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Fear Inc. #1
Fear Inc: Volume One
Ex-cop Maxwell Fear knows all too well what can happen to a witness of a violent crime—which is why he has no choice but to protect her.
Sloane Robertson is no longer the woman he met at a dinner party, or the woman he kissed at the front door. She’s a client, a job, nothing more than a person who happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong damn time.
He will keep it professional. He won’t get involved in her personal life. And he sure as hell won’t try to convince her to ditch the scumbag who calls himself her boyfriend.
There’s only one thing Max needs to do, one thing he’s determined to do—keep Sloane alive.
Nothing and no one will stop him from doing his job…not even her.
Sloane Robertson is no longer the woman he met at a dinner party, or the woman he kissed at the front door. She’s a client, a job, nothing more than a person who happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong damn time.
He will keep it professional. He won’t get involved in her personal life. And he sure as hell won’t try to convince her to ditch the scumbag who calls himself her boyfriend.
There’s only one thing Max needs to do, one thing he’s determined to do—keep Sloane alive.
Nothing and no one will stop him from doing his job…not even her.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2017
About the author
Melinda Valentine
28 books68 followersMelinda Valentine was born in upstate New York. Being the youngest of four children (and the only girl) made it easy for her to turn to books as a companion. As a young child she was whisked away to Baltimore, Maryland. She spent her youth reading books such as Nancy Drew, The Chronicles of Narnia and The Little House on the Prairie saga.
However, it wasn't until she was twelve years old that she read a book (Stephen king's IT) that made her realize that someday, she would herself be a writer. After that her first (horrible) manuscript came to life. At thirteen she had received her very first rejection letter. Heartbroken, she continued to read even more to learn about the craft of writing.
Today Melinda calls West Virginia home, with her swoon worthy husband , three hilarious children, and three crazy puppies. She creates characters that she hopes her readers fall in love with as much as she has.
However, it wasn't until she was twelve years old that she read a book (Stephen king's IT) that made her realize that someday, she would herself be a writer. After that her first (horrible) manuscript came to life. At thirteen she had received her very first rejection letter. Heartbroken, she continued to read even more to learn about the craft of writing.
Today Melinda calls West Virginia home, with her swoon worthy husband , three hilarious children, and three crazy puppies. She creates characters that she hopes her readers fall in love with as much as she has.
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November 24, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/24/2017)! 💝
June 21, 2022
A woman is caught between a bad relationship and a crime. Sloane is with Brody, a man who leaves much to be desired. Then she meets Max who is everything she desires. She stands loyally with Brody until she witnesses a crime and sees the criminals’ faces. Max, who is a bodyguard, ex-cop takes it upon himself to be Sloane’s security detail.
My initial reaction to the book is annoyance. I don’t understand why Sloane is with Brody. She’s not happy in their relationship, she knows he’s cheating and has been since nearly the beginning, and he doesn’t want her for anything but sex where he leaves her unsatisfied. She isn’t being abused in any way that makes it unsafe for her to leave him and they don’t have children. So why? She constantly fantasizes about Max but insists on remaining loyal to Brody who isn’t loyal to her. It’s confusing and frustrating.
Honestly, this to me is just another book about characters with no personality who are focused on sex. That’s what everything is about. Sloane just saw a man die and was shot at. She’s on the run and hiding because they knew her name. Yet Max is everything she desires and Brody cheated when she needed him.
Max’s character is weirdly possessive for a man constantly proclaiming he doesn’t want to settle down which makes me growl. Either commit to her or not but don’t you dare bring a date to watch her and make sure she doesn’t choose to have a one night stand. It isn’t cute. It isn’t charming.He wants her to cancel her social plans with no intention of canceling his. And he’s treating Sloane like she’s an assignment/job but that was only self-assigned by him. She never signed papers and he isn’t getting a paycheck. If she is a “job”, then all his plans should be her plans regardless. But, and I can’t state this enough, she isn’t an assignment by any stretch of the word.
I don’t understand why the plot of this book is so complicated if the characters are going to be so vapid. Neither the plot nor the characters lend themselves to the other. Then, at the end of the book, I didn’t feel like Sloane and Max even liked each other though they proclaimed to be in love. Good thing I was told they loved each other because I definitely wasn’t shown it.
I don’t recommend this book. I wanted to like it, but I didn’t.
My initial reaction to the book is annoyance. I don’t understand why Sloane is with Brody. She’s not happy in their relationship, she knows he’s cheating and has been since nearly the beginning, and he doesn’t want her for anything but sex where he leaves her unsatisfied. She isn’t being abused in any way that makes it unsafe for her to leave him and they don’t have children. So why? She constantly fantasizes about Max but insists on remaining loyal to Brody who isn’t loyal to her. It’s confusing and frustrating.
Honestly, this to me is just another book about characters with no personality who are focused on sex. That’s what everything is about. Sloane just saw a man die and was shot at. She’s on the run and hiding because they knew her name. Yet Max is everything she desires and Brody cheated when she needed him.
Max’s character is weirdly possessive for a man constantly proclaiming he doesn’t want to settle down which makes me growl. Either commit to her or not but don’t you dare bring a date to watch her and make sure she doesn’t choose to have a one night stand. It isn’t cute. It isn’t charming.He wants her to cancel her social plans with no intention of canceling his. And he’s treating Sloane like she’s an assignment/job but that was only self-assigned by him. She never signed papers and he isn’t getting a paycheck. If she is a “job”, then all his plans should be her plans regardless. But, and I can’t state this enough, she isn’t an assignment by any stretch of the word.
I don’t understand why the plot of this book is so complicated if the characters are going to be so vapid. Neither the plot nor the characters lend themselves to the other. Then, at the end of the book, I didn’t feel like Sloane and Max even liked each other though they proclaimed to be in love. Good thing I was told they loved each other because I definitely wasn’t shown it.
I don’t recommend this book. I wanted to like it, but I didn’t.
March 11, 2019
Good plot, hot scenes, bit of funny and suspense thrown in. Wish it was a bit longer and had a little more depth but overall great read! Can’t wait to continue the series!
July 2, 2024
this has been a nice light read. It was exactly what I needed, the characters are well developed, Sloane being a bit more insecure than I like though (she is like that for valid reasons, this is just personal preference)
Totally recomendable
Totally recomendable
July 31, 2017
Strong start to a new series
A new author to me, and I must say it got started with a bang. I look forward to more from this author.
A new author to me, and I must say it got started with a bang. I look forward to more from this author.
January 9, 2023
I won this book in a giveaway on Facebook from the author.
I have to say for a bodyguard/romantic suspense romance I would say it’s an excellent book, I love just the whole concept of this storyline and the characters. Reading the first book in this series made me want to keep on reading. There are 2 more books and yes I would read them all. Ms. Melinda Valentine really made an excellent book. The sparks between the two main characters was just so hot. The friendships they both had were just awesome to read about. Just so believable the whole story was, just something someone can relate to. There’s something for everyone, mafia references, drama, shading dealings, love, romance, smexy scenes, ect.
Blurb about book:
Sloan Robertson is in a dead in relationship with a man (Brody) who just doesn’t appreciate her and puts her down. He has been cheating on her, she knows it and yet she stays. She has good friends like Foster (her cousins fiancé) and her cousin Mirabella. She needs to realize her self worth. And that she deserves better than what she is getting.
Enters Maxwell Fear an ex cop and now private security and bodyguard who is best friends with Foster. He is an alphahole and just a protector in the sense of the word. He’s known for not doing relationships and just having long term flings with a few woman. He meets Sloan at Mirabella and Fosters house. He just can’t believe she’s as boring and frosty as Brody has been saying while everyone knows he cheats on her. Maxwell wants nothing to protect her after her witnessing her boss getting gunned down by Russian mob gangsters.
Favorite quote from the book is “He can guard my body whenever he wa-oh God”.
Read and see what happens does Sloan finally grow a backbone and leave Brody? Does she get with Maxwell the alphahole? Read this awesome romance and just get sucked into the world of Fear INC.
Overall story: 5 stars out of 5 ⭐️
Romance: 4 out of 5 ⭐️
Smut: 4.5 out of 5 🌶️
I have to say for a bodyguard/romantic suspense romance I would say it’s an excellent book, I love just the whole concept of this storyline and the characters. Reading the first book in this series made me want to keep on reading. There are 2 more books and yes I would read them all. Ms. Melinda Valentine really made an excellent book. The sparks between the two main characters was just so hot. The friendships they both had were just awesome to read about. Just so believable the whole story was, just something someone can relate to. There’s something for everyone, mafia references, drama, shading dealings, love, romance, smexy scenes, ect.
Blurb about book:
Sloan Robertson is in a dead in relationship with a man (Brody) who just doesn’t appreciate her and puts her down. He has been cheating on her, she knows it and yet she stays. She has good friends like Foster (her cousins fiancé) and her cousin Mirabella. She needs to realize her self worth. And that she deserves better than what she is getting.
Enters Maxwell Fear an ex cop and now private security and bodyguard who is best friends with Foster. He is an alphahole and just a protector in the sense of the word. He’s known for not doing relationships and just having long term flings with a few woman. He meets Sloan at Mirabella and Fosters house. He just can’t believe she’s as boring and frosty as Brody has been saying while everyone knows he cheats on her. Maxwell wants nothing to protect her after her witnessing her boss getting gunned down by Russian mob gangsters.
Favorite quote from the book is “He can guard my body whenever he wa-oh God”.
Read and see what happens does Sloan finally grow a backbone and leave Brody? Does she get with Maxwell the alphahole? Read this awesome romance and just get sucked into the world of Fear INC.
Overall story: 5 stars out of 5 ⭐️
Romance: 4 out of 5 ⭐️
Smut: 4.5 out of 5 🌶️
January 2, 2021
Between 2-3 stars, but frustrated enough with the leads that I don't quite want to round up. So, 2+ (better than "just OK" but not really "liked").
The first in a series of contemporary romances set in a PI/security firm, Fear Inc. This one is the story of Max Fear (H), the company's founder. He meets Sloane (h) as the friend of a friend. He's immediately attracted to her, but she's dating someone else. By the time she's single again, her life is at risk and he's taken her on as a client. Will they ever be able to meet in the middle, or will they just keep missing each other?
I reached the point where I just hated Sloane. Max had his dense moments too, but Sloane repeatedly wandered into TSTL or "I create my own drama by refusing to talk to anyone" territory. I was over her after the mall scene. "I wanted to be alone." I get wanting to be alone when surrounded by people, but when your life's at risk? The smart decision is to go into one of the most populated places you can??? Not even tell anyone where you're going????? Like I said, TSTL. But the relationship stuff got to me the most. She's so weak that she stays with a man who she doesn't love (she admits this!) as he's cheating on her for almost the entire time they're together. They're only dating, too - not married or even living together! She's miserable, but blames herself and doesn't try to change things - she doesn't even have many "Good Brody" memories to balance out the cheating, but still she stays. But then she actually does think she loves Max, but doesn't talk to him about anything! She even pushes him away when he's trying to talk to her! He specifically says she was totally wrong about everything she thought she overheard! And yet she not only tells him to go, she pushes him away with a solid lie!!! Then she gets hypocritical at the wedding - she pushed him away, but is mad when he's half-heartedly flirting with someone else at the wedding!! She won't give him the chance to talk, heck, won't even give him the time of day, but he's supposed to keep pining for her?? Should he try to move on (as he thinks she has), it's 'throwing it in her face'? Total double standard.
Max wasn't much better, in terms of dingbat decisions. Granted, he's not walking into malls with professional killers on his tail, but he does seem pretty freakin' dense when it comes to interacting with the opposite sex outside of the bedroom.
In addition, never really felt the connection between the two. Probably because they were both so freakin' dense? Yes there were a fair number of steamy scenes, but no real actual connection. If they were as head over heels as they both proclaimed to be, why did it take so long to actually work things out? Why didn't they fight for each other? Heck, why didn't they even TALK to each other??? They just go back and forth, hot and cold, over and over and over instead. They're supposed to be older - Brody's dating her because he's wanting to settle down. Max has already had one career and is starting a second. Yet, they are all acting like high schoolers, creating their own drama simply because they don't talk to each other or pay attention to possible consequences of their actions. If you're in your 30s and someone means something to you, don't you have enough strength to at least try to talk to them to sort things out? Just seemed very immature, and I struggled to feel their actual connection.
Another relationship issue- protection.
Fairly well written though, at least technically. A few errors, but not chock-full of typos and editing issues, so that's a plus.
Alternating 3rd person POV. Messy relationship, with them not really getting together until the very end. Vague cheating/love triangle surrounding the leads - not enough to set off my triggers, but still messy. Cheating from the h's ex, though - major subplot. Idiotic behavior from both leads, particularly the immature h. Minor OW drama, mostly due to H not being super clear in his actions. HEA and no cliffhangers, with an epilogue a few years down the road.
Would I read more in the series? The second book was another free Kindle find. I'm willing to give it a chance to see if the reading is better with different leads. They can't all be as dumb as Sloane, right?
The first in a series of contemporary romances set in a PI/security firm, Fear Inc. This one is the story of Max Fear (H), the company's founder. He meets Sloane (h) as the friend of a friend. He's immediately attracted to her, but she's dating someone else. By the time she's single again, her life is at risk and he's taken her on as a client. Will they ever be able to meet in the middle, or will they just keep missing each other?
I reached the point where I just hated Sloane. Max had his dense moments too, but Sloane repeatedly wandered into TSTL or "I create my own drama by refusing to talk to anyone" territory. I was over her after the mall scene. "I wanted to be alone." I get wanting to be alone when surrounded by people, but when your life's at risk? The smart decision is to go into one of the most populated places you can??? Not even tell anyone where you're going????? Like I said, TSTL. But the relationship stuff got to me the most. She's so weak that she stays with a man who she doesn't love (she admits this!) as he's cheating on her for almost the entire time they're together. They're only dating, too - not married or even living together! She's miserable, but blames herself and doesn't try to change things - she doesn't even have many "Good Brody" memories to balance out the cheating, but still she stays. But then she actually does think she loves Max, but doesn't talk to him about anything! She even pushes him away when he's trying to talk to her! He specifically says she was totally wrong about everything she thought she overheard! And yet she not only tells him to go, she pushes him away with a solid lie!!! Then she gets hypocritical at the wedding - she pushed him away, but is mad when he's half-heartedly flirting with someone else at the wedding!! She won't give him the chance to talk, heck, won't even give him the time of day, but he's supposed to keep pining for her?? Should he try to move on (as he thinks she has), it's 'throwing it in her face'? Total double standard.
Max wasn't much better, in terms of dingbat decisions. Granted, he's not walking into malls with professional killers on his tail, but he does seem pretty freakin' dense when it comes to interacting with the opposite sex outside of the bedroom.
In addition, never really felt the connection between the two. Probably because they were both so freakin' dense? Yes there were a fair number of steamy scenes, but no real actual connection. If they were as head over heels as they both proclaimed to be, why did it take so long to actually work things out? Why didn't they fight for each other? Heck, why didn't they even TALK to each other??? They just go back and forth, hot and cold, over and over and over instead. They're supposed to be older - Brody's dating her because he's wanting to settle down. Max has already had one career and is starting a second. Yet, they are all acting like high schoolers, creating their own drama simply because they don't talk to each other or pay attention to possible consequences of their actions. If you're in your 30s and someone means something to you, don't you have enough strength to at least try to talk to them to sort things out? Just seemed very immature, and I struggled to feel their actual connection.
Another relationship issue- protection.
Fairly well written though, at least technically. A few errors, but not chock-full of typos and editing issues, so that's a plus.
Alternating 3rd person POV. Messy relationship, with them not really getting together until the very end. Vague cheating/love triangle surrounding the leads - not enough to set off my triggers, but still messy. Cheating from the h's ex, though - major subplot. Idiotic behavior from both leads, particularly the immature h. Minor OW drama, mostly due to H not being super clear in his actions. HEA and no cliffhangers, with an epilogue a few years down the road.
Would I read more in the series? The second book was another free Kindle find. I'm willing to give it a chance to see if the reading is better with different leads. They can't all be as dumb as Sloane, right?
August 12, 2020
With all due respect to the author, this one is not a re-read for me even though it was free.
Both MCs were super annoying in that they constantly made assumptions and bonehead decisions based on those assumptions. Not even a "big misunderstanding" more like lots of small misunderstandings that could have been resolved with a couple of sentences. But she would run/say she doesn't want to talk about it/make poor decisions. He was just as bad, no alpha here. They supposedly "love" each other but can't be bothered to fight for each other.
He calls up a booty call, later when he's supposed to be in love with her he grinds up against a girl at a wedding.
She is with a boyfriend at the beginning but still lusting after him. After she breaks up with the boyfriend, she grinds up against the H's buddy and considers having sex with him when the H turned up at a club with his booty-call.
So much more, like a huge oops that happens and the h is so secretive. Even though she has family and friends, a complete support system. She acts like a martyr.
He's no alpha, he never fights for her.
They both put and play games. I don't mind conflict and angst but they were annoyingly immature.
Both MCs were super annoying in that they constantly made assumptions and bonehead decisions based on those assumptions. Not even a "big misunderstanding" more like lots of small misunderstandings that could have been resolved with a couple of sentences. But she would run/say she doesn't want to talk about it/make poor decisions. He was just as bad, no alpha here. They supposedly "love" each other but can't be bothered to fight for each other.
He calls up a booty call, later when he's supposed to be in love with her he grinds up against a girl at a wedding.
She is with a boyfriend at the beginning but still lusting after him. After she breaks up with the boyfriend, she grinds up against the H's buddy and considers having sex with him when the H turned up at a club with his booty-call.
So much more, like a huge oops that happens and the h is so secretive. Even though she has family and friends, a complete support system. She acts like a martyr.
He's no alpha, he never fights for her.
They both put and play games. I don't mind conflict and angst but they were annoyingly immature.
January 31, 2022
This was a super way and quick read. It’s okay…. Read it in a few hours. It’s not complicated, it’s not in any way surprising, it’s predictable, and it’s superficial. But hey, it’s a fun little romance with some hot scenes. I’d read the next one.
The only thing I can’t stand…. WHY THE HECK DOES THE UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY TROPE EXIST?! It’s by far the worst thing to exist in a book. Ugh. But at least it doesn’t rear it’s head until the last bit.
The only thing I can’t stand…. WHY THE HECK DOES THE UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY TROPE EXIST?! It’s by far the worst thing to exist in a book. Ugh. But at least it doesn’t rear it’s head until the last bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
January 3, 2024Prch Amz April 12, 2020
July 30, 2024
A Top-Notch Romantic Suspense, Narration & Audio Production🎧 4.5 Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Fear Inc, Volume 1
By: Melinda Valentine
Narrated by: Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran, JF Harding
Series: Fear Inc, Book 1
I enjoyed this book immensely, a romantic suspense that has the perfect balance of drama, angst, mystery, suspense and romance. I am not sure how this is my first book written by Melinda Valentine, but she is definitely on my radar now. The story drew me in, grabbing my attention completely and held it captive the entire time. Former police officer Maxwell Fear currently works in private security and plans to start his one security firm, Fear Incorporated. The book opens with Max meeting his soon to be married best bud, Foster Hyland, and some of his former colleagues and other boys of blue for drinks to celebrate, an introduction to some of the secondary characters who get their own books and I am looking forward to their stories, too. Sloane Robertson has not been happy with her boyfriend Brody’s cheating ways, and despite knowing this, she continues to put up with that and his lies and stays with him. She meets Max while eating dinner at her cousin Mirabella’s house, her cousin in marrying Foster. Max felt an instant attraction to Sloane, but backed off when he heard she was in a relationship, though he was not happy to hear with who, also knowing Brody, his cheating ways and how much of a jerk he really is. Since Sloane had too much to drink, he volunteered to take her home, and when she finds herself in trouble, walking in on something she should not have seen, it is Max who answers her call and it is he who takes her in and keeps her protected. I was rooting for Max and Sloane, thought they would make a great couple, but she just needed to open her eyes and get rid of her loser of a boyfriend before that could happen. There is never a dull moment in this book, and the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. I enjoyed Max and Sloane’s journey and where it led to, and that ending brings a new beginning, in more ways than one. Melinda Valentine, thank you for this great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fantastic lineup of talent and multi-cast production led by Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose as the two lead character, Max and Sloane, as well as some secondary characters, with Troy Duran and JF Harding picking up several of the other secondary roles. Their duet performance was a treat to for the ears, with each one owning their roles and making them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you believing each one. This cast made a great team, a great team of entertaining storytellers, and their performance elevated the story to another. Thank you for another fantastic listen.
Fear Inc, Volume 1
By: Melinda Valentine
Narrated by: Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran, JF Harding
Series: Fear Inc, Book 1
I enjoyed this book immensely, a romantic suspense that has the perfect balance of drama, angst, mystery, suspense and romance. I am not sure how this is my first book written by Melinda Valentine, but she is definitely on my radar now. The story drew me in, grabbing my attention completely and held it captive the entire time. Former police officer Maxwell Fear currently works in private security and plans to start his one security firm, Fear Incorporated. The book opens with Max meeting his soon to be married best bud, Foster Hyland, and some of his former colleagues and other boys of blue for drinks to celebrate, an introduction to some of the secondary characters who get their own books and I am looking forward to their stories, too. Sloane Robertson has not been happy with her boyfriend Brody’s cheating ways, and despite knowing this, she continues to put up with that and his lies and stays with him. She meets Max while eating dinner at her cousin Mirabella’s house, her cousin in marrying Foster. Max felt an instant attraction to Sloane, but backed off when he heard she was in a relationship, though he was not happy to hear with who, also knowing Brody, his cheating ways and how much of a jerk he really is. Since Sloane had too much to drink, he volunteered to take her home, and when she finds herself in trouble, walking in on something she should not have seen, it is Max who answers her call and it is he who takes her in and keeps her protected. I was rooting for Max and Sloane, thought they would make a great couple, but she just needed to open her eyes and get rid of her loser of a boyfriend before that could happen. There is never a dull moment in this book, and the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. I enjoyed Max and Sloane’s journey and where it led to, and that ending brings a new beginning, in more ways than one. Melinda Valentine, thank you for this great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fantastic lineup of talent and multi-cast production led by Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose as the two lead character, Max and Sloane, as well as some secondary characters, with Troy Duran and JF Harding picking up several of the other secondary roles. Their duet performance was a treat to for the ears, with each one owning their roles and making them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you believing each one. This cast made a great team, a great team of entertaining storytellers, and their performance elevated the story to another. Thank you for another fantastic listen.
July 26, 2024
*Audiobook Review*
Narration by Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran & JF Harding
Story⭐️: 4/5
Narration🎤: 5/5
Spice level🌶️: 3/5
This was a nice quick read. It’s my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It’s a slow burn romance with suspense and heat and a bit of spice. It’s told in 3rd person, dual POV. This book is less than 5 hours long and I don’t usually read shorter books but I really enjoyed this one. The pacing was perfect. I didn’t feel like the story anything was missing or it was rushed or ended too soon.
Max and Sloane meet at a dinner hosted by Sloane’s cousin Bella and her fiancé Foster, who is Max’s best friend. There’s obvious chemistry between Max and Sloane, but Sloane is in a relationship with a guy who treats her poorly. Max, an ex-cop who now works in private security, saves her from a dangerous situation and takes on the role of her personal bodyguard until the threat is neutralized. The more time the spend together, the closer they become, until they can’t ignore their feelings anymore. (There’s no cheating on her part.)
I loved the build up of the romance. Sloane is in a relationship where she’s treated badly, but makes excuses for him because she doesn’t believe she deserves better, until Max comes along and shows her how she should be treated. Max has his own internal struggle between his reluctance to settle down and his growing feelings for Sloane. They’re flawed, relatable characters, who experience growth as the story progresses. I also love that Max brings out her confident, freaky side, while her ex saw her a frigid.
I enjoyed the suspense storyline that was woven into their love story, and the narrators did a great job getting us emotionally invested in those high-stakes moments when the characters were in danger. The spice in this book is quite hot, but there isn’t a lot of it, which I appreciate because it’s not a very long book. I think the balance between plot and spice was really good and the level of depth of the plot and characters was appropriate for the length of the book.
The cast of narrators is what drew me to this book. I’ve enjoyed other books by them, and this was no exception. I really enjoyed the full cast narration. Having different narrators play the roles of different characters in duet definitely elevated the story. Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose played the main characters and did very well at depicting the strong emotions the characters experience throughout the story. I particularly enjoyed Connor’s portrayal of a jealous Max, battling with his desire for Sloane while trying to keep things professional. Troy and J.F. Harding did a great job in their supporting roles, bringing out the different personalities of each character.
If you’re looking for a quick read, with great narration, flawed, relatable characters, interesting, (mostly) supportive side characters, a suspense subplot, a bit of spice, and you don’t mind the miscommunication trope, you should definitely check out this book.
*I received a free copy from the author, and these are my honest opinions.
Narration by Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran & JF Harding
Story⭐️: 4/5
Narration🎤: 5/5
Spice level🌶️: 3/5
This was a nice quick read. It’s my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It’s a slow burn romance with suspense and heat and a bit of spice. It’s told in 3rd person, dual POV. This book is less than 5 hours long and I don’t usually read shorter books but I really enjoyed this one. The pacing was perfect. I didn’t feel like the story anything was missing or it was rushed or ended too soon.
Max and Sloane meet at a dinner hosted by Sloane’s cousin Bella and her fiancé Foster, who is Max’s best friend. There’s obvious chemistry between Max and Sloane, but Sloane is in a relationship with a guy who treats her poorly. Max, an ex-cop who now works in private security, saves her from a dangerous situation and takes on the role of her personal bodyguard until the threat is neutralized. The more time the spend together, the closer they become, until they can’t ignore their feelings anymore. (There’s no cheating on her part.)
I loved the build up of the romance. Sloane is in a relationship where she’s treated badly, but makes excuses for him because she doesn’t believe she deserves better, until Max comes along and shows her how she should be treated. Max has his own internal struggle between his reluctance to settle down and his growing feelings for Sloane. They’re flawed, relatable characters, who experience growth as the story progresses. I also love that Max brings out her confident, freaky side, while her ex saw her a frigid.
I enjoyed the suspense storyline that was woven into their love story, and the narrators did a great job getting us emotionally invested in those high-stakes moments when the characters were in danger. The spice in this book is quite hot, but there isn’t a lot of it, which I appreciate because it’s not a very long book. I think the balance between plot and spice was really good and the level of depth of the plot and characters was appropriate for the length of the book.
The cast of narrators is what drew me to this book. I’ve enjoyed other books by them, and this was no exception. I really enjoyed the full cast narration. Having different narrators play the roles of different characters in duet definitely elevated the story. Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose played the main characters and did very well at depicting the strong emotions the characters experience throughout the story. I particularly enjoyed Connor’s portrayal of a jealous Max, battling with his desire for Sloane while trying to keep things professional. Troy and J.F. Harding did a great job in their supporting roles, bringing out the different personalities of each character.
If you’re looking for a quick read, with great narration, flawed, relatable characters, interesting, (mostly) supportive side characters, a suspense subplot, a bit of spice, and you don’t mind the miscommunication trope, you should definitely check out this book.
*I received a free copy from the author, and these are my honest opinions.
March 21, 2024
This is my first Melinda Valentine book,and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and I am glad I did,because we are gifted with the remarkable talents of Connor Crais,Stephanie Rose,Troy Duran and J.F Harding telling this story to you..4 incredible voice actors mesmerising you with their smooth clear and expressive voices taking you into the world of Fear Inc.
Max is an ex cop now in the security buisness and meeting a woman at a dinner party of his friend and collegue has him captivated.
Sloane is in a relationship with a horrible man,Brody is a cheating verbally abusive Ass..but Sloane is low in self esteem that she stays with him.
But the attraction she feels to the stranger at her cousins dinner has her questioning her relationship with Brody,especially when they share a kiss at the end of the night.
But little do they both realise that Max and Sloanes life is about to become more entangled with one another.
Sloane witnesses a shooting and the bad guys are now after her and she is in danger from the killers..In steps Max to protect her taking her into his home to keep her safe,but she was now his client and so he needs to be professional.He is so grumpy Sloane thinks that Max hates her...with her life being in peril she finally finds the courage to finish her relationship with Brody..Plus she can't stop thinking about Max.
These two get so many things wrong and miscommunication is the huge obstacle for them,so even though they share an intimate night together,they end up apart.
I actually thought they would never get their acts together because they just didn't communicate,which was frustrating.
This book captured my attention from the start and kept me wondering what would happen with these two characters.
I like Melinda's writing and the storyline was really good the narrators were perfect.
This is a quick listen just over 4 hours so is perfect to finish in a day or two depending on how much freetime you have.
I loved it.
great audiobook.
5 stars.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and I am glad I did,because we are gifted with the remarkable talents of Connor Crais,Stephanie Rose,Troy Duran and J.F Harding telling this story to you..4 incredible voice actors mesmerising you with their smooth clear and expressive voices taking you into the world of Fear Inc.
Max is an ex cop now in the security buisness and meeting a woman at a dinner party of his friend and collegue has him captivated.
Sloane is in a relationship with a horrible man,Brody is a cheating verbally abusive Ass..but Sloane is low in self esteem that she stays with him.
But the attraction she feels to the stranger at her cousins dinner has her questioning her relationship with Brody,especially when they share a kiss at the end of the night.
But little do they both realise that Max and Sloanes life is about to become more entangled with one another.
Sloane witnesses a shooting and the bad guys are now after her and she is in danger from the killers..In steps Max to protect her taking her into his home to keep her safe,but she was now his client and so he needs to be professional.He is so grumpy Sloane thinks that Max hates her...with her life being in peril she finally finds the courage to finish her relationship with Brody..Plus she can't stop thinking about Max.
These two get so many things wrong and miscommunication is the huge obstacle for them,so even though they share an intimate night together,they end up apart.
I actually thought they would never get their acts together because they just didn't communicate,which was frustrating.
This book captured my attention from the start and kept me wondering what would happen with these two characters.
I like Melinda's writing and the storyline was really good the narrators were perfect.
This is a quick listen just over 4 hours so is perfect to finish in a day or two depending on how much freetime you have.
I loved it.
great audiobook.
5 stars.
August 7, 2024
Overall Thoughts: I love a good bodyguard romance, and this story was both intriguing, and entertaining. This was my first book by Melanie, and while I enjoyed it, I wish there had been a deeper dive into some of the relationships between the main and secondary characters. I wanted more between Sloane and her cousins, and Max and his buddies. While the duet narration from Max and Sloane was great as it was performed by Stephanie Rose and Connor Crais, who are phenomenal, I have a difficult time with 3rd person narration. Also, the additional narration from Troy Duran and JF Harding while performed excellently, didn’t seem sufficient enough to warrant them being in this book. I imagine it is because future books will focus on their characters, and this was a way to introduce them to the listener. I don’t want you to think I didn’t enjoy the book because I did, I think I just wanted more.
Narration: Duet narration, third-person present tense, multiple-POV
Tropes: Bodyguard, witness protection, inexperienced FMC, cheating ex, familial support, ex-cop, bachelor, she pushes him away
Overall: 3.5
Spice: 2
Humor: 2
Drama: 3
Darkness: 2
Sloane’s cousin and Max’s best friend are getting married, but they have never met, until the two of them decide to invite Sloane and Max over for dinner. There is an instant attraction, but Sloane is fighting an internal battle of whether to stay or leave her cheating boyfriend, who Max also happens to know.
The two of them are thrown together again, when Sloane sees something she shouldn’t have and now there are men after her, who want to see her dead. Max doesn’t want anything to happen to Sloane, and wishes she would just dump the dead weight that is her slime ball of an ex. He offers to protect her until they can figure out and stop whoever is after her.
Along the way feelings develop and hearts get smashed, but when it really matters will they be able to be there for each other and overcome all the challenges of a new relationship for two people who should be together?
Narration: Duet narration, third-person present tense, multiple-POV
Tropes: Bodyguard, witness protection, inexperienced FMC, cheating ex, familial support, ex-cop, bachelor, she pushes him away
Overall: 3.5
Spice: 2
Humor: 2
Drama: 3
Darkness: 2
Sloane’s cousin and Max’s best friend are getting married, but they have never met, until the two of them decide to invite Sloane and Max over for dinner. There is an instant attraction, but Sloane is fighting an internal battle of whether to stay or leave her cheating boyfriend, who Max also happens to know.
The two of them are thrown together again, when Sloane sees something she shouldn’t have and now there are men after her, who want to see her dead. Max doesn’t want anything to happen to Sloane, and wishes she would just dump the dead weight that is her slime ball of an ex. He offers to protect her until they can figure out and stop whoever is after her.
Along the way feelings develop and hearts get smashed, but when it really matters will they be able to be there for each other and overcome all the challenges of a new relationship for two people who should be together?
July 28, 2024
Fear Inc, Volume 1
By: Melinda Valentine
Narrated by: Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran, JF Harding
WOW! I love finding new authors, and Melinda Valentine quickly became a favorite! Romantic suspense is my jam and this is the perfect mix. Max and Sloan met at a dinner party at her cousin Bella's. Sloan is in a relationship with Brody, but that doesn't stop Max from noticing the beauty. Brody is a cheater, and Sloan is almost at her wits end. When she is at the wrong place a he wrong time, Max is there, ready to take care of her. But he is going to keep it professional, right? She has Brody, and Max is finding it more and more difficult to do that! How does it end? Valentine keeps the danger coming, the bodyguards close and the passion growing! I loved every minute of this one, as the suspense built, and the amazing secondary characters brought so much depth to the story. Loved this story and look forward to more of the Fear Inc series!
What an amazing narration team! This features Connor Crais as Max and Stephanie Rose as Sloan with JF Harding and Troy Duran popping in as part of the the Fear Inc team. Crais is that alpha, a bit growlie and so warm as Max. He pulls out all the stops with the emotions and created an amazing character. Rose is fantastic as Sloan. A bit unsure, confused and hurt, in love, scared, you name the emotion and it came through. The cameos just were icing on the cake. I enjoyed this one!
By: Melinda Valentine
Narrated by: Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran, JF Harding
WOW! I love finding new authors, and Melinda Valentine quickly became a favorite! Romantic suspense is my jam and this is the perfect mix. Max and Sloan met at a dinner party at her cousin Bella's. Sloan is in a relationship with Brody, but that doesn't stop Max from noticing the beauty. Brody is a cheater, and Sloan is almost at her wits end. When she is at the wrong place a he wrong time, Max is there, ready to take care of her. But he is going to keep it professional, right? She has Brody, and Max is finding it more and more difficult to do that! How does it end? Valentine keeps the danger coming, the bodyguards close and the passion growing! I loved every minute of this one, as the suspense built, and the amazing secondary characters brought so much depth to the story. Loved this story and look forward to more of the Fear Inc series!
What an amazing narration team! This features Connor Crais as Max and Stephanie Rose as Sloan with JF Harding and Troy Duran popping in as part of the the Fear Inc team. Crais is that alpha, a bit growlie and so warm as Max. He pulls out all the stops with the emotions and created an amazing character. Rose is fantastic as Sloan. A bit unsure, confused and hurt, in love, scared, you name the emotion and it came through. The cameos just were icing on the cake. I enjoyed this one!
July 31, 2024
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
▪︎Spice Level: 🌶🌶/ 5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧 🎧🎧/5 (Dual Style)
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠/5
•Bookshelf Worthy: 📚/5
•Platform: Audio and E-book
•Recommend: If you like fast paced books. Yes.
▪︎Re-read/re-listen: No
•Trope: Security Romance, girl needs body guard, He falls first.
• Thoughts:
This was a new to me author, and I love listening or reading new to me authors. This book, however, was not for me. There were aspects of the book I very much enjoyed, and then there were other factors on the book that ruined it for me. I wasn't a ran of this communication mis-hap. I felt there was a lot going on and it onky was wrapped up within the last 10%. I would have loved more character building and more of an idea of who they were together as a couple. I would however love to still listen/read to the series. I am invested in the characters that will be getting their own stories.
Narrator Thoughts:
GAH, the narration in this book was chefs kiss. It was narrated by Stephanie Rose, who is a newer to me narrator the more I listen to her the more and more I just love her. Connor Crais is the main male character and seriously you can't ask for a better lead. His voice is so delicious and smooth. I can listen to him narrate a dictionary and never get bored. Jf Harding and Troy Duran voice the secondary characters and dannnggggg they are incredible, but I mean seriously is anyone surprised?
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
▪︎Spice Level: 🌶🌶/ 5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧 🎧🎧/5 (Dual Style)
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠/5
•Bookshelf Worthy: 📚/5
•Platform: Audio and E-book
•Recommend: If you like fast paced books. Yes.
▪︎Re-read/re-listen: No
•Trope: Security Romance, girl needs body guard, He falls first.
• Thoughts:
This was a new to me author, and I love listening or reading new to me authors. This book, however, was not for me. There were aspects of the book I very much enjoyed, and then there were other factors on the book that ruined it for me. I wasn't a ran of this communication mis-hap. I felt there was a lot going on and it onky was wrapped up within the last 10%. I would have loved more character building and more of an idea of who they were together as a couple. I would however love to still listen/read to the series. I am invested in the characters that will be getting their own stories.
Narrator Thoughts:
GAH, the narration in this book was chefs kiss. It was narrated by Stephanie Rose, who is a newer to me narrator the more I listen to her the more and more I just love her. Connor Crais is the main male character and seriously you can't ask for a better lead. His voice is so delicious and smooth. I can listen to him narrate a dictionary and never get bored. Jf Harding and Troy Duran voice the secondary characters and dannnggggg they are incredible, but I mean seriously is anyone surprised?
July 28, 2024
This book was okay. It has the potential to be better. I liked it but some things just put me off. I love this type of trope and plot, but as I mentioned there were things I didn't like about it. The heroine, Sloane, annoyed me sometimes with how she dealt with her ex and her conflict with the hero, Max when they finally got together. The same goes for Max, he waited weeks before finally asking what happened. The side characters didn't help with it either. Oh and the OW issue I wanted to smack the crap out of her lol 😂 (you'll know what I mean when you get to that part). The villain wasn't resolved properly since the book was short, it ended way too fast. There should have been more chapters to give the plot a bit more depth to the story. It is the first book in this series so hoping for more from the other characters. The narrators were amazing!!! Loved Connor Crais, Troy Duran, JF Harding, and Stephanie Rose. This group of people's voices was perfect for bringing the characters to life. The spice was good too🌶️🌶️ . Overall it was still a good book to listen to and help me pull out from a book slump. Quick and easy audiobook.
Thank you Melinda Valentine for allowing me to listen to this audiobook for free and review it. Can't wait for Tank's story 😊
Thank you Melinda Valentine for allowing me to listen to this audiobook for free and review it. Can't wait for Tank's story 😊
February 19, 2024
Audio book review
This is the first book that I've listened to by Melinda Valentine. This story has it all , suspense, mystery, thrilling scenes and first strong attraction which turns into love .
The author wrote a strong, compelling story and the words were flowing easily.
The characters were great interacting together.
Love how Sloane and Max hit it off right from the get go. Sloane boyfriend is a nasty piece of work , always sleeping around. Max first hears about Sloan at a bar that her then boyfriend mouths off about her . Max is in a bind , he wants Sloane , the attraction is strong, but after a murder that Sloane witnessed at the office, she becomes a client. Max tries very hard to fight his feels. After The side character to the story are great. Why was the killers after Sloane, why was her boss murdered . Sloane is hiding something from Max also .
The performances from the narrators were great, JF Harding, Connor Crais , Troy Duran and Stephanie Rose they brought the story and characters to life
This is the first book that I've listened to by Melinda Valentine. This story has it all , suspense, mystery, thrilling scenes and first strong attraction which turns into love .
The author wrote a strong, compelling story and the words were flowing easily.
The characters were great interacting together.
Love how Sloane and Max hit it off right from the get go. Sloane boyfriend is a nasty piece of work , always sleeping around. Max first hears about Sloan at a bar that her then boyfriend mouths off about her . Max is in a bind , he wants Sloane , the attraction is strong, but after a murder that Sloane witnessed at the office, she becomes a client. Max tries very hard to fight his feels. After The side character to the story are great. Why was the killers after Sloane, why was her boss murdered . Sloane is hiding something from Max also .
The performances from the narrators were great, JF Harding, Connor Crais , Troy Duran and Stephanie Rose they brought the story and characters to life
February 24, 2024
Heartwarming Love story!!
I truly loved this story and fell in love with the characters! Sometimes people are so meant to be together that love at first site happens and real feelings present themselves.
Max and Sloan both thought that they had what they wanted in life, but they quickly realized after having met that fate has another plan for them.
This story is short but so heartwarming and I didn’t want the end to come! It’s perfectly narrated by several of my all-time favorite narrators, Connor Crais, Troy Dran Stephanie Rose and JF Harding. Chef's Kiss I cannot wait for the next story in this series!
“What’s wrong, baby girl?” “Nothing.” “That sad look in your eye isn’t nothing to me.” “Just a boy, Daddy.” “Would that boy be Max?” “How do you know Max?” “A father always knows about the important things, and people, in his baby girl’s life. Are you in love with him?” “Yes. I was, I still am.” “Well, if he’s passin’ up you for that girl, he’s an idiot and I don’t think I want you with someone that stupid.”
Audiobook Review
I truly loved this story and fell in love with the characters! Sometimes people are so meant to be together that love at first site happens and real feelings present themselves.
Max and Sloan both thought that they had what they wanted in life, but they quickly realized after having met that fate has another plan for them.
This story is short but so heartwarming and I didn’t want the end to come! It’s perfectly narrated by several of my all-time favorite narrators, Connor Crais, Troy Dran Stephanie Rose and JF Harding. Chef's Kiss I cannot wait for the next story in this series!
“What’s wrong, baby girl?” “Nothing.” “That sad look in your eye isn’t nothing to me.” “Just a boy, Daddy.” “Would that boy be Max?” “How do you know Max?” “A father always knows about the important things, and people, in his baby girl’s life. Are you in love with him?” “Yes. I was, I still am.” “Well, if he’s passin’ up you for that girl, he’s an idiot and I don’t think I want you with someone that stupid.”
Audiobook Review
September 16, 2024
This is volume one in the Fear Inc. Series. Each book will follow one of the men who works for Max Fear at his security firm. This book follows Max and Sloan as he gets his business off the ground.
*****I listened to this book on Audio. The narrators are Connor Crais and Stepanine Rose. Troy Duran and JF Harding also have supporting roles in this volume. How can you go wrong with these Voice Actors. They all are so talented and bring so much to this book. The suspense and romance was felt through their performances and I was addicted after chapter one. They all are so talented and really bring this story to life. These books are quick reads/listens so if you are looking for a fast paced, fun book, grab these a a go to. I fell in love with the characters and this one set you up to continue with other supporting characters. Volume 2 will be Tank and Volume 3 will be Guttermouth. I cannot wait for the rest int he series. Thank you Melinda for writing such great characters that bring readers into another world. I give this one 4.5 stars but have rounded up.
*****I listened to this book on Audio. The narrators are Connor Crais and Stepanine Rose. Troy Duran and JF Harding also have supporting roles in this volume. How can you go wrong with these Voice Actors. They all are so talented and bring so much to this book. The suspense and romance was felt through their performances and I was addicted after chapter one. They all are so talented and really bring this story to life. These books are quick reads/listens so if you are looking for a fast paced, fun book, grab these a a go to. I fell in love with the characters and this one set you up to continue with other supporting characters. Volume 2 will be Tank and Volume 3 will be Guttermouth. I cannot wait for the rest int he series. Thank you Melinda for writing such great characters that bring readers into another world. I give this one 4.5 stars but have rounded up.
January 15, 2026
Audio Review:
Duet Narration by Stephanie Rose and Connor Crais with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding
Tropes:
Protective MMC
Ex-cop hero
Forced proximity
Romantic suspense
I had the Fear Inc. Volume Set for a while before finally hitting play, and now I’m kicking myself for waiting. What took me so long to listen? This audio novella was suspenseful, immersive, and packed with great banter.
Max Fear is a former cop who knows exactly what happens to witnesses—and he’s determined to keep Sloane alive no matter the cost. The tension between “this is just a job” and undeniable attraction was handled beautifully, and the mystery kept the plot moving at a brisk pace.
The duet narration by Stephanie Rose and Connor Crais (with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding) was fantastic. You truly can’t go wrong with these narrators—their performances added emotional weight and intensity that made the story even more gripping.
Short, sharp, and compelling. On to Volume 2!
Duet Narration by Stephanie Rose and Connor Crais with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding
Tropes:
Protective MMC
Ex-cop hero
Forced proximity
Romantic suspense
I had the Fear Inc. Volume Set for a while before finally hitting play, and now I’m kicking myself for waiting. What took me so long to listen? This audio novella was suspenseful, immersive, and packed with great banter.
Max Fear is a former cop who knows exactly what happens to witnesses—and he’s determined to keep Sloane alive no matter the cost. The tension between “this is just a job” and undeniable attraction was handled beautifully, and the mystery kept the plot moving at a brisk pace.
The duet narration by Stephanie Rose and Connor Crais (with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding) was fantastic. You truly can’t go wrong with these narrators—their performances added emotional weight and intensity that made the story even more gripping.
Short, sharp, and compelling. On to Volume 2!
February 19, 2024
4 Star Review Fear Inc (Fear Inc #1) by Melinda Valentine
Audio:
Melinda Valentine is a new author to me, and I am surprised I have not come across this author before. Narrated by Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose with Troy Duran, and J.F. Harding they brought the characters to life for me. When Sloan Robertson witnesses her boss’s murder, Maxwell Fear will need to use all his wits to keep her safe as the hitman continues to hunt for her.
Settling for a cheating boyfriend there were moments when I wanted to yell at Sloane and shake some sense into her. Thankfully she dumped the useless ex and that was her first smart decision.
I had a hard time connecting to Sloane and there were parts of Max’s character that also were hard to swallow; however, I really liked Mirabella and Foster.
There was romance, heat and suspense and overall, it was a good listen.
Audio:
Melinda Valentine is a new author to me, and I am surprised I have not come across this author before. Narrated by Connor Crais, Stephanie Rose with Troy Duran, and J.F. Harding they brought the characters to life for me. When Sloan Robertson witnesses her boss’s murder, Maxwell Fear will need to use all his wits to keep her safe as the hitman continues to hunt for her.
Settling for a cheating boyfriend there were moments when I wanted to yell at Sloane and shake some sense into her. Thankfully she dumped the useless ex and that was her first smart decision.
I had a hard time connecting to Sloane and there were parts of Max’s character that also were hard to swallow; however, I really liked Mirabella and Foster.
There was romance, heat and suspense and overall, it was a good listen.
August 28, 2017
What an amazing book. This was a first book by this author and I have definitely fallen head over heels in love with her writing. This was a short book yet it told the story of Max and Sloane to the T. Yes I would love to read more about them. But I feel that the author did complete justice to their story. Oh My... MAX... Initially I was oh so angry with Sloane for putting herself down. But then eventually I liked her too. But MAX..... Pure Male Perfection. There is this scene when Max and Sloane are yet not together and don't realise their feelings for each other. They both are in a club with their friends and when one of Max's friend dances with her, Max interrupts and dances with her. The tension between them in that scene is so off the charts hot you have to read it. Loved this one.💖
July 29, 2024
Audiobook Review
What a great start to a new series! I not only really enjoyed Sloane and Max’s story, but I am so intrigued by all of the additional characters that I cannot wait to check out the rest of the series!
The audio was spectacular! Full-cast duet narration - yes please! This was my first time listening to Stephanie and she was perfect as Sloane, but she also brought all of the other female characters to life and gave them their own distinct voices. Connor has the perfect voice to bring protective and fierce MMCs to life and he did just that in his performance as Max. The addition of JF and Troy was a nice little treat too! This is an all-star cast and I definitely recommend grabbing the audio!
What a great start to a new series! I not only really enjoyed Sloane and Max’s story, but I am so intrigued by all of the additional characters that I cannot wait to check out the rest of the series!
The audio was spectacular! Full-cast duet narration - yes please! This was my first time listening to Stephanie and she was perfect as Sloane, but she also brought all of the other female characters to life and gave them their own distinct voices. Connor has the perfect voice to bring protective and fierce MMCs to life and he did just that in his performance as Max. The addition of JF and Troy was a nice little treat too! This is an all-star cast and I definitely recommend grabbing the audio!
August 1, 2024
This book is about Max Fear, who is in private security and working on opening his own firm (Fear, Inc). He meets Sloane through his friends and their relationship is hot and cold throughout the whole book, though I promise there's an HEA. Sloane witnesses a murder and becomes a target of the mafia, so she stays with Max to keep safe. I absolutely love a forced proximity trope, so this was right up my alley.
Books two and three are about Max's friends/ coworkers who we met in book one, and I can't wait to read their stories. I did receive an Advanced Listener Copy (ALC) of this book from the author.
Books two and three are about Max's friends/ coworkers who we met in book one, and I can't wait to read their stories. I did receive an Advanced Listener Copy (ALC) of this book from the author.
October 10, 2024
When Sloane sees something she shouldn't have, her life's immediately in danger. Ex-cop Maxwell Sloane is there to protect her. Having both met at a dinner party, Maxwell thought Sloane was beautiful...and taken. There's definitely chemistry between them, but Max's priority is keeping her safe.
I really enjoyed Max and Sloane's story. Not very long, but plenty of story in this one. Plenty heat between the hero/heroine, and humor w/Max's friends. The narration was great, only about 5 hours long. I loved Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose leading the narrating, along with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding. Can't wait to start the next story in this series.
I really enjoyed Max and Sloane's story. Not very long, but plenty of story in this one. Plenty heat between the hero/heroine, and humor w/Max's friends. The narration was great, only about 5 hours long. I loved Connor Crais and Stephanie Rose leading the narrating, along with Troy Duran and J.F. Harding. Can't wait to start the next story in this series.
August 3, 2024
Max and Sloane's story is a nice quick and steamy listen. This is my first book from Melinda Valentine. The Story is good, there is never a dull moment when you are not engaged. It is a fast moving story. The narration was fantastic. My only criticism would be for this book to be told in 1st person instead of 3rd person. I find it hard to follow 3rd person on audio until you get a couple chapters in and really get to know the characters. You don't pick up right away on the fact that that narrator is speaking about themselves.
January 15, 2023
This book had me in a chokehold from the very start. He’s an ex-cop turned PI who’s looking for anything but love. She’s in a bad relationship and ends up with a target on her back. The suspense made the romance all the more spicier and sweeter. I also loved the characters. I wish they were all my friends, except Brody and Charlie. They honestly deserve each other.
Highly recommend! On to Volume 2!
Highly recommend! On to Volume 2!
July 28, 2024
I want to give this book a 4 but it's just one little peanut of the plot that many stories have that for me personally is a nope. So it's getting a 3.75!
This book was very well written and the narrators, ooooh wee 🥴 so good!
The chemistry that built throughout the book was great and he totally falls first and that's the cutest thing ever.
Definitely going to be reading the next one. Happy reading or listening!!
This book was very well written and the narrators, ooooh wee 🥴 so good!
The chemistry that built throughout the book was great and he totally falls first and that's the cutest thing ever.
Definitely going to be reading the next one. Happy reading or listening!!
August 2, 2024
Max and Sloane are a quick, spicy listen full of suspense vibes and good found family vibes from the friend group. All of the narrators do a great job portraying the emotions their characters experience - especially when Sloane witnesses a crime. Max’s protective side comes out in that moment and Conor Crais does an amazing job with that emotion. Sloane is a bit frustrating at times with her insistence in staying with a man who isn’t faithful to her despite her kissing Max. I need more of this story to feel her growth.
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