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Filthy Politics #2

Dirty Secret

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STANDALONE - ENEMIES TO LOVERS ROMANCE

Kennedy Barnes
Phoenix ‘Nix’ Ash
Hacker and Heartbreaker
Get Close and Survive

After living her life in the shadows as the daughter of a congressman’s secret affair, Kennedy Barnes joins ‘Project Greenlight’ – a clandestine intelligence organization. She’s out to prove she’s more than her father’s dirty secret.

One of her first assignments is simple. Get close to Phoenix Ash, collect enough evidence to put him away for life, and get out unscathed.

Phoenix Ash is a world renowned hacker. He’s pulled off some of the biggest heists in modern history, but never leaves a trace. He knows people are after him and that every day may be his last, but when he meets Kennedy Barnes everything changes.

Lines are blurred and secrets are exposed as Phoenix and Kennedy both discover they do have a weakness – for each other.

This is a STANDALONE novel, but is interconnected with Dirty Work, which is now available.

288 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 17, 2017

187 people are currently reading
2454 people want to read

About the author

Chelle Bliss

178 books8,933 followers
Chelle Bliss is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico, but hates sand. She's a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and loves everything romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
January 8, 2017
The bar was set pretty high when these two authors released DIRTY WORK. I absolutely LOVED Jude and Reagan's story! So when I finished DIRTY SECRET, sufficed to say that I was a tad bit let down because I didn't feel the same strong and passionate connection between Ash and Kennedy as I did with the previous two characters. That's not to say I didn't enjoy their story. Believe me, it was SEXY as hell, but the storyline went a little quick for me and I didn't feel the chemistry burn as bright as I wanted it to. I guess I expected more romance and it didn't quite happen here, but I wouldn't give up on these authors yet. If you love HOT sex scenes and suspenseful events, you will like DIRTY SECRET. If you are an emotional reader, like I am, you will want a little more depth and romance in your stories. All in all, a good read with HOT scenes, but lacking in the emotional pull department.

Unknown
Profile Image for Karen Mc .
1,105 reviews771 followers
February 7, 2017


You’re the predator right up until you’re the prey.

Sometimes you’re the predator. Sometimes you’re the prey. I was the prey to a blazing and brilliant book that grabbed me and never let go. I was the prey to Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert’s latest captivating collaboration. I was the prey to the delicious Dirty Secret. Alluring and adrenaline-charged, Dirty Secret is a roller coaster rush of a romance meets spy novel that burns the body, penetrates with passion, and leaves you melting for more.



Dirty Secret gripped me hard, holding me in its clutches, from the start. Mind racing. Feelings flowing. Heart beating out of my chest. Pulse pounding with each page. This story was the match and I was the flame. Dirty Secret lit a fire under me and made me feel ALIVE. I felt Dirty Secret race through me as I chased this high of a spy story spiked with romance to BOOK BLISS!

Kennedy Barnes with dark hair and dark eyes is the beautiful and brave youngest sister of Reagan Preston who we met in Dirty Work. A super-secret spy for ‘Project Greenlight,’ Kennedy’s assignment is to get close to one of the world’s top hackers, the panty-melting Phoenix ‘Nix’ Ash with dark hair, dark eyes and the body of a Greek god. She must nab Nix at his game. The only problem is, neither expected an inferno of an attraction to be so blinding.

"Nix is eyeing my like a hungry wolf that just found its next meal. And I’ve never felt so naked in my life.”


Kennedy focuses on work and has no time for men. Nix is just work, but the insta-chemistry feels like much more.

"Not all women want what you’re selling, Nix.”

“And what’s that?”

“A night of sex with the elusive Phoenix.”

“Elusive? I’m right here, Kennedy, close enough for you to reach out and touch.”


Oh my HOT! Nix touched me everywhere, his sorry mouth was on fire as was I! Kennedy tries to fight the burn that blazes through her body when Nix is near but it’s a losing battle.

"I’m playing with fire.”


Nix is fire and Kennedy is about to get burned.

"You wanted my attention, and now you’ve got it, but may regret trading in one devil for another.”


Nix navigates a fine line between devil and angel…criminal and savior…monster and man. Kennedy is a distraction Nix doesn’t need but a woman he must have…one he needs.

"Say it, Kennedy. Say what you want.”

“I want you.”

“My mouth takes without permission, demanding her compliance.”


I’M ON FIRE! The passion pounded from the pages! For once, Kennedy wants to throw caution to the wind and kiss this beautiful and bold man who is making her body blaze with heat and her heart beat.

"She’s the prey."

"I’m the predator."

"And I will devour her.”


Nix’s sweet and spicy words made me smolder and swoon. Kennedy doesn’t want to like the panty-melting hot playboy and criminal, but his dirty words bring out her inner wanton woman, whether she wants to admit that chemistry crashing through them or not. Kennedy has no choice to surrender to this passion that permeates between Nix and her, pouring off the pages where I felt this passion too.

OH DID I SURRENDER TO THIS SMOLDERING AND STIMULATING STORY TOO. HOOK…LINE…SINKER.

"A glass of good brandy should be savored one sip at a time. I want to savor you the same way…Most women are beer. But you…you’re like the finest Cognac I’ve ever tasted. I plan to sip very slowly.”


Kennedy is used to control in all things. Never has a man made her want to lose control until Nix. Nix wants to devour Kennedy’s secrets as much as she wants his. Kennedy wants to be the best spy and grab the hacker, but lines are blurred and Nix is no longer just a job. He is hijacking her heart as she is his, and it’s one messy complication that neither can afford to risk.

"Nix wants to learn more about me, but in doing so, he’ll be revealing himself to me, too. He’ll find out that two can play at this game.”


Variety is the spice of live and I love mixing up my romance reads: spice, swoon, sweet, dirty, dark, dangerous, and more. If you’re looking for romance with butterflies and flowers, something with swoon in spades, Dirty Secret may not be your cup of tea. If you like to mix up your sweet and swoon-filled love stories with hot, burning ones that are full of thrills and chills, then Dirty Secret is a secret story you need to discover…NOW!

Dirty Secret is an adrenaline rush of a romance that is a total trip of THRILLS! Action-packed. Alluring. All-consuming. Dirty Secret turned on the movie projector in my head. James Bond magic. Adventurous. Achingly addictive. I was drunk on Dirty Secret. This story was a hypnotic high I wanted to chase to the end.

I LOVED this sexy and seductive spy story! Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert are the dynamic duo who write the most delicious romances that bleed angst and action, and I'm utterly addicted to their collaborative CRACK! JUST YES! GO UNCOVER THIS DIRTY SECRET NOW!!!

★★★★★ 5 scintillating stars



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Profile Image for The BookChick .
1,454 reviews425 followers
January 8, 2017
For quite a while I have been in a reading slump because of the "sameness" of many of the books I've been reading. I am a fan of Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert individually but teamed up they created one amazing powerhouse of a story. Dirty Secret was a sexy and intriguing story of cat and mouse. One of the elements I enjoyed so much was the ever shifting role reversal of who was the cat and who was the mouse. At one point in the story Kennedy had the upper hand in the relationship with Nix but that didn't last long because he'd flip the script on her. While all this was happening between them, their feelings for one another deepened and took root. I couldn't flip the pages of my Kindle fast enough to keep up with the upbeat pace of the story. The chemistry between Nix and Kennedy was smoking hot and lines definitely blurred for them in the most delicious of ways. The climax of the story was OUTSTANDING and I loved the final outcome for the couple.

If you're looking for a thrilling enemies to lovers romance then look no further: Dirty Secret has got you covered!
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,194 reviews220 followers
September 26, 2019
5 star Review Dirty Secret by Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert

Where do I start? This is the second collaboration between Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert and I loved this story. Dirty Secret has it all, intrigue, mystery, danger, smoking hot scenes and romance.

Kennedy Barnes is determined to make a name for herself in the intelligence community and sees this assignment as her big break; no longer content to be her father's Dirty Secret. What happens when Kennedy is assigned to get close to Phoenix Ash and learn all about his illegal business practices?

When the lines between business and pleasure continually cross between Nix and Kennedy, it is difficult to know which side will win out.

What happens when Kennedy realised that all is not as it seems and that perhaps Nix is not the complete bad guy that they all think he is? Will Kennedy follow her gut instinct? Or will she bow to the pressure from her bosses and bring Nix in?

The attraction between Nix and Kennedy is instantaneous, so much so that Nix in particular has a hard time focusing on the job at hand and despite warnings from his friends, is determined to learn all there is to know about Kennedy, even inviting her to his home, his sanctuary.

This was a romance with a difference. You could feel the struggle playing out as Nix and Kennedy fought to keep their lives separate but when danger occurs it is Nix that Kennedy turns to for help.

This was an intriguing read from the first to the last page and I was disappointed when it ended. Dirty Secret was well written and I have no idea where one author ended and the other took over. Ms. Bliss and Ms. Rothert blended their writing together in such a way that the continuity was flawless.

I cannot wait to read future collaborations from these two authors.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
February 5, 2017
Paige's review:

Dirty Secret was a well balanced spy romance novel.
While reading the book I kept envisioning Brad and Angelina as Nix and Kennedy. The book reminded me of Mr and Mrs Smith movie that the paired did several years ago.

Kennedy is trying hard to make a difference in the world. I think because of her upbringing she has a tendency to see life and the people in it as black and white - No grey. No middle ground. She's struggling with this when dealing with Nix.

Phoenix Ash puts on no ayers on who he is and what he does. He's honed his hacking skills over the years and can choose what and who he wants . The more he sees Kennedy in his world the more wants her.

The pair play a intriguing game cat and mouse. I wasn't sure who was playing who throughout most of the book. Because of this I had a hard time buying their relationship with each other. It wasn't towards the end of the book that I was able to see is couple let their guard down and be themselves with each other.

We get to reconnect with past characters and are introduced to several new ones. I'm excited to read the more from this writing duo.

Review copy given with no expectations.
Profile Image for BookSmackedMel.
916 reviews386 followers
January 7, 2017
I devoured Dirty Secret in just a matter of hours. It was almost if I couldn't read fast enough.
I've read books by both authors but this is the first one I've read that was co-written by them.
This story is dangerously addicting and has all the elements you find in a great read.

The story was so seemless as if they were writing as one.
Phoenix is thrilling, mysterious and has that sexy appeal to his character. I love my alphas and Phoenix to me definitely fit the bill of what I look for in a hot alpha male.

I could easily see how Kennedy falls for him in this and it had my anxiety level high at times wondering whether Phoenix was going to find out that she is an agent assigned to put him away and how he would react.

With some high stakes moments that had my chest pounding and some moments where I thought that it would never work out this book will grip you from beginning to end. A definite must read if you are looking for a romance with some elements of danger mixed with some scorching hot sexy scenes.

I hope that we see more from these two and that Coco gets a book. Now I'm off to get Dirty Work and dive head first into that one.
Profile Image for Brianna bribookish.
1,832 reviews362 followers
April 13, 2017
I don't know what is was, but I think I just didn't fully connect with the characters. Though I did enjoy this story more than Dirty Work (I struggle with political romance though I've only read one other). But this one was different and I really enjoyed it. Regardless, I still really enjoyed these books and listening to the audio made it even better. If you're an audio fan, then you know of Sebastian York AKA the king of audio... ;)
Profile Image for Sandra.
635 reviews
February 9, 2017
Wow, just wow..This book is one of the best I've read so far in this year! I like this kind of books where you can not put it down. It has everything: action, drama, hot scenes and a lot of tension (of any kind). The heroine is so strong, young (23) and witty. The hero (around 31) is a thief and...no more. This is a MUST READ book for anyone who likes romantic suspense genre!
Profile Image for Siobhan Davis.
Author 112 books9,477 followers
January 8, 2017
Hot chemistry and edge-of-the-seat suspense combine to deliver an addictive read that I devoured in record time. I couldn't put this one down until I finished it!

Brenda Rothert is one of my favorite authors but I've yet to read any of Chelle Bliss's books - must rectify that soon if this novel is any indication of her writing style. I absolutely loved Dirty Secret from the first tantalizing page until the last. This was my kind of perfect read - chock full of steamy romance, pulse-pounding intrigue, interesting characters, intense suspense and skilful writing.

Nix was a great leading man - hot, argumentative, smart, and cunning, he could come across as a bit of an ass but he had a heart of gold underneath. My fav type of alpha male. I swooned over how protective he was of Kennedy, even though he was angry as all hell at her.

Kennedy was a kick ass black ops government intelligence agent and she was awesome!

I loved this couple and their chemistry was explosive - definitely fanning myself during this read!

I also really enjoyed the undercover subplot and the murky world of The Loft. There were plenty of dark, dangerous, suspenseful scenes where my heart was in my mouth. How they snagged the bad guy in the end was a bit too simplistic but I rolled with it anyway.

It was a tad slow moving at the start, for me, but apart from that, it was a superb book. Highly Recommended.

Actual 4.5 Stars

Thanks to the authors for providing a review copy of this book via Inkslinger PR in exchange for my honest review. This review will appear on my blog in due course - http://myyanabookobsession.com
Profile Image for Danielle.
807 reviews43 followers
February 7, 2017
I really enjoyed the first book by these two authors so I was looking forward to this book. I wanted to love this book but I only liked it. I really liked the aspect of good and bad falling in love. I liked Kennedy but she was supposed to be this bad ass spy but she just didn’t deliver in that aspect to me. Even though it was written that she did these things, it wasn’t believable to me. I liked Nix, and I just feel like someone as seasoned in what he did wouldn’t have let certain things happen. I’m not sure if this was supposed to be a romantic suspense because if so it didn’t deliver on the suspense part for me. If not forget I said that. I liked the resolution to the conflict in the story too. I feel that was well delivered. I liked the romance between Kennedy and Nix. It was sweet but steamy. All in all, I did enjoy the story and would recommend it.
Profile Image for Nazanin.
1,283 reviews837 followers
February 7, 2017
"She's the prey.
I'm the predator.
And I will devour her."


Well, I don't know what to say. This story wasn't so bad but it wasn't so good either. Yeah, I liked it but it didn't intrigue me.
Kennedy works for a clandestine intelligence organization. One of her mission is get close to Phoenix and collect evidences to put him in jail. Phoenix is the most elusive cyberthief in the world. He is smart and never leaves a trace. But when he meets Kennedy everything changes.
Due to the storyline, I expected it more exciting! It wasn't really suspense! And honestly, the ending was a little quick for my taste. But It was a smooth reading.
Profile Image for JG.
1,075 reviews68 followers
December 10, 2019
I really enjoyed this book's predecessor so I couldn’t wait to dive in to read about Reagan’s half-sister, Kennedy Barnes, and her “black ops” lifestyle.

There is something so rewarding when reading about empowered women and Kennedy's role in this book as an undercover Agent targeting arms dealers is really enjoyable. Kennedy is sexy, strong, determined and stunningly beautiful, all of which make her an extremely deadly weapon in the field, especially where men are concerned. One such unsuspecting man is Nix, a black hat hacker and someone already on Kennedy’s radar. Guilty of hacking finances and stealing millions, Nix is a prized target and when he becomes attracted to Kennedy, it’s up to her to bring him to his knees. The only problem, she manages to bring him to his knees... with love.

Kennedy knows that it’s up to her as to how far she takes her duties, but she is swayed by Nix’s good looks and easy-going personality and it’s not long before their explosive, if albeit, undercover, love affair starts. Both know they are keeping secrets from each other. Nix pleads with Kennedy to let him into her life but she knows that she can never reveal her Greenlight role to him. All Nix knows is that he needs to protect her and when things turn nasty at the Loft, a secret club used by the criminal underworld, Nix knows that he has no option but to step in.

Nix’s business is impenetrable, that it until his ward leads him down a path he can’t return from but Kennedy is there to try to smooth the waters but will Nix ever be able to forgive her when her secrets are revealed?

I did enjoy this story but I felt that I was crying out for more mystery and intrigue at times. The story, although fascinating was a relatively easy-going read and despite the inevitable love-hurdle faced by Kennedy and Nix, their story was over before it got going. Whilst I love these authors, I felt that this book was a little bit rushed at times and lacking depth and plot. That said, it’s an easily enjoyable book to read and I loved the connection between Kennedy and Nix. Kennedy’s strength of character in relation to her role as an Agent seemed a little weak on occasion but overall her character was loveable but Nix, well, he could have sold the story to me all on his own!

This ebook was kindly provided by the author prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.

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Profile Image for Peggy Lee (Reading Keeps Me Sane).
1,039 reviews41 followers
January 7, 2017
When you don't know what to expect but find yourself completely enthralled, that's Dirty Secret! The story is a steamy, suspense-filled enemy to lovers romance. The characters are kick-ass. They both have secret lives that collide in this intense, filthy spy novel.

Kennedy Barnes is the illegitimate daughter of a disgraced former senator. She's become a field agent for Greenlight, a black ops intelligence agency. One of her first missions is to track down Phoenix Ash a black hat hacker.

Phoenix 'Nix' Ash is an internationally wanted criminal. He's a black hat who steals from the rich. Nix plays it safe because he knows one day it could all come crashing down. When Kennedy steps into his life he knows that she's all wrong but he can't fight his attraction.

"It's a dangerous game we're playing, and we both know it. Maybe that's part of the infatuation and need we feel for each other. It's fueled by anger, uncertainty, distrust, but definitely attraction."

The truth can't be hidden forever and when Nix's protege makes the wrong decision his world is turned upside down. Kennedy's truth is revealed and Nix feels betrayed. Can he overcome the treachery of her betrayal or will he cut her out of his life forever?

Dirty Secret blew me away! I loved Nix's raw emotion. He followed his heart, opening up when he had spent all his life hiding from love. Kennedy is a strong kick-ass spy who fights for more than just her job. 5 Stars!!
Profile Image for My Own Bookshelves.
715 reviews136 followers
January 1, 2017
Hold on to your panties readers - there is a ghost in your machine willing to steal them and his name is Phoenix. HOLY COLD SHOWER! Okay really what is equally important is duo Chenda Rothiss offer you a suspense/thriller/romance page turner that make you forget others who may be in the house with you and need to be feed.

The story has you guessing who is really a good bad guy or a bad good guy. Not everything is clear to the reader or Kennedy on who she should trust. I thought I had it figured out and I was happily wrong. There really isn't detail I can say about the story without a "spoiler". Just know it was fun, fast and HOT!

Now, if you loved Dirty Work, you'll love this story because it's NOT Dirty Work. If you didn't read Dirty Work, never fear because it's NOT Dirty Work part two. The story stands alone and apart. However, this writing duo provides story magic that won't disappoint any new or old fans. Take a quick look at my status updates as I read along and I know you'll want to one-click this latest offering. 5 out of 5 stars

 photo Five20Stars_zpsg66onvvy.jpg
Profile Image for Maggie Lugo.
145 reviews3 followers
January 2, 2017
Can someone say "cold shower"?!
Cause Oh my freaking knickers this book was HOT!!
I rarely read a book that had me blushing while reading, and this one, this one did JUST THAT! You think you know what's going on and then you get a -SHUT THE HELL UP-slap to the face that says YOU WERE WRONG!
Damn was I glad that I was. Nix. Oh, Nix, you sure know how to make a girl blush and .... anyways, if you haven't added it to your list, do so NOW! You won't regret it. This was my first '17 book. I went to sleep at 4:30 this morning because I couldn't put it down. I NEEDED to know what the hell was going to happen next! Le sigh.
Profile Image for Patti.
1,500 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2017
HOLY Freaking AWESOMENESS!! Chelle and Brenda are an AMAZING Team. I could not put this down, and cried a little when I got to the last page. Full of twists and turns and lots of hot scenes to steam up your glasses! I cuddled up with a nice glass of Jack and a warm blanket, but was quickly throwing it off. I cannot write more for fear of giving it all away. JUST READ THIS BOOK!!! <3 <3 <3
Profile Image for Tricia Bartley.  #AuthorStalker.
1,299 reviews104 followers
June 25, 2018
WOW...the more I read this book the more exciting it got!!!

I started reading Dirty Secret late, late last night and finished this afternoon and boy did it keep me on the edge of my seat while reading.

I can not believe I waited sooo long to read the 2nd book in the Filthy Politics series!!! I sooo loved Dirty Work-book 1 in this series!! Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert are fan-dam-tastic together!!! I still have no idea who wrote what in this book...and OMG I have to know!!! I may have to send them a message and see if they will spill the beans..lol

Anyway, one of the main reasons I picked up Dirty Secret is book 3 which is Dirty Defiance will be release soon and I just had to get this one read. These books can definitely be read as standalones but OMG...don't miss out on all the action, drama and all the dirty, sexiness these two authors will reward you with!!!

I gave Dirty Secret 5 iScream "OMG-sooo HAWT" Cones!!! Can not wait for Dirty Defiance to hit my Kindle!!! Eeepp the waiting will be torture!!! : )
Profile Image for Donna.
1,398 reviews33 followers
May 12, 2019
Filthy good. Phoenix was one hot, sexy computer hacker and he short circuited around Kennedy. I loved the playfulness of this couple, there were secrets and lies, but really it was all about the sizzling romance building between 2 very secretive people. A very enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Vani.
792 reviews
February 20, 2018
Es bastante cliché y pensé que me iba a gustar más, pero es justo lo que necesitaba: una lectura sencilla y rápida de leer :D
Profile Image for Myla.
640 reviews128 followers
June 10, 2018


I enjoyed this cloak and dagger kind of a story of Kennedy and Nix! Loved it!

***Review to come
Profile Image for Amber.
1,275 reviews33 followers
February 7, 2017
Dirty Secret is an epically mind-blowing and emotionally intense nuclear bomb just waiting to go off! There is nothing more dangerous than holding such world shattering device in your hand. When you don’t know how to disarm it and stop it from exploding, the panic and tension will sear through to your very soul. Nothing is more deadly and yet nothing is more capable of making you hyper-focused on what matters the most then a weapon of mass destruction. One wrong move or one wrong combination will trigger it to wreak havoc on your life in the most permanent and earth shattering way possible. What anyone would give to know how to diffuse it would make your mind reel.

Kennedy longs to make a difference in the world. She knows the pain and sorrow that fills the homes and streets where she grew up and where she now lives, and if she can save even one life, it would all be worth it. She doesn’t mind working hard, but when her heart gets in the way of her job, she isn’t sure how to regroup or save it. She finds herself lost to a potential target, and her whole world could come falling down around her ears at any moment. Phoenix knows better than to open his life and most especially his heart to anyone. He has guarded himself for so long that he isn’t sure he know how to love anymore. One look at Kennedy and he can’t deny how he feels and what he wants. Against his better judgement, he initiates a dangerous game with her that could either blow up in their faces or prove to be best decision he ever made.

Strong, sassy, and determined Kennedy struts her way into Phoenix’s life and heart. I can’t tell you how much I love to see a big hard man come completely undone through the love of a good woman. That melts my heart faster than an ice cream cone on a hot summer day. Kennedy didn’t weaken Phoenix, but she strengthened him and he did the same for her. They became stronger and complete together, and watching that beauty unfold was like watching Heaven. It completely took my breath away!

Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert are a fantastic duet that will make you weak in the knees and crash through your heart while proving to you beyond a shadow of a doubt that love is never weak or cruel. It makes us so much better than we could ever by on our own. They have created a fantastic storyline with out of this world characters that will live with you long after you have finished this wonderful book. Whatever you do, I would encourage you to pick up one their books and give it a good chance. You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,889 reviews160 followers
February 7, 2017
Dirty Secret is an interesting title for Kennedy and Nix's story because its meaning speaks to what both of their lives are shrouded in and it also makes it perfectly clear that because lies are a mandatory facet of their lives, neither one of them can truly trust anyone and acts of betrayal are too common place to truly invest in anyone in the criminal underworld they find themselves a part of, which further complicates the idea of the good guys versus the bad ones when, realistically, some could be both.

Kennedy and Nix are playing a dangerous game, not only with one another, but also with their hearts because even though they believe they're working one another, in a way, they're doing a number on themselves because their feelings for one another are wrapped up in how in-sync they are together in bed, so things are personal between them, forcing their lives to be more complicated than they should be when it comes to doing their jobs and remaining out of someone else's crosshairs.

Kennedy and Nix's story is an enjoyable read, and the intensity of their attraction and the trouble that brings to their respective jobs is illustrated well. What I had a bit of a hard time with was how quickly things progressed between them, when both needed to remain clear-headed in their dangerous world and also how easily both characters were flipped when it came to what the outcome of Kennedy's operation would be.

I get that lust and a strong connection can be game changers when it comes to how things play out but for two people who are portrayed as controlled individuals who refuse to allow complications to get the better of them, how quickly things escalated and the miscalculations they made along the way didn't mesh well with how Kennedy and Nix ran their lives up until this point, especially Nix because he has way more to lose and his elusiveness has always been his greatest asset.

Even though I had some difficulty with how things played out, Dirty Secret is a hot and suspenseful read that will keep readers guessing until the last page because throughout the story, it's difficult to tell what kind of a criminal Nix truly is and exactly what the organization that Kennedy works for values when the bad guys are taken down.

3.5 Poison Apples
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,082 reviews895 followers
January 3, 2017
Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert pair up again to bring us Dirty Secret. Although Dirty Secret is a standalone, for those who read Dirty Work you’ll recall our heroine as Reagan’s half-sister.

In Dirty Secret, Kennedy has accepted being a part of Project Greenlight, a highly secret, intelligence organization. Deep under cover, gaining information on the worst of the worst, Kennedy stumbles upon a second mark while working her first.

Nix has made a lot of money in a very illegally way. Hacking his way through computer systems, undetected and unable to be caught. When he spies Kennedy at the underground club for the notorious, he knows she’s hiding something – and he knows getting close to her without knowing all her secrets is dangerous... but he can’t seem to stay away.

When I started reading this, I really started to wonder just how these two can really make this work. One is a criminal while the other is working to bring them down. This just can’t work. But it does.

The chemistry between Nix and Kennedy is off the charts hot. From the first glance these two had fireworks igniting and once they fell into bed, it only got hotter.

I loved the dynamic of the writing for this dual POV, dual authorship. I really think it works incredible well to ensure that the H/h have very distinct voices. I struggled a bit with the idea that Kennedy was so quick develop feelings when she was supposed to be working him for information, it made we wonder just how up for the job she really was – but the small side jobs that were thrown her way, showed that she was capable and really did lend to the idea that it was just Nix who broke through her professionalism. As the story went further, I was trying to sort out in my head just how any of this could work – how would they pull off what was seeming impossible? I should have known, should have just held on and enjoyed the ride.


ARC
Profile Image for MillsyLovesBooks.
807 reviews36 followers
February 6, 2017
Dirty Secret is the second book in this Standalone Series, although this can be read as a standalone. I had more enjoyment reading with having read Dirty Work first because when it came to Kennedy's past being mentioned i already knew but like i said it doesn't take anything away from this book.

"She’s the prey."

"I’m the predator."

"And I will devour her.”


Kennedy is working for Project Greenlight a Government secret, intelligence agency. While working undercover she finds herself crossing paths with Phoenix Ash, the best illegal hacker in the business. When her boss finds out she's made contact with him he becomes a second mark.

Phoenix Ash is a criminal there's no two ways around that. Hacking his way through computer systems never being caught. For a very good reason he keeps people at a distance doesn't trust easy. He also has a legal business as well so no one has ever been able to get enough evidence to catch him. When he spots Kennedy in the club he can tell she's hiding something and knows getting close to her without really knowing everything about her could be dangerous for him but he's drawn to her like a moth to a flame....
How can a relationship develop when there's secret's on both sides!! Well when the chemistry is as strong as it is between Phoenix and Kennedy thats how.
They both had a hard time with their feelings but when secrets become truths and all is not as it seems can they make it.

I'm a huge fan of Chelle Bliss and I love the writing duo of Chelle and Brenda. I'll honestly say i didn't think they could make this story work or it be as good as Dirty Work. But they did and it was, i should never have doubted!

Reviewed by MillsyLovesBooks

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Profile Image for BethyMac.
719 reviews25 followers
January 12, 2017
I am a huge lover of Brenda Rothert's work and have been for some time so I must say I was interested in checking out this collaboration she did with Chelle Bliss and I have read some of her work and enjoyed it as well. This type of storyline with spies and bad guys is not my normal storyline that I tend to read and enjoy but must say that I did enjoy this one.

Dirty Secret is a great secret spy / bad guy romance. Kennedy is the illegitimate daughter of a former US senator but the one constant man in her life was her uncle, who died while on duty as a police officer and has joined the Greenlight intelligence to make a difference in his honor. Her target soon becomes Phoenix Ash, a black hat hacker. But in getting close to Nix and trying to find out his secrets, she learns there is more to Nix than being a bad guy and soons finds herself caring for him. For Nix, there is something about Kennedy, he knows she will be his demise but he just can't stay away

I enjoyed the dynamic the authors built between these characters. I loved that they didn't rush the attraction between them, there was some really great build up and when things finally did happen I must say it was explosive and off the charts hot. These two when things finally ignited were good together, and I loved that these scenes were not over done and the book itself was not all sex and no story.

I really loved both Kennedy and Nix's characters, they both were such great strong, and sometimes stubborn but they were also caring. You could quickly see that they both cared about the other, that there was a connection that was just more than attraction and sex.

Overall this was a really great enjoyable read. It truly did keep me on the edge of my seat right till the very end, it had some great drama, some really great hot and sexy scenes and some really great sweet and funny ones too.
Profile Image for Paula  Phillips.
5,665 reviews340 followers
February 1, 2017
After loving Dirty Work by Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Dirty Secret as I loved the first book so much and though this one shies away from the political side of things, it was just as good maybe even more so as Dirty Secret is a jam-packed adventurous novel that delves into the world of undercover work and hackers. I also learned a new subset of hackers as I knew about the Black/White but not the Grey. Grey hackers are the Robin Hoods of the computer world. In Dirty Secret, we are reunited with Kennedy who was Reagan's half-sister, and we briefly met her in the first book when Reagan's Dad was exposed to his other family which included Kennedy and her brother. Kennedy has been working as an undercover agent for Greenlight, thanks to her new brother-in-law Jude Titan. Her current assignment as her undercover as a known crime lord's girlfriend but soon her attention will be diverted when a new player comes to the scene - Phoenix Ash. Phoenix is a computer hacker and amazing at what he does; there is also some chemistry sizzling between Kennedy and Phoenix. What will happen though when the lines between Agent and Mark start to blur? Has Kennedy lost her chance of happiness when true identities are revealed? What will happen when Kennedy's Dirty Secret can no longer stay hidden and has to be aired? One thing, I will have to say is that when it comes to Book Boyfriends - Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert have it down to a T as you just can't but help to fall in love with their male lead characters. Every time I read one of their books; I end up adding more Book Boyfriends to my list. If you love Hackers, Cyber Crimes, Spies, Adventure and a Hot Male Lead then check out Dirty Secret by Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert today.
Profile Image for Laurie.
1,014 reviews51 followers
February 7, 2017
I love the twisty world that Brenda Rothert and Chelle Bliss have created in their collaborations, first with Dirty Work and now with Dirty Secret. We leapfrog from political intrigue to a world that is equally duplicitous and unseemly, to the criminal underworld and the world of computer hacking, along with an organization charged with bringing them down.
Dirty Secret is fabulous. The lines blurred between good and bad are drawn with a grey pen. You don’t who to trust, but know that our heroine Kennedy Preston is a licensed badass. Young as she is, Kennedy is able to carry herself in and out of multiple risky situations like a chameleon. It that which gives this book and this heroine an edge that is crossed that trapeze – one false move and it’s gone.
Nix Ash is the perfect foil for Kennedy – he is brilliant, drop-dead sexy and guards himself like a Brinks truck. But, Nix cannot resist Kennedy. She is his -- pick one – catnip, kryptonite, magnet. Whatever the case, he can’t even bother fighting and the results are purely molten.
And these two together have enough dirty, hot sexual chemistry to power the New York City power grid and beyond. Their high stakes cat and mouse game is peppered with dirty talk that will have you reaching for a cold beverage that you might want to pour over your head to for some relief.
Dirty Secret is a fabulous way to lose yourself for a well-spent few hours. Because once you pick it up, there will be no putting it down. I love, love, love books like this.
Happy reading!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
132 reviews8 followers
February 7, 2017
I have been itching to get my hands on Dirty Secret ever since it was announced, because I absolutely LOVED it's predecessor, Dirty Work.

Kennedy Barnes is working intel in an underground crime ring, and when she catches the eye of super hacker extraordinaire Phoenix Ash, her mission shifts. It's simple - gain Nix's trust and get any intel possible to help bring him down.

Phoenix Ash, like any criminal mastermind, has secrets that he holds close to the vest. While he may let Kennedy in his bed, her reach doesn't go much further than that (well, except the shower, the coffee table, you get the point...).

While their interludes may be explosive, their ability to trust one another has limits. When secrets are uncovered, the delicate relationship they have started to build comes crashing down. Turns out that living on opposite sides of the law doesn't bode well for the future.

Can Kennedy and Nix find a way to walk the line without getting burned? Or will their relationship go up in flames?

Loved Kennedy and Nix, and I was absolutely thrilled to check in with Reagan and Jude as well. Four stars and two thumbs up for Dirty Secret!

Profile Image for Cathlin.
Author 11 books59 followers
January 15, 2017
I wanted to love this one as much as Dirty Work, but I didn't quite. Don't get me wrong, it was still a good read, but it just didn't have quite that zing that Reagan and Jude seemed to have (but I loved their cameos!!!) for me at least. Kennedy was a fantastic kick butt and take no names kind of girl, and I adored that Nix was clueless about her identity and wanted to be her white knight. Together there was definitely quite a bit of chemistry, and it was full of steam just like Dirty Work, but I almost felt like there was more steam than swoon worthy moments which the hopeless romantic in me craved more of those between the two main characters. A good read if you're looking for a hot bit of fun to read and are a fan of enemies to lovers (or more like star-crossed lovers in this case...perhaps that's where I was missing the zing, they didn't quite feel like enemies to me initially).
Profile Image for Rose.
1,453 reviews14 followers
January 6, 2017
I LOVE Chelle Bliss!!! Absolutely love her books!!!

This one is a bit different than the ones I've read before. Although this book is a stand alone it is loosely connected to Dirty Work, written by Chelle Bliss and Brenda Rothert. My goodness, the only thing I like better than a hot alpha male is a woman that can not only stand toe to toe with said alpha, but can stand up for herself in any given situation. Kennedy Barnes is absolutely capable of doing that, and more, when needed. And Nix Ash, oh my!!! Hot, smart, and the best kind of alpha!!!

This book brings all that readers have come to expect from these authors; high heat, suspense, an HEA, and so much more!!! Definitely a book a would recommend to anyone who loves all of that!!!
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