Dark Horse

Dark series #3

by Jessica Gadziala

He needed it. The new job. The new city. The new life. The second chance. And nothing could stand in his way. Except, maybe, the sexy as hell spitfire he found himself suddenly in competition with for a job he thought was his. Amongst trying to begin again, office politics, and a case that wasn’t quite what it seemed, he needed to try to keep his mind off the spirited Espen, a task that was going to prove extremely difficult…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Strong Female, Crime, Dark Romance

246 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 25, 2017

About the author

Jessica Gadziala is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in rural New Jersey with her parrots, dogs, and an ever-growing collection of houseplants. A lifelong dreamer, she’s been writing stories since childhood and published her first book in 2015. When not at her desk, she’s usually feeding backyard birds, rewatching crime dramas, period pieces, and 90s supernatural TV shows, or adding to her towering stacks of unread books.



You can find her on
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Reviews

[➦Paulette & Her Sexy Alphas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: ➳ ❤ Dark horse
Series ➳ Dark series
Author: ➳ Jessica Gadziala
Published July 25th 2017
⭐ ⭐ ⭐


ღ I just loved the idea that Enzo & Aspen were in compete for a job in Xanders PI agency

Both Enzo & Aspen had difference reasoning for applying for the job. Each trying to start over & trying to prove themselves.

Aspen work her father company since she had graduated from college, her supervisor had underestimating of her abilities for years! Now she looking to change that. she know that by leaving her father employment, She was leaving behind her father's reputable, long-established private investigation office in a nice area with all its expensive things, but that didn’t matter to her after all the b/s she dealt with over years

I was very excited to read the story of Enzo. After meeting him & knowing his past, the things he did, the 180 degree turn he wanted to give his life, but come-on let’s not mince words, Enzo had been a drug dealer, pimp, & gang leader of the Third Street-Nice is we also got a look at his past

I found this one a Lil different than other books in this series. Would have liked a little more action, the the connection between the two main character that part was good , it’s just the rest the book that didn’t stand up to my liking … So I’m sorry to say that this was some what of dud on the action for me.. the romance part was on point

📚 Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion & my honest review 💕 + Also I wouldn’t never discourage anyone from reading this book.

💕 ✎Paulette Review ❤💕

[Jessica Gadziala · Rating 5 out of 5]

GET YOUR COPY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07484DXK9/...

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful book!!!

[Alex ♈]

No rating coz I liked other books by this author.

Either I'm ODed on this author or the book wasn't that brilliant.
The 2nd one in this series without much sense to me.

The heroine was ok till she fell for the male protagonist and tried to redeem his past.
Sorry, but not sorry. He was a gang leader, he prostituted women and sold DRUGS. My limit on dark and illegal is always hard, when they deal with drugs. There was no actual reason and no redemption for him, IMO of course. And she tried to comfort him, coz apparently it wasn't his fault that women became prostitutes and people took drugs. I don't quite agree. Of course it's a personal choice, but it's also a personal choice to earn the money by selling women and DRUGS.
There is no redemption for such people.
IMO.

Looking forward to you judging me!

[Dusti Hanrahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
I always love reading this author, she has a way of writing that-for me- flows easily and quickly. Enzo was off the charts sexy (but Paine is still in my top 3 of any man she's written 😘)
There was a little bit of attitude, little bit of super hot sex mixed w a little big of drama. It was not over the top, it was entertaining and I had a hard time putting it down. I love all of X's employees and friends....

I'm a little intrigued.... I want a grown up super sexy Atien story!! (*hint hint/cough cough*)

[~ Cariad ~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 'sooooo f'ing good' stars for me.

I swear, this sort of calm, happy feeling comes over me when I see the words Navesink Bank!!
LOL they're like my reading comfort blanket!!

[JudyCa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked Enzo and Espen! I love getting caught up with all the crew as well. I cannot wait for Reece!!!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

abso-freaking-loved it! I dont think I've ever not loved a Jessica Gadziala book but just thought I would reiterate that fact..

Enzo my man you were not introduced in the greatest light many books ago but since then you have redeemed yourself and now your making a huge change in your life. And no better place to restart that life than with working with PI Xander Rhodes (got a soft spot for him – his was the second book of Jessica's I read back in 2015 and I fell in love with the Dark world characters – again I love all her characters but some have a special place in my reading heart.)

Espen – you are the epitome of a Jessica Gadziala female character. Tough as nails with a smart mouth. You were perfect for Enzo..

If your reading this review and havent tried any of Jessica's books – what are you waiting for. There are a gazillion to read and in some form they are all connected and you always get to see all your favorite characters from previous books.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely great!!!

Loved this book, love it when the herione is so strong and independent. Enzo is the perfect hero (the type of man you want your son's to be). Jessica is a great storyteller, love all her books.

[JLOluvsbooks&dogs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart warming

I liked that this installment of the off-shoot of Navesink Boys was a bit on the softer side. It was a nice change up, although I love the darker stuff too. Enzo was an interesting softie with good manners. Espen I was worried I might not like, but it didn't take long because her idiosyncrasies made sense and didn't make her an unmovable hard-ass and so it worked for me. :)

There was an unusual bit of repetition in a few parts when describing Gabe and how he and Xander knew each other but it didn't detract at all from the story for me. I enjoyed the new secondary characters we discover in Enzo's story and that means ....... more potential books from Jessica!!! Just throwin' that out there.

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Espen and Enzos story

[SHANNON · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional, real, and sweet are just a few words to describe this book.

I have loved every book I have read of Jessica's. I go through so many emotions when reading her books. I recommend ALL of her books. Keep up the good work Jessica. Looking forward to more of your books.

[jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another masterpiece!

I love Enso and Espens story! Espen is a strong independent woman! Jessica Gadziala really did an amazing job with this story!

[Shanda Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica continues to write books that I fall in love with the story lines gives you both strong leading characters that you love to see fall in love!! #automatic one click author

[Christen · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED Dark Horse! And I especially love how Jessica puts a book out just when I need JG fix the most! This one hit the spot!

[Bette Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent

Great story as Enzo and Aspen compete for a job in Xanders PI agency. Each starting over and trying to prove themselves. As they grow closer it's hard to forget that by winning they may lose something important.

Found this one a little different than other books in this series. Would have liked a little more action but still a good story.

[Elaine Lucky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enzo & Espen story. Enzo (former 3rd street gang leader & Paine, Kenzi, & Reese's brother) is making a way for himself out of Navesink Bank and working for Xander on a trial basis as a P.I. in training. There's competition for that job in the form of Espen. She's a fiery P.I. breaking from her father's firm to make her own way. The two of them clash and compete for the job Xander is offering as sparks fly. A few new characters Kane, Ra, & Daya. Sunday dinner at Gina's house gets bigger with the shenanigans of Shooter and the kitchen wars with Alex and Kenzi. A redemption story for Enzo navigating his way from the former gang life to legal workings and his chance at love with a woman who will be with him despite his background. Loving this Navesink Bank universe and the players.

[Eleanor · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Dark Horse Stars

Jessica has done it again, A brilliant book with like-able and strong characters that you get your teeth into and cant put the book down until you've read the last page. How she keeps writing these brilliant books and coming up with such fantastic characters time after time with plots that just blow your mind is beyond me! 

I loved Enzo and Espen and they were just perfect for each other. I really liked that we saw a softer side to Enzo which was so surprising to me from previous books.  We also got a look at his past, although we have kinda heard most of his past in previous books it was good to have a refresher. Espen is one kicks ass chick who is afraid to let anyone do anything for her in case anyone thinks she's weak. It was interesting and entertaining watching her drop her walls to let Enzo in.

I love how Jessica links all her books and we get to hear from previous characters as well. It's always a pleasure and as always I'm excited for her next book to hit Amazon. 

http://realtastypages.com

[Krystyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I was hoping for and more!!

I knew that Enzo's story would be great. He's made appearances in a few of the other books and I knew that once we got his story everyone would already love him.

Enzo is a man raised right but made not so great life choices. He's now trying to turn his life around. A part of this is a job and the only thing standing in his way is the independent firecracker Espen.

Espen was raised to be a PI, she's a strong women raised by a strong father. She wants to show the men she can do whatever they can she just didn't know she had competition, especially as hott as Enzo.

Things take a crazy turn and it brings everyone working together but pushes Enzo and Espen closer.
I love the way this story flows and you can feel the tension from the beginning. Great addition to our already huge world.
I can't wait to see who is next Reese? Kane? Ra would be amazing!

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark horse is the story of Espen and Enzo. You know Enzo from the Savages series as Paine's brother, and former Third street thug. This romance follows Espen and Enzo's desperate competition to land the ideal job working for private investigator Xander. During their story we experience Espen's independence and Enzo's "coming clean". These 2 make a perfect pair and of course there is a great happy ending. Don't miss this one.

[Jill Oates · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the change of pace in this book - it made for a different read.

There was the background story line for the investigation but the story of Enzo and Espen and how they came to this position was really good. I liked that the investigation didn't overtake that part of the story.

I can't decide which story I want next (can't wait for Eli) but would really love Brock and Gabe soon.

[Cheryl Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic -- I wanna be Enzo's honey!!

This was another fantastic book by Jessica Gadziala. Yet again she drew me in from the very start, and I never wanted to put this book down. Enzo and Espen are a special couple who each have something to prove to the outside world. For Enzo to have the background that he does, from the very beginning he shows such a caring and sweet side to Espen. I loved this book and I can't say it enough how awesome Jessica is.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes for Enzo and Espen!!

Finally a book to pull me out of my funk! It took longer than normal for me to read this book because life gets a little crazy but finally so happy I was able to read about these two special characters. I really enjoyed the story and interaction between the characters from the hero and heroine to the side characters many of us have already read and come to love. It makes my heart happy when we get to check in with past characters. Espen was a refreshing female character, she was strong both mentally and physically. Don't even get me started on Enzo! Love the Dark series and I hope it becomes a fan favorite because the story lines are awesome.

[Heather Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just Wow! Great read. It started a little slow for me, but then it took off. I loved the characters and how strong they were. Love the plot and how it just sucked me in and didn't let me go until the end.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

RE-READ 11-07-2021: Espen worked my nerves a little at first with that big chip on her shoulder about being a woman and not needing a man. Once she realized that Enzo respected women and had no plans of holding her back, she loosened up and I enjoyed the remainder of the story. I adore Enzo and I loved reading their story again.

ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I've been waiting on Enzo's book and was thrilled to finally get his story. Turns out that our hard, ex-gang boss is a big ol' sweetheart underneath all that good looking bada$$iness.

Starting his new life after being the leader of the Third Street Gang, Enzo is determined to make his family proud working as a private investigator. On his first day of work he meets the fiery and beautiful Espen who takes his breath away. He and Espen both want the same job and have to work together pretty much competing for the position. Their attraction to each other is intense and they have to fight not to give in knowing it's what they both want.

Enzo and Espen were perfect for each other. I liked that we saw a softer side to Enzo and also got a look at his past. As stubborn as Espen was, it was entertaining watching her drop her walls and allowing herself to be taken care of by Enzo. We also got to meet some new characters and I hope to see more of them in the future, especially Kane. I'm also anxious to get Reese's story. I bet when she falls, she falls really hard and will have all those men in her life trying to kill whoever she ends up with.

4.5 stars

[Elisa Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is simply put amazing. I have been waiting and imagining what Enzo's HEA would be and Jessica did not disappoint. Espn is the perfect strong willed "I Got This" independent women. They are just perfect for each other. Enzo gives Espn the space to take care of herself and in return Espn gives Enzo that soft spot he needs to protect and love. Sorry Kenzi not sorry I am as talented in the kitchen as Espn and Alex lol. Love the strong female characters Jessica writes as well as theses swoon worthy Alpha males who have their backs. I highly recommended this book. I highly recommended this series if you haven't read it yet. Money well spent Jessica Gadziala will not disappoint. 😘

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

DISCLAIMER TO MY FELLOW GOODREADER
This review is my personal opinion and may contain: spoilers, quotes, rants and swearing.

My original review was deleted. The Goodreads app hates me... really getting on my last fucking nerve.

39-40 something Enzo recently moved to New York City for a fresh start. His decade long reign of the Third Street Gang was overthrown violently. Since his skills are of the criminal variety, he anticipates the opportunity to become a private investigator will be good for him. Unfortunately, a beautiful woman stands in his way. The pull of his past in Navesink Bank is too strong. He must not fail.

“And, hell, if he wanted a man who was willing to do what it took, willing to walk into a lion's den waving around a piece of meat, well, Enzo was pretty sure he was the man for the job. He was hungry, plain and simple. To prove himself. To prove to those around him that he could do it. He could reform. He could rebuild his life. He could be something more.”

Mid to late 20 something Espen Locklear was raised by her father to be independent, confident and strong willed. She graduated college with a degree in Computer Froseniccs and passed the private investigators exam to follow in his footsteps. After years of dealing with being underestimated and taken advantage of, Espen decided to leave the safety net and spread her wings. The only issue is that there is someone standing in her way of succeeding. She will prove herself.

“Life gave you all your quirks, your eccentricities, your preferences, and your ticks.”

Since I read other books in the Navesink Bank world I already knew of this coupling. But I needed to experience their story. As always Jessica Gadziala draws you in with her charming characters and fictional world.

Cliffhanger - no (book #3 of series)
POV - Enzo, Eden & Annie

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not usually one for mystery-style romances, but this series has had me from the beginning, and this book actually got me more than most. It's more intense on the character and romance developed then it is on the mystery - which is great because Espen and Enzo deserve that.

Espen has spent too much time being discounted as a PI - both because of her gender and her family connections. She need the job with Rhodes Investigation to make her own way.
Enzo just left a street gang and needs a new job, a new city, and a new life. Probably the only person willing to hire a former gang leader is a less-than-above-board PI firm like Rhodes. This is Enzo's opportunity to start over.

Even if they hadn't been competing for the same job they would have clashed. Their chemistry sizzles just when they glance at each other - add in the on-the-job stress and the whole book is a powder keg. But underneath that tension is Enzo's fear of admitting his past and having it ruin any progress he has made in winning over the stubbornly independent Espen. And Espen has worked too hard to let a man stall her career or hold her back from success. Their current case, luckily for us, is going to be just dangerous enough to force them into close quarters to figure it out.

[tito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story by Jessica. I've been waiting for Enzo and you didn't disappoint. I love that you made a badass a teddy bear when he met Espen. Espen was strong as nails with a lot to prove. All your leading ladies are just as empowering as your men. You always write a
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book and you're the fucking Queen of epilogue's. I feel cheated now if other authors don't give me my epilogue. Your a beautiful person Jessica just keep doing what your doing. Your writing is perfection. 😘

[Fiction Junkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Enzo. His past was crazy, which we seen in the Henchmen series, but, I definitely loved this story. Perfect read.