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Maximum Security #1
The Conspiracy
New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin raises the tension and the passion when family ambition turns deadly…
Harper Winston’s brother has disappeared. Pursuing his dream of sailing the Caribbean, Michael hasn’t responded to texts or emails in days. When even the Coast Guard can’t find him, Harper is forced to take desperate measures. Which means going to Chase Garrett, once her brother’s best friend, now the only man she can trust…or so she hopes.
As the successful owner of Maximum Security, Chase has learned to trust his gut. He knows Harper’s father is mixed up in a deadly business, and suspects there’s more to Michael’s disappearance than meets the eye. Getting involved again with the Winstons goes against everything he stands for, yet old loyalties die hard. As the case draws him closer to Harper and deeper into the Winstons’ snarled crime family, he is forced to put everything on the line to keep Harper safe…and both of them alive.
Also includes a bonus Maximum Security novella, Wait Until Dark !
Harper Winston’s brother has disappeared. Pursuing his dream of sailing the Caribbean, Michael hasn’t responded to texts or emails in days. When even the Coast Guard can’t find him, Harper is forced to take desperate measures. Which means going to Chase Garrett, once her brother’s best friend, now the only man she can trust…or so she hopes.
As the successful owner of Maximum Security, Chase has learned to trust his gut. He knows Harper’s father is mixed up in a deadly business, and suspects there’s more to Michael’s disappearance than meets the eye. Getting involved again with the Winstons goes against everything he stands for, yet old loyalties die hard. As the case draws him closer to Harper and deeper into the Winstons’ snarled crime family, he is forced to put everything on the line to keep Harper safe…and both of them alive.
Also includes a bonus Maximum Security novella, Wait Until Dark !
512 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 22, 2019
1233 people are currently reading
3114 people want to read
About the author
Kat Martin
188 books3,171 followersKathleen Kelly Martin (aka Kathy Lawrence, Kasey Mars)
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
February 17, 2019
The Conspiracy is first in a new romantic suspense series from Kat Martin.
Harper Winston’s brother, Michael, is missing. He has been sailing the Caribbean and no longer responds to texts. Harper sends the Coast Guard on a search to no avail.
Chase Garrett was once Michael’s best friend, but they had a major falling out. Harper is desperate to find her brother, and Chase is her last resort. Chase owns Maximum Security, and he knows things about Harper’s father she doesn’t know.
Harper’s father is involved in some bad stuff, heavily criminal stuff, and what likely put Michael in danger. Chase would rather not get involved, but he still cares about his missing friend.
Chase’s mission to help save Michael pulls him closer to Harper, as one might expect. Harper and Michael are strong characters. Chase is the protective type, while Harper is a devoted and loyal sister.
Overall, I found the storyline tense and dramatic, the pacing was strong, along with a backdrop of crime and a touch romantic elements.
Thanks to Harlequin for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Harper Winston’s brother, Michael, is missing. He has been sailing the Caribbean and no longer responds to texts. Harper sends the Coast Guard on a search to no avail.
Chase Garrett was once Michael’s best friend, but they had a major falling out. Harper is desperate to find her brother, and Chase is her last resort. Chase owns Maximum Security, and he knows things about Harper’s father she doesn’t know.
Harper’s father is involved in some bad stuff, heavily criminal stuff, and what likely put Michael in danger. Chase would rather not get involved, but he still cares about his missing friend.
Chase’s mission to help save Michael pulls him closer to Harper, as one might expect. Harper and Michael are strong characters. Chase is the protective type, while Harper is a devoted and loyal sister.
Overall, I found the storyline tense and dramatic, the pacing was strong, along with a backdrop of crime and a touch romantic elements.
Thanks to Harlequin for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
March 4, 2019
My Rating:
3.5
My Review:
I believe I would have enjoyed it more if I were a man as it was nonstop action with abductions, jungle trekking, gunfights, car crashes, rescues, explosions, dispassionate and ruthless criminals, revenge-seeking cartels, DEA agents, mercenary extractions, family drama, etc. But I am not a man and was instead expecting a story of romantic suspense instead of a busy he-man’s adventure tale. There was a bit of romance and steamy sex scenes, but the sweeter relationship was the one between the secondary characters instead of the main ones. Don’t get me wrong, this wasn’t a badly written book and the premise and various twists and storylines were interesting, the writing style just wasn’t my cup of tea. My favorite scenes were of those involving Michael, who was the most likable and considerate of the bunch.
3.5
My Review:
I believe I would have enjoyed it more if I were a man as it was nonstop action with abductions, jungle trekking, gunfights, car crashes, rescues, explosions, dispassionate and ruthless criminals, revenge-seeking cartels, DEA agents, mercenary extractions, family drama, etc. But I am not a man and was instead expecting a story of romantic suspense instead of a busy he-man’s adventure tale. There was a bit of romance and steamy sex scenes, but the sweeter relationship was the one between the secondary characters instead of the main ones. Don’t get me wrong, this wasn’t a badly written book and the premise and various twists and storylines were interesting, the writing style just wasn’t my cup of tea. My favorite scenes were of those involving Michael, who was the most likable and considerate of the bunch.
January 8, 2019
“Fate is a Hunter”
What a way to begin the NEW YEAR with a 5 STAR read! Suspense, intrigue, action, and romance! Kat Martin is officially on my 1-Click list. If you like romantic suspense, this is not a book to be missed!
The Conspiracy is about a young 30 something named Harper Winston. With her slender curves, pale blond hair, and prosperous affordable clothing line, Elemental Chic, life isn’t too bad. That is until her brother, Michael Winston, goes missing. Michael or Mikey, her only sibling and closest relative, took a month to go sail the Caribbean.
Having promised Harper he would check in every day or two, suddenly stops emailing and texting his vacation progress. Harper, immediately knowing something is wrong, schedules an appointment with Chase Garrett (35yrs), owner of Maximum Security, a firm that specializes in private investigations, personal protection, bail enforcement, residential and business security. Not only is Chase mouth watering with his whiskey-brown eyes, dark blond hair, ladder of muscle running down his stomach, and powerful physique, but he was once her brother’s best friend before an unfortunate fallout. Basically… She needs him. Fallout or not, Chase is the man she needs to bring her brother home safe & sound. But what Chase doesn’t know is that he might need her more.
Kat Martin did her homework. I enjoyed reading about the MCs investigation in Aruba and Curacoa as well as in the states. She did an excellent job describing the scenery, cultural influences, realistic dialogue, rebel soldiers, and Colombian drug cartel. Even some of the lesser supporting characters, like Killian Dawson and Dutch Van Noord, captivated my attention with their story enhancement. Our heroine wasn’t TSTL, and knew when to aid and when to sit back and let those trained progress with the investigation/rescue. I enjoyed the realistic terms and specified equipment like MREs, FUBAR, HK416, Ka-Bar knife, Mara Salvatrucha, and etc.
“ ‘Browning 9 mil, Ruger SR9, a couple of Beretta M9s. Nighthawk .45.’ He pulled out a long-barreled weapon. ‘M40 sniper rifle.’ Kil reached back into the bag, pulled out another weapon. ‘Eighteen-inch, short-barreled tactical shotgun and last but definitely not least-a relatively new AK-47.’ He grinned. ‘Pick your poison’ ”
The romance, slow at first due to the investigation, was smoldering hot!
“If I touch you again, I won’t be able to stop. Go to bed, Harper. Get some sleep. Things will look different in the morning… It’s just the stress. I hope you’ll forget this happened… That, angel, is a promise I can’t make. Now, get some sleep.”
This was not your typical brother’s best friend trope (and I’ve read many), and this is due to the fallout previously hinted at. The two MCs liked each other as teenagers, but never acted on their feelings. The obstacle in their relationship was realistic, and made the emotional journey more addicting than sugar.
And while our Hero is not without his faults, he’s quick to undo the wrongs he’s committed and follow his heart.
“…I made a mistake. I let you go when I should have fought for you. I’m not making the same mistake again. Now, let’s go.”
There were some twists and turns I had not expected, and was glad when the book continued to progress even after the rescue. Kat Martin, new to me, reminds me of some of the contemporary works by Julie Garwood
, Rebecca Zanetti
, Jessica Clare & Jen Frederick
, Kristen Ashley
, & Katie Reus
. If you find yourself gravitating towards well written and thought out books like the ones above, then you will fall in love with Kat Martin's main characters, Harper & Chase. I’m already fangirling for the sequel! Jason “Hawk” Maddox here I come!
ARC provided by NetGalley. All thoughts are mine and mine alone.
Overall Rating → 5 “Fate is a hunter” STARS
Cheating? → NO!
Page Turner? → Yes!
Would I recommend? → YES! YES! YES!
Would I re-read? → YES!
Would I read more from this author? → YES!
What a way to begin the NEW YEAR with a 5 STAR read! Suspense, intrigue, action, and romance! Kat Martin is officially on my 1-Click list. If you like romantic suspense, this is not a book to be missed!
The Conspiracy is about a young 30 something named Harper Winston. With her slender curves, pale blond hair, and prosperous affordable clothing line, Elemental Chic, life isn’t too bad. That is until her brother, Michael Winston, goes missing. Michael or Mikey, her only sibling and closest relative, took a month to go sail the Caribbean.
Having promised Harper he would check in every day or two, suddenly stops emailing and texting his vacation progress. Harper, immediately knowing something is wrong, schedules an appointment with Chase Garrett (35yrs), owner of Maximum Security, a firm that specializes in private investigations, personal protection, bail enforcement, residential and business security. Not only is Chase mouth watering with his whiskey-brown eyes, dark blond hair, ladder of muscle running down his stomach, and powerful physique, but he was once her brother’s best friend before an unfortunate fallout. Basically… She needs him. Fallout or not, Chase is the man she needs to bring her brother home safe & sound. But what Chase doesn’t know is that he might need her more.
Kat Martin did her homework. I enjoyed reading about the MCs investigation in Aruba and Curacoa as well as in the states. She did an excellent job describing the scenery, cultural influences, realistic dialogue, rebel soldiers, and Colombian drug cartel. Even some of the lesser supporting characters, like Killian Dawson and Dutch Van Noord, captivated my attention with their story enhancement. Our heroine wasn’t TSTL, and knew when to aid and when to sit back and let those trained progress with the investigation/rescue. I enjoyed the realistic terms and specified equipment like MREs, FUBAR, HK416, Ka-Bar knife, Mara Salvatrucha, and etc.
“ ‘Browning 9 mil, Ruger SR9, a couple of Beretta M9s. Nighthawk .45.’ He pulled out a long-barreled weapon. ‘M40 sniper rifle.’ Kil reached back into the bag, pulled out another weapon. ‘Eighteen-inch, short-barreled tactical shotgun and last but definitely not least-a relatively new AK-47.’ He grinned. ‘Pick your poison’ ”
The romance, slow at first due to the investigation, was smoldering hot!
“If I touch you again, I won’t be able to stop. Go to bed, Harper. Get some sleep. Things will look different in the morning… It’s just the stress. I hope you’ll forget this happened… That, angel, is a promise I can’t make. Now, get some sleep.”
This was not your typical brother’s best friend trope (and I’ve read many), and this is due to the fallout previously hinted at. The two MCs liked each other as teenagers, but never acted on their feelings. The obstacle in their relationship was realistic, and made the emotional journey more addicting than sugar.
And while our Hero is not without his faults, he’s quick to undo the wrongs he’s committed and follow his heart.
“…I made a mistake. I let you go when I should have fought for you. I’m not making the same mistake again. Now, let’s go.”
There were some twists and turns I had not expected, and was glad when the book continued to progress even after the rescue. Kat Martin, new to me, reminds me of some of the contemporary works by Julie Garwood
, Rebecca Zanetti
, Jessica Clare & Jen Frederick
, Kristen Ashley
, & Katie Reus
. If you find yourself gravitating towards well written and thought out books like the ones above, then you will fall in love with Kat Martin's main characters, Harper & Chase. I’m already fangirling for the sequel! Jason “Hawk” Maddox here I come!ARC provided by NetGalley. All thoughts are mine and mine alone.
Overall Rating → 5 “Fate is a hunter” STARS
Cheating? → NO!
Page Turner? → Yes!
Would I recommend? → YES! YES! YES!
Would I re-read? → YES!
Would I read more from this author? → YES!
July 25, 2020
This is an entertaining, well-written, enjoyable, steamy, romantic suspense novel. I was happily surprised to discover the excellent bonus novella, "Wait Until Dark" included in the library Kindle book. Both stories were fast paced with likable, engaging characters, suspense, action, intrigue, and happily ever after endings. I am looking forward to reading the next novel in Ms. Martin's outstanding "Maximum Security" series with great anticipation.
Please note that George Harrison wrote and sang "Something".
Please note that George Harrison wrote and sang "Something".
May 1, 2019
The Conspiracy was a terrific read with the perfect blend of romance and suspense.
After sailing to the Caribbean, Michael Winston disappears without a trace leaving his sister Harper terrified and wondering what happened to him. Determined to find him no matter what, Harper contacts Chase Garrett, Michael's former best friend and the owner of a successful security firm, for help. Chase has avoided the Winston family for years, but when Harper shows up requesting his help, he can't turn her down. But as Chase and Harper look into Michael's disappearance, Chase quickly begins to suspect foul play. As the situation unravels around them, Chase realizes he will do anything to keep Harper safe.
The case of Michael's disappearance was intriguing and I found myself wondering what information Chase or Harper could possibly find with Michael being missing for several days. But Chase and Harper get to Aruba fairly quickly after Harper got Chase involved to begin investigating and and I was definitely surprised by how quickly the two uncovered information. In my mind I thought Michael's disappearance would take most of the book to solve, but that didn't end up being the case. Everything that happens after they solve that mystery though was just as interesting as the disappearance itself. In addition to the main plot, there are also a couple small cases Chase works on for Maximum Security while helping out Harper. I enjoyed those and getting to see how Chase reacted in different types of situations.
Harper and Chase's relationship starts out on rocky ground as Chase believes Harper will slow him down whereas Harper is determined to be involved whether Chase wants her to be or not. I was happy to see that Chase quickly came to realize Harper was not without skill and that at times she was actually an asset, not the hindrance he thought she would be. Initially the attraction between the pair simmers just below the surface with both of them trying to keep their desires contained. When their relationship does progress, it's incredibly hot with some fantastic scenes. My one complaint about their relationship was at times Chase could be a bit too alpha male for my tastes. I'm a fan of protective men in my romances, but it did get a bit old with how often Chase would make decisions for Harper.
Overall I really enjoyed The Conspiracy and I'm looking forward to reading more books in the Maximum Security series in the future. I definitely recommend this book, and the prequel novella Wait Until Dark, if you're looking for some great, suspenseful reads.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
After sailing to the Caribbean, Michael Winston disappears without a trace leaving his sister Harper terrified and wondering what happened to him. Determined to find him no matter what, Harper contacts Chase Garrett, Michael's former best friend and the owner of a successful security firm, for help. Chase has avoided the Winston family for years, but when Harper shows up requesting his help, he can't turn her down. But as Chase and Harper look into Michael's disappearance, Chase quickly begins to suspect foul play. As the situation unravels around them, Chase realizes he will do anything to keep Harper safe.
The case of Michael's disappearance was intriguing and I found myself wondering what information Chase or Harper could possibly find with Michael being missing for several days. But Chase and Harper get to Aruba fairly quickly after Harper got Chase involved to begin investigating and and I was definitely surprised by how quickly the two uncovered information. In my mind I thought Michael's disappearance would take most of the book to solve, but that didn't end up being the case. Everything that happens after they solve that mystery though was just as interesting as the disappearance itself. In addition to the main plot, there are also a couple small cases Chase works on for Maximum Security while helping out Harper. I enjoyed those and getting to see how Chase reacted in different types of situations.
Harper and Chase's relationship starts out on rocky ground as Chase believes Harper will slow him down whereas Harper is determined to be involved whether Chase wants her to be or not. I was happy to see that Chase quickly came to realize Harper was not without skill and that at times she was actually an asset, not the hindrance he thought she would be. Initially the attraction between the pair simmers just below the surface with both of them trying to keep their desires contained. When their relationship does progress, it's incredibly hot with some fantastic scenes. My one complaint about their relationship was at times Chase could be a bit too alpha male for my tastes. I'm a fan of protective men in my romances, but it did get a bit old with how often Chase would make decisions for Harper.
Overall I really enjoyed The Conspiracy and I'm looking forward to reading more books in the Maximum Security series in the future. I definitely recommend this book, and the prequel novella Wait Until Dark, if you're looking for some great, suspenseful reads.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
November 26, 2018
Pretty good. Heavy on the suspense and crime. Light on the heat. 3.5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Conspiracy is a very well written story that ties many of the things I enjoy reading into one. This book is a contemporary hot billionaire, girl next-door, second chance, suspense-laden love story.
There are many aspects to this story that I thoroughly enjoyed. This book is loaded with anticipation. Harper has been crushing on Chase her whole life and seeing him again has brought back those intense feelings. Chase has the same feelings but knows she is off limits because of her father.
Most of the story was dedicated to finding Michael, Harper’s brother, protecting her from potential kidnappers, and her father’s issues. Not as much of the story was actually the budding romance; actually more the reason there should not be one. I really wanted more dedicated to the romance aspect, however.
I loved the suspense and crime portion of the story but for me the romance was lacking. I wanted more of a connection. Other than their words, I really felt the physical connection was a bit lacking. I wanted a deeper, intense connection between these two strong characters.
Chase is awesome character and everything we want in a leading man; hot, intense, protective, kind – sigh. The connection with his brothers and the security company storyline is going to make for a great series. I will be looking forward to more in this series.
Kat Martin showcases her strong storytelling ability in this romantic suspense. For those that love the crime and suspense drama’s, this is a perfect choice!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-conspira...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Conspiracy is a very well written story that ties many of the things I enjoy reading into one. This book is a contemporary hot billionaire, girl next-door, second chance, suspense-laden love story.
There are many aspects to this story that I thoroughly enjoyed. This book is loaded with anticipation. Harper has been crushing on Chase her whole life and seeing him again has brought back those intense feelings. Chase has the same feelings but knows she is off limits because of her father.
Most of the story was dedicated to finding Michael, Harper’s brother, protecting her from potential kidnappers, and her father’s issues. Not as much of the story was actually the budding romance; actually more the reason there should not be one. I really wanted more dedicated to the romance aspect, however.
I loved the suspense and crime portion of the story but for me the romance was lacking. I wanted more of a connection. Other than their words, I really felt the physical connection was a bit lacking. I wanted a deeper, intense connection between these two strong characters.
Chase is awesome character and everything we want in a leading man; hot, intense, protective, kind – sigh. The connection with his brothers and the security company storyline is going to make for a great series. I will be looking forward to more in this series.
Kat Martin showcases her strong storytelling ability in this romantic suspense. For those that love the crime and suspense drama’s, this is a perfect choice!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-conspira...
January 31, 2019
3.5 Stars.
Fast-paced, provocative, and twisty!
The Conspiracy is the first novel in a new series by Martin that introduces us to Harper Winston, a determined, worried, young woman who embarks on a perilous journey to find her missing brother with the help of the resourceful, sexy, Chase Garrett.
The writing style is seductive and tight. The characters are intelligent, tenacious, and multi-layered. And the plot is a sultry, suspenseful mix of greed, corruption, revenge, familial drama, friendship, mercenary operations, kidnapping, violence, and red-hot chemistry.
Overall, The Conspiracy is an intense, action-packed, entertaining read that has everything you look for in a romantic suspense novel, and is a rousing introduction to the Maximum Security gang.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Fast-paced, provocative, and twisty!
The Conspiracy is the first novel in a new series by Martin that introduces us to Harper Winston, a determined, worried, young woman who embarks on a perilous journey to find her missing brother with the help of the resourceful, sexy, Chase Garrett.
The writing style is seductive and tight. The characters are intelligent, tenacious, and multi-layered. And the plot is a sultry, suspenseful mix of greed, corruption, revenge, familial drama, friendship, mercenary operations, kidnapping, violence, and red-hot chemistry.
Overall, The Conspiracy is an intense, action-packed, entertaining read that has everything you look for in a romantic suspense novel, and is a rousing introduction to the Maximum Security gang.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2019
H and h know each other since he went to her sixteenth birthday party. Though he found her attractive he had no interest in pursuing her as she was his friend’s lil sister and young. I’m sure if she never came to him for his help to find her brother, he would have never even talked with her. She on the other hand had a crush on him. But after her brother became addicted to alcohol and drugs, there friendship ended. Also the H hated their father, who was a gangster in suit.
So the H wants nothing to do with the h or her brother or her family . But after some 10 years, the h visits him and asks him to come with her out of the country to find her brother, he agrees. And all of a sudden he is sexually attracted to her but still not enough to want to pursue her.
“The last thing he needed was to be sucked into a family that ran a criminal enterprise, no matter how attractive the daughter might be.”
He just wanted to find her brother then put her out of his mind by fucking a woman, with whom he has sexual relationship.
“Sex was always good between them. And their relationship was far from exclusive. He’d spend some time with Marla, enjoy some mutually satisfying sex and forget the woman he wanted but couldn’t have.”
So he wanted to fuck the ow with whom he has a SEXUALLY SATISFYING RELATIONSHIP.
Anyways the sexual tension between the H and the h was dull and bland. I was just not feeling it.
Also the h had a reputation of being a dead fish in the bed. Her exes told everyone including the H that she was cold and unresponsive in bed. And the H believed that. Also he thought of her as ice queen. So he viewed her as some useless thing before.
I’m bored. I wouldn’t have rated it 1 star but the H’s thoughts about the h seemed like he was doing a favor for the h by being with her.
No Thanks.
So the H wants nothing to do with the h or her brother or her family . But after some 10 years, the h visits him and asks him to come with her out of the country to find her brother, he agrees. And all of a sudden he is sexually attracted to her but still not enough to want to pursue her.
“The last thing he needed was to be sucked into a family that ran a criminal enterprise, no matter how attractive the daughter might be.”
He just wanted to find her brother then put her out of his mind by fucking a woman, with whom he has sexual relationship.
“Sex was always good between them. And their relationship was far from exclusive. He’d spend some time with Marla, enjoy some mutually satisfying sex and forget the woman he wanted but couldn’t have.”
So he wanted to fuck the ow with whom he has a SEXUALLY SATISFYING RELATIONSHIP.
Anyways the sexual tension between the H and the h was dull and bland. I was just not feeling it.
Also the h had a reputation of being a dead fish in the bed. Her exes told everyone including the H that she was cold and unresponsive in bed. And the H believed that. Also he thought of her as ice queen. So he viewed her as some useless thing before.
I’m bored. I wouldn’t have rated it 1 star but the H’s thoughts about the h seemed like he was doing a favor for the h by being with her.
No Thanks.
January 22, 2019
Coffee Dates with The Conspiracy
First Date: Harper Winston's brother has disappeared while sailing in the Caribbean. She is worried about foul play and hires her brother's childhood friend even though there was a fallout between the families. Chase Garrett owns Maximum Security and knows Harper's father is dirty. He suspects something is up and agrees to help Harper. (If only to keep her safe.) She has had a crush on him since she was a teen. He knows he needs to keep his hands off her. But both are thinking about it and as they work to find Michael things heat-up. I like the tension and I am curious to see how things unfold.
Second Date: We spend time in the Caribbean and other countries as they work to find Micheal. This was an intense case and Martin quickly pulled me in. For those who love stories that are heavier on the suspense and mystery you will find the details, twists and surprises welcome. Both Chase and Harper are likable characters and that helped pull me in. They are both strong, intelligent and fearless but sensible. Does that make sense?
Third Date: It surprised me when the case involving Michael wrapped up and we still had fifty percent to go, but oh boy did Martin bring on suspense and relationship complications as the DEA, FBI and local police become involved. Before it is all over, secrets will be revealed, someone will be arrested, and the relationship will heat up, even if it takes place off the page. Despite some made for TV scenes and escapes it was thrilling! Martin kept it grounded in plausibility (mostly).
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date: Harper Winston's brother has disappeared while sailing in the Caribbean. She is worried about foul play and hires her brother's childhood friend even though there was a fallout between the families. Chase Garrett owns Maximum Security and knows Harper's father is dirty. He suspects something is up and agrees to help Harper. (If only to keep her safe.) She has had a crush on him since she was a teen. He knows he needs to keep his hands off her. But both are thinking about it and as they work to find Michael things heat-up. I like the tension and I am curious to see how things unfold.
Second Date: We spend time in the Caribbean and other countries as they work to find Micheal. This was an intense case and Martin quickly pulled me in. For those who love stories that are heavier on the suspense and mystery you will find the details, twists and surprises welcome. Both Chase and Harper are likable characters and that helped pull me in. They are both strong, intelligent and fearless but sensible. Does that make sense?
Third Date: It surprised me when the case involving Michael wrapped up and we still had fifty percent to go, but oh boy did Martin bring on suspense and relationship complications as the DEA, FBI and local police become involved. Before it is all over, secrets will be revealed, someone will be arrested, and the relationship will heat up, even if it takes place off the page. Despite some made for TV scenes and escapes it was thrilling! Martin kept it grounded in plausibility (mostly).
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
January 19, 2019
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
Scorching hot romance and twisty suspense written by one of my favorite authors. It amazes me how consistently wonderful a book by Kat Martin can be. Few authors can just take me away and lead me on an adventure like she can.
When Harper Winston’s brother, Michael, fails to check in while on a sailing trip in the Caribbean, she knows deep down that something is very wrong. When all efforts fail to find him, Harper go to the one person she knows can.
Chase Garrett was Michael's best friend in college, but the two parted ways over Michael's drug use. Harper claims he has cleaned up his act and now runs his own successful tech company, but Chase isn't so sure. As the owner of Maximum Security his job is finding people so he decides to help Harper for old times sake and because the cute 16 year old has turned into a very hot woman. But, it's going to be strictly business because of a deep hatred between their fathers and Harper's dad is not quite the legitimate businessman he wants everyone to see.
Deep in the jungles of Columbia, Chase knows that Michael's kidnapping is not just the snatch and grab of a rich man's son for ransom. It is something much more and now Chase is involved and the only way to keep Harper safe is to trust his instincts and Harper.
Scorching hot romance and twisty suspense written by one of my favorite authors. It amazes me how consistently wonderful a book by Kat Martin can be. Few authors can just take me away and lead me on an adventure like she can.
When Harper Winston’s brother, Michael, fails to check in while on a sailing trip in the Caribbean, she knows deep down that something is very wrong. When all efforts fail to find him, Harper go to the one person she knows can.
Chase Garrett was Michael's best friend in college, but the two parted ways over Michael's drug use. Harper claims he has cleaned up his act and now runs his own successful tech company, but Chase isn't so sure. As the owner of Maximum Security his job is finding people so he decides to help Harper for old times sake and because the cute 16 year old has turned into a very hot woman. But, it's going to be strictly business because of a deep hatred between their fathers and Harper's dad is not quite the legitimate businessman he wants everyone to see.
Deep in the jungles of Columbia, Chase knows that Michael's kidnapping is not just the snatch and grab of a rich man's son for ransom. It is something much more and now Chase is involved and the only way to keep Harper safe is to trust his instincts and Harper.
September 11, 2019
MY RATING⇢ 2.3 STARS | GRADE D+
FEATURING⇢
Light on the Romane
& Heavy on the Suspense
Romantic Suspense
Missing Persons
The Beautiful People...
Cliché'd Characters & Actions
Sex-plicit
With Audio Performed by Ryan Turner
MY THOUGHTS⇢
If you like the style of romantic suspense that was popular in the '80s and into the '90s or you like the style of Susanne Brockmann than this is probably something you'll love. This Author's style of writing reminded me of her work quite a lot...and I, used to like this...but sometimes our tastes change, including our taste in books.
Laden with the type of characters that are so-hot-you-can't-take-your-eyes-off-of-them and a romance that I didn't feel was truly believable. This book just didn't do anything for me...and overall it felt like she just kept throwing in plot twists to make up for actual substance. Sadly, this kind of book just isn't my cuppa, at least not anymore. I should also mention that the narration by a guy, especially this particular guy, really killed the vibe for me and maybe it could have been better if it had a female narrator for the female POV. Although, it might not have made a difference.
THE BREAKDOWN⇢
Plot⇢ 3/5
Narration Performance⇢ 2.5/5
Characters⇢ 2.5/5
The Feels⇢ 1.5/5
Pacing⇢ 3/5
Addictiveness⇢ 2/5
Theme or Tone⇢ 2.7/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇢ 3/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇢ 2.5/5
Originality⇢ 2.3/5
Ending⇢ 2.3/5 Cliffhanger⇢ Nah...
_____
Book Cover⇢ I love the sky in this cover, it's what drew me in...sadly, I was fooled by a pretty cover.
Setting⇢ Aruba and Texas
Source⇢ Audiobook (Library)
Audiobook Length⇢ 11 hours, 8 minutes
FEATURING⇢
Light on the Romane
& Heavy on the Suspense
Romantic Suspense
Missing Persons
The Beautiful People...
Cliché'd Characters & Actions
Sex-plicit
With Audio Performed by Ryan Turner
MY THOUGHTS⇢
If you like the style of romantic suspense that was popular in the '80s and into the '90s or you like the style of Susanne Brockmann than this is probably something you'll love. This Author's style of writing reminded me of her work quite a lot...and I, used to like this...but sometimes our tastes change, including our taste in books.
Laden with the type of characters that are so-hot-you-can't-take-your-eyes-off-of-them and a romance that I didn't feel was truly believable. This book just didn't do anything for me...and overall it felt like she just kept throwing in plot twists to make up for actual substance. Sadly, this kind of book just isn't my cuppa, at least not anymore. I should also mention that the narration by a guy, especially this particular guy, really killed the vibe for me and maybe it could have been better if it had a female narrator for the female POV. Although, it might not have made a difference.
THE BREAKDOWN⇢
Plot⇢ 3/5
Narration Performance⇢ 2.5/5
Characters⇢ 2.5/5
The Feels⇢ 1.5/5
Pacing⇢ 3/5
Addictiveness⇢ 2/5
Theme or Tone⇢ 2.7/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇢ 3/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇢ 2.5/5
Originality⇢ 2.3/5
Ending⇢ 2.3/5 Cliffhanger⇢ Nah...
_____
Book Cover⇢ I love the sky in this cover, it's what drew me in...sadly, I was fooled by a pretty cover.
Setting⇢ Aruba and Texas
Source⇢ Audiobook (Library)
Audiobook Length⇢ 11 hours, 8 minutes
January 12, 2019
I’ve been a Kat Martin fan for a long time but this book has upped the ante! Wow! I could not put it down! I fell in love with each and every character and will be reading all subsequent novels and novellas. Every single time I thought I had this book figured out, a new plot twist would throw me! It was SO good!
November 17, 2018
I thought ‘The Conspiracy’ started off quite well, with the plot quickly and decisively set up: Harper Winston’s brother has gone missing and her desperation to get him back leads her to his former best friend (and the man she’d always wanted) though they haven’t been in contact for years. That this has ties to their powerful father who has shady dealings—who might have something to do with her brother’s disappearance—upped the ante from the start.
After an exciting start however, it was towards the middle that my interest started to flag. The insertions of multiple POVs, long descriptions of place, secondary characters, their personal histories and scattered pieces of the overall puzzle, simply detracted from the momentum of the main story. I skimmed, then read on when the story got back on track (rinse and repeat)—this pretty much described the entire experience throughout the book.
The initial attraction between Harper and Chase consisted mostly of individual internal monologues revolving around their lust for each other and their indecision about making a move. Still, there’s action, some twists involved and a case of major pushing away…which also happens only to a certain extent because neither Harper nor Chase can stop wanting sex with each other.
I’m not entirely sure how to put a finger on this, but reading ’The Conspiracy’ feels curiously akin to reading an older style of romance (outfitted with contemporary themes of RS and the technology of the day) with a more erotic hook, with Kat Martin’s characterisation steeping her protagonists in more ‘traditional’ roles that historical (?) romantic fiction tends to perpetuate.
In this case, Harper cried a lot, turned pale a fair bit, gasped each time as she stared at Chase’s body, was somehow naive as hell at the heart of it yet magically transformed into someone who knew how to be part of a military op. On the other hand, Chase’s eyes burned with hunger constantly as though he was on the verge of ravishing her, got hard with the slightest thought of her and pretty much played the macho man throughout. That he used their sexual attraction to get back into her good graces felt like manipulation: did Chase have to really do stupid things while knowing it would cause Harper some pain, then bend over backwards to make it up? That it had to take something so monumental for him to turnaround to decide that he wanted her permanently when he’d initially wanted a clean break with her?
Most probably it’s Kat Martin’s style that doesn’t gel with me personally. I simply thought 'The Conspiracy' could have been so much more (a leaner, meaner read that could have left me reeling the good way, essentially) but fell far short of my own expectations.
This isn’t a book for me clearly; from style to characters, there were quite a few things that I couldn’t really get on board with, though I can imagine that this would be a typical offering for the RS crowd from a staple RS author.
*ARC by Netgalley via the publisher
After an exciting start however, it was towards the middle that my interest started to flag. The insertions of multiple POVs, long descriptions of place, secondary characters, their personal histories and scattered pieces of the overall puzzle, simply detracted from the momentum of the main story. I skimmed, then read on when the story got back on track (rinse and repeat)—this pretty much described the entire experience throughout the book.
The initial attraction between Harper and Chase consisted mostly of individual internal monologues revolving around their lust for each other and their indecision about making a move. Still, there’s action, some twists involved and a case of major pushing away…which also happens only to a certain extent because neither Harper nor Chase can stop wanting sex with each other.
I’m not entirely sure how to put a finger on this, but reading ’The Conspiracy’ feels curiously akin to reading an older style of romance (outfitted with contemporary themes of RS and the technology of the day) with a more erotic hook, with Kat Martin’s characterisation steeping her protagonists in more ‘traditional’ roles that historical (?) romantic fiction tends to perpetuate.
In this case, Harper cried a lot, turned pale a fair bit, gasped each time as she stared at Chase’s body, was somehow naive as hell at the heart of it yet magically transformed into someone who knew how to be part of a military op. On the other hand, Chase’s eyes burned with hunger constantly as though he was on the verge of ravishing her, got hard with the slightest thought of her and pretty much played the macho man throughout. That he used their sexual attraction to get back into her good graces felt like manipulation: did Chase have to really do stupid things while knowing it would cause Harper some pain, then bend over backwards to make it up? That it had to take something so monumental for him to turnaround to decide that he wanted her permanently when he’d initially wanted a clean break with her?
Most probably it’s Kat Martin’s style that doesn’t gel with me personally. I simply thought 'The Conspiracy' could have been so much more (a leaner, meaner read that could have left me reeling the good way, essentially) but fell far short of my own expectations.
This isn’t a book for me clearly; from style to characters, there were quite a few things that I couldn’t really get on board with, though I can imagine that this would be a typical offering for the RS crowd from a staple RS author.
*ARC by Netgalley via the publisher
June 10, 2019
Harper Winston's knows something is wrong when her brother, Michael, who went on yachting to the Caribbean doesn't contact her as promised in days. So she goes to his once best friend and her old crush, Chase.
Chase Garrett is the owner of Maximum Security and once best friend of Michael. Due to the addictions Michael was dealing with and almost death Chase walks away from the friendship. Michael and Harper's father is also into some shady business as well as having some animosity toward his dad and by extension him and his brothers. So when Harper comes to him to for help he is hesitant to get involved at all. But he can't say no when Harper tells him that she will go with or without him.
Harper and Chase set off to find Michael and find themselves falling for each other even with all the issues between them. They also find that Michael is in some serious trouble and getting him out won't be easy but it will also won't be over at the end and who it ties to will also cause more problems than they thought.
I had trouble with this book at first and kept putting it down. But once I got thru it got better and I enjoyed it.
I did think Harper was naive in that when she finds out about her father she didn't ever want to admit her dad was shady even after her brother said so too and knew and even with her own suspicions. She also kept wanting to stick her head in the ground and not want to admit any of her dad's wrong doing.
Chase had moments where he I didn't like something he did. My biggest issue is the younger brother and how he roped Chase into helping with taking the father down. He knew it was wrong but had no issue basically telling Chase to use Harper to their advantage. At least Chase did have guilt but the brother to me had no remorse about it. No true apology to either of them.
I did like the brother Michael a lot and his romance was sweet too. I think I had some moments but overall a solid read.
Chase Garrett is the owner of Maximum Security and once best friend of Michael. Due to the addictions Michael was dealing with and almost death Chase walks away from the friendship. Michael and Harper's father is also into some shady business as well as having some animosity toward his dad and by extension him and his brothers. So when Harper comes to him to for help he is hesitant to get involved at all. But he can't say no when Harper tells him that she will go with or without him.
Harper and Chase set off to find Michael and find themselves falling for each other even with all the issues between them. They also find that Michael is in some serious trouble and getting him out won't be easy but it will also won't be over at the end and who it ties to will also cause more problems than they thought.
I had trouble with this book at first and kept putting it down. But once I got thru it got better and I enjoyed it.
I did think Harper was naive in that when she finds out about her father she didn't ever want to admit her dad was shady even after her brother said so too and knew and even with her own suspicions. She also kept wanting to stick her head in the ground and not want to admit any of her dad's wrong doing.
Chase had moments where he I didn't like something he did. My biggest issue is the younger brother and how he roped Chase into helping with taking the father down. He knew it was wrong but had no issue basically telling Chase to use Harper to their advantage. At least Chase did have guilt but the brother to me had no remorse about it. No true apology to either of them.
I did like the brother Michael a lot and his romance was sweet too. I think I had some moments but overall a solid read.
May 24, 2019
Hot Pretty People and Guns
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
So, this is one of the easy, breezy beach reads.
It's romantic suspense. Sometimes, though, the romance is more silly than hot and the suspense just...isn't. You have absolutely no doubt going in that everything is going to be okay. You have killers who time and again remarkably refrain from killing our characters. Rapists who leer and plot a lot but really go out of their way not to rape anyone. And pretty people running from danger while, more often than not, thinking someone's hot. (Because that's totally where your mind goes when someone is threatening to kill or rape you.)
But it's entertaining as can be and that's really all you can ask from this kind of book.
Book 2 will feature more pretty people, but I liked those pretty people better than our main characters here, so I'll likely give it a try.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
So, this is one of the easy, breezy beach reads.
It's romantic suspense. Sometimes, though, the romance is more silly than hot and the suspense just...isn't. You have absolutely no doubt going in that everything is going to be okay. You have killers who time and again remarkably refrain from killing our characters. Rapists who leer and plot a lot but really go out of their way not to rape anyone. And pretty people running from danger while, more often than not, thinking someone's hot. (Because that's totally where your mind goes when someone is threatening to kill or rape you.)
But it's entertaining as can be and that's really all you can ask from this kind of book.
Book 2 will feature more pretty people, but I liked those pretty people better than our main characters here, so I'll likely give it a try.
January 31, 2019
*Review copy provided by publisher. I voluntarily left an honest review.*
I’ve never read anything by this author but I loved the blurb of this book, so I decided to give it a chance. When I first started the book, I really enjoyed the story. The author did a good job building up the suspense elements of the story.
As far as the couple Chase and Harper, go I felt no chemistry between the two. There was lust but I didn’t feel an actual romantic connection between the two. Harper always had a thing for Chase but he was her older brother, best friend so that was a hard no. Now that she needs Chase’s help to find her missing brother she’s hoping maybe something can finally happen.
Given their past history I was expecting more emotion and tension. I felt like their relationship (if you could call it that) was showed to us and I would have liked to see it develop before my four eyes. Harper at times acted like a silly school girl with her first crush.
Y’all haven’t seen each other in years, haven’t gone on one date but the first time y’all have sex, you consider it making love? No. That’s not how it works! The man didn’t even take you out on proper date!! I love Harper is supposed to be this independent career woman but turns into a love sick puppy when it comes to a man? Can we please STOP doing this in 2019?
Once we got to the middle of the story, that’s when things started to fall apart for me. I got introduced to so many characters and it made my head spin. I know this is a romantic suspense but there has to be a balance between the two. I felt it focused too much on the suspense in the second half. At one point the drama and action was too much. How much can happen to one person? Or family? I also felt like Chase and Harper’s romance was put on the back burner.
As I previously stated this is my first time reading this author and I’m not sure if I will continue on with this series. I liked the premise and the story had huge potential but the execution was lacking and sadly fell flat for me.
I’ve never read anything by this author but I loved the blurb of this book, so I decided to give it a chance. When I first started the book, I really enjoyed the story. The author did a good job building up the suspense elements of the story.
As far as the couple Chase and Harper, go I felt no chemistry between the two. There was lust but I didn’t feel an actual romantic connection between the two. Harper always had a thing for Chase but he was her older brother, best friend so that was a hard no. Now that she needs Chase’s help to find her missing brother she’s hoping maybe something can finally happen.
Given their past history I was expecting more emotion and tension. I felt like their relationship (if you could call it that) was showed to us and I would have liked to see it develop before my four eyes. Harper at times acted like a silly school girl with her first crush.
Y’all haven’t seen each other in years, haven’t gone on one date but the first time y’all have sex, you consider it making love? No. That’s not how it works! The man didn’t even take you out on proper date!! I love Harper is supposed to be this independent career woman but turns into a love sick puppy when it comes to a man? Can we please STOP doing this in 2019?
Once we got to the middle of the story, that’s when things started to fall apart for me. I got introduced to so many characters and it made my head spin. I know this is a romantic suspense but there has to be a balance between the two. I felt it focused too much on the suspense in the second half. At one point the drama and action was too much. How much can happen to one person? Or family? I also felt like Chase and Harper’s romance was put on the back burner.
As I previously stated this is my first time reading this author and I’m not sure if I will continue on with this series. I liked the premise and the story had huge potential but the execution was lacking and sadly fell flat for me.
January 23, 2019
**2.5 Stars**
Kat Martin takes readers on a crazy adventure in her latest romantic suspense novel, THE CONSPIRACY. This book follows successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, Harper, and handsome private detective, Chase, as they chase (see what I did there?) after Harper’s brother who has gone missing.
The Pros: I didn’t know this was the first book in a series, but I am into it. Ms. Martin plans to write an entire series centered around the men in Chase’s private investigations business. The secondary characters in this book are vibrant, fun, and super hot. I think this book does an excellent job of getting readers excited for the next book in the series, I certainly am.
The Cons: This whole book feels rather two-dimensional. Neither Harper nor Chase have any real depth as characters, and I was having a hard time rooting for them as a couple. Chase is just a difficult character for me to like overall. He is a “good guy” but I just never felt connected with him. Chase is rich, successful, always does the right thing… it’s slightly dull. I also didn’t feel like he has any conflict in his life besides the heroine, who he is somewhat condescending to for most of the book.
I really started to enjoy the plot line in the middle of the book in spite of my irritation with the main characters. I was excited and enjoying things all the way up to the last few chapters and the end. I won’t spoil anything but let’s just say there was a lot of eye-rolling on my part.
Overall, this is a fun, easy, and, for the most part, fast-paced romantic suspense novel. Ms. Martin is clearly a talented author, and I am excited to read future books in this series, THE CONSPIRACY just missed the mark for me.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
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Kat Martin takes readers on a crazy adventure in her latest romantic suspense novel, THE CONSPIRACY. This book follows successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, Harper, and handsome private detective, Chase, as they chase (see what I did there?) after Harper’s brother who has gone missing.
The Pros: I didn’t know this was the first book in a series, but I am into it. Ms. Martin plans to write an entire series centered around the men in Chase’s private investigations business. The secondary characters in this book are vibrant, fun, and super hot. I think this book does an excellent job of getting readers excited for the next book in the series, I certainly am.
The Cons: This whole book feels rather two-dimensional. Neither Harper nor Chase have any real depth as characters, and I was having a hard time rooting for them as a couple. Chase is just a difficult character for me to like overall. He is a “good guy” but I just never felt connected with him. Chase is rich, successful, always does the right thing… it’s slightly dull. I also didn’t feel like he has any conflict in his life besides the heroine, who he is somewhat condescending to for most of the book.
I really started to enjoy the plot line in the middle of the book in spite of my irritation with the main characters. I was excited and enjoying things all the way up to the last few chapters and the end. I won’t spoil anything but let’s just say there was a lot of eye-rolling on my part.
Overall, this is a fun, easy, and, for the most part, fast-paced romantic suspense novel. Ms. Martin is clearly a talented author, and I am excited to read future books in this series, THE CONSPIRACY just missed the mark for me.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
Find/Follow me on Twitter Instagram and my blog !!
January 23, 2019
Review can be found on my blog here: https://booksonthebookshelf.wordpress...
....
Thank you to Harlequin for gifting my a paperback copy of this book to read and share my review. All opinions are my own and are in no way influenced.
....
I loved this book. There was so much action and suspense going on, there was never a dull moment in the book. A perfect combination of action, suspense, intrigue, twists, turns and even some romance, this book was a fantastic read!
I enjoyed reading about the two main characters, Harper and Chase. Harper seemed the type of character who knew what she wanted and was determined to get it. Young, smart, and beautiful, who loved her family. She seemed like a kind, but hard nosed girl, who wouldn’t take no for an answer, and fought for what she believed in. Chase seemed like the type of character who would do anything for those he cared about, and was strong, tough and determined. He was successful, had money, good looking, and strong. What a perfect combination for a book jam packed with action and suspense.
This book had me flipping through the pages wanting to read more and see what would happen next. I found myself reading one more chapter, then wanting to read another and another. Such a brilliant book!
I am thrilled that there will be more books to follow in this series. I was a huge fan of this book and I look forward to reading the next one and any subsequent ones in this series.
....
Thank you to Harlequin for gifting my a paperback copy of this book to read and share my review. All opinions are my own and are in no way influenced.
....
I loved this book. There was so much action and suspense going on, there was never a dull moment in the book. A perfect combination of action, suspense, intrigue, twists, turns and even some romance, this book was a fantastic read!
I enjoyed reading about the two main characters, Harper and Chase. Harper seemed the type of character who knew what she wanted and was determined to get it. Young, smart, and beautiful, who loved her family. She seemed like a kind, but hard nosed girl, who wouldn’t take no for an answer, and fought for what she believed in. Chase seemed like the type of character who would do anything for those he cared about, and was strong, tough and determined. He was successful, had money, good looking, and strong. What a perfect combination for a book jam packed with action and suspense.
This book had me flipping through the pages wanting to read more and see what would happen next. I found myself reading one more chapter, then wanting to read another and another. Such a brilliant book!
I am thrilled that there will be more books to follow in this series. I was a huge fan of this book and I look forward to reading the next one and any subsequent ones in this series.
January 23, 2019
I thought The Conspiracy was a great book :) It had lots of suspense and action, plus some hot and steamy romance! All the characters were great and the story line was really interesting. Definitely looking forward to reading more the Maximum Security Series.
January 26, 2019
I received this ARC book from Harlequin Publicity Team for honest Review.
What a great thrill and suspense it was to read. What a great psychological thrill! This novel had everything in it. The thrill, the suspense, the psychological, romance and the twist is crazy. This novel will keep you thinking and guessing. When you think you right, well let me just say that you might be wrong. This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! I couldn't believe what I was reading. If had me in shock. Every page, every chapter was a page turner. I couldn't believe my eyes what I was reading. I highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. It will surprise you in every way.
The storyline was very good!
The theme and setting was well put together. The characters was well put together in the story.
This story will have in a rollercoaster with all the spooky and secrets. Was so well put in the story.
Everything all in one book.
It was just perfect!
I highly recommend everybody get this and read it.
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. What a Rollercoaster! The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel would have you guess and thinking all the way to the end. What a great thrill and suspense. I love a great suspense that would have me think and guessing. This novel did just that to me. To the point that am wrong. When the ending comes am on shock. I wouldn't of never believe or guess. Like OMG!
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
I received a free copy of THE CONSPIRACY (Book 1 of Maximum Security) by Kat Martin in exchange for an honest review.
Harper Winston is worried about her brother. Though troubled in the past, Michael has reinvented himself. When Michael goes on a Caribbean vacation and misses a check-in, everyone but Harper attributes it to Michael sliding back into old habits. Harper, alone in her concern, approaches an old college friend of her brother’s for help. The old friend is Chase Garrett who works for his family’s security and investigation firm, Maximum Security. Chase had previously cut Michael out of his life because of Michael’s troubles, so he’s one of the skeptics, but he’s willing to look into things for the sake of the past relationship. As Harper and Chase track Michael’s trail, their attraction to each other flares.
I liked this book. It had lots of action, and the wrap-up of the Michael story line was just the beginning of the tale. If you like intrigue and action with your romance, you’ll like this novel.
What a great thrill and suspense it was to read. What a great psychological thrill! This novel had everything in it. The thrill, the suspense, the psychological, romance and the twist is crazy. This novel will keep you thinking and guessing. When you think you right, well let me just say that you might be wrong. This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! I couldn't believe what I was reading. If had me in shock. Every page, every chapter was a page turner. I couldn't believe my eyes what I was reading. I highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. It will surprise you in every way.
The storyline was very good!
The theme and setting was well put together. The characters was well put together in the story.
This story will have in a rollercoaster with all the spooky and secrets. Was so well put in the story.
Everything all in one book.
It was just perfect!
I highly recommend everybody get this and read it.
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. What a Rollercoaster! The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel would have you guess and thinking all the way to the end. What a great thrill and suspense. I love a great suspense that would have me think and guessing. This novel did just that to me. To the point that am wrong. When the ending comes am on shock. I wouldn't of never believe or guess. Like OMG!
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
I received a free copy of THE CONSPIRACY (Book 1 of Maximum Security) by Kat Martin in exchange for an honest review.
Harper Winston is worried about her brother. Though troubled in the past, Michael has reinvented himself. When Michael goes on a Caribbean vacation and misses a check-in, everyone but Harper attributes it to Michael sliding back into old habits. Harper, alone in her concern, approaches an old college friend of her brother’s for help. The old friend is Chase Garrett who works for his family’s security and investigation firm, Maximum Security. Chase had previously cut Michael out of his life because of Michael’s troubles, so he’s one of the skeptics, but he’s willing to look into things for the sake of the past relationship. As Harper and Chase track Michael’s trail, their attraction to each other flares.
I liked this book. It had lots of action, and the wrap-up of the Michael story line was just the beginning of the tale. If you like intrigue and action with your romance, you’ll like this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2019
Interesting twists and turns....good storyline
May 10, 2021
Willful ignorance can bring only a short amount of bliss. Harper Winston bursts back into Chase's life again. No longer just his best friend's little sister, she is a successful business woman looking for help. She is sure her brother Michael is in trouble and she has nowhere else to turn. She went to her father who assured her that her brother is just offline for a bit. She knows better and thankfully, her tight relationship with him, saves him.
Ms. Martin kicks off this new series with a strong cast of characters and a solid plot. She's upping her game in writing romantic suspense with more intrigue and danger. The characters are well designed with just enough flaw to make them human and relate-able. Harper may come across as a bit naïve with lack of knowledge about her father's criminal activities. She is still a practical woman who is determined to save her missing brother. Chase, her love interest, is a stereotypical alpha male with law enforcement type background. He's dependable and more importantly, he has family and friends who are deadly and can bring in the fire power when necessary. This story is a lovely blend of romance and action. I tend to lean toward more action paced story lines. This one contained everything I hoped for and more. The reveals in this story are not shocking, or I should say, I anticipated the reveals as Ms. Martin drops hints along the way.
I enjoyed the fast pace of this tale and read it all in one sitting. It is a page turner which reaches to a satisfying conclusion. It does hook a reader in to want to read more about the brothers in this new series. Can't wait to read Harper's brother, Michael's story. It will be interesting to see which team members of Maximum Security will receive their own story. Recommended to romantic suspense readers who like strong characters with second chance love themes.
*provided by NetGalley
Ms. Martin kicks off this new series with a strong cast of characters and a solid plot. She's upping her game in writing romantic suspense with more intrigue and danger. The characters are well designed with just enough flaw to make them human and relate-able. Harper may come across as a bit naïve with lack of knowledge about her father's criminal activities. She is still a practical woman who is determined to save her missing brother. Chase, her love interest, is a stereotypical alpha male with law enforcement type background. He's dependable and more importantly, he has family and friends who are deadly and can bring in the fire power when necessary. This story is a lovely blend of romance and action. I tend to lean toward more action paced story lines. This one contained everything I hoped for and more. The reveals in this story are not shocking, or I should say, I anticipated the reveals as Ms. Martin drops hints along the way.
I enjoyed the fast pace of this tale and read it all in one sitting. It is a page turner which reaches to a satisfying conclusion. It does hook a reader in to want to read more about the brothers in this new series. Can't wait to read Harper's brother, Michael's story. It will be interesting to see which team members of Maximum Security will receive their own story. Recommended to romantic suspense readers who like strong characters with second chance love themes.
*provided by NetGalley
February 9, 2019
[I received an arc from @harlequinpublicityteam for an honest review]
This is the first Kat Martin book I have ever read, so I didn't go into this with any expectations on that front. I do however love romantic suspense and in that genre this book fell flat for me.
The first half of the story was done well. The changing of point of views while Harper and Chase tried to find her missing brother keep the story moving and interesting. After that I felt like the author was just throwing things in to attempt plot twists that I feel didn't add excitement to the story. In the end it was just anticlimactic and highly predictable.
Let's talk characters. We received a good amount of point of views in the book and some of them were pointless. This is mostly because all the side characters, even Harper's brother, felt shallow and fake. Harper was the strongest character in my opinion and I had trouble even caring about her. Chase came across as arrogant and the tension between him and Harper from the get go seemed forced and unnecessary.
This is the first in Kat Martin's series about the men working at Chases' company Maximum Security. I think the idea is a good one but I just don't think the writing was successful. Not sure I would read more in this series.
This is the first Kat Martin book I have ever read, so I didn't go into this with any expectations on that front. I do however love romantic suspense and in that genre this book fell flat for me.
The first half of the story was done well. The changing of point of views while Harper and Chase tried to find her missing brother keep the story moving and interesting. After that I felt like the author was just throwing things in to attempt plot twists that I feel didn't add excitement to the story. In the end it was just anticlimactic and highly predictable.
Let's talk characters. We received a good amount of point of views in the book and some of them were pointless. This is mostly because all the side characters, even Harper's brother, felt shallow and fake. Harper was the strongest character in my opinion and I had trouble even caring about her. Chase came across as arrogant and the tension between him and Harper from the get go seemed forced and unnecessary.
This is the first in Kat Martin's series about the men working at Chases' company Maximum Security. I think the idea is a good one but I just don't think the writing was successful. Not sure I would read more in this series.
January 22, 2019
The Conspiracy by Kat Martin
Maximum Security #1
Great introduction to what will no doubt be a wonderful suspense packed romantic thrill ride provided book by book. In book one we meet the Garrett brothers, find out a bit about them and what they do, learn about Maximum Security (one of the businesses of the Garrett brothers) and are introduced to a number of people that may show up in future books of the series. That said...THIS book is about Chase Garrett and Harper Winston.
Harper’s brother Michael has not checked in for a long enough time that she is worried and the person she feels most likely to help her find him is Garrett. So, she approaches him and in the first portion of the book the two head off together to follow the trail and try to find out what is what. This section is filled with suspense and action and seems to conclude only to have a twist appear that leads the story on to another story line that is still related to the reason Michael disappeared in the first place.
Back in the USA again the story continues with Harper in danger and potential romance happening between Harper and Chase although the two do have some questions about whether or not they should pursue a relationship. And...I don’t want to give anything away so will say there was some yes-no-maybe going on but both really do like one another so it is more than likely they will get their HEA.
In addition to the main thread of this story there are a few Maximum Security jobs undertaken that give an idea of what types of stories might occur in future books of the series. Maximum Security provides body guards, does private investigative work, seeks the lost and runaways, coordinates with police and other law enforcement bodies, does bail bond enforcement and no doubt other things, too. The men that work for the firm are many and hunky and worth thinking about and no doubt will get books as the series progresses.
There was a lot going on and in many ways this is more a romantic suspense fantasy than reality story. Why? Well...humans are just that and not superheroes but then...when you pick up fiction you have to leave reality behind...at least a bit.
* Did I enjoy this book? Yes
* Do I want to read more books in this series? Definitely...I mean...Hawk? Of COURSE I want to read his story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Maximum Security #1
Great introduction to what will no doubt be a wonderful suspense packed romantic thrill ride provided book by book. In book one we meet the Garrett brothers, find out a bit about them and what they do, learn about Maximum Security (one of the businesses of the Garrett brothers) and are introduced to a number of people that may show up in future books of the series. That said...THIS book is about Chase Garrett and Harper Winston.
Harper’s brother Michael has not checked in for a long enough time that she is worried and the person she feels most likely to help her find him is Garrett. So, she approaches him and in the first portion of the book the two head off together to follow the trail and try to find out what is what. This section is filled with suspense and action and seems to conclude only to have a twist appear that leads the story on to another story line that is still related to the reason Michael disappeared in the first place.
Back in the USA again the story continues with Harper in danger and potential romance happening between Harper and Chase although the two do have some questions about whether or not they should pursue a relationship. And...I don’t want to give anything away so will say there was some yes-no-maybe going on but both really do like one another so it is more than likely they will get their HEA.
In addition to the main thread of this story there are a few Maximum Security jobs undertaken that give an idea of what types of stories might occur in future books of the series. Maximum Security provides body guards, does private investigative work, seeks the lost and runaways, coordinates with police and other law enforcement bodies, does bail bond enforcement and no doubt other things, too. The men that work for the firm are many and hunky and worth thinking about and no doubt will get books as the series progresses.
There was a lot going on and in many ways this is more a romantic suspense fantasy than reality story. Why? Well...humans are just that and not superheroes but then...when you pick up fiction you have to leave reality behind...at least a bit.
* Did I enjoy this book? Yes
* Do I want to read more books in this series? Definitely...I mean...Hawk? Of COURSE I want to read his story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
January 15, 2019
Harper was a fabulous female lead. She made a name for herself apart from her filthy rich father and has became very successful. She is willing to fight for those she loves and doesn't give up easily.
And it is with that mentality that the story starts. Harper's brother is missing and she needs help finding him. She contracts Chase for the job.
Chase was a good character too, but I didn't like him all the time. He was a bit of a self-righteous prick. Not in a broody alpha male sort of way - which I often like - but rather in an arrogant fashion. He wouldn't have a relationship with Harper because of who her father was, not even friendship.
In the end he gives in and tries to fight for her and I kind of forgave him for being a prick. But rightly so, Harper doesn't forgive immediately.
The mystery and suspense side of it was ok. The first half of the book is about her brother being taken and I liked the way the story unfolded. There were a few chapters told from Harper's brother's POV and I thought that was clever. Made us connect with all the characters involved and gave us a little glimpse into what was going on all around. The second half of the book focuses on Harper and the man that are after her. I didn't like that as much. It was almost as if this was two books in one.
The secondary characters were fine. There is none really that stood out for me.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. But I find that romantic suspense is often too predictable. Don't get me wrong, every good romance is somewhat predictable, specially if you are into HEAs- which I am. But when you can tell every twist and turn before it happens the story becomes a tab boring. As a teen I would only read mysteries and suspense, I loved it. And although I still like it on occasion, this book reminded me why I stopped reading them, I find them too predictable.
And it is with that mentality that the story starts. Harper's brother is missing and she needs help finding him. She contracts Chase for the job.
Chase was a good character too, but I didn't like him all the time. He was a bit of a self-righteous prick. Not in a broody alpha male sort of way - which I often like - but rather in an arrogant fashion. He wouldn't have a relationship with Harper because of who her father was, not even friendship.
In the end he gives in and tries to fight for her and I kind of forgave him for being a prick. But rightly so, Harper doesn't forgive immediately.
The mystery and suspense side of it was ok. The first half of the book is about her brother being taken and I liked the way the story unfolded. There were a few chapters told from Harper's brother's POV and I thought that was clever. Made us connect with all the characters involved and gave us a little glimpse into what was going on all around. The second half of the book focuses on Harper and the man that are after her. I didn't like that as much. It was almost as if this was two books in one.
The secondary characters were fine. There is none really that stood out for me.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. But I find that romantic suspense is often too predictable. Don't get me wrong, every good romance is somewhat predictable, specially if you are into HEAs- which I am. But when you can tell every twist and turn before it happens the story becomes a tab boring. As a teen I would only read mysteries and suspense, I loved it. And although I still like it on occasion, this book reminded me why I stopped reading them, I find them too predictable.
February 8, 2022
I picked this because so many of the reviews said, “too much action/suspense, not enough romance”. Well, that’s exactly how I like my romantic suspense! I’m also a big fan of the Brother’s Best Friend/Best Friend’s Sister trope.
Harper contacts Chase to help her find her missing brother. This turns into a rescue and then an entire web of information begins to unfold. Harper’s father isn’t who she thought he was. His dealings have brought danger to his children. Chase, his siblings, and the rest of Maximim Security step in to uncover the source and protect the Winston children.
There were times where the romance (specifically a few sex scenes) happened at awkward times in relation to everything else going on. Also, there was an incident at the very, very end of the book that just came out of nowhere. Overall though, I enjoyed it.
I’m looking forward to the next book, The Deception.
Narration:
I enjoyed Ryan Turner’s main narration, voices and accents. For some reason I can’t pinpoint he didn’t wow me in this book. I’d love to check out other works of his and see if it was just not meshing with this author/genre for me.
Harper contacts Chase to help her find her missing brother. This turns into a rescue and then an entire web of information begins to unfold. Harper’s father isn’t who she thought he was. His dealings have brought danger to his children. Chase, his siblings, and the rest of Maximim Security step in to uncover the source and protect the Winston children.
There were times where the romance (specifically a few sex scenes) happened at awkward times in relation to everything else going on. Also, there was an incident at the very, very end of the book that just came out of nowhere. Overall though, I enjoyed it.
I’m looking forward to the next book, The Deception.
Narration:
I enjoyed Ryan Turner’s main narration, voices and accents. For some reason I can’t pinpoint he didn’t wow me in this book. I’d love to check out other works of his and see if it was just not meshing with this author/genre for me.
February 17, 2019
Harper Winston's brother Michael has disappeared. He was planning to sail the Caribbean but remained in close contact with Harper. After a few days of non-contact, Harper knows something is wrong. However, the Coast Guard cannot find any sign of Michael, so Harper turns to his best friend, Chase Garrett, for help. As Chase is the owner of a firm called Maximum Security, which includes private investigations and the like, he is the perfect man for the job.
Out of respect for his best friend Michael, Chase agrees to help Harper. Despite being good friends, Chase is convinced that Michael's father is involved in criminal activities. From the outset, however, Chase might have to fight his growing attraction to Harper. Chase knows that in no way could anything good come from this, especially since he and her father are at opposite ends of the law.
The danger might have started off with Michael's disappearance, however, both Harper and Chase are in danger as well. This is for very different reasons. The aforementioned danger, as well as intrigue and jaw-dropping action are all backdrops to a story that also includes the developing romance budding between Chase and Harper.
Beyond that, there is the lovely descriptions of the background while Chase and Harper are searching for Michael. If you enjoy reading incredible dramatic and mysterious stories, filled with things such as nonstop action, with the added benefit of an intense romance, then The Conspiracy is the perfect book for you. This is especially so because the story is full of strong characters. Quite naturally, I was drawn to Chase and Harper, but there were others equally compelling. Something important to mention is that Michael was eventually found, but there was a lot of story yet to be told.
This is certainly an engaging read, one that most readers will likely grab a hold of with both hands. I find it utterly exciting that this is the first book in a new series. I definitely look forward to reading much more by the extremely talented Kat Martin and cannot wait to see whose story is next.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to Edelweiss for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Out of respect for his best friend Michael, Chase agrees to help Harper. Despite being good friends, Chase is convinced that Michael's father is involved in criminal activities. From the outset, however, Chase might have to fight his growing attraction to Harper. Chase knows that in no way could anything good come from this, especially since he and her father are at opposite ends of the law.
The danger might have started off with Michael's disappearance, however, both Harper and Chase are in danger as well. This is for very different reasons. The aforementioned danger, as well as intrigue and jaw-dropping action are all backdrops to a story that also includes the developing romance budding between Chase and Harper.
Beyond that, there is the lovely descriptions of the background while Chase and Harper are searching for Michael. If you enjoy reading incredible dramatic and mysterious stories, filled with things such as nonstop action, with the added benefit of an intense romance, then The Conspiracy is the perfect book for you. This is especially so because the story is full of strong characters. Quite naturally, I was drawn to Chase and Harper, but there were others equally compelling. Something important to mention is that Michael was eventually found, but there was a lot of story yet to be told.
This is certainly an engaging read, one that most readers will likely grab a hold of with both hands. I find it utterly exciting that this is the first book in a new series. I definitely look forward to reading much more by the extremely talented Kat Martin and cannot wait to see whose story is next.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to Edelweiss for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 3, 2023
I love a bit of adventure in my romantic suspense, and this one started off interesting enough, but quickly fizzled out. The last 25% or so were so incredibly dull that I found myself skimming.
This is my first Kat Martin (I think I may have DNFed one of her books last year but I'm not sure), and idk if this is her usual style but The Conspiracy felt like it was written sometime in the 90s complete with a super macho hero, naïve heroine, an excessive amount of side characters and backstories, and endless pages describing clothes in details. I do enjoy the style of old school romance, but to me this book felt like a knockoff Judith McNaught.
This is my first Kat Martin (I think I may have DNFed one of her books last year but I'm not sure), and idk if this is her usual style but The Conspiracy felt like it was written sometime in the 90s complete with a super macho hero, naïve heroine, an excessive amount of side characters and backstories, and endless pages describing clothes in details. I do enjoy the style of old school romance, but to me this book felt like a knockoff Judith McNaught.
March 9, 2024
In general, this book covered the genre I like: bad guys, good guys, action, suspense, hardship (gotta love a march through the jungle under dire conditions), and romance. That said, the hero is very wealthy and the heroine is a fashion designer from a privileged background. Part of the entertainment for the reader is supposed to be the fancy dinners, expensive cars, and private jets. Meh. Doesn’t interest me. Also, the men in the story constantly referred to grown women as “girl” had me searching my mind in confusion, wondering if suddenly we had a character who was a pedophile. On the plus side, the brothers had a tight, real bond and the women had true friendship. I’ll keep reading the series, but for the reasons above, it won’t be a favorite. I read the ebook. 3/5
February 1, 2019
With fast-paced rough, tough, and deadly action and suspense and lust-filled romance, the new series by Kat Martin centering around the Maximum Security is introduced to the readers.
I'm a long time fan of the author, I especially liked the books from Alaska, the unforgiving nature as part of the romantic suspense giving it another dimension. I liked The Conspiracy, even enjoyed the second half of it immensely, it was entertaining and engaging with the unpredictable suspense and savage scenes where the action is up close, and personal combat where no one is safe. I do have some conflicting thoughts about some things, and I have been rewriting this review now too many times.
The book has multiple of sub-storylines, even a secondary romance happening on the sidelines. The point of view changes from the protagonists to the culprits to the secondary characters and so on. Yes, that kind of storytelling gives a well-rounded view of things happening, yet it can also be a bit chaotic at times as well and take away from the intensity of the main focus.
The romance between Harper Winston and Chase Garrett was intriguing, a former best friend's little sister type of attraction in between them. In the first half of the book, the lust-filled sexual thoughts didn't feel truly natural, instead, those inner monologues came off even a bit awkward at times. (Now, I read an e-arc from NetGalley, so there might have been more editing after that copy was released). Chase is lusting after Harper's body, but he is not fond of her family and has no plans to have any kind of relationship with her. There are some things said and mentioned at the beginning about Harper's and Chase's current and past relationships that were a bit cringe-worthy, yet that kind of mentality is dropped soon after, and (thankfully) there's no follow up on those issues either.
The first half of the book it felt at times like the author was searching for an edgier way to write, filling the thoughts of the protagonists with erotic type longing, that didn't quite feel fitting in. There's even a scene at the half point that nearly had me dropping the whole book, yet I'm glad I didn't since things smooth out in the second half, and really picks up, the suspense being intense with twists in the plot, and revenge been sought from the past actions.
The Conspiracy introduces the main characters of the new series. I liked the bond between the Garrett brothers, their love and support of each other is a palpable force in the story, saving the day, and lives, several times. The exciting life Garrett's are living, and their connections to the law enforcement enticed my mind and I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Druglords, kidnappings, fighting for the justice, and family drama invite the readers to the alluring world of the Maximum Security, yet it is the character and reputation of the Garretts and the seductive, desire-filled romance that will make me want to come back for more.
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
I'm a long time fan of the author, I especially liked the books from Alaska, the unforgiving nature as part of the romantic suspense giving it another dimension. I liked The Conspiracy, even enjoyed the second half of it immensely, it was entertaining and engaging with the unpredictable suspense and savage scenes where the action is up close, and personal combat where no one is safe. I do have some conflicting thoughts about some things, and I have been rewriting this review now too many times.
The book has multiple of sub-storylines, even a secondary romance happening on the sidelines. The point of view changes from the protagonists to the culprits to the secondary characters and so on. Yes, that kind of storytelling gives a well-rounded view of things happening, yet it can also be a bit chaotic at times as well and take away from the intensity of the main focus.
The romance between Harper Winston and Chase Garrett was intriguing, a former best friend's little sister type of attraction in between them. In the first half of the book, the lust-filled sexual thoughts didn't feel truly natural, instead, those inner monologues came off even a bit awkward at times. (Now, I read an e-arc from NetGalley, so there might have been more editing after that copy was released). Chase is lusting after Harper's body, but he is not fond of her family and has no plans to have any kind of relationship with her. There are some things said and mentioned at the beginning about Harper's and Chase's current and past relationships that were a bit cringe-worthy, yet that kind of mentality is dropped soon after, and (thankfully) there's no follow up on those issues either.
The first half of the book it felt at times like the author was searching for an edgier way to write, filling the thoughts of the protagonists with erotic type longing, that didn't quite feel fitting in. There's even a scene at the half point that nearly had me dropping the whole book, yet I'm glad I didn't since things smooth out in the second half, and really picks up, the suspense being intense with twists in the plot, and revenge been sought from the past actions.
The Conspiracy introduces the main characters of the new series. I liked the bond between the Garrett brothers, their love and support of each other is a palpable force in the story, saving the day, and lives, several times. The exciting life Garrett's are living, and their connections to the law enforcement enticed my mind and I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Druglords, kidnappings, fighting for the justice, and family drama invite the readers to the alluring world of the Maximum Security, yet it is the character and reputation of the Garretts and the seductive, desire-filled romance that will make me want to come back for more.
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
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