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Cabrini Law #4

Reckless Conduct

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They've burned for each other for years.

Miguel Acosta grew up rough.


It took a terrible tragedy for him to break from one of the city’s toughest gangs. But the ghosts of his past are never far away. He’s done his best to keep his family away from the life that almost destroyed him, but when his nephew is accused of arson and murder, he’ll do whatever it takes to prove his innocence… even if that means going head-to-head with the most stubborn detective in the city.

Ray Travis has something to prove.

He’s spent his career working himself to the bone, but he can’t escape his reputation as a loose cannon. When the retired SWAT medic who saved his life years ago barges into his investigation, Ray can’t resist the chance to settle old debts. The spark between them has almost gone cold... but it ignites again with just one touch.

To catch a killer, there isn’t a rule Ray won’t break or a risk he won’t take.

Miguel swears he'll save Ray from himself.

Ray swears he won't take Miguel down with him.

He'd watch the city burn first.


This novel is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. It contains an HEA and no cliffhangers.

Book 1 – Risk Assessment
Book 2 – Murder Aforethought
Book 3 – Other than Honorable
Book 4 – Reckless Conduct

235 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 21, 2020

75 people are currently reading
245 people want to read

About the author

Parker St. John

19 books510 followers
Gay romance author living in the rainy Pacific Northwest who adores strong alpha men, rugged cowboys, blue collar smokeshows, mortal enemies and childhood friends who will make you SWOON when they fall in love!

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5 stars
243 (39%)
4 stars
271 (43%)
3 stars
84 (13%)
2 stars
16 (2%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Cadiva.
4,003 reviews440 followers
February 5, 2021
That was another absolute cracker from Parker

I'm running out of ways to explain just how much I love this series from Parker St John.

On the face of it, there's nothing new or unusual about these stories, but each one has that undeniable quality which makes them a success.

This fourth book gives us Miguel's story and it's a doozy given his former SWAT background.

I loved how much Ray needed Miguel's absolute care, even though he was scared to admit it.

Their shared history is one of trauma but also support and understanding.

Throw in sneak appearances from the rest of our happy couples and I was beaming all the way through this book.
Profile Image for Ariana  (mostly offline).
1,684 reviews97 followers
June 28, 2020
Solid 3,5 stars

Miguel’s a highly likeable character who’s been popping up in this series right from book 1.
He is a carer and a nurturer who loves to look after people, a genuinely nice guy and a happy soul.

Ray is just a mess, inside and out. Although he shines as a detective, he has a tendency to forget that he needs to eat and sleep and shouldn’t try to kill himself with some Rambo-type actions whilst on the job.
It’s obvious they’re made for each other, just that Ray isn’t totally out and doesn’t want to invest into anything that involves feelings even vaguely.

I enjoyed this book, just as the previous ones, but the mystery plot is not the strongest, imo. The romance mainly consists of Miguel chipping away at Ray’s reluctance to have a relationship until he gives in. Something didn’t feel quite right about it all.

This is a clear 3,5 stars rating. I decided on a down rate from 4, simply because Miguel is such a babe! And it's nice that the author always includes the guys from the previous books in some form!
Profile Image for Gerbera_Reads.
1,698 reviews154 followers
April 21, 2020
The fourth book in Cabrini Law series features less known characters of Ray Travis and Miguel Acosta. Despite the connection both men forged during a pivotal moment in their lives years ago, Fate took them on different paths - Ray becoming one of the best but crankiest detectives on police force while Miguel becoming the attorney and trying to make a difference at Cabrini Law Clinic. From adversaries to reluctant partners, from friends to lovers Miguel and Ray needed to learn each other, how to be together since both men were complicated and full of memories that weighed them down.

To the outside world Ray seems to be a daredevil, hardass detective who puts criminals away no matter what. But there is more to the man than his job. Ray is a study of contradictions - artist at heart who never felt good enough, so he gave the job that chose him his all while his life went by. He needed someone who would care for all his sharp angles, settle his reckless nature and help him slow down. Ray resisted so hard, but there was no stopping the force that was Miguel.

Miguel grew up in a big loving family but mistakes of his youth left scars that would always remind him where he came from. When his nephew seems to try and follow in his footsteps, he has to intervene and come face to face with the man who will not leave his head or his heart. I loved Miguel's steady presence in Ray's life, his kindness and the way he put everyone at ease.

The murder case got tangled by the minute. I liked that there were several suspects that made sense who were the culprits. The author showed that police investigation was not only glamour and wild chases across town but inordinate amount of paperwork and following up empty leads. I liked that Miguel saw right through Ray and knew what he needed despite denials and resistance. He saw the vulnerable man who needed someone to take control, to let him be and not think. Their dynamics was natural. Well, Ray needed a smack on the back of his head now and then, but he figured it out in the end. Another fast paced suspenseful story full of loyal friends, strong willed men falling head over heals in love and dangerous pursuits. I enjoyed it. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
Profile Image for ~nikki the recovering book addict.
1,248 reviews2 followers
April 24, 2020
4 reckless stars!

Sorry for the cheesy title 😆 I don’t think I awarded the stars recklessly. I liked this. Parker St John clocks another win. I’d say Miguel features the most out of all of them in all the other books so he’s definitely not a stranger. It was nice to finally see his story. Definitely one of my favourite characters in this series especially because of all his crazy antics 😂

The case was a little underwhelming but seeing as its not exactly the main story, I’d let that slide a little but still...slightly underwhelming. Wished we had more meat in it but welp, sometimes you can’t win everything eh.
Profile Image for Manfred.
800 reviews47 followers
July 23, 2020
Another great installment of this outstanding series. I really love every book and every story here, and that is amazing because normally I am not the biggest fan of cop or lawyer books, either they are boring for me or they are full of action and thus lacking in the romance part.
However, here the mix was perfect, once again I loved both main characters and I could absolutely relate to their feelings.
Perfect read and solid 4 stars for me!
Profile Image for Gustaf.
1,444 reviews197 followers
December 29, 2020
We finally got Miguels book and it was just as great as I thought it would be. Miguel has been a constant character through most of the books and he's always been stealing the show whenever he showed up. My expectations for this book was sky high and I didn't get disappointed. The suspense plot line took the backseat for the romance and banter between Miguel and Ray. I appreciated that since it's usually the other way around. I need more books in this series ASAP.

Profile Image for R.J..
Author 309 books2,714 followers
March 22, 2021
I loved all four Cabrini Law Novels from new to me author Parker St John.

I love the action/adventure part, I love the romances. My favorite was definitely book 4 - Reckless Conduct.
Profile Image for Ana  Nimity.
1,303 reviews63 followers
April 18, 2020
Romantic action-adeventure-suspense books are my catnip and Parker St John has quickly moved to the top of my list of must-read authors in this subgenre. I've loved every book in the Cabrini Law series. Reckless Conduct features combustible chemistry between enemies-to-lovers MCs, a slow-burn romance, and just the right balance between action and relationship. I wanted to devour the book while simultaneously dragging it out so that it wouldn't end too soon. You could read this book first, but don't. Seriously, just don't. Go to the first book and start there. They're SO. GOOD.
Profile Image for ML.
1,611 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2021
Not your typical romance

Ngl, Ray Travis was a VERY unlikeable character and did not deserve Miguel. I never warmed to him.

Also when you have been waiting for them to FINALLY have sex after 5 YEARS, having it off page almost made me stop reading this book UGH 😣

I did want to know the killer though.. so I kept going.
It was a bit anticlimactic. And wrapped up REALLY fast.
I wonder if Alex will get a book since the series IS named after his law firm. 🤔
Profile Image for Chase Coe.
1,078 reviews48 followers
January 14, 2025
A grumpy/sunshine DELIGHT!

I loooooved Miguel and Travis. GODDDD they were so perfect. Miguel’s sunshine was maaaade for Travis’s grumpy. And just witnessing Miguel loving Travis back to a healthy place was so so so special.

I was really hoping we’d get Alex’s book… or is that already a thing?
Profile Image for Poppcorn.
5 reviews
April 21, 2020
Love this Author but felt a bit left out

I have loved every book by this author so far. Generally, my only complaint would be that the books aren‘t long enough because you just cannot help wanting more. What I loved about Reckless Conduct is the build-up, the tension and the snarky banter between the MCs. The writing provides you with great characters whose chemistry makes this an enjoyable read. The point of contention (which is why 4 stars) that I had with the storyline is that, while the slow burning build up to a relationship (ca 50-60% of book) is amazing, but once Miguel and Ray start their romantic relationship I couldn’t help but feel left out.

Spoilers!

Let me explain:
1. I find when sex is part of a romance novel, it does/should add to the intimacy and speak to the needs these characters have. The first intimate moment is beautiful heat-of–the moment goodness in a car. Later on though: we don‘t get to read/feel the first time they have penetrative sex, there is mention of Miguel possibly bottoming but it‘s never addressed, the loss of control/ need factor for Ray during sex is not shown neither is sex used as a tool to explore his issues with vulnerability. Don‘t get me wrong the scenes we do get are HOT but their sexual relationship is not clear. I mean I know they want each other but compared to e.g. Lucas and Elliot their boundaries, wants, needs, preferences, turn-ons etc. are not established.

2. The way these characters are written is very intricate. They are characters with complex personalities. Both Ray and Miguel have issues that pose a significant resistance/reluctance to the idea of becoming romantically involved, which is why there is such a slow-burn ‚ getting to know each other feel’ for more than half the book, (which was done beautifully). But once they start to move into a romantic relationship, things become very rushed.
There was a point in the story where Ray thinks about how important Miguel is to him and curling up with him after a long day is the best part of his life..... and I went ˋhuhˋ did I miss something? Didn‘t they just have sex for the first? But apparently they had been dating ˋweekś by that point and I did not get to be a part of it. Like I didn‘t really get to see the deepening of their feelings and suddenly they have a big fight and are in love. I just felt super left out. Though the last few pages are sweet, the intricate build-up is not followed through properly.

These points do not retract from the fact that I liked this book. As I’ve said, I love this author and anything written is better than many other books have attempted. The characters are amazing and I’d love to see more of any of them including Ray and Miguel. The writing is excellent and compelling so that I read the book in one afternoon. I love the wittiness, funny banter and silliness most of all. There are amazing, beautiful as well as many many funny moments in this book.
My favorite scene is Miguel with his label maker...it’s a genuine laugh out loud moment.

I write reviews when i feel strongly for a book and there are things that I want to point out with hopes that this will benefit fellow readers or even the author.

Concluding I recommend this series to anyone who is a fan of beautiful M/M romance due to the amazingly written cast of characters and their stories. My honest opinion is that this is not the best book of the series but still very enjoyable.




Profile Image for Shelba.
2,698 reviews101 followers
January 2, 2021
Miguel and Ray have like 5+ years of history spend most of the book bickering, get together one day, and then weeks of their relationship happens off page. So, I felt a lack of connection on my end to them as a couple. I was hoping it would more wooing, as opposed to just seeing the end result of 5 years of pining. I also didn't quite care for Ray, but I'm still a bit bummed that Miguel and Reese weren't the pairing.

And the crime was OTT ridiculous at the end.

I think with this, it's time to move on from this series, as it's averaging pretty love for me.
Profile Image for Antisocial Recluse.
2,712 reviews
April 24, 2020
I liked Miguel okay

Didn’t like Ray too much, he was shown as negative and antagonistic for too long. I really couldn’t get into them as a couple very much. The investigation and suspense was good though. Maksim and Val’s story is still the one I like best.
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,538 reviews46 followers
April 24, 2020
From the first time Ray and Miguel meet, I could tell their relationship was gonna be a lot of fun with how full of light and charm Miguel is as opposed to Ray's sullen mood and lonely, guilty self. Their opposites work so well together and they have a great chemistry.
There's a great build up between them as they have barely seen each other since Miguel saved Ray's life several years previously, parting with a kiss. Now Miguel is defending his nephew against a possible murder charge whilst Ray works the case. Miguel worms his way onto a ride along and what follows is a lot of banter, stubbornness, testosterone and chemistry that build up until it combusts in the best way! Ray clearly needs someone to love him and soften out his rough edges whilst Miguel has so much love to give. They've been attracted to each other for years and the opportunity arises for time to be spent together, somewhat unwillingly by Ray, that shows each man even more of the other than they thought they knew.
Along with this brilliant relationship is a really great mystery that just evolves and gets bigger as you go through the story. As one detective says in the book, if things are happening then it's all the better as it's the stand still cases that are the worst. It grabbed my attention as an interesting plot that started off involving Miguel's nephew but only grew as the murder and mystery evolved.
Fantastic addition to this series. I've loved it from book one and highly recommend it overall. It's not necessary to read the books in order but friendships and relationships that build are present throughout so may help with those connections if you read in order.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,887 reviews212 followers
May 10, 2020


Ray's the grumpy detective who breaks all the rules to close his cases. Miguel is the attorney with the snarky mouth. They once had something, and that electric connection has not dimmed since they last saw each other. Now Miguel's back in Ray's life because his nephew has been accused of a crime. Will theirs be a second chance?



I have loved this series so much and I think this one is yet another solid entry. I especially like the contrast in character between Ray and Miguel, and how much they spark off each other, not just verbally but physically. Though the case this time around was not quite as suspenseful and action packed as the previous ones, the relationship is spot on and I adored both of these strong men.



ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Anabela.M..
959 reviews15 followers
April 21, 2020
Miguel Acosta has been a stable feature of the other three installments of this series and I was in love with him from the get go. Hard not to, because of his sunny disposition and good heart. The office clown, the one always trying to disperse tense moments with jokes, but also always the first to offer help even it meant jumping into dangerous situations. Of course I was excited about his own story, especially considering Miguel's love interst: snappy, jittery, sometimes reckless detective Ray Travis.

Getting to know Ray and Miguel better was amazing. Like all of this author's characters, they, too, were incredibly complex and layered. Miguel had no problem showing his feelings, his strengths and weaknesses, as opposed to Ray, who was worse than a hedgehog, hiding his soft heart with his prickly personality. That's why it was all the more beautiful to see him eventually let down his walls and trust Miguel enough to show vulnerability.

Everything about this book was awesome: the intriguing mystery, the romance between Ray and Miguel, both these men's family dynamics and work place shenanigans. I LOVED IT and I can't recommend it enough!
Profile Image for Devoted❤️Reader.
1,615 reviews31 followers
April 21, 2020
Love in the law

I’m with Miguel on rings. I definitely need visual proof but never give him a label maker. He lets the power go to his head. Although I do side with Travis on music as he has great taste. “You’re it for me. You always have been...” I’m crazy about Miguel and Ray. There’s just something about them together. They’re sweet, a whole lotta sexy and super smart. Add in the snark and sarcasm and it’s an irresistible combination. Their love and their relationship made my day.

I love diving into this world. The characters are family and never fail to put a huge smile on my face. I know that when I read about the CLC, or it’s adjacent friendships, I am going to end up laughing. Speaking of funny, the pranks throughout this book were extremely sneaky and a bit diabolical. I am jonesing for Alex’s book but am excited for the story that’s coming next. It’s gonna be a doozy, I can already tell. If you’re looking for lawyers you can fall in love with, you’ve found the right series.
Profile Image for Alexis.
841 reviews23 followers
February 10, 2025
genuinely so glad i gave this series another chance because YES GAWD. Miguel and Ray were everything omg. truly just fit so perfectly together. I loved how while they were in the same field at first now that they're not Miguel had to learn to let Ray take care of himself even though their first meeting was Miguel saving Ray.

"I hate it when you're around me. I can't get you out of my head," Ray whispered against his damp lips. "You drive me fucking crazy."

"Too late." Miguel laughed breathlessly. "You were crazy before I ever met you."


i mean!?!?!?!?!???!!!!!! i just love a character who is so allergic to commitment and scared of having real feelings but then meets ~the one~ and just has to hang on for the ride of being hit with emotions and unable to stop it.

I loved Ray's restless energy mixed with Miguel's good nature too. this was just very delightful and i hope that there will be a holiday novella with Miguel/Ray and Reese/Matthew like there was for the first two couples :)
Profile Image for Kirk.
357 reviews
April 20, 2020
Oh boy, this is such an outstanding series, I just want to get that out there first. If I was a newbie author just starting out, this is the quality of writing I’d aspire to. The storytelling here is phenomenal, and the depth of character we get for Miguel and Ray is so rich and complete. This is not just a romance, we're immersed into the lives and the worlds of these two men and you fully understand what makes them tick. I could feel Miguel’s need to love and cherish someone and at the same time I could appreciate why Ray was constantly pulling back and wanting to flee, nothing was a surprise here as I got to know these men so well. You know it’s not gonna be an easy road; they’ve got murders to solve, Miguel’s errant nephew to wrangle, Ray’s tumultuous relationship with his father and the ghost of his brother Miles, as well as the smouldering lust burning between them. This is an absolutely storming and faultless read and sits perfectly in one of the best series I’ve ever read.

ARC kindly provided by Gay Romance Reviews for an honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Dixiecowgirl.
1,437 reviews25 followers
April 22, 2020
Terrific!   Action, intrigue, passion and amazing characters create a compelling story!   I absolutely loved the characters, they were complex, intense, passionate, and easy to connect with emotionally for the reader.  The story-line was character driven and surprising.  The 'bad guy' was surprising and the MC's earned their way to happiness.  

Miguel and Ray have an amazing connection!   Their flaws and strengths complement each other and together they are stronger. They each are strong, and driven men and you can feel their connection. It was an emotional read and i found myself laughing and sometimes teary at moments as the story unfolded.  

This is book four of the Cabrini Law series and it can be read as a stand-alone.  I would however, recommend reading it in order for maximum enjoyment of the characters.  

I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review.  
Profile Image for Rynn Yumako.
585 reviews36 followers
December 20, 2020
This one was pretty much perfect. And to think I wasn't that excited about Miguel and Ray's story!

I can definitely see how much the author's writing style has improved since the first book in the series. And not just the style, but the way she spins her story, the way she builds up her characters. It was all just lovely.

I have a soft spot for the slightly overprotective and overly caring love interest, and Miguel, with his whole... everything, just checked all of those boxes for me. And Ray's nervous energy, his repressed feelings of love, his whole... everything, again, was just the perfect match for him.

The whole story was intriguing, the mystery - while not that complex - kept me guessing until the end, and the side characters brought more life into the whole thing.

And this book was so funny, you guys! There were so many lines where I laughed out loud.

So, yeah, I needed this. I can't wait for the next installment!
Profile Image for Candice.
2,955 reviews134 followers
May 1, 2020
Ask and you shall receive! LOVE LOVE LOVE Miguel. Ray, not so much. I don't know what Miguel saw in him, especially in the beginning. I don't get what he was trying to prove. One thing is for sure though...Miguel needs to show some tough love to Nando. If I were Miguel I would have beat his ass. Ray did grow on me though and I'm happy for them. I'm seriously interested in Alex now though. Where does he go everyday? Hmm... not until book 6 though :( I need more Elliott!!! Give me some Elliott cameos!
Profile Image for Elena.
416 reviews1 follower
April 19, 2025
I did think I was going to love this more than I ended up doing.

In theory, the book had everything I like in a story: complex flawed characters, a good love story, a dash of crime... But I failed to fully connect with the characters. Don't get me wrong, I loved Miguel and his sunny personality and seeing him get Ray out of his grumpy shell, but I just wasn't enamoured with the story.

I do believe this is a good story, just maybe not the most memorable for me, especially considering other Parker St. John romances.
Profile Image for Jenn (not Lily).
4,806 reviews27 followers
December 7, 2020
I love how Miguel supports Ray, realizing that Ray needs to do the job he loves with all his hell-bent for leather enthusiasm and no hesitation throwing himself into the fray without thought for his personal safety. Then afterwards, Miguel can take him home and treat Ray right. Oh yeah, and the scene with Ray and his Dad? Absolutely perfect! I can't wait to see the little glimpses of this pair in the next two stories, just like we've gotten little bits of the previous MCs.
Profile Image for MiaReadsMMBooks  .
426 reviews71 followers
April 27, 2020
If you still have not read this series, what on earth are you waiting for????

Miguel and Ray are great together, the push/pull off their relationship is wonderfully balanced and I really enjoyed the way they spark off of one another. Throw in the shadows of both of their pasts, family issues and the often hilarious snarky banter and you've got a great page-turner.

Parker St John always leaves you wanting more and I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series.

5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Annie.
1,715 reviews26 followers
April 29, 2020
3.5 stars- Hits and Misses

Reckless Conduct is the fourth standalone in the Cabrini Law series. Since meeting Miguel in the first book, I’ve been eagerly awaiting his story. For the most part I enjoyed the suspense and plot, although I didn’t find quite as action-packed as other books in the series. What I did love was the characters and banter, they were fun and vibrant, regularly bringing a smile to my face.

It’s always exciting when a book takes an altered path than you assumed, and I loved that Miguel was a completely different hero than I expected. So often the funny, lively characters who seem larger than life are painted as people only out for a quick hook-up with little to no commitments, until “the one” comes along and changes their perspective. I went in expecting more of the same, so it came as a welcome surprise when Miguel was openly looking for a serious relationship only. I also enjoyed learning the full backstory of Ray and Miguel’s interactions when they were both on the police force. For those who have read the series, you know there are hints and tension evident between these two in the other books, and I was happy to get some answers. And finally, the palpable chemistry and connection between Miguel and Ray was great. There was a satisfying slow burn throughout the start that I was eager to see develop. Unfortunately, once the two acknowledged their mutual attraction , things moved forward a little too quickly for my preferences and even worse it happened off page, leaving me thinking I missed a page or two and a major development. While that didn’t wholly undermine my enjoyment of the couple or the story, it did take away a bit and I ended Reckless Conduct feeling both happy and underwhelmed with some things. Added to a plotline that was a little less intense than some of the other books, I’d have to say that while I loved so many details about the story, it wasn’t my favorite. That said, I still would recommend this series and book to readers who like a little suspense and action without a ton of angst between main characters.

*eARC received via Gay Romance Reviews. The PA and author had no influence over this review*
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