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The Finnegan Connection #1
Hostage at Crystal Manor
Plunge back into heart-pounding drama with this thrilling romantic suspense from
New York Times
bestselling author Heather Graham.
Trust the enemy?
Desperate to escape her kidnappers, Kody Cameron can turn to only one man…and he’s holding a gun. Outnumbered and trapped in the deadly Everglades, she has little recourse, but something in this captor’s eyes makes her believe she can trust him. Does she dare to take the risk?
Undercover agent Nick Connolly has met Kody before and knows she might very well blow his cover. Though determined to maintain his facade, he can’t let Kody die. He won’t. And his decision to change his own rules of law and order are about to make all hell break loose.
First published as Law and Disorder in 2017.
Trust the enemy?
Desperate to escape her kidnappers, Kody Cameron can turn to only one man…and he’s holding a gun. Outnumbered and trapped in the deadly Everglades, she has little recourse, but something in this captor’s eyes makes her believe she can trust him. Does she dare to take the risk?
Undercover agent Nick Connolly has met Kody before and knows she might very well blow his cover. Though determined to maintain his facade, he can’t let Kody die. He won’t. And his decision to change his own rules of law and order are about to make all hell break loose.
First published as Law and Disorder in 2017.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2017
754 people are currently reading
1653 people want to read
About the author
Heather Graham
578 books6,877 followersAlso published as Heather Graham Pozzessere and Shannon Drake.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
January 6, 2017
1.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Kody Cameron is only at home helping at her family’s historical estate in Florida for a couple weeks before she returns to New York to continue working at a Pub and as a live actress. When masked men come in waving guns and demanding she tell them where a decades old treasure is hidden she thinks it's a joke, until the guns fire very real bullets.
Nick is undercover trying to capture a career criminal but he recognizes Kody right away as the woman in New York that he briefly saw but can't stop thinking about. With a little boy hidden away and new hostages to worry about, he can't put an immediate end to the criminal gang he's infiltrated plans.
Kody and Nick will have to fight criminals, the everglades, and their attraction if they want to stay alive.
First in the Finnegan Connection series, Law and Disorder starts us off with Kody and Nick. Kody works at Finnegan's pub and Nick is friends with Craig who dates Kieran Finnegan. The beginning thrusts many characters at you, a lot of side characters that only get their names mentioned and some that linger on; it was extremely overwhelming and gave the story a chaotic feel. While I very rarely mention editing mistakes in arc copies, from about 20-40%, our heroine's name frequently changed from Kody to Dakota and this made it even harder for me to keep everyone straight.
The plot has Nick working undercover trying to catch a career criminal. The gang wears masks and goes by old gangster names like Dillinger, Barrow, and Capone. I think there were 5 or 6 in the gang but the leader Dillinger and Barrow (Nick) are the only two really focused on while the rest weren't given enough life and more so clogged the story. Dillinger kidnaps a mayor's kid and hides him without telling his gang while they think they are just taking hostages at a historical site to look for a hidden treasure. Here is where the story is both interesting and overly convoluted. The author gives great history about this area in Florida and its mob background but kind of info dumps it before you have a chance to get to know the characters and become involved with the story. Dillinger's motivation and idea to have Kody find a hidden treasure that no one has found for decades and not even proven to exist was side-eye unbelievable and the shaky suspense foundation lead to disheveled and flaky actions by the characters.
Kody came off a bit foolish with her mouthing off and fighting a man with a gun; she was borderline TSTL. Nick's character came off more believable with trying to keep the situation under control and still work to capture the bad guys. With the author working in the mobster historical details, hostage situation, and treasure hunting, there was not a lot of room for romance. I never felt or saw why or how our couple fell in love; their connection was pretty non-existent for me.
This felt like a very rushed story where characters and fun historical snippets were thrown at me and story structure and character development were forgotten.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Kody Cameron is only at home helping at her family’s historical estate in Florida for a couple weeks before she returns to New York to continue working at a Pub and as a live actress. When masked men come in waving guns and demanding she tell them where a decades old treasure is hidden she thinks it's a joke, until the guns fire very real bullets.
Nick is undercover trying to capture a career criminal but he recognizes Kody right away as the woman in New York that he briefly saw but can't stop thinking about. With a little boy hidden away and new hostages to worry about, he can't put an immediate end to the criminal gang he's infiltrated plans.
Kody and Nick will have to fight criminals, the everglades, and their attraction if they want to stay alive.
First in the Finnegan Connection series, Law and Disorder starts us off with Kody and Nick. Kody works at Finnegan's pub and Nick is friends with Craig who dates Kieran Finnegan. The beginning thrusts many characters at you, a lot of side characters that only get their names mentioned and some that linger on; it was extremely overwhelming and gave the story a chaotic feel. While I very rarely mention editing mistakes in arc copies, from about 20-40%, our heroine's name frequently changed from Kody to Dakota and this made it even harder for me to keep everyone straight.
The plot has Nick working undercover trying to catch a career criminal. The gang wears masks and goes by old gangster names like Dillinger, Barrow, and Capone. I think there were 5 or 6 in the gang but the leader Dillinger and Barrow (Nick) are the only two really focused on while the rest weren't given enough life and more so clogged the story. Dillinger kidnaps a mayor's kid and hides him without telling his gang while they think they are just taking hostages at a historical site to look for a hidden treasure. Here is where the story is both interesting and overly convoluted. The author gives great history about this area in Florida and its mob background but kind of info dumps it before you have a chance to get to know the characters and become involved with the story. Dillinger's motivation and idea to have Kody find a hidden treasure that no one has found for decades and not even proven to exist was side-eye unbelievable and the shaky suspense foundation lead to disheveled and flaky actions by the characters.
Kody came off a bit foolish with her mouthing off and fighting a man with a gun; she was borderline TSTL. Nick's character came off more believable with trying to keep the situation under control and still work to capture the bad guys. With the author working in the mobster historical details, hostage situation, and treasure hunting, there was not a lot of room for romance. I never felt or saw why or how our couple fell in love; their connection was pretty non-existent for me.
This felt like a very rushed story where characters and fun historical snippets were thrown at me and story structure and character development were forgotten.
February 7, 2017
2.5 Stars
This is my first Heather Graham, but I don’t think it’s her best work judging by her wide fan base. I think the biggest problem was the villain didn’t come off as all that villainous. I never quite believed he would hurt Kody. The plot also seemed a bit farfetched, this criminal thought Kody could find treasure many experts and researchers have looked for without success?
Still, it was an entertaining, and at times suspenseful read, easy to finish fast. I enjoyed the romance, too. I think I’ll try another Heather Graham, since like I said, I don’t think Law and Order demonstrated her talents effectively. I’m always on the lookout for a new (to me) romantic suspense author, and I’ve seen high praise for her work. Anyone have a recommendation?
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Intrigue in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first Heather Graham, but I don’t think it’s her best work judging by her wide fan base. I think the biggest problem was the villain didn’t come off as all that villainous. I never quite believed he would hurt Kody. The plot also seemed a bit farfetched, this criminal thought Kody could find treasure many experts and researchers have looked for without success?
Still, it was an entertaining, and at times suspenseful read, easy to finish fast. I enjoyed the romance, too. I think I’ll try another Heather Graham, since like I said, I don’t think Law and Order demonstrated her talents effectively. I’m always on the lookout for a new (to me) romantic suspense author, and I’ve seen high praise for her work. Anyone have a recommendation?
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Intrigue in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2017
2.5 Stars
I have a confession to make. I have never read a Heather Graham book prior to this one and while I have heard of her books, I just never got to it. I think I have some on my ibook app waiting for me. So I was able to review this new book and I have to say I might have started with the wrong book.
Looking at all of the other reviews on her books, her review average is high! I was looking for an indepth, exciting read and this one just did not do it for me.
The plot was good but it did not bring the heart-pounding thrills I was hoping for and even the budding romance seemed lackluster and missing that special spark. There was a lot of history lessons in this story that caused me to skim over parts. Plus, several areas of the writing seemed disjointed and did not flow.
The beginning started off a bit rocky for me due to the strange thought process of the victim on the first page but by the ending it got a bit better.
Overall, it was an okay read. Nothing that sucked me in and begged me to keep reading. It was decent but not what I was expecting from seeing her other reviews
I have a confession to make. I have never read a Heather Graham book prior to this one and while I have heard of her books, I just never got to it. I think I have some on my ibook app waiting for me. So I was able to review this new book and I have to say I might have started with the wrong book.
Looking at all of the other reviews on her books, her review average is high! I was looking for an indepth, exciting read and this one just did not do it for me.
The plot was good but it did not bring the heart-pounding thrills I was hoping for and even the budding romance seemed lackluster and missing that special spark. There was a lot of history lessons in this story that caused me to skim over parts. Plus, several areas of the writing seemed disjointed and did not flow.
The beginning started off a bit rocky for me due to the strange thought process of the victim on the first page but by the ending it got a bit better.
Overall, it was an okay read. Nothing that sucked me in and begged me to keep reading. It was decent but not what I was expecting from seeing her other reviews
December 21, 2024
Law and Disorder by Heather Graham
Retitled Hostage at Crystal Palace. Finnegan Connection series #1. Harlequin Intrigue.
Wrong time, wrong place. Kody Cameron can’t believe she’s a hostage by a gun wielding crew on a boat in the Florida Everglades. The gunman are insisting that she find a so-called treasure left by a gangster decades in the past. She’ll take any opportunity to escape or mess up their plans. One voice sounds familiar. Is it someone she knows?
Undercover agent Nick Connelly is trying to save a kidnapped child, but he can’t let hostages die while he’s one of the masked gunmen. He’s met Kody in the past. Can he help get her and the other hostages free while still getting the information he needs to rescue the child? It’s a race between guns, alligators and freedom.
From zero to sixty in the first paragraph. Kody is strong and determined, calm and effective. Maybe a bit foolhardy too as she often talks back, putting herself at risk.
I’m intrigued by the live action play which doesn’t have anything to do with the overall story but reminds me that I take away something new from every book I read.
Retitled Hostage at Crystal Palace. Finnegan Connection series #1. Harlequin Intrigue.
Wrong time, wrong place. Kody Cameron can’t believe she’s a hostage by a gun wielding crew on a boat in the Florida Everglades. The gunman are insisting that she find a so-called treasure left by a gangster decades in the past. She’ll take any opportunity to escape or mess up their plans. One voice sounds familiar. Is it someone she knows?
Undercover agent Nick Connelly is trying to save a kidnapped child, but he can’t let hostages die while he’s one of the masked gunmen. He’s met Kody in the past. Can he help get her and the other hostages free while still getting the information he needs to rescue the child? It’s a race between guns, alligators and freedom.
From zero to sixty in the first paragraph. Kody is strong and determined, calm and effective. Maybe a bit foolhardy too as she often talks back, putting herself at risk.
I’m intrigued by the live action play which doesn’t have anything to do with the overall story but reminds me that I take away something new from every book I read.
March 29, 2020
Despite the fact that I really wanted to slap the crap out of the heroine most of the time, I enjoyed the book. The rest of the series is very good.
January 10, 2017
When a young woman’s journey home to help out her family, leaving her acting career behind, as well as her job at Finnegan’s Pub in New York, she never expected to be taken hostage in a robbery at the old estate and has no idea why anyone thinks there is anything of the kind of value that would even cause any interest. Of all of her captors, in outlaw masks, one seems to stand out as different, his eyes familiar and his demeanor was that of protector as opposed to villain.
Kody came home to Florida to help out, not to be forced to look for “treasure.” Nick is undercover to bring down a twisted, career criminal, but he never expected to find the woman who mesmerized him in New York at his friend’s pub. It is up to Nick to save the day, save the woman, save a hidden child and catch the bad guy, all while staying alive, himself. No one said his job would be easy and no one said he may have to save his heart at the same time.
Heather Graham is back with LAW AND DISORDER, another intriguing tale of suspense, romance and danger. As a veteran author in the romantic suspense genre, Ms. Graham has a high bar to hurdle every time she releases another great read. As one who has read many of her books I think maybe I expected more, or even too much! The plot is fabulous, the idea of clues to a long hidden secret in an old house filled with walls that you wish could talk is a great hook! I can’t say I was enamored of the main characters, though, Kody, while being the feisty type, goes a little beyond believable for me. Nick is a great acting villain, carefully straddling the line of gang follower and voice of reason. The other characters, especially the “gang” of robbers seemed almost like caricatures of bad guys in the wrong profession. While there is tons of action, it wasn’t a chaotic flow that fell into place easily. Again, maybe I have been kneeling at the altar of Heather Graham too long and have come to expect perfection in every book she writes. This one fell a little short and even the “small world” tag seemed to stretch things too far. Still Ms. Graham can write and knows her craft well, her past hits speak for her talent and I would never take her off my authors I love list!
I received an ARC edition from Harlequin Intrigue in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Finnegan Connection - Book 1
Publisher: Harlequin Intrigue (January 1, 2017)
Publication Date: January 17, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 256 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Kody came home to Florida to help out, not to be forced to look for “treasure.” Nick is undercover to bring down a twisted, career criminal, but he never expected to find the woman who mesmerized him in New York at his friend’s pub. It is up to Nick to save the day, save the woman, save a hidden child and catch the bad guy, all while staying alive, himself. No one said his job would be easy and no one said he may have to save his heart at the same time.
Heather Graham is back with LAW AND DISORDER, another intriguing tale of suspense, romance and danger. As a veteran author in the romantic suspense genre, Ms. Graham has a high bar to hurdle every time she releases another great read. As one who has read many of her books I think maybe I expected more, or even too much! The plot is fabulous, the idea of clues to a long hidden secret in an old house filled with walls that you wish could talk is a great hook! I can’t say I was enamored of the main characters, though, Kody, while being the feisty type, goes a little beyond believable for me. Nick is a great acting villain, carefully straddling the line of gang follower and voice of reason. The other characters, especially the “gang” of robbers seemed almost like caricatures of bad guys in the wrong profession. While there is tons of action, it wasn’t a chaotic flow that fell into place easily. Again, maybe I have been kneeling at the altar of Heather Graham too long and have come to expect perfection in every book she writes. This one fell a little short and even the “small world” tag seemed to stretch things too far. Still Ms. Graham can write and knows her craft well, her past hits speak for her talent and I would never take her off my authors I love list!
I received an ARC edition from Harlequin Intrigue in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Finnegan Connection - Book 1
Publisher: Harlequin Intrigue (January 1, 2017)
Publication Date: January 17, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 256 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 17, 2018
One of Heather Graham's strengths is making the setting of her books just as much as a character as the hero and heroine! Obviously, anything I know about the Everglades is from TV, movies, and books, but with a finely tuned, precise turn of her pen, she makes the place come alive, as if I were watching a movie! That was definitely a highlight here.
The plot has masked criminals taking Kody Cameron hostage, because the leader believes she can lead them to an old gangster's missing fortune, possibly buried somewhere in the Everglades. Lucky for Kody, one of the team members is actually Nick Connolly, an undercover FBI agent. They actually briefly crossed paths before, and something in her tells her she can trust him.
The action gets going right from the start, and is almost consistent until the end. It was an easy story to read. Alas, there were aspects that distracted me! Biggest of all is the thieves' motives. They're a bit thin. Why is the leader so intent on believing this treasure exists, and that Kody's the one who can lead him to it, when there's no concrete evidence that its existence is folklore or not? He certainly seems to go to enormous lengths and take enormous risks for an outcome that isn't 100% airtight.
Also, since Nick spends half the book in a mask, the romance just falls short of being convincing. The action element is too busy to really build anything believable between Kody and Nick. However, at least the story surrounding them was fast-paced! The only times it dragged was when we got one too many info dumps about what rooms looked like, or the history of the place.
What really took that extra star off for me was the appearance of FBI agent Jason Tiger, who is conveniently stationed in a convenient safe house in the Everglades, and can conveniently move around undetected and conveniently knows the Everglades like the back of his hand. How convenient! It lessened the suspense to a great degree, because his FBI superpowers left me without feeling our leads were in any real danger, because his FBI superpowers would always be there in the background for support. How convenient! His character really should have been nixed from the book!
I'm surprised to see Heather Graham writing for Intrigue, but at least it's a pleasant surprise! This appears to be the first in a series (groan), but there are no real storyline threads dangling at the end of this one, so I'm hoping the subsequent entries stand on their own.
The plot has masked criminals taking Kody Cameron hostage, because the leader believes she can lead them to an old gangster's missing fortune, possibly buried somewhere in the Everglades. Lucky for Kody, one of the team members is actually Nick Connolly, an undercover FBI agent. They actually briefly crossed paths before, and something in her tells her she can trust him.
The action gets going right from the start, and is almost consistent until the end. It was an easy story to read. Alas, there were aspects that distracted me! Biggest of all is the thieves' motives. They're a bit thin. Why is the leader so intent on believing this treasure exists, and that Kody's the one who can lead him to it, when there's no concrete evidence that its existence is folklore or not? He certainly seems to go to enormous lengths and take enormous risks for an outcome that isn't 100% airtight.
Also, since Nick spends half the book in a mask, the romance just falls short of being convincing. The action element is too busy to really build anything believable between Kody and Nick. However, at least the story surrounding them was fast-paced! The only times it dragged was when we got one too many info dumps about what rooms looked like, or the history of the place.
What really took that extra star off for me was the appearance of FBI agent Jason Tiger, who is conveniently stationed in a convenient safe house in the Everglades, and can conveniently move around undetected and conveniently knows the Everglades like the back of his hand. How convenient! It lessened the suspense to a great degree, because his FBI superpowers left me without feeling our leads were in any real danger, because his FBI superpowers would always be there in the background for support. How convenient! His character really should have been nixed from the book!
I'm surprised to see Heather Graham writing for Intrigue, but at least it's a pleasant surprise! This appears to be the first in a series (groan), but there are no real storyline threads dangling at the end of this one, so I'm hoping the subsequent entries stand on their own.
Want to read
June 27, 2017this is FREE via Barnes and Noble! they offer a FREE "serial read" monthly - releasing a chapter or so every day...pretty cool imho. :-)
March 20, 2017
Good book. Kody is home in Florida for a couple weeks before starting her new play in New York. She is stunned to be taken at gunpoint by a man in the mask of an old time gangster, and even more so to discover that her family's museum has been taken over by a gang of them. The leader of the gang is convinced that she knows where a decades old stash of jewels and money is, and wants her to lead them to it. Kody is scared, but determined to do what she must to protect the other hostages. Oddly enough, one of the gang seems to have the same intent, a man whose eyes seem strangely familiar.
Nick has been working undercover for about three weeks. He is with an FBI unit in New York who has been tracking "Dillinger" for months, trying to get the evidence they need to arrest him. Nick and Kody briefly encountered each other at a mutual friend's pub in New York. Nick is worried that Kody will recognize him and blow his cover.
That brief encounter had sparked an instant attraction. It was still there, though Kody was confused at first by the attraction she felt to a criminal. He was protective of them, and had moments when he was nice to her, but he was a criminal! If Nick hadn't been sent off for the undercover mission, he would have asked Kody out. He hasn't been able to get her out of his mind, but this isn't the way he wanted to meet her again. I liked the way that he appreciated her protectiveness for her friends and the intelligence with which she approached her situation. I enjoyed his fight to keep in character and not give in to the attraction. I loved Nick's quick action to ask her out once they were out of the swamp, and Kody's own pursuit of what she wanted. I liked their frank talk about how their careers have affected past relationships and what they want from this one. I loved the ending, with Kody having her big moment with friends and family there. Nick had his a little later, and I liked the hint of vulnerability there. I hope to see more of them in a later book.
The action is intense from the beginning as Dillinger and his people hold hostages to ensure that their demands are met. He is constantly on edge and making threats against Kody and the hostages. Nick has to play things very cautiously, keeping to his criminal persona while at the same time trying to keep them alive. Kody is pretty feisty for a captive and pushes the envelope by being somewhat confrontational with Dillinger. Her reasons are good, as she wants to ensure the safety of her friends and guests, and she's pretty sure they won't hurt her until they get what they want. There are several times when Nick isn't sure how they'll get out of it. Nick could have shot Dillinger and ended things, but he discovered that a little boy had also been kidnapped and hidden as "insurance" and he has to discover the boy's whereabouts before that happens.
The danger changes when the action moves from the house to the Everglades. Dillinger is becoming more intense and unpredictable. Besides having to deal with the criminals, there are also environmental dangers to contend with, such as alligators, crocodiles and snakes. There's some heart-pounding action as Nick and Kody manage to escape, but while they are safe Dillinger has disappeared. Just when Kody and Nick think they are safe, he reappears. I loved Kody's presence of mind here as she attempts to contribute to her rescue. The final confrontation was terrific as Kody's contribution, along with Nick's actions finally bring him down.
Nick has been working undercover for about three weeks. He is with an FBI unit in New York who has been tracking "Dillinger" for months, trying to get the evidence they need to arrest him. Nick and Kody briefly encountered each other at a mutual friend's pub in New York. Nick is worried that Kody will recognize him and blow his cover.
That brief encounter had sparked an instant attraction. It was still there, though Kody was confused at first by the attraction she felt to a criminal. He was protective of them, and had moments when he was nice to her, but he was a criminal! If Nick hadn't been sent off for the undercover mission, he would have asked Kody out. He hasn't been able to get her out of his mind, but this isn't the way he wanted to meet her again. I liked the way that he appreciated her protectiveness for her friends and the intelligence with which she approached her situation. I enjoyed his fight to keep in character and not give in to the attraction. I loved Nick's quick action to ask her out once they were out of the swamp, and Kody's own pursuit of what she wanted. I liked their frank talk about how their careers have affected past relationships and what they want from this one. I loved the ending, with Kody having her big moment with friends and family there. Nick had his a little later, and I liked the hint of vulnerability there. I hope to see more of them in a later book.
The action is intense from the beginning as Dillinger and his people hold hostages to ensure that their demands are met. He is constantly on edge and making threats against Kody and the hostages. Nick has to play things very cautiously, keeping to his criminal persona while at the same time trying to keep them alive. Kody is pretty feisty for a captive and pushes the envelope by being somewhat confrontational with Dillinger. Her reasons are good, as she wants to ensure the safety of her friends and guests, and she's pretty sure they won't hurt her until they get what they want. There are several times when Nick isn't sure how they'll get out of it. Nick could have shot Dillinger and ended things, but he discovered that a little boy had also been kidnapped and hidden as "insurance" and he has to discover the boy's whereabouts before that happens.
The danger changes when the action moves from the house to the Everglades. Dillinger is becoming more intense and unpredictable. Besides having to deal with the criminals, there are also environmental dangers to contend with, such as alligators, crocodiles and snakes. There's some heart-pounding action as Nick and Kody manage to escape, but while they are safe Dillinger has disappeared. Just when Kody and Nick think they are safe, he reappears. I loved Kody's presence of mind here as she attempts to contribute to her rescue. The final confrontation was terrific as Kody's contribution, along with Nick's actions finally bring him down.
April 14, 2020
a short read / listen by a new to me author
I will read more books by her couldn't really get into it, it was very short with not much of a suspenseful storyline
love the title
2,5 stars
I will read more books by her couldn't really get into it, it was very short with not much of a suspenseful storyline
love the title
2,5 stars
January 5, 2017
The premise is certainly interesting but this is my first Heather Graham book and it'll likely be my last. I felt as though I'd been dropped in the middle of some play - the lofty dialogue sometimes reflects this and pulled me out of the gritty suspense-mode I find myself in when reading this genre - with the name-dropping and the whole shebang about a treasure hunt and an undercover FBI agent.
There's very little history between the leads, but even that's subsumed beneath the hostage situation. Without that development, I thought the believability of Nick's and Kody's romance waned for me and while they're solid, decent characters, their connection was barely felt, let alone the rushed HEA at the end.
'Law and Disorder' in truth, bored me silly. I couldn't get my interest up in the story or the names, only to end up skimming when it all washed over my head...the death knell perhaps, was that I didn't quite care even who Finnegan was.
There's very little history between the leads, but even that's subsumed beneath the hostage situation. Without that development, I thought the believability of Nick's and Kody's romance waned for me and while they're solid, decent characters, their connection was barely felt, let alone the rushed HEA at the end.
'Law and Disorder' in truth, bored me silly. I couldn't get my interest up in the story or the names, only to end up skimming when it all washed over my head...the death knell perhaps, was that I didn't quite care even who Finnegan was.
June 24, 2017
3.5 Stars
This book was the Barnes and Noble serial read for the month of June. It was a short one, so each chapter was divided into two or three parts and spread over as many days. This lead to oh so many cliffhangers that made me want to jump on at midnight to find out what happened just as soon as the next day's section was posted.
This book didn't waste any time with backstories or context. It hit the ground running with the first action sequence and didn't let up. And you know, I was feeling it. That pace kept up throughout the entire book, and it was a lot of fun to read. Definitely different from what I normally read.
There were some things that did not work for me. Some made me laugh. Others cringe. I'm just going to hide this whole next section with all the spoilers. Seriously, major spoilers ahead. Don't click if you plan on reading this one.
I'm iffy on whether or not I would read the next book in the series. While I loved the pacing, I'd be worried there would be a repeat of the issues I had with this book. We'll see though.
This book was the Barnes and Noble serial read for the month of June. It was a short one, so each chapter was divided into two or three parts and spread over as many days. This lead to oh so many cliffhangers that made me want to jump on at midnight to find out what happened just as soon as the next day's section was posted.
This book didn't waste any time with backstories or context. It hit the ground running with the first action sequence and didn't let up. And you know, I was feeling it. That pace kept up throughout the entire book, and it was a lot of fun to read. Definitely different from what I normally read.
There were some things that did not work for me. Some made me laugh. Others cringe. I'm just going to hide this whole next section with all the spoilers. Seriously, major spoilers ahead. Don't click if you plan on reading this one.
I'm iffy on whether or not I would read the next book in the series. While I loved the pacing, I'd be worried there would be a repeat of the issues I had with this book. We'll see though.
April 25, 2017
Good story
It was a good story and fast pasted, wish it was a longer book. A Finnegan Connection, could have been more.
It was a good story and fast pasted, wish it was a longer book. A Finnegan Connection, could have been more.
February 6, 2017
I am a huge fan of this author. I have enjoyed her Krewe of Hunters series along with most of her other books. The way she weaves in historical fact into her stories in adds to the appeal and enjoyment for me. Law and Disorder is the first in a new series put out by Harlequin's Intrigue imprint. I was so excited to get a new series that I eagerly dove into the book.
Unfortunately, this book didn't really do much for me. The length really had a lot to do with it. It was too short for me to really get into the characters and want to root for them. Don't get me wrong, the story starts off with a gun in Kody's face, literally. I was expecting a fast paced suspense. I didn't get it. The writing felt disjointed and repetitive. The dialogue was a bit cheesy at times. Honestly, I kept thinking someone else wrote this book. It wasn't the quality that I know and usually get from this author.
One thing I did like was Kody. I love a strong female lead and she fit the bill. She just wasn't enough to carry the book for me. I definitely didn't buy into the love story. How did they fall in love exactly? The HEA ending was just way too fast for me to believe. I would have been fine had there been no romance in the book at all.
I'll probably check out the next book in the series. I'm always hopeful that a series will get better as the books come out.
Unfortunately, this book didn't really do much for me. The length really had a lot to do with it. It was too short for me to really get into the characters and want to root for them. Don't get me wrong, the story starts off with a gun in Kody's face, literally. I was expecting a fast paced suspense. I didn't get it. The writing felt disjointed and repetitive. The dialogue was a bit cheesy at times. Honestly, I kept thinking someone else wrote this book. It wasn't the quality that I know and usually get from this author.
One thing I did like was Kody. I love a strong female lead and she fit the bill. She just wasn't enough to carry the book for me. I definitely didn't buy into the love story. How did they fall in love exactly? The HEA ending was just way too fast for me to believe. I would have been fine had there been no romance in the book at all.
I'll probably check out the next book in the series. I'm always hopeful that a series will get better as the books come out.
February 7, 2017
I love Heather Graham's work, I really do. I don't think she even knows how to write a weak heroine.
Kody was frickin' awesome! She kept her cool, was always thinking of others, and had a keen intellect that made it impossible to doubt that she'd come out on top and save the day.
Nick was less developed, but if I ever need an FBI agent to save my hide, I would want it to be him. He didn't doubt his or Kody's abilities or strength for a moment. And even as a bad guy, I couldn't help but like him.
The story is a treasure of a treasure hunt and I was so engrossed in it that I didn't even realize the sun was coming up until I finished the reading the last page.
I admit that I got a bit burnt out on this author's other series - Krewe of Hunters - and I had hoped and prayed she would branch out into other stories. I'm so so very glad she did! It's reminded me of how much I enjoy her work and I'm now excited to delve back into her books after taking a break from her Krewe. Her sci-fi thriller co-written with Jon Land is next on my TBR list!
Kody was frickin' awesome! She kept her cool, was always thinking of others, and had a keen intellect that made it impossible to doubt that she'd come out on top and save the day.
Nick was less developed, but if I ever need an FBI agent to save my hide, I would want it to be him. He didn't doubt his or Kody's abilities or strength for a moment. And even as a bad guy, I couldn't help but like him.
The story is a treasure of a treasure hunt and I was so engrossed in it that I didn't even realize the sun was coming up until I finished the reading the last page.
I admit that I got a bit burnt out on this author's other series - Krewe of Hunters - and I had hoped and prayed she would branch out into other stories. I'm so so very glad she did! It's reminded me of how much I enjoy her work and I'm now excited to delve back into her books after taking a break from her Krewe. Her sci-fi thriller co-written with Jon Land is next on my TBR list!
July 25, 2024
"Law and Disorder" by Heather Graham is book one in the "Finnegan Connection" series. Kody is taken to help find the treasure that is in the Everglades. Nick works for the FBI and is undercover trying not to blow his cover. He has met Kody before and is so nervous that she is going to recognize him and get them killed. There is a lot of action, and it keeps you turning the page to see what happens next between Kody and Nick. This was a quick read and a great start to the series. I enjoyed the setting and the plot a lot.
March 31, 2017
“Law and Disorder” is a fast-paced, action-packed thrill-ride that begins on Crystal Island, Florida when Kodie Cameron and the staff at Crystal Manor are held hostage by a gang of ex-cons who are determined to hunt down the stash mobster Anthony Green and the South American drug lord Guillermo Salazer hid in the Everglades. Determined to keep the kidnappers from killing the hostages and armed with old historical records Kodie begins to track the buried loot as the FBI and local police negotiate for the captives’ release.
Recognizing Kodie from an encounter at Finnegan’s bar in New York City undercover agent Nick Connolly (aka Barrow) works to keep his identity secret acting his part as a dangerous criminal while bargaining for the boats Dillinger (aka Nathan Appleby) needs to take his gang into the Everglades in search of a treasure trove long buried. Yearning to take down the ex-cons and save the hostages his hands are tied with the mayor’s son abducted and hidden by Dillinger who’s not about to divulge the information. In a race against time as they overcome the perils of the snake and alligator laden swamp Kodie and Nick will risk everything to save a child before all hell breaks loose.
Set between a Manor that seems a cross between an Italianate palace and a mediaeval castle and the dangerous swamp lands of the Everglades the tension continually mounts as police and gang members swap bullets and hostages are threatened as Barrow negotiates for boats that will take the half-crazed leader and his men into the deadly waters of the bayou. Skilfully Heather Graham builds intensity and suspense with every hostage released and every message Barrow smuggles out to his partner on the case while dealing with a madman who will do anything even kill to get what he wants.
Amid all the violence, fear and uncertainty, with Nick never wavering in his role as a thug, Kodie is thrown into confusion, sensing familiarity in the blue eyes staring back at her and protectiveness in his actions, keeping her and the other hostages safe. She struggles against the wrongness of her attraction to the handsome, muscular man but is unavoidably drawn to him, while Nick struggles to do his job and stay away from her. The magnetism between the two sizzles, their chemistry magnetic as she tries to save him from what she perceives as his criminal past, and he struggles to protect her.
Kodie Cameron is beautiful, earnest, passionate and feisty while Nick Connolly the dedicated undercover agent is intense, resourceful and brave as he tackles the uptight, paranoid madness of Nathan Appleby who will stop at nothing to gain the wealth that lies hidden. These characters and others infuse the story with excitement, passion and drama that makes the novel a page-turner from beginning to the end.
I liked “Law and Disorder” the first book in the “Finnegan Connection” that’s as entertaining as it is exciting.
Recognizing Kodie from an encounter at Finnegan’s bar in New York City undercover agent Nick Connolly (aka Barrow) works to keep his identity secret acting his part as a dangerous criminal while bargaining for the boats Dillinger (aka Nathan Appleby) needs to take his gang into the Everglades in search of a treasure trove long buried. Yearning to take down the ex-cons and save the hostages his hands are tied with the mayor’s son abducted and hidden by Dillinger who’s not about to divulge the information. In a race against time as they overcome the perils of the snake and alligator laden swamp Kodie and Nick will risk everything to save a child before all hell breaks loose.
Set between a Manor that seems a cross between an Italianate palace and a mediaeval castle and the dangerous swamp lands of the Everglades the tension continually mounts as police and gang members swap bullets and hostages are threatened as Barrow negotiates for boats that will take the half-crazed leader and his men into the deadly waters of the bayou. Skilfully Heather Graham builds intensity and suspense with every hostage released and every message Barrow smuggles out to his partner on the case while dealing with a madman who will do anything even kill to get what he wants.
Amid all the violence, fear and uncertainty, with Nick never wavering in his role as a thug, Kodie is thrown into confusion, sensing familiarity in the blue eyes staring back at her and protectiveness in his actions, keeping her and the other hostages safe. She struggles against the wrongness of her attraction to the handsome, muscular man but is unavoidably drawn to him, while Nick struggles to do his job and stay away from her. The magnetism between the two sizzles, their chemistry magnetic as she tries to save him from what she perceives as his criminal past, and he struggles to protect her.
Kodie Cameron is beautiful, earnest, passionate and feisty while Nick Connolly the dedicated undercover agent is intense, resourceful and brave as he tackles the uptight, paranoid madness of Nathan Appleby who will stop at nothing to gain the wealth that lies hidden. These characters and others infuse the story with excitement, passion and drama that makes the novel a page-turner from beginning to the end.
I liked “Law and Disorder” the first book in the “Finnegan Connection” that’s as entertaining as it is exciting.
July 3, 2017
It is a good thing that this is not my first experience with Heather Graham’s work because if it were after reading this book it would be my last. Based on my prior experience, I went into this book with high expectations, but instead, I ended up being sorely disappointed.
What the story is about.
Kody Cameron returned to Florida to finalise business and personal affairs before returning to New York where she makes a living as a live actress. However, she never expected to be taken hostage by masked men searching for decades old treasure hidden by the notorious criminal Anthony Green.
Nick Connolly is seeking to capture career criminal Nathan Appleby. To achieve this goal, he infiltrated the gang that held Kody hostage. He recognises her, from a brief meeting they had in the past, as the girl he wanted to get to know better. Now Nick faces the biggest challenge of his career, taking down the gang while trying to protect Kody, her employees and the mayor’s son.
My Perspective
The Story
Now after reading the above, you must be asking yourselves what problems could I have with such an exciting premise. Well, I know you would expect a fast-paced, edge of your seat read. Unfortunately, this was not my experience and to make matters worse the romance was below average. The story lacked fluidity making it difficult to follow. The suspense took a long time to build up and by the time it did it was over.
The Characters
Kody: Initially I was not sure what to make of her. I know if I had a gun held to my head, I would pray every chance I get, instead of mouthing off to the man behind the gun. I am not sure what to call her action be it bravery or sheer stupidity. Her actions lacked credibility. However, as the story progressed, I came to admire her strength and selflessness during the hostage crisis.
Nick: Throughout the story, he remained a mystery. I knew nothing about him beyond the current situation. He made a great villain given the circumstances. He was the voice of reason in a volatile situation which
The Villains: I was not impressed by the villains especially the supposed career criminal. Some members of the gang were evidently not cut out for a life of crime. It would seem that Appleby did not call the shots in this situation. I am not an expert on hostage negotiations, but I found it strange that he would allow Nick to negotiate on his behalf, giving him the upper hand. Appleby was a big joke, half the time it appeared he had no idea what he was about.
Character development was lacking, and I had difficulty connecting with the characters.
The Romance
Not only did I not connect with the main characters individually I also did not connect with them as a couple. Their romance lacked credibility and left me with a lot of questions. I have no clue how they found the time to fall in love. Most of their interaction took place during the hostage situation and there was no evidence of any spark during this time. They went on one date then the next thing I know they moved in together and looking forward to getting married.
Recommendation
The reviews for this title were mixed. Honestly, I am unable to understand the five-star reviews. I guess the reviews were geared towards the author instead of the book. Personally, I would not recommend this book. However, I am sure there are some readers who would enjoy this title, but it just was not my thing.
What the story is about.
Kody Cameron returned to Florida to finalise business and personal affairs before returning to New York where she makes a living as a live actress. However, she never expected to be taken hostage by masked men searching for decades old treasure hidden by the notorious criminal Anthony Green.
Nick Connolly is seeking to capture career criminal Nathan Appleby. To achieve this goal, he infiltrated the gang that held Kody hostage. He recognises her, from a brief meeting they had in the past, as the girl he wanted to get to know better. Now Nick faces the biggest challenge of his career, taking down the gang while trying to protect Kody, her employees and the mayor’s son.
My Perspective
The Story
Now after reading the above, you must be asking yourselves what problems could I have with such an exciting premise. Well, I know you would expect a fast-paced, edge of your seat read. Unfortunately, this was not my experience and to make matters worse the romance was below average. The story lacked fluidity making it difficult to follow. The suspense took a long time to build up and by the time it did it was over.
The Characters
Kody: Initially I was not sure what to make of her. I know if I had a gun held to my head, I would pray every chance I get, instead of mouthing off to the man behind the gun. I am not sure what to call her action be it bravery or sheer stupidity. Her actions lacked credibility. However, as the story progressed, I came to admire her strength and selflessness during the hostage crisis.
Nick: Throughout the story, he remained a mystery. I knew nothing about him beyond the current situation. He made a great villain given the circumstances. He was the voice of reason in a volatile situation which
The Villains: I was not impressed by the villains especially the supposed career criminal. Some members of the gang were evidently not cut out for a life of crime. It would seem that Appleby did not call the shots in this situation. I am not an expert on hostage negotiations, but I found it strange that he would allow Nick to negotiate on his behalf, giving him the upper hand. Appleby was a big joke, half the time it appeared he had no idea what he was about.
Character development was lacking, and I had difficulty connecting with the characters.
The Romance
Not only did I not connect with the main characters individually I also did not connect with them as a couple. Their romance lacked credibility and left me with a lot of questions. I have no clue how they found the time to fall in love. Most of their interaction took place during the hostage situation and there was no evidence of any spark during this time. They went on one date then the next thing I know they moved in together and looking forward to getting married.
Recommendation
The reviews for this title were mixed. Honestly, I am unable to understand the five-star reviews. I guess the reviews were geared towards the author instead of the book. Personally, I would not recommend this book. However, I am sure there are some readers who would enjoy this title, but it just was not my thing.
April 29, 2018
This was a book about an undercover agent, who is following a criminal, who is truly crazy, and infiltrates his gang. They all wear old gangster masks, and kidnap a young woman because she read a lot about a,bootleggers, and the gangster thinks she can figure out where the treasure is, even though it has been missing for decades.. There is some suspense in the place they. kidnap her from, a family owned estate, because it was once owned by the mobster. There are hostages, and shootings, and then they go to the everglades because the bootlegger had his still, and business there. Nothing much is left after all these years, and the chance comes for escape...but the killer gangster is still at large. Has he used his influence to leave the country or risk all for a possible treasure? Then the agent falls for the kidnapped girl, even though he pretends to be a gang member. Will he save her, and be able to have a relationship ? The book was not bad, and I have read other books by this author that were better. The whole reason for the kidnapping, and hostage taking seemed silly, when he was a big named criminal. Why risk it all because of an old story about a treasure. Plus years had passed, and after shootings, and injuries there were only four people to look through the everglades.. It was an easy book to read, and it ended well. It just not one of her best. 3.5 Stars for me because I liked the two main characters, who helped make the story more believable.
February 10, 2017
Reviewed by Gemini
Law and Disorder is the first book in Heather Graham’s Finnegan series. It was a lot of fun and reminded me of an old gangster movie mainly because the villains in the book all had code names that went back to the Prohibition Era. In addition, these criminals were in search of merchandise that had been stolen decades ago by a gangster of that very same era. There was murder, kidnapping, and a massive manhunt. Somehow, Heather Graham was also able to weave in some romance.
Law and Disorder is the story of stage actress Dakota “Kody” Cameron who is taken hostage while visiting the historic manor that her family inherited and operates as a sort of museum in Florida. One of her ancestors owned the manor and was also a criminal who had stolen and hidden jewels and other valuables decades ago. Of course, no one has ever been able to find the stolen goods. However, that doesn’t stop a criminal mastermind who calls himself “Dillinger” from taking Kody and members of the Manor’s staff hostage in an effort to force Kody to figure out where the valuables are hidden. She has proven to know a lot about the area and possible hiding places of the loot. Unbeknownst to Kody, one of the members of Dillinger’s crew is actually undercover FBI agent Nick Connolly. Oddly enough, although he is wearing a mask and using a codename, Kody is sure that she has met Nick before. For Nick, he has to be careful that Kody doesn’t recognize him and blow his cover. Plus, the attraction that they share creates an interesting dynamic between captive and captor.
Although some parts of the book appeared to be a little unrealistic, I did appreciate the cat and mouse game that was played out. Nick’s struggle to keep everyone safe while maintaining his cover was intriguing and I liked how he was able to stay calm. It seems that the Heather really didn’t want to create a gory scene so the body count was nonexistent and there was little violence. As far as the romance was concerned, even the love scenes were fairly tame. Consequently, I felt like she could have turned things up a notch but it was still a good book overall.
**Received a copy from Harlequin and reviewed voluntarily.**
Law and Disorder is the first book in Heather Graham’s Finnegan series. It was a lot of fun and reminded me of an old gangster movie mainly because the villains in the book all had code names that went back to the Prohibition Era. In addition, these criminals were in search of merchandise that had been stolen decades ago by a gangster of that very same era. There was murder, kidnapping, and a massive manhunt. Somehow, Heather Graham was also able to weave in some romance.
Law and Disorder is the story of stage actress Dakota “Kody” Cameron who is taken hostage while visiting the historic manor that her family inherited and operates as a sort of museum in Florida. One of her ancestors owned the manor and was also a criminal who had stolen and hidden jewels and other valuables decades ago. Of course, no one has ever been able to find the stolen goods. However, that doesn’t stop a criminal mastermind who calls himself “Dillinger” from taking Kody and members of the Manor’s staff hostage in an effort to force Kody to figure out where the valuables are hidden. She has proven to know a lot about the area and possible hiding places of the loot. Unbeknownst to Kody, one of the members of Dillinger’s crew is actually undercover FBI agent Nick Connolly. Oddly enough, although he is wearing a mask and using a codename, Kody is sure that she has met Nick before. For Nick, he has to be careful that Kody doesn’t recognize him and blow his cover. Plus, the attraction that they share creates an interesting dynamic between captive and captor.
Although some parts of the book appeared to be a little unrealistic, I did appreciate the cat and mouse game that was played out. Nick’s struggle to keep everyone safe while maintaining his cover was intriguing and I liked how he was able to stay calm. It seems that the Heather really didn’t want to create a gory scene so the body count was nonexistent and there was little violence. As far as the romance was concerned, even the love scenes were fairly tame. Consequently, I felt like she could have turned things up a notch but it was still a good book overall.
**Received a copy from Harlequin and reviewed voluntarily.**
August 17, 2020
2.5 STARS. First book by this author. It was okay. I thought how the main criminal got the girl again was stupid...I knew he was coming back for her. Wasn’t much to the romance, expected more. Sometimes hard to follow to descriptions of the settings in the Everglades. Not sure if I’ll try another one of her books.
August 9, 2018
Enjoyed it.
November 29, 2021
Plotting and characters were excellent, But the writing was repetitive. Not only were characters referred to by the full names each time, she used clumsy phrases like a million-dollar heist worth millions and dark darkness. She also had some of the same conversations and descriptions verbatim. We heard the River of grass talk at least six times.
December 31, 2017
This book was a pleasant surprise. It’s an FBI thriller without the gruesome details of the killings. It didn’t seem like a serious crime but it got solved anyway. Even though the story stayed at a superficial level, it was a nice read.
January 6, 2023
1.5-2 stars?
I dunno
What I do know is that I was bored out of my mind.
So I DNFed around 40%.
Not for me.
I dunno
What I do know is that I was bored out of my mind.
So I DNFed around 40%.
Not for me.
March 13, 2017
She had to remember she was in danger. That Nick had been her captor-who had turned into her savior.
A fun read of cat and mouse and a little chemistry. Kody Cameron has just walked into a minefield. A group of nervous men have taken over the inn her parents own and have marked her to help in recovering buried treasure. Among the group of masked men, there is one set of eyes that look familiar. Those familiar eyes belong to FBI agent Nick who has infiltrated these masked men to bring down their leader. In the process, he recognizes Kody and fears that Kody will break his cover and a war will break out in the Everglades.
The plot becomes intense as the two learn to trust each other with their lives.
A Special Thank You to Harlequin and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 23, 2017
I just love a romantic suspense that you can just sink into with great characters that make the story come alive. LAW AND DISORDER is just such a book. Kody is a spunky heroine is who is willing to risk her life for others. Nick is undercover as one of the gang of kidnappers but he is doing everything that he can to make sure everyone makes it out alive, especially Kody. Appleby is insane but highly functioning and obsessed with an old treasure. And he is sure that Kody is the key to finding it.
This book is fraught with danger and tension not only from the men that kidnapped Kody and her friends but from the surroundings themselves, the Florida Everglades. Not knowing if you are going to be shot or eaten by an alligator puts a real damper on the situation. Adding to that is the fact that Kody feels as though she is going insane because of her attraction to Nick who as far as she knows is a criminal.
I do feel that my readers who enjoy a romantic suspense will enjoy this book. I really liked the characters and the setting itself. There is some violence but no graphic sex.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
This book is fraught with danger and tension not only from the men that kidnapped Kody and her friends but from the surroundings themselves, the Florida Everglades. Not knowing if you are going to be shot or eaten by an alligator puts a real damper on the situation. Adding to that is the fact that Kody feels as though she is going insane because of her attraction to Nick who as far as she knows is a criminal.
I do feel that my readers who enjoy a romantic suspense will enjoy this book. I really liked the characters and the setting itself. There is some violence but no graphic sex.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
February 13, 2018
Jeez! Is the heroine’s name Kody or Cody? Four little letters and the editor couldn’t get the spellings to match? You’re fired! And who the hell was Flynn? Did you mean Floyd? Editor please!!!
This was an alright story but it was very repetitive. And since it only had 256 pages there was no point in repeating anything.
It was a story about crooks taking over an old house that once belonged to a gangster who had stolen a lot of money and jewels and then was gunned down and no one ever found the loot. So the gang took everyone hostage when they were really after our heroine Kody who ran the old house and knew everything about the gangster and who Appleby thought could take them all out to the Everglades and find all that loot that had been missing since the 1930’s.
I did like Nick and Kody a great deal. She was tough when she had to be and kept her mouth shut when she knew what was good for her. And Nick was an FBI agent who had infiltrated the gang and who had to keep all the hostages alive
There was one sex scene and since NOTHING led up to it I skipped over it. Knowing HG’s books I’m sure it was explicit. There was no swearing to speak of. LOL, 6 killer/kidnapper bad guys and no one uses the F-bomb? That’s highly unlikely.
As to the narration: Saskia Maarleveld was just alright for me. She doesn’t read with much emotion and her men’s voices need some work. When it says someone laughed you should laugh and when you’re standing out in the middle of the Everglades and admitting, finally, to being an undercover agent you really, really should be whispering.
December 31, 2016
Law and Disorder by Heather Graham is another remarkable read. This writer's talent is obvious with every on of her books. The suspense of what is to come always lures me inside the tale. Intrigued, I keep on reading. Page after page, the action draws me further into its depth. Fear soon takes over as the fast-paced, heart wrenching, and deadly story take hold of me. I am left wondering who will die and when. A thrilling read that engages readers immediately.
Law and Disorder isn't just a thriller but a romantic suspense. Yes, despite the danger, love is brewing on the horizon. Yet, one or both may die. Playing the hero isn't easy. Choices...are hard. An undercover FBI agent is soon led on what should have been an as assignment. After reading it, it was anything but easy. Nick could easily have killed the bad guy any moment, but he had to find answers. Answers only the killer knew. And to get them, he had to play along as a bad guy in the crazy ass scheme. Wearing a mask, Nick still feared the beautiful brunette would give away his cover. His familiarity made Kody curious but she didn't realize it until later...friends, coworkers, and family lives are on the line. A killer is loose and only Nick can save the day. Or lose all that matters to him. Addictive, hot, and stunning. I loved every moment of this read. Well-told. Hooked me in from the beginning. I can't wait to read the next adventure by Heather Graham. Overall, I highly recommend Law and Disorder to all.
Law and Disorder isn't just a thriller but a romantic suspense. Yes, despite the danger, love is brewing on the horizon. Yet, one or both may die. Playing the hero isn't easy. Choices...are hard. An undercover FBI agent is soon led on what should have been an as assignment. After reading it, it was anything but easy. Nick could easily have killed the bad guy any moment, but he had to find answers. Answers only the killer knew. And to get them, he had to play along as a bad guy in the crazy ass scheme. Wearing a mask, Nick still feared the beautiful brunette would give away his cover. His familiarity made Kody curious but she didn't realize it until later...friends, coworkers, and family lives are on the line. A killer is loose and only Nick can save the day. Or lose all that matters to him. Addictive, hot, and stunning. I loved every moment of this read. Well-told. Hooked me in from the beginning. I can't wait to read the next adventure by Heather Graham. Overall, I highly recommend Law and Disorder to all.
December 1, 2016
Review pending
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