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In Safe Hands #2
Dare
Ayda
I hear him.
His deep voice and rumbling laugh. The bang of the headboard slamming the wall and fake screams from yet another woman. Derek is a pile of muscle and ink, a bad boy fantasy only a few layers of wood and plaster away. It’s all I expect or want him to be.
Until that irresistible voice begins talking to me.
Dare
I hear her.
The clicking of her fingers on a keyboard, her music or TV playing in the background. Her musical laugh and soft cries of pleasure, accompanied by a low, steady buzz. Ayda is a good girl who keeps to herself, and I have no business pursuing her, but I’m not a man known for doing the right thing.
I’m an ex-con. I’m a criminal.
And I want her.
This is book two in the In Safe Hands Series and can be read as a standalone.
Please disregard page number count during pre-order period. This will be a full length 60,000+ word novel.
I hear him.
His deep voice and rumbling laugh. The bang of the headboard slamming the wall and fake screams from yet another woman. Derek is a pile of muscle and ink, a bad boy fantasy only a few layers of wood and plaster away. It’s all I expect or want him to be.
Until that irresistible voice begins talking to me.
Dare
I hear her.
The clicking of her fingers on a keyboard, her music or TV playing in the background. Her musical laugh and soft cries of pleasure, accompanied by a low, steady buzz. Ayda is a good girl who keeps to herself, and I have no business pursuing her, but I’m not a man known for doing the right thing.
I’m an ex-con. I’m a criminal.
And I want her.
This is book two in the In Safe Hands Series and can be read as a standalone.
Please disregard page number count during pre-order period. This will be a full length 60,000+ word novel.
181 pages, ebook
First published October 21, 2016
385 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Shade
42 books1,668 followersS.M. Shade writes spicy romantic comedies and steamy contemporary romances with relatable characters. Whether it's a good laugh or a good cry, she likes to grab you by your emotions and make you feel.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
October 27, 2016
I was really excited to start Dare as the premise seemed sexy and exciting - the bad boy neighbor next door and the wounded, good girl who brought him to his knees.
I really liked the sexy banter between both Dare and Ayda and how it began between the walls of their apartment. I also really connected with the need of both of the characters to look out for their friends and loved ones.
I did have some issues with the story, though. Dare's level of commitment and his feelings for Ayda seemed to come out of left-field. While Ayda remained guarded, due to her past experiences, Dare - on the other hand - seemed to act out of character. Based on his behavior prior to meeting Ayda, the way his feelings developed and intensified so quickly did not seem very believable.
Furthermore, the level of obsession the villain had for Ayda also seemed like it came out of nowhere. There were no clues giving that it was building to this - it was almost blindsiding in a way that I really didn’t connect with.
All in all this was an enjoyable read. While this story is a standalone, it is the second book in the series so it was great seeing the other characters in the series without feeling lost. ~ Ratula, 3 stars
I really liked the sexy banter between both Dare and Ayda and how it began between the walls of their apartment. I also really connected with the need of both of the characters to look out for their friends and loved ones.
I did have some issues with the story, though. Dare's level of commitment and his feelings for Ayda seemed to come out of left-field. While Ayda remained guarded, due to her past experiences, Dare - on the other hand - seemed to act out of character. Based on his behavior prior to meeting Ayda, the way his feelings developed and intensified so quickly did not seem very believable.
Furthermore, the level of obsession the villain had for Ayda also seemed like it came out of nowhere. There were no clues giving that it was building to this - it was almost blindsiding in a way that I really didn’t connect with.
All in all this was an enjoyable read. While this story is a standalone, it is the second book in the series so it was great seeing the other characters in the series without feeling lost. ~ Ratula, 3 stars
December 7, 2016
La principal razón por la que leí Dare, es que su protagonista es un Hacker, y tengo una obsesión poco saludable por todo lo relativo con los hackers. Estoy trabajando para superar mi fascinación por el tema (es mentira).
De todas maneras, la historia de Dare y Ayda es cualquier cosa menos convencional. Por un lado, tienes a Ayda, una mujer que ha pasado por más dramas de lo que pueda ser creíble. Todo ello la ha llevado a una vida de aislamiento, en la que sólo existe su trabajo y su amor por el baile.
Por el otro lado, está Dare. Estuvo preso tres años, por golpear a su tío que abusó sexualmente de su hermana (no es spoiler, porque lo dicen en el prólogo). Trabaja en una organización, In Safe Hands, en la que utiliza sus habilidades para sacar de circulación a depravados sexuales. Todo muy ilegal, por cierto. De hecho, una parte muy grande de mí es escéptica sobre cómo puede ser útil su organización, porque la policía no puede usar la información que no ha sido obtenida por medios legítimos (aquí sale todo mi lado de alumna de derecho de tercer año).
Como sea, Ayda y Dare son vecinos. Escuchan literalmente todo el uno del otro, porque aparentemente la constructora ocupó cortinas en lugar de paredes. Tienen conversaciones sobre The Walking Dead y otras cosas así de intrascendentes, a través de la pared. Muy normal eso.
En fin. Es un libro corto, pero la autora logra perfilar bien el romance entre estos dos. Tiene su buena dosis de drama, que de repente le quita credibilidad. Es entretenido, y mantiene la atención del lector.
De todas maneras, la historia de Dare y Ayda es cualquier cosa menos convencional. Por un lado, tienes a Ayda, una mujer que ha pasado por más dramas de lo que pueda ser creíble. Todo ello la ha llevado a una vida de aislamiento, en la que sólo existe su trabajo y su amor por el baile.
Por el otro lado, está Dare. Estuvo preso tres años, por golpear a su tío que abusó sexualmente de su hermana (no es spoiler, porque lo dicen en el prólogo). Trabaja en una organización, In Safe Hands, en la que utiliza sus habilidades para sacar de circulación a depravados sexuales. Todo muy ilegal, por cierto. De hecho, una parte muy grande de mí es escéptica sobre cómo puede ser útil su organización, porque la policía no puede usar la información que no ha sido obtenida por medios legítimos (aquí sale todo mi lado de alumna de derecho de tercer año).
Como sea, Ayda y Dare son vecinos. Escuchan literalmente todo el uno del otro, porque aparentemente la constructora ocupó cortinas en lugar de paredes. Tienen conversaciones sobre The Walking Dead y otras cosas así de intrascendentes, a través de la pared. Muy normal eso.
En fin. Es un libro corto, pero la autora logra perfilar bien el romance entre estos dos. Tiene su buena dosis de drama, que de repente le quita credibilidad. Es entretenido, y mantiene la atención del lector.
October 9, 2016
Well SHIT !!!!!!!
I am completely in love with this book.
This book has me feeling stabby from page fucking two as the men of the ISH (In Safe Hands) organisation deal with some criminals in their own way.
The men of the In Safe Hands series are hot as fuck and this story will have you chest tight and Dare holy crap, the man is so criminally sexy he should be illegal !!! I actually had to stop reading and take a god damn shower I was completely hot and bothered. Dare is a hot alpha male and such a fucking sweetheart at the same time.
The banter back and forth between Ayda as they talked to each between the walls of their shared apartment is so damn cute and will make you excited to see what will happen when they meet face to face. This story is about seeing the beauty that is skin deep so heartwarming and will make your heart flutter. There is some drama of course along the way and you will be shouting out loud at certain points in this book.
Another fantastic read in this series and I need more of these books. I can't wait for the rest.
I am completely in love with this book.
This book has me feeling stabby from page fucking two as the men of the ISH (In Safe Hands) organisation deal with some criminals in their own way.
The men of the In Safe Hands series are hot as fuck and this story will have you chest tight and Dare holy crap, the man is so criminally sexy he should be illegal !!! I actually had to stop reading and take a god damn shower I was completely hot and bothered. Dare is a hot alpha male and such a fucking sweetheart at the same time.
The banter back and forth between Ayda as they talked to each between the walls of their shared apartment is so damn cute and will make you excited to see what will happen when they meet face to face. This story is about seeing the beauty that is skin deep so heartwarming and will make your heart flutter. There is some drama of course along the way and you will be shouting out loud at certain points in this book.
Another fantastic read in this series and I need more of these books. I can't wait for the rest.
October 21, 2016
Dare is the second book in the ISH series. Although this could be read as a standalone, I'd recommend reading book #1 (Landon) first.
This series is also connected to the Striking Back series, which is also definitely worth reading.
I really enjoyed this book. Dare is a great character and the traits that we love in him, run through the other male characters in this series. They're strong, loyal and protective with definite alpha qualities.
Ayda is a great character too. Having had the course of her life altered, she's content but doesn't really know what she's missing until it comes calling.
There are more than a few twists and turns in this book, that'll be sure to keep you hook, and more than one character you'll love to loath.
It's well written and the sub-characters are intriguing too. I'm dying to find out just what Justus' story is and I look forward to more in this series.
This series is also connected to the Striking Back series, which is also definitely worth reading.
I really enjoyed this book. Dare is a great character and the traits that we love in him, run through the other male characters in this series. They're strong, loyal and protective with definite alpha qualities.
Ayda is a great character too. Having had the course of her life altered, she's content but doesn't really know what she's missing until it comes calling.
There are more than a few twists and turns in this book, that'll be sure to keep you hook, and more than one character you'll love to loath.
It's well written and the sub-characters are intriguing too. I'm dying to find out just what Justus' story is and I look forward to more in this series.
December 11, 2019
“Great. Nice to meet you. Going back to my show now that the porn sounds have stopped.”
“Jealousy is such an ugly emotion.”
Ugh! This man is so frustrating! “Go fuck yourself.”
“That’s your department, sweetheart. Your vibrator isn’t as quiet as you think it is.” Damn it. I never even thought about that. What kind of jerk points that out? “No reply to that one?” he asks, and I refuse to answer.
Part of me wants to go over there, strip naked and ride him like a two humped camel out of Egypt
His lips take mine, his hands cupping my cheeks, and he angles my face just right before slipping his tongue between my lips. His kiss is anything but gentle, and my hands fist in his hair as I give him back everything he’s giving me.
His eyes are heated when we break apart. “You’re mine and I’ll trample anyone who gets in my way, including you. Understand?”
August 6, 2022
A 4.5 Star Read.🌟
(Read Using Kindle Unlimited)
Dare (In Safe Hands #2)
This was so much fun, mixed in with the serious!🙏😍 I loved how this friendship started, talking through the walls, moving onto the voyeurism via sound, it was hot!🔥 Each of them had such damage from past trauma, hers was just more visible!😢 I'm loving this series.🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
(Read Using Kindle Unlimited)
Dare (In Safe Hands #2)
This was so much fun, mixed in with the serious!🙏😍 I loved how this friendship started, talking through the walls, moving onto the voyeurism via sound, it was hot!🔥 Each of them had such damage from past trauma, hers was just more visible!😢 I'm loving this series.🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
June 27, 2018
Dare's character was one that i found myself falling in love with. Ayda is someone that you just cant help but feel for. there are funny moments between these two that just adds to their chemistry. the supporting characters are ones that add to the dynamic. i hated for this one to end, but, i know they will return in the others in this series.
November 4, 2023
Every one of us has thoughts of vigilantes taking out the bad guys on the down low. This book was no exception. I loved the plot and the final plot twist for the happy ending.
November 5, 2023
Woman Dehumaniser
Ever read stories hoping the "playboy" learns that its utter narcissism to dehumanise women like he does throughout the book?
And then inevitably be disappointed when his "growth" moment is entirely related to personal exceptionalism, which makes the risk so so easy?
I want to see a guy who doesn't justify "they filled a gap" when he would have been habitualised into not having sex but sure, ok, make up an excuse for how he treated other human beings like Polyfil.
And he's still dehumanising women by the end of the book.
As a victim of these kinds of things, the justice process is horrible and the healing process even worse, compounded by men like Dare "protecting" instead of supporting.
Ever read stories hoping the "playboy" learns that its utter narcissism to dehumanise women like he does throughout the book?
And then inevitably be disappointed when his "growth" moment is entirely related to personal exceptionalism, which makes the risk so so easy?
I want to see a guy who doesn't justify "they filled a gap" when he would have been habitualised into not having sex but sure, ok, make up an excuse for how he treated other human beings like Polyfil.
And he's still dehumanising women by the end of the book.
As a victim of these kinds of things, the justice process is horrible and the healing process even worse, compounded by men like Dare "protecting" instead of supporting.
October 23, 2016
Sometimes stalking the blog page for new to me authors pays off!!
I grabbed DARE by S.M. Shade after I posted it on Friday, and I devoured in a day. Don't you love when that happens?!!!
Where to start. This is my first book by SM and it was fantastic!
We meet Derrick AKA DARE, ex-con, criminal with a heart of gold. Before you go all batty and say "are you crazy?", seriously, he is like a walking, talking contradiction. And so extremely delicious.
Ayda is hiding from the world. With a horrific incident behind her, she doesn't know how to move forward.
Dare and Ayda are neighbors and share a wall where she hears everything... all his sexcapades, wall banging, uh yeah all that!
They begin to "hang out" and get to know each other.
A relationship develops, but with their pasts and his career, can there really be a future?!
The chemistry between these two was off the charts. I loved these characters hard and I especially loved watching Ayda grow and spread her wings.
With lots of twists and turns, I couldn't put it down.
The secondary characters blended so well and I can't wait for Justus's story.
I grabbed DARE by S.M. Shade after I posted it on Friday, and I devoured in a day. Don't you love when that happens?!!!
Where to start. This is my first book by SM and it was fantastic!
We meet Derrick AKA DARE, ex-con, criminal with a heart of gold. Before you go all batty and say "are you crazy?", seriously, he is like a walking, talking contradiction. And so extremely delicious.
Ayda is hiding from the world. With a horrific incident behind her, she doesn't know how to move forward.
Dare and Ayda are neighbors and share a wall where she hears everything... all his sexcapades, wall banging, uh yeah all that!
They begin to "hang out" and get to know each other.
A relationship develops, but with their pasts and his career, can there really be a future?!
The chemistry between these two was off the charts. I loved these characters hard and I especially loved watching Ayda grow and spread her wings.
With lots of twists and turns, I couldn't put it down.
The secondary characters blended so well and I can't wait for Justus's story.
November 21, 2016
Dare is the second standalone in the In Safe Hands series by S.M. Shade and is my current favorite of the series. Dare and Ayda are strangers and neighbors. They share a wall in an apartment complex and can easily hear each other through the wall causing for some fun yet tense moments. These are my favorite moments early on in the book.
‘This woman has me by the balls, and worse, I have no desire to escape.’
Ayda has been through hell and it has turned her into a recluse who lets no one near her. Dare is determined to break down her walls and bring her into the light. I loved this story line. I found them to be sweet while still sexy. I swooned over Dare and the force at which he pursues Ayda.
The one thing I will say is that the first few chapters of the story felt very rushed to me but once I got into the meat of the story I was not only hooked but eager for more. I loved Dare and his complete love and acceptance for Ayda. Dare was a quick, excited and enjoyable read that I would recommend to any alpha male lover.
~miranda
‘This woman has me by the balls, and worse, I have no desire to escape.’
Ayda has been through hell and it has turned her into a recluse who lets no one near her. Dare is determined to break down her walls and bring her into the light. I loved this story line. I found them to be sweet while still sexy. I swooned over Dare and the force at which he pursues Ayda.
The one thing I will say is that the first few chapters of the story felt very rushed to me but once I got into the meat of the story I was not only hooked but eager for more. I loved Dare and his complete love and acceptance for Ayda. Dare was a quick, excited and enjoyable read that I would recommend to any alpha male lover.
~miranda
July 27, 2017
Book 2!!
I'm loving how each couple have something unique about them!
Up now is Dare!
After being in Prison for 3 years Dare came out and started work with In Safe Hands with his friends. He looks after his sister who's now gone off to college and lives in an apartment by himself conducting most of ISH business from there. He definitely lives the single life with an endless stream of one night stands passing through. Because of his job he doesn't do relationships.
Ayda pretty much isolates herself. She has one friend and lives a solitary life on her own in her apartment. The only thing she really goes out for is to dance. She does this after hours so no one sees her. She feels content with her life having accepted that this is how it will always be.
Dare and Ayda hear each others lives through the adjoining apartment wall. Dare starts talking to her. Although not wanting to Ayda talks back. They start a friendship through the wall and they go from here.
This series is so easy to read I'm getting through them like a box of chocolates = Devoured!!
My heart went out to Ayda. That poor girl has been through so much already and when her past catches up once again I'm so happy she had Dare to look out for her. She deserves so much happiness that when she got it i was close to tears for her.
Even though on paper Dare is a bad boy ex-con you should absolutely stay away from, i still fell in love him. He was so perfect for Ayda. Strong and protective but also soft, kind and loving. He had some alpha bossing about to do with Ayda to bring her out of herself but it was definitely worth it!
There were some hot sexy times throughout, ooooooohhh i love when the male lead is built like a brick ****house is makes for some smoking scenes!
Once again there's a darker theme underneath which i absolutely love. The writing is captivating and easily understood. You can pick one of these up and start reading and before you know it the end is in sight and half the day has gone.
Its fab getting to know all the other characters along the way to and i'm really looking forward to Justus the once who's never serious up next.
Highly recommend this series fab, fun and sometimes a touch of dark reads.
I'm loving how each couple have something unique about them!
Up now is Dare!
After being in Prison for 3 years Dare came out and started work with In Safe Hands with his friends. He looks after his sister who's now gone off to college and lives in an apartment by himself conducting most of ISH business from there. He definitely lives the single life with an endless stream of one night stands passing through. Because of his job he doesn't do relationships.
Ayda pretty much isolates herself. She has one friend and lives a solitary life on her own in her apartment. The only thing she really goes out for is to dance. She does this after hours so no one sees her. She feels content with her life having accepted that this is how it will always be.
Dare and Ayda hear each others lives through the adjoining apartment wall. Dare starts talking to her. Although not wanting to Ayda talks back. They start a friendship through the wall and they go from here.
This series is so easy to read I'm getting through them like a box of chocolates = Devoured!!
My heart went out to Ayda. That poor girl has been through so much already and when her past catches up once again I'm so happy she had Dare to look out for her. She deserves so much happiness that when she got it i was close to tears for her.
Even though on paper Dare is a bad boy ex-con you should absolutely stay away from, i still fell in love him. He was so perfect for Ayda. Strong and protective but also soft, kind and loving. He had some alpha bossing about to do with Ayda to bring her out of herself but it was definitely worth it!
There were some hot sexy times throughout, ooooooohhh i love when the male lead is built like a brick ****house is makes for some smoking scenes!
Once again there's a darker theme underneath which i absolutely love. The writing is captivating and easily understood. You can pick one of these up and start reading and before you know it the end is in sight and half the day has gone.
Its fab getting to know all the other characters along the way to and i'm really looking forward to Justus the once who's never serious up next.
Highly recommend this series fab, fun and sometimes a touch of dark reads.
July 14, 2022
Another S.M. Shade Top Read
The In Safe Hands series is completely different than what I am used to from S.M. Shade. I came into this series late, after I’ve read the Slumming It Series, Yama Yama & Violent Circle, all of which have a ton of humor and make me laugh out loud on so many occasions, I’ve lost count! I’ve also read, and LOVED, The Dark of You, which I think is more on the level of the In Safe Hands series. Having said all of that, I really like this series so far!
Dare is a continuation on Landon. Obviously, since it’s book 2 in the series. But, it’s also a totally different story that went in a completely different direction than I expected, which I loved! The fact that Dare fell for Ayda through the wall just made this story all the more special. And Ayda had all this self doubt (understandably) and never truly believed that she could ever be loved. Man, I love Dare. I just love a man who can see past the surface. And he just wouldn’t give up! Though, to be totally honest, he is a tad scary. And I’m not sure if that made him more attractive or less… (what is wrong with me?!?!)
Obviously, the theme of ISH is still there. They’re going after the bad guys, and I love that. But I love that this story focuses on going after Ayda’s bad guys. Because those jerks deserve so much more than the worst thing than I could ever imagine! And I cannot even tell you how much I love that there wasn’t even a moment of hesitation on anyone in ISH when Dare was like “time to hunt these guys down”. My kinda guys!
So anyway, I’m off to start Justus now. So I’ll let you know how that story is when I’ve finished with him. If you haven’t started the In Safe Hands series, I do recommend it. It doesn’t have the slap your knee, laugh out loud humor that S.M. Shade can deliver, but it does have a great story in each book that I’ve read so far, with some of these shmexy times we all know she’s so good at. I really like this series so far, and definitely think it’s worth the read!
The In Safe Hands series is completely different than what I am used to from S.M. Shade. I came into this series late, after I’ve read the Slumming It Series, Yama Yama & Violent Circle, all of which have a ton of humor and make me laugh out loud on so many occasions, I’ve lost count! I’ve also read, and LOVED, The Dark of You, which I think is more on the level of the In Safe Hands series. Having said all of that, I really like this series so far!
Dare is a continuation on Landon. Obviously, since it’s book 2 in the series. But, it’s also a totally different story that went in a completely different direction than I expected, which I loved! The fact that Dare fell for Ayda through the wall just made this story all the more special. And Ayda had all this self doubt (understandably) and never truly believed that she could ever be loved. Man, I love Dare. I just love a man who can see past the surface. And he just wouldn’t give up! Though, to be totally honest, he is a tad scary. And I’m not sure if that made him more attractive or less… (what is wrong with me?!?!)
Obviously, the theme of ISH is still there. They’re going after the bad guys, and I love that. But I love that this story focuses on going after Ayda’s bad guys. Because those jerks deserve so much more than the worst thing than I could ever imagine! And I cannot even tell you how much I love that there wasn’t even a moment of hesitation on anyone in ISH when Dare was like “time to hunt these guys down”. My kinda guys!
So anyway, I’m off to start Justus now. So I’ll let you know how that story is when I’ve finished with him. If you haven’t started the In Safe Hands series, I do recommend it. It doesn’t have the slap your knee, laugh out loud humor that S.M. Shade can deliver, but it does have a great story in each book that I’ve read so far, with some of these shmexy times we all know she’s so good at. I really like this series so far, and definitely think it’s worth the read!
December 11, 2023
Ayda and Dare’s romantic relationship beginning was an interesting one. It was enjoyable at first due to Dare’s flirty approach and Ayda’s annoyed reactions and their conversations showed their opposites attract nature well. It also had some originality to it as they were communicating through walls and it made the beginning of the book more fun. Their connection and relationship developed quickly, so this book was a little to insta love for my taste, but it was likeable and I was invested in seeing how the book ended.
There were a few prominent triggers in this book but they were mainly spoken about in retrospect and/or at times in a broad sense with minimal details, with a few instances of them only being alluded too. So In my opinion, whilst they feature heavily in the book it’s not in a heavy way which makes this a dark book it is instead a book with some dark themes and if triggers are something you need to pay attention to then you may be okay with some of the ones featured in the book.
Dare made for a likeable quick read due to the main character’s connection and the fast pace. It was an okay book for me and I’ll keep the rest of the series in mind but I’m not sure if I’ll come back to it.
There were a few prominent triggers in this book but they were mainly spoken about in retrospect and/or at times in a broad sense with minimal details, with a few instances of them only being alluded too. So In my opinion, whilst they feature heavily in the book it’s not in a heavy way which makes this a dark book it is instead a book with some dark themes and if triggers are something you need to pay attention to then you may be okay with some of the ones featured in the book.
Dare made for a likeable quick read due to the main character’s connection and the fast pace. It was an okay book for me and I’ll keep the rest of the series in mind but I’m not sure if I’ll come back to it.
September 6, 2024
Dare to Love
Another great beat up the bad guys and a win for the victims in this story about a young woman who was a promising ballerina that had her future stolen from her by two people who had different idea about her future. And it was years later when she was living in an apartment that she met this guy through paper thin walls and began talking with him about their favorite tv shows and movies that got him interested in her. However she never wanted to meet him in person because of her scared face and body. Well that’s all I’m going to say about this story and you’ll have to read it for yourself. It goes into so much detail about her story and how it happened, then how she copied. So much more importantly what goes on between them.
There’s so much more to the story about ISH too and the other characters that ties things in a great way that really makes sense because it’s another viewpoint from Dare perspective which is really important and it introduces a new character that is vital for the storyline.
It’s a great book and I recommend reading the book if you love the series you should read this book.
Another great beat up the bad guys and a win for the victims in this story about a young woman who was a promising ballerina that had her future stolen from her by two people who had different idea about her future. And it was years later when she was living in an apartment that she met this guy through paper thin walls and began talking with him about their favorite tv shows and movies that got him interested in her. However she never wanted to meet him in person because of her scared face and body. Well that’s all I’m going to say about this story and you’ll have to read it for yourself. It goes into so much detail about her story and how it happened, then how she copied. So much more importantly what goes on between them.
There’s so much more to the story about ISH too and the other characters that ties things in a great way that really makes sense because it’s another viewpoint from Dare perspective which is really important and it introduces a new character that is vital for the storyline.
It’s a great book and I recommend reading the book if you love the series you should read this book.
November 11, 2023
Dare to Live
Scarred and stepped on most of her life without any support from her mother and stepfather, who simply kept ties to sponge off of her. Ayda, like a butterfly from a chrysalis, gradually emerges from her shell once she begins talking with Dare.
Dare has always been a strong, hard worker at catching the predators who live on the dark web, and those who simply hide in the shadows. He's fiercely protective of those he cares deeply about. He's been living life going through the motions until his friend Landon finds love, then he begins to question himself.
The two of these people have had tough roads in their past, but once the ice is broken thanks to a thin apartment wall, they both begin to reach for what they want and burn up the pages while doing it.
I received the first book, Landon, as a book club free download but have been hooked and had to purchase the rest of the series. This installation made me laugh, made me cry, and made me have to reach for a fan.
Scarred and stepped on most of her life without any support from her mother and stepfather, who simply kept ties to sponge off of her. Ayda, like a butterfly from a chrysalis, gradually emerges from her shell once she begins talking with Dare.
Dare has always been a strong, hard worker at catching the predators who live on the dark web, and those who simply hide in the shadows. He's fiercely protective of those he cares deeply about. He's been living life going through the motions until his friend Landon finds love, then he begins to question himself.
The two of these people have had tough roads in their past, but once the ice is broken thanks to a thin apartment wall, they both begin to reach for what they want and burn up the pages while doing it.
I received the first book, Landon, as a book club free download but have been hooked and had to purchase the rest of the series. This installation made me laugh, made me cry, and made me have to reach for a fan.
April 13, 2018
Omg I’m loving the ISH guys!
They have me swooning every which way and i can’t get enough!
This story brings us Dare and Ayda.
I love that the start of an amazing relationship is through a wall.
They can hear everything the other is doing and this starts the development of sexy banter between the two through the wall!
I love Dare and how he finally decides enough is enough and takes finally meeting her in his own hands.
Ayda is reluctant to officially meet Dare because her body bares the damages of a tragic incident that she feels will turn him away.
Bring in holy hotness of an Alpha and melting words to save the day!!!
Their relationship is dampened when her past comes back to bite her in the butt, but Dare makes sure they get what’s coming...
Their chemistry is fantastic once again this author knows how to make characters sizzle!!!
Loved this story!
Onto Justus and Sadie.... ooo it’s going to be so good!
They have me swooning every which way and i can’t get enough!
This story brings us Dare and Ayda.
I love that the start of an amazing relationship is through a wall.
They can hear everything the other is doing and this starts the development of sexy banter between the two through the wall!
I love Dare and how he finally decides enough is enough and takes finally meeting her in his own hands.
Ayda is reluctant to officially meet Dare because her body bares the damages of a tragic incident that she feels will turn him away.
Bring in holy hotness of an Alpha and melting words to save the day!!!
Their relationship is dampened when her past comes back to bite her in the butt, but Dare makes sure they get what’s coming...
Their chemistry is fantastic once again this author knows how to make characters sizzle!!!
Loved this story!
Onto Justus and Sadie.... ooo it’s going to be so good!
June 14, 2018
LOVING This Series!!
One of the many things Iove about this series is that the men don't sound as if they're written by a woman. Ever notice in some books the hero sounds so girly, so overly mushy? I hate that. But Dare and Landon and Justus and the rest of the guys talk like dudes. I even occasionally cringe at their crudeness, but that's part of what rings so true about them.
Dare is a terrific hero. Love how, once he truly cares about Ayda, he's all in. Even when the thing standing in the way of their happy ever after is her, he bulldozes through all the obstacles in his usual charming way.
Ayda displays that magical balance between strong and delicate that makes for a multifaceted character and a compelling story. I'm looking forward to updates on her in subsequent books in the series. I think she's going to continue to surprise me.
The Tucker story line is a terrific subplot too. And all the bonus points for the random Friends reference.
One of the many things Iove about this series is that the men don't sound as if they're written by a woman. Ever notice in some books the hero sounds so girly, so overly mushy? I hate that. But Dare and Landon and Justus and the rest of the guys talk like dudes. I even occasionally cringe at their crudeness, but that's part of what rings so true about them.
Dare is a terrific hero. Love how, once he truly cares about Ayda, he's all in. Even when the thing standing in the way of their happy ever after is her, he bulldozes through all the obstacles in his usual charming way.
Ayda displays that magical balance between strong and delicate that makes for a multifaceted character and a compelling story. I'm looking forward to updates on her in subsequent books in the series. I think she's going to continue to surprise me.
The Tucker story line is a terrific subplot too. And all the bonus points for the random Friends reference.
October 23, 2016
I loved this book. How Dare and Ayda met was so simple but funny. Who really thinks of their neighbors like that. With them being able to hear everything you do. I feel for Ayda. She had a difficult life. Tragedy usually tears a person down, not only physically but mentally as well. Although she continued to live, she wasn't really living. Just going thru the motions. Until Dare started chiseling through her walls.
Punished for standing up for what's right, Dare turned his anger for good. Taking care of those who couldn't do so themselves. But life was missing something. A lippy beauty that hides in the shadows helps betting light into his life. But the road to happiness is never easy. There is always those who thrive in bringing you down. But revenge has a way of visiting those who think they are untouchable.
Loved. Loved this book!! I do hope that Justus will get a book next!!
Punished for standing up for what's right, Dare turned his anger for good. Taking care of those who couldn't do so themselves. But life was missing something. A lippy beauty that hides in the shadows helps betting light into his life. But the road to happiness is never easy. There is always those who thrive in bringing you down. But revenge has a way of visiting those who think they are untouchable.
Loved. Loved this book!! I do hope that Justus will get a book next!!
July 13, 2022
Book 2 of the In Safe Hands series is almost better than the first. Dare is not only on of Landon's best friends, he's a hero. Sent to prison for assaulting his sister's molester, he dedicates his life to protecting others from predators. Protective of his sister, his friends and most of all his heart, Dare avoids attachments. It is safe for him. Until he see's her.
Ayda is a reclusive woman haunted by the events of her past. Former dancer, victim of violence, she retreats to her safe apartment to avoid living. Until she cannot avoid the allure of her next door neighbor.
These two made my heart happy and hurt over again. This is an angsty story with some difficult topics and some violence (be warned). I loved the push and pull between these character's hearts and their heads. Great story.
Ayda is a reclusive woman haunted by the events of her past. Former dancer, victim of violence, she retreats to her safe apartment to avoid living. Until she cannot avoid the allure of her next door neighbor.
These two made my heart happy and hurt over again. This is an angsty story with some difficult topics and some violence (be warned). I loved the push and pull between these character's hearts and their heads. Great story.
November 9, 2023
This was a freebie I picked up along the way somewhere, and I finally picked it up... this was a pretty enjoyable read. I had a lot of elements I loved. I was very pleasantly surprised.
✅️Scarred heroine
✅️OTT possessiveness "mine mine mine"
✅️close proximity (neighbours)
✅️big size difference
✅️ex-con vigilante
✅️heroine is a good cook, I dont know why I love this, but I do.
✅️heroine is a dancer, ex ballerina.
✅️some delicious spice.
❌️no ow drama (he does sleep with someone in the first chapter before he knows our heroine. The situation is actually quite funny)
This is a new author for me, the tempo was sliiighty more fast-paced than I would have prefered with little time jumps happening, it was fine but I do really love being on the journey with them rather than having some of it skimmed over having said that I would definitely read more from this author. 👌🏼
✅️Scarred heroine
✅️OTT possessiveness "mine mine mine"
✅️close proximity (neighbours)
✅️big size difference
✅️ex-con vigilante
✅️heroine is a good cook, I dont know why I love this, but I do.
✅️heroine is a dancer, ex ballerina.
✅️some delicious spice.
❌️no ow drama (he does sleep with someone in the first chapter before he knows our heroine. The situation is actually quite funny)
This is a new author for me, the tempo was sliiighty more fast-paced than I would have prefered with little time jumps happening, it was fine but I do really love being on the journey with them rather than having some of it skimmed over having said that I would definitely read more from this author. 👌🏼
February 24, 2017
Wow oh wow
This book is amazing I loved it, I didn't want too put it down I read in in a few hours,
I love ayda name it is beautiful, to go with a beautiful lady how she got though an acid attract that left her badly scared and not wanting to be around may people to ending up with dare and being unconditionally loved by him.
Dare is amzing the way he looks out for ayda and not letting Amy one hurt her again and when the guy who attached came to hurt ayda again he was there to look after her and beat him up.
Such a romatic book full lots of love from dare
Thanks for amazing story can't wait to read more from you in the future
This book is amazing I loved it, I didn't want too put it down I read in in a few hours,
I love ayda name it is beautiful, to go with a beautiful lady how she got though an acid attract that left her badly scared and not wanting to be around may people to ending up with dare and being unconditionally loved by him.
Dare is amzing the way he looks out for ayda and not letting Amy one hurt her again and when the guy who attached came to hurt ayda again he was there to look after her and beat him up.
Such a romatic book full lots of love from dare
Thanks for amazing story can't wait to read more from you in the future
July 9, 2017
Dare and Ayda ...such an unlikely couple !
Dare is quite the ladies man...he seems to never be at a loss for female companionship but no one has peaked his interest in a very long time ....until now.
Ayda is a homebody , quiet , keeps to herself and can hear everything her dirty neighbor Dare is doing through the bedroom wall. It may irritate her but is also makes her start to wonder what being with a man like that entails .
The two begin a crazy friendship through the wall that leads to so much more than they could have expected ! I loved watching each of them grow due to the being with one another.
Great story!!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Dare is quite the ladies man...he seems to never be at a loss for female companionship but no one has peaked his interest in a very long time ....until now.
Ayda is a homebody , quiet , keeps to herself and can hear everything her dirty neighbor Dare is doing through the bedroom wall. It may irritate her but is also makes her start to wonder what being with a man like that entails .
The two begin a crazy friendship through the wall that leads to so much more than they could have expected ! I loved watching each of them grow due to the being with one another.
Great story!!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
April 15, 2018
I love this book, Dare and Ayda’s Story. Ayla has been through hell and back, and doing fine on her own.. What she really needed was a hero, someone to come and get her through her past. Dare is the guy who stands up for the family and friends he loves, (and of course ISH). Dare finds himself needing to get to know Ayda, and when he finally gets to know her, he became the hero she always wanted. Their story is beautiful, full of hope, love and war. It’s a book I highly recommend! S.M.Shade is outdoing herself in this series.
March 25, 2021
Less problematic than the first one. I spent wayyyyy too much time trying to figure out how this fit into the timeline of the first one. I almost paid more attention to that than the plot, which by the way took forever to develop. Not Ayada and Dare, they semi flirted/hooked up and all that throughout. Mainly I expected some ISH stuff to happen.
Ayada's past drama plot popped so late, I barely realized it was THE plot. I guess without it though there's no conflict, and I guess I'd prefer it over some forced tension with Dare. Although there's a bit of that silliness to.
Ayada's past drama plot popped so late, I barely realized it was THE plot. I guess without it though there's no conflict, and I guess I'd prefer it over some forced tension with Dare. Although there's a bit of that silliness to.
October 28, 2023
Couldn’t put this down
Loved this story. Dare is an ex-con, but works to put bad guys way. He himself was sent to prison trying to protect his sister. Ayda was once a promising ballerina but it was taken away from her by a jealous fellow dancer and her sick boyfriend who threw acid on her. Dare decides that he his going to make a difference once he discovers the attacker has gotten away with many assaults on women with his fathers help. Will Dare be able to make things right or will their world come crashing down.
Loved this story. Dare is an ex-con, but works to put bad guys way. He himself was sent to prison trying to protect his sister. Ayda was once a promising ballerina but it was taken away from her by a jealous fellow dancer and her sick boyfriend who threw acid on her. Dare decides that he his going to make a difference once he discovers the attacker has gotten away with many assaults on women with his fathers help. Will Dare be able to make things right or will their world come crashing down.
October 23, 2016
Dare, Oh Dare!!! you got me.... I like everything about this story, so much passion, so much self courage to keep going and so much love!!! I can't complain about the writing of this author; she is my one click!!! So good written, but i want more of this because the chemistry of the characters are beyond amazing and I just want to keep reading and reading about all of the characters!! the meaning of this stories is what makes them original!!!
August 5, 2017
GAH
Tattoos, and muscles, and demands, OH MY!
So I loved Landon but HOLY POPSICLE ON A STICK DARE IS MY MAN!!!! I love love love times a billion this book and frankly I don't know how any other in the series will top it.
Growing up as a dancer I really converted with Ayda and really adore her sweet character. She makes such a good damn fit with Dare and the way they fall in love through that damn wall UGH SWOOOOOOON I CANT GET ENOUGH!! ❤️
Tattoos, and muscles, and demands, OH MY!
So I loved Landon but HOLY POPSICLE ON A STICK DARE IS MY MAN!!!! I love love love times a billion this book and frankly I don't know how any other in the series will top it.
Growing up as a dancer I really converted with Ayda and really adore her sweet character. She makes such a good damn fit with Dare and the way they fall in love through that damn wall UGH SWOOOOOOON I CANT GET ENOUGH!! ❤️
February 18, 2018
Yet another smartass romance that I couldn't put down from SM Shade. She is the queen of this for me. The characters in this book are amazing strong and adorable. Hot and muscled. Compassionate and a little overbearing. Just the way I like it. The plot line kept me interested and it was a nice smooth read. There's minor cross over from the Striking Back series and that makes me really happy. Great read in my opinion.
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