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He set out to help a fallen comrade, but instead revealed a ruthless crime.

Jaxon Cutter uncovers an inconceivable string of crimes against one of the city’s most vulnerable populations. The hunt to discover the truth pits him together with the untouchable Mia Kent, and what they discover is only the tip of the iceberg.

All the heart stopping suspense and heartwarming romance readers of Lori Ryan have come to expect! Fall in love with Jax and Mia today in the first of three new Sutton Capital romantic suspense novels from NY Times Bestselling Author, Lori Ryan.

Grab it for 2.99 during pre-order!

198 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2016

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Lori Ryan

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5 stars
157 (37%)
4 stars
140 (33%)
3 stars
101 (23%)
2 stars
19 (4%)
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6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Elizabeth Neal.
1,891 reviews154 followers
October 19, 2016
A chance meeting between Jaxon, an employee at Sutton Capital, and Leo, a homeless vet, led to an unlikely, though very much needed, friendship between the two. One day Leo asks Jax to mail something for him and Jax agrees, noticing two things. First, Leo didn't include his name or return address, which Jax added, and second, the woman, a Michaela Kent, has to be a relative in some way as she has the same last name as Leo.

Mia, an office manager for a law firm, knows right away who the envelope is from when she sees it's addressed to Michaela, but this time there is one difference...the name and return address that has never been there before. She takes this opportunity to visit him, to insist that he stop sending her money. She doesn't need it nor want it. What she had wanted since her dad left when she was three was to have him be an actual presence in her life, not just his financial support.

On her second trip to visit Leo, Mia is finally able to see and talk to him, though leaves heartbroken upon learning he didn't write his address on it, meaning he didn't want to be found, and being told to leave. She also meets his friend, Jax, an intense man that obviously cares for her Dad while at the same time shows concern for her over the obvious pain she's struggling with.

Shortly after deciding to visit her Dad yet again, at her Mom's urging to get the truth of why he left, Mia receives a phone call from Jax stating her Dad was admitted into the hospital. Unfortunately, soon after she and her Mom arrive, they're informed he didn't make it.

Even through his grief, Jax knows something isn't adding up and discovering Leo's apartment was broken into after his death, and his medications were taken, leads to questions being asked. Though the Dr. at the clinic had viable explanations, when presented with another death mirroring Leo's, Jax knows something isn't right. At the same time, Jax is also unprepared for the hold Mia seems to have over him. He can't stop thinking about her, wanting to make sure she's okay, while at the same time equally wanting to know her on a more intimate level.

As Jax and Mia give into the undeniable connection between them, they also explore every avenue possible for clues to the truth behind her Dad's death, as well as others who died from the same mysterious circumstances. But someone would prefer the truth remain a secret and will go to any lengths to ensure they do.

Will Jax and Mia uncover the identity of the person behind the deaths? Or will they only find one level of the problem, therefore leaving others to continue on with their agenda? Will Jax be able to protect Mia when someone decides to use her as a bargaining tool? Will Jax and Mia realize they belong together? Is their a HEA for them?

One-click now and follow along as these two, both struggling with parts of their past, realize that every step they've taken has led them to each other, to the love of their life, to their future.

Please keep in mind that while this is book eight in the Sutton Capital series, I was able to read it without feeling lost having not read the previous seven stories. Yes, prior characters and couples are mentioned, but the author does a good job of giving enough information to keep the story flowing, while peaking the reader's curiosity to have them wanting to read the earlier books in the series along with all future books. I'm already looking forward to the next release in November and plan on doing a series marathon to help me officially "meet" those from previous stories.

**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews134 followers
Want to Read
January 10, 2023
💝FREE on Amazon today (5/9/2018)!💝

Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
October 10, 2016
LOVED IT!! Perfect combination of romance and suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat, turning page after page. I was so glad to see one of my all time favorites series continue and the author definitely delivered with this one.

Jaxon Ray Cutter was a wonderful character. A man with power and strength but filled with kindness which he wasn't afraid to show to others. He may have been physically injured in combat but his spirit wasn't damaged. Mia Kent was a woman who had shut herself off from caring after her father abandoned her and her mother. The kindness and caring that Jax shows her helps crack some of the walls around her heart and eventually the whole story comes out. Before she really has a chance to get to know her father again he passes away. Something isn't right though and Jax and Mia are determined to find out exactly why he died. Hopefully Jax can keep Mia safe and get to the bottom of what's on.

This is a great read and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. I highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for Karen.
1,254 reviews51 followers
October 5, 2016
I was given the privilege of getting to read this early. I love this series and with every book I wonder where she is going to take us next and always love where we are taken.
I was thrilled when she added veterans to the series and love where she has gone with this one by adding a wounded warrior. Author does a great job of making you fall in love with the characters and just love the story
If you are a fan of the Sutton capital series you will love this book if you are a fan of good wounded warriors storie than you will love this book
1,086 reviews
July 31, 2020
Jax befriends a homeless vet, Leo, and then falls in love with Leo’s daughter Mia. There were things I liked about this book but there was definitely something missing. The story didnt end — which I absolutely hate.
Profile Image for Marissa Chavez.
1,412 reviews4 followers
January 29, 2020
Jax and Mia were awesome! I'm so glad they were there for each other when they both needed it. They for sure had me on the edge of my seat with the mystery they were solving. I was happy to see they got the ending they deserve. 💚
Profile Image for Zita.
874 reviews
October 16, 2016
A suspenseful mystery plus a sweet romance…

This is the eighth book in Sutton Capital series that can be read as a stand-alone.

Jaxon Cutter, a former FMF Corpsman is adapting to civilian life after an injury ended his career. He’s most comfortable around down to earth people like his colleagues at Sutton Capital who are mostly former servicemen like himself. Those outside of work he has a hard time dealing with except for the older homeless veteran he befriended. They clicked when they met, their relationship was symbiotic; they helped each other to heal in different ways. It was through this friendship that Jaxon trying to help in mailing a letter ended up meeting Mia, the veteran’s estranged daughter who he found himself attracted to, her manner intrigued him.

Mia Kent has a stable life with a good job but there is no passion, she leads a staid “safe” life. She has abandonment issues which makes her shun being close to people from having a father who left her and her mother. When she learns her father is alive she seeks him out to tell him she doesn’t need him and doesn’t care but she’s only lying to herself. Just as she’s found him and met his friend Jaxon who makes her feel emotions that scare her, her father dies from a heart attack leaving so many things unresolved for her and changing the path she’d set for her life.

Stunned that his friend died after receiving new medication, sensing something wasn’t right about his sudden death, Jaxon looks into the medical history of his friend, unknowingly setting off a chain reaction from those who want the truth kept hidden. As Jaxon seeks answers he connects with Mia on so many levels. He’s supportive of the grief she didn’t expect to feel and protective when things turn dangerous. Amid the growing investigation into the veteran’s death by Jaxon and friends as well as the police their romance slowly blossoms, it’s sweet yet sexy and unassumingly honest, these were two complex likable characters with relatable issues. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, part of the underlying story remains unresolved, and this reader assumes it will continue in the next book but Jaxon and Mia are left with an HEA. This was a most enjoyable read with a suspenseful plot and multiple points of view including the villains to keep things interesting.

An advanced reading copy was obtained from the author.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews24 followers
November 15, 2016
This had the perfect combination between suspense, romance and action that makes this a page turning story which keeps you on the edge not being able to put the book down. It was wonderful to see some old time favorites come back on the scene from past books. I found myself so invested in the story I couldn’t put it down until I was finished.

Mia doesn’t have much use for men she has closed herself off from matters of the heart after being abandoned by her father. It takes a strong man that is very caring with just enough time to break through her wall. It was a pleasure watching her wall crack and fall. Jax is a dream with his strength, support and caring ways he would weaken anyone women knees. I just adore him his injury doesn’t hold him back but adds so much more to his character.

My heart went out to Mia as she finally tells her story. It’s sad when you finally get to the point where you might be able to build something with your father he dies leaving you feeling worse than you did before. They feel something isn’t right with her fathers death and are very determined to find out just what happen to him.

The author really puts a lot into the story going into detail as she pulls you in keeping you hooked. I loved the many different characters and all the twists and turns they bring with them. Ms. Ryan is becoming fast one of my go to author. I know I will always find some thrills and excitement in each of her books with wonderful characters and delightful romance. I hope you will give this author a try and pick up this book. I can’t wait until the next one comes out.
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389 reviews20 followers
October 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I love the entire Sutton Capital series and this is a great addition to it. If you haven't read this series yet this is a great place to jump in as this book isn't too deeply entwined with the earlier books. As always this book is the perfect blend of sweet romance, hot sexy times and suspense for me. Jax and Mia have a bit of a rough start and they have a fair amount of issues to overcome but they really bring out the best in one another. I also loved that Jax is an amputee but the whole story wasn't just about that, in fact there were times I forgot he was an amputee until someone would happen to remind me. He's a very multifaceted character which is awesome. Mia was another great character, she has some issues stemming from her father leaving when she was young but again that's not all we learn about her and I loved how once she decided to go for it with Jax she was all in. The suspense in this book really keeps the pages turning and doesn't resolve in this story, it will continue into the next two books and it's really keeping me guessing! If you like a little suspense with your romance I highly recommend you give this one a try. I received an ARC of this book from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Crystal Yawn.
602 reviews3 followers
November 13, 2016
Hello cliff hanger! Gah can't wait to start the next book.
Cutthroat is a great addition to the Sutton Capitol series of books. We get new characters (Mia) and some old friends (Logan and Sam). This story stays out of the office and focuses on the mystery of the free clinic and its patients. Along with a budding relationship between Jay and Mia. It's packed full of crime and drama with enough romance to span multiple genre's. Ms. Ryan has done a wonderful job of researching police policy, how Vets live after military life and amputee .
Jax is my favorite kind of hero. He takes a licking and keeps jumping back up. He is also very caring of everyone from his wealthy friends to the homeless on the streets. He has an awesome sense of humor and doesn't take life so seriously he can't laugh at the little things.
Mia is a broken sole. She was abandoned as a child by her dad and still trying to piece it back together. It will be fun to see her grow in later books.
It's a great story that leaves you wanting more answers, more Jax!
467 reviews3 followers
September 9, 2019
Great Story

I received an arc for an honest review.So here goes. I loved it. It wasn't the norm for the Sutton series, but an interesting, exciting story. Reading the ins and outs of the mind of Jason and Mia. Finding themselves and about their friends,her father and mother.Meeting the way they did, and the cause of her father's death. Taking risks,working with Jarrod. So many twists and turns kept the story interesting and easy to follow.
My only criticism is, I wish it was longer, and I wish there was some of original Sutton Capital characters involved with more of updates and interlinking of the series.But there are 2 more books coming,so maybe we will see it then.
Great job Ms Ryan, you don't disappoint. Thank you.
Profile Image for Linda Dunn chilson.
337 reviews13 followers
October 6, 2016
I was given the privilege of reading an advance copy.
I have loved the Sutton Capitol Series from the beginning, Cutthroat is a wonderful addition. First you have to love Jax and Mia, they are perfect together. What a simple, beautiful relationship they have. While Mia had reason to mistrust men starting with her dad's disappearance from her life, she instinctively knows Jax is one of the good guys. I really enjoyed that Jax never fought his attraction to Mia.
I will warn this ends in a little bit of a cliffhanger, though you can read it as a stand-alone. You get your happily ever after but the mystery throughout the story carries on to the next book.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,279 reviews
October 23, 2016
I was very surprised to find that this book ended in a cliffhanger. I was a!so not happy. I would rather wait for all of the books to come out and read the entire story at one time.

I liked Jax and Mia as a couple. The mystery surrounding Mia's father was intriguing. I got the sense that there was another book coming involving Jarrod, the police detective, but, I didn't think it would end in a cliffhanger.

I guess I'm a little disappointed because an interesting book left me hanging.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
Profile Image for Dorel.
4,389 reviews39 followers
February 3, 2017
I loved this 8th book's story line. This book's story line was good & sad. I loved the chemistry in this story. I loved the hot & steamy scenes. My heart broke for Leo. I loved MIa's character. I loved Mia's toughness in this story. My heart broke for Mia. I loved Jax's character. I loved how Jax's protected Mia. I loved how Jax's looked for the homeless community. I loved how I could relate to Jax. I loved how this story gives readers insight on how our veterans & homeless community are treated. Awesome job Ms. Ryan, can't wait to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Glenda.
753 reviews2 followers
January 18, 2020
CLIFFHANGER!!!!!!
This was an almost DNF. I skipped parts.
Mia and Jaxon relationship too quick. Darla and Mia did stupid things too.
Profile Image for LilacBlue.
26 reviews
July 10, 2020
Easy read

Unremarkable characters. Book catered to a specific category of people (army fans). Repetitive narration.
Got it for free through kindle.
564 reviews4 followers
June 30, 2020
Cutthroat

For the action, drama, and mystery this book is a light weight. It is also incomplete by not thing up so the loose and was to who,why ,etc. I don't like books like that.
Profile Image for D Call.
666 reviews29 followers
June 3, 2020
Suspense with romance

This is a good blend of suspense and romance. The story's told from multiple points of view, not just the main couple. I can tell characters from another series are mildly involved, but it didn't inhibit my enjoying this story. The story sheds light on the plight of so many veterans and their families in a tasteful way, raising my awareness.

Characters are adequately developed, but aren't memorable. Setting is nonexistent.

Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: probably
Cliffhanger: the relationship ends with commitment, the drugs are still a problem
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS
Sex: 1 scene, 1 heavy petting, others implied
Language: 5 F words, 18 Lord's name in vain, 31 S words
Violence: threat of kidnapping or bodily harm, gunshot, assault ending in stitches, assault and kidnapping, big nasty fight with guns and metal sticks
Profile Image for Black Butterfly.
2,657 reviews39 followers
July 30, 2020

MY-O-MY, WHAT A YUMMY COVER, NOW THAT IS SOME MAJOR EYECANDY. I’M SUPPOSE TO BE REVIEWING THE CONTENTS OF THE BOOK BUT THE COVER IS PART OF IT. . .RIGHT? THIS HAS A LOT OF THINGS THAT ARE GOING ON EVERYDAY IN OUR COUNTRY. THE TREATMENT OF OUR VETERANS WHEN THEY LEAVE THE SERVICE, MAKES ME ANGRY HOW THEY ARE USED UNTIL THEY ARE USED UP AND NEED OUR HELP. NOT ENOUGH RESOURCES NOR CARE FOR OUR VETERANS WHEN THEY RETURN HOME. WHILE THEY WERE FIGHTING, THEY WERE HERO’S BUT WHEN THEY STOP, THEY ARE TREATED LIKE THEY’RE INVISIBLE. I ENJOYED THIS IT HAS GREAT CHARACTERS IN BELIEVABLE SITUATIONS THAT MADE ME LAUGH AND CRY. ;D
Profile Image for riana.
414 reviews
December 31, 2024
i’m now into light romantic suspense !!!

ngl i don’t remember anything about the romance but i do remember loving the suspense plot and wanting to know what happens next.

okay seeing the synopsis i remember now.

what i loved about this book is the awareness it brought about the homeless. i really delved deep into their society and how theyre so neglected.

i would say this wasn’t a bad book. it was just forgettable and didn’t really stand out (romantic plot). it did have a good combination of romance and suspense which i am starting to realize i’m in that era.

overall i’d say 3.5 stars
724 reviews5 followers
August 18, 2020
GOOD BOOK BUT CLIFFHANGER!😕😒🤔

I enjoyed this story. I liked all the characters and the storyline was very interesting.... The suspense and mystery, twists and turns were fast paced and the book was an easy read. The romance between Jax and Mia was sweet and sexy. I found the book entertaining and worth five stars, however, I do not care at all for cliffhangers so that was a bit off putting for me because we were left with an unfinished mystery.........😇
Profile Image for Cait M.
1,436 reviews11 followers
May 15, 2025
Part of Sutton Capital Intrigue Boxset.
Quick romantic suspense read.

Jax is a military veteran and amputee (lower leg). He has befriended an older vet, helping him get off the street and in turn getting some wisdom about life and moving forward after the military.

When Jax's friend dies under mysterious circumstances, Jax realises he may have become mixed up in an illegal drug trial, targeting and recruiting the disadvantaged.

Meanwhile, Jax falls for Mia his friend's estranged daughter, meeting her when she and her father briefly reconnect for the first time in years just days before his death.

The story is told from multiple POVs and is fast-paced. The overarching plot continues in the next book, but the MCs have their HEA here.

This book contains descriptive love scenes.
1,347 reviews5 followers
May 18, 2018
5+ Star's

I was so caught up in the story that I could not stop reading until the very end, this is a funny,steamy, suspenseful, romantic story that readers young at heart will enjoy, with wonderful strong characters both male and female.
2,240 reviews4 followers
September 1, 2020
Cutthroat (Sutton Capital Intrigue Book 1)

This book contains romance, intriguing plot, as well as compassion. Both Jax and Mia joined together romantically to find out what happened to Mia's dad, Leo. The journey was an interesting one. Can't wait to read more.
4,985 reviews11 followers
May 17, 2018
Okay

Was just an okay read. Characters were likeable enough but just seemed slow to engage and didn’t really conclude so guess author wants you to buy next one.
Profile Image for Carole thomas.
22 reviews
May 18, 2020
Lori

I liked this book, not as good as some of her books but still good, will try the next book
211 reviews
June 14, 2021
Good

It had some action. Some love scenes and the strong military guys!! But it definitely has no ending!! Its good
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews