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To Serve and Seduce #1
Seduced by the Badge
Sworn to protect, tempted by desire
Chicago detective Armstrong Black follows the rules--his rules. When he's assigned to partner with an Atlanta detective who's hell-bent on bringing down criminals who targeted her sister, he's determined to stay in control. But stunning Danni Winstead is all blazing temper and sweet temptation. Working with her tests Armstrong's restraint; trusting her could put them both in fatal jeopardy...
Chicago detective Armstrong Black follows the rules--his rules. When he's assigned to partner with an Atlanta detective who's hell-bent on bringing down criminals who targeted her sister, he's determined to stay in control. But stunning Danni Winstead is all blazing temper and sweet temptation. Working with her tests Armstrong's restraint; trusting her could put them both in fatal jeopardy...
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 17, 2018
128 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Fletcher Mello
129 books202 followersFor Deborah Fletcher Mello, writing is as necessary as breathing and she firmly believes that if she could not write she would cease to exist. Her first novel, TAKE ME TO HEART, earned her a 2004 Romance Slam Jam nomination for Best New Author. In 2005 she received Book of the Year and Favorite Heroine nominations for her novel THE RIGHT SIDE OF LOVE. In 2008, Deborah won the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award for Best Series Romance for her ninth novel, TAME A WILD STALLION.
A true renaissance woman, Deborah's many career paths have included working as a retail buyer and size model for a national women's clothing chain, a finance manager for a well-known beverage organization, a sales manager for an infamous candy company, a telecommunications administrator and corporate trainer for a hotel-owning company, an art gallery director for a world-renowned artist, and an administrative consultant for multiple organizations throughout the United States. Deborah is also a licensed real estate broker and general building contractor.
Born and raised in Connecticut, Deborah maintains base camp in North Carolina but considers home to be wherever the moment moves her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 12, 2021
4 stars. This was a really good start to this series. I will say though that it read more like a HQN Intrigue novel than a Romantic Suspense. The romance between Danni and Armstrong is very much in the background and they don’t even say out loud to each other that they like one another until 60 something percent of the way through the book. I’m not complaining though as it definitely didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. I liked the romance the way it happened and I feel like Danni and Armstrong had really good chemistry.
Danni is a very likable heroine. She’s headstrong and determined and knows how to her hold her own but she’s also kind and loving. Armstrong was great. He’s a bit of a hard ass and grumpy but I loved how he was with Danni. He was protective but he respected her enough to never overstep or try to control her. They both are great at their jobs and he is worried about her getting hurt he trusts her and respects her. I loved it.
This story deals with some heavy and dark stuff such as prostitution and sex trafficking but I think the author did a good job handling it. It was heartbreaking to read about the girls that were caught up in that.
Everything wraps up well and there’s a HEA for Danni and Armstrong which I really liked. I’m excited to continue on with the rest of the series.
Danni is a very likable heroine. She’s headstrong and determined and knows how to her hold her own but she’s also kind and loving. Armstrong was great. He’s a bit of a hard ass and grumpy but I loved how he was with Danni. He was protective but he respected her enough to never overstep or try to control her. They both are great at their jobs and he is worried about her getting hurt he trusts her and respects her. I loved it.
This story deals with some heavy and dark stuff such as prostitution and sex trafficking but I think the author did a good job handling it. It was heartbreaking to read about the girls that were caught up in that.
Everything wraps up well and there’s a HEA for Danni and Armstrong which I really liked. I’m excited to continue on with the rest of the series.
October 25, 2018
3.5/5
Not as romantic as I hoped it would be - the romance is more to the background - but I enjoyed the storyline and characterizations very much!
September 1, 2021
3.5*
Armstrong is part of a task force investigating an organized crime/human trafficking syndicate. He is partnered with Danni, a detective from Atlanta whose sister might have been a target. As a result, she has a personal reason for bringing them down.
This was more about the investigation and undercover work to bring a horrible group down. It was light on the romance and dealt with serious subject matter (human trafficking, sexual abuse, you name it). There was some innuendo about one of the Blacks (Armstrong's family) being dirty, but nothing came of it.
Armstrong is part of a task force investigating an organized crime/human trafficking syndicate. He is partnered with Danni, a detective from Atlanta whose sister might have been a target. As a result, she has a personal reason for bringing them down.
This was more about the investigation and undercover work to bring a horrible group down. It was light on the romance and dealt with serious subject matter (human trafficking, sexual abuse, you name it). There was some innuendo about one of the Blacks (Armstrong's family) being dirty, but nothing came of it.
January 9, 2023
Fairly decent story, even though it was fairly predictable, with excellent character development. Deborah Fletcher Mello is a well known writer, so most know what to expect from her and as usual she delivers.
July 21, 2022
I dont know. Their "connection" feels a bit forced. The story relies heavily on the dangers of sex trafficking and trying to switch gears from sex crime to sexy time is impossible. Mello creates a tale of vengeance via a covert undercover operation then kills it with a romantic after thought.
March 17, 2019
Really Carlo?!?
This story was what I was looking for, I simply loved it. I only wish there was more time with Danni and Armstrong love build up, but the other side this story was good. Pius didn't fool me Not One lil bit. Keep'em coming D.F.Mello, now on to part 2
This story was what I was looking for, I simply loved it. I only wish there was more time with Danni and Armstrong love build up, but the other side this story was good. Pius didn't fool me Not One lil bit. Keep'em coming D.F.Mello, now on to part 2
May 22, 2018
Once again Ms. Mello has combined two serious subjects added a dash of romance giving us a great story. There are time when you are trusting a character, then in the next scene you are shaking your head saying oh no! A great mixture of mystery, suspense, and romance the story keeps you turning the pages to see what's next.
December 15, 2020
I’ve enjoyed some of Deborah Fletcher Mello’s novels for Kimani, so when I saw her starting a new series with Harlequin Romantic Suspense, I picked up Seduced by the Badge on a whim. While it has a few uneven spots, the book is still very readable, and I enjoyed this author’s jump from contemporary romance to romantic suspense.
Set in Chicago, the novel features Armstrong Black, a detective who is part of a joint task force investigating murders that appear to be tied to organized crime and human trafficking. Black is part of a respected Chicago family whose members work throughout law and law enforcement in the city. One gets the feeling that other members of the family may feature in future books, so I found myself reading with an eye toward who I’d like to know more about in later installments.
As the book opens, Armstrong learns of a new killing that may be related to his investigation and also learns that he has a new detective from Atlanta joining his task force. Danni Winstead has called in every favor she can think of to catch this assignment, not only because she has been working on crimes that may be related, but also because she believes that this investigation holds the key to figuring out who was behind a vicious attack on her sister.
Sparks fly between Armstrong and Danni right away. As the story developed, I found myself enjoying the interplay between them and looking forward to the rest of the book – which is always a good sign. It takes a little longer to get to know Danni, but right off the bat one can tell that Armstrong is confident and comfortable in his own skin, qualities that make him a likeable hero. Much is made throughout of the fact that Danni looks much younger than her actual age, but to the author’s credit, this does not go in the creepy direction that one sometimes finds in older romance novels where we are hit over the head with heroes fetishizing the heroine’s childlike appearance. In this book, Danni’s apparent youth comes into play more as a friendly joke or as a way for her to infiltrate a trafficking ring that preys upon young girls.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
Set in Chicago, the novel features Armstrong Black, a detective who is part of a joint task force investigating murders that appear to be tied to organized crime and human trafficking. Black is part of a respected Chicago family whose members work throughout law and law enforcement in the city. One gets the feeling that other members of the family may feature in future books, so I found myself reading with an eye toward who I’d like to know more about in later installments.
As the book opens, Armstrong learns of a new killing that may be related to his investigation and also learns that he has a new detective from Atlanta joining his task force. Danni Winstead has called in every favor she can think of to catch this assignment, not only because she has been working on crimes that may be related, but also because she believes that this investigation holds the key to figuring out who was behind a vicious attack on her sister.
Sparks fly between Armstrong and Danni right away. As the story developed, I found myself enjoying the interplay between them and looking forward to the rest of the book – which is always a good sign. It takes a little longer to get to know Danni, but right off the bat one can tell that Armstrong is confident and comfortable in his own skin, qualities that make him a likeable hero. Much is made throughout of the fact that Danni looks much younger than her actual age, but to the author’s credit, this does not go in the creepy direction that one sometimes finds in older romance novels where we are hit over the head with heroes fetishizing the heroine’s childlike appearance. In this book, Danni’s apparent youth comes into play more as a friendly joke or as a way for her to infiltrate a trafficking ring that preys upon young girls.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
June 12, 2018
Seduced by the Badge is an amazing read and great introduction to the Black family of the To Serve and Seduce series. I thoroughly enjoyed every page so much, I did not want to put this page-turner down. From the moment Chicago Detective Armstrong Black met Atlanta Detective Danielle "Danni" Winstead, they clicked and fell in sync. However, there is hesitancy due to the badge and a common goal to take down the bad guys behind a string of murders and sex trafficking that has hit close to home for Detective Winstead. They are both determined to bring down the bad guys all while trying to keep their feelings in check and dance to the tune of the badge instead of the true tune of their hearts. They must learn to trust one another and speak the same language. Seduce by the Badge has a level of mystery and suspense so intense that it keeps you hanging on to the last word of every page and turning with anticipation of what’s to come next. It has the right touch of twist and turns and of course romance that brings it all home for a romantic suspense.
Deborah Fletcher Mello did a wonderful job in book one with the characterization of the characters, especially the Black family. You feel connected to them like you know them and they are a part of your family. She takes you on a journey as Detective Black and Detective Winstead attempt to unfold and solve their case. I love Armstrong and Danni’s story. You will find yourself piecing the puzzle pieces together, solving the case with them, all while rooting for their love. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Deborah Fletcher Mello did a wonderful job in book one with the characterization of the characters, especially the Black family. You feel connected to them like you know them and they are a part of your family. She takes you on a journey as Detective Black and Detective Winstead attempt to unfold and solve their case. I love Armstrong and Danni’s story. You will find yourself piecing the puzzle pieces together, solving the case with them, all while rooting for their love. I look forward to the next book in this series.
June 6, 2018
Armstrong is assigned to a new partner Danni who is on a mission to take down a trafficking ring that went after her sister. She refuses to let anything get in her away even her new attractive partner Armstrong and he can either help out and stay at the sidelines or get out of her way but she will do everything in her power to go undercover and take down this ring
I loved how strong willed Danni was as a character. She didn't back down when others wanted her to back off. She was actually a bit bull headed about things charging in a not meaning to cause a bit of trouble with how she did things. I also loved that even though Armstrong didn't like the way she handled things he did make sure to stick around and make sure that his partner was safe because she's not willing to back down and he wants to be there for her. I also loved the connection between the two and that the relationship that they seemed to be forming didn't get in the way of the case that they were doing. I loved that Armstrong was also there to ground her and to not focus on work so much and to relax and slow things down a bit. Overall I thought that this book was pretty good I really enjoyed it.
I loved how strong willed Danni was as a character. She didn't back down when others wanted her to back off. She was actually a bit bull headed about things charging in a not meaning to cause a bit of trouble with how she did things. I also loved that even though Armstrong didn't like the way she handled things he did make sure to stick around and make sure that his partner was safe because she's not willing to back down and he wants to be there for her. I also loved the connection between the two and that the relationship that they seemed to be forming didn't get in the way of the case that they were doing. I loved that Armstrong was also there to ground her and to not focus on work so much and to relax and slow things down a bit. Overall I thought that this book was pretty good I really enjoyed it.
June 25, 2018
Sworn to protect, tempted by desire…Chicago (detective) Armstrong Black follows the rules—his rules. When he’s assigned to partner with an Atlanta (detective) who’s hell-bent on bringing down criminals who targeted and abducted her sister, he’s determined to stay in control. But stunning Danni Winstead is all blazing temper and sweet temptation. Working with her tests Armstrong’s restraint; trusting her could put them both in fatal jeopardy…She goes undercover, posing as a teen, with sex-trafficking ring. Discovering who the cleverly shady boss who is really in charge is challenges them all until the very end Danni knows 12 languages and hears a name when they interrogate the Czech man who kidnapped her sibling. Information from the party at the community mom’s house gives them information they need to start the search. Danni sneaks off alone and finds herself ensconced in the life easily.
i generally don't read suspense, but i know Mello's work as an author and couldn't pass up a chance to read another one of her books. i was not disappointed. anxiously awaiting the next book in the series
i generally don't read suspense, but i know Mello's work as an author and couldn't pass up a chance to read another one of her books. i was not disappointed. anxiously awaiting the next book in the series
May 31, 2018
I was invested in the suspense and while I figured out most of it pretty early on, I liked seeing how Deborah got us there. I was rooting for the secondary characters and hoping that they would get the endings they deserved. It wasn’t necessarily nail-biting for me, but I was definitely interested.
Now while I loved the suspense, the romance left a bit to be desired for me. I got that Armstrong and Danni liked each other but I didn’t really feel anything deeper. The chemistry was pretty tame. I felt like their attraction was on simmer throughout the whole book and I wanted to kick it up a few notches. It never got hot in the kitchen, so to speak. They progressed a little bit toward the end but I wasn’t as emotionally invested in the two of them by that time.
If you’re looking for a solid suspense novel with a sprinkle of attraction, I think Seduced by the Badge is a solid option to satisfy the need.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.**
Now while I loved the suspense, the romance left a bit to be desired for me. I got that Armstrong and Danni liked each other but I didn’t really feel anything deeper. The chemistry was pretty tame. I felt like their attraction was on simmer throughout the whole book and I wanted to kick it up a few notches. It never got hot in the kitchen, so to speak. They progressed a little bit toward the end but I wasn’t as emotionally invested in the two of them by that time.
If you’re looking for a solid suspense novel with a sprinkle of attraction, I think Seduced by the Badge is a solid option to satisfy the need.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.**
September 10, 2018
This book here had me in a lot of my emotions. I was trying to not to cry ,get made,I was like Armstrong I was ready to go in bust them all ,but it was not the right time we have to get more information first. So I sat back and kept reading . This book is a must read you will learn a lot in this book as the story line go on about Sex trafficking,how some of these girls get cought up in it . Deborah Mello once again you wrote an amazing book . Please get this sit down read it . Take your time dont rush though this book and you will enjoy this page Turner.
April 9, 2019
I really enjoyed this one and will definitely check out the other books in the series. I liked that while the heroine does run off half-cocked at times, she's at least competent and doesn't need rescuing (she can rescue her own darn self!). Given the plot, the hero and heroine do have to spend time apart, which means the romance isn't quite as robust as the suspense - but the romance does progress in a nice, believable manner and readers aren't subjected to any "Oh we're running for our lives, let's stop and have sex now!" nonsense.
A strong B-grade read for me.
A strong B-grade read for me.
May 8, 2019
Easy, fun read
My rating is more 3.75, not quite a 4, only because the mastermind was so obvious from the beginning. There were typos in my edition that were a nuisance. However, I enjoyed the characters. I usually expect and prefer my romance to have MORE romance than what was here. I guess more physical romance earlier in the novel. For the purpose of this novel, I understand the delay. I plan to read the second installment of this series and possibly more from this author. I do recommend.
My rating is more 3.75, not quite a 4, only because the mastermind was so obvious from the beginning. There were typos in my edition that were a nuisance. However, I enjoyed the characters. I usually expect and prefer my romance to have MORE romance than what was here. I guess more physical romance earlier in the novel. For the purpose of this novel, I understand the delay. I plan to read the second installment of this series and possibly more from this author. I do recommend.
June 20, 2018
Very Good
Had me guessing, I thought I had figured out who the bad guy was. This book had one thing I didn't see coming. A crooked cop. Cannot wait for the next story about the Black Family. One other thing I liked about this book was they didn't jump into bed on page two😊, they made it all the way to the end of the book before they had sex. I have enjoyed this author for years, Good Job
Had me guessing, I thought I had figured out who the bad guy was. This book had one thing I didn't see coming. A crooked cop. Cannot wait for the next story about the Black Family. One other thing I liked about this book was they didn't jump into bed on page two😊, they made it all the way to the end of the book before they had sex. I have enjoyed this author for years, Good Job
June 8, 2018
Suspense, drama,murder,mystery and romance! What do you do when you fall for the wrong guy ( your partner ),make a new friend(who might have dangerous secrets) and have a crime to solve? If you are Danni Winstead and your partner is Armstrong Black,you come out on top! Deborah Mello introduces us to a new family and I can't wait to meet the rest of the Blacks!
June 16, 2018
Good read!
It lacked some of the romance I was looking for being that I have read more of this Author's books it just did not hit home for me me. It just seemed like the relationship was... I don't know how to explain it. I would have liked it more if Danni and Armstrong had more of a getting to know each other phase. Overall good book.
It lacked some of the romance I was looking for being that I have read more of this Author's books it just did not hit home for me me. It just seemed like the relationship was... I don't know how to explain it. I would have liked it more if Danni and Armstrong had more of a getting to know each other phase. Overall good book.
June 29, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this new series by Deborah F. Mello. The storyline was good, the main characters were good and developed as well as the all of the secondary characters. The topic was ver relevant and the story flowed smoothly. It kept my attention the entire story. I would recommend that you put this story on your books to read list.
January 5, 2019
Dani is one brave women. The fact that she can pass for a teenager meant she got right into the heat of the investigation. I figured out pretty early who the bad guy was so it was a bit of a struggle to watch them miss the clues. Armstrong showed brilliant restraint in letting her do her job even as he is falling for.
A great read. Looking forward to book 2.
A great read. Looking forward to book 2.
June 2, 2019
Great storyline💯👏👏👏
Seduced by the Badge is Armstrong and Danni's story. Armstrong and Danni are teamed up to solve a case of missing or dead girls and young women. Danni's sister was kidnapped but she got away. There is an attraction between them but the case cones first. This book is rollercoaster ride of lies, deception, greed and secrets. Check it out!😉
Seduced by the Badge is Armstrong and Danni's story. Armstrong and Danni are teamed up to solve a case of missing or dead girls and young women. Danni's sister was kidnapped but she got away. There is an attraction between them but the case cones first. This book is rollercoaster ride of lies, deception, greed and secrets. Check it out!😉
October 14, 2020
Love The Love
Well-written, suspenseful, and captive. I loved almost every character, plot, and erotic moments. This novel could easily become a movie with a serious trafficking theme. Danni a nd Armstrong were wise to resist their sexual desires until after the job was completed. A Grand Applause!
Well-written, suspenseful, and captive. I loved almost every character, plot, and erotic moments. This novel could easily become a movie with a serious trafficking theme. Danni a nd Armstrong were wise to resist their sexual desires until after the job was completed. A Grand Applause!
May 4, 2023
Romance + Suspense = Perfection
This book was absolutely perfect for me! If you love a great crime show like I do, then this book is for you. Sprinkle some romance in with it then you've got a winner. The plot wasn't rushed and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the twist and turns and secrets! Can't wait to start the next one!
This book was absolutely perfect for me! If you love a great crime show like I do, then this book is for you. Sprinkle some romance in with it then you've got a winner. The plot wasn't rushed and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the twist and turns and secrets! Can't wait to start the next one!
April 10, 2018
I think this was more of a suspense with romantic elements than a romance. I loved the story. I also loved that Danni never stops being a badass or submits to Armstrong. This is one of the best stories I have read in a while.
May 20, 2018
Read this ARC. Totally enjoyed the story. Danni & Armstrong worked great together. The story kept you guessing and brought light to an issue that’s becoming more prevalent in our society. Looking forward to the next installment. Great job!
June 6, 2018
I really liked this romantic suspense. Straight from the headlines crime paired with honest mature characters. I can't wait to meet more of the Black family. Trigger warning for sexual violence themes.
June 25, 2018
Loved Danni and Armstrong story. Danni was so stubborn and bullheaded and kept Armstrong on his toes throughout the book. I wanted to smack her a time or two. Poor Armstrong was gone before he ever knew what hit him. Loved this story and can't wait to read more.
June 28, 2018
Deborah Mello created an interesting storyline between Armstrong and Danni. At times I wanted to scream at Danni to stop taking taking unnecessary chances and listen to Armstrong. I loved the story and it's a fantastic start to The Serve and Seduce series. I hope Simone's story is next.
July 12, 2018
Awesome
This was my first book that I read by this Author. I was flawed by this book! The story was amazing from the beginning to the end. Hot from the first page. Awesome, hot, exciting, family and love. I will be buying more books from her.
This was my first book that I read by this Author. I was flawed by this book! The story was amazing from the beginning to the end. Hot from the first page. Awesome, hot, exciting, family and love. I will be buying more books from her.
August 1, 2018
Different
This book was different from the typical sweet romance that I am used to for this author. I enjoyed the suspense. It kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was running the show. Great job.
This book was different from the typical sweet romance that I am used to for this author. I enjoyed the suspense. It kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was running the show. Great job.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews