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Tarnished Heroes #2
Assassin Games
Anderson Gratney does odd jobs that usually involve a gun and covert ops for the CIA. His latest assignment? Kidnap a CIA analyst in order to keep her safe. Easy. Except there’s nothing simple about the beautiful, careful Carol Sark, who tempts him the more he learns about her.
Coming face to face with a masked man in her home is the most terrifying experience of Carol’s life—until he kidnaps her. He claims he’s there to keep her safe, but she doesn’t know who to trust. And until they can figure out who the threat is, she's forced to take him at his word.
Time is ticking, and even though she drives him nuts, Anderson very much wants to keep her alive. Unfortunately, the assassins have other ideas…
Each book in the Tarnished Heroes series is
*Spy Games
*Assassin Games
- GenresRomantic SuspenseRomance
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2018
41 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Sidney Bristol
122 books957 followersIt can never be said that NYT & USA Today Bestselling author Sidney Bristol has had a ‘normal’ life. She is a recovering roller derby queen, former missionary, and tattoo addict. She grew up in a motor-home on the US highways (with an occasional jaunt into Canada and Mexico), traveling the rodeo circuit with her parents. Sidney has lived abroad in both Russia and Thailand, working with children and teenagers. She now lives in Texas where she splits her time between a job she loves, writing, reading and fostering cats.
Sidney is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency.
Sidney is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 26, 2018
Roller coaster romantic suspense…
This was a James Bond-esque, roller coaster ride of a romantic suspense!
Carol was an intelligent and smart CIA analyst. Her job was everything to her and when it was threatened, she fought tooth and nail for it. Just because she was CIA though didn’t mean she had the field skills to keep herself, and her work, safe. Carol was the key to a puzzle that someone didn’t want her to solve and murder was just another day at the office… Unless she got some help.
Enter uber-capable Anderson. Handpicked, Anderson wasn’t sent to protect Carol but luckily he was as smart and intuitive as he was seasoned. A rocky start (ha!) didn’t stop the attraction, however, and little did either of them know that their enemies were not the biggest threat to their well-being…
The action was non-stop in this romance where survival was the focus. The bad guys were many and lurking in the darkness that Carol and Andereson raced to keep ahead of. They handled every threat with ingenuity and the real desire to stay alive keeping them going. They bounced from one dangerous situation to another yet found time to explore the desire and love percolating between them.
While I didn’t feel the romance as much as I wanted to, the characters were interesting and the plot even more so. Their story certainly had me dreaming of a lot more exciting things than Friday night at Costco. ~Diane, 4 stars
This was a James Bond-esque, roller coaster ride of a romantic suspense!
Carol was an intelligent and smart CIA analyst. Her job was everything to her and when it was threatened, she fought tooth and nail for it. Just because she was CIA though didn’t mean she had the field skills to keep herself, and her work, safe. Carol was the key to a puzzle that someone didn’t want her to solve and murder was just another day at the office… Unless she got some help.
Enter uber-capable Anderson. Handpicked, Anderson wasn’t sent to protect Carol but luckily he was as smart and intuitive as he was seasoned. A rocky start (ha!) didn’t stop the attraction, however, and little did either of them know that their enemies were not the biggest threat to their well-being…
The action was non-stop in this romance where survival was the focus. The bad guys were many and lurking in the darkness that Carol and Andereson raced to keep ahead of. They handled every threat with ingenuity and the real desire to stay alive keeping them going. They bounced from one dangerous situation to another yet found time to explore the desire and love percolating between them.
While I didn’t feel the romance as much as I wanted to, the characters were interesting and the plot even more so. Their story certainly had me dreaming of a lot more exciting things than Friday night at Costco. ~Diane, 4 stars
July 24, 2018
Wow, it's an amazing action-packed novel that kept me on my toes from the very beginning. I loved both Andy and Carol, and the romantic chemistry between them was perfect.
Carol's life is in danger. She isn't a field agent and she has no way of defending herself. But the good news is that the very person who is supposed to kill her, is going to save her. She just hopes this doesn't turn her carefully crafted life upside down.
Andy isn't supposed to get involved with Carol. He only needs to save her life and uncover the conspiracy that has them all worried. However, staying emotionally detached is turning out to be a very difficult feat, he may not succeed at it.
If you are looking for suspense, romance, conspiracies, and action then this book is just what you need. I'd definitely recommend it!
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley.
Carol's life is in danger. She isn't a field agent and she has no way of defending herself. But the good news is that the very person who is supposed to kill her, is going to save her. She just hopes this doesn't turn her carefully crafted life upside down.
Andy isn't supposed to get involved with Carol. He only needs to save her life and uncover the conspiracy that has them all worried. However, staying emotionally detached is turning out to be a very difficult feat, he may not succeed at it.
If you are looking for suspense, romance, conspiracies, and action then this book is just what you need. I'd definitely recommend it!
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley.
July 30, 2018
Anderson (Andy) is used to being asked to take odd jobs, it's what he does after all, but kidnapping a CIA analyst for her safety, and the attraction they share, is far from simple. The more he learns about her, the deeper he falls.
Carol is terrified when a masked man enters her home, even more so when he kidnaps her. But he claims he's only doing so for her protection. Unable to know if she can trust him, but without any alternative, she goes along. Hoping she isn't making the biggest mistake of her life.
There's definitely a mole in the CIA, they just don't know who yet. Thankfully, Carol's analysis can change that. Unfortunately for her though, it also puts her in the crosshairs of those who want to silence her forever and remain hidden.
Now Andy and Carol must work together to ensure her safety and that of her findings to uncover who is behind everything. But every minute they're together only strengthens the bond growing between them.
Can Andy protect Carol? Will they discover the mole's identity before it's too late? What happens to what's happening between them? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people are thrown together by dangerous circumstances and find a love that can conquer any and all obstacles.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Carol is terrified when a masked man enters her home, even more so when he kidnaps her. But he claims he's only doing so for her protection. Unable to know if she can trust him, but without any alternative, she goes along. Hoping she isn't making the biggest mistake of her life.
There's definitely a mole in the CIA, they just don't know who yet. Thankfully, Carol's analysis can change that. Unfortunately for her though, it also puts her in the crosshairs of those who want to silence her forever and remain hidden.
Now Andy and Carol must work together to ensure her safety and that of her findings to uncover who is behind everything. But every minute they're together only strengthens the bond growing between them.
Can Andy protect Carol? Will they discover the mole's identity before it's too late? What happens to what's happening between them? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people are thrown together by dangerous circumstances and find a love that can conquer any and all obstacles.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
July 14, 2018
Looking for that suspense white knuckle read with a splash of romance? Look no further. This one has it in spades. Sidney really outdid herself in this book and the twists and turns made my jaw drop more than once. Andy is a contract worker for the CIA who is watching Carol who is an analyst working on a code to pull out information on a string of deaths. The agency knows they have a mole and a band of infiltrates, they just don't know who and how it's all connected. Carol's analysis can help tie things together. When it's apparent that those on the dark side of things know Carol is getting to close Andy is the one sent in to get close to Carol so when the time comes and she disappears for her own safety and hopefully her life intact it won't come as such a surprise. Carol is different. I really liked Carol's character, when the rubber hit the road she was right there with Andy and she's no pushover. Andy is a decent guy, a bit rough around the edges but he's good at what he does. Being vague about the plot line on purpose because any more than that would spoil the crazy ride that is this book. Well written, perfect flow and great characters make this a stellar read.
advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
July 24, 2018
Assassin Games by Sidney Bristol is an exciting Crime Thriller. #2 in "Tarnished Heroes", see "Spy Game", but can be read as a stand alone.
This is the story of Anderson Gratney and Carol Sark both work with the CIA in different roles. There is a mole, a traitor, a murderer, danger, an assassin with plenty of twists and turns and edge of your seat action. Action paced, fast paced with engaging and realistic characters and an intriguing and captivating storyline. The storyline flows seamlessly and effortlessly. It is also unpredictable and compelling. A fantastic Crime Thriller with a few surprises. A must read. While, this is my first time reading Sidney Brisyol I intend to pick up "Spy Game" and continue to follow her stories. "I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: mild
Reviewer: AprilR
This is the story of Anderson Gratney and Carol Sark both work with the CIA in different roles. There is a mole, a traitor, a murderer, danger, an assassin with plenty of twists and turns and edge of your seat action. Action paced, fast paced with engaging and realistic characters and an intriguing and captivating storyline. The storyline flows seamlessly and effortlessly. It is also unpredictable and compelling. A fantastic Crime Thriller with a few surprises. A must read. While, this is my first time reading Sidney Brisyol I intend to pick up "Spy Game" and continue to follow her stories. "I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: mild
Reviewer: AprilR
June 23, 2018
Andy needs to work on his wooing skills, “you need to relax. Given that we don’t have medication on hand, that leaves liquor or sex.”He leaned a bit closer, whispering. “You’d just have to unbutton your pants.” Andy loves to surprise his lady, "Andy turned, his smile as easy and relaxed as it’d ever been. “I couldn’t wait,” he said and her insides melted. “Besides, the captain had to get back sooner.” I liked this book, I liked Andy.
August 1, 2018
Warning, though I try my best to avoid this, all reviews can contain spoilers of some kind. If you would like to know just my overall opinion of the book, and otherwise go into reading it blind, please scroll down to my overall and would I recommend it section.
I Voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Take this gun? Why would you give me a gun? I don’t know how to use a gun! Oh no, what was that? Dive under the couch, dive under the couch now! Oh wait, it’s a book, I’m not actually being pursued by hired assassins, but dang what a suspenseful ride. Honestly, make sure you are not reading this one next to your man because you might just jump and grab him in a Kung fu book death grip.
Our story starts with our hero Andy in the middle of a meeting call with his handler and fellow agents, discussing their current project and how best to keep the most important chess piece, Carol, safe until this new pawn on the board completes her task. Andy is one hell top shot player in his game; when he takes a case emotions get shut down and things get done. Unfortunately for Andy this chess piece is in no way a pawn in his eyes, but rather a queen.
Carol is a sweet girl who takes a desk job with the CIA gathering information and working on the things that won’t put her right in the action. This job is everything she has ever wanted, but when Carol stumbles across something she wasn’t supposed to, she get pulled into a task that buries her in work not to mention danger. Top it all off with getting kidnapped by some beautiful jerk with a tendency to scare the daylights out of her and that dream job suddenly turns into a walking night terror. Will she be able to finish her project before some other assassin catches up, and if so what the hack does she do then?
Yeah... this wasn’t an on the edge of the couch book at all; more like a hit the floor while reading one. I must say the amount of research that want into this one was amazing. How the project Carol is working on works, and the many different complex ways the government works is really well done in this book and is what makes the suspense so dang good. Andy’s character is spot on with this part of the story. His confident yet realistic nature mixes so well with that cold as ice agent persona, well ok, so cold as melting ice after he meets Carol. I will say that this side of him can be scary at times though.
Now while I adore my husband and he is the only man for me, I do so enjoy a book where I can just fit right into the heroine’s shoes and live her life for a short time. Carol’s character, despite being super smart and having a confusing job, is actually so relatable it made those shoes a comfortable fit. Carol is petrified about her current situation with not only Andy kidnapping her, but also the assassins gunning to, well, gun her down. She has moments of panic but she pushes through it and does everything in her power to help Andy save her life. I found this to not only make her relatable during her freak out moments but also really admirable. She’s a strong woman without being super strong or amazing combat skills. Go go girl power!
While all this action packed spy assassin type adventure is very well done and gripping, it really felt as though the romance part of this romance novel was lost in in this action suspense. I know that most romance books in this sub-genre are not hearts and candy type romances. However, there is usually a lot of relationship build up and interactions between the two characters that go above and beyond work while the action is going on. Apart from denying that they can be together despite their attraction, there is no real start to their relationship until more than half way through. For me, this really threw me out of the book and not because it wasn’t written well but because I was expecting a lot more focus on the relationship between the two characters than what was given.
Now, lets crawl back up onto the couch and light some scented candles while we sip on wine and focus on the hotter side of this book. During the moments that we get to see their relationship flash to life, Andy is just heart stoping.
Yup, getting kidnapped by a hot assassin spy has it’s ups and downs but it is worth the ride. Honestly, the whole if I can’t save you I’ll kill you mindset that Andy has towards Carol is very alluring. It’s the perfect fit for the characters in this book and the way they think. Despite the lack of romance, the characters are very well done.
Overall:
This is a very engaging suspenseful book that follows the tangled life of people who work for the CIA and the many dangerous roads that job can lead them down. The characters in the book are very well done and give an amazingly spot on action packed read. The only problem is that this book does not focus on the relationship between Andy and Carol until over half way through, making it feel more like a action packed thriller with a slow burn romance mixed in rather than a romance based in an assassin’s world.
Otherwise, this book is well written and really does push you to the end of your seat and beyond with suspense. Once you get to the hotter scenes in this book you may want to make sure you have a glass of water handy as well.
Would I Recommend It:
Yes but only if you really are into action packed thrillers. If you’re looking for a romance book that is based in the world of an assassin then I would hesitate to tel you to run out and get this book. Please don’t take that to mean the book is not good by any means, it just simply is not for every romance reader.
I Voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Take this gun? Why would you give me a gun? I don’t know how to use a gun! Oh no, what was that? Dive under the couch, dive under the couch now! Oh wait, it’s a book, I’m not actually being pursued by hired assassins, but dang what a suspenseful ride. Honestly, make sure you are not reading this one next to your man because you might just jump and grab him in a Kung fu book death grip.
Our story starts with our hero Andy in the middle of a meeting call with his handler and fellow agents, discussing their current project and how best to keep the most important chess piece, Carol, safe until this new pawn on the board completes her task. Andy is one hell top shot player in his game; when he takes a case emotions get shut down and things get done. Unfortunately for Andy this chess piece is in no way a pawn in his eyes, but rather a queen.
Carol is a sweet girl who takes a desk job with the CIA gathering information and working on the things that won’t put her right in the action. This job is everything she has ever wanted, but when Carol stumbles across something she wasn’t supposed to, she get pulled into a task that buries her in work not to mention danger. Top it all off with getting kidnapped by some beautiful jerk with a tendency to scare the daylights out of her and that dream job suddenly turns into a walking night terror. Will she be able to finish her project before some other assassin catches up, and if so what the hack does she do then?
Yeah... this wasn’t an on the edge of the couch book at all; more like a hit the floor while reading one. I must say the amount of research that want into this one was amazing. How the project Carol is working on works, and the many different complex ways the government works is really well done in this book and is what makes the suspense so dang good. Andy’s character is spot on with this part of the story. His confident yet realistic nature mixes so well with that cold as ice agent persona, well ok, so cold as melting ice after he meets Carol. I will say that this side of him can be scary at times though.
Now while I adore my husband and he is the only man for me, I do so enjoy a book where I can just fit right into the heroine’s shoes and live her life for a short time. Carol’s character, despite being super smart and having a confusing job, is actually so relatable it made those shoes a comfortable fit. Carol is petrified about her current situation with not only Andy kidnapping her, but also the assassins gunning to, well, gun her down. She has moments of panic but she pushes through it and does everything in her power to help Andy save her life. I found this to not only make her relatable during her freak out moments but also really admirable. She’s a strong woman without being super strong or amazing combat skills. Go go girl power!
While all this action packed spy assassin type adventure is very well done and gripping, it really felt as though the romance part of this romance novel was lost in in this action suspense. I know that most romance books in this sub-genre are not hearts and candy type romances. However, there is usually a lot of relationship build up and interactions between the two characters that go above and beyond work while the action is going on. Apart from denying that they can be together despite their attraction, there is no real start to their relationship until more than half way through. For me, this really threw me out of the book and not because it wasn’t written well but because I was expecting a lot more focus on the relationship between the two characters than what was given.
Now, lets crawl back up onto the couch and light some scented candles while we sip on wine and focus on the hotter side of this book. During the moments that we get to see their relationship flash to life, Andy is just heart stoping.
Yup, getting kidnapped by a hot assassin spy has it’s ups and downs but it is worth the ride. Honestly, the whole if I can’t save you I’ll kill you mindset that Andy has towards Carol is very alluring. It’s the perfect fit for the characters in this book and the way they think. Despite the lack of romance, the characters are very well done.
Overall:
This is a very engaging suspenseful book that follows the tangled life of people who work for the CIA and the many dangerous roads that job can lead them down. The characters in the book are very well done and give an amazingly spot on action packed read. The only problem is that this book does not focus on the relationship between Andy and Carol until over half way through, making it feel more like a action packed thriller with a slow burn romance mixed in rather than a romance based in an assassin’s world.
Otherwise, this book is well written and really does push you to the end of your seat and beyond with suspense. Once you get to the hotter scenes in this book you may want to make sure you have a glass of water handy as well.
Would I Recommend It:
Yes but only if you really are into action packed thrillers. If you’re looking for a romance book that is based in the world of an assassin then I would hesitate to tel you to run out and get this book. Please don’t take that to mean the book is not good by any means, it just simply is not for every romance reader.
July 25, 2018
Carol Sark never imagined finding herself on the run from the CIA, but when Anderson Gratney kidnaps her that's exactly what happens. Forced to work together for the greater good, Carol finds herself doing the one thing she shouldn't -- falling for a man all wrong for her. Yet, when things being to get more and more dangerous, Carol becomes determined to do anything to come out on top, even if it means putting her life on the line. Will Anderson be able to keep Carol safe, so they have a shot at happy ever after or will going separate ways be the best thing possible?
What an absolutely riveting, fast-paced, action-packed read Ms. Bristol has delivered in this second book of her Tarnished Heroes series where the main characters were incredible and had me loving the journey they take to happy ever after; and the dialogue was compelling and kept me on the edge-of-my-seat due to the suspense and action-packed moments these two deal with, as they go on the run to find answers. Will Carol and Anderson be able to discover what is going on inside the CIA and take whoever is responsible for what is going on?
With the dialogue, it was well-written and intense due to the main characters back stories and the obstacles these two face on their journey to happy ever after. Will Anderson and Carol be able to stay a step ahead of the bad guys? Moreover, the heroine is resilient, courageous and I loved her determination and willingness to do whatever it takes to get to the bottom of what's going on with the CIA and who is determined to see her dead. I also liked how the heroine challenged the hero because it's palpable Anderson needs to open up about his past if he's to have any chance of healing and overcoming it to have a future with someone. Will Anderson's past be a bone-of-contention between them?While the hero, he's confident in his skills; a good guy, despite what he does to Carol in the beginning; and I liked how determined he was to keep Carol safe.
Overall, Ms. Bristol has delivered another fantastic read for this series where the chemistry between this couple was intense; the romance nicely-detailed and hot and had cheering for this couple's happy ever after; and the ending had me worried for the main characters because of what they're facing, but had me loving the way things work out for this couple. Really, Anderson and Carol are so good together, especially since she challenges him to want to be a better man. However, it was the epilogue that has me looking forward to more of this series because it sets up a very interesting and exciting direction for the series tot take. Will things ever get back to the way they were? I would recommend Assassin Games by Sidney Bristol, if yon enjoy romantic suspense or books by authors Tee O'Fallon, Tony Burrows, Jenna Ryan and Anita Devito.
July 7, 2018
What an action-packed book! I don't typically read romances that involve so much edge-of-your-seat scenes, where you're wondering who's going to get shot next. That's definitely what I got in this book! While the romance took a bit of a back seat for me, with all the action going on around the characters, I still enjoyed reading both pieces - the romance and the crime thriller. Sidney Bristol brought a lot of intriguing aspects to the plot, like CIA conspiracies and hit men, that livened it up and made for a really unique read.
Anderson Gratney kills on command...usually. Hired out as a private contractor for the CIA, he takes care of bad people who need to be taken out. But he only takes out the targets he believes deserves death, and Carol Sark is not one of them. Carol has been helping Andy's small group of coworkers figure out who has been selling their secrets and causing people to die, but she has been discovered and now has a price on her head. Pretending to take on the task of her murder, Andy kidnaps Carol and takes her to a remote location in Switzerland until the real suspects can be found. But he doesn't anticipate developing an intimate relationship with Carol, and when their close quarters makes it impossible to resist, Andy now needs to decide between his current life and what a life with Carol could look like.
The two characters had a lot of depth to them, which made them very realistic but also very hard to read for me as a reader. Neither characters was particularly likable from the start, but as time went on, I began to bond with Andy and Carol. Andy is a dark character, as he kills people for a living, and it's hard to get romantic when there is literally blood on his hands at several points in this book. But his relationship with Carol shows another side to him that you wish would come out a bit more - his love for Carol gives him a human aspect that he is usually careful to keep under wraps. Their romance is slow in developing but has layers to it that romance books may often gloss over to avoid conflict. Instead we see it all as readers, and that's definitely something to cheer about.
If you like crime thrillers and government conspiracy stories, you'll definitely like this book! With a side of romance and a dash of mystery, you'll love where the story takes you.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Anderson Gratney kills on command...usually. Hired out as a private contractor for the CIA, he takes care of bad people who need to be taken out. But he only takes out the targets he believes deserves death, and Carol Sark is not one of them. Carol has been helping Andy's small group of coworkers figure out who has been selling their secrets and causing people to die, but she has been discovered and now has a price on her head. Pretending to take on the task of her murder, Andy kidnaps Carol and takes her to a remote location in Switzerland until the real suspects can be found. But he doesn't anticipate developing an intimate relationship with Carol, and when their close quarters makes it impossible to resist, Andy now needs to decide between his current life and what a life with Carol could look like.
The two characters had a lot of depth to them, which made them very realistic but also very hard to read for me as a reader. Neither characters was particularly likable from the start, but as time went on, I began to bond with Andy and Carol. Andy is a dark character, as he kills people for a living, and it's hard to get romantic when there is literally blood on his hands at several points in this book. But his relationship with Carol shows another side to him that you wish would come out a bit more - his love for Carol gives him a human aspect that he is usually careful to keep under wraps. Their romance is slow in developing but has layers to it that romance books may often gloss over to avoid conflict. Instead we see it all as readers, and that's definitely something to cheer about.
If you like crime thrillers and government conspiracy stories, you'll definitely like this book! With a side of romance and a dash of mystery, you'll love where the story takes you.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
August 3, 2018
Sidney Bristol is one of my go-to authors when I want thrills and suspense. She hits the mark with Assassin Games, spy thriller with a slow burn romance. I love a slow burning relationship, it makes it ever-so-much-sweeter when they finally get together (I'm singing "Anticipation" as I'm writing this).
Carol works for the CIA and is quite content NOT being a field agent. She is beset by self-doubt and paranoia; the first because she is wondering if confiding her concerns about suspicious activity may have caused loss of life, and the second because it feels like people are watching her. Turns out that she actually is being watched by Andy and others, who will do whatever it takes to keep her safe and maintain national security. Except for the assassins...they are watching so they can kill her.
There is much to love about Assassin Games. Carol is smart and capable (two of my favorite characteristics in a lead character), and she is courageous without being foolhardy. Andy is a strong military man (of course) with an equally strong moral code. He isn't supposed to be involved (of course) with a woman he's protecting, but the chemistry between Carol and Andy is so hot that it's inevitable that the relationship blooms. There is tons of action, but it is action with a purpose. Sometimes I read romantic suspense and there seems to be gunplay and explosions merely for the purpose of adding action to a scene instead of it building the plot. That is far from the case here; the plot grows and the reader will try to fly through the book so as to see what will happen next.
This story sets up a continuation that is going to be amazing. From this point forward, I imagine that one will need to read the books in order. The plot thickens, my friends, and we will be in for an amazing ride.
Carol works for the CIA and is quite content NOT being a field agent. She is beset by self-doubt and paranoia; the first because she is wondering if confiding her concerns about suspicious activity may have caused loss of life, and the second because it feels like people are watching her. Turns out that she actually is being watched by Andy and others, who will do whatever it takes to keep her safe and maintain national security. Except for the assassins...they are watching so they can kill her.
There is much to love about Assassin Games. Carol is smart and capable (two of my favorite characteristics in a lead character), and she is courageous without being foolhardy. Andy is a strong military man (of course) with an equally strong moral code. He isn't supposed to be involved (of course) with a woman he's protecting, but the chemistry between Carol and Andy is so hot that it's inevitable that the relationship blooms. There is tons of action, but it is action with a purpose. Sometimes I read romantic suspense and there seems to be gunplay and explosions merely for the purpose of adding action to a scene instead of it building the plot. That is far from the case here; the plot grows and the reader will try to fly through the book so as to see what will happen next.
This story sets up a continuation that is going to be amazing. From this point forward, I imagine that one will need to read the books in order. The plot thickens, my friends, and we will be in for an amazing ride.
July 24, 2018
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher from NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
This book follows on the heels of Spy Games. Rand and Sarah are now in hiding, but the moles have still to be uncovered. There is a secret organization within the CIA, that is putting agents at risk to sell secrets. Carol Stark, daughter of a CIA agent who was murdered when she was younger, is an analyst with the CIA, taking a desk job, so she wouldn't worry her mother. She has developed an algorithm to search out other failed missions, to help ferret out who the leakers are. Now she is in danger and Anderson (Andy) Gratney, a CIA contractor is assigned to protect her. He was a SEAL, a sniper, very good at his job, until he came to the realization, that he was being used to further corporations' interests rather than keep America safe. For that he was court-martialed and put in prison. He is going to keep Carol safe, no matter what.
The author skillfully creates captivating characters in an puzzling scenario. Lots of action and intrigue and with the current revelations of chicanery in the upper echelons of both the CIA and FBI, totally believable.
This book follows on the heels of Spy Games. Rand and Sarah are now in hiding, but the moles have still to be uncovered. There is a secret organization within the CIA, that is putting agents at risk to sell secrets. Carol Stark, daughter of a CIA agent who was murdered when she was younger, is an analyst with the CIA, taking a desk job, so she wouldn't worry her mother. She has developed an algorithm to search out other failed missions, to help ferret out who the leakers are. Now she is in danger and Anderson (Andy) Gratney, a CIA contractor is assigned to protect her. He was a SEAL, a sniper, very good at his job, until he came to the realization, that he was being used to further corporations' interests rather than keep America safe. For that he was court-martialed and put in prison. He is going to keep Carol safe, no matter what.
The author skillfully creates captivating characters in an puzzling scenario. Lots of action and intrigue and with the current revelations of chicanery in the upper echelons of both the CIA and FBI, totally believable.
July 26, 2018
This is the first book that I've read by Sidney Bristol, and I can't think of a better story to help me fall in love with her talented writing style, as I LOVED Assassin Games so much! I'm not going to going into too much detail when it comes to the plot because this story was suspense at it's finest, and I don't want to accidentally give anything important away. I will reveal that Andy secretly contracts for the CIA, while Carol is a smart CIA analyst who isn't a field agent. They meet when Andy has to kidnap & keep her safe as their seems to be a mole, and that's when the action packed journey takes off. This story kept me on the edge of my seat cover to cover with heart racing, as romance wasn't the first order of the day. However, when a hero/heroine is in such close quarters with danger dogging their steps, yeah, some sexy times ensue, as emotions are high. Obviously, the twists are around every corner, so I could only drop f-bombs when each new conspiracy showed itself. So yeah, this story was on hell of an action packed ride that was fast paced to the point that I had a hard time catching my breath. So I'll end with declaring that I'm a new fan girl of Ms. Bristol, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
July 26, 2018
A head-spinning, can't put down read
A new-to-me author who has been on my TBR list for a while now, I was eager to read this new story. The second book in the Tarnished Heroes series, though technically you could read this as a standalone, I felt a little lost in the beginning. A lot of what happens here is set up by events in the first book, so I'd recommend reading the series in order. Once into it though, this story sucks you in and doesn't let you go.
I love intelligent heroines, and I identified strongly with Carol, being a bit of an analyst/computer nerd myself (though in the much lower risk business world, lol) so this story really had me on the edge of my seat. Andy had me too, I loved his backstory--well, okay, maybe loved is the wrong word. Let's just say I'm a sucker for brooding, troubled military types.
Lots of great secondary characters as well, both to love and love-to-hate, and the plot was a twisty rollercoaster ride that had my head spinning and my heart in my throat. If you're looking for a can't-put down read, this is it. 4.5 to 5 stars that I'm sure would have been a full 5 star for me if I'd read book one first.
B2B Kelly
A new-to-me author who has been on my TBR list for a while now, I was eager to read this new story. The second book in the Tarnished Heroes series, though technically you could read this as a standalone, I felt a little lost in the beginning. A lot of what happens here is set up by events in the first book, so I'd recommend reading the series in order. Once into it though, this story sucks you in and doesn't let you go.
I love intelligent heroines, and I identified strongly with Carol, being a bit of an analyst/computer nerd myself (though in the much lower risk business world, lol) so this story really had me on the edge of my seat. Andy had me too, I loved his backstory--well, okay, maybe loved is the wrong word. Let's just say I'm a sucker for brooding, troubled military types.
Lots of great secondary characters as well, both to love and love-to-hate, and the plot was a twisty rollercoaster ride that had my head spinning and my heart in my throat. If you're looking for a can't-put down read, this is it. 4.5 to 5 stars that I'm sure would have been a full 5 star for me if I'd read book one first.
B2B Kelly
July 1, 2018
This book has a lot going on it – many names, many scenarios, who is really the villain. You really have to pay attention to everything to understand what happened and you usually do not figure out what will happen next. That is what I want in romantic suspense – suspense. There are surprises – no giving it away here though. I know there is a first book in this series and I think maybe some of the characters and villains might have been in that book but this book reads well as a standalone (I do have the first book on my wishlist now). Andy and Carol are great characters, especially Carol who is not a wilting flower but a full blown thorn on the stem rose. Oh, and Andy, I want him to protect me – he is an all around nice guy even if he does not think so. I love their “kind of” slow burn romance – does she think he is a good guy or a villain? The story moves at a fast pace so do not blink. It also ends with us not knowing the true villain. Next book? Irene and Mitch?
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
July 10, 2018
Assassin Games comes across as part of a series of book with the mention of many different characters and past stories that I felt like should know.
Start to finish this book will take readers on a wild ride filled with deep rooted government conspiracy that will keep readers wanting more.
The relationship between Anderson Gratney (Andy) and Carol Sark quick romance with the HEA but the adventure, action and gun battles keeps readers falling in love with Carol over and over again.
Character development is fast paced as the story but the author Sidney Bristol is able to create 3-D characters that come to life popping off the pages until the story ends with a question.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Entangled Publishing, LLC (Amara) for the advance copy of Sidney Bristol Assassin Games
Start to finish this book will take readers on a wild ride filled with deep rooted government conspiracy that will keep readers wanting more.
The relationship between Anderson Gratney (Andy) and Carol Sark quick romance with the HEA but the adventure, action and gun battles keeps readers falling in love with Carol over and over again.
Character development is fast paced as the story but the author Sidney Bristol is able to create 3-D characters that come to life popping off the pages until the story ends with a question.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Entangled Publishing, LLC (Amara) for the advance copy of Sidney Bristol Assassin Games
July 18, 2018
Assassin Games was an enjoyable read. That had a nice sprinkling of romance and a storyline that had plenty of intrigue, pockets of action and a couple of twists.
Yet, I did struggle to get into it, and I found the first half particularly slow going. But the pace certainly picked up as the story progressed and it was an engaging read, but honestly, I was expecting more.
Still, I never once felt lost or confused by having not read the first book in this series, and I would certainly read the next one. And I'd happily recommend this story to others. Especially if you like a good spy story, with a touch of romance thrown in.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review**
Yet, I did struggle to get into it, and I found the first half particularly slow going. But the pace certainly picked up as the story progressed and it was an engaging read, but honestly, I was expecting more.
Still, I never once felt lost or confused by having not read the first book in this series, and I would certainly read the next one. And I'd happily recommend this story to others. Especially if you like a good spy story, with a touch of romance thrown in.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review**
July 25, 2018
Having finally gotten to crack one open from this author I quickly ventured in. The characters are Anderson and Carol who carry you through this high speed adventure. Being a covert is one that I like to read to see just how much they give me a rush. This one starts out a bit different with you quickly sitting back as these two give you the banter that keeps you entertained. It will also be fun as you go seeing where they do take you but it also has its share of rushes. The drama does come with you pulled to the edge at times. The heat will blast it through with this one giving all its got.
November 11, 2018
This was another action-packed read from Sidney and it had me hooked and kept me reading late into the night. I really liked the chemistry between Andy and Carol they were great together they were also good likable characters, his job is to kidnap her and keep her safe and she is terrified when he breaks in and takes her claiming it is for her safety now they have to work together to keep her alive and the longer they are together the more the attraction grows.
July 23, 2018
Damn! That was fantastic. Nail biting doesn’t begin to describe how good it is. I am on edge waiting to read the next in the series and I just finished this one. I think I found a new favorite thriller author to add to my list. Sidney you rock girl! It is even better with spies who fall in love, how decadent!
July 26, 2018
I love romantic suspense books and this one was fast paced,great characters and a really interesting storyline.I loved Anderson and Carols characters,both strong yet entertaining dialogue made the a really enjoyable book.I read this book as an arc and this is my honest opinion.Will definitely look for more by this author.
August 6, 2018
Wow, this book was a movie in my head! I saw Mission Impossible this weekend, and I felt about this book much like the movie. After finishing it I am worn out. There is so much action, so much intensity that I read this book almost in one sitting. I could NOT stop reading. A great plot, a fun romance, and one heck of a roller coaster ride!
June 27, 2018
It started a tad slow but then 💥🔥BAM🔥💥 the action suspense mystery and wondering came out of no where it was like OMG WTF WOW WHAT?!? over and over again i abso-freakin-lutley loved it
I recieved this arc for my honest review.
I recieved this arc for my honest review.
February 14, 2020
Anderson is a contract killer for the CIA and he's good at his job. But he won't kill on command unless the person is guilty. His latest assignment is Carol, a CIA analyst. He's going to protect her even though it may be his last assignment. Exciting, nail-biting spy thriller and romance.
February 13, 2021
He first flirts with her to get closer to her before kidnapping her
March 9, 2022
Yikes lots of Suspense
July 31, 2018
Andy is a decent guy, a bit rough around the edges but he’s good at what he does. A loner, but knows right from wrong.
Andy works at the moment for the CIA (a contract worker) he is watching Carol an analyst working on a code to pull out information on a string of deaths.
Carol’s character, when the when it got tough, she wasn’t a pushover, she was clever and definitely an asset.
The agency know they have a mole, they just don’t know who and how it’s connected. Her analysis can help tie things together.
And when the assassins figure out that Carol is getting to close, Andy is the one sent in to get close to Carol. And if she needs to disappear, then he’s there to help her.
Being kidnapped isn’t high on Carol’s list of things to do. And when the kidnapper explains that he’s here to help keep her safe, Carol isn’t sure who to trust.
The plot was interesting, a few twists and turns kept me reading until I was done.
The characters are well written, and the scenes followed each other really well.
I haven’t read any other the other books in the series, but I think I’ll have to go back and take a look 😉
🦋
Andy works at the moment for the CIA (a contract worker) he is watching Carol an analyst working on a code to pull out information on a string of deaths.
Carol’s character, when the when it got tough, she wasn’t a pushover, she was clever and definitely an asset.
The agency know they have a mole, they just don’t know who and how it’s connected. Her analysis can help tie things together.
And when the assassins figure out that Carol is getting to close, Andy is the one sent in to get close to Carol. And if she needs to disappear, then he’s there to help her.
Being kidnapped isn’t high on Carol’s list of things to do. And when the kidnapper explains that he’s here to help keep her safe, Carol isn’t sure who to trust.
The plot was interesting, a few twists and turns kept me reading until I was done.
The characters are well written, and the scenes followed each other really well.
I haven’t read any other the other books in the series, but I think I’ll have to go back and take a look 😉
🦋
December 7, 2018
DNF - this is part of a series and so has a large cast of characters that the author assumes you already know and care about once the book starts. I hadn’t read the first one so I did not. On top of that the scenario was just silly. These are people in a super secret spook-like organization and it seems the set up is that they’ll each get their own book and end up with someone they are responsible for protecting that will also conveniently end up their lovers as well. It’s just too cheesy for me. “Hi I’m a super amazing assassin and my sole job now is protecting this person I’m also sleeping with” is just not compelling.
I couldn’t get past the first chapter where the group is discussing how to manage this next woman that the current male lead is going to protect/ have lots of sex with. While at the same time we get to sit through an info dump about the couple from the last book where the man is described as employed full time as the protector/boyfriend. I need a bit more depth than this was clearly offering.
I couldn’t get past the first chapter where the group is discussing how to manage this next woman that the current male lead is going to protect/ have lots of sex with. While at the same time we get to sit through an info dump about the couple from the last book where the man is described as employed full time as the protector/boyfriend. I need a bit more depth than this was clearly offering.
November 11, 2018
This is how romantic suspense should be done! I was lost in the intense action, but the romance was always present. Which is important because I lose interest quickly if there's no love story.
In the first pages of this book, we're told there is a mole in the CIA. As we listen in on a meeting between a few people who know of the problem, we learn how deep the mole problem goes. Read More
In the first pages of this book, we're told there is a mole in the CIA. As we listen in on a meeting between a few people who know of the problem, we learn how deep the mole problem goes. Read More
April 23, 2022
Assassin Games
Sidney has done it again! This story keeps you on the edge of your seat. Carol is only an analyst while Andy is more than what he wants people to see. It's tough to find out things about your family but in the spy game, you never know what you will find out. FANTASTIC job Sidney! I would recommend this book.
Sidney has done it again! This story keeps you on the edge of your seat. Carol is only an analyst while Andy is more than what he wants people to see. It's tough to find out things about your family but in the spy game, you never know what you will find out. FANTASTIC job Sidney! I would recommend this book.
November 12, 2018
Assassin Games
This was an fun book to read. There was plenty going on to make it a page turner - action, intrigue, and romance.
This was an fun book to read. There was plenty going on to make it a page turner - action, intrigue, and romance.
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