we get the story by default through this one.
Someone is blackmailing Hadley to get her father to step down from office. The clock is ticking and they have 2 days to find out who it is. Meanwhile things heat up between Ryder and Hadley, thank god.... at long last. If anyone can write panty melting, smoking hot steam with a little side order of kink it's Stacey.
Between the suspense in this story, which was so well written and with some amazing twists and turns this is my favorite book thus far in the series.
The characters had depth, the dialogue was smooth, the sex was really well done and not tedious. And ladies you know what I'm saying... Ryder Blackwood has more than a few tricks up his amazing sex sleeve. No redundancy there. There is real emotion in this book and you can sense that when you read it. The plot was so well done and the twists... Read this book!!!
This is a must read. Leaves you with a nice book buzz when you finish reading it!! Bravo Stacey!
So damn good! I'd give it 10 stars.
**arc from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for a fair review**
May 16, 2017
Surprisingly this is the first book that I have read by Stacey Kennedy and I am absolutely positive it will not be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Restrained Under His Duty’ and although part of a series it can be read as a standalone. That being said i do wish that I had read the others in the series before this one as there is mention of some of what has already happened in the other ‘Dirty Little Secrets’ books however it was still a 4.5 star read for me.
Hadley Winters and Ryder Blackwood are brilliant characters and I loved getting to know them both. Ryder runs a security company and runs detail for the Senator that he owes so much too but this has also meant getting to know and protecting the Senator’s daughter.
Hadley has always had a thing for Ryder but he is never one to take her up on her flirtations. To deal with her sexual needs Hadley is a member of an exclusive and private sex club but when she is being blackmailed with some steamy images of her the only one that can really protect her is Ryder.
The chemistry and heat between these two is hot and you can’t help but love them as a couple. As they work out who is behind the blackmail and what exactly they are after they bicker, they banter and they struggle to keep their hands off each other. The other characters are well written too and made me wish I had read the other books before this one and I think I would have loved to have read them all in sequence. This gives you a mystery that is only partly solved and that is the thread that runs through all the ‘Dirty Little Secrets’ books so I will be reading more to find out exactly what is going on.
A great book and I am looking forward to reading more.
Hadley Winters and Ryder Blackwood are brilliant characters and I loved getting to know them both. Ryder runs a security company and runs detail for the Senator that he owes so much too but this has also meant getting to know and protecting the Senator’s daughter.
Hadley has always had a thing for Ryder but he is never one to take her up on her flirtations. To deal with her sexual needs Hadley is a member of an exclusive and private sex club but when she is being blackmailed with some steamy images of her the only one that can really protect her is Ryder.
The chemistry and heat between these two is hot and you can’t help but love them as a couple. As they work out who is behind the blackmail and what exactly they are after they bicker, they banter and they struggle to keep their hands off each other. The other characters are well written too and made me wish I had read the other books before this one and I think I would have loved to have read them all in sequence. This gives you a mystery that is only partly solved and that is the thread that runs through all the ‘Dirty Little Secrets’ books so I will be reading more to find out exactly what is going on.
A great book and I am looking forward to reading more.
April 9, 2017
I love, LOVE the Dirty Little Secret series by Stacy Kennedy. Each story was erotic, hot and full of suspense. This story is no different and I loved this story because of the bodyguard storyline.
Ryder has his work cut out for him because of who he is guarding –his client, the Senator, comes along with a daughter that he has secretly wanted for many years but has kept his distance. Then Ryder is sent a scandalous photo of his client’s daughter in a compromising position with a threat attached to it. This picture was secretly taken in an underground sex club. For Ryder, he and some of his friends have a secret business in a Sex Club. It seems Hadley, the client’s daughter is being used and Ryder and his friends also have been targeted and been spying on them.
The attraction and the chemistry with Hadley and Ryder was wonderful, it was hot, and it was compelling. Hadley has never forgotten her young love which turned into a deep love for Ryder. She felt him pull away from her and she never understood it so she threw herself into the underground sex club scene. Because of that ,she is being threatened. There are complications, threats, secrets, blackmailer, and oh so much more. But the biggest is Ryder’s inability to deal with the lust he has for Hadley. Will he be able, in time, to figure out what and who is important or will he lose the most important person in his life—forever?
My rating: 4.7 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Ryder has his work cut out for him because of who he is guarding –his client, the Senator, comes along with a daughter that he has secretly wanted for many years but has kept his distance. Then Ryder is sent a scandalous photo of his client’s daughter in a compromising position with a threat attached to it. This picture was secretly taken in an underground sex club. For Ryder, he and some of his friends have a secret business in a Sex Club. It seems Hadley, the client’s daughter is being used and Ryder and his friends also have been targeted and been spying on them.
The attraction and the chemistry with Hadley and Ryder was wonderful, it was hot, and it was compelling. Hadley has never forgotten her young love which turned into a deep love for Ryder. She felt him pull away from her and she never understood it so she threw herself into the underground sex club scene. Because of that ,she is being threatened. There are complications, threats, secrets, blackmailer, and oh so much more. But the biggest is Ryder’s inability to deal with the lust he has for Hadley. Will he be able, in time, to figure out what and who is important or will he lose the most important person in his life—forever?
My rating: 4.7 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
April 4, 2017
Surrender to temptation.
Book given in exchange of an honest review.
http://thesecretworldofbooklovers.blo...
I'm in love with this series! It has just the right amount of mystery, excitement and crazy good sex scenes.
Let's not forget these hot alpha males of the Council, I loved each and every story about them and I can't wait for the next one.
This time it was Ryder's turn, he always seemed so controlled and cold, but in this book we see him loose a bit of that while he crumbles under Hadley's feet.
He feels he has a duty towards her father and that tortures him through the whole book, but we know that an attraction as strong as theirs can't be stopped and he is loosing the battle against his mind.
Hadley knows she has wanted him since she was young, he is everything she needs and nothing will get in her way of getting him. She has demons of her own and she needs Ryder to save her; it's a challenge he can't resist, once he truly sees her there's no turning back.
They are fighting together against a common enemy and at the same time trying to figure out how they feel about each other.
The book is full of thrilling and suspenseful moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat, I couldn't put the book down.
Book given in exchange of an honest review.
http://thesecretworldofbooklovers.blo...
I'm in love with this series! It has just the right amount of mystery, excitement and crazy good sex scenes.
Let's not forget these hot alpha males of the Council, I loved each and every story about them and I can't wait for the next one.
This time it was Ryder's turn, he always seemed so controlled and cold, but in this book we see him loose a bit of that while he crumbles under Hadley's feet.
He feels he has a duty towards her father and that tortures him through the whole book, but we know that an attraction as strong as theirs can't be stopped and he is loosing the battle against his mind.
Hadley knows she has wanted him since she was young, he is everything she needs and nothing will get in her way of getting him. She has demons of her own and she needs Ryder to save her; it's a challenge he can't resist, once he truly sees her there's no turning back.
They are fighting together against a common enemy and at the same time trying to figure out how they feel about each other.
The book is full of thrilling and suspenseful moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat, I couldn't put the book down.
April 2, 2017
This is a 5 star SUPER hot read! This is the first book in the series that I’ve read and it’s definitely able to be read as a stand-alone.
Ryder has been security for a senator for years while building up his own security company. When it comes to protecting this senator he handles the work personally because of Hadley, the senators daughter he’s had feelings for forever. The attraction between Hadley and Ryder is mutual however, Ryder will not let anything happen for fear of it coming between his protecting the family. That doesn’t stop Hadley from trying to get Ryder’s attention though and when someone comes after Hadley to get to the senator Ryder steps in and will do whatever it takes to protect Hadley… even if that requires making her his!
The need to know what happens next kept me up far past my bedtime finishing this one, I just couldn’t put it down. I love the way that the storyline flows, it has humor, suspense and a TON of steam. I enjoyed every page and can’t wait to see what Stacey Kennedy releases next!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Ryder has been security for a senator for years while building up his own security company. When it comes to protecting this senator he handles the work personally because of Hadley, the senators daughter he’s had feelings for forever. The attraction between Hadley and Ryder is mutual however, Ryder will not let anything happen for fear of it coming between his protecting the family. That doesn’t stop Hadley from trying to get Ryder’s attention though and when someone comes after Hadley to get to the senator Ryder steps in and will do whatever it takes to protect Hadley… even if that requires making her his!
The need to know what happens next kept me up far past my bedtime finishing this one, I just couldn’t put it down. I love the way that the storyline flows, it has humor, suspense and a TON of steam. I enjoyed every page and can’t wait to see what Stacey Kennedy releases next!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 29, 2017
Restrained Under His Duty is the third book in the Dirty Little Secrets series. It is by far my favorite in the series. Stacey Kennedy is one of my go to authors. She writes sexy stories with alpha males and strong heroines. This story has both. There’s also plenty of intrigue, suspense and heated moments.
Ryder Blackwood, sex club owner, Dominants’ Counsel member is the chief of security for Senator Gary Winters. Hadley Winters, daughter of Senator Gary Winters, has been interested in Ryder since she was a little girl. When he rejects her yet again she lets loose. Now Hadley Winters needs Ryder’s help with finding her blackmailer but can Ryder keep his feeling in check in order to keep her and her father safe?
This book! The suspense kept me on edge. The characters flaws gave them depth. Plus, there’s finally a breakthrough in the ongoing storyline that has plagued the Dominants’ Counsel. I can’t wait for the next book. 5 Stars!
April 8, 2017
Interesting plot and twists.
This book kept you guessing throughout who could it be and what they could want. It seemed kinda lame why it all came about, but I guess when one wants power and money they will do anything.
Hadley was ok. I know woman should be free to have sex with whomever they want just like men, but she drove for the cliff and went off it. Sex with two complete strangers? That is just a tad out there for me. At least there was no really "judging" of her.
Ryder was hot and sexy. Again a hero with honor on his brain, he took things in stride and was a total bad ass when the action came up.
The end was a twist and the person responsible for the bugs and pictures was revealed! Can't wait to see how the last book will play out. Gabe is not a happy camper.
Good read. Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
This book kept you guessing throughout who could it be and what they could want. It seemed kinda lame why it all came about, but I guess when one wants power and money they will do anything.
Hadley was ok. I know woman should be free to have sex with whomever they want just like men, but she drove for the cliff and went off it. Sex with two complete strangers? That is just a tad out there for me. At least there was no really "judging" of her.
Ryder was hot and sexy. Again a hero with honor on his brain, he took things in stride and was a total bad ass when the action came up.
The end was a twist and the person responsible for the bugs and pictures was revealed! Can't wait to see how the last book will play out. Gabe is not a happy camper.
Good read. Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
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