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Bluegrass Security #3

Missing Desire

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Can love overcome the insecurities of the past?

Nita Brown is a big, beautiful, resilient woman. She’s endured the loss of a husband, the trials of raising three kids, and the joy of purchasing and running of her own business. But dealing with the issues her son has brought home at the same time meeting a man who sees her for who she is, now this just might bring her to her knees.

Chuck Layton is new in town. He followed his boss, Levi, to Bourbonville to continue working in his newly found profession. Learning the security business has helped him over-come the insecurities his father drilled into him his whole life, and this new case is honing his skills. But, just as he’s figured out what he wants to do with his life he finds he must weigh his livelihood against his growing love of Nita. Chuck has some decisions to make.

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First published November 2, 2017

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About the author

P.J. Fiala

69 books825 followers
I was born in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri named Bridgeton. During my time in Missouri, I explored the Ozarks, swam in the Mississippi River, played kickball and endless games of hide and seek with the neighborhood kids. Spending summers in Kentucky with my Grandmother, Ruth, are the fondest childhood memories for me.

At the age of thirteen, my family moved to Wisconsin to learn to farm. Yes, learn to farm! That was interesting. Taking city kids and throwing them on a farm with twenty-eight cows purchased from the Humane Society because they had been abused, was interesting. I learned to milk cows, the ins and outs of a breeding schedule, feeding schedule and the never ending haying in the summer and trying to stay warm in the winter. Our first winter in Wisconsin, we had thirty-six inches of snow in one storm and were snowed in our house for three days! Needless to say, I wasn’t loving Wisconsin.

I am now married with four children and three grandchildren. I have learned to love Wisconsin, though I still hate snow. Wisconsin and the United States are beautiful and my husband and I travel around by motorcycle seeing new sites and meeting new people. It never ceases to amaze me how many people are interested in where we are going and what we have seen along the way. At every gas station, restaurant and hotel, we have people come up to us and ask us about what we are doing and offering advice on which roads in the area are better than others and great rides others have been on if we are interested.

I come from a family of veterans. My grandfather, father, brother and two of my sons and one daughter-in-law are all veterans. Needless to say, I am proud. Proud to be an American and proud of the service my amazing family has given.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for QuinnReads.
3,735 reviews209 followers
July 26, 2023
Size Matters

PJ Fiala Bluegrass Security bk 03 Lethal Love

When it comes to size, neither Nita Brown nor Chuck Layton claim to be anything more or less than how they see themselves, but both struggle with the impact of past abuse and bullying. It's heart wrenching because both have big hearts and the very best of intentions.

I like how drawn they are to one another and the windy curves their budding relationship navigates. It's not all pleasant, in fact, some is downright wretched, but it forces their hand in some areas and shores up everything else along the way.

I found myself unable to feel bad for Nick and Dax and how their story plays out. I want to say more but won't.

I received an author's copy of the audio book. The narrators are Rose Dioro and Troy Duran. I've listened to a lot of their books and really do like them.

Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
Profile Image for Theresa Natole.
1,226 reviews21 followers
August 8, 2019
I just recently started reading PJ Fiala ' s books and I have to say they get better and better. Lethal Love is so well written. It will have you glued to every word from the first to the last. I could not put it down. Nita came with baggage. The mother of three practically grown children. Her daughters were great. Her son had been a problem since her husband passed away. She didn't know if she should get involved with Chuck and subject him to what was going on In her life. She also was not happy with her appearance. She felt she was unattractive and overweight. But Chuck made her feel beautiful.

I love how PJ Fiala made this story believable. The way she wrote her son and how Nita dealt with him was so realistic. Sad and heartbreaking but so believable. You feel the passion she has for her characters. You feel their hurt like it is happening to you and you feel their joy. PJ Fiala always gives her readers exactly what they want. A well written story that will leave you satisfied.
Profile Image for Belinda.
1,142 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2017
Nita is a BBW woman..Chuck has just moved to town and is working for Bluegrass Security..When he walks into Nita's salon he notices her right off the bat. She is the one that cuts his hair..For him she turns him on and the more she runs her hands through his hair the more excited he gets...They form a quick bond..she asks him over for a dinner when her son comes in and gives them both grief and calls her name. Her son Dax is trouble with a capital T..While search for who is hurting dogs Chuck finds Dax's friend tortured but not telling anything...You soon find out what Dax and Nick have been up to. Nita is badly hurt and Chuck moves in to protect and help her. They become so close. With the help of him and her two daughters they move through what is going on..This was a really good book. You will fall in love with both Nita and Chuck..both have hurts from their pasts they have to overcome! A great book.
Profile Image for Melissa Hultz.
70 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2019
5 stars

Love this book and the whole series!! Chuck and Nita are my favorite though! They both had so much to give and found each other!! Love PJ Fiala and all her books!💖
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,644 reviews61 followers
September 3, 2019
Kudos to the author for a wonderfully written series that kept me glued to the pages. This series has become more thrilling, intense and exciting with each book. I love suspenseful, ex-military books and when I found this series I was hoping for the best and I was truly rewarded. The series is based on a security team and their intriguing cases.

After reading the first two in the series, Heart Thief and Finish Line, I was really looking forward to Chuck’s story. Nita, a widower with 3 children; 2 daughters in college and a very “difficult” son. Chuck meets her at her hair salon. Neither one is looking for a relationship but they are definitely attracted to one another. They both come from pasts that have cause for insecurities. These especially come to the surface for Nita when Chuck’s new case leads him to believe her son just might be a thief. But is he? What happens when the danger starts getting closer and closer?

Lethal Love is full of suspense, romance and excitement. While the book could be read alone, I highly recommend reading them in order for a much more exciting reading experience. 2 Thumbs Up and 5 stars for this outstanding addition to the Bluegrass Security Series.
Profile Image for Patty.
5,142 reviews55 followers
March 30, 2023
Lethal Love
Bluegrass Security, Book 3
By: PJ Fiala
Narrated by: Rose Dioro, Troy Duran

WOW! This one is fast paced, full of action and an undeniable chemistry that is hot! Chuck is new to Bluegrass Security, a rookie now given the chance to prove himself. He has to find out who is killing the dogs in town. Nita owns the salon and when she gives this man a haircut, the chemistry they have is off the charts. She is very insecure in her person and can't believe he is interested in her. But when things get dicey, their budding relationship may just be on the rocks before it gets the chance to take off. A mother's love, a need to prove himself and a undeniable force bringing them together, this is a fun, suspenseful ride. I loved it!

Troy Duran and Rose Dioro continue their fabulous narration of this series. Duran comes in as Chuck, full of confidence and ready to make his mark. He understands his character and makes him irresistible and incredibly good at his job! Dioro plays the insecure Nita, gives her that feeling of need to be loved, yet doesn't make her needy! I loved it! It's a listen you don't want to miss!
Profile Image for Ysobella Black.
Author 51 books3 followers
July 3, 2023
The third book in the series can be read as standalone. I will say that the mystery Chuck is assigned to solve begins in the prior novel. There's enough information given in this story to know what's going on, but for the full impact of Ammo I recommend reading at least the second book prior to this one.

From previous stories, my impression of Chuck was an eager puppy like personality, eager to please his bosses at Bluegrass Security. I was curious how his romance was going to go since he doesn't have the same military background or fighting experience as the others. Who knew there was a big protective wolf in him just waiting to get out?

When he meets Nita, there's instant chemistry. Unfortunately, her son is Chuck's suspect, and there's nothing more fierce than a mama wolf protecting her cubs. They've each got some other issues to work through as well, so their romance isn't easy, but they do find their happily ever after.

Rose Dioro and Troy Duran gave fantastic performances on the audiobook. Up
1,266 reviews6 followers
June 22, 2025
So many emotions that Chuck and Nita go through and help each other through

Nita is a single mom of grown children. Her oldest son has had a bad attitude and gotten into trouble since their dad died eight years ago. Now he is always asking for money and gets very mad when she starts telling him no. Chuck is an investigating the dog cruelty that has been happening and suspects Dax might be involved. This causes problems because she thinks he is using her to get to Dax. Their relationship is up and down for a while but when Dax steals from her and then later severely beats her, the both realize their true feelings. Will Chuck figure out who is abusing the dogs and why? Will he be able to find Dax and figure out what he is into before something else happens to Nita? Will the be able to protect Dax from serious trouble?
Profile Image for Denise.
4,119 reviews12 followers
November 2, 2017
When I am able to read this author I do because I know I will get quality writing with great characters. In this one you meet Chuck and Nita whom at the beginning you get the inside skinny on what is happening with them and how they feel. First time they meet I know they are for each other but this author will give it slow , filled with delicious heat and build it up with depth. As they grow though there will also be those who gotta give some excitement with the danger and drama. As who and what is going down unfolds you will have the sorrows a time or two for Nita. I ate this up fast thanks to the characters falling in love with these two coming to life as I read. I did not want it to end but it did even though I still had a question or two.
Profile Image for ANNBOOKSHELF.
1,111 reviews12 followers
November 1, 2020
We all are human with fault, to say we are our worse critics indeed true - to see ourselves as the one that loves us priceless!

Chuck the newest member and not ex military, but life left him lots of scares. He proving himself not to others but himself. He is part of the Bluegrass Security and really a grateful he has a Glass & appreciates anything he gets - everyone loves his happy personality. Nita a widower with three grown children. She suffers like most woman not appreciating all the gifts she has. No one lives up to twiggy model standards. It is a stressful "solve the case" story. A little more intense then the other books! Romance with heart. V3 abuse of defenseless sickening n advantage of lost soul despicable. S2 more reviews @my2centsbooklover! Thanks
Profile Image for Caroline Woodhall.
113 reviews5 followers
November 2, 2017
This is a really well written, it has everything from sexy romance , tense action and humour.
Chuck has come to start a new life away from a awful past caused by his father. He was thrilled to get a job at the security firm. Nita husband died and left her trying to bring up her family and her son Dax totally went off the rails. Nita also has low self-esteem as she thinks she big and who will want her. So when Chuck walks into her salon for a haircut, they both instantly fall for each other only it takes them 2 months to realize it properly.
It's a great storyline and drags you in and you don't want to put the book Down.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews257 followers
September 2, 2019
This is the 3rd book in this series and is Nita and Chuck’s story. Nita is a widow who owns her own beauty salon. Chuck is new is town as is working with Levi to learn the security business, and when he needs a hair cut he goes in Nita’s salon. There is explosive chemistry between them. While Chuck is on an investigation he finds that Nita needs his protection as her life is in danger. No spoilers; this series is a must read, you will not be disappointed. This is a well written story which has suspense, danger, drama, and love, which all had me hooked throughout. I recommend this authors’ work for all.
Profile Image for Sally Mieske.
297 reviews10 followers
September 7, 2019
Lethal Love is the third book in the Bluegrass Security Series. Chuck and Nita met in Nita’s hair salon. These two are my favorite in the series so far. Nita is widowed and raising three kids on her own. Chuck has escaped a horrible childhood and intent on proving himself at Bluegrass Security. Their lives further intwine, when Chuck’s case is leading him towards Nita’s oldest child. These two have so much to overcome, I’m so proud of who they become. I highly recommend this series! It’s fast paced, the characters are human and have flaws, and the investigations are so interesting! I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
3,187 reviews47 followers
March 24, 2023
Wonderful dual narration from Rose Dioro and Troy Duran

Chuck has moved from Nebraska. He starts working for Bluegrass Security firm. Chuck finds his job is being a investigator. His first case is to find out who's hurting dogs and dumping them on the side of the road.

Nita is a widow, she is trying to keep her son Dax from not totally going off the rails. In between this she owns a saloon. Nita has low self-esteem as she thinks she big and no one will ever want a woman with her curves. But fate has it ways. Chuck walks into her salon for a haircut, they both instantly fall for each
Sparks fly on both sides but neither is sure of the other one.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
October 29, 2017
Missing Desire (A Chandler County Novel) by PJ Fiala is a very good read. A well written book that offers an engaging storyline. Complex, likable characters that share a seamy chemistry. A great cast of secondary characters add depth and interest to the book. Missing Desire is a fun, emotional and sexy romance. Both characters backstories are touching and I felt badly for the things they had been through. A beautiful, passionate and romantic story that was a pleasure to read. I am posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.
978 reviews6 followers
April 3, 2023
Chuck and Nita's was a great story of two people overcoming a lot... their pasts, battling presents as Nita's son finds himself in Chuck's investigation, and misconstrued conceptions those pasts honed in them. It was so great to see quiet, timid Chuck get his HEA and rise within the investigative ranks at Bluegrass Security. Plenty of danger, action, and suspense as mysteries are solved in this fast-paced short story of finding love. And of course the narration was superb from Rose Dioro and Troy Duran.
Profile Image for Anja.
1,261 reviews8 followers
April 26, 2023
I voluntarily listened to the audiobook provided by the author in exchange for a review. I had Chuck pegged as a newbie in his early twenties from the previous books in the series - guess I’ve been quite wrong. Anyway, when he sees Nita for the first time, it’s like worlds collide and he’ll never be the same again. Add in some „things“ going on with Nita’s son a a very protective Chuck and you’ll have a interesting story. The narrators once again made this audiobook very worthwhile listening to. Great.
Profile Image for Tami czenkus.
1,551 reviews24 followers
November 15, 2017
I have been waiting for Chucks story ever since we met him in Levi's book!!!
All of the angst was there as well as a story of forgiveness and finding love where you least expect it.
Nita and Chuck are cut from the same cloth, but they are too scared and stubborn to realize that what your heart tells you to love, you should jump in with both feet!!!
I can't wait to read more from the Chandler county gang!!
1,019 reviews4 followers
February 9, 2018
Missing Desire (A Chandler County Novel)

Priceless Story to some, I liked the book, old fashioned way it was written by the author. It was plain and not the type of book that and use to read, but I have it a shot, you either get me on the hook, the first chapter of I lose interest in the book! The author is in known by me, so I can't say I liked how much I liked the author! Pleased Enjoy!
626 reviews4 followers
March 28, 2023
Well written, and realistic story. A mother is always a mother no matter how old her kids get, or how far they stray. The emotional conflict of protecting your kids, regardless, and making them responsible for their own actions. Toss in the conflict of falling for a man who enforces the law, and chemistry ignites. It was a good story, entertaining, and good narration.
I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
40 reviews
March 31, 2023
I am enjoying listening to this series in order but they can be read as standalones. Book three was just as engaging as books one and two. These books are a little shorter that what I usually read but nothing is missed in the story. It was exciting from chapter one. This is a series I will definitely go back and enjoy again.

The narrators performance is great and easy to listen to. I recommend this book and the series. Now onto book 4.
Profile Image for Gazelle.
839 reviews10 followers
March 31, 2023
Chuck and Nita have a great love story. I love that Nita is a BBW that I could truly relate to. She doesn’t think that Chuck would ever love her but sometimes it’s good to be proven wrong. Chuck’s newest case is to find out who is torturing dogs in the area. Nita has a troubled son who finds himself in the middle of Chuck’s investigation. Can Nita and Chuck get through the obstacles and find a HEA? Another great addition to the series and the narration was great.
Profile Image for A.
791 reviews
April 1, 2023
I loved Lethal Love’s characters. Chuck is trying to become an full investigator for Bluegrass Security. He meets Nita at the hair salon when he goes in for a cut. She thinks that she is a larger woman, but he sees her beauty inside and out. Lethal Love is steamy and suspenseful. Her son is in trouble, and he becomes part of Chuck’s investigation. Can they work through that? I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story. I couldn’t put it down.
Profile Image for Cherime MacFarlane.
Author 101 books614 followers
January 9, 2018
A big country boy is trying to earn a place in a security company. What he doesn't bargain for is finding his kind of woman in the place where he goes for a haircut.
Nita is taken by the man from the moment he enters her salon. But she is a big woman and not sure he could be interested in her. Things get complicated as his investigation escalates. Good book. Nice easy read.
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,998 reviews62 followers
September 3, 2019
I was so looking forward to Chuck’s story and it didn’t disappoint. Chuck and Nita are made for each other but they are too stubborn to realize it. This story is full of romance, suspense and a twist. It kept me captivated from the beginning until the end with the action. They are at a standstill with the romantic aspect in their relationship neither of them willing to make the first step. Who will make the first move? Will Nita open up about her son’s problems? I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Profile Image for Heather.
194 reviews1 follower
February 4, 2020
Chuck’s Romance

Having read the previous books in this series, I was interested to read how the author, PJ Fiala, would handle Chuck’s romance . I was delighted. Chuck had been portrayed in the earlier books as a friendly, loyal employee. It took meeting Nita for him to show his loving nature. Enjoyed all the twists and turns in the storyline.
Profile Image for Andrea Akers.
1,030 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2020
Lethal Love

Chuck wants to take on more responsibility within the firm so Mac and Dirks find an investigation that Chuck can take the lead on. While investigating, Chuck meets Nita and finds that her son Dax is in the middle of his case. Will Chuck and Nita get their happily ever after or will the fact that Dax being in the middle of Chuck's case year them apart?
Profile Image for Pauline Gage.
526 reviews
May 22, 2021
Another enjoyable story

Different approach to these characters, yet the same stoic basic goodness shows through within the storyline .I will reread all three in this series .
I have to admit I did get a little lost in some passages, when the focus of the narrative changed & had to check back & re-read for clarity.
Srill.Recommended !
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,253 reviews11 followers
April 19, 2022
Awesome Read!

Oh my gosh Chuck character is amazing but pain filled. Nitas life is so full of pain. But yet shes a strong women. Their journey bring your emotions pouring out yes even a few tears. You fall in love with their story. I cant wait to read the next one. This is a awesome series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

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