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Down & Dirty #2

Down & Dirty #2

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Dive into a whole new world of deception, love and family with Shameless Southern Nights, a new contemporary romance series from USA Today Bestselling Authors J.H. Croix & Ali Parker

Losing the only woman who’d ever jacked my defenses hurt.

Life rolled the dice, and we lost. For now. I’ll do whatever is necessary to get her back.

Marie left to protect me, and I had no choice but to revisit my past, to try and set things right.

She and her son had become the ray of light in my life. I’d be damned if I let someone snuff out that light.

The more time I spent with her, the more I knew she held my heart in her hands. There were never enough nights with her, not when she owned me heart, body, and soul, and I intended to do the same with her.

A ghost from her past was playing games with her life, with her safety. I stared it down, determined to protect her, to make her safe once and for all.

*This is Book 2 of the Down & Dirty trilogy. You will have to purchase book 3 to continue the saga. The next trilogy, Slow and Steady will tell the story of Sonny, one of the other brothers.

195 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 5, 2018

23 people are currently reading
187 people want to read

About the author

J.H. Croix

204 books1,493 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author J. H. Croix lives in a small town in the historical farmlands of Maine with her husband and two spoiled dogs. Croix writes steamy contemporary romance with strong independent women and rugged alpha men who aren't afraid to show some emotion. Her love for quirky small-towns and the characters that inhabit them shines through in her writing. Take a walk on the wild side of romance with her bestselling novels!


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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Nicole.
420 reviews17 followers
August 3, 2018
So I already know that Jeremy and Marie end up together so it almost is a spoiler. I already knew that Marie was going to let Jeremy back into her and Austin's life. Again I loved seeing their relationship grow and develop. Wesley is like the ultimate worst bad character ever....for real
Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,772 reviews41 followers
May 3, 2018
It's here... It's here... Book 2 it's here and I can't wait to read it...
If you are following my reviews you know that I love these two ladies and having the chance to read another book from them is like having an ice cream on a hot day...
Their writing is intense and beautiful with a touch of suspense and mystery... And don't forget the hot part...
Down and Dirty book 2 out and continues to tell the stories of Jeremy and Marie. But I need to tell you something. This book is not a standalone therefor you should read book 1 first...
If you had read book one, you know that Jeremy and Marie had developed feelings for each other but Marie's ex-husband is making their lifes a living hell.
How can you be truly happy when danger is just around the corner? How can you give yourself completely when you live in constant fear?
I can't talk more without spoiling so I'm going to shut it.
This story was even more intense then the first book. The plot is amazing, very well written, super engaging and sometimes scary.
When I thought that things were going to be okay I was hit with a new development that made my head spin. Madness, craziness were lurking in each page and I must say that I couldn't stop. I wanted to hurt someone but at the same time I wanted to hold them...
I want book 3 asap.... I need answers... I need closure... Seriously...
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
2,148 reviews30 followers
May 25, 2019
My review will mostly be for the full 3 parts, since it's hard to review parts within a serial on their own.

I enjoyed it, but I did have some frustrations with the story that kept it from being a full 4 stars, and instead it's 3+ for me.

First of all, I had a complaint about my Kindle copy. The free copy I downloaded was supposed to be 1-3 of Down and Dirty, all in one volume. Then I get to the end of the first part, and nothing more! Just the cliffhanger! And no way to download parts 2 and 3, because they're just being offered as the bundle. Was REALLY frustrating. It did, however, get worked out. Had to update, re-download, etc. and then I had the full copy on my Kindle. SO, be warned, I guess, and learn from my frustration. Maybe you just need to re-log in and re-download everything.

On to the review...

As I said in my review for Part 1, it's a pretty standard premise, though the characters are likeable. I think Jeremy's pretty sweet, and I like Marie, though both are pretty stereotypical characters.

The writing is pretty well done. I've enjoyed a lot of Croix's books (love her Brit Boys series), though I haven't read any of Ali Parker's yet.

What bothered me most was the "trilogy" aspect of it, and it showed the most in this section. I say "trilogy" because it's really more of a three-volume novel - none of the parts stand on their own. This is the section where you can feel the padding the most, I think. There's a lot of drama with Marie's ex and his threats and the custody case looming, but it feels like nothing really happens It's a waiting game for the court case with Marie stressing the whole time about losing custody.

In short, a bit overlong to stretch it into 3 volumes-worth. Pretty formulaic set-up and storyline. Likeable characters, though, and pretty easy reading. No cheating. If you get it in a single volume, Jeremy and Marie's story is a HEA. But if it's just part 2, then yes, comes from one cliffhanger to end in another. Three-volume novel, remember?
Profile Image for Amelia.
794 reviews19 followers
April 6, 2018
In the second installment of the Down and Dirty trilogy, Jeremy and Marie must face a wide range of obstacles in their relationship, and each hurdle is depicted with much realism. When two people start seeing each other, there might be some hitches along the way as aspects of their lives intrude. But for this couple, the complications mount up way too fast, and could definitely impact the direction of how things move forward for them. I was even more immersed in what would ultimately happen to Jeremy and Marie in this book, because of the large number of dilemmas that could greatly affect their future together. J.H. Croix and Ali Parker made every development in DOWN & DIRTY #2 engaging and believable.

Before Marie Nix came to live in Cypress Creek and surprisingly became a part of Jeremy Lovett’s life, he thought short hookups were the only kind of relationship for him. Yet her tempting body and more importantly her pleasant personality changed his mind, and he would like to be with her every single day. Even learning she has a son does not discourage him from wishing to be with her exclusively. But when the trouble from which Marie hoped to escape follows her, nothing will stop Jeremy from making sure her problem is permanently gone.

While the first book about this couple was enlightening and always enjoyable, this story had me becoming even more emotionally involved in the lives of Jeremy and Marie. Whether they were achieving intense sexual fulfillment or struggling with an unexpected incident, I thought of these two as real people experiencing whatever life throws at them. The stories that I have read in the past by J.H. Croix and Ali Parker have repeatedly been emotional and often dramatic, and their first series written together is unforgettable.

I voluntarily wrote a review after receiving a copy of the book via Booksprout
Profile Image for Raecharmed.
9,295 reviews70 followers
April 13, 2018
This is the second installment in this series and is just as good as the first one was.

Marie finally admits to Jeremy why she ended things with him and they start to see each other again. Even with their eyes wide open to Marie's ex's threat nothing prepared them for how far he would really go. Wesley starts popping up all around town and even though he was threatening them without any physical harm nothing could be done. Marie tried to push it to the back of her mind while she explored what was going on with her and Jeremy. Jeremy knew that he wanted both Marie and Austin in his life but obstacles kept coming up. Just when they start to breathe a sigh of relief Marie is served with papers fighting for custody of Austin and when things seem like they couldn't get any worse she is forced to go back to Savannah until the custody is settle. Will Marie lose custody of her son? Will her relationship with Jeremy end with her having to move?

This was a great story and will keep you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen next. The chemistry between Jeremy and Marie is scorching hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this to anyone that loves a great love story. There is a cliff hanger but its well wroth reading and waiting for the next installment.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. I enjoyed it so much I bought my own copy.
1,262 reviews6 followers
April 8, 2018
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving my review

OMG Love this second part and can't wait for the third. I know this happens more often that not in real life but it surprised me how nothing can be done when someone is stalking and harassing you until they actually do something. This story talks about the abuse Marie and Austin went through before she left her ex and how he continues to harass and tries to control her life and threatens Marie or whoever she may be seeing so Marie won't see anyone else but he doesn't really want her either. I can't believe that Marie's ex is able to continue to harass and stalk her the way he does. Just as her and Austin are starting to settle in their new home and town and feel safe again, he comes back and starts threatening her or more so Jeremy if she didn't quit seeing him. When Jeremy convinces her he is there to help her no matter what they find an attorney. When her ex realizes that Jeremy isn't going anywhere he lies to get a court order to make her and Austin move back to Savannah. Can her lawyer get this blocked? Will she really have to move? Will Jeremy still be there to fight the fight with her like he said or will she go back to fighting it on her own?
1,095 reviews5 followers
April 14, 2018
Down & Dirty #2 A Shameless Southern Nights Novel by J.H. Croix & Ali Parker
5 Stars

“Why are you still here? I’m not worth all this trouble I keep putting you through.”

I had anxiously awaited book 2 and while you don’t have to read book one first I would recommend it. There are little recaps sprinkled through this book to keep you caught up incase you haven’t read the beginning of the series. I’m hanging on by a thread with this cliffhanger and can’t wait to read the conclusion in book 3. My heart is hammering away in anticipation.

“...words didn’t mean much. They weren’t the ones living with their hearts torn in half.”

While we get to understand more about the history of these characters and the way they were raised, what they privately hope for the future... we still don’t know what the future holds.

Just when things look hopeful the rug gets pulled from under them. There are more threats, secrets, dreams shattered, joy, hope for the future, friendships formed, sense of possession and protection yet at the same time fear and sense of hopelessness.

“I’d known their were risks. He was crazy jealous, had been the entire time we were together. I’d placed both in danger...he still managed to wreak havoc in my life.”
Profile Image for Julianne Macneil.
3,697 reviews28 followers
April 17, 2018
I read this book as part of an arc program. This is the second book in the Down & Dirty trilogy. In this book, we start off with Jeremy wondering why Marie ended things and wanting her back. When Jeremy asks Sonny, his brother about Marie's ex Wesley, he learns just how bad he is. Jeremy wants to protect Marie and Austin and Marie wants to be with Jeremy. When Jeremy tells her he will be there for her, Marie is relieved and they continue their relationship. Things are going well until Wesley sues for custody of Austin. Jeremy and Marie are getting closer and their relationship is getting stronger. They decide to fight the custody suit and hire a good lawyer who tells them they have a good case. Jeremy is given the business from his good friend Doc and continues to work hard. Things are going good until even more obstacles are thrown their way and cause them even more challenges. I loved this second book, I love the relationship between Jeremy and Marie. I think Austin is an adorable kid and I love how Jeremy is with him. I can't wait for the final book in this trilogy and for the brother's books.
Profile Image for Lexee Toste.
2,822 reviews19 followers
April 13, 2018
I enjoyed this story. It picks up right where book #1 ends. This is part of a trilogy and you definitely need to read book #1. It does end on a cliffhanger as well. Nothing life or death but I definitely need the next book as soon as possible. I really enjoy the way that Marie and Jeremy interact with each other. Jeremy is such a great guy and is handling the single mom situation perfectly. He's taking things slow and not having to show the relationship in front of Austin. Marie's ex is causing major havoc in this book. He tries to break them up and then decides to sue for custody. He doesn't care about his son, just about punishing Marie. The sex is fairly explicit and it is a part of the story. It blends well and fits both the characters and the story. There is some intrigue and a few plot points that could definitely be some twists later on. I really like the way that this story flows and is unfolding. I can't wait for Marie, Jeremy, and Austin to get their happy ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Carolyne.
213 reviews
April 12, 2018
What a cliffhanger! Marie and Jeremy have gotten so close to each other and are on the brink of discovering something neither was ever expecting, yet the ex from hell is one tenacious bast*rd. I spent half the book waiting for the other shoe to drop. Meanwhile, Marie and Jeremy have mastered the art of making every second count, especially those hours between Austin’s bedtime and sunrise...! It’s great to see that a single mom can still have an amazing sex life! I just love those two together and have been rooting for their paths to converge on a permanent basis, while I have come to really be pissed off at Wesley. I keep on wanting to rip into the story and tell him to leave Marie and her son the f*ck alone! I guess the authors did a good job of riling me up (which is rather rare for me) and getting me invested in this couple’s HEA :) I’m so ready for book 3!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mandy Saial.
1,155 reviews
April 15, 2018
After breaking up with Jeremy to protect him , Marie must deal with the constant harassment from her creepy AF abusive ex Wesley on her own .I would have been down at that police station so many times to report him .Everyone 's head would spin . Anything to keep my child safe and insure that maniac didn't get custody .
It's real , emotional , very intense and scary .You see their fear coming off the pages .It takes a toll on everyone .You also feel the yearning and sexual tension building even more between Marie and Jeremy. They are so Sexy together.
I was so relieved when Marie finally confessed to Jeremy why she distanced herself from him .... at least she feels safer.
I love these characters , the suspense cuts like a knife in this tangled web they have to battle through may not be over , but the love they have for each other breathes true from every page .
I hope Marie , Austin and Jeremy get their HEA .
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
214 reviews
April 18, 2018
Book two picks up right where one ended, providing a smooth transition for the reader and for me, this is an important detail.

With so much pain and loss in his life, Jeremy had managed to shut down his feelings and hope for falling in love. When Marie and Austin entered, he dared hope for more and things seem to be moving forward a sudden shift occurs and evil enters the picture. Will it tear them apart?

Suddenly everything is off balance and a number of things happen to set shifts in motion. Much is going on, and a good measure of it behind the scenes so the reader is feeling anxious and needing some insight but once again, you have to wait for everything to fall into place and that will come about in book three where we have been promised a HEA, which I am anxiously awaiting!

Great story, interesting backstories, and smooth writing are the reasons for the five star review which the authors have earned in spite of the two cliffies!
469 reviews5 followers
September 22, 2018
Down & Dirty #2 was an amazing continuation of Jeremy and Marie’s story.
You must read the first book in this series to understand the second. Please don’t read this review before you read the first book or you will read spoilers.
This second book starts off right after the first book ended. Marie feels she needs to leave Jeremy to protect him, but it breaks his heart that she won’t believe in him and trust him.
Thankfully they get past that part, but evil Wesley isn’t done. He really finds some horrible ways to torment Marie. I hope he gets what’s coming to him in Book 3.
Marie and Jeremy’s relationship is just so romantic to read. Don’t we all wish we had a guy willing to go to those lengths to protect us? Jeremy really is an A+ book boyfriend. Plus, I am looking with Marie every time he turns around. I can’t wait to find out how they work everything out.
2,535 reviews87 followers
April 11, 2018
Cliffhanger warning***Read books in order*** After moving back to her hometown, Marie was finally starting to feel safe and move on with her life. Jeremy realized quickly that Marie and her son meant a lot to him, but her ex is determined to destroy it. Will Jeremy stand by Marie? Will Marie allow him into her heart?

This book just made me fall in love with these two characters even more. I love how protective Marie is and I didn't blame her for being scared. Was proud when she decided to give her and Jeremy another chance regardless of the threats. ABSOLUTELY love Jeremy. He went from a man who was determined to never having a family, to practically becoming a family man. Great read and cannot wait for the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
117 reviews2 followers
April 12, 2018
A great second book in this series making you want more. You have so many emotions pulling at you - wonderfully written with sexy, strong characters. This book continues from Book 1 and is the lead into Book 3. The tension continues with Marie and Jeremy and her vicious ex-boyfriend. Jeremy finally realizes he will do anything to protect Marie and her son. Hopefully as well in other parts of this series or stories, Jeremy’s brothers will get their own spotlight because they are involved so closely as a family. This book has drama, suspense, and lots of romance and sex! Definite cliffhanger leading into Book 3 with you anxious to read it. Great part to this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,603 reviews10 followers
April 13, 2018
This is book 2 in this series and it's just getting better and better. Marie and Jeremy are perfect for each other and things just keep getting in their way. Those things are Wesley, Marie's ex who just won't leave her alone. He's not only stalking her but now he's threatening to hurt Jeremy and take Austin away through a custody battle. Can these two people who are starting to realize what love really feels like come out the other side and be stronger than ever? I cannot wait to find out. This series so far is just fantastic. They are well written, I love the characters including Jeremy's brothers, the small town feel is great and the storyline is one that some people can truly relate too.
Profile Image for Joyce Black.
1,053 reviews7 followers
December 12, 2018
Stress or what? That is what basically is happening for the main male and female characters. It is amazing to learn that in some cases the law appears to be on the side of the perpetrator. The main female's ex is stalking her and the main male character. He is also able to lie convincingly enough to obtain a court order. A court order that the main female character must adhere to. Unbelievable! The main male character's brothers are assisting where they can legally. Then there are the ramifications to the innocent five year old. It will be interesting to see how this story plays out in book three. Good read!

I received an advance review copy of this novel and am learning an honest review.
Profile Image for Laila Viking.
4,090 reviews30 followers
April 15, 2018
A very emotional and well written story with great storyline and plot. The characters are likeable and well described. They have a lot that they have to go through before they can have their HEA. This is part 2 of 3 and it begin where the first ended. So it is not a standalone. You have to read the first part before this one.
Jeremy and Marie has a great way of being together. They just fit together. Jeremy is amazing with Marie and her child. They are interacting in a fantastic and not forced way. They are parents during the day and have amazing steamy hours during the night.
A story with an ex that is a bastard and where the couple have thrown a lot down at them.
Enjoyable read but it has a cliffhanger!
Profile Image for _booknerd.4ever_.
1,536 reviews11 followers
April 16, 2018
I'm still hooked! While I don't like cliffhangers, I received ARCs for Books 1 and 2 together so it made it a little easier. I can't wait for the conclusion in Book 3. I hope Jeremy gets his HEA with Marie and Austin. Austin is still my favorite character. I get tears in my eyes when reading the interaction between Jeremy and Austin. Those are very touching scenes. As I read, I can see the story of some of Jeremy's brothers in future books. The plot is still intriguing. The story-line flows smoothly throughout. The characters are developed and easily relatable. I love romantic suspense and these two authors appear to be very good at it.

I voluntarily read and received an ARC of this book...
Profile Image for Meghann Alford.
806 reviews13 followers
April 17, 2018
Man I was so freaking excited for book 2! Now I MUST HAVE book 3!! JH Croix and Ali Parker keep the suspense going in this series about Jeremy and Marie. First though, if you haven't read book 1 go back and read it! First because it's awesome and second because this book will make no sense without it. Now, in book 2 the uncertainty in Marie's life with her ex continue and the heat only flames higher with Jeremy. Theae two are perfect. And dangit this one made me cry! Loved it! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hero, Jeremy = 5/5
Heroine, Marie = 5/5
Chemistry = 5/5
Sex = 5/5
Plot = 4/5
Mystery = 3/5
Action =  2/5
Darkness = 3/5
Humor = 2/5
POV = dual
Would I recommend this book = yes
Would I re-read this book = yes
Would I read future books by this author = yes
Profile Image for April.
523 reviews5 followers
April 8, 2018
Book 2 picks up right up where the last left off. This series really hits home to me. A single mother trying to do what's best for her son. The relationship between Jeremy and Marie is hot and intense. This is one of the realistic stories I have read in a long time. The obstacles that the pair face in the book is frustrating. You feel for everything that Marie is going through. Jeremy is a great guy just trying to make sense of his feelings. How he steps up and deals with everything is a dream come true. I am looking forward to book 3 to see how this ends.
I voluntarily received a copy for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,436 reviews35 followers
April 11, 2018
My only criticism of this book is that it's part of a trilogy with cliffhanger endings. I love the characters and the setting. The story is very realistic as far as feeling trapped by a stalker and abuser. I know it's very hard to prosecute someone and as the victim it is very difficult to feel safe anywhere. I wish people like this could read this book and see what they are doing to the children especially but they wouldn't see themselves. They only blame others and think they are the victim. The whole situation is heart wrenching and I can't wait to read the last book in this trilogy.

I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
502 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2018
While I adore book one, things get true emotional weight here on an intimate level between Jeremy and Marie. This kind of relationship is a new territory for Jeremy in particular, and it's beautiful to see them grow and try to hold on to one another. That said, some significant bumps still exist, one in particular. The book is emotionally rewarding, exciting and I cannot wait for everything to be tied up in book 3 of the series. I very highly recommend this book, and the series and I hope you jump right in as soon as possible. It's incredible. This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
Profile Image for Natasha Ybarra.
244 reviews
April 16, 2018
Jeremy cannot get Marie out of his head and has no idea why she broke things off after he knew they were getting along so well. In his gut he knows it has something to do with her ex, Wesley. He decides that no matter what he is going to protect her and tells her so. Wesley decides to make his next move and force Marie to move back to their hometown by suing for custody of their child.
As Jeremy and Marie fall further in love and live tries to pull them apart, they are depending on one another to get through it all. I need to read the next book to find out what happens next!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Carol 27.
1,093 reviews
April 17, 2018
And the story goes on … ending on a cliffhanger 3 stars

This is the second installment of the “Shameless Southern Nights” trilogy. Marie and Jeremy have grown closer despite the serious threats looming over their future happiness – all triggered by her past. Several of Jeremy’s brothers have rallied their support, but is it too little too late? The story for me at this point is a little over-long and the suspense feels like it’s unfolding at a snail’s pace. So much so, that I’ve lost interest and won’t be reading the last installment. Perhaps the storyline could have played out as a duet – rather than a trilogy. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Victoria.
4,670 reviews
April 13, 2018
Part two is so emotional with what Marie and Jeremy are going through. I am so in love with Arcadian! His connection with Austin was lovely to read, as was Jeremy's with Austin.

This installment of Marie and Jeremy's story has good strong relationships which are written really well, be it lovers, brothers, fathers, friends, work colleagues or parent to child.

I'm still hooked and really can't wait for the final part of their story to become available!

I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an ARC.
Profile Image for Ramona.
854 reviews5 followers
April 14, 2018
When Jeremy finds out that Marie broke up with him to keep him safe from her ex Wesley well that wasn't going to fly. He made it clear that he was there to protect her and her son Austin but, her abusive Ex - threw a jack knife in that plan. You will also see more of Jeremy's criminal Father and the brother's torn apart by what has happened by his families past. If you love Suspense, Drama and Sexy love you will find it wrapped up together in the second part of Down and Dirty by Ali Parker and J. H. Croix who give it to you big ole' Southern doses.
Profile Image for Terri.
899 reviews
April 14, 2018
Book 2 and the plot thickens. This book continues the story of Marie, Jeremy, and Austin. Her ex Evil Wesley is back and wreaking havoc on Marie and Jeremy. Marie finally comes to her senses and let’s Jeremy back into their lives and allows him to help her with Wesley. We still have the mystery of Jeremy’s father and where all the money went and lots of other things going on. I received an early copy to read and review and give my honest opinion. I’m enjoying this series. Love both of these authors. I recommend but be aware it’s a cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
April 14, 2018
The drama and tension ratchet up in this second instalment of Jeremy and Marie’s story. Book one was all about setting the groundwork in place. Book two seems to be all about tossing obstacles in their way. Every time it looked like Jeremy and Marie might find the calm in the eye of the storm, more challenges were thrown at them to tear them apart. We also get a few more clues about the situation surrounding the Lovett patriarch and I think I see the foundations of some of the other brothers’ stories being laid here.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
205 reviews
April 15, 2018
Down & Dirty # 2: Bad Boy Romantic Suspense

How much more damage can Wesley inflict on single mom Marie or threaten love struck Jeremy. Some times the law does not seem blind or know certain people can be truthful. So much happens in the second book and suspense all around but I am betting on the truth willing out. Waiting for the final book of the trilogy to surface. My interest in the final book is at an all time high. Ali Parker and
J. H. Croix are a dynamic duo writing team - go team!

Diane W.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews

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