Slow & Steady #3

Slow & Steady #3

by J.H. Croix, Ali Parker

The Slow & Steady trilogy concludes!

A small town can hide many secrets. It can also expose every secret you have.

Niki shuts me out and shreds my heart in the process. Lost inside, I turn my attention to exposing the lies that put my father behind bars.

Yet, everything I do catches Niki in its wake. She means everything. She’s both my strength and my weakness.

With danger nipping at our heels, I’ll do whatever it takes to earn her love.

Niki

Sonny took me out of my comfort zone and showed me a world beyond my wildest dreams—the world in his arms.

Yet, loving Sonny means learning to live with the risks he takes every day. He’s also chasing down the threats to his family because his heart beats to the drum of loyalty.

I take the risks to my heart and soul because Sonny’s worth it all. I’ll fight for him, for us.

This is the final book in the Slow and Steady trilogy. Hope you enjoyed!

Genres: Romance

174 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 12, 2018

About the author

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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Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing conclusion to Sonny and Niki's story. I loved their HEA. I also loved that they were finally able to work through the issues that they had and make their relationships all that much more better. Amazing. For not having a lot of ratings this book is amazing. One of my favorite romance series I have read in a long time. I also loved all the secondary characters. I do wish we would see more Marie and Jeremy in this one though :(

[Ana Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally I'm getting my hands on this book because I have so many questions, so many fears, so many doubts waiting for an answer...
I couldn't sleep properly thinking about this book so I've started it right after ending book 2. Let's just say that I went to bed at 5am... And I regret nothing. Lol
Slow & Steady 3 is out and I'm hoping to have the news I want regarding Sonny and Nikki.
Book 1 and 2 from this trilogy were intense and breathtaking and the conclusion needs to be even better. But coming from these two ladies I don't doubt for a sec that it will be. So I advise you to read them first because they are not standalones.
Finally I got my answers and what answers those were.
Don't think that reading this book is like walking in the park because you will be consume by everything.
The plot is magnificent, very well written and super engaging.
Once you started to read it you will not be able to put it down for a sec. I tried... I really did but I couldn't.
This book presented us with love, loyalty, family but also decieve, crime, drama and suspense.
Each chapter was better than the last and there were parts of the book that I was afraid for them.
But will it all work in the end? Read and find out...
Amazing girls. Amazing book and I want to know... What's next? Will we have more from them? I really hope so.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful ending to this trilogy
This is book three in the Shameless Southern Nights Series and is the final book in the Slow and Steady trilogy. Niki and Sonny are finally able to put aside some of the tension from the first two books in the series. It great to see them realize they still love each other and have worked out things. This has been an incredible series that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Full of intense emotions, turmoil and lots of drama. Plenty of twists and surprises to keep you guessing. I read a reader copy and voluntarily chose to write a review.

[Laila Viking · Rating 4 out of 5]

A trilogy with so much depth to the story. I like it a lot. It is well written with heart from the authors. The characters are well described and it is a great honour to follow their journey towards their HEA. A lot is thrown down on them from fate but I cheered for them to get through it all.
Absolutely a series that is worth the read. All three books were amazing. I am normally not into cliffhangers but in this trilogy it was worth the wait.

[LMR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow and Steady #3: A Bad Boy Romantic Suspense (Shameless Southern Nights Book 6) By: J.H. Croix & Ali Parker
He's Uncovering The Past & Opening A Can of Worms...
He's sure there's something Fishy with his Dad's case... He's sure his Dad's at least not the ONLY ONE guilty, & there's serious corruption to be found...
But, once he starts digging, it seems there's Nightcrawlers surfacing faster than after a rainstorm in Spring, & they're creeping around everywhere, making it hard to know just who to trust...
Unfortunately, his investigation has brought his Se*y Little Librarian onto more than just his radar... Now, he's gotta protect her & keep her safe before she's bait for the bigger fish in this Crapshoot! But in keeping her safe will he also lose her FOREVER, or will she fight for them giving him another try by coming back?!
Seems the Corruption isn't stopping, threats are flying, & the tension is fastly reaching breaking point, but who's gonna be the first to break, & will it END in tragedy?!
Excellent 3nd & final installment to "Slow and Steady," an enthralling Read... I cannot wait for the next Segment in the "Shameless Southern Nights" Saga detailing these amazing characters' lives!! Bring on the next Glorious, Dramatic Chapters... I'm in suspended animation awaiting the deets!!
I was granted an ARC of J.H. Croix & Ali Parker's "Slow and Steady #3: A Bad Boy Romantic Suspense (Shameless Southern Nights Book 6)." These are talented authors. I gladly recommend this book & their others as well based upon their own merits. This series definitely provides a wonderful Reading Rabbit hole full of spectacular reading!! Their books are definitely books you'll read, Reread, & READ again several times & not tire of... I know I have. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given.
Until next time... Happy Reading!

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for Author:
The last in the Series by J.H. Croix and Ali Parker and the Series and this book was Amazing, action-packed, suspenseful, romantic and left you hanging on the edge of-of your seat. This is the Secon set in A Shameless Southern Nights Series and so worth the read. It tells the continues the story of brother Sonny whose a Cypress Creek Police Officer and Niki who is a Librarian. She wanted to know how he felt and right now since she has been gone, he felt downright miserable. Maybe it was better this way and she is safe from his families BS.
Niki realizes after a week that she does actually love Sonny and really miss him so she is going to bite the proverbial bullet and go see him to find out if they work.
You have to read this incredible book to find out if they work out. Does Sonny include her? Does he keep her safe while finding out if Dad is innocent? What in this small town is actually going to give?

[Shelly Celli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow...just...wow! Things have taken a major turn in the case, as well as in the lives of Sonny & Niki. They have so much going for them and they truly love one another, but the investigation keeps making twists and turns that is never expected. When Niki left Sonny, I knew their love would help them, but the fact that unexpected people end up in the middle of the case is keeping him on his toes and she’s just wanting to stay envolved with the case to support him and help when possible. The end of this book takes us on a new twist that leaves me hanging and begging to know what is going to happen next. I love this series, the mystery and romance keeps me on my toes and makes me forget everything else is going on around me. These are the types of books that are definitely worth being a series where you have to wait, impatiently I might add, to see what’s going to happen to this family next. I’m voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great ending to Sonny and Niki’s story. Ms. Croix is one of my favorite authors. Her writing draws you in, and makes you feel like you are living the story right along with Sonny and Niki.
The scene in the library was so hot, I thought the books would catch on fire! Or at least set my Kindle smoking! And then the courtroom scene! I did not see that coming and I was so shocked I had to stop reading to process it. That’s how real this story was.
I think it’s so interesting that the two authors are revealing more and more of the mystery of the Lovett’s father through each trilogy set. You really thought Sonny was going to find out everything, but there seems to be so much more to the father’s story and a lot more corruption than anyone thought. I hope that continues until the last brother finds his HEA.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the books in order!

After being kept in the dark, Niki decided she had had enough. Sonny is struggling with the information he is finding and loosing the woman he loves. Will Niki decide to give Sonny another chance? Will Sonny get the answers to some of his questions?

Loved seeing these two back together and working through everything. I loved how Sonny came clean and how he was determined to do what he could to find the truth. I loved how supportive Niki was and how she was able to help him work through clues. Great read and great series!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can you not love the Lovett men? This second set of trilogy books with Sonny Lovett are just as good as the first set with Jeremy. Sonny and Niki have been on a roller coaster of emotions from their relationship to his work to his father. Will things finally settle down for them in this book? I can tell you one thing and that is you will not be disappointed with this series. It's interesting, the characters are all developed well and the dynamic that they have together truly makes the story that much more creative. Enjoy

[Jacqueline Ellison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Slow and Steady series. Nikki and Sonny are still sizzling up the pages trying to figure out who is part of the behind the scenes organization. This was well written, have fantastic characters, and action. I could not put this book down and can't wait for the next book in the Shameless Southern Nights series. The Lovett boys and their ladies are a great escape to read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Pamela Lunder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic conclusion to this trilogy. I loved the way Sonny never gives up. He is determined to dig into his dad's case. He feels like he is innocent. Even when all the crap comes down on him, he doesn't give up. Niki is just the sweet Liberian who fell in love with Sonny. She has some very wise ideas. Her and Sonny make the best couple. I love the two of them together. Their love is so true and sweet. I can't wait for the next Lovett brothers story.

[Dana S. Chase · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the series, but was sorely disappointed it ended like it did. What happened to the big crime? You could have extended the series with the investigation and take down of the actual criminals. You missed an opportunity here. Disappointed and won't be buying your next book series.

I am fairly sure I covered my disappointment with the series in the post listed above. This author missed an opportunity to expand and finish this series in a wonderful satisfying manner.

[Nanc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Niki and Sonny’s story concludes. This was a very well written part 3 to this series. The characters had so much chemistry, it was delicious. Even though Niki and Sonny’s story is over, the series has not concluded. Looking forward to the next installment. I received an ARC and voluntarily left an honest review 4.5 stars

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the conclusion to Nicki and Sonny's story!!! This picks up where Nicki has left Sonny, and left both their hearts in shreds. As sonny gets closer to figuring out what is going on in his town he realizes he can't live with out Nicki. He just had to make her see that. This is still a fast paced, suspenseful and passionate story. It was sooo good, I couldn't put it down.

[Tuakana Toka · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well done!

Awesome collaboration between two amazingly talented authors. The conclusion to the series lacked a little punch but everything else was suspenseful and dangerously passionate.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speechless..... the third book in Sonny and Niki’s story was phenomenal and had me feeling emotional for the characters. Ali and J.H are a duo of authors who’s creativity can not be matched. While I was left happy with where Sonny and Niki left off in this second portion of the story , I am on the edge of my seat with where the third portion of this story will take the reader and who it will take his place

[Reva Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great series. Although I wouldn't say this book ended in a cliff hanger and Nikki and Sonny's story seems to have come to a satisfactory ending, there are still unanswered questions, mysteries left for Evan, the middle, garage-owning brother to solve in his book! I won't miss the next book from Croix, one of my favorite authors!

[Joan Davidson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three books

I do not like to have to buy 3 books to complete the story. You don't pay $2.99/3.99, you pay $10.00/12.00. I think this is deceptive

[Cheryl Graham-Petit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slow & Steady #3 is the final book this trilogy by J.H. Croix and Ali Parker. This small town romance story is filled with secrets, danger, loyalty, intrigue, mystery, suspense, lots of emotions, and love.

I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the two prior books in the Slow and Steady trilogy, emotional issues have affected how Sonny and Niki react to each other quite a few times. In the final story, there is a huge obstacle for them to overcome, and these two must come to a decision about what is most important to them or risk the possibility of having the future that they desire. I thought the many trials this couple had to live through were very realistic, and there were moments when I doubted their dreams would ever happen. SLOW AND STEADY #3 captivates with honestly depicted circumstances and compassionate characters.

Just when the relationship Sonny Lovett had with Niki Holmes seemed to be going in the right direction, his determination to uncover the complete truth about the questionable actions of his jailed father had them parting ways. She has been threatened more than once, and his job as a Cypress Creek cop could put him in danger at any point while working. He also often keeps some information to himself, thinking it is for her own good. Feeling like staying with Sonny is too big a gamble, Niki decides that giving him up is the right choice. But with how miserable her life becomes, she starts to wonder if taking a chance with her heart might be worth receiving countless other benefits.

J.H. Croix and Ali Parker know how to create intriguing situations filled with lots of heartfelt sentiments, and there is definitely an abundance of emotional situations in SLOW AND STEADY #3. Sonny is extremely protective of those for whom he cares, and he proves this fact in a number of ways concerning friends and family. I especially enjoyed his interaction with one particular brother, as their sincere comments to one another were compelling. How he responds to Niki shows what a thoughtful man he is at all times, even when he does not fully agree with her opinions. There is drama related to different incidents, where several matters are settled while others still need a resolution. Am certainly eager to read about the next Lovett brother, as this family is so interesting.

I voluntarily wrote a review after receiving a copy of the book via Booksprout – 4.5 Stars

[Carolyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this new triolgy series J.H. Croix and Ali Parker have going because the story gets so much more depth with three books at a time, as does the relationship of each of the book’s lead couples. In this one, we’ve seen the ups and downs of Sonny and Niki’s love story. He’s a cop whose passion for doing what’s right and fervent need to get to the bottom of what went South with his father gets him in dangerous waters, while she’s a librarian who prefers order and stability in her life and is hesitant to rock the boat with Sonny. Books 1 and 2 saw their relationship blossom then crash, then book 3 let us see what happens when they finally give in to the unexpected and magnetic connection between them, leading Sonny to give up some control and Niki to explore her wild side.

I really loved to see them as a couple before the end of the book, with all the insecurities and joy and learning curve that come with brand-new relationships. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse at the backstory of Roy Lovett and the city’s ugly underground that I felt spiced up the story other than the sizzle between Sonny and Niki :) One of my favourite parts of reading series is the connection each book (or here, trilogy) makes with the previous couples and getting to know the main characters of the next one. Marie and Jeremy from the first trilogy were integrated quite naturally in the story, and it was great to get a peek at the kind of man Evan is as he’s next in line! I thoroughly enjoyed all three books, including the twists and turns the overall story gets as we go forward. I was not disappointed as this book also takes a sharp turn and keeps me hooked for the next book in the series. The best way of knowing I’m into a book is when I feel bereft at the end of it, and that has happened with every single book with this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

These two unbelievably gifted authors are going to blow you away from the first page. This entire addictive series reaches its conclusion in this last installment. After reading all three books, I can honestly tell you I found the entire series to be creatively written with realistic like characters and small-town secrets that will rock your world. Find out what happens when it everything comes to light. I do not like to give away parts of a storyline and I never want to ruin any experience for another reader, however, I have been recommending this series since I read the very first book. You can never go wrong with either one of these authors but paired together in a collaboration... Well, let me ensure you, they are amazingly mind blowing. If you enjoy drama and intrigue, then absorb every book in this series. Follow Sonny and Niki as secrets are exposed and lives are altered. Whew! Absolutely Riveting.

I was beyond fortunate to have requested an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and I highly recommend this series of downright addictive goodness.

[Tianna McPherson (Anna Lee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have witnessed one brother's story, now we have been blessed with another ones. Sonny is the baby of the family and he proves to us that he is a man that we can absolutely love without a doubt. he wants more than anything to prove his father was wrongfully accused but knows that parts are right and just. Throughout all 3 books we se him push himself to the limit and almost lose the best thing that eve happened to him. Niki is this young woman who doesn't have a family anymore and finds herself slightly in trouble because she helped Sonny find answers.  She goes through everything and in the end falls in love with the cop. They show us that no matter what, we can find what makes us happy and never give up. Now we have read about two brothers, I can wait to read about the other three. Evan's story is going to be very interesting. The anti love brother will be funny yet absolutely we need to know about. I give it 5 stars. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.

[Diane W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slow and Steady # 3 by Ali Parker and J.H. Croix

Sonny Lovett is a police officer in Cypress Creek. Nikki is the local Librarian in Cypress Creek. Nikki returns to have a talk with Sonny about their lives and Sonny promises to tell her everything that is going on and not to keep her in the dark as before when she left him. Nikki has the resources to find specific information that Sonny requires for his own personal agenda regarding his father's conviction and detention at Cypress Creek Penitentiary. They make a great team as she find the information and gives the lead to Sonny as he follows through to give that information to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigator. An arrest is made against the Chief of Police and as result Sonny is given a promotion to detective. Sonny is convinced of his father's innocence but... all is not as it seems in Cypress Creek. I love this series of the four Lovett brothers and wait with baited breath for the next installment of great entertainment written by co-authors Ali Parker and J. H. Croix.

Diane W.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slow and Steady Book 3 picks up where we left Sonny and Niki. Both are unhappy that they are not together anymore. Sonny is still determined to prove his father's innocence. No one can be trusted, the corruption runs deep and it's impossible to know who to trust. Niki and Sonny are a great couple. Both sweet and full of passion for each other. They have some hurdles to get over but if they work together maybe they can come out of all this alive and happy.

This book is exciting. I love how these two authors are writing this series. There are 5 brothers and each sub series tells each brothers story and gets them to their HEA but in the story there are underline stories that carry on. Corruption, murder, deceit, fear and lots and lots of unanswered questions. Who is the mastermind behind all this and will it clear Sonny's father and get him released from prison?

I received an early copy to read and review and give my honest opinion. I loved it and highly recommend it. Can't wait for the next book.

[JJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are so many unanswered questions and no way to tell who to trust or if his coworkers will cover his back. This is Sonny's new life but it's about to change in many ways.

His top priorities are getting Niki back then getting to the bottom of the crime and corruption in his hometown. Thankfully he has the attention and support of Darren Hanson, the GBI agent assigned to the case...until suddenly, and without warning, he doesn't!

Sonny may not know who he can trust but he knows who he wants, who he needs, Niki, his beautiful, smart librarian. If he can get her back, then he will have a little balance and be able to continue his search into the underbelly of corruption that has infested his town.

Great fast-paced crime drama with some serious heat that has me begging for Book #4 - clearly, I need to exhale!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Team Croix/Parker earned their 5 stars with this one.

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the conclusion to this trilogy.

Sonny's relationship with Niki has been rocky since he started keeping things about his investigation into his father's crime. Niki has been threatened so many times that she decides to leave Sonny and try to stay out of the investigation altogether. However she ends up miserable from missing him and they come back to each other. When Sonny gets put on leave because of his off the books investigation it just makes him more determined to keep looking. However what he finds its what he expected. Will Sonny and Niki be able to stay together through everything that's going on?


This is a great ending for this trilogy. Once I started I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Niki and Sonny is off the charts hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this series to any book lover.


I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Teresa Christianson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Loved the ending of this story. Once Niki and Sonny both realize that they love each other they need to figure out how to get back together. Niki finally goes to talk to him and tells him what she wants. All Niki wanted was to be told the truth and be told what was going on and once figures that out they can work things out. They then work together and Sonny goes to GBI with the information needed to bring down the Chief. But they still don't have evidence of who else is involved and how much was used to set up his dad. Will they continue to dig deep or will they just leave it alone and focus solely on their relationship? How does his family feel about Niki? What happens with the Chief?
You go through a lot of emotions in this trilogy and there is a lot of suspense and intrigue.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I guess we can close the file on this particular case now. But it feels like for every answer that’s been found, we’re given even more puzzles in need of solving. One immediate threat has been handled but there’s still so much more to learn about the Lovett saga. I’m a little grumpy that while Sonny apologizes for not immediately telling Niki everything that was going on with the investigation, Niki is never held accountable for all the secrets she never told him. It was my biggest issue with the way the previous book ended, and I don’t like that Sonny got stuck with all the blame for Niki’s breakup. I loved the way this pair pulled together once they worked through their issues. They make a fantastic team and I can’t wait to see how they contribute to Evan’s upcoming story.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.