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Blue HEAT #1
Stripped
Detective Sawyer Matthews isn’t just having a bad day—he’s having the worst day. His hunt for the criminal who killed his team member has stalled and now… he’s got to play nice with his new, totally unwanted partner. It’s not that she isn’t qualified, or that he doesn’t like her—it’s because he knows what she looks like naked. So very, very naked.
Brooke Simmons finally landed her dream job working for H.E.A.T, an elite undercover detective squad, and she’s not giving up simply because she had a one-night-stand with her sullen—but undeniably sexy—new partner. They’ll just have to keep it professional. Easier said than done, considering their first case requires Sawyer to infiltrate a drug cartel operating out of a male strip show. Watching him do his best Magic Mike impression every night isn’t just hot—it’s torture.
Sawyer doesn’t need any distractions, yet his attraction to Brooke is explosive and he can’t resist going for round two. Or three. Or four. But as their investigation progresses and danger mounts, they’ll have to put their jobs, hearts, and lives on the line to fight… for each other, for survival, and for justice.
Brooke Simmons finally landed her dream job working for H.E.A.T, an elite undercover detective squad, and she’s not giving up simply because she had a one-night-stand with her sullen—but undeniably sexy—new partner. They’ll just have to keep it professional. Easier said than done, considering their first case requires Sawyer to infiltrate a drug cartel operating out of a male strip show. Watching him do his best Magic Mike impression every night isn’t just hot—it’s torture.
Sawyer doesn’t need any distractions, yet his attraction to Brooke is explosive and he can’t resist going for round two. Or three. Or four. But as their investigation progresses and danger mounts, they’ll have to put their jobs, hearts, and lives on the line to fight… for each other, for survival, and for justice.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2018
67 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Tara Wyatt
52 books667 followersTara Wyatt is a Canadian contemporary romance author. Known for her humor and steamy love scenes, Tara's writing has won several awards, including the Golden Quill Award and the Booksellers' Best Award. In addition, she was a 2018 RITA® Finalist for her novella, Until the Sun Sets.
When she's not hanging out with your next book boyfriend, she can be found reading, bingeing Netflix, or playing way too much Among Us. Tara lives in Hamilton, Ontario with the world's cutest dog, her daughter, and a husband who makes all her of her heroes look like chumps.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a FREE story here: www.tara-wyatt.com/newsletter
When she's not hanging out with your next book boyfriend, she can be found reading, bingeing Netflix, or playing way too much Among Us. Tara lives in Hamilton, Ontario with the world's cutest dog, her daughter, and a husband who makes all her of her heroes look like chumps.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a FREE story here: www.tara-wyatt.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 15, 2018
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
3.5 Stars
Stripped is the first novel in Tara Wyatt's new Blue HEAT series and follows Sawyer and Brooke after they share a steamy night together, never expecting to cross paths again, only to later discover that Brooke is Sawyer's new partner at work. With the pain still fresh from losing his last partner, and friend, Sawyer isn't too happy to get stuck with a new Detective especially one as distracting as Brooke. But this is Brooke's big chance to prove herself as a Detective so she isn't backing down easily, no matter how much she wants to jump Sawyers bones.
I found this story to be really interesting and it was easy to get right into it and involved with these characters. I loved the chemistry that was between Sawyer and Brooke and I thought it was a nice change of things that they had a insta-lust connection instead of an insta-love one. Instead we got to read on and discover how their feelings of lust turned into love.
There were a few scenes surrounding the whole cop-take-down situation that I had issues with. They seemed a little rushed and for me there just wasn't enough attention focused on that part of the story. Also there was a nod to 21 Jump Street it seemed but I didn't particularly like that some of the things that happened almost felt like they were taken right from the movie. Maybe that was me, who knows, but that's how I felt about it.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book for anyone that want's a steamy cop story. Next up is another HEAT detective getting his story and I can't wait to learn more about him.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
3.5 Stars
Stripped is the first novel in Tara Wyatt's new Blue HEAT series and follows Sawyer and Brooke after they share a steamy night together, never expecting to cross paths again, only to later discover that Brooke is Sawyer's new partner at work. With the pain still fresh from losing his last partner, and friend, Sawyer isn't too happy to get stuck with a new Detective especially one as distracting as Brooke. But this is Brooke's big chance to prove herself as a Detective so she isn't backing down easily, no matter how much she wants to jump Sawyers bones.
I found this story to be really interesting and it was easy to get right into it and involved with these characters. I loved the chemistry that was between Sawyer and Brooke and I thought it was a nice change of things that they had a insta-lust connection instead of an insta-love one. Instead we got to read on and discover how their feelings of lust turned into love.
There were a few scenes surrounding the whole cop-take-down situation that I had issues with. They seemed a little rushed and for me there just wasn't enough attention focused on that part of the story. Also there was a nod to 21 Jump Street it seemed but I didn't particularly like that some of the things that happened almost felt like they were taken right from the movie. Maybe that was me, who knows, but that's how I felt about it.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book for anyone that want's a steamy cop story. Next up is another HEAT detective getting his story and I can't wait to learn more about him.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2018
3.5 STARS
When a hot one night stand turns out to be your new partner for an elite crimefighting unit you've been waiting to get a spot on for your entire career? Awwwwwwwkward.
When a very bad date sends Brooke to lick her wounds at a local bar, she doesn't expect to pass her night with a man that makes her stop thinking about everything. But she certainly doesn't expect for this man to turn out to be her brand new partner at HEAT, and less than thrilled to see her again. After losing his best friend and partner on duty, Sawyer Matthews's entire world becomes revenge and catching the criminal responsible for it. Being forced to work with another partner is bad enough, but when it's a woman he's fighting an undeniable attraction to? It's even worse.
Now I'll be honest, the whole undercover male stripper totally sold me. But this book was so much more than that. As a matter of fact, it was barely a blip on the radar of the entire story. So if you're planning on reading it hoping it'll be a whole lot of male stripper action a la Magic Mike, think again. I'm also admittedly not a fan of the MCs having sex so early in the book because often times I find I lose interest in their connection. Luckily that never happened here. There was enough of a slow burn following their initial hookup that kept me fully invested. Even though I wanted to kick Sawyer in the balls a whole lot of times. The man gives brooding and hardheaded a new meaning.
I enjoyed the secondary characters and the suspense part of the story. If I'm being truthful, that kept me more engaged than the romance for the majority of the book. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed Brooke and Sawyer together. But I also couldn't help but feeling like something was missing for me that I couldn't quite get my finger on.
Blue HEAT was definitely an exciting start to what looks to be a promising new series, and I for one am hooked. I'll be on the lookout for book two, and also eagerly anticipating the book for a certain character that had the best hook for ever at the end of this book. I won't spoiler it for you, but I will say I'm pretty much salivating for his story.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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When a hot one night stand turns out to be your new partner for an elite crimefighting unit you've been waiting to get a spot on for your entire career? Awwwwwwwkward.
When a very bad date sends Brooke to lick her wounds at a local bar, she doesn't expect to pass her night with a man that makes her stop thinking about everything. But she certainly doesn't expect for this man to turn out to be her brand new partner at HEAT, and less than thrilled to see her again. After losing his best friend and partner on duty, Sawyer Matthews's entire world becomes revenge and catching the criminal responsible for it. Being forced to work with another partner is bad enough, but when it's a woman he's fighting an undeniable attraction to? It's even worse.
Now I'll be honest, the whole undercover male stripper totally sold me. But this book was so much more than that. As a matter of fact, it was barely a blip on the radar of the entire story. So if you're planning on reading it hoping it'll be a whole lot of male stripper action a la Magic Mike, think again. I'm also admittedly not a fan of the MCs having sex so early in the book because often times I find I lose interest in their connection. Luckily that never happened here. There was enough of a slow burn following their initial hookup that kept me fully invested. Even though I wanted to kick Sawyer in the balls a whole lot of times. The man gives brooding and hardheaded a new meaning.
I enjoyed the secondary characters and the suspense part of the story. If I'm being truthful, that kept me more engaged than the romance for the majority of the book. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed Brooke and Sawyer together. But I also couldn't help but feeling like something was missing for me that I couldn't quite get my finger on.
Blue HEAT was definitely an exciting start to what looks to be a promising new series, and I for one am hooked. I'll be on the lookout for book two, and also eagerly anticipating the book for a certain character that had the best hook for ever at the end of this book. I won't spoiler it for you, but I will say I'm pretty much salivating for his story.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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April 23, 2018
Tara Wyatt’s newest law enforcement series sounded like the kind of romantic suspense I wanted to dig my heels into and ‘Stripped’—in more ways than one—is the introduction to a trio of detectives seeking to avenge the death of their friend, while finding their HEA along the way.
It’s not quite a workplace romance gone wrong, but Brooke and Sawyer went at it in reverse—from a one-night stand to the mortifying discovery that they actually work together—with Brooke as a replacement for Sawyer’s fallen best friend. As they got very hot and extremely heavy in the opening scenes for what was meant to be a one-nighter, I felt a tad bit cheated out of the usual play of tension that I normally like before they actually fall into bed, then felt equally off-centre as both Brooke and Sawyer did as I didn’t know where the direction of ‘Stripped’ was going.
My own expectations of a high-octane, non-stop police drama weren’t quite fulfilled; instead we had Sawyer and Brooke sniping post-hookup (and basically being jerks to each other) that got annoying at times instead of the heavy and heated glances that typically build. Then it got weirdly comical when Sawyer went undercover as a male stripper, kicking off a raunchiness that rivalled a porno given the amount of sexy times in it when I wanted to read more about hard-core police work.
There were overly-used clichéd phrases written in that made me cringe as well, and some unwelcome development of secondary characters whose future stories I know I might not be looking forward to read. In all, there was certainly action that kept me going (of the actual road-rash-giving kind) and I did, for most of it, liked Brooke’s no-nonsense character save for the last, somewhat out-of-character TSTL move on her part.
But there were lulls in the pacing that made the whole story move along in a jerky fashion and I did at times, feel somewhat untethered to the plot that just didn’t build or move when I thought it would, in a direction I thought it would. That said, ‘Stripped’ is far from a bad read, only that I wished I enjoyed it more.
*ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss
It’s not quite a workplace romance gone wrong, but Brooke and Sawyer went at it in reverse—from a one-night stand to the mortifying discovery that they actually work together—with Brooke as a replacement for Sawyer’s fallen best friend. As they got very hot and extremely heavy in the opening scenes for what was meant to be a one-nighter, I felt a tad bit cheated out of the usual play of tension that I normally like before they actually fall into bed, then felt equally off-centre as both Brooke and Sawyer did as I didn’t know where the direction of ‘Stripped’ was going.
My own expectations of a high-octane, non-stop police drama weren’t quite fulfilled; instead we had Sawyer and Brooke sniping post-hookup (and basically being jerks to each other) that got annoying at times instead of the heavy and heated glances that typically build. Then it got weirdly comical when Sawyer went undercover as a male stripper, kicking off a raunchiness that rivalled a porno given the amount of sexy times in it when I wanted to read more about hard-core police work.
There were overly-used clichéd phrases written in that made me cringe as well, and some unwelcome development of secondary characters whose future stories I know I might not be looking forward to read. In all, there was certainly action that kept me going (of the actual road-rash-giving kind) and I did, for most of it, liked Brooke’s no-nonsense character save for the last, somewhat out-of-character TSTL move on her part.
But there were lulls in the pacing that made the whole story move along in a jerky fashion and I did at times, feel somewhat untethered to the plot that just didn’t build or move when I thought it would, in a direction I thought it would. That said, ‘Stripped’ is far from a bad read, only that I wished I enjoyed it more.
*ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss
August 28, 2018
3.5/5
Ari has been on my case for not having read more books about strippers, so when I saw Stripped on Edelweiss, it immediately piqued my interest. There was so much going on with this book and I had a great time reading it, especially with the hate-to-love vibes it had in it.
Stripped opens up with the hero, Sawyer, and the heroine, Brooke, having a steamy one-night stand after a date gone sour for Brooke. The next morning, when Brooke checks in to her new dream job, she's shocked beyond belief to find out that her new partner is no one other than her hot one-night stand. Talk about awkward! Brooke though is determined to not let the awkwardness and Sawyer's annoyance with her get in the way. I liked Brooke a lot. She was sassy and fiery and very headstrong. She didn't allow Sawyer to walk all over her and didn't mince her words. Sawyer, on the other hand, could be a bit of an ass. He was dealing with the grief of having recently lost his partner and was acting out on Brooke. Still though, his behavior was a little irritating at first, and it took me some time to warm up to him. Brooke and Sawyer had phenomenal chemistry together. These two were steamy AF. Though they immediately jumped into bed, their relationship did take a while to develop from animosity to more.
Plot-wise, I wasn't entirely into the criminal story. I just didn't find it as captivating of a case as it could be. I also felt like the romantic and sexy times elements took over the crime aspects, so it didn't feel like the case was as fleshed out as it could have been. The stripping parts of Stripped came when Sawyer went undercover as a male stripper for the case. I'll admit that they were gold and they certainly got me interested in reading more books where stripping is involved - LOL I realize this makes me sound like a perv. :D I also quite enjoyed the secondary characters and their relationships with Brooke. I'm hoping some of the new friends Brooke makes will also get books of their own.
All in all, this was a decent start to a new series from Tara Wyatt. Though I was not a complete fan of the hero, I found the book and the romance to be entertaining.
Ari has been on my case for not having read more books about strippers, so when I saw Stripped on Edelweiss, it immediately piqued my interest. There was so much going on with this book and I had a great time reading it, especially with the hate-to-love vibes it had in it.
Stripped opens up with the hero, Sawyer, and the heroine, Brooke, having a steamy one-night stand after a date gone sour for Brooke. The next morning, when Brooke checks in to her new dream job, she's shocked beyond belief to find out that her new partner is no one other than her hot one-night stand. Talk about awkward! Brooke though is determined to not let the awkwardness and Sawyer's annoyance with her get in the way. I liked Brooke a lot. She was sassy and fiery and very headstrong. She didn't allow Sawyer to walk all over her and didn't mince her words. Sawyer, on the other hand, could be a bit of an ass. He was dealing with the grief of having recently lost his partner and was acting out on Brooke. Still though, his behavior was a little irritating at first, and it took me some time to warm up to him. Brooke and Sawyer had phenomenal chemistry together. These two were steamy AF. Though they immediately jumped into bed, their relationship did take a while to develop from animosity to more.
Plot-wise, I wasn't entirely into the criminal story. I just didn't find it as captivating of a case as it could be. I also felt like the romantic and sexy times elements took over the crime aspects, so it didn't feel like the case was as fleshed out as it could have been. The stripping parts of Stripped came when Sawyer went undercover as a male stripper for the case. I'll admit that they were gold and they certainly got me interested in reading more books where stripping is involved - LOL I realize this makes me sound like a perv. :D I also quite enjoyed the secondary characters and their relationships with Brooke. I'm hoping some of the new friends Brooke makes will also get books of their own.
All in all, this was a decent start to a new series from Tara Wyatt. Though I was not a complete fan of the hero, I found the book and the romance to be entertaining.
May 17, 2018
A minimalist review.
This was fantastic!
Fun, captivating, and witty.
The meeting between this couple was sexy and sharp.
The ongoing tension incredibly satisfying.
The case is attention grabbing and the uncover work... well... tantalizing. (Smirky-smirk)
One of the most fun and sexy books I’ve read this year.
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This was fantastic!
Fun, captivating, and witty.
The meeting between this couple was sexy and sharp.
The ongoing tension incredibly satisfying.
The case is attention grabbing and the uncover work... well... tantalizing. (Smirky-smirk)
One of the most fun and sexy books I’ve read this year.
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May 31, 2018
I loved how strong and feisty Brooke was, and Sawyer's broody alpha ways made for sizzling chemistry. The undercover stripping plot was gold, but the emotional elements are what filled this book out for me. The characters felt real and hooked me throughout their journey.
May 18, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
Stripped is the start of a the new series Blue HEAT by Tara Wyatt. I will admit that what drew me to the book first was the cover. I mean...how could I have passed this up. Sexy right? I really should use this cover one day for my Sexy Sunday post.
Sure I've read and enjoyed past books from Tara Wyatt by only a few. So if it wasn't for the cover I might not have read this one right away. Silly, I know! But that's how it is, I'm alive and he's hot that's all that it took.
Then add the title and OMG!
What I really enjoyed was that these two characters, Brooke and Sawyer. The punch of lust when they met and then what seems like forever which we know it wasn't, them falling in love.
The author starts off this book with a kick in the face. Right away you feel for these characters and what to know more about this police department. I even enjoyed how both Brooke and Sawyer meet. Of course the road to love wasn't easy for either the characters and at times us as the readers. I think the author had them working a little to hard at not showing or maybe realizing their own feelings at times.
I was glad that the story wasn't only about the suspense, there was equal romance in it. The pace of the story is good with the writing at times getting a little silly, but overall a very good story that will leave you wanting more. Schooled #2 is out August 15th and Scorched November 13th!
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ARC received for a honest review
Stripped is the start of a the new series Blue HEAT by Tara Wyatt. I will admit that what drew me to the book first was the cover. I mean...how could I have passed this up. Sexy right? I really should use this cover one day for my Sexy Sunday post.
Sure I've read and enjoyed past books from Tara Wyatt by only a few. So if it wasn't for the cover I might not have read this one right away. Silly, I know! But that's how it is, I'm alive and he's hot that's all that it took.
Then add the title and OMG!
What I really enjoyed was that these two characters, Brooke and Sawyer. The punch of lust when they met and then what seems like forever which we know it wasn't, them falling in love.
The author starts off this book with a kick in the face. Right away you feel for these characters and what to know more about this police department. I even enjoyed how both Brooke and Sawyer meet. Of course the road to love wasn't easy for either the characters and at times us as the readers. I think the author had them working a little to hard at not showing or maybe realizing their own feelings at times.
I was glad that the story wasn't only about the suspense, there was equal romance in it. The pace of the story is good with the writing at times getting a little silly, but overall a very good story that will leave you wanting more. Schooled #2 is out August 15th and Scorched November 13th!
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
May 14, 2018
copy received through Edelweiss for honest review
this is Chicago PD meets Magic Mike. forbidden romance, action and danger all come together in this fast paced story. We have Sawyer who just lost his partner. His pain and grief make him more surly than normal. He spent a time working out and drinking. When he meets a beautiful woman in a bar, he thinks this is a good way to keep his mind occupied. Brooke is just hiding out after another disastrous date. It was a little comical. When she sees Sawyer, she checks him out. They spend the night together, thinking it was one and done. However, later they find out that they are partners in a select police squad. Fraternization is forbidden. Sawyer and Brooke can't resist. Especially after they are assigned an undercover mission that requires Sawyer to strip every night. Great story that will get your emotionally invested. It was fun, sad, sexy and a great happy ending.
this is Chicago PD meets Magic Mike. forbidden romance, action and danger all come together in this fast paced story. We have Sawyer who just lost his partner. His pain and grief make him more surly than normal. He spent a time working out and drinking. When he meets a beautiful woman in a bar, he thinks this is a good way to keep his mind occupied. Brooke is just hiding out after another disastrous date. It was a little comical. When she sees Sawyer, she checks him out. They spend the night together, thinking it was one and done. However, later they find out that they are partners in a select police squad. Fraternization is forbidden. Sawyer and Brooke can't resist. Especially after they are assigned an undercover mission that requires Sawyer to strip every night. Great story that will get your emotionally invested. It was fun, sad, sexy and a great happy ending.
May 21, 2018
5 SUPER NOVA STARS! This book. OMG!! Such a terrific concept, once I heard about this book, I HAD TO READ, and then I could NOT put it down once I did. The HEAT is crazy good. This couple sizzles together. So much sexual tension. This book ticks all of my boxes. Characters, great story line, some fun and chemistry. Can't wait for the next one.
May 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series, by a new-to-me author! I am always here for hot cops! And this time both the hero AND heroine are hot cops!
Detective Sawyer Matthews is having a difficult time. He's an elite undercover cop in Atlanta's special HEAT unit, and he's just lost his partner and best friend, Ryan, who was murdered by the cartel drug lord they were investigating. Now, he just needs proof to take the bad guys down for good. While in the depths of his grief, drinking at a hotel bar, he runs into a woman who he decides can help him forget all his woes, at least for one night. Little does he know he'll be seeing her again after all, and in a totally surprising place.
Newly minted detective Brooke Simmons has finally landed her dream job with the HEAT unit. But she is shocked to find that her new partner is her recent one night stand. Now they have to work together, and nothing else can happen between them, or else their jobs are both at risk. Brooke has had a horrible history with dating, and all the men she meets are either liars, cheaters, d-bags, or completely insane. Or all of the above. She was so happy after her one perfect night with Sawyer, but now it could ruin her chance at the career she's always wanted. Brooke lost her parents when she was very young, and she was raised by her grandparents. She's always been afraid to let anyone into her life, because she knows all too well she can't depend on them to stay for good. Could Sawyer actually be different?
Brooke and Sawyer had fantastic chemistry, and I loved watching them fight their attraction, knowing that eventually they would be giving in, and it would be glorious. And it WAS. They both made mistakes, many times, but I appreciated the ways they owned up to them, and apologized for them, like grown ups. It was so refreshing. I really loved their banter, as well as their interactions with the other 2 members of their team. I felt so bad for their team member Amelia, who was in a relationship with Ryan before he died. She was breaking my heart throughout the story, and I'm curious to see throughout the series if she'll be able to find love again. Their other team member, Jack, was quite the ladies man, and I'm very interested in seeing him take a fall. I also enjoyed Brooke's relationship with her best friend and fellow cop, Dani. They seemed to have a great friendship, and Dani always told Brooke the truth, even when it wasn't easy. I'd be interested in knowing more about her as well!
Brooke had a lot of repressed issues she had clearly never dealt with, and Sawyer didn't help with some of the antics he pulled during the story. It was hard for them to trust each other as partners, at first, and I loved watching them feel each other out and learn to read each other's signals. Their partnership grew stronger, and so did their bond in general. Adding the undercover op in the male strip club was genius, as it basically forced Brooke's hand in realizing she wanted to be with him. I really enjoyed watching them dance around each other.
I liked the suspense aspects of the story as well, and it made everything else that much more exciting. I definitely recommend this to any hot cop/romantic suspense lovers out there. I'll be searching for more from this author, and I'll be looking forward to more in this series.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
Detective Sawyer Matthews is having a difficult time. He's an elite undercover cop in Atlanta's special HEAT unit, and he's just lost his partner and best friend, Ryan, who was murdered by the cartel drug lord they were investigating. Now, he just needs proof to take the bad guys down for good. While in the depths of his grief, drinking at a hotel bar, he runs into a woman who he decides can help him forget all his woes, at least for one night. Little does he know he'll be seeing her again after all, and in a totally surprising place.
Newly minted detective Brooke Simmons has finally landed her dream job with the HEAT unit. But she is shocked to find that her new partner is her recent one night stand. Now they have to work together, and nothing else can happen between them, or else their jobs are both at risk. Brooke has had a horrible history with dating, and all the men she meets are either liars, cheaters, d-bags, or completely insane. Or all of the above. She was so happy after her one perfect night with Sawyer, but now it could ruin her chance at the career she's always wanted. Brooke lost her parents when she was very young, and she was raised by her grandparents. She's always been afraid to let anyone into her life, because she knows all too well she can't depend on them to stay for good. Could Sawyer actually be different?
Brooke and Sawyer had fantastic chemistry, and I loved watching them fight their attraction, knowing that eventually they would be giving in, and it would be glorious. And it WAS. They both made mistakes, many times, but I appreciated the ways they owned up to them, and apologized for them, like grown ups. It was so refreshing. I really loved their banter, as well as their interactions with the other 2 members of their team. I felt so bad for their team member Amelia, who was in a relationship with Ryan before he died. She was breaking my heart throughout the story, and I'm curious to see throughout the series if she'll be able to find love again. Their other team member, Jack, was quite the ladies man, and I'm very interested in seeing him take a fall. I also enjoyed Brooke's relationship with her best friend and fellow cop, Dani. They seemed to have a great friendship, and Dani always told Brooke the truth, even when it wasn't easy. I'd be interested in knowing more about her as well!
Brooke had a lot of repressed issues she had clearly never dealt with, and Sawyer didn't help with some of the antics he pulled during the story. It was hard for them to trust each other as partners, at first, and I loved watching them feel each other out and learn to read each other's signals. Their partnership grew stronger, and so did their bond in general. Adding the undercover op in the male strip club was genius, as it basically forced Brooke's hand in realizing she wanted to be with him. I really enjoyed watching them dance around each other.
I liked the suspense aspects of the story as well, and it made everything else that much more exciting. I definitely recommend this to any hot cop/romantic suspense lovers out there. I'll be searching for more from this author, and I'll be looking forward to more in this series.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
August 6, 2019
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
I have enjoyed everything Tara Wyatt has written so far and this was no exception. I haven't watched Magic Mike, so that may have added to this story being fresh and new to me. Combine that novelty with a steamy, sexy, forbidden romance and some suspense to make it one of my favorite books so far this year.
The hook for me is the overarching story-line and I'm counting down the days to the rest of the series, to see where the author is taking the story. However, the characters are really the enjoyable part of the story. Dedicated to their careers, but also wanting more than just the job. Both Brooke and Sawyer want a life outside of work, a lasting connection with someone, but will they let their fears and hangups get in the way of what they want or will they fight hard for it?
From a bad date to a one night stand to working with that one night stand, everything moves really fast for these characters. Sawyer is quite a package - a little bit of everything from sweet, sexy and thoughtful to a bit of an idiot who bungles the handling of his feelings for his partner - but he's still adorable because he knows he's found what he's been looking for and is willing to put in the work to keep it. And besides, his dedication to his undercover role is very attractive!
Brooke was not exactly my favorite gal, especially with her having one foot out the door in everything but her job, but she came through when it counted, so all is forgiven.
The characters are easy to relate to and Brooke and Sawyer easily found a spot in my heart. Even the secondary characters will make you want to read more about them. This is a a solid start to the series and I am really looking forward to the rest of it.
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I have enjoyed everything Tara Wyatt has written so far and this was no exception. I haven't watched Magic Mike, so that may have added to this story being fresh and new to me. Combine that novelty with a steamy, sexy, forbidden romance and some suspense to make it one of my favorite books so far this year.
The hook for me is the overarching story-line and I'm counting down the days to the rest of the series, to see where the author is taking the story. However, the characters are really the enjoyable part of the story. Dedicated to their careers, but also wanting more than just the job. Both Brooke and Sawyer want a life outside of work, a lasting connection with someone, but will they let their fears and hangups get in the way of what they want or will they fight hard for it?
From a bad date to a one night stand to working with that one night stand, everything moves really fast for these characters. Sawyer is quite a package - a little bit of everything from sweet, sexy and thoughtful to a bit of an idiot who bungles the handling of his feelings for his partner - but he's still adorable because he knows he's found what he's been looking for and is willing to put in the work to keep it. And besides, his dedication to his undercover role is very attractive!
Brooke was not exactly my favorite gal, especially with her having one foot out the door in everything but her job, but she came through when it counted, so all is forgiven.
The characters are easy to relate to and Brooke and Sawyer easily found a spot in my heart. Even the secondary characters will make you want to read more about them. This is a a solid start to the series and I am really looking forward to the rest of it.
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May 15, 2018
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2018
Detective Sawyer Matthews isn’t just having a bad day—he’s having the worst day. His hunt for the criminal who killed his team member has stalled and now… he’s got to play nice with his new, totally unwanted partner. It’s not that she isn’t qualified, or that he doesn’t like her—it’s because he knows what she looks like naked. So very, very naked.
Brooke Simmons finally landed her dream job working for H.E.A.T, an elite undercover detective squad, and she’s not giving up simply because she had a one-night-stand with her sullen—but undeniably sexy—new partner. They’ll just have to keep it professional. Easier said than done, considering their first case requires Sawyer to infiltrate a drug cartel operating out of a male strip show. Watching him do his best Magic Mike impression every night isn’t just hot—it’s torture.
Sawyer doesn’t need any distractions, yet his attraction to Brooke is explosive and he can’t resist going for round two. Or three. Or four. But as their investigation progresses and danger mounts, they’ll have to put their jobs, hearts, and lives on the line to fight… for each other, for survival, and for justice.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--STRIPPED is the first instalment in Tara Wyatt’s contemporary, adult Blue HEAT erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women who work for HEAT (High-Risk Evaluation and Action Team) of Atlanta, Georgia. This is Detectives Sawyer Matthews, and Brooke Simmons’ story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Brooke and Sawyer) STRIPPED is a forbidden romance story line focusing on the building relationship between APD’S undercover police detectives Sawyer Matthews, and Brooke Simmons. Brooke is the HEAT rookie, having risen to the position due to the murder of Sawyer’s last partner and best friend Ryan Walker-a murder Sawyer, and his fellow undercover operatives are having a difficult time to overcome. Sawyer doesn’t want a new partner but things go from bad to worse when Sawyer discovers his new partner is a one-night stand from days before. Setting plans into motion to take down the Baracoa Cartel and the men responsible for destroying so many lives, Brooke and Sawyer must go undercover at a local strip bar with connections to the drug cartel, wherein Sawyer becomes the nightly entertainment as they struggle to uncover and take down the people behind the murder, and the influx of a new designer drug hitting the streets. What ensues is the building but forbidden romance between Sawyer and Brooke, and the potential fall-out as their undercover operation begins to implode.
Brooke Simmons, as the newest member of Atlanta’s HEAT, knows she has to prove her worth but the battle is only beginning when Sawyer Matthews begins a personal campaign against the woman with whom he will fall in love. Sawyer doesn’t do relationships, and getting involved with his partner and fellow detective is a sure fire way to get kicked off the job. Unable to concentrate on the task at hand, Sawyer begins to make life a living h*ll for his new partner.
The relationship between Brooke and Sawyer is one of immediate attraction that begins as a one-night stand wherein neither one was willing to go beyond the here and now. Sawyer’s attraction to Brooke is palpable but his less than mature behaviour post hook-up, and his actions scream childish and adolescent; the sexual chemistry is off the charts. The sex scenes are erotic, intense and provocative.
We are introduced to Sawyer’s fellow detectives Jack Ward and Amelia Perez, as well as their captain DeMarcus Hill, and Brooke’s best friend, homicide detective Dani Harris, and Brooke’s grandmother Nan. The requisite evil has many faces. Jack and Rachel’s story line is next in SCHOOLED.
The world building focuses on the take down and on-going investigation of the Baracoa Cartel, justice and revenge, and the battle between the heart and the job when lives are threatened in the line of duty.
STRIPPED is a sexy and flirty, character driven story line about forbidden love. The premise is engaging and edgy; the characters are energetic; the romance is sensual and intense.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2018
Detective Sawyer Matthews isn’t just having a bad day—he’s having the worst day. His hunt for the criminal who killed his team member has stalled and now… he’s got to play nice with his new, totally unwanted partner. It’s not that she isn’t qualified, or that he doesn’t like her—it’s because he knows what she looks like naked. So very, very naked.
Brooke Simmons finally landed her dream job working for H.E.A.T, an elite undercover detective squad, and she’s not giving up simply because she had a one-night-stand with her sullen—but undeniably sexy—new partner. They’ll just have to keep it professional. Easier said than done, considering their first case requires Sawyer to infiltrate a drug cartel operating out of a male strip show. Watching him do his best Magic Mike impression every night isn’t just hot—it’s torture.
Sawyer doesn’t need any distractions, yet his attraction to Brooke is explosive and he can’t resist going for round two. Or three. Or four. But as their investigation progresses and danger mounts, they’ll have to put their jobs, hearts, and lives on the line to fight… for each other, for survival, and for justice.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--STRIPPED is the first instalment in Tara Wyatt’s contemporary, adult Blue HEAT erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women who work for HEAT (High-Risk Evaluation and Action Team) of Atlanta, Georgia. This is Detectives Sawyer Matthews, and Brooke Simmons’ story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Brooke and Sawyer) STRIPPED is a forbidden romance story line focusing on the building relationship between APD’S undercover police detectives Sawyer Matthews, and Brooke Simmons. Brooke is the HEAT rookie, having risen to the position due to the murder of Sawyer’s last partner and best friend Ryan Walker-a murder Sawyer, and his fellow undercover operatives are having a difficult time to overcome. Sawyer doesn’t want a new partner but things go from bad to worse when Sawyer discovers his new partner is a one-night stand from days before. Setting plans into motion to take down the Baracoa Cartel and the men responsible for destroying so many lives, Brooke and Sawyer must go undercover at a local strip bar with connections to the drug cartel, wherein Sawyer becomes the nightly entertainment as they struggle to uncover and take down the people behind the murder, and the influx of a new designer drug hitting the streets. What ensues is the building but forbidden romance between Sawyer and Brooke, and the potential fall-out as their undercover operation begins to implode.
Brooke Simmons, as the newest member of Atlanta’s HEAT, knows she has to prove her worth but the battle is only beginning when Sawyer Matthews begins a personal campaign against the woman with whom he will fall in love. Sawyer doesn’t do relationships, and getting involved with his partner and fellow detective is a sure fire way to get kicked off the job. Unable to concentrate on the task at hand, Sawyer begins to make life a living h*ll for his new partner.
The relationship between Brooke and Sawyer is one of immediate attraction that begins as a one-night stand wherein neither one was willing to go beyond the here and now. Sawyer’s attraction to Brooke is palpable but his less than mature behaviour post hook-up, and his actions scream childish and adolescent; the sexual chemistry is off the charts. The sex scenes are erotic, intense and provocative.
We are introduced to Sawyer’s fellow detectives Jack Ward and Amelia Perez, as well as their captain DeMarcus Hill, and Brooke’s best friend, homicide detective Dani Harris, and Brooke’s grandmother Nan. The requisite evil has many faces. Jack and Rachel’s story line is next in SCHOOLED.
The world building focuses on the take down and on-going investigation of the Baracoa Cartel, justice and revenge, and the battle between the heart and the job when lives are threatened in the line of duty.
STRIPPED is a sexy and flirty, character driven story line about forbidden love. The premise is engaging and edgy; the characters are energetic; the romance is sensual and intense.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 26, 2018
Rating: 4.5 stars
Heat level: Hot!
Trigger warnings: Death of loved ones, torture
I think I've found a new niche: men in uniform. I thought it was just sports uniforms, but it seems I've got a thing for cops and firefighters, too. In this one, it's a cop show, with two undercover detectives partnered up after a mind-blowing one night stand. She's determined to prove herself, while he's a grumpy man who admits to finding his attraction to her overwhelmingly distracting. The sparks were flying.
Clothes were flying, too. I liked Brooke and Sawyer separately, with both showing dedication, intelligence, confidence, and humour. But together, they were incredible. The chemistry was off-the-charts, and there was a generous helping of heat without overshadowing the plot and characters. You know you've got a good romance when you're squirming in your seat just as much as the heroine! But they also had their deeper and sweeter moments. Under his gruff exterior, Sawyer was actually a warm and loving man, and it was Brooke who held things back.
I was captivated by the police work, too. There was a lot of cop drama action in here, with undercover operations and shoot-outs. Brooke was allowed to be such a badass, and Sawyer acknowledged and applauded her kickass ways. Instead of being such a dude and trying to one-up her or make her his sidekick, I never got the feeling he considered her anything less than equal. Together, they made a great though unpredictable team.
There were some laugh-out-loud moments thrown in, all courtesy of Nan. I loved Nan. I want to be Nan. She was so witty and wise, and a dirty old bird, too. Old lady goals right there.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book, focusing on Jack. From the first few chapters of this, I knew I wanted to see more of Jack, see a woman put him in his place and end his tomcat ways. And he's just so charming and warm. I also hope Amelia gets a story where she can find her happiness even after heartbreak.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heat level: Hot!
Trigger warnings: Death of loved ones, torture
I think I've found a new niche: men in uniform. I thought it was just sports uniforms, but it seems I've got a thing for cops and firefighters, too. In this one, it's a cop show, with two undercover detectives partnered up after a mind-blowing one night stand. She's determined to prove herself, while he's a grumpy man who admits to finding his attraction to her overwhelmingly distracting. The sparks were flying.
Clothes were flying, too. I liked Brooke and Sawyer separately, with both showing dedication, intelligence, confidence, and humour. But together, they were incredible. The chemistry was off-the-charts, and there was a generous helping of heat without overshadowing the plot and characters. You know you've got a good romance when you're squirming in your seat just as much as the heroine! But they also had their deeper and sweeter moments. Under his gruff exterior, Sawyer was actually a warm and loving man, and it was Brooke who held things back.
I was captivated by the police work, too. There was a lot of cop drama action in here, with undercover operations and shoot-outs. Brooke was allowed to be such a badass, and Sawyer acknowledged and applauded her kickass ways. Instead of being such a dude and trying to one-up her or make her his sidekick, I never got the feeling he considered her anything less than equal. Together, they made a great though unpredictable team.
There were some laugh-out-loud moments thrown in, all courtesy of Nan. I loved Nan. I want to be Nan. She was so witty and wise, and a dirty old bird, too. Old lady goals right there.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book, focusing on Jack. From the first few chapters of this, I knew I wanted to see more of Jack, see a woman put him in his place and end his tomcat ways. And he's just so charming and warm. I also hope Amelia gets a story where she can find her happiness even after heartbreak.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 20, 2018
Tara Wyatt's writing style is great. The story and characters are all so engaging, and I found myself totally sucked in. I would totally want to hang out at The Speakeasy with Sawyer, Brooke, Jack and Amelia - and recently, wanting to be friends with the main characters has sort of become my litmus test for a great romance novel, haha.
Sawyer is dealing with the death of his partner, Ryan, and certainly doesn't want a new partner - especially the bombshell he had a one-night stand with! Especially since there's a department policy against fraternization with one's partner... The sparks sure fly in this one! There's an almost enemies to lovers vibe as they both try to resist their attraction, but a bit of a friends to lover vibe as well, and ahhh, I can't even. Why do I even try to write reviews? Just go read it. This one's a keeper, OK?
The best characters are fully-fleshed out, with wonderful qualities, failings, quirks... Wyatt really delivers on that with Sawyer and Brooke, and even with their partners Jack and Amelia (who are side characters, but I assume are the leads in the next two books in the series). We don't get much of Sawyer's brothers either, but from what we do get I'd really like to read their books as well, please. (Are you listening, Ms. Wyatt?) I
n addition to an excellent romantic storyline and heaps of sexual tension (and really meltingly hot sex scenes, don't forget those!) there is also the cop/detective aspect of this book. Sawyer goes undercover as a male stripper to infiltrate a drug ring that possibly involves the biker gang and/or cartel that murdered his partner, so there's that who detective/spy element to the story as well. I don't normally go much for mystery in my romance, but I DO enjoy action, and this really delivered in a way I enjoyed as being a detective/mystery/action type of deal while still mainly and unrepentantly being a romance.
This is the first book in the series, and you bet your ass I pre-ordered book #2, Schooled. This can be read as a stand-alone, though there are little teaser bits of minor-ish plotline left hanging... Enough to make it so I just HAVE TO KNOW!!
Sawyer is dealing with the death of his partner, Ryan, and certainly doesn't want a new partner - especially the bombshell he had a one-night stand with! Especially since there's a department policy against fraternization with one's partner... The sparks sure fly in this one! There's an almost enemies to lovers vibe as they both try to resist their attraction, but a bit of a friends to lover vibe as well, and ahhh, I can't even. Why do I even try to write reviews? Just go read it. This one's a keeper, OK?
The best characters are fully-fleshed out, with wonderful qualities, failings, quirks... Wyatt really delivers on that with Sawyer and Brooke, and even with their partners Jack and Amelia (who are side characters, but I assume are the leads in the next two books in the series). We don't get much of Sawyer's brothers either, but from what we do get I'd really like to read their books as well, please. (Are you listening, Ms. Wyatt?) I
n addition to an excellent romantic storyline and heaps of sexual tension (and really meltingly hot sex scenes, don't forget those!) there is also the cop/detective aspect of this book. Sawyer goes undercover as a male stripper to infiltrate a drug ring that possibly involves the biker gang and/or cartel that murdered his partner, so there's that who detective/spy element to the story as well. I don't normally go much for mystery in my romance, but I DO enjoy action, and this really delivered in a way I enjoyed as being a detective/mystery/action type of deal while still mainly and unrepentantly being a romance.
This is the first book in the series, and you bet your ass I pre-ordered book #2, Schooled. This can be read as a stand-alone, though there are little teaser bits of minor-ish plotline left hanging... Enough to make it so I just HAVE TO KNOW!!
May 19, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 5/19/18.
I've never been to a strip club--never wanted to go to one (true confessions time, here--just watching Magic Mike made me cringe in mortification, and I'm pretty sure I fell asleep at one point. I know, I know--I'll be over in the corner, hanging my head in shame) but the premise of this story--a brand-new detective finding out her new partner is her one night stand, and her first major assignment involves her having to watch him pose undercover as a male stripper--made it one I couldn't resist.
And I'm so very glad I didn't!
Even though my inner rules-follower shook her head in dismay every time Sawyer and Brooke proved that rules were made to be broken by giving in to the attraction between them while working together (really, how did they not get busted sooner?) I absolutely loved the two of them together. They practically lit up the pages of my ereader every time they were together, and even as I worried that they'd both get their butts fired I was cheering them on every step of the way.
And reading about the stripping scenes was definitely not a hardship. I didn't feel sleepy at all. ;)
Ms. Wyatt also gave us two more HEAT team members to look forward to in future books, love-'em-and-leave-'em playboy detective Jack Ward and still-grieving Amelia Perez. Plus, we're sure to see more of Sawyer and Brooke in their books, so...win-win!
Tara Wyatt is a new-to-me author, but I'll absolutely be reading more from her in the future. I absolutely cannot wait to see Jack go undercover at a preschool, LOL :)
Rating: 4 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I've never been to a strip club--never wanted to go to one (true confessions time, here--just watching Magic Mike made me cringe in mortification, and I'm pretty sure I fell asleep at one point. I know, I know--I'll be over in the corner, hanging my head in shame) but the premise of this story--a brand-new detective finding out her new partner is her one night stand, and her first major assignment involves her having to watch him pose undercover as a male stripper--made it one I couldn't resist.
And I'm so very glad I didn't!
Even though my inner rules-follower shook her head in dismay every time Sawyer and Brooke proved that rules were made to be broken by giving in to the attraction between them while working together (really, how did they not get busted sooner?) I absolutely loved the two of them together. They practically lit up the pages of my ereader every time they were together, and even as I worried that they'd both get their butts fired I was cheering them on every step of the way.
And reading about the stripping scenes was definitely not a hardship. I didn't feel sleepy at all. ;)
Ms. Wyatt also gave us two more HEAT team members to look forward to in future books, love-'em-and-leave-'em playboy detective Jack Ward and still-grieving Amelia Perez. Plus, we're sure to see more of Sawyer and Brooke in their books, so...win-win!
Tara Wyatt is a new-to-me author, but I'll absolutely be reading more from her in the future. I absolutely cannot wait to see Jack go undercover at a preschool, LOL :)
Rating: 4 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 31, 2018
This is the first book I have read by this author and it definitely won't be the last.
This book has it all - danger, suspense, banter, anger, and sexy times. The chemistry is off the charts with the two leads. I loved reading about the thoughts that each of them had all throughout the book. It made me really connect with them.
I loved he stripping scenes. They were so easy to visualize in my head and I also felt so bad for Brooke.
This book has it all - danger, suspense, banter, anger, and sexy times. The chemistry is off the charts with the two leads. I loved reading about the thoughts that each of them had all throughout the book. It made me really connect with them.
I loved he stripping scenes. They were so easy to visualize in my head and I also felt so bad for Brooke.
May 20, 2018
Highly entertaining, erotic action filled romance that plays on a reversal of roles. Sawyer and Brooke had a great one night stand but then they found out they were going to be partners in the elite police unit HEAT. Talk about awkward, not to mention the fact that they now had to go undercover to bust up a drug cartel. The cover? Sawyer is supposed to get the job as a male stripper and Brooke to guard him. I love this concept! This is one romance that the female saves the day and the guy is the one needing protection. There are a lot of factors in play but overall Stripped will definitely satisfy your cravings for the sexy, emotional sometimes humorous actuonnpacked romance. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
*ARC provided*
*ARC provided*
July 11, 2018
Well if that’s not one of the hottest things I’ve read this year, I will eat my favorite leggings. How awesome to read about TWO hot cops. It’s like Christmas. And a hero has an attitude problem AND shows more emotional maturity than his lady love? SOLD. Gimme more.
May 23, 2018
I've waited ages and ages for a romance novel that has this plot. I am pleased to say that Stripped delivered.
May 15, 2018
Great start to a new series. LOVED the Magic Mike vibes while he's undercover. But beyond that, I just loved the characters and chemistry and writing here, too. I had a great time reading this book. Super hot, which is always important (to me, at least!).
I cannot wait for the rest of the series, both to continue the suspense/revenge plot but also to see more of these characters get their HEA. Next up will be undercover at a private school and falling for the assistant principal. HERE FOR IT. Is it November yet?!
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
I cannot wait for the rest of the series, both to continue the suspense/revenge plot but also to see more of these characters get their HEA. Next up will be undercover at a private school and falling for the assistant principal. HERE FOR IT. Is it November yet?!
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
May 29, 2018
God, this book was good. Heart and heat, everything I love in my books. And then some. A Magic Mike-esque, romantic suspense that I couldn't get enough of. FLIPPING loved it. (Especially Sawyer. SWOON.) Definitely recommend it.
April 9, 2018
I enjoyed the author's voice and think with the right plot line I'd really enjoy her book. Unfortunately this one just didn't work for me.
This was pitched as 21 Jump Street meets Magic Mike. Unfortunately neither premise felt like the main story. There wasn't enough strip club action or enough of the undercover investigation for me. A lot of the story focused on other aspects when all I really wanted was more stripping and more investigating.
I also didn't immediately connect with the characters. Their one night stand didn't work for me. We knew nothing about either of them and I couldn't feel their chemistry. I ended up skippinga fair portion of their sex scenes because I just didn't feel like they really connected emotionally or physically.
This was pitched as 21 Jump Street meets Magic Mike. Unfortunately neither premise felt like the main story. There wasn't enough strip club action or enough of the undercover investigation for me. A lot of the story focused on other aspects when all I really wanted was more stripping and more investigating.
I also didn't immediately connect with the characters. Their one night stand didn't work for me. We knew nothing about either of them and I couldn't feel their chemistry. I ended up skippinga fair portion of their sex scenes because I just didn't feel like they really connected emotionally or physically.
October 9, 2024
From the very start, STRIPPED was a fantastic read and I loved just about every moment of it. Tara Wyatt is a master when it comes to steamy chemistry and off the charts sexiness! Brooke has wanted to be a member of the elite police division, HEAT, for a long time and she won't let anything stand in her way, even Sawyer. I was on board with Brooke from the very beginning; she was a fantastic heroine who's outspoken, dedicated, and tough. Of course, this determination also means that Brooke is stubborn and she has a few moments where she lets fear get in the way of finding happiness.
As a counterpoint to Brooke's enthusiasm and excitement to be on the team is the more jaded and dented Sawyer who hasn't recovered from his partner's death. Ryan was his best friend and Sawyer wants justice by taking down the local cartel leader, Hernandez, who Sawyer knows -- but can't prove -- killed Ryan. Sawyer was sexy and growly but he also let his twisted emotions set him on the wrong foot with Brooke. Sawyer doesn't want her as a partner because he can't stop thinking about her, so he tries to get her transferred off of HEAT by implying she's not suited for the job. I wasn't crazy about Sawyer blaming Brooke for his attraction and inability to control himself and I felt that Brooke forgave Sawyer too fast. She comes to understand that he's grieving Ryan and that grief can make a person do stupid things but I guess I'm not as forgiving.
To complicate matters even more, Brooke and Sawyer are assigned to investigate a male strip club to find which dancer is selling drugs that may connect back to Hernandez. Now here's where you talk about steamy; my Kindle practically caught on fire in my hands because this book was so sexy. I loved that grumpy Sawyer had this secret, sexy-stripper side to him and it acts as the catalyst that brings Brooke and Sawyer back together. She can't resist him even when she knows she's risking her job by getting involved with her partner. Rounding out the cast are the other members of the HEAT team, Jack and Amelia and I can't wait to get more about them, as well as Brooke's detective friend. I am 100% on board for this series!
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“I don't know if I believe in fate, but I sure as fuck believe in us.”
As a counterpoint to Brooke's enthusiasm and excitement to be on the team is the more jaded and dented Sawyer who hasn't recovered from his partner's death. Ryan was his best friend and Sawyer wants justice by taking down the local cartel leader, Hernandez, who Sawyer knows -- but can't prove -- killed Ryan. Sawyer was sexy and growly but he also let his twisted emotions set him on the wrong foot with Brooke. Sawyer doesn't want her as a partner because he can't stop thinking about her, so he tries to get her transferred off of HEAT by implying she's not suited for the job. I wasn't crazy about Sawyer blaming Brooke for his attraction and inability to control himself and I felt that Brooke forgave Sawyer too fast. She comes to understand that he's grieving Ryan and that grief can make a person do stupid things but I guess I'm not as forgiving.
To complicate matters even more, Brooke and Sawyer are assigned to investigate a male strip club to find which dancer is selling drugs that may connect back to Hernandez. Now here's where you talk about steamy; my Kindle practically caught on fire in my hands because this book was so sexy. I loved that grumpy Sawyer had this secret, sexy-stripper side to him and it acts as the catalyst that brings Brooke and Sawyer back together. She can't resist him even when she knows she's risking her job by getting involved with her partner. Rounding out the cast are the other members of the HEAT team, Jack and Amelia and I can't wait to get more about them, as well as Brooke's detective friend. I am 100% on board for this series!
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“I don't know if I believe in fate, but I sure as fuck believe in us.”
May 18, 2018
Stripped (Blue HEAT #1) by Tara Wyatt
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Murder, kidnapping, torture
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Brooke is a strong character to begin with. When you meet her, she's licking her wounds after a humiliating debacle at a wedding...meeting her date's wife. Whew! However, she finds the perfect distraction... a bad decision, but a yummy one all the same. My first impressions of Brooke are that she's steady and will make a great character.
Then you have Sawyer. He's grieving the loss of his partner and despite knowing there wasn't much he could have done to prevent it, the guilt is eating at him. When he sees Brooke at the bar, something calls to him. Their one night is full of steam and passion, but Sawyer has a killer to find.
When Brooke walks in to her new job and sees that her new partner will be none other than Sawyer, she doesn't cower nor does she turn in to a vapid character. I really liked that about her. She stands up to his arrogant and cocky ways and even makes him think twice about making her mad. I loved how Sawyer, despite his feeling distracted, is constantly wanting to protect Brooke too.
This is a fast paced story with a lot going on. You have the main characters, but you also have the secondary characters who make this story just as strong. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Murder, kidnapping, torture
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Brooke is a strong character to begin with. When you meet her, she's licking her wounds after a humiliating debacle at a wedding...meeting her date's wife. Whew! However, she finds the perfect distraction... a bad decision, but a yummy one all the same. My first impressions of Brooke are that she's steady and will make a great character.
Then you have Sawyer. He's grieving the loss of his partner and despite knowing there wasn't much he could have done to prevent it, the guilt is eating at him. When he sees Brooke at the bar, something calls to him. Their one night is full of steam and passion, but Sawyer has a killer to find.
When Brooke walks in to her new job and sees that her new partner will be none other than Sawyer, she doesn't cower nor does she turn in to a vapid character. I really liked that about her. She stands up to his arrogant and cocky ways and even makes him think twice about making her mad. I loved how Sawyer, despite his feeling distracted, is constantly wanting to protect Brooke too.
This is a fast paced story with a lot going on. You have the main characters, but you also have the secondary characters who make this story just as strong. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
May 19, 2018
There’s a cloud of grief hanging over the men and women of the Blue H.E.A.T. team as they’re still trying to recover from the loss of one of their own, swearing revenge against the Baracoa drug cartel. With their revenge driving them this story soon becomes a sexy and suspenseful thrill ride featuring a clandestine romance and heart-pounding action. Along with keeping readers on the edge of their seats, readers will find themselves blushing as they watch work partners put their lives and hearts on the line in a romance teeming with sensuality.
With the death of his friend and partner Ryan, Detective Sawyer Matthews is still struggling with his guilt and anger. Nothing seems to satisfy him and nothing brings him happiness as he’s just going through the motions while focusing solely on revenge. A lone moment of feeling in a haze of grief though comes courtesy of a mystery woman he can’t seem to forget. When that woman turns out to be the newest member of the Blue H.E.A.T. team, and his new partner, things become complicated as both of them go undercover with their lives and futures put in jeopardy. Sawyer’s an immensely likable hero clearly hurting when readers first meet him. He’s so focused on revenge that he‘s given up on living for himself. It’s not until he meets Brooke that his eyes are opened up and he decides to go after what he wants. Though his heart has been bruised by his ex-wife he’s the first to admit his feelings, and to try to get a HEA with Brooke, which made me like him all the more. His undercover work also added an extra layer of sensuality to this romance and gave tantalizing insight into the world of stripping. The interactions with his fellow dancers were entertaining, with playful banter, and I would love to see this part of the story break off into its own series. These scenes were vividly depicted and had me feeling like a part of the audience as jealousy finally pushed Brooke into action. Though Sawyer is a bit standoffish at the start he quickly showed a softer, more caring side, that had him wearing his heart on his sleeve.
Brooke Simmons is virtually alone in the world with only her elderly grandma left to care for her. She’s experienced a lot of losses in life and it’s hardened her heart. When it comes to romance she has a long list of bad relationships with bad men that are a result of her not wanting to be hurt. If she doesn’t care about anyone then she can’t be hurt by their leaving. It’s a sad state that she’s in when she first meets Sawyer and their unforgettable night sets them on a rocky road to romance that kept me glued to the pages. All Brooke’s ever wanted to be was a detective so she’s determined to succeed as the newest member of the Blue H.E.A.T. team despite Sawyer’s initial resistance. On the job she’s strong-willed and self-assured, a badass with a gun, but off the clock she’s scared and uncertain when it comes to matters of the heart. In some ways she’s still a little girl and it saddened me to see her so uncertain when it came to love. Her and Sawyer are a crackling couple who are a formidable team on the job and off, brought together at a low point for both of them. When they need each other the most, in both subtle and blatant ways, they end up riding to the rescue in scenes that had me cheering.
From the first page to the last this is an exhilarating tale teeming with sensuality and suspense. Though there are elements that have been done before I still found myself captivated by the action and romance here. It’s a fairly straight forward story that lays the groundwork for the next installments in this series as a drug cartel continues to wreak havoc with heroes and villains not always clear. Sawyer’s stripping was an entertaining entry into the cartel too and I felt that those scenes blended well with the rest of the story, though I wish there was more of a conclusion to his time there. Sawyer and Brooke are an appealing couple who have a lot in common, their dedication to the job a strong bond between them. They’re a fun and flirty couple with their forbidden romance sweet yet erotically-charged which had me rooting for them every step of the way. Alongside this likable main couple comes a cast of intriguing secondary characters. The glimpses readers got of Sawyer’s fellow detectives has me counting down the days until the next series installment. These detectives are hurting too, especially Amelia, who also lost a piece of her heart when Ryan died and who’s clearly still in mourning. She’s a tough cookie though, snarky and quite capable of being one of the guys. Rich boy Jack is a player who became a detective to snub his nose at his rich roots. He’s fun-loving and loyal to his coworkers, but shows no sign of wanting to settle down. These characters made the story richer and I look forward to their future roles in bringing down the Baracoa drug cartel. Though the ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly, with a few too many strings left hanging, I still recommend this series starter that made my heart race while pulling at my heartstrings.
With the death of his friend and partner Ryan, Detective Sawyer Matthews is still struggling with his guilt and anger. Nothing seems to satisfy him and nothing brings him happiness as he’s just going through the motions while focusing solely on revenge. A lone moment of feeling in a haze of grief though comes courtesy of a mystery woman he can’t seem to forget. When that woman turns out to be the newest member of the Blue H.E.A.T. team, and his new partner, things become complicated as both of them go undercover with their lives and futures put in jeopardy. Sawyer’s an immensely likable hero clearly hurting when readers first meet him. He’s so focused on revenge that he‘s given up on living for himself. It’s not until he meets Brooke that his eyes are opened up and he decides to go after what he wants. Though his heart has been bruised by his ex-wife he’s the first to admit his feelings, and to try to get a HEA with Brooke, which made me like him all the more. His undercover work also added an extra layer of sensuality to this romance and gave tantalizing insight into the world of stripping. The interactions with his fellow dancers were entertaining, with playful banter, and I would love to see this part of the story break off into its own series. These scenes were vividly depicted and had me feeling like a part of the audience as jealousy finally pushed Brooke into action. Though Sawyer is a bit standoffish at the start he quickly showed a softer, more caring side, that had him wearing his heart on his sleeve.
Brooke Simmons is virtually alone in the world with only her elderly grandma left to care for her. She’s experienced a lot of losses in life and it’s hardened her heart. When it comes to romance she has a long list of bad relationships with bad men that are a result of her not wanting to be hurt. If she doesn’t care about anyone then she can’t be hurt by their leaving. It’s a sad state that she’s in when she first meets Sawyer and their unforgettable night sets them on a rocky road to romance that kept me glued to the pages. All Brooke’s ever wanted to be was a detective so she’s determined to succeed as the newest member of the Blue H.E.A.T. team despite Sawyer’s initial resistance. On the job she’s strong-willed and self-assured, a badass with a gun, but off the clock she’s scared and uncertain when it comes to matters of the heart. In some ways she’s still a little girl and it saddened me to see her so uncertain when it came to love. Her and Sawyer are a crackling couple who are a formidable team on the job and off, brought together at a low point for both of them. When they need each other the most, in both subtle and blatant ways, they end up riding to the rescue in scenes that had me cheering.
From the first page to the last this is an exhilarating tale teeming with sensuality and suspense. Though there are elements that have been done before I still found myself captivated by the action and romance here. It’s a fairly straight forward story that lays the groundwork for the next installments in this series as a drug cartel continues to wreak havoc with heroes and villains not always clear. Sawyer’s stripping was an entertaining entry into the cartel too and I felt that those scenes blended well with the rest of the story, though I wish there was more of a conclusion to his time there. Sawyer and Brooke are an appealing couple who have a lot in common, their dedication to the job a strong bond between them. They’re a fun and flirty couple with their forbidden romance sweet yet erotically-charged which had me rooting for them every step of the way. Alongside this likable main couple comes a cast of intriguing secondary characters. The glimpses readers got of Sawyer’s fellow detectives has me counting down the days until the next series installment. These detectives are hurting too, especially Amelia, who also lost a piece of her heart when Ryan died and who’s clearly still in mourning. She’s a tough cookie though, snarky and quite capable of being one of the guys. Rich boy Jack is a player who became a detective to snub his nose at his rich roots. He’s fun-loving and loyal to his coworkers, but shows no sign of wanting to settle down. These characters made the story richer and I look forward to their future roles in bringing down the Baracoa drug cartel. Though the ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly, with a few too many strings left hanging, I still recommend this series starter that made my heart race while pulling at my heartstrings.
May 16, 2018
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews (Blog post MAY have additional content such as playlists, interviews, giveaways, etc).
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? While mourning the loss of a murdered friend in a bar, Detective Sawyer Matthews meets Brooke Simmons and they spend one incredibly hot night together that neither can forget. When Sawyer’s boss introduces him to his new teammate and partner, he’s shocked and not at all happy when he comes face to face with Brooke. The rules and regulations say that a personal relationship between the two of them is forbidden but their attraction is still burning hot. A distraction Sawyer doesn’t need as he and the rest of the team look for the people responsible for murdering one of their own. Brooke meanwhile is struggling to find her place on her new team. She’s worked damn hard to get a spot on the elite team and she isn’t going to give it up just because she and Sawyer can’t get over their night together. Complicating matters is their first mission together in which Sawyer has to go undercover as a stripper and Brooke has to play the part of a groupie.
Overall reaction to the book? Ah, where to start? From the moment Sawyer and Brooke meet there’s this thick tension between them that only escalates as the plot of Stripped moves along. I loved both of these characters but I admit that Brooke is my favorite. I loved her confidence in her personal and professional life. She’s strong, intelligent, and kicks serious butt at her job but at the same time she seems like the kind of character you can just hang out with and have a solid friendship with. There is one that thing really stood out to me with Brooke though and it all has to do with the author: Brooke isn’t one of those silly females who suddenly can’t do her job when she’s faced with a handsome face. She doesn’t need saving, she’s a member of H.E.A.T for crying out loud! That means the best of the best and those skills didn’t go away because of Sawyer. THANK YOU TARA WYATT for not turning Brooke into an idiot just so Sawyer could have the chance to play big, strong hero.
Sawyer was closed off for about a quarter of the book, he was grieving so I understood that. I thought he was going to be a brooding, grumpy, growly hero which he was but there was more to him than that. Slowly Sawyer started showing more of who he was and yup, I knew Brooke wasn’t going to win her fight to stay away from him after that. Sawyer is delicious. That’s the best way to describe him. He’s this strong, silent type but he feels very deeply. His partner was murdered and while Sawyer wants justice, he also doesn’t know how to handle his grief and throughout the book the author shows that softer, more vulnerable side of him. At heart he’s a solid guy, someone that you could lean on though he doesn’t appear to be when he’s first introduced. That’s my favorite type of character and Sawyer doesn’t disappoint, he’s got humor, heart, and sex appeal in spades.
Sawyer and Brooke are great characters on their own but they’re great as a couple, even when they’re not admitting anything more than a physical attraction. They’re constantly around each other after Brooke is assigned to them and while that just makes the tension between them even thicker, it doesn’t make them stupid in their work. I loved the balance between their personal relationship and their working one. Wyatt not only balanced out both sides of the characters’ lives but did so in a way that allowed Sawyer and Brooke to grow in both areas. It wasn’t all work and no play though because these two built up a lot of sexual tension that had to go somewhere and that was yet another area that Stripped excelled at. Sawyer and Brooke were hot, hot, hot together but even those scenes were layered with humor and growth. I loved their relationship from start to finish.
My favorite scene? When Sawyer finds out that HE will be the one going undercover as a stripper. Oh how I laughed at that. My second favorite? Whenever he has to “practice” his routines or when he has to perform.
Stripped is for the most part Sawyer and Brooke’s story but these two are part of a four person team and the author takes the time to introduce and let readers get a feel for the other two members, Jack and Amelia. It was just as easy to fall for those two as it was for Brooke and Sawyer. I can’t wait for their stories. Especially Amelia’s because she wears grief like a second skin and I want her to be happy again. That’s what this book does, it entertains but it also makes readers care about these characters and really root for them to get their own happy ending.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. The suspense, the action, the character relationships… It all makes for a great read and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? While mourning the loss of a murdered friend in a bar, Detective Sawyer Matthews meets Brooke Simmons and they spend one incredibly hot night together that neither can forget. When Sawyer’s boss introduces him to his new teammate and partner, he’s shocked and not at all happy when he comes face to face with Brooke. The rules and regulations say that a personal relationship between the two of them is forbidden but their attraction is still burning hot. A distraction Sawyer doesn’t need as he and the rest of the team look for the people responsible for murdering one of their own. Brooke meanwhile is struggling to find her place on her new team. She’s worked damn hard to get a spot on the elite team and she isn’t going to give it up just because she and Sawyer can’t get over their night together. Complicating matters is their first mission together in which Sawyer has to go undercover as a stripper and Brooke has to play the part of a groupie.
Overall reaction to the book? Ah, where to start? From the moment Sawyer and Brooke meet there’s this thick tension between them that only escalates as the plot of Stripped moves along. I loved both of these characters but I admit that Brooke is my favorite. I loved her confidence in her personal and professional life. She’s strong, intelligent, and kicks serious butt at her job but at the same time she seems like the kind of character you can just hang out with and have a solid friendship with. There is one that thing really stood out to me with Brooke though and it all has to do with the author: Brooke isn’t one of those silly females who suddenly can’t do her job when she’s faced with a handsome face. She doesn’t need saving, she’s a member of H.E.A.T for crying out loud! That means the best of the best and those skills didn’t go away because of Sawyer. THANK YOU TARA WYATT for not turning Brooke into an idiot just so Sawyer could have the chance to play big, strong hero.
Sawyer was closed off for about a quarter of the book, he was grieving so I understood that. I thought he was going to be a brooding, grumpy, growly hero which he was but there was more to him than that. Slowly Sawyer started showing more of who he was and yup, I knew Brooke wasn’t going to win her fight to stay away from him after that. Sawyer is delicious. That’s the best way to describe him. He’s this strong, silent type but he feels very deeply. His partner was murdered and while Sawyer wants justice, he also doesn’t know how to handle his grief and throughout the book the author shows that softer, more vulnerable side of him. At heart he’s a solid guy, someone that you could lean on though he doesn’t appear to be when he’s first introduced. That’s my favorite type of character and Sawyer doesn’t disappoint, he’s got humor, heart, and sex appeal in spades.
Sawyer and Brooke are great characters on their own but they’re great as a couple, even when they’re not admitting anything more than a physical attraction. They’re constantly around each other after Brooke is assigned to them and while that just makes the tension between them even thicker, it doesn’t make them stupid in their work. I loved the balance between their personal relationship and their working one. Wyatt not only balanced out both sides of the characters’ lives but did so in a way that allowed Sawyer and Brooke to grow in both areas. It wasn’t all work and no play though because these two built up a lot of sexual tension that had to go somewhere and that was yet another area that Stripped excelled at. Sawyer and Brooke were hot, hot, hot together but even those scenes were layered with humor and growth. I loved their relationship from start to finish.
My favorite scene? When Sawyer finds out that HE will be the one going undercover as a stripper. Oh how I laughed at that. My second favorite? Whenever he has to “practice” his routines or when he has to perform.
Stripped is for the most part Sawyer and Brooke’s story but these two are part of a four person team and the author takes the time to introduce and let readers get a feel for the other two members, Jack and Amelia. It was just as easy to fall for those two as it was for Brooke and Sawyer. I can’t wait for their stories. Especially Amelia’s because she wears grief like a second skin and I want her to be happy again. That’s what this book does, it entertains but it also makes readers care about these characters and really root for them to get their own happy ending.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. The suspense, the action, the character relationships… It all makes for a great read and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
May 1, 2018
A promising start to a new series featuring sexy cops (male and female, yay) who work together on an elite undercover detective squad in Atlanta.
After Sawyer's partner is brutally murdered by a drug gang, he is dreading working with someone new. To make matters even worse, his new partner is Brooke, the sexy as hell woman he recently had a the best sex of his life with during what he thought would be a one night stand.
Relationships between partners are strictly forbidden, and Brooke is determined as hell to not let her fling with Sawyer ruin her new job with HEAT.
The joke's on both of them when they are assigned an undercover mission at a local strip club in the hopes of busting the gang responsible for Sawyer's partner's death. And no, it's not Brooke who'll be donning the glittery thong...
Sawyer's sexy routines and Brooke's role as his obsessed groupie make keeping their "hands off" promise a bit hard to keep and stands to ruin the investigation.
I've been on a roll with edgy, sexy-cop thrillers lately (mostly Tessa Bailey), so this was fun to meet a new author. I adored the premise and can't wait to read more about the rest of the partners. I thought Sawyer was super hot, and the scene where he practices for his stripper audition with Brooke was whoa.
What kept me from LOVING this book was some pacing issues. I wanted more comedy, stripping fun times, and a bit less of the angsty "dead partner," evil crime lord, kidnapping, dead grandma business. Brooke also felt a little one-dimensional.
Thank you to Avon for the ARC!
After Sawyer's partner is brutally murdered by a drug gang, he is dreading working with someone new. To make matters even worse, his new partner is Brooke, the sexy as hell woman he recently had a the best sex of his life with during what he thought would be a one night stand.
Relationships between partners are strictly forbidden, and Brooke is determined as hell to not let her fling with Sawyer ruin her new job with HEAT.
The joke's on both of them when they are assigned an undercover mission at a local strip club in the hopes of busting the gang responsible for Sawyer's partner's death. And no, it's not Brooke who'll be donning the glittery thong...
Sawyer's sexy routines and Brooke's role as his obsessed groupie make keeping their "hands off" promise a bit hard to keep and stands to ruin the investigation.
I've been on a roll with edgy, sexy-cop thrillers lately (mostly Tessa Bailey), so this was fun to meet a new author. I adored the premise and can't wait to read more about the rest of the partners. I thought Sawyer was super hot, and the scene where he practices for his stripper audition with Brooke was whoa.
What kept me from LOVING this book was some pacing issues. I wanted more comedy, stripping fun times, and a bit less of the angsty "dead partner," evil crime lord, kidnapping, dead grandma business. Brooke also felt a little one-dimensional.
Thank you to Avon for the ARC!
May 13, 2018
I liked this first book in Tara Wyatt’s newest series. She takes on the police force and an elite division within the Atlanta police department. She blends humor, sex and romance with a little suspense to create a wonderful story about moving on.
Detective Sawyer Matthews has just lost his partner and best friend to an on the job shooting. They were trailing a drug lord to get evidence when Ryan was ambushed and shot. Sawyer vows to get Ernesto Hernandez if it is the last thing he does. Sawyer doesn’t expect the case to become so complicated or to lead him into unusual places.
Brooke Simmons has a habit of picking the wrong guy. When her latest boyfriend turns out to be married, Brooke goes to the bar to drown her sorrows and ends up meeting a man who makes her forget the boyfriend’s name and her own name. Brooke gets a promotion at work and invited to join the elite HEAT branch of the Atlanta police department. Life is great—until she arrives at her new job to find that her new partner is the man she spent the night with. Brooke never thought she would see Sawyer again and now they are partners.
Things become even more complicated between them when their sexual attraction flairs. Dating your partner is a fire able offense in the APD. These two can’t hide their chemistry and when Sawyer tries to get Brooke transferred, their relationship heats up even more. Being in a dangerous profession and forced to work with someone you can’t forget you saw naked challenges both Brooke and Sawyer.
I liked how Tara Wyatt blends in the hunt for Ryan’s killer with the drama of being in a partnership that doesn’t allow you to express your true feelings. Neither Brooke nor Sawyer really know how they feel about each other beyond the sizzling heat. The sex scenes are smoking. They don’t want to break the rules, but confessing their attraction without being sure of the outcome could hurt both of their careers.
I also appreciate the other story lines with the members of HEAT and where this series could go. I look forward to reading the next in this series.
Detective Sawyer Matthews has just lost his partner and best friend to an on the job shooting. They were trailing a drug lord to get evidence when Ryan was ambushed and shot. Sawyer vows to get Ernesto Hernandez if it is the last thing he does. Sawyer doesn’t expect the case to become so complicated or to lead him into unusual places.
Brooke Simmons has a habit of picking the wrong guy. When her latest boyfriend turns out to be married, Brooke goes to the bar to drown her sorrows and ends up meeting a man who makes her forget the boyfriend’s name and her own name. Brooke gets a promotion at work and invited to join the elite HEAT branch of the Atlanta police department. Life is great—until she arrives at her new job to find that her new partner is the man she spent the night with. Brooke never thought she would see Sawyer again and now they are partners.
Things become even more complicated between them when their sexual attraction flairs. Dating your partner is a fire able offense in the APD. These two can’t hide their chemistry and when Sawyer tries to get Brooke transferred, their relationship heats up even more. Being in a dangerous profession and forced to work with someone you can’t forget you saw naked challenges both Brooke and Sawyer.
I liked how Tara Wyatt blends in the hunt for Ryan’s killer with the drama of being in a partnership that doesn’t allow you to express your true feelings. Neither Brooke nor Sawyer really know how they feel about each other beyond the sizzling heat. The sex scenes are smoking. They don’t want to break the rules, but confessing their attraction without being sure of the outcome could hurt both of their careers.
I also appreciate the other story lines with the members of HEAT and where this series could go. I look forward to reading the next in this series.
February 1, 2021
It was a little slow getting started, but the depressing bits are important to the world building and story as a whole. There is a strong, career oriented, mouthy heroine which always works for me. There is plenty of humor and snark between hero and heroine as well as sexy times and more tender bits.
Of course, now I'm into the series and want to read more. Unfortunately, the next book (Schooled) shows on Goodreads as published April 2019 but there are no reviews and it's not listed on Amazon at all. Dang it. I guess I'll leave it on my next in series list in case it magically appears.
Of course, now I'm into the series and want to read more. Unfortunately, the next book (Schooled) shows on Goodreads as published April 2019 but there are no reviews and it's not listed on Amazon at all. Dang it. I guess I'll leave it on my next in series list in case it magically appears.
June 19, 2018
Posted on What I'm Reading
So, I had a chance to finished Stripped by Tara Wyatt. It had a Magic Mike kind of vibe, but with a better plot line. We aren't even going to my thoughts on Magic Mike, but I did liked Stripped. Plus, I'm looking forward to other books in the series.
In The Blue Heat series we basically have these top notch detectives that go undercover to get the bad guys. Makes me think of Law and Order: SVU or Criminal Intent, anyway. However, one of there guys died and the team is dealing with the aftermath. However, they are going to get the bad guy. Which leads us to Sawyer Matthews who wants to get out of his headspace for a night and ends up hooking up with Brooke Simmons who has bad luck with men. Only later to find out that Sawyer is her new partner. To say they had a rough working relationship at first would be an understatement. Yet, they eventually find there groove at work and off the clock.
Like I said we have Sawyer and Brooke, and they are super hot when they finally get together. Seriously, some of the that sexual tension is pretty intense. That alone would make you need a cold shower. At the beginning of the story Sawyer is pretty intense and a dick. Some of the things he does in the story makes you want to slap him. Fortunately, he does get his head out of his ass. Brooke is pretty much kickass kind of girl. She works hard to get where she is today. I admire her for most of the story. It wasn't until the end I wanted to smack the girl, for being a girl. I get why she was so pissed, but I still wanted to smack her.
Basically, Stripped was a much better read than watching Magic Mike. Seriously, the plot is SOOOO much better. If you liked watching Magic Mike then you might enjoyed Stripped, because it had a better plot. Plus, who doesn't love a good cop romance with one of the detectives who goes into an assignment as a stripper. Plus, it's a hot read, if you are looking for a little steam. The beginning is a little slow, but story does progress. Like I said I'm looking forward to more in the series. The next one goes undercover at a school. Fun times there.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss
So, I had a chance to finished Stripped by Tara Wyatt. It had a Magic Mike kind of vibe, but with a better plot line. We aren't even going to my thoughts on Magic Mike, but I did liked Stripped. Plus, I'm looking forward to other books in the series.
In The Blue Heat series we basically have these top notch detectives that go undercover to get the bad guys. Makes me think of Law and Order: SVU or Criminal Intent, anyway. However, one of there guys died and the team is dealing with the aftermath. However, they are going to get the bad guy. Which leads us to Sawyer Matthews who wants to get out of his headspace for a night and ends up hooking up with Brooke Simmons who has bad luck with men. Only later to find out that Sawyer is her new partner. To say they had a rough working relationship at first would be an understatement. Yet, they eventually find there groove at work and off the clock.
Like I said we have Sawyer and Brooke, and they are super hot when they finally get together. Seriously, some of the that sexual tension is pretty intense. That alone would make you need a cold shower. At the beginning of the story Sawyer is pretty intense and a dick. Some of the things he does in the story makes you want to slap him. Fortunately, he does get his head out of his ass. Brooke is pretty much kickass kind of girl. She works hard to get where she is today. I admire her for most of the story. It wasn't until the end I wanted to smack the girl, for being a girl. I get why she was so pissed, but I still wanted to smack her.
Basically, Stripped was a much better read than watching Magic Mike. Seriously, the plot is SOOOO much better. If you liked watching Magic Mike then you might enjoyed Stripped, because it had a better plot. Plus, who doesn't love a good cop romance with one of the detectives who goes into an assignment as a stripper. Plus, it's a hot read, if you are looking for a little steam. The beginning is a little slow, but story does progress. Like I said I'm looking forward to more in the series. The next one goes undercover at a school. Fun times there.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss
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