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Badge and Bullets #3
With a Lover's Courage
Even though Max Donohue’s personal relationship with Bradley Danforth is finally on the right track, things with his work aren’t. Between dealing with a new captain and his chief dropping a bomb on his lap, Max’s old insecurities begin to creep in. But when a new development arises that complicates his case, Max finds himself trying to find the right balance of lover and protector.
With Peter Richmond behind bars, Bradley feels like he can breathe easier for the first time in months. Things with Max have finally progressed, and with the help of his coworkers and therapist, Bradley’s life is almost back to normal. But when he starts feeling like someone is watching him, Bradley can’t help but wonder if he’s let his guard down too soon.
After everything they’ve been through, can their relationship survive this latest hurdle, or will Max have to make a sacrifice for what he loves most?
With a Lover’s Courage is the third installment of the Badge and Bullets series featuring the same two characters, so they must be read in order. It is a suspenseful murder mystery that depicts detailed crimes, drug abuse, strong language, brief mentions of animal cruelty, and adult situations.
With Peter Richmond behind bars, Bradley feels like he can breathe easier for the first time in months. Things with Max have finally progressed, and with the help of his coworkers and therapist, Bradley’s life is almost back to normal. But when he starts feeling like someone is watching him, Bradley can’t help but wonder if he’s let his guard down too soon.
After everything they’ve been through, can their relationship survive this latest hurdle, or will Max have to make a sacrifice for what he loves most?
With a Lover’s Courage is the third installment of the Badge and Bullets series featuring the same two characters, so they must be read in order. It is a suspenseful murder mystery that depicts detailed crimes, drug abuse, strong language, brief mentions of animal cruelty, and adult situations.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2020
20 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 26, 2020
Another enjoyable story form Ms Cournoyer. Told from dual POV it finally focuses on a long awaited relationship between Max and Bradley and brings closure to a complicated murder case that brought them together. It's mildly suspenseful, a bit angsty, steamy and steadily paced. I liked how everything developed between two men - slow build up, cute and funny moments, as well as times when Max finally let his guard down and let Bradley in.
The case was not much suspenseful as it was very curious. The connection between the existing cold case and serial killer was well written and kept me interested till the end. I liked Max in his element investigating and detecting *pun intended* the why and how of it. I liked the secondary characters as well. They brought a bit of humor in otherwise serious story. Overall, this was a good solid read and I enjoyed it. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
The case was not much suspenseful as it was very curious. The connection between the existing cold case and serial killer was well written and kept me interested till the end. I liked Max in his element investigating and detecting *pun intended* the why and how of it. I liked the secondary characters as well. They brought a bit of humor in otherwise serious story. Overall, this was a good solid read and I enjoyed it. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
January 7, 2021
This will definitely not be a re-read for me in the future. The relationship is so stilted and all tell, and little show. Again, with the too stupid to live moments. The cast of bad guys is too convoluted and ridiculous, really.
January 27, 2020
I gotta say Miss Brittany, I almost had a few choice words for you in this one lol. All in good fun, though, because I love this series. But poor Bradley needs a break, babe lol. And why do I get the feeling, things may not be over? Kind of questionable at the end there. I hope there is another. I am in love with this series.
I love the slow burn between Max and Bradley. I love how they are working things out on their own. They know what they need to do and are doing what they can to fix it. Which, let me tell you, has not been easy for either one. Between Max being a cop and wanting to protect Bradley at all costs, Bradley has often felt more like a job than a boyfriend. And Bradley, with all he’s been through with these nutjobs, has a hard time trusting. But what I love about Bradley is that no matter how anxious he is, or what trouble he finds himself in, he still keeps his faith, trust and support in Max. And in this book, Max more than needs it. Max thought things were finally pretty well done with the men locked up from the last books. But when one of them ends up dead, the case brings out some things that are shocking. And the true reason behind a lot of things. Including why the killer was the way he was. And why things were hidden. But once again, things are circling around and in the end, they end up back in Bradley’s lap, and he is in danger once again. After feeling like he’s failed Bradley so many time already, he doesn’t know what he will do if he almost or does lose Bradley. Especially when he’s finally admitted how he really feels. But the pressure is adding up all around and Max just hopes he can get to everyone in time.
Dear heaven, poor Bradley can not catch a break. Just when he finally feels like he can breathe and not be so anxious, the old feelings are coming back and he’s justified in what he’s feeling when everything breaks open. But like I mentioned earlier, I love how he has Max. Max is trying so hard to do right by Bradley after he feels like he’s failed him so much. But what he doesn’t realize, is Bradley doesn’t feel he’s failed him. Max has saved him, more than once. They have a hard time with words and expressing themselves, especially Max. But what I love about Bradley, is how patient he is with Max. He knows how he is, and he accepts Max the way he is. Flaws, grumpiness and all. And they’ve learned each other enough, they know when something isn’t right with the other. They’ve let the slow burn come full circle and I was so happy to see it. They need each other. Max makes Bradley feel safe and loved, and Bradley brings out a side to Max that no one really sees. He gives him life again. Not just work.
I do hope there will be more to this series. I just hope Bradley gets a bit of a break if there is another lol. That boy. Shew. With all the changes I’ve seen coming in this book alone, I’m really hoping this series will continue on and bring more with it. It’s been a great one so far and if you guys haven’t read it, you are seriously missing out.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
I love the slow burn between Max and Bradley. I love how they are working things out on their own. They know what they need to do and are doing what they can to fix it. Which, let me tell you, has not been easy for either one. Between Max being a cop and wanting to protect Bradley at all costs, Bradley has often felt more like a job than a boyfriend. And Bradley, with all he’s been through with these nutjobs, has a hard time trusting. But what I love about Bradley is that no matter how anxious he is, or what trouble he finds himself in, he still keeps his faith, trust and support in Max. And in this book, Max more than needs it. Max thought things were finally pretty well done with the men locked up from the last books. But when one of them ends up dead, the case brings out some things that are shocking. And the true reason behind a lot of things. Including why the killer was the way he was. And why things were hidden. But once again, things are circling around and in the end, they end up back in Bradley’s lap, and he is in danger once again. After feeling like he’s failed Bradley so many time already, he doesn’t know what he will do if he almost or does lose Bradley. Especially when he’s finally admitted how he really feels. But the pressure is adding up all around and Max just hopes he can get to everyone in time.
Dear heaven, poor Bradley can not catch a break. Just when he finally feels like he can breathe and not be so anxious, the old feelings are coming back and he’s justified in what he’s feeling when everything breaks open. But like I mentioned earlier, I love how he has Max. Max is trying so hard to do right by Bradley after he feels like he’s failed him so much. But what he doesn’t realize, is Bradley doesn’t feel he’s failed him. Max has saved him, more than once. They have a hard time with words and expressing themselves, especially Max. But what I love about Bradley, is how patient he is with Max. He knows how he is, and he accepts Max the way he is. Flaws, grumpiness and all. And they’ve learned each other enough, they know when something isn’t right with the other. They’ve let the slow burn come full circle and I was so happy to see it. They need each other. Max makes Bradley feel safe and loved, and Bradley brings out a side to Max that no one really sees. He gives him life again. Not just work.
I do hope there will be more to this series. I just hope Bradley gets a bit of a break if there is another lol. That boy. Shew. With all the changes I’ve seen coming in this book alone, I’m really hoping this series will continue on and bring more with it. It’s been a great one so far and if you guys haven’t read it, you are seriously missing out.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
January 26, 2020
4.5 stars rounded to 5. This romantic suspense series is one of my favorites, and should definitely be read in order. Book 3 did not disappoint.
Max and Bradley’s relationship is still somewhat of a slow burn, but every step makes sense with them - both of them have good reasons to not trust others at this point, let alone jump wholeheartedly into being a couple. However, they balance each other and it’s obvious in this book (even to them - finally!) how much they are better together. The secondary characters play more of a part in both the romance and the suspense this time out, adding the right amount of caring and sarcasm as needed. Everyone could use a Clayton and Maryjane in their corner when navigating new love *or* criminal threats, just saying. The ending was a bit rushed for me, but I can’t wait to see what happens next.
The combo of romance, suspense, and snark is, as expected, pretty much spot-on. Loved it.
Max and Bradley’s relationship is still somewhat of a slow burn, but every step makes sense with them - both of them have good reasons to not trust others at this point, let alone jump wholeheartedly into being a couple. However, they balance each other and it’s obvious in this book (even to them - finally!) how much they are better together. The secondary characters play more of a part in both the romance and the suspense this time out, adding the right amount of caring and sarcasm as needed. Everyone could use a Clayton and Maryjane in their corner when navigating new love *or* criminal threats, just saying. The ending was a bit rushed for me, but I can’t wait to see what happens next.
The combo of romance, suspense, and snark is, as expected, pretty much spot-on. Loved it.
January 27, 2020
This series keeps getting better. Bradley and Max are finally exploring their chemistry and it’s sizzling. I appreciate that in this book the focus isn’t so much geared on Bradley being the victim of a deranged killer. Don’t get me wrong I loved the first two books but it was nice to see him grow and evolve as a character. He’s truly a force for Max to reckon with. As for Max, he’s just such a deep and multi-layered character. You will see so many different emotions and attitudes from him in this book. He’s the best written character of all of Brittany’s books and it’s not just because I have a soft spot for grumpy and ornery men. Max has many sides and is a paradox that engages me. I also enjoyed the new side characters in these books and feel like they could have a spin off series or loosely affiliated stand alone novels set in the same world as Bullets and Badges.
My sincere hope is we see more of Max and Bradley in the coming year. I love these guys and feel like they have much more to share with us about their story.
My sincere hope is we see more of Max and Bradley in the coming year. I love these guys and feel like they have much more to share with us about their story.
January 28, 2020
With a Lover's Courage is a good continue of Max and Bradley's story that started in At a Stranger's Mercy.
This tale revolves around the danger that still exists, as Max tries to solve the ongoing crime while protecting Bradley. All this adds to their relationship, as they start to date and get physical together. The author handles the conflict that Max feels in a great manner.
The writing is great, flowing well, with an interesting storyline. Both characters are developed, with their connection growing stronger.
Full of suspense and mystery, heat and passion, romance and love, it's a lot of fun. Like the previous books in the series, there are plenty of twists and turns along the way.
With a Lover's Courage is perfect when you're in the mood for an M/M mystery, sprinkled with some romance.
January 27, 2020
I’m in love with Max and Bradley, these two are perfect in their imperfection. This series has given me everything that I want from a book; mystery, suspense, thrills, chills, emotion, love, sexual tension, sex, wonderful characters, and a kick ass story. This book is giving us the beginning of a relationship and the much needed release of sexual tension between Max and Bradley. While keeping with the theme and continuing the story line of the Badge and Bullets series this book is a tad bit lighter in the darkness than the first two, which I feel was necessary for both the story and the characters. I 100% recommend this book and the entire series......if you haven’t read the first two then read them NOW before you read this one.
January 28, 2020
What a story!!
Max & Bradley here in the 3rd installment...what a dynamic couple! Max is the grumpy, smart detective, but I am happy he shows his vulnerability and sweet, caring nature to Bradley. And even though Bradley has had more challenges than anyone should face, he doesn’t allow them to push him over the edge. He can give back as good as he gets & is brave in the attempt. As the case deepens around Bradley’s attackers and the plot thickens, the body count rises and I honestly don’t believe it’s over yet—-I really enjoy the slow burn that exploded in this book. I cannot wait for more!! Also, for Carmichael & Black?? Yes, please!!
*Challenge Accepted* let the next book commence 🙏🏿
Max & Bradley here in the 3rd installment...what a dynamic couple! Max is the grumpy, smart detective, but I am happy he shows his vulnerability and sweet, caring nature to Bradley. And even though Bradley has had more challenges than anyone should face, he doesn’t allow them to push him over the edge. He can give back as good as he gets & is brave in the attempt. As the case deepens around Bradley’s attackers and the plot thickens, the body count rises and I honestly don’t believe it’s over yet—-I really enjoy the slow burn that exploded in this book. I cannot wait for more!! Also, for Carmichael & Black?? Yes, please!!
*Challenge Accepted* let the next book commence 🙏🏿
February 5, 2020
4.5
This, to me, is a 4.5 stars.
While this isn't your typical romance, with it being a slowburn, and a murder mystery trilogy, so far that is, so that makes it unique in its own right. However, to me it loses the slow burn. Without a "time stamp" of how long they've been dating to the move in, and the rest, it felt rushed. Like it had to be done quickly to get to the juicy mystery. On that note, that also felt slightly rushed because there was nothing to instigate the stalking besides a few scenes here or there. Over all, it's an amazing series so far and I can't wait to see what's next, however I do hope she slows it a bit on the slow burn.
This, to me, is a 4.5 stars.
While this isn't your typical romance, with it being a slowburn, and a murder mystery trilogy, so far that is, so that makes it unique in its own right. However, to me it loses the slow burn. Without a "time stamp" of how long they've been dating to the move in, and the rest, it felt rushed. Like it had to be done quickly to get to the juicy mystery. On that note, that also felt slightly rushed because there was nothing to instigate the stalking besides a few scenes here or there. Over all, it's an amazing series so far and I can't wait to see what's next, however I do hope she slows it a bit on the slow burn.
February 10, 2020
ENJOYABLE BUT NEEDS A GOOD PROOFREADER
3.5..... I went ahead (but with some hesitation) and rounded to 4 stars.
I enjoyed this book but have to say that there were errors throughout that really did bother me and interrupt the flow of the story. Types of errors included extra words, misplaced words, using the wrong character’s name, etc. (Example: Bradley had driven to Max’s house in chapter 8. While there, it was stated more than once that they were on Bradley’s couch. — NO!! THEY WERE AT MAX’S HOUSE, so they were on MAX’S couch, not Bradley’s.) The errors could have easily been fixed with some editing/proofreading.
3.5..... I went ahead (but with some hesitation) and rounded to 4 stars.
I enjoyed this book but have to say that there were errors throughout that really did bother me and interrupt the flow of the story. Types of errors included extra words, misplaced words, using the wrong character’s name, etc. (Example: Bradley had driven to Max’s house in chapter 8. While there, it was stated more than once that they were on Bradley’s couch. — NO!! THEY WERE AT MAX’S HOUSE, so they were on MAX’S couch, not Bradley’s.) The errors could have easily been fixed with some editing/proofreading.
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January 29, 2020I love Max & Bradley
This is the 3rd book in the Badge and Bullets series. Max & Bradley are trying the dating thing. 😁 Max is still trying to find the other person that was involved in trying to kill Bradley..again, hurt Carmichael & killed Collins. When Peter gets murdered in prison, things get a little strange. Max has to talk to Hugo but, Hugo isn't talking. Max gets overprotective of Bradley, for a good reason, but Bradley's not happy about it. This whole case is like a huge puzzle, there's a map, a book of names & locations, & a old mystery of missing money from a bank robbery.
This is the 3rd book in the Badge and Bullets series. Max & Bradley are trying the dating thing. 😁 Max is still trying to find the other person that was involved in trying to kill Bradley..again, hurt Carmichael & killed Collins. When Peter gets murdered in prison, things get a little strange. Max has to talk to Hugo but, Hugo isn't talking. Max gets overprotective of Bradley, for a good reason, but Bradley's not happy about it. This whole case is like a huge puzzle, there's a map, a book of names & locations, & a old mystery of missing money from a bank robbery.
January 27, 2020
The third book on this amazing series closes a wonderful story packed with action, in between romance and love. Along the books we witnessed how Max and Bradley learned to trust each other, struggling for safety while solving a complex murder case. Falling for each other was a given and it was almost anticlimactic when they finally got together. I strongly recommend to read books 1 and 2 to fully enjoy (and understand) the plot. Loved the characters and loved how the story ended!!!!
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
January 28, 2020
5 Stars. Loved the book! Max melted my heart in this one, I had all the feels, loved him more! Bradley, love him of course, sweet as usual. Except in the bedroom... Wink wink. The book was going so good I knew it was to good to be true & knew something bad was creeping up, thank goodness it was over fast, phew. Ending I loved a lot. Hope there'll be more to come eventually on those two men, a wedding perhaps? I'm thinking & hoping Black & Carmichael will get a book maybe.? Well Done Brittany Cournoyer! I recommend this book but you have to read the other 2 in order first.
February 11, 2020
With a Lover's Courage!
Total Rating: 3.2 Stars out of 5
Rating Review Rollout:
(1) Blurb vs Story matchup: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(2) Character Development: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(3) Danger/Drama/Thrills/Chills: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(4) Editing/Proofreading: 2 🌟🌟
(5) Entertainment Value: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(6) Feeling the Words: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(7) Flow of the Story: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(8) Keeps my Attention: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(9) MC Appeal: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(10) MC Backstory: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(11) MC Chemistry: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(12) MC Love Connection: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(13) Plot Worthiness: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(14) Sexy Sex Scenes: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(15) Wrap Up of Loose Ends: 3 🌟🌟🌟
Total Rating: 3.2 Stars out of 5
Rating Review Rollout:
(1) Blurb vs Story matchup: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(2) Character Development: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(3) Danger/Drama/Thrills/Chills: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(4) Editing/Proofreading: 2 🌟🌟
(5) Entertainment Value: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(6) Feeling the Words: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(7) Flow of the Story: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(8) Keeps my Attention: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(9) MC Appeal: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(10) MC Backstory: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(11) MC Chemistry: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(12) MC Love Connection: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(13) Plot Worthiness: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(14) Sexy Sex Scenes: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(15) Wrap Up of Loose Ends: 3 🌟🌟🌟
July 29, 2020
I stumbled on this series and read all three books in two days. Just could not put it down. Each book resolved the key mystery but kept you intrigued for more. The romance between the key characters was slow and tortured because of the scars from their pasts but you just kept rooting for them. There was great suspense that was well crafted to keep you on the edge. I hope there will be more stories letting us see how these characters grow and maybe even add in a story for charmicheal and black. I am hooked.
January 29, 2020
As the relationship deepens between Max and Bradley (from books one and two) so increases the danger. Detective Max is determined to keep poor Bradley safe and I love him in this book. We finally get the explosion of passion that has been building between the characters and its glorious. I so admire the action and suspense the author is able to pack into her books and I can’t wait for whatever she brings us next.
May 8, 2022
I still really enjoyed the relationship progression in this book. There was a believable level of back and forth as they struggled to be what they wanted and needed to be for themselves and each other. This one was a bit of a struggle on the mystery side of things because it started to feel a little outlandish (though the fact that this was acknowledged by characters helped that fit in the narrative). Well worth reading, in my opinion as it was a nice way to round out the series.
January 27, 2020
This gets better and better! I love Bradley and Max! They are so perfect for each other and their chemistry is off the charts. Brittany Cournoyer brings the mystery, suspense and emotions that I just absolutely love. I couldn't put this book down. I definitely recommend reading this whole series it is absolutely amazing.
Read
January 29, 2020An exciting, romantic, action-packed, suspenseful, have you guessing book. Bradley And Max finally are able to talk and work out their feelings for one another. This is slow-burn, sexy, some angst, some funny moments, and very likable characters. It's a great ending to the series and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
January 27, 2020
Rollercoaster ride!
Poor Max and Bradley have been through it! This is the 3rd book in the series. This has a final resolution for the storyline that ran throughout all the books. I really enjoyed all the books and am happy that Max and Bradley have their HEA.
Poor Max and Bradley have been through it! This is the 3rd book in the series. This has a final resolution for the storyline that ran throughout all the books. I really enjoyed all the books and am happy that Max and Bradley have their HEA.
February 4, 2020
I loved this next part of what proves to be an addicting series! Next amazing pieces of a puzzle fall into place, emotions are high and the dynamics of the story really grip the reader's attention. Loved it!
November 17, 2020
Intriguing
A very intriguing, suspenseful read. The case Max was working that involved threats to his lover , Bradley got more weird as the story progressed. I enjoyed it very much and was glad to read the happy ending.
A very intriguing, suspenseful read. The case Max was working that involved threats to his lover , Bradley got more weird as the story progressed. I enjoyed it very much and was glad to read the happy ending.
January 31, 2020
Bradley is too much of a damsel in distress all the time for me to enjoy this.
February 29, 2020
Fails as police procedural, passes as entertainment.
March 15, 2020
What a ride!
Although I do feel there may be more coming in this series, this 3rd book wraps the mystery up very nicely! Highly recommended.
Although I do feel there may be more coming in this series, this 3rd book wraps the mystery up very nicely! Highly recommended.
May 15, 2020
Again another amazing installment in this series. I have loved the way the author has written a continuing story with Bradley and Max. I highly recommend this series and author.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews