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Sexy

Sexy/Dangerous: A Sizzling Romantic Suspense Novel Where Passion Is the Deadliest Weapon

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Wearing her shades, a black Stetson, and snakeskin cowboy boots, security agent Maxine "Max" Blake is the baddest thing walking. Ex-marine, ex-cop, and a whole lotta 'tude, Max doesn't have time for anything but her job. Her latest to protect Dr. Adam Gary. Her he doesn't want her there. Adam wants to focus on his work, not to be distracted by this tall, sexy woman. A foiled kidnapping attempt may have forced him to take an undercover agent into his household, but no one said anything about the agent being a woman, or that she'd be beautiful, or that she came with two monster rottweilers. How is he supposed to concentrate on his top-secret project that could revolutionize the world when all he can think about is her smooth, coffee-colored skin and those long, lean legs? But as danger nips at their heels, love may be a distraction neither of them will live to enjoy . . .

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

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1317 people want to read

About the author

Beverly Jenkins

71 books4,839 followers
Beverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance.

She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.

Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase. 

To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net

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5 stars
897 (60%)
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400 (27%)
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136 (9%)
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23 (1%)
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16 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for Darla.
332 reviews32 followers
July 5, 2014
Once again, Beverly Jenkins has made me totally appreciate her talent and the stories she weaves together. I enjoyed this book greatly, I loved Max and Adam. Max was the bada** Marine, special ops, security, etc., etc. I loved her attitude, how laid back she was and the fact that she had a kicka** career. I think it is awesome when books feature strong women in non-traditional roles AND holding their own. I loved Max's preference for boots and cowboy hats, being a Texas girl myself, I could appreciate that. I really loved her two Rottweilers Ruby and Ossie (cutest names for a couple of dogs and very appropriate when you think of where those names come from)! Dr. Adam Gary was cool too, the fact he was a sexy lab rat with a sense of humor was nice. I enjoyed reading these two interact and witnessing the attraction grow between them. I liked how BJ continues to incorporate characters from previous books, like Max is the great, great(maybe one more great) grand-daughter of both Loreli and Grace who we've met before. That doesn't mean you have to read those books before this, I haven't read Loreli's book yet, but it was a nice touch all the same. I suggest this book to anyone who is a fan already, or to someone who enjoys reading about a take charge, tough as nails SISTA, who manages to not have a ghetto or nasty attitude and is still feminine.
Profile Image for Jodi.
1,788 reviews
August 20, 2020
My first Beverly Jenkins book and oh boy it was sexy/dangerous. Mel is tough, sexy, strong willed, take no prisoners my kind of women, and she didn't lose herself for a man. In fact she walked away from nerdy, sexy scientist Adam Gary. Loved the ex lovers of Mel. Loved the fast pace, danger, lethal weapons, snarky banter and those oh so sweet dogs, Ossie and Ruby. This was a great fast read.
Profile Image for Barbie Pomales.
145 reviews19 followers
July 27, 2020
Wow. I thought Beverly Jenkins was the master at historical romances . You havent lived til you sat down and read Sexy/dangerous . Max Blake is woman who is a one woman army taking her latest assignment from mykl . Dr. Adam Gray wow I loved how he allowed Max to be herself and he falls in love with this Alpha Heroine as well.
Profile Image for Krishana.
114 reviews
February 3, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down. If I’m being honest I didn’t even try. Over the last year, I’ve been slowly picking my way through Auntie Beverly’s enormous catalog. I typically focus my attention on her historical romance because she does it so well. Who else can explore the lives and loves of Black women in the wild west, during American slavery, and reconstruction without telling a sappy tale of hardship?

This time, I decided to explore one of Beverly’s modern tales, and it truly was titled correctly because the book was very sexy and very dangerous.

FMC: a secret agent in snakeskin cowboy boots

MMC: a nerdy, fine scientist whose invention might just leave him dead

Favorite parts: I thoroughly enjoyed how much political intrigue was woven into the novel. The stakes felt high and I was on my toes the entire time. The action sequences were so well done. I could see the book playing out like a movie in my head. And the lust, sexy scenes were HOT.

It’s a must read.
Profile Image for Adrienne.
41 reviews21 followers
June 30, 2008
Another very, very good book. I am loving this author and can't wait to read more of her work.
Profile Image for Deena.
540 reviews10 followers
November 14, 2012
Y'all already know, Ms. Bev can do no wrong as far as I'm concerned, and she didn't disappoint with this one. Loved that Max was a kick-ass chick! Too cute that she was descended from Lorelai and Grace, two other bad chicks. Adam was sweet, smart and sexy and loved him some Max. And even though I'm not into dogs at all, I just loved Ossie and Ruby - they were so smart! Heck, I even liked krazy Kaitlin (loved the description of her room!); now that she's out from her Daddy's clutches, maybe she can get her own book. Nice to 'see' Portia and Saint again. I must admit I thought using the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House as the backdrop for one of the scenes was a little weird, though. Still loved the book and can't wait to read about Max's sister, JT.
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews66 followers
January 27, 2014
What a fantastic book this was. My second read by Beverly Jenkins and it was absolutely amazing. Max was a kick a#% woman with her trusty side kicks (Ruby and Ossie who are trained Rottweilers). This story had everything love, death, fight scenes, reconciliation and you name it this book has it. I loved Adam because after his initial shock of the kind of woman Max is he loved her and wasn't insecure about who she was. He just wanted her in his life. Well Max left the secret service on her own and went to get her man. They have their HEA :-)
Profile Image for SassyMama.
1,016 reviews4 followers
January 16, 2016
An enjoyable romantic thriller! I was CAUGHT UP in the witty dialogue and UNFORGETTABLE cast of characters, Mrs. Jenkins does it again! I would love to read more about some of the secondary cast of characters mentioned throughout this novel, like Sweetness aka Eric Cole, Benny, Sheriff Ramos and even little Miss "pain-in-the-butt" Kaitlyn.
31 reviews
December 23, 2014
I loved this series! Great balance of romance and mystery. Fell in love with the characters of a strong-willed woman and male protector
Profile Image for Aly.
2,929 reviews86 followers
April 10, 2022
3.75

I still have a few historical romance left to read from this author but I was curious to try her romantic suspense. What can I say? Beverly Jenkins always write amazing heroines and Maxine "Max" Blake is no exception. Former Marine and former cop now turned secret agent for the Department of Defense, Max is send to protect Dr. Adam Gary, an astrophysician who's working on a device that produce its own energy. Someone tried to kidnap him while he was away at a conference in Madrid and the DOD is sending him at a gouvernment-owned house. But Max is not going alone. She's bringing reinforcement in the form of her two trained canines.

The chemistry between Max and Adam was so fun to witness and there was a good balance between the romance part and the action but I can't deny that this story wouldn't have been as entertaining for me if not for Ossie and Ruby, Max's rottweilers. I love the part where Adam admit he's not 100% confident he's okay with staying behind while she run ahead of danger but he knows it's his own problem to deal with and acknowledge she's the one with the security competence and he have to be man enough to step back and let her do her job.
Profile Image for Whit.
3,657 reviews51 followers
April 11, 2023

Lots of surprises in this sassy and suspenseful page-turner!

Adam is the brilliant scientist who will put all of the rip-off oil companies out of business, with his latest energy prototype. Adam is not about the money but about helping the consumer.

However, all of the greedy terrorists are now out to destroy him and steal his work. The biggest roadblock is ,you can't tell the good guys from the bad guys.

Then Maxine Blake (Max), a Black Ops Assassin, is sent to protect Adam and his prototype. Maxine rules her world and absolutely nothing scares her. SHE DID NOT COME TO PLAY!!!!

I loved her team, Ruby and Ossie, her fearless but sweetie pie Rottweilers. They made this story so much fun!
Profile Image for new_user.
263 reviews189 followers
January 14, 2009
Sexy/Dangerous is my first read from Beverly Jenkins, but the book's called Sexy and Dangerous. I mean, what more could you ask for? LOL. ;) Incidentally, the book's two main purposes fall nicely into these two categories.

Sexy: The first half of the book, while interspersed with behind-the-scenes moments with the villain, was spent exploring the relationship between brilliant researcher Dr. Adam Gary, who is developing an energy source that will put oil moguls out of work, and his bodyguard of the moment, Maxine. We learn about their characters and backgrounds and the author gives them ample time to develop a convincing relationship. There's no rush here, but there are no manufactured contrivances to keep them apart either. They don't like each other initially, and that's obstacle enough. This is believable because the good doctor is the Grinch when he's on the job (he is), barking at anyone who disturbs his work, and Max is not exactly romanced. Can you tell she's a woman of her own mind? They get to know each other living in the same house, however, (Oscar the Grouch has a softer side after all) and when they do finally give into their growing feelings-- well, we learn "Doc" Gary has other talents too, LOL. And stamina. o.O Damn. Doc likes to please.

Dangerous: The peace has to end sometime. Just when I was wondering if this was a suspense novel, the bad guys show up. This is when the book becomes an action flick, complete with rocket-launching Escalades, exploding car chases, and gunfights. If you can suspend belief about all the unlikely technology (well, she is working for a secret agency hired by the government), then you'll enjoy this part. I've seen enough Hollywood I got over this quickly, and the story moves on rapidly at any rate.

Just like the movies, there's a pretty satisfying conclusion. I was a little annoyed by the last obstacle for the couple to breach, i.e. a relationship obstacle. This was a case of the "strong female heroine has to prove she's doing something for herself and not because the hero told her to," but as this is a real flaw (the characters are very real, especially the actually-gentle-despite-their-introduction hero), I excused it. Max is pretty cool otherwise, even though she talks to her dogs like people, LOL. And they meet a gentleman thug on the way. How many suspense couples do that, hm? LOL.

Now, I have to comment on the writing style though. The author was very fond of using articles before subjects, e.g. "leaving a very annoyed Max to chase after," "so the irate Adam found her," etc. That needs to go. She also has a tendency to write run-on sentences that interrupt the flow of the telling. So that I read a neverending sentence and find myself losing the thread of the story. "So Max did such and such, with that such and such, which was the reason she had learned such and such..."

Wait, what were we talking about? Her style is also a little distant. You definitely get the feeling you're the third person. You see from the narrator's perspective-- that's all that's allowed, LOL. Not a lot of internal dialogue. On the other hand, her pacing is even and her writing is not florid, which is nice for a change. It's not bloated with adjectives or archaic word use. It's simple.

The dialogue also made up for the style (and the somewhat stereotypical plot), for me. All in all, this book was enjoyable for the characters (they're the expected heroes but fashioned differently) and their interactions. It's good for those rainy days, especially if you like those hero-takes-all action flicks. Not particularly dark (apart from a racist villain who is rather villainous in the final conflict). Good read. I'll probably pick up another when I'm in the mood for a basic romance suspense.
Profile Image for L..
607 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2021
This read better than a James Bond novel! Lots of suspense and action. Had me holding my breath during car chases hoping Max and Dr. Gary would get away from the bad guys.
Max is a security agent and her assignment is keeping Dr. Adam Gary safe. He's already been attacked during an attempted kidnapping in Madrid and is now back home in Michigan. He's expecting the agent named Max but not a female Max and definitely not with two Rottweilers. Their first meeting doesn't go well to put it mildly. His secretary won't let Max onto the grounds, then not in the house. Max sends the dogs to find Dr. Gary so she can introduce herself but once he's found he orders her to get the dogs out and tells her he doesn't want her protection. What a first day on the job!
It takes a lot of talking and threats, on Max's part, but they eventually reach a sort of peace agreement.
The plot is fantastic! Dr. Gary has invented an energy source that will eliminate the world's dependence on fossil fuels. The oil stock market crashes and some see his invention as a source for new arms development. There are rogue generals, U.S. and South African who want it badly and are willing to kill to get it and him. Max has her hands full especially with him being so stubborn.
Yes this is listed as a romance novel but its much more "Dangerous" than "Sexy".
Profile Image for Karen Scott.
313 reviews19 followers
February 26, 2012
The blurb from the back cover reads:

Wearing Her Shades, A Black Stetson, And Snakeskin Cowboy Boots, Security Agent, Maxine “Max” Blake Is The Baddest Thing Walking. Ex-Marine, Ex-Cop And A Whole Lotta ‘Tude, Max Doesn’t Have Time For Anything But Her Job. Her Latest Assignment: To Protect Dr. Adam Gary. Her Problem: He Doesn’t Want Her There.
Adams Wants To Focus On His Work, Not To Be Distracted By This Tall, Sexy Woman. A Foiled Kidnapping Attempt May Have Forced Him To Take An Undercopver Agent Into His Household, But No One Said Anything About The Agent Being A Woman, Or That She’d Be Beautiful, Or That She Came With Two Monster Rottweilers.

How Is He Supposed To Concentrate On His Top-Secret Project That Could Revolutionise The World When All He Can Think About Is Her Smooth, Coffee-Colored Skin, And Those Long, Lean Legs?

But As Danger Nips At Their Heels, Love May Be A Distraction Neither Of Them Will Live To Enjoy…


What I loved about this book? A kick-ass heroine with two of the cutest (and meanest) rottweilers ever, a heroine who is able to protect herself and her charge, a heroine who wasn't afraid to laugh at herself, and a heroine who knew what her vagina is for.

Such a truly scrumptious read.
Profile Image for TinaNoir.
1,892 reviews337 followers
September 28, 2018
I don't think I've ever read a Beverly Jenkins contemporary action thriller. Who knew!

But I really liked this. I loved Max, the female Texan bodyguard who guards the body of the scientifically brilliant Adam. Great dialogue and tension. And well, sexiness! And it is an awesome action adventure as well. So yeah, I really enjoyed this.
Profile Image for Jackie Scott.
64 reviews
September 29, 2011
I truly enjoyed this book. I LOVED Max, Ruby, and Ozzie. I'm not even a dog lover and loved them. and the appearance of Saint made me shout. Another good job Ms. Jenkins.

I wonder sometimes why people read. Just enjoy the get-away, the release from reality.
Profile Image for Classic74.
10 reviews
January 16, 2014
I think I love her contemporary novels as much as her historical romances. The continuation of her classic stories in modern day and them still fighting injustice gives me a new set of characters to love
17 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2016
Sexy/Dangerxous

I love reading anything that Beverly Jenkins write. Her characters are funny,brave any very entertaining. Every time I finish a book by Beverly Jenkins, I can't hardly wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Michelle Chavis .
377 reviews32 followers
July 7, 2013
Love it!! The story was wonderful. I couldn't put it down. I also liked catching up on some old characters. Thank you Mrs. BJ!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
Author 6 books113 followers
August 27, 2015
SO good. Max Blake is exactly the sort of heroine I'd love to write, and definitely the sort I love to read about.
Profile Image for Kasey Statum.
114 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2021
Suspense, intrigue, action & love

There was a lot going on in this novel and I love it!! I like the espionage and suspense. The black excellence on all sides of the line. I think Sweetness is begging for a Detroit story!!!
I had to read this after JT’s story. Now I’m going back to finish up abt GGma Jessi!!!! I love that Ms. Jenkins is sooo prolific.
Profile Image for Jadaisha Lande.
17 reviews
July 27, 2025
I could have been spicier. But there was a lot of action and overall a good story.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,925 reviews77 followers
October 19, 2023
I enjoyed this installment in this contemporary series. It was not as dated as some of the earlier books, and I really appreciated some of the discussions around gender equality. Liked the MCs too. There are some far fetched bits, but it did not affect my enjoyment of the read. 3.5 stars
Profile Image for CalReads.
92 reviews8 followers
June 29, 2021
The best bodyguard romance. Ever. Period.

Okay. This is canonically the best bodyguard romance I’ve ever read.

Also, why in the WORLD has no one made this into a movie or TV show yet? @netflix, looking at you!

For those of you who don’t know the magic of Beverly Jenkins… You are missing out. Seriously, she’s incredible, and one of the things that I loved most about this book was how she played the tropes like Mozart.

You want a bodyguard romance book? Check. Books with dogs? Check. Bada$$ tough heroine? Check. Steam? Triple check. Angst? Check. Sickbed scenes? Check. The bad guys getting what’s coming to them? Check.

Like, honestly, why would we watch whatever drivel Liam Neeson has put out lately, when we could watch shows with this level of plot and romance?

WHICH LEADS ME TO the seamless blend of thrill and romance here. It was just… Masterful. I’m in awe.

Max is the best bodyguard around. She comes complete with two Rottweilers as her security team, and can HANDLE HERSELF. Like, seriously, she makes no apologies for her skills and talents, and she’s basically everything I aspire to be someday. Dr. Adam Gary, a brilliant physicist, has discovered the secret to renewable energy, and is being chased by a nefarious cabal of white supremacists (think Hans Gruber but even more racist) for it. Max and Adam don’t see eye to eye at first, but like me, he can’t help but love her.

And she’s got it bad for the smart boy next door.

If you like Tom Cruise movies but hate Tom Cruise, or if you think action movies are garbage because everyone dies… read this book. You’ll learn to love action all over again.
Profile Image for Vondetta Carter.
831 reviews8 followers
April 30, 2019
Max is a tough as nails jack of all trades and master of many. Max is a fixer within the USA who can handle whatever is thrown in front of her. Her sidekicks are two hard nosed companions of the four legged persuasion, Ruby and Ossie. She has had two husbands but is determined to never walk that road again.
Adam is a no nonsense scientist that is on the verge of a world changing invention. He is nearly kidnapped but, he is no pushover. However, the government knows he is valuable commodity. They send their best agent to pose as a housekeeper for Adam. Adam is not happy on many levels when the 5'7" , bronze colored, green eyed vixen shows up at his house. He has a deathly fear of dogs and she has two. She's bossy and loves lime Cool-aid. However, their dislike is somewhat mutual until things begin to simmer.
Take this well told journey with these extreme personalities who find out they want each other. Take a ride on the wild side when spies, thugs, and world powers try to steal what the good scientist has made..
Ms. Jenkins is a master storyteller who has given us a great adventure within these pages..
115 reviews1 follower
June 19, 2022
Sexy/Dangerous is Truly Both

Having read Deadly Sexy a few years ago, I couldn't wait to read about JT's little sister.
Max Blake is one of the most amazing characters I've ever read about! The sister is beautiful, bold, and bad to the bone! Next to Max, JT is a wimp!
Then add the handsome, intelligent Dr. Adam Gary, and you have a story that keeps you spellbound from cover to cover!
I also enjoyed the background characters, and they blended seamlessly into this story.
Beverly Jenkins has never disappointed me, and this book is no exception! Excellent way to spend an evening of reading!!
127 reviews3 followers
March 17, 2019
SEXY/DANGEROUS

I'M SO GLAD I OWN THIS BOOK. I REALIZE EVERY TIME I READ IT MAXINE AND ADAM STEAL MY HEART ALL OVER AGAIN. JUST LIKE THE FIRST TIME I READ IT. SO THANKS MRS. JENKINS FOR WRITING A FANTASTIC NOVEL FOR ME TO ENJOY WHENEVER I CAN. I LOVE THE INTRIGUE AND DANGER MAKES ME THINK OF G.I. JANE. I ALSO THINK THE OTHER BOOK IS WELL WRITTEN TOO. I LOVE READING GREAT BOOKS WITH GOOD HEROINES AND HEROES.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews

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