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Alpha Ops #6
Turn Me Loose
At eighteen, Riva Henneman was a messed up college freshman, selling drugs on campus in the hopes of earning her sociopath/criminal father's attention and love. When Officer Ian Hawthorn busted her, he gave her choice: work for him as a confidential informant or go to jail. Still angry over the cancer diagnosis that derailed his plans to become a SEAL like his brother, he wanted to see Riva as nothing more than a way to break a college drug ring and earn the commendations he needed to make sergeant.
But over long nights in a car, neither could ignore the attraction building between them. Aware of the power he held over her, Ian wouldn't let anything happen. Years later, when Ian arrests one of the kids in Riva's urban farming program, Riva puts herself in Ian's hands again, offering up her father in exchange for the kid's freedom. This time they're both adults, able to surrender to their reckless desire. But when their lives are threatened, can they find their way through a dangerous maze of secrets to safety, and to love?
351 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2017
20 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Anne Calhoun
52 books656 followersAfter doing time at Fortune 500 companies on both coasts, I found myself living in the suburbs of a small Midwestern city. The glamour of various cube farm jobs had worn off, so I gave up making a decent living to take Joseph Campbell’s advice and follow my bliss: writing romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 15, 2017
When Riva Henneman was eighteen she was busted for selling drugs by Officer Ian Hawthorn and given the option to avoid jail time by becoming a confidential informant. What Riva never revealed at that time was that she was really working for her father who turned his back on her after her arrest. With long nights together the two grew an attraction but neither acted upon it.
Now Riva has straightened out her life and runs her own restaurant using farm fresh ingredients she mostly grows herself. Also Riva is trying to work with the youth of the community giving them an opportunity for better lives. But when Ian Hawthorn walks into her restaurant she finds herself again extremely attracted to him and again trying to make a deal with him to save one of the kids working with her.
Turn Me Loose is the sixth book in the Alpha Ops series by Anne Calhoun. Each book in the series features a different couple so it is not necessary to have read the prior books in the series to enjoy this one. The male characters in the series each have some sort of military background in the stories tying the series together.
For me this edition to the series rates at about 3.5 stars. I found the couple to be alright but they also didn't really grab me and make me fall in love with their story the way I'd like to rate a bit higher. I kind of questioned what exactly had changed that made it alright to pursue a relationship now when it wasn't when they worked together before. Riva really was still going to be in danger trying to get the evidence needed but this time was also a lot more personal for her so it still seemed to be a stop sign to starting something between them. However if overlooking that dynamic the writing is still good turning it into an ok romance read.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Now Riva has straightened out her life and runs her own restaurant using farm fresh ingredients she mostly grows herself. Also Riva is trying to work with the youth of the community giving them an opportunity for better lives. But when Ian Hawthorn walks into her restaurant she finds herself again extremely attracted to him and again trying to make a deal with him to save one of the kids working with her.
Turn Me Loose is the sixth book in the Alpha Ops series by Anne Calhoun. Each book in the series features a different couple so it is not necessary to have read the prior books in the series to enjoy this one. The male characters in the series each have some sort of military background in the stories tying the series together.
For me this edition to the series rates at about 3.5 stars. I found the couple to be alright but they also didn't really grab me and make me fall in love with their story the way I'd like to rate a bit higher. I kind of questioned what exactly had changed that made it alright to pursue a relationship now when it wasn't when they worked together before. Riva really was still going to be in danger trying to get the evidence needed but this time was also a lot more personal for her so it still seemed to be a stop sign to starting something between them. However if overlooking that dynamic the writing is still good turning it into an ok romance read.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
November 17, 2025
TURN ME LOOSE is a read that will certainly get your adrenaline pumping with its fast pace, fiery chemistry and suspense filled plot.
I really enjoyed this novel. Calhoun gives us a great love story all around second chances.
I received this ARC copy of Turn Me Loose from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review. Turn Me Loose is set for publication May 30, 2017.
I really enjoyed this novel. Calhoun gives us a great love story all around second chances.
I received this ARC copy of Turn Me Loose from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review. Turn Me Loose is set for publication May 30, 2017.
May 30, 2017
3.5 Stars!
A second chance romance that seems doomed even the second time around. Ian arrested Reva when she was 18. He made a deal with her to become an informant and there would be no record of her arrest. Disheartened by her drug dealing dad's refusal to help, she takes the deal.
Ian an Reva had instant attraction but for obvious reason, nothing could happen. 7 years later and they meet again. Reva's all grown up now, staying clean and helping local kids learn to farm-to-table. Still very much off limits, Ian and Reva team up again after one of her "kids" gets arrested. She makes a new deal to get her father if they let Isiah go.
Working together again brings back not only their attraction but also Reva's resentment for the way he used her for his job. Ian knows he couldn't give in to his attraction then or now but will he really be able to say no to the adult Reva he has come to respect?
This is one of those books that I feel like I should have loved, but I never really fell into the story. I don't have any obvious complaints about it and I felt it was well written. I just didn't get all that excited about it. It's a safe read. Minimal violence, no sexual abuse and no other women/men drama. ARC provided by NetGalley.
A second chance romance that seems doomed even the second time around. Ian arrested Reva when she was 18. He made a deal with her to become an informant and there would be no record of her arrest. Disheartened by her drug dealing dad's refusal to help, she takes the deal.
Ian an Reva had instant attraction but for obvious reason, nothing could happen. 7 years later and they meet again. Reva's all grown up now, staying clean and helping local kids learn to farm-to-table. Still very much off limits, Ian and Reva team up again after one of her "kids" gets arrested. She makes a new deal to get her father if they let Isiah go.
Working together again brings back not only their attraction but also Reva's resentment for the way he used her for his job. Ian knows he couldn't give in to his attraction then or now but will he really be able to say no to the adult Reva he has come to respect?
This is one of those books that I feel like I should have loved, but I never really fell into the story. I don't have any obvious complaints about it and I felt it was well written. I just didn't get all that excited about it. It's a safe read. Minimal violence, no sexual abuse and no other women/men drama. ARC provided by NetGalley.
May 7, 2017
5 - Second chance stars!
This book was so good!
I loved Lieutenant Ian Hawthorne's (Ian's) history with Riva and how the author gave us (the readers) snippets of their past and how it related to what was happening in the present.
Ms. Calhoun writes the best passionate and erotic scenes and this book is no exception.
One of my favorite scenes in the book is when Ian and Riva go out to the club in Chicago.
Great writing, characters and storytelling!
Full review to be posted closer to release date.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was so good!
I loved Lieutenant Ian Hawthorne's (Ian's) history with Riva and how the author gave us (the readers) snippets of their past and how it related to what was happening in the present.
Ms. Calhoun writes the best passionate and erotic scenes and this book is no exception.
One of my favorite scenes in the book is when Ian and Riva go out to the club in Chicago.
Great writing, characters and storytelling!
Full review to be posted closer to release date.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2017
Riva Henneman has come a long way from the desperate girl looking for her daddy's approval. Working her butt off to re-invent herself and finally be the strong confident woman she always wanted to be. Staying on the straight and narrow was supposed to guarantee she never crosses paths with Officer Ian Harthorn again.
But when Ian walks back into her life, Riva finds that seven years isn't enough to erase their turbulent history. She still feels the explosive attraction between them but also the anger, resentment and embarrassment that bubbles just under the surface.
Going under cover with his former informant isn't how Ian pictured seeing Riva again. Even after seven long years, his feeling for Riva haven't dimmed. There is something thats been brewing between them from the first moment they met and Ian will have to decide whether he's ready to explore that or live up to his ruthless ambition. Will he choose his career or the woman that's become so important to him?
What I liked:
Not surprising (if you've read Anne Calhoun before) the emotional pull between these characters is palpable. Ian and Riva are far from perfect peope, each one fighting their own demons. I liked reading about these two average normal every day people confronting their pasts and letting down their guard.
What I didn't like:
Flashbacks. They just don't work for me. I feel that when there are two stories going on simulantiously, I connect more with one than the other and I always find myself frustrated to leave one time line and skimming through the other.
Favorite Line:
"The definition of crazy is doing the same thing and expecting different results. I was crazy. I was the best cop I could be, the best sergeant, the best lieutenant. It was never enough. But she's enough. She's more than enough. "
Memorable Moments:
The raw unfiltered smexy time in the shower after Ian's boxing match. I did not see that coming! Seriously, way to think outside the box A.C.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
SAFETY INFO
But when Ian walks back into her life, Riva finds that seven years isn't enough to erase their turbulent history. She still feels the explosive attraction between them but also the anger, resentment and embarrassment that bubbles just under the surface.
Going under cover with his former informant isn't how Ian pictured seeing Riva again. Even after seven long years, his feeling for Riva haven't dimmed. There is something thats been brewing between them from the first moment they met and Ian will have to decide whether he's ready to explore that or live up to his ruthless ambition. Will he choose his career or the woman that's become so important to him?
What I liked:
Not surprising (if you've read Anne Calhoun before) the emotional pull between these characters is palpable. Ian and Riva are far from perfect peope, each one fighting their own demons. I liked reading about these two average normal every day people confronting their pasts and letting down their guard.
What I didn't like:
Flashbacks. They just don't work for me. I feel that when there are two stories going on simulantiously, I connect more with one than the other and I always find myself frustrated to leave one time line and skimming through the other.
Favorite Line:
"The definition of crazy is doing the same thing and expecting different results. I was crazy. I was the best cop I could be, the best sergeant, the best lieutenant. It was never enough. But she's enough. She's more than enough. "
Memorable Moments:
The raw unfiltered smexy time in the shower after Ian's boxing match. I did not see that coming! Seriously, way to think outside the box A.C.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
SAFETY INFO
May 29, 2017
At eighteen, all Riva wanted was her father’s approval. In order to gain it she did some rather unsavory things which led her directly into Ian’s path. It was tantamount that their attraction to each other be denied. Only the promise of what could have been was experienced as neither ever crossed the line.
Seven years later, Riva has a new life that gives her joy and happiness while also helping young teenagers at risk. When Ian plans to use one of her students in the same manner he had used her, she steps in to intervene. What follows is an emotionally intense story of letting go of the past as well as each of them coming to terms with who they are now and who they choose to be in the future.
This is a rather wordy book and not a fast read. There were times when the internal dialogue just became a bit boring. It might not have bothered me so much had I been allowed to see the progression of Ian and Riva falling in love but what little there was of that came much, much later in the book.
The most gut wrenching moment was when the author opened the door to expose Riva’s parent’s relationship. It literally stole my breath and made me realize what she had had to endure while growing up and even why she had made those decisions when younger. While there is not much levity between this couple, there was some fun moments with Ian’s coworkers. I am especially curious about Jo and Caleb’s story and will be anxiously watching for it.
ARC provided for an honest review
Dual POV
No Physical Abuse
Possible Triggers -
Seven years later, Riva has a new life that gives her joy and happiness while also helping young teenagers at risk. When Ian plans to use one of her students in the same manner he had used her, she steps in to intervene. What follows is an emotionally intense story of letting go of the past as well as each of them coming to terms with who they are now and who they choose to be in the future.
This is a rather wordy book and not a fast read. There were times when the internal dialogue just became a bit boring. It might not have bothered me so much had I been allowed to see the progression of Ian and Riva falling in love but what little there was of that came much, much later in the book.
The most gut wrenching moment was when the author opened the door to expose Riva’s parent’s relationship. It literally stole my breath and made me realize what she had had to endure while growing up and even why she had made those decisions when younger. While there is not much levity between this couple, there was some fun moments with Ian’s coworkers. I am especially curious about Jo and Caleb’s story and will be anxiously watching for it.
ARC provided for an honest review
Dual POV
No Physical Abuse
Possible Triggers -
December 7, 2019
ARC received for review
I just didn't get the chemistry between Ian and Riva. They had some brewing 6-7 years ago, but it took forever to fan it into flames this time. Conn (from book 5) finally gets his name cleared, but we don't really see it in this book. It's kind of glossed over. Ms. Calhoun has set up book 7, but I can't find it anywhere.
I just didn't get the chemistry between Ian and Riva. They had some brewing 6-7 years ago, but it took forever to fan it into flames this time. Conn (from book 5) finally gets his name cleared, but we don't really see it in this book. It's kind of glossed over. Ms. Calhoun has set up book 7, but I can't find it anywhere.
April 10, 2021
So this book was almost 7 euro for kindle version but the last two A Calhoun books I read were 4.5 stars or 5 for the fab Liberating Lacy . So I didn't hesitate to buy it as I am in a real book slump and wanted something to look forward to. I knew Anne Calhoun could write and would have a nice good quality flow of story but straight off the bat something was niggling at me that this book wasn't just doing it for me.
It started off great a bit of enemies to lovers, he was a cop and she was dealing drugs so he arrests her but cuts her a deal to inform for the police and she won't be charged. 7 years on she has made a great life and he comes in to eat in her restaurant. there is a back story for her to explain her actions when she was younger which we learn shortly after with a time jump . The back story includes an over the top villain of a dad and that is where I felt things unravel.
We also get small reference or flashbacks to them at stakeouts in a car while she was helping him.
Anyway it started to feel a bit implausible ---7 years on she is selling out her drug baron dad to save a young guy that works for her and both her and the hero cop were going undercover outside of his jurisdiction to set a honey trap and get the dad sent to jail....ensue simmering 'I always wanted you moments …but we cant....but its inevitable ... kind of stuff....normally I love a bit of forbidden romance.. and therein I felt that was the reason for my not digging the book the implausibility ....he had to take sick leave as his boss wouldn't allow him to do under cover....but after 7 years of having not laid eyes on this girl he had to put career etc. on hold and ensure her safety... then I thought about the other book I loved by this author and the heroine had escaped from a religious cult, and bought the hero at a bachelor auction to take her virginity...so fairly unbelievable plot but I loved it...
So I can't blame the improbable feel in this book completely.....but as I read on I realised what it was and it came down to a few things that for me ran consecutively throughout the book.
1. the hero...he was meant to be an alpha cop I think but he came across a little bit stupid...in one scene the heroine had to pull down his sweater because he was showing his concealed weapon while they were undercover in her family home with him meant to pretending he was a kitchen hand or something in her restaurant ...I was embarrassed for him lol
2. the implausibility...this coupled with the hero being a bit thick just made for hard reading.
3. there was a repetitive nature when it came to the heroines business and farm to table crap that just was brought into way too much dialogue....I like detail but it was repeated.
4. There seemed to be over dramitsation at times too... they arrived at her family home and conveniently the mother had a wing of house converted into a two bed suite
with an adjoining door. The author went into way too much explanation and telling instead of just letting it happen organically in the story. The mother announced she had it coverted into a two bed suite for her grandkids. The heroine is 24, single and an only child....like who converts their house for grandkids that may or may not come 10 years down the line....this was all to rationalise why the MC's were now in a two bed adjoining suite.
On realising they had an adjoining door and a 'romantic fireplace' they stood and stared at each other and she was all oh my god we can't have an adjoining door you know what will happen and we can't let that happen. I rolled my eyes a lot lets put it that way.
5. I actually would have rated this higher if I hadn't paid so much for a kindle version but to have all the above niggling at you and then to realise you were completely overcharged for an under par book.
I had set the bar high for this author and they writing style is still good but too many things that annoy me to feel this was worth the dough.
It started off great a bit of enemies to lovers, he was a cop and she was dealing drugs so he arrests her but cuts her a deal to inform for the police and she won't be charged. 7 years on she has made a great life and he comes in to eat in her restaurant. there is a back story for her to explain her actions when she was younger which we learn shortly after with a time jump . The back story includes an over the top villain of a dad and that is where I felt things unravel.
We also get small reference or flashbacks to them at stakeouts in a car while she was helping him.
Anyway it started to feel a bit implausible ---7 years on she is selling out her drug baron dad to save a young guy that works for her and both her and the hero cop were going undercover outside of his jurisdiction to set a honey trap and get the dad sent to jail....ensue simmering 'I always wanted you moments …but we cant....but its inevitable ... kind of stuff....normally I love a bit of forbidden romance.. and therein I felt that was the reason for my not digging the book the implausibility ....he had to take sick leave as his boss wouldn't allow him to do under cover....but after 7 years of having not laid eyes on this girl he had to put career etc. on hold and ensure her safety... then I thought about the other book I loved by this author and the heroine had escaped from a religious cult, and bought the hero at a bachelor auction to take her virginity...so fairly unbelievable plot but I loved it...
So I can't blame the improbable feel in this book completely.....but as I read on I realised what it was and it came down to a few things that for me ran consecutively throughout the book.
1. the hero...he was meant to be an alpha cop I think but he came across a little bit stupid...in one scene the heroine had to pull down his sweater because he was showing his concealed weapon while they were undercover in her family home with him meant to pretending he was a kitchen hand or something in her restaurant ...I was embarrassed for him lol
2. the implausibility...this coupled with the hero being a bit thick just made for hard reading.
3. there was a repetitive nature when it came to the heroines business and farm to table crap that just was brought into way too much dialogue....I like detail but it was repeated.
4. There seemed to be over dramitsation at times too... they arrived at her family home and conveniently the mother had a wing of house converted into a two bed suite
with an adjoining door. The author went into way too much explanation and telling instead of just letting it happen organically in the story. The mother announced she had it coverted into a two bed suite for her grandkids. The heroine is 24, single and an only child....like who converts their house for grandkids that may or may not come 10 years down the line....this was all to rationalise why the MC's were now in a two bed adjoining suite.
On realising they had an adjoining door and a 'romantic fireplace' they stood and stared at each other and she was all oh my god we can't have an adjoining door you know what will happen and we can't let that happen. I rolled my eyes a lot lets put it that way.
5. I actually would have rated this higher if I hadn't paid so much for a kindle version but to have all the above niggling at you and then to realise you were completely overcharged for an under par book.
I had set the bar high for this author and they writing style is still good but too many things that annoy me to feel this was worth the dough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2018
I enjoyed this book. It was much more introspective than I expected and I felt instead of making light of their previous power dynamics and situation they met in the author managed their new changed circumstances really well, allowing the heroine and hero to work through their past, plus both of them had changed a lot and the book wasn't just about giving into the chemistry between them.
April 28, 2017
When police detective Ian Hawthorn decides to eat in a new restaurant, he runs into the owner Riva Henneman. While Ian is happy to meet up with Riva again, she is less than thrilled to see him. Seven years previously when he was a new cop, Ian busted college student Riva for selling drugs; then forced her to be an informant on a sting to bring down her dealer. They became close; but after it was all over she disappeared from his life.
Now, after meeting again all these years later, he wonders if there could be a second chance for them to have a real relationship. When Riva finally informs him who the real leader of the drug ring is, Ian makes plans to bring him down; but once again he needs Riva's help.
Good RS story, if a little light in the suspense. There were also quite a few flashback sequences at the beginnings of the early chapters. I'm not crazy about flashbacks as a storytelling device. I would much prefer a prologue and then move on to the present day plotline. That personal preference aside; this was an enjoyable read.
Now, after meeting again all these years later, he wonders if there could be a second chance for them to have a real relationship. When Riva finally informs him who the real leader of the drug ring is, Ian makes plans to bring him down; but once again he needs Riva's help.
Good RS story, if a little light in the suspense. There were also quite a few flashback sequences at the beginnings of the early chapters. I'm not crazy about flashbacks as a storytelling device. I would much prefer a prologue and then move on to the present day plotline. That personal preference aside; this was an enjoyable read.
July 26, 2017
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so that's 4.5 stars
Although Turn Me Loose is billed as the sixth book in Anne Calhoun’s Alpha Ops series, the author includes enough relevant information about previous situations and characters to make it work as a standalone, although I will admit to having re-read AAR’s review of Under the Surface in order to remind myself of a couple of things. This book turns the spotlight on Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn of the Lancaster PD, an ambitious officer with his eye on a captain’s stripes – stripes he hopes to earn by finally bringing down a large drug cartel and convicting the cops who are taking bribes and turning a blind eye to its operations. Turn Me Loose isn’t overly action-packed – there aren’t many car chases and shoot-out set-pieces – but I didn’t mind that because the story the author is telling is more character driven and that focus works well. The lack of action doesn’t mean there’s a lack of suspense, however – that comes from the protagonists’ proximity to the bad guy and the ever-present sense of danger the author creates as a result; and ultimately, I was absorbed in the story from beginning to end.
When she was just eighteen, Riva Henneman was arrested when she attempted to sell drugs to an undercover cop. Given the choice of prison or working as a confidential informant for Ian Hawthorn, Riva chose the latter, and helped him to bring a major dealer to trial. They haven’t seen each other since they parted seven years ago, and in the intervening years, Riva has turned her life around and now runs a scheme to help disadvantaged kids in the Lancaster area. She owns a small farm and a restaurant – Oasis – and is part of the growing farm-to-table movement which is dedicated to harvesting and cooking the freshest seasonal produce. She can’t believe her eyes one night when Ian Hawthorn walks in and asks for a table, his mere presence churning up feelings she’d thought dead and buried seven years ago.
Ian is equally surprised and unsettled to see Riva there, unable to believe the strength of the pull he still feels towards her after seven years. She is obviously not pleased to see him and at the end of the evening, asks him not to return, but fate has other ideas. When one of her young trainees is arrested for assisting his drug-dealing brother, Riva steps in to help secure his release by offering Ian some information she omitted to tell him when she was working for him – namely that back when he’d busted her for dealing, she had been working for her father, Rory Henneman, and that he is the man behind the pipeline of drugs flooding into Lancaster.
Ian is stunned by the news, but willing to listen further. Riva tells him that she’s no longer the gullible eighteen-year-old who so craved her father’s approbation that she would do anything to earn it, and explains that she knows where she can lay her hands on all the evidence Ian will need to convict him.
Even after seven years, Ian still feels guilty about all the potentially dangerous situations he sent Riva into in the past, and is not prepared to let her enter the lion’s den alone. He insists on accompanying her home to Chicago, where Riva plans to re-ingratiate herself with her father and gain his confidence with a view to becoming part of his operation in order to get the information she needs.
On meeting Rory Henneman, however, Ian decides upon an alternative strategy. Henneman is a sociopath, an egocentric, conscienceless and intelligent man who thrives on adulation and on playing mind-games with those around him, and Ian immediately senses that the way in is for him to act the part of willing acolyte. But it’s risky – Riva knows what her father is capable of and isn’t happy – but Ian is prepared to do anything to keep her safe, even if it means putting himself in harm’s way.
The past Ian and Riva share is littered with hurt and misunderstandings, made even more complicated by the almost overwhelming attraction they felt for each other but never acted upon. When they meet again, that attraction slams into them both full force, but they’re older, wiser and more cautious; having a relationship with Riva could seriously derail Ian’s career plans and Riva finds it hard to let go of her bitterness and mistrust over the way Ian used her. Gradually, they both start to see that they are different people now and allow themselves to open up to each other; it’s a slow-burn but they have terrific chemistry and their willingness to communicate and be honest with one another is refreshing. I always enjoy romances where the characters act like adults and are mature enough to realise the importance of actually talking to each other instead of retreating behind emotional walls.
One of the other things that impressed me about the book was the way in which the author deals with the fact that Ian is a cancer survivor, capturing his bitterness at what the disease took from him and his frustrations at the way his body was betraying him when he was sick. Even though he’s been clear for almost ten years, he hates people knowing about it because he doesn’t want to be seen as anything special. He doesn’t want pity, he doesn’t want a free pass because he’s been ill – he just wants to be Ian, and while I am lucky enough not to have personal experience to draw from, these feelings seemed very realistic to me.
Turn Me Loose kept me hooked from start to finish, and I raced through it in just a couple of sittings. Ian and Riva are well-rounded, flawed, but likeable characters whose issues serve to create an interesting conflict between them without turning the story into an over-the-top angst fest; their sexual chemistry is scorching and the love scenes are both tender and steamy. Ms. Calhoun does a great job with the suspense elements, too, gradually increasing the sense of peril and raising the stakes as our heroes become more closely enmeshed with Henneman. The writing flows smoothly and the story is well-paced, with the judicious use of flashbacks to give readers an insight into Ian and Riva’s complicated history.
Turn Me Loose is recommended for fans of romantic suspense who like a strong emphasis on the romance and a couple of protagonists who aren’t afraid to tell it like it is. I’ll definitely be seeking out this author’s backlist.
Although Turn Me Loose is billed as the sixth book in Anne Calhoun’s Alpha Ops series, the author includes enough relevant information about previous situations and characters to make it work as a standalone, although I will admit to having re-read AAR’s review of Under the Surface in order to remind myself of a couple of things. This book turns the spotlight on Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn of the Lancaster PD, an ambitious officer with his eye on a captain’s stripes – stripes he hopes to earn by finally bringing down a large drug cartel and convicting the cops who are taking bribes and turning a blind eye to its operations. Turn Me Loose isn’t overly action-packed – there aren’t many car chases and shoot-out set-pieces – but I didn’t mind that because the story the author is telling is more character driven and that focus works well. The lack of action doesn’t mean there’s a lack of suspense, however – that comes from the protagonists’ proximity to the bad guy and the ever-present sense of danger the author creates as a result; and ultimately, I was absorbed in the story from beginning to end.
When she was just eighteen, Riva Henneman was arrested when she attempted to sell drugs to an undercover cop. Given the choice of prison or working as a confidential informant for Ian Hawthorn, Riva chose the latter, and helped him to bring a major dealer to trial. They haven’t seen each other since they parted seven years ago, and in the intervening years, Riva has turned her life around and now runs a scheme to help disadvantaged kids in the Lancaster area. She owns a small farm and a restaurant – Oasis – and is part of the growing farm-to-table movement which is dedicated to harvesting and cooking the freshest seasonal produce. She can’t believe her eyes one night when Ian Hawthorn walks in and asks for a table, his mere presence churning up feelings she’d thought dead and buried seven years ago.
Ian is equally surprised and unsettled to see Riva there, unable to believe the strength of the pull he still feels towards her after seven years. She is obviously not pleased to see him and at the end of the evening, asks him not to return, but fate has other ideas. When one of her young trainees is arrested for assisting his drug-dealing brother, Riva steps in to help secure his release by offering Ian some information she omitted to tell him when she was working for him – namely that back when he’d busted her for dealing, she had been working for her father, Rory Henneman, and that he is the man behind the pipeline of drugs flooding into Lancaster.
Ian is stunned by the news, but willing to listen further. Riva tells him that she’s no longer the gullible eighteen-year-old who so craved her father’s approbation that she would do anything to earn it, and explains that she knows where she can lay her hands on all the evidence Ian will need to convict him.
Even after seven years, Ian still feels guilty about all the potentially dangerous situations he sent Riva into in the past, and is not prepared to let her enter the lion’s den alone. He insists on accompanying her home to Chicago, where Riva plans to re-ingratiate herself with her father and gain his confidence with a view to becoming part of his operation in order to get the information she needs.
On meeting Rory Henneman, however, Ian decides upon an alternative strategy. Henneman is a sociopath, an egocentric, conscienceless and intelligent man who thrives on adulation and on playing mind-games with those around him, and Ian immediately senses that the way in is for him to act the part of willing acolyte. But it’s risky – Riva knows what her father is capable of and isn’t happy – but Ian is prepared to do anything to keep her safe, even if it means putting himself in harm’s way.
The past Ian and Riva share is littered with hurt and misunderstandings, made even more complicated by the almost overwhelming attraction they felt for each other but never acted upon. When they meet again, that attraction slams into them both full force, but they’re older, wiser and more cautious; having a relationship with Riva could seriously derail Ian’s career plans and Riva finds it hard to let go of her bitterness and mistrust over the way Ian used her. Gradually, they both start to see that they are different people now and allow themselves to open up to each other; it’s a slow-burn but they have terrific chemistry and their willingness to communicate and be honest with one another is refreshing. I always enjoy romances where the characters act like adults and are mature enough to realise the importance of actually talking to each other instead of retreating behind emotional walls.
One of the other things that impressed me about the book was the way in which the author deals with the fact that Ian is a cancer survivor, capturing his bitterness at what the disease took from him and his frustrations at the way his body was betraying him when he was sick. Even though he’s been clear for almost ten years, he hates people knowing about it because he doesn’t want to be seen as anything special. He doesn’t want pity, he doesn’t want a free pass because he’s been ill – he just wants to be Ian, and while I am lucky enough not to have personal experience to draw from, these feelings seemed very realistic to me.
Turn Me Loose kept me hooked from start to finish, and I raced through it in just a couple of sittings. Ian and Riva are well-rounded, flawed, but likeable characters whose issues serve to create an interesting conflict between them without turning the story into an over-the-top angst fest; their sexual chemistry is scorching and the love scenes are both tender and steamy. Ms. Calhoun does a great job with the suspense elements, too, gradually increasing the sense of peril and raising the stakes as our heroes become more closely enmeshed with Henneman. The writing flows smoothly and the story is well-paced, with the judicious use of flashbacks to give readers an insight into Ian and Riva’s complicated history.
Turn Me Loose is recommended for fans of romantic suspense who like a strong emphasis on the romance and a couple of protagonists who aren’t afraid to tell it like it is. I’ll definitely be seeking out this author’s backlist.
May 30, 2017
'TURN ME LOOSE" by Anne Calhoun is book Six in the "Alpha Ops" series. This is the story of Riva Henneman and Ian Hawthorn. I have not yet read the other books in this series so for me this was a standalone book.
Riva was young teenage girl when she first met Ian. Ian was an Officer who caught her committing a crime of selling Drugs. Ian saw something in Riva and gave her a chance to redeem herself by becoming a confidential informant. Now years later Riva has turned her life around having a great job and even working with kids. When Ian walks into her Restaurant the old attraction they had earlier is back. This time they are going to act on it!
This was a exciting read with a Second Chance at Love.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
Riva was young teenage girl when she first met Ian. Ian was an Officer who caught her committing a crime of selling Drugs. Ian saw something in Riva and gave her a chance to redeem herself by becoming a confidential informant. Now years later Riva has turned her life around having a great job and even working with kids. When Ian walks into her Restaurant the old attraction they had earlier is back. This time they are going to act on it!
This was a exciting read with a Second Chance at Love.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
May 31, 2017
Three and a half stars.
Seven years ago Riva Henneman got caught selling drugs to an undercover policeman. Since then she has turned her life around and become a young entrepreneur, running a farm and a restaurant on the Farm to Table philosophy which she uses to teach inner city kids about food and self-respect.
Seven years ago Ian Hawthorn was still angry that his carefully planned life had been ruined by ill-health and he was working undercover to break up a drug dealing ring in the city.
When Ian walks into Riva's restaurant for dinner the smouldering attraction is still there, but can a cop ever date a former confidential informant? And can Riva forgive the man who blackmailed her and put her in danger? Their first re-connection doesn't go well and Riva tells Ian not to come back, but then one of Riva's trainees gets pulled for assisting his drug-dealing brother and suddenly she is back in the thick of things - and the danger may lie closer to home.
This felt more of a slow burn than the previous books, although there was suspense it was less of a whodunit and more of a willhecatchon? I liked it and this remains an autobuy series for me, but it wasn't as strong as Going Deep.
Recommended if you like your romance more thoughtful and nuanced, your heroes able to string a sentence together and your heroine with issues but not a full on angst fest - just my cup of tea in other words!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Seven years ago Riva Henneman got caught selling drugs to an undercover policeman. Since then she has turned her life around and become a young entrepreneur, running a farm and a restaurant on the Farm to Table philosophy which she uses to teach inner city kids about food and self-respect.
Seven years ago Ian Hawthorn was still angry that his carefully planned life had been ruined by ill-health and he was working undercover to break up a drug dealing ring in the city.
When Ian walks into Riva's restaurant for dinner the smouldering attraction is still there, but can a cop ever date a former confidential informant? And can Riva forgive the man who blackmailed her and put her in danger? Their first re-connection doesn't go well and Riva tells Ian not to come back, but then one of Riva's trainees gets pulled for assisting his drug-dealing brother and suddenly she is back in the thick of things - and the danger may lie closer to home.
This felt more of a slow burn than the previous books, although there was suspense it was less of a whodunit and more of a willhecatchon? I liked it and this remains an autobuy series for me, but it wasn't as strong as Going Deep.
Recommended if you like your romance more thoughtful and nuanced, your heroes able to string a sentence together and your heroine with issues but not a full on angst fest - just my cup of tea in other words!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
May 31, 2017
The Alpha Ops series by Anne Calhoun has the best kind of heroes – Navy SEALs and police officers – and delivers a sexy and suspenseful story every time. Turn Me Loose is the 6th book in the standalone series and the third full-length novel. I’ve been eager to read Ian Hawthorn’s story since he appeared as a secondary character in earlier books, and this romance definitely lived up to my expectations.
As a new cop, fresh out of the SEALs due to unforeseen circumstances, Ian is driven to succeed. When he catches a young college woman selling drugs in an undercover sting, he offers her a choice – jail time or working with him to catch some of the bigger fish involved in the drug trade.
When Riva Henneman gets caught by Ian she’s humiliated, having thought the spark of attraction she’d felt when they’d made eye contact would mean a date after the deal, not handcuffs. Though her reasons for what she’s caught doing are complicated, she understands the chance Ian is giving her when he offers her the deal to work with him. Once the job is done, she makes good on her promise to herself to do better and becomes a farm to table operator, running a restaurant with the help of disadvantaged youth one step away from their own trouble on the streets.
Riva’s criminal past remains hidden – until Ian shows up one day in her restaurant several years later. A chance circumstance with one of her employees leads to Riva making another deal with Ian – she knows more secrets about the local drug trade than she’d let on before and even though she’s kept herself clean, she’s willing to put it all on the line to help Ian take down the leader. The flare of attraction between them is as strong as ever, one Ian couldn’t and wouldn’t act on when she was his informant and he was in a position of power. Now they are equals, and Riva isn’t that 18-year-old girl anymore. They’ve both had dreams of ‘what if’ in the intervening years, and fate seems to have given them a second chance. As things heat up between them, the danger does too. Will their happy ever after end far too soon?
I definitely did not expect the first meeting between Ian and Riva to turn out the way it did! From the very start of the story, I was hooked, eager to see how things in the present could work out for them based on their past history. I really admired Riva’s character, how she owned up to the choices she’d made and fought to make things better. She has a complicated relationship with her parents, and they play a key role in the plot of the story as Riva has to make choices that will affect them as well.
There’s a high level of tension throughout, both on the suspense side of the story as well as between Riva and Ian. Ian has a lot of personal issues related to getting involved with Riva but he soon comes to realize that a relationship with her is more valuable to him than advancing his career. Still, his drive to solve the case he’s been working on for years that involves the local drug trade and crooked cops means he’s going to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Protecting Riva and lusting after her at the same time make for a challenge, one he soon loses when they are in close proximity. Their sex scenes are steamy and intense as they finally get the chance to lose control with each other. The second half of the story is a real nail biter as things come down to the wire. I love how the story played out and Ian and Riva definitely deserve their happy ending! Turn Me Loose is a fast paced, intense and sexy romance and one of my favorite reads this year.
This review has been posted at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
As a new cop, fresh out of the SEALs due to unforeseen circumstances, Ian is driven to succeed. When he catches a young college woman selling drugs in an undercover sting, he offers her a choice – jail time or working with him to catch some of the bigger fish involved in the drug trade.
When Riva Henneman gets caught by Ian she’s humiliated, having thought the spark of attraction she’d felt when they’d made eye contact would mean a date after the deal, not handcuffs. Though her reasons for what she’s caught doing are complicated, she understands the chance Ian is giving her when he offers her the deal to work with him. Once the job is done, she makes good on her promise to herself to do better and becomes a farm to table operator, running a restaurant with the help of disadvantaged youth one step away from their own trouble on the streets.
Riva’s criminal past remains hidden – until Ian shows up one day in her restaurant several years later. A chance circumstance with one of her employees leads to Riva making another deal with Ian – she knows more secrets about the local drug trade than she’d let on before and even though she’s kept herself clean, she’s willing to put it all on the line to help Ian take down the leader. The flare of attraction between them is as strong as ever, one Ian couldn’t and wouldn’t act on when she was his informant and he was in a position of power. Now they are equals, and Riva isn’t that 18-year-old girl anymore. They’ve both had dreams of ‘what if’ in the intervening years, and fate seems to have given them a second chance. As things heat up between them, the danger does too. Will their happy ever after end far too soon?
I definitely did not expect the first meeting between Ian and Riva to turn out the way it did! From the very start of the story, I was hooked, eager to see how things in the present could work out for them based on their past history. I really admired Riva’s character, how she owned up to the choices she’d made and fought to make things better. She has a complicated relationship with her parents, and they play a key role in the plot of the story as Riva has to make choices that will affect them as well.
There’s a high level of tension throughout, both on the suspense side of the story as well as between Riva and Ian. Ian has a lot of personal issues related to getting involved with Riva but he soon comes to realize that a relationship with her is more valuable to him than advancing his career. Still, his drive to solve the case he’s been working on for years that involves the local drug trade and crooked cops means he’s going to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Protecting Riva and lusting after her at the same time make for a challenge, one he soon loses when they are in close proximity. Their sex scenes are steamy and intense as they finally get the chance to lose control with each other. The second half of the story is a real nail biter as things come down to the wire. I love how the story played out and Ian and Riva definitely deserve their happy ending! Turn Me Loose is a fast paced, intense and sexy romance and one of my favorite reads this year.
This review has been posted at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
June 24, 2021
Much as I love Anne Calhoun, this was my least favourite of this series
June 26, 2017
Best of the series. More review to come.
February 3, 2018
REVIEW: Anne Calhoun’s TURN ME LOOSE, Set Me Free
posted in Review by Miss Bates
I hadn’t read a romantic suspense novel in a long time and I wasn’t sure I really wanted to. Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose has a naked-chest-and-dog-tags cover that always turns me off. But, Calhoun: I’d heard a lot of good about her in the Twitterverse et. al. and wanted to give a new-to-me author a fighting chance. Turn Me Loose‘s introduction didn’t cover itself with glory and I came a hair’s-breath away from DNF-ing. But the writing was good, darn good, though I disliked the flash-back routine to the hero and heroine’s past. I recognized its necessity because it made it easier for Calhoun to segue into the present, but those, albeit not significant, parts of the novel never won me over. So, what did?
Let’s begin with a basic premise and characterization. Seven years before the present scene, undercover cop Ian Hawthorn arrested eighteen-year-old college student and petty drug-dealer, Riva Henneman. In exchange for her freedom, Riva agreed to act as Ian’s “confidential informant”. Ian and Riva spent a lot of time together in stake-out and/or drug busts, with Riva going in to dangerous situations as her drug-dealer-self to help Ian and the Lancaster Police Department make arrests. A resentful attraction seethes between them, but ethical lines and power differentials are not crossed. Seven years pass and Ian walks into Riva’s business, a farm-to-table restaurant operation called Oasis, that takes teens and young adults from food-impoverished neighbourhoods and gives them a chance at fair and engaging labour. The food is delicious, Riva is beautiful, and the attraction between them still sizzles and seethes.
When one of Riva’s precious teens from the Teen Cuisine Program is arrested, she and Ian are thrown together again. Because it turns out that the person the LPD is looking for, one making inroads to the community’s drug trade, is Riva’s father, the man who set Riva up in the first place seven years ago and now torments her mother. Once again, Riva and Ian go undercover, in Chicago this time, moving into her parents’ house in an attempt to gather evidence against Rory Henneman. Pretty standard RS stuff: protagonists in danger with time-outs for simmering-to-scorching love scenes (let’s just say that Calhoun’s leave major embers).
Except not. Because Calhoun does a lot more than what meets the blurb. Her romance narrative’s power lies in her characters’ complexity, especially Rory, who is more damaged of the two. Rory had a dream: like older brother Jamie, he wanted to be a SEAL. He was on that journey when a cancer diagnosis stopped him short and killed the dream forever. Being a cop was being second best, but Ian was going to be the best second best he could be … he was at the point in his life when he arrested Riva. Riva’s story is embroiled with her father, the man whose approval and love she craved so much, she would give up personal integrity and her mother, to win it. This is how she ended up being arrested by Officer, now Lieutenant, Ian Hawthorn, seven years ago.
Getting Rory and rescuing her drug-induced mother out from under Rory’s abuse, becomes Riva and Ian’s mission. Except this time, they accomplish something as equals. But navigating the delicacy of their past positions and figuring out how much of themselves to give away make this a challenging task. What of the complication of contending with feelings they’ve squelched, buried, and burned? What of physical attraction and how fraught with implications touch becomes? There they are, in a sociopath’s house, suspended in professional and personal precariousness. How to steer the past, when it had been like this, “his gaze flint against the tinder of her young, impetuous desire”? When Ian remembers “he’d turned her loose, knowing he had no right and no business staying in touch with her without being the worst kind of creeper”?
Calhoun takes on Ian and Riva’s power differential by doing something good romance writers do: equalizing them. Not in a cold, statistical, or protocol-based way, but by stripping them of their “official” status for a personal one. And, like all good romance writers, she does this in two arenas: the bedroom and the conversation. Romance works when the love scenes say what the hero and heroine can’t and dialogue works when the hero and heroine confess their most vulnerable truths, expose themselves emotionally as they do physically in stripping garments. (And THIS is why I’ve never fully enjoyed the closed-bedroom-door romance and never will, even when a beloved romance writer writes it. A kisses-only romance can do this, but closed-bedroom door can’t. Rant over.)
Again, like all great romance writers, Calhoun has to bring her hero and heroine to an elemental level. One of my favourite moments is this one, when Riva finally sees Ian as more than the man who witnessed her moral humiliation (which is interesting in and of itself; for Riva, it was never about power, it was about seeing her morally compromised that made her run as far as she could from Ian). What makes Riva able to love Ian now is that he has finally seen her as morally whole, uncompromised:
With every passing day the complex tangle of emotions Ian raised in her unknotted a little more. He became less her downfall, less her enemy, less her worst nightmare, leaving behind just Ian. Just a man … She let herself see him, the real him, the feral creature who lived, lived through cancer, lived as hard and ferociously as he could … She could handle this. Handle him.
And what of Ian? He can’t see Riva without seeing his own shameful secret: that he wanted her in a way that questioned his ability to be an honest cop, back then, when he first arrested her. Now, he needs her to choose him freely, so that their relationship can move beyond their past, his actions, and his hypocrisy. He’s “turned her loose,” so that she can return to him freely.
I thought Calhoun’s work was the best kind of emotional and moral conflict. I loved Riva and Ian and I came to the end believing in their commitment, fidelity, love, and future. I could’ve done with less of the characters from past books. At times, I thought Calhoun lost control over her prose when she tried to depict that moral and emotional complexity, but I give her full marks for the attempt if not the execution’s consistency. (I noticed there aren’t any new Calhoun books on the horizon and for that I’m truly sorry. I hope Calhoun’s not out there remaking herself in women’s fic guise. I’d like to have three-dimensional RS characterization to look forward to. Second rant over.) With the scandalized Miss Austen (okay, the love scenes are de trop for these two spinsters), I’d say Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose is indicative of “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Anne Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose, sixth in the Alpha Ops series, is published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks. It was released on May 30th, 2017, and may be procured from your preferred vendor. Miss Bates received an e-ARC from St. Martin’s, via Netgalley.
(Miss Bates is aware she “dropped” the third-person conceit. It grew clunky and awkward and forced a formality she no longer felt for her blog. She’s still an impoverished spinster living with her mum, she’s just not an impoverished Regency spinster living with her mum.)
posted in Review by Miss Bates
I hadn’t read a romantic suspense novel in a long time and I wasn’t sure I really wanted to. Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose has a naked-chest-and-dog-tags cover that always turns me off. But, Calhoun: I’d heard a lot of good about her in the Twitterverse et. al. and wanted to give a new-to-me author a fighting chance. Turn Me Loose‘s introduction didn’t cover itself with glory and I came a hair’s-breath away from DNF-ing. But the writing was good, darn good, though I disliked the flash-back routine to the hero and heroine’s past. I recognized its necessity because it made it easier for Calhoun to segue into the present, but those, albeit not significant, parts of the novel never won me over. So, what did?
Let’s begin with a basic premise and characterization. Seven years before the present scene, undercover cop Ian Hawthorn arrested eighteen-year-old college student and petty drug-dealer, Riva Henneman. In exchange for her freedom, Riva agreed to act as Ian’s “confidential informant”. Ian and Riva spent a lot of time together in stake-out and/or drug busts, with Riva going in to dangerous situations as her drug-dealer-self to help Ian and the Lancaster Police Department make arrests. A resentful attraction seethes between them, but ethical lines and power differentials are not crossed. Seven years pass and Ian walks into Riva’s business, a farm-to-table restaurant operation called Oasis, that takes teens and young adults from food-impoverished neighbourhoods and gives them a chance at fair and engaging labour. The food is delicious, Riva is beautiful, and the attraction between them still sizzles and seethes.
When one of Riva’s precious teens from the Teen Cuisine Program is arrested, she and Ian are thrown together again. Because it turns out that the person the LPD is looking for, one making inroads to the community’s drug trade, is Riva’s father, the man who set Riva up in the first place seven years ago and now torments her mother. Once again, Riva and Ian go undercover, in Chicago this time, moving into her parents’ house in an attempt to gather evidence against Rory Henneman. Pretty standard RS stuff: protagonists in danger with time-outs for simmering-to-scorching love scenes (let’s just say that Calhoun’s leave major embers).
Except not. Because Calhoun does a lot more than what meets the blurb. Her romance narrative’s power lies in her characters’ complexity, especially Rory, who is more damaged of the two. Rory had a dream: like older brother Jamie, he wanted to be a SEAL. He was on that journey when a cancer diagnosis stopped him short and killed the dream forever. Being a cop was being second best, but Ian was going to be the best second best he could be … he was at the point in his life when he arrested Riva. Riva’s story is embroiled with her father, the man whose approval and love she craved so much, she would give up personal integrity and her mother, to win it. This is how she ended up being arrested by Officer, now Lieutenant, Ian Hawthorn, seven years ago.
Getting Rory and rescuing her drug-induced mother out from under Rory’s abuse, becomes Riva and Ian’s mission. Except this time, they accomplish something as equals. But navigating the delicacy of their past positions and figuring out how much of themselves to give away make this a challenging task. What of the complication of contending with feelings they’ve squelched, buried, and burned? What of physical attraction and how fraught with implications touch becomes? There they are, in a sociopath’s house, suspended in professional and personal precariousness. How to steer the past, when it had been like this, “his gaze flint against the tinder of her young, impetuous desire”? When Ian remembers “he’d turned her loose, knowing he had no right and no business staying in touch with her without being the worst kind of creeper”?
Calhoun takes on Ian and Riva’s power differential by doing something good romance writers do: equalizing them. Not in a cold, statistical, or protocol-based way, but by stripping them of their “official” status for a personal one. And, like all good romance writers, she does this in two arenas: the bedroom and the conversation. Romance works when the love scenes say what the hero and heroine can’t and dialogue works when the hero and heroine confess their most vulnerable truths, expose themselves emotionally as they do physically in stripping garments. (And THIS is why I’ve never fully enjoyed the closed-bedroom-door romance and never will, even when a beloved romance writer writes it. A kisses-only romance can do this, but closed-bedroom door can’t. Rant over.)
Again, like all great romance writers, Calhoun has to bring her hero and heroine to an elemental level. One of my favourite moments is this one, when Riva finally sees Ian as more than the man who witnessed her moral humiliation (which is interesting in and of itself; for Riva, it was never about power, it was about seeing her morally compromised that made her run as far as she could from Ian). What makes Riva able to love Ian now is that he has finally seen her as morally whole, uncompromised:
With every passing day the complex tangle of emotions Ian raised in her unknotted a little more. He became less her downfall, less her enemy, less her worst nightmare, leaving behind just Ian. Just a man … She let herself see him, the real him, the feral creature who lived, lived through cancer, lived as hard and ferociously as he could … She could handle this. Handle him.
And what of Ian? He can’t see Riva without seeing his own shameful secret: that he wanted her in a way that questioned his ability to be an honest cop, back then, when he first arrested her. Now, he needs her to choose him freely, so that their relationship can move beyond their past, his actions, and his hypocrisy. He’s “turned her loose,” so that she can return to him freely.
I thought Calhoun’s work was the best kind of emotional and moral conflict. I loved Riva and Ian and I came to the end believing in their commitment, fidelity, love, and future. I could’ve done with less of the characters from past books. At times, I thought Calhoun lost control over her prose when she tried to depict that moral and emotional complexity, but I give her full marks for the attempt if not the execution’s consistency. (I noticed there aren’t any new Calhoun books on the horizon and for that I’m truly sorry. I hope Calhoun’s not out there remaking herself in women’s fic guise. I’d like to have three-dimensional RS characterization to look forward to. Second rant over.) With the scandalized Miss Austen (okay, the love scenes are de trop for these two spinsters), I’d say Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose is indicative of “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Anne Calhoun’s Turn Me Loose, sixth in the Alpha Ops series, is published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks. It was released on May 30th, 2017, and may be procured from your preferred vendor. Miss Bates received an e-ARC from St. Martin’s, via Netgalley.
(Miss Bates is aware she “dropped” the third-person conceit. It grew clunky and awkward and forced a formality she no longer felt for her blog. She’s still an impoverished spinster living with her mum, she’s just not an impoverished Regency spinster living with her mum.)
June 4, 2017
3.5 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 30, 2017
CRIMES OF PASSION
When she was on the verge of adulthood, Riva Henneman committed a crime and got caught red-handed. Luckily, she was busted by a HOT young cop...who also had a big heart. A one-time SEAL candidate, Officer Ian Hawthorn knew how it felt to have your dreams derailed. So he gave Riva a choice: face prison time or work for him as a confidential informant. But even a get-out-of-jail-free card comes with a cost. . .
Years later, Ian still remembers beautiful, innocent Riva--and the smoldering attraction they shared but both tried to ignore. Will they have a second chance, now that they're back in each other's lives? Riva's work with inner-city children has led to a surprise run-in with Ian, who has his own agenda--one that could put them both in grave danger. Is their desire worth the risk this time?
The high octane suspense and super sizzling romance continues with Turn Me Loose, the third novel in the Alpha Ops series by Anne Calhoun.
••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--TURN ME LOOSE is the sixth installment in Anne Calhoun’s contemporary, adult ALPHA OPS erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of law enforcement personnel most of whom are current or former Navy SEALs and Special Ops agents. This is Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn, and Riva Henneman’s story line. TURN ME LOOSE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Riva and Ian) TURN ME LOOSE follows the second chance, building relationship between under cover police Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn, and teen advisor Riva Henneman. Seven years earlier, a then eighteen year old Riva Henneman found herself on the wrong side of the law. Rather than do time in jail, Riva agreed to work undercover as a confidential informant for police officer Ian Hawthorn. Fast forward to present day, where Riva will come face to face with her past, a past looking for help to take down the people responsible for the latest influx of drug wars and dirty cops. What ensues is the building but forbidden romance between Riva and Ian, and our couple’s under cover operation to take down the man who has destroyed too many lives.
TURN ME LOOSE has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many coworkers and fellow law enforcement agents of our story line hero, and a handful of teens who battle temptation at every turn. We are also reintroduced to most of the previous story line couples by way of cameo appearances at the end of the story.
The world building looks at the undercover operation to take down a suspected drug dealer; a well known and respected businessman but a supplier of illegal narcotics whose reach goes beyond the street gangs and into organized crime and dirty cops.
The relationship between Riva and Ian is one of second chances. The couple’s attraction to one another began seven years earlier but Ian knew that to get involved with a confidential informant would mean professional suicide for an undercover cop. An accidental meeting between Ian and his former CI finds our hero hoping for a second chance with the woman he claims has stolen his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and spicy without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
TURN ME LOOSE is my favorite installment of Anne Calhoun’s ALPHA OPS series. It is a story of romantic suspense but for all intents and purposes, the suspense was a bit lacking as the reader is aware of the who, what and why. TURN ME LOOSE is a fated tale of one woman’s struggle for acceptance, and one’s man battle with himself, and control of the unknown. The premise is engaging; the characters are flawed and challenging.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 30, 2017
CRIMES OF PASSION
When she was on the verge of adulthood, Riva Henneman committed a crime and got caught red-handed. Luckily, she was busted by a HOT young cop...who also had a big heart. A one-time SEAL candidate, Officer Ian Hawthorn knew how it felt to have your dreams derailed. So he gave Riva a choice: face prison time or work for him as a confidential informant. But even a get-out-of-jail-free card comes with a cost. . .
Years later, Ian still remembers beautiful, innocent Riva--and the smoldering attraction they shared but both tried to ignore. Will they have a second chance, now that they're back in each other's lives? Riva's work with inner-city children has led to a surprise run-in with Ian, who has his own agenda--one that could put them both in grave danger. Is their desire worth the risk this time?
The high octane suspense and super sizzling romance continues with Turn Me Loose, the third novel in the Alpha Ops series by Anne Calhoun.
••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--TURN ME LOOSE is the sixth installment in Anne Calhoun’s contemporary, adult ALPHA OPS erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of law enforcement personnel most of whom are current or former Navy SEALs and Special Ops agents. This is Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn, and Riva Henneman’s story line. TURN ME LOOSE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Riva and Ian) TURN ME LOOSE follows the second chance, building relationship between under cover police Lieutenant Ian Hawthorn, and teen advisor Riva Henneman. Seven years earlier, a then eighteen year old Riva Henneman found herself on the wrong side of the law. Rather than do time in jail, Riva agreed to work undercover as a confidential informant for police officer Ian Hawthorn. Fast forward to present day, where Riva will come face to face with her past, a past looking for help to take down the people responsible for the latest influx of drug wars and dirty cops. What ensues is the building but forbidden romance between Riva and Ian, and our couple’s under cover operation to take down the man who has destroyed too many lives.
TURN ME LOOSE has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many coworkers and fellow law enforcement agents of our story line hero, and a handful of teens who battle temptation at every turn. We are also reintroduced to most of the previous story line couples by way of cameo appearances at the end of the story.
The world building looks at the undercover operation to take down a suspected drug dealer; a well known and respected businessman but a supplier of illegal narcotics whose reach goes beyond the street gangs and into organized crime and dirty cops.
The relationship between Riva and Ian is one of second chances. The couple’s attraction to one another began seven years earlier but Ian knew that to get involved with a confidential informant would mean professional suicide for an undercover cop. An accidental meeting between Ian and his former CI finds our hero hoping for a second chance with the woman he claims has stolen his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and spicy without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
TURN ME LOOSE is my favorite installment of Anne Calhoun’s ALPHA OPS series. It is a story of romantic suspense but for all intents and purposes, the suspense was a bit lacking as the reader is aware of the who, what and why. TURN ME LOOSE is a fated tale of one woman’s struggle for acceptance, and one’s man battle with himself, and control of the unknown. The premise is engaging; the characters are flawed and challenging.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
June 12, 2017
At 19, Riva Heneman locked eyes with a grad student across a crowded cafe. Their chemistry was instant. With the intent of taking him home, Riva goes to talk to him, but is bitterly disappointed when all he wants is to buy drugs from her. With the tension between them burning hot, she makes the deal. Only to find herself in a pair of handcuffs- and not the fluffy, fun kind.
Years later, Riva has turned her life around, and is on the straight and narrow. With a farm and a restaurant that teaches underprivileged youths, she's a shining example of a good citizen. But she's never forgotten the simmering tension between her and the undercover cop that she became a criminal informant for.
When her protege Isaiah is arrested, Ian and Riva's paths cross again. She's no longer his informant and the balance of power between them has evened out. But to get Isaiah off the hook, she's going to have to put her life on the line again , and bring down the drug lords she once worked for. And of course, Ian isn't going to let her do that alone.
I loved the beginning of this book. The opening, with the tension between Riva and Ian in the coffee shop before he arrests her had me hooked from page one.
When we skip to present day and she's turned her life around and is doing so much for these kids that work in her restaurant, I liked her even more. The way the two MC's reconnected was different and natural and I was so into it that I even tweeted about how much I was enjoying it.
And then it all went downhill. The entire middle of this book is just...nothing exciting. It's basically just a search for a laptop that seemed to get forgotten for 90% of their day, only to be remembered at the last minute. And them organizing a dinner party that never actually happened.
There was some great character building of Riva's parents that I enjoyed, but there was also a lot of oooh there's all this old chemistry between us but he arrested and used me, so we can never be together. Like ALOT of it. I never really felt that there was a time where they both went 'yep we're all in, let's do this'. We just got a I love you, I love you too at around the 97% mark. Which was just so anticlimactic. I wanted to see them together as a proper couple! But I got none of that.
And speaking of anticlimactic, the ending....where was it? *spoiler* Yeah there was a scene where she saved him/he saved her and the baddie is brought down, and hey, that laptop magically appears! But it was just not big enough for me. It was over and done with in probably 500 words. I kept expecting a twist or for the baddie to pop back up or just, SOMETHING! But nope, that was it. And even after that, they still didn't fall into each other's arms and profess their love.
Also of note, this is book 6 in a series. I didn't know that going in, but to the authors credit, it didn't matter. Turn me Loose stood on its own two feet, and while I could tell there were other characters of the series getting updated, it didn't bother me.
So overall, while there was a really strong beginning and some really great characters, the middle and ending fell seriously flat for me.
C
Years later, Riva has turned her life around, and is on the straight and narrow. With a farm and a restaurant that teaches underprivileged youths, she's a shining example of a good citizen. But she's never forgotten the simmering tension between her and the undercover cop that she became a criminal informant for.
When her protege Isaiah is arrested, Ian and Riva's paths cross again. She's no longer his informant and the balance of power between them has evened out. But to get Isaiah off the hook, she's going to have to put her life on the line again , and bring down the drug lords she once worked for. And of course, Ian isn't going to let her do that alone.
I loved the beginning of this book. The opening, with the tension between Riva and Ian in the coffee shop before he arrests her had me hooked from page one.
When we skip to present day and she's turned her life around and is doing so much for these kids that work in her restaurant, I liked her even more. The way the two MC's reconnected was different and natural and I was so into it that I even tweeted about how much I was enjoying it.
And then it all went downhill. The entire middle of this book is just...nothing exciting. It's basically just a search for a laptop that seemed to get forgotten for 90% of their day, only to be remembered at the last minute. And them organizing a dinner party that never actually happened.
There was some great character building of Riva's parents that I enjoyed, but there was also a lot of oooh there's all this old chemistry between us but he arrested and used me, so we can never be together. Like ALOT of it. I never really felt that there was a time where they both went 'yep we're all in, let's do this'. We just got a I love you, I love you too at around the 97% mark. Which was just so anticlimactic. I wanted to see them together as a proper couple! But I got none of that.
And speaking of anticlimactic, the ending....where was it? *spoiler* Yeah there was a scene where she saved him/he saved her and the baddie is brought down, and hey, that laptop magically appears! But it was just not big enough for me. It was over and done with in probably 500 words. I kept expecting a twist or for the baddie to pop back up or just, SOMETHING! But nope, that was it. And even after that, they still didn't fall into each other's arms and profess their love.
Also of note, this is book 6 in a series. I didn't know that going in, but to the authors credit, it didn't matter. Turn me Loose stood on its own two feet, and while I could tell there were other characters of the series getting updated, it didn't bother me.
So overall, while there was a really strong beginning and some really great characters, the middle and ending fell seriously flat for me.
C
May 29, 2017
***ARC Provided by St. Martin's Press***
Riva and Ian have an amazing chemistry, one that both of them felt immediately and neither acted on when he was a cop and she was his confidential informant. For understandable reasons. This past also makes their present, including a surprise encounter, a little difficult to navigate. The attraction is there, and the passion, but both feel that involvement with the other will result in upheaval to their lives and everything that they have each worked for.
It's then up to the author to convince the reader that the risks will be worth it. And, Anne Calhoun convinced me of their passion, their connection, and the idea that neither of them would be willing to let this pass them again.
I liked the story ARC, the passion, their connection, and the secondary characters. That said, I was not entirely sure that the consequences of their relationship now, years after she was no longer his informant, we as dire as both were convinced, or as dire as the author wanted us to believe. Because of this, the parts focused on this as the reason they could not be together didn't totally work for me. But, overall I believed in their relationship and I thought it worked well.
I am looking forward to other stories by this author and I recommend this title.
Riva and Ian have an amazing chemistry, one that both of them felt immediately and neither acted on when he was a cop and she was his confidential informant. For understandable reasons. This past also makes their present, including a surprise encounter, a little difficult to navigate. The attraction is there, and the passion, but both feel that involvement with the other will result in upheaval to their lives and everything that they have each worked for.
It's then up to the author to convince the reader that the risks will be worth it. And, Anne Calhoun convinced me of their passion, their connection, and the idea that neither of them would be willing to let this pass them again.
I liked the story ARC, the passion, their connection, and the secondary characters. That said, I was not entirely sure that the consequences of their relationship now, years after she was no longer his informant, we as dire as both were convinced, or as dire as the author wanted us to believe. Because of this, the parts focused on this as the reason they could not be together didn't totally work for me. But, overall I believed in their relationship and I thought it worked well.
I am looking forward to other stories by this author and I recommend this title.
June 27, 2017
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
May 25, 2017
I really enjoyed this one! These were great characters and the writing was excellent. I liked how the author gave us bits and pieces of the history between Ian and Riva and how it's affecting their relationship present day. There isn't as much suspense and action in this one as there was in some of the prior books but it has enough to keep the story interesting. Definitely a book I'm recommending to everyone.
May 30, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/05/review-...
Favorite Quote: “One of these days you’re going to say my name, and you’re going to say please, and then you’re not going to be able to say anything at all.”
Awkward can’t even begin to describe this couple’s relationship. Anne Calhoun brings the heat when she reconnects Riva Henneman with the man she fell in love with seven years ago. Ian Hawthorne. The only problem is he was the undercover cop who busted her for selling drugs on the local college campus and then blackmailed her into becoming his CI.
Riva ends up leaving college after her arrest and now manages a farm to kitchen restaurant that teaches urban kids how to eat and cook healthier. She is shocked when Ian walks through her door. When she learns he has arrested one of her kids and wants to use him like he used her, she jumps in and offers to give Ian the bust of a lifetime. The top man behind the drug ring.
Ian Hawthorne knows what it’s like to have his dreams derailed. A former navy seal candidate sidelined by cancer, he is now a Lieutenant in the Lancaster PD and up for a promotion. The guilt he feels over his actions concerning Riva seven years ago rides him hard. He knows he strong armed her into being his CI and put her in danger in order to boost his own career. He also fell in love with her but knew the power dynamics were all wrong and he refused to lose his job over her.
She’d always been his, the power he had over her as close to owning another human being as possible, and therefore never his. Riva had never chosen him.
Now seven years later, he’s surprised to see her and even more shocked when he learns she’d held out on him. He agrees to her terms, only this time they will go undercover together. And when he gets what he needs, he will once again have to turn her loose and this time hope she comes back to him.
Turn Me Loose is the 6th book in Anne Calhoun’s Alpha Ops series and continues with the drug running/corrupt law enforcement subplot from book five-Going Deep. Each book can be read comfortably as a standalone though there is character and scene cross over from previous books. I found this one more balanced and emotionally tight then the last book. Well written with an intriguing suspenseful plotline and enlightening dialogue; it’s the main protagonists and their journey of growth and second chances that is the main theme of the story. Calhoun works her magic in creating two characters whose inability to act on their feelings for one another is more than a just stubbornness or a few simple issues to overcome. Calhoun interjects pieces of their past into the story, showing readers exactly what happened and where they stand now.
“Would it make you feel better if I crossed that line? Give you plausible deniability?”
Riva Henneman learned at an early age to never show fear and to do as her father bid her to do. When she was arrested and her father washed his hands of her, she handled it all on her own. A born protector, Riva sacrifices herself again in order to help one of her kids, Riva will have to go back under Ian’s thumb again which brings to the surface all the resentment and distrust she has harbored towards him since the arrest. Though she understood and agreed with the arrest, she freely admits she was breaking the law, she chafed at the leash he put on her and the subservient role she was forced to play.
He pointed, she walked. He insisted, she gave in. He judged, she swallowed her pride. Seven years ago he held all the power in his hand, because helping him was the only thing that stood between her and prison. She’d resented him with every cell in her body, and wanted him just as badly.
Ian Hawthorne was raised in a law abiding family. A police officer with a chip on his shoulder, he used what and who he had to as he made his way up the chain of command. Older and wiser, he is a mess of emotions when he and Riva connect again. He’s thrilled to see her again, their attraction rearing it’s head as if they had never parted, but angry she kept something this important from him. He feels betrayed though he knows deep down he’s reacting more from the heart than the head.
The lie of omission stung more fiercely than it should have, and not just because she withheld critical information about known illegal activities. She’s withheld a key piece of information about herself. […] He’d taken care of her and she’d lied to him.
The romance is deliciously slow-burning and brimming with angst and anger as Ian and Riva delightfully poke and jab at one another in attempts to hide their fear and longing. The chemistry smolders heavy as they each struggle to deal with the changes in their relationship. It’s a strong part of the storyline and complements the conflict It was very easy to get caught up in the emotional currents of these two lovers. Calhoun gives this couple plenty of time to work on their issues; attempting to heal and move on from their past relationship and dealing with the imperfect power balance that still exists. Snark tinged humor and lushly satisfying sexual scenes help to offset the razor sharp edge of tension riding this couple and give them a push when they got a little mired down in their thoughts.
“You have to call me Ian. Say my name.”
The only sounds in the apartment were the soft hum of the ventilation system and her heart pounding in her ears. Their strange, strained relationship was so intimate in so many ways, but she’d never used his first name. “Ian.”
“Again.”
Her head snapped up. “Ian.”
“Again.”
“IAN.”
“Good. Now use it conversationally.”
“Fuck you, Ian.”
[…]
“Wow That sounds different when I use your name. Lieutenant Hawthorne has the right to coerce. Ian doesn’t.”
Though we aren’t inundated with a lot of action in terms of the main conflict, we already know who the villain is, Calhoun still ratchets up the tension and intrigue as Ian and Riva work to bring down a drug kingpin. One whose connections to Riva spell danger and possible death to more than just these two if Ian’s cover is blown. I enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from previous books and learning of some possibly new couple hookups in future books.
Once again Calhoun writes a romance that digs deep into your heart, creating a relationship between you and the couple, making the outcome personal. Turn Me Loose is a must read for those who love their romances sexy, dark, and uncertain.
Grade: B
Favorite Quote: “One of these days you’re going to say my name, and you’re going to say please, and then you’re not going to be able to say anything at all.”
Awkward can’t even begin to describe this couple’s relationship. Anne Calhoun brings the heat when she reconnects Riva Henneman with the man she fell in love with seven years ago. Ian Hawthorne. The only problem is he was the undercover cop who busted her for selling drugs on the local college campus and then blackmailed her into becoming his CI.
Riva ends up leaving college after her arrest and now manages a farm to kitchen restaurant that teaches urban kids how to eat and cook healthier. She is shocked when Ian walks through her door. When she learns he has arrested one of her kids and wants to use him like he used her, she jumps in and offers to give Ian the bust of a lifetime. The top man behind the drug ring.
Ian Hawthorne knows what it’s like to have his dreams derailed. A former navy seal candidate sidelined by cancer, he is now a Lieutenant in the Lancaster PD and up for a promotion. The guilt he feels over his actions concerning Riva seven years ago rides him hard. He knows he strong armed her into being his CI and put her in danger in order to boost his own career. He also fell in love with her but knew the power dynamics were all wrong and he refused to lose his job over her.
She’d always been his, the power he had over her as close to owning another human being as possible, and therefore never his. Riva had never chosen him.
Now seven years later, he’s surprised to see her and even more shocked when he learns she’d held out on him. He agrees to her terms, only this time they will go undercover together. And when he gets what he needs, he will once again have to turn her loose and this time hope she comes back to him.
Turn Me Loose is the 6th book in Anne Calhoun’s Alpha Ops series and continues with the drug running/corrupt law enforcement subplot from book five-Going Deep. Each book can be read comfortably as a standalone though there is character and scene cross over from previous books. I found this one more balanced and emotionally tight then the last book. Well written with an intriguing suspenseful plotline and enlightening dialogue; it’s the main protagonists and their journey of growth and second chances that is the main theme of the story. Calhoun works her magic in creating two characters whose inability to act on their feelings for one another is more than a just stubbornness or a few simple issues to overcome. Calhoun interjects pieces of their past into the story, showing readers exactly what happened and where they stand now.
“Would it make you feel better if I crossed that line? Give you plausible deniability?”
Riva Henneman learned at an early age to never show fear and to do as her father bid her to do. When she was arrested and her father washed his hands of her, she handled it all on her own. A born protector, Riva sacrifices herself again in order to help one of her kids, Riva will have to go back under Ian’s thumb again which brings to the surface all the resentment and distrust she has harbored towards him since the arrest. Though she understood and agreed with the arrest, she freely admits she was breaking the law, she chafed at the leash he put on her and the subservient role she was forced to play.
He pointed, she walked. He insisted, she gave in. He judged, she swallowed her pride. Seven years ago he held all the power in his hand, because helping him was the only thing that stood between her and prison. She’d resented him with every cell in her body, and wanted him just as badly.
Ian Hawthorne was raised in a law abiding family. A police officer with a chip on his shoulder, he used what and who he had to as he made his way up the chain of command. Older and wiser, he is a mess of emotions when he and Riva connect again. He’s thrilled to see her again, their attraction rearing it’s head as if they had never parted, but angry she kept something this important from him. He feels betrayed though he knows deep down he’s reacting more from the heart than the head.
The lie of omission stung more fiercely than it should have, and not just because she withheld critical information about known illegal activities. She’s withheld a key piece of information about herself. […] He’d taken care of her and she’d lied to him.
The romance is deliciously slow-burning and brimming with angst and anger as Ian and Riva delightfully poke and jab at one another in attempts to hide their fear and longing. The chemistry smolders heavy as they each struggle to deal with the changes in their relationship. It’s a strong part of the storyline and complements the conflict It was very easy to get caught up in the emotional currents of these two lovers. Calhoun gives this couple plenty of time to work on their issues; attempting to heal and move on from their past relationship and dealing with the imperfect power balance that still exists. Snark tinged humor and lushly satisfying sexual scenes help to offset the razor sharp edge of tension riding this couple and give them a push when they got a little mired down in their thoughts.
“You have to call me Ian. Say my name.”
The only sounds in the apartment were the soft hum of the ventilation system and her heart pounding in her ears. Their strange, strained relationship was so intimate in so many ways, but she’d never used his first name. “Ian.”
“Again.”
Her head snapped up. “Ian.”
“Again.”
“IAN.”
“Good. Now use it conversationally.”
“Fuck you, Ian.”
[…]
“Wow That sounds different when I use your name. Lieutenant Hawthorne has the right to coerce. Ian doesn’t.”
Though we aren’t inundated with a lot of action in terms of the main conflict, we already know who the villain is, Calhoun still ratchets up the tension and intrigue as Ian and Riva work to bring down a drug kingpin. One whose connections to Riva spell danger and possible death to more than just these two if Ian’s cover is blown. I enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from previous books and learning of some possibly new couple hookups in future books.
Once again Calhoun writes a romance that digs deep into your heart, creating a relationship between you and the couple, making the outcome personal. Turn Me Loose is a must read for those who love their romances sexy, dark, and uncertain.
Grade: B
July 16, 2017
Gotta love a story where the MC only get together when there's no imbalance of power between them.
July 5, 2017
This is a series not to be missed. In the latest book, Ms. Calhoun gives Ian Hawthorn his book. The quiet and diligent cop mentioned in a few of the previous books is hot on the tail of a drug lord. Trying to figure out how all the drugs are coming into his city, his path once again crosses Riva Henneman's. The last time Riva and Ian were together, it was not good. They never dated because Ian used Riva as his CI to get what he wanted to close a case. Riva was ruthlessly placed over a barrel. To say their parting was poor is an understatement.
There is more than meets the eye in this book. Ms. Calhoun does an excellent job of showing how everyone has a story with a possible painful past. The ties of blood sometimes lead people down the wrong path. Sometimes it takes people to a place they do not want to go. The sheer cruelty and negligence bestowed upon family members in this book is jaw dropping. What is worse is that it is all very plausible in real life. What Ms. Calhoun demonstrations blow by painful blow shows up in newspapers, usually with an end result of death. It is sad to see brothers taking advantage of each other just as it is sad to see the toll of domestic violence. Ms. Calhoun does a lovely job of showing how it could happen and how people are trapped. With a bit of support and a helping hand, maybe people can make a difference. Riva is the one who wants to make that difference and break the cycle.
Ian's history is no walk in the park either. The disappointments he's experienced could have crushed him and turned him into a drug or alcohol abuser. It's nice to see how someone can still move on, even after their dreams have been destroyed. Pairing Riva and Ian up, two people whose experienced disappointment works out quite well. This kind of enemy turned to lover theme works because of their chemistry. That slightly forbidden fruit the two of them danced about the first time they met carries on into the second time they meet. Sometimes, it just takes a bit longer for the right person to be at the right time.
This story moves at a good pace. Sometimes it slows just a little bit and drags. Specifically when Riva is with her father, it seems to drag out the final reveal. This does give the story the suspense and build up to the final showdown. Overall, this is an enjoyable story and a lovely addition to the series. Recommended to romantic suspense readers.
*provided by NetGalley
There is more than meets the eye in this book. Ms. Calhoun does an excellent job of showing how everyone has a story with a possible painful past. The ties of blood sometimes lead people down the wrong path. Sometimes it takes people to a place they do not want to go. The sheer cruelty and negligence bestowed upon family members in this book is jaw dropping. What is worse is that it is all very plausible in real life. What Ms. Calhoun demonstrations blow by painful blow shows up in newspapers, usually with an end result of death. It is sad to see brothers taking advantage of each other just as it is sad to see the toll of domestic violence. Ms. Calhoun does a lovely job of showing how it could happen and how people are trapped. With a bit of support and a helping hand, maybe people can make a difference. Riva is the one who wants to make that difference and break the cycle.
Ian's history is no walk in the park either. The disappointments he's experienced could have crushed him and turned him into a drug or alcohol abuser. It's nice to see how someone can still move on, even after their dreams have been destroyed. Pairing Riva and Ian up, two people whose experienced disappointment works out quite well. This kind of enemy turned to lover theme works because of their chemistry. That slightly forbidden fruit the two of them danced about the first time they met carries on into the second time they meet. Sometimes, it just takes a bit longer for the right person to be at the right time.
This story moves at a good pace. Sometimes it slows just a little bit and drags. Specifically when Riva is with her father, it seems to drag out the final reveal. This does give the story the suspense and build up to the final showdown. Overall, this is an enjoyable story and a lovely addition to the series. Recommended to romantic suspense readers.
*provided by NetGalley
July 14, 2017
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Background: Riva was arrested when she was 18 for being the campus drug seller. Ian arrested her and they worked together as PD/informant. There was an instant unspoken attraction for both that was never addressed. Ian is pretty much a by the book kind of guy.
Fast forward to today: Riva runs a farm/restaurant and hires kids who've made mistakes and/or need help getting their lives on track. Ian is a rising star in the PD. Riva offers up her father, THE drug dealer, in exchange for saving one of the kids who works for her. Riva and Ian are back working together and the attraction is still there.
I enjoy Anne Calhoun's writing and her MCs. Don't get me started on how much I love "Liberating Lacy". Anyway while neither Riva or Ian does anything wrong individually or together, there was just "something" missing in the relationship and their chemistry. They went years without seeing or speaking to each other and as soon as they're "working" together again the relationship quickly progresses. It's probably more me than the writer but I didn't feel "IT" and felt like I missed a chapter or two in the development of the story and relationship.
That said I still give Anne Calhoun the benefit of the doubt and will try anything from her.
Background: Riva was arrested when she was 18 for being the campus drug seller. Ian arrested her and they worked together as PD/informant. There was an instant unspoken attraction for both that was never addressed. Ian is pretty much a by the book kind of guy.
Fast forward to today: Riva runs a farm/restaurant and hires kids who've made mistakes and/or need help getting their lives on track. Ian is a rising star in the PD. Riva offers up her father, THE drug dealer, in exchange for saving one of the kids who works for her. Riva and Ian are back working together and the attraction is still there.
I enjoy Anne Calhoun's writing and her MCs. Don't get me started on how much I love "Liberating Lacy". Anyway while neither Riva or Ian does anything wrong individually or together, there was just "something" missing in the relationship and their chemistry. They went years without seeing or speaking to each other and as soon as they're "working" together again the relationship quickly progresses. It's probably more me than the writer but I didn't feel "IT" and felt like I missed a chapter or two in the development of the story and relationship.
That said I still give Anne Calhoun the benefit of the doubt and will try anything from her.
May 24, 2017
When Detective Ian Hawthorn runs into and old acquaintance, Riva Henneman doesn't see it that way and is not happy. She runs her own restaurant now, seven years previously Ian was a rookie cop and he busted Riva who was a college student at the time for selling drugs. She now owns her own restaurant, and she works with inner-city children to give them hope and a chance for a better future. And to save one of her fledglings from being arrested she agrees to help Ian by naming the drug rings leader. He then makes plans to finally get his man, but must ask for Riva's help once again.
There's tension between Ian and Riva as they plot their sting, the attraction is strong and they fight against it. The story has flashbacks which tell us a lot about their previous relationship, and show us how different they both had become. It's a thriller but it's pretty low on the drama and suspense ratings, but still an enjoyable story.
There's tension between Ian and Riva as they plot their sting, the attraction is strong and they fight against it. The story has flashbacks which tell us a lot about their previous relationship, and show us how different they both had become. It's a thriller but it's pretty low on the drama and suspense ratings, but still an enjoyable story.
April 27, 2018
Ian and Riva had one heck of a slow burn and when they finally get together..definitely fireworks! The suspense part of the story kept me on the edge of my seat in anticipation of the proverbial shit hitting the fan moment, but even I wasn’t expecting what Riva’s horrid excuse for a parent required of Ian!
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed the ride! Ian and Riva’s story was a well-written plot loaded with a fantastic second chance...at friendship and romance, intelligent characters who did adulting quite well, minimal angst, and a tension-filled, off the charts attraction that was swoon worthy! Now I’m super curious about the rest of the guys and girls mentioned!
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed the ride! Ian and Riva’s story was a well-written plot loaded with a fantastic second chance...at friendship and romance, intelligent characters who did adulting quite well, minimal angst, and a tension-filled, off the charts attraction that was swoon worthy! Now I’m super curious about the rest of the guys and girls mentioned!
May 23, 2017
Turn me Loose by Anne Calhoun was a great book. I read this one a couple of weeks ago and I still recall the storyline and many details which is rare when you read as many books as I do. It was kind of sad how he was with her at first especially since their chemistry was so strong, but a good second chance love story is a great way to make up for it. I appreciate the opportunity to read the book and Thank Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
May 31, 2017
This is a fast paced, suspense filled romance about a former CI and the Police officer that once arrested her.
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I found myself very drawn into Riva's and Ian's past interactions and where their reunion might take them. Both characters are well rounded and the connection between them is sizzling. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves suspense romance and a story with an independent female lead and a sensitive alpha.
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I found myself very drawn into Riva's and Ian's past interactions and where their reunion might take them. Both characters are well rounded and the connection between them is sizzling. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves suspense romance and a story with an independent female lead and a sensitive alpha.
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