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Bad to Be Good #1
Bad to Be Good
Longboat Key, Florida, is about as far from the streets of Detroit as a group of gay former mobsters can get, but threats from within their own organization forced them into witness protection—and a new life.
Richard Marsden is making the best of his second chance, tending bar and learning who he is outside of organized crime… and flirting with the cute single dad, Daniel, who comes in every Wednesday. But much like Richard, Daniel hides dark secrets that could get him killed. When Daniel’s past as a hacker catches up to him, Richard has the skills to help Daniel out, but not without raising some serious questions and risking his own new identity and the friends who went into hiding with him.
Solving problems like Daniel’s is what Richard does best—and what he’s trying to escape. But finding a way to keep Daniel and his son safe without sacrificing the person he’s becoming will take some imagination, and the stakes have never been higher. This time it’s not just lives on the line—it’s his heart….
Richard Marsden is making the best of his second chance, tending bar and learning who he is outside of organized crime… and flirting with the cute single dad, Daniel, who comes in every Wednesday. But much like Richard, Daniel hides dark secrets that could get him killed. When Daniel’s past as a hacker catches up to him, Richard has the skills to help Daniel out, but not without raising some serious questions and risking his own new identity and the friends who went into hiding with him.
Solving problems like Daniel’s is what Richard does best—and what he’s trying to escape. But finding a way to keep Daniel and his son safe without sacrificing the person he’s becoming will take some imagination, and the stakes have never been higher. This time it’s not just lives on the line—it’s his heart….
268 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 9, 2021
41 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 11, 2020
This was a really good book. I really enjoyed it and the whole danger aspect of it.
Richard, Terrance, and Gerome used to be part of a mob organization out of Detroit. At that time in their lives they thought that they had everything could ever want. They were respected, had money, and as many hookups as they wanted. But all of that changed. Now these three men are in Witness Protection after testifying against the mob organization they grew up in. With this comes lots of changes they are all struggling with – like holding down regular jobs, the loss of their money, the Florida heat, and constantly having to worry about their whereabouts being discovered. But the one thing they still have is each other. Best friends since they were twelve and always having each other’s backs.
When Richard starts to fall for a patron who comes into the bar he works for, Terrance and Gerome give him grief because it could put them in danger. When it becomes obvious that Daniel is much more than a hookup to Richard, the guys don’t really know how to act.
Richard does not know what it is about Daniel that draws him in, but he cannot stop thinking about him. When he finds out that Daniel has a little boy, he truly thinks about not pursuing things between them but after meeting Coby, he knows he cannot walk away from either of them.
When Richard finds out that someone is trying to blackmail Daniel into doing something illegal and using Coby as the blackmail, he is determined to help keep both father and son safe. In order to do that he will need his best friends’ help.
Can these three men keep Coby and Daniel safe and themselves in the process? Or will trying to protect them endanger more then just father and son?
This was a great read. I enjoyed the slow buildup between Daniel and Richard and I really loved the relationship between the two men and Coby. Then when you throw in Gerome and Terrance as well, this book was an incredible read! Definitely recommended!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Richard, Terrance, and Gerome used to be part of a mob organization out of Detroit. At that time in their lives they thought that they had everything could ever want. They were respected, had money, and as many hookups as they wanted. But all of that changed. Now these three men are in Witness Protection after testifying against the mob organization they grew up in. With this comes lots of changes they are all struggling with – like holding down regular jobs, the loss of their money, the Florida heat, and constantly having to worry about their whereabouts being discovered. But the one thing they still have is each other. Best friends since they were twelve and always having each other’s backs.
When Richard starts to fall for a patron who comes into the bar he works for, Terrance and Gerome give him grief because it could put them in danger. When it becomes obvious that Daniel is much more than a hookup to Richard, the guys don’t really know how to act.
Richard does not know what it is about Daniel that draws him in, but he cannot stop thinking about him. When he finds out that Daniel has a little boy, he truly thinks about not pursuing things between them but after meeting Coby, he knows he cannot walk away from either of them.
When Richard finds out that someone is trying to blackmail Daniel into doing something illegal and using Coby as the blackmail, he is determined to help keep both father and son safe. In order to do that he will need his best friends’ help.
Can these three men keep Coby and Daniel safe and themselves in the process? Or will trying to protect them endanger more then just father and son?
This was a great read. I enjoyed the slow buildup between Daniel and Richard and I really loved the relationship between the two men and Coby. Then when you throw in Gerome and Terrance as well, this book was an incredible read! Definitely recommended!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 16, 2020
This was such a fun book to read, it had romance and mystery and I absolutely loved these characters! I’m a big Andrew Grey fan, I pretty much always know when I get one of his books I’m going to enjoy it and I have to say this one was even more than I expected.
Richard, Terrance and Gerome are former mobsters, now in the witness protection program and living in Florida. They have regular day jobs now and the priority is to keep a low profile and don’t ever reveal their real identities. Richard is working as a bartender and all is going as planned until Daniel catches his eye. Daniel is a single dad, just trying to make ends meet and raise his son. Wednesday nights he gets a little escape and enjoys a couple beers and some fish and chips. Hot bartender Richard is a bonus. The two quickly realize their attraction is mutual and it could be dangerous for both men. But it seems that attraction just cannot be denied and Richard soon finds himself inserted into Daniel and his adorable son Coby’s lives.
If only it could be just an easy romance for these two, but no! Richard has a lot of secrets that would probably terrify Daniel if he knew the truth. And Daniel, yeah, he’s got some secrets too, mysterious letters threatening him and his son. He soon discovers someone wants to use his hacking skills for their benefit. When Richard finds out, he’s not about to let anyone hurt Daniel or Coby but it’s a dangerous game on many levels.
I absolutely loved this story! Richard, Terrance and Gerome are so great together, they definitely have that ‘family no matter what’ feeling. They look out for each other without question. Daniel is such a great guy and I loved him and Richard together. I loved the man Richard wanted to be for Daniel and Coby, that just gave me all the feels! There really is a great mix of romance and mystery and I was hooked right from the start. You have these former criminals, not trying to thwart the criminals! It’s just fantastic!
I loved the buildup of the relationship between Richard and Daniel. These two fall so deeply for each other, but they certainly face some major challenges. This book checked every box for me and I’m definitely hoping for more of these characters!
Richard, Terrance and Gerome are former mobsters, now in the witness protection program and living in Florida. They have regular day jobs now and the priority is to keep a low profile and don’t ever reveal their real identities. Richard is working as a bartender and all is going as planned until Daniel catches his eye. Daniel is a single dad, just trying to make ends meet and raise his son. Wednesday nights he gets a little escape and enjoys a couple beers and some fish and chips. Hot bartender Richard is a bonus. The two quickly realize their attraction is mutual and it could be dangerous for both men. But it seems that attraction just cannot be denied and Richard soon finds himself inserted into Daniel and his adorable son Coby’s lives.
If only it could be just an easy romance for these two, but no! Richard has a lot of secrets that would probably terrify Daniel if he knew the truth. And Daniel, yeah, he’s got some secrets too, mysterious letters threatening him and his son. He soon discovers someone wants to use his hacking skills for their benefit. When Richard finds out, he’s not about to let anyone hurt Daniel or Coby but it’s a dangerous game on many levels.
I absolutely loved this story! Richard, Terrance and Gerome are so great together, they definitely have that ‘family no matter what’ feeling. They look out for each other without question. Daniel is such a great guy and I loved him and Richard together. I loved the man Richard wanted to be for Daniel and Coby, that just gave me all the feels! There really is a great mix of romance and mystery and I was hooked right from the start. You have these former criminals, not trying to thwart the criminals! It’s just fantastic!
I loved the buildup of the relationship between Richard and Daniel. These two fall so deeply for each other, but they certainly face some major challenges. This book checked every box for me and I’m definitely hoping for more of these characters!
December 20, 2020
This book was so good. I am a huge Andrew Grey fan but this one surprised me. It is a little different in a way with his Main character and his two best friends being ex-mobsters in Wit-Sec. They have been moved from Detroit to Iowa to a tiny little island in the Florida Keys. Richard is a bartender and all three men are having it tough adjusting to their new jobs and life in the simple, quiet little town… until it's not so quiet anymore. It seems chaos follows them everywhere.
Daniel has a very quiet life almost a hermit working from home raising his young son. His sister comes on Wednesdays to give him a break. He goes to a local bar for a beer or two and a plate of fish and chips. But that isn’t the real reason he goes. The new bartender is gorgeous. He swore he wouldn’t get involved with a man because if things don’t work out it isn’t just him that gets hurt. Coby will too. Then his past catches up to him and he gets very confused about things. Is Richard really trying to help or is he involved?
I think this is one of my favorite books by Andrew Grey if I had to choose. (they are all amazing) It’s just the different characters, the touch of mystery and danger, and the storylines and plots. Of course, there is a cute kid that steals your heart (and the book lol)
If you like mobsters (ex in this case) Wit-Sec, hackers, single dads, cute kids, and some hot sex you will love this book.
Daniel has a very quiet life almost a hermit working from home raising his young son. His sister comes on Wednesdays to give him a break. He goes to a local bar for a beer or two and a plate of fish and chips. But that isn’t the real reason he goes. The new bartender is gorgeous. He swore he wouldn’t get involved with a man because if things don’t work out it isn’t just him that gets hurt. Coby will too. Then his past catches up to him and he gets very confused about things. Is Richard really trying to help or is he involved?
I think this is one of my favorite books by Andrew Grey if I had to choose. (they are all amazing) It’s just the different characters, the touch of mystery and danger, and the storylines and plots. Of course, there is a cute kid that steals your heart (and the book lol)
If you like mobsters (ex in this case) Wit-Sec, hackers, single dads, cute kids, and some hot sex you will love this book.
December 1, 2025
Got this for my birthday in 2021 and I finally got to it. I loved it so much.
Richard and his best friends who are brothers from different mothers are wonderful. Terrance and Gerome with Richard used to be in the mob in Detroit but when boss died and son took over he wanted them gone. Instead they turned the tables and flipped on the whole set of people.
Now they in Florida trying lay low after already having be relocated once. They don't want to be split up so they doing best leave the old ways behind.
Richard meets Daniel who comes into the bar he works at. That changes things because as time passes he starts to feel something he never had before. Daniel becomes important to him.
Daniel has son Coby who is so cute. He not only has Richard wrapped around his finger but Terrance and Gerome too. Three tough guys who do anything for each other and in here we find how far they go help protect Daniel and Coby when trouble finds Daniel.
Loved the romance. The sex was hot. The brotherhood was epic. I wanted more and I can't wait to read the other 2 and half books. Richard and Daniel make great family with Coby. Was glad everything worked out.
Richard and his best friends who are brothers from different mothers are wonderful. Terrance and Gerome with Richard used to be in the mob in Detroit but when boss died and son took over he wanted them gone. Instead they turned the tables and flipped on the whole set of people.
Now they in Florida trying lay low after already having be relocated once. They don't want to be split up so they doing best leave the old ways behind.
Richard meets Daniel who comes into the bar he works at. That changes things because as time passes he starts to feel something he never had before. Daniel becomes important to him.
Daniel has son Coby who is so cute. He not only has Richard wrapped around his finger but Terrance and Gerome too. Three tough guys who do anything for each other and in here we find how far they go help protect Daniel and Coby when trouble finds Daniel.
Loved the romance. The sex was hot. The brotherhood was epic. I wanted more and I can't wait to read the other 2 and half books. Richard and Daniel make great family with Coby. Was glad everything worked out.
November 20, 2020
Unique Plot Line & Characters
You can depend on Andrew Grey to deliver familiar settings and credible characters. In this one he departs from his usual settings to place this one in a tiny town on the West Coast of Florida but his MCs are familiar at first blush: complete opposites in almost every respect (see the blurb to get the idea). Yet ex-gangster Richard and computer geek Daniel cannot get away from each other despite all the dangers likely to be imposed upon them if they pursued a relationship.
At the center of the plot line are three other strongly developed characters: Richard's "brothers" Terrence and Gerome, and the one who steals the whole show and seals all the deals, Daniel's 4-year-old son Coby.
Author Gray has recently developed a serious liking for including young children as part of his casts and in this one he has created another special winner. The entire plot eventually centers around Coby and in my book that is not only OK but key to the pleasure this book ultimately brings.
My only question is whether this is going to be a one-off or if there will be a couple of sequels to deal with Richard's "brothers." Otherwise, another five-star romp from a five-star author.
You can depend on Andrew Grey to deliver familiar settings and credible characters. In this one he departs from his usual settings to place this one in a tiny town on the West Coast of Florida but his MCs are familiar at first blush: complete opposites in almost every respect (see the blurb to get the idea). Yet ex-gangster Richard and computer geek Daniel cannot get away from each other despite all the dangers likely to be imposed upon them if they pursued a relationship.
At the center of the plot line are three other strongly developed characters: Richard's "brothers" Terrence and Gerome, and the one who steals the whole show and seals all the deals, Daniel's 4-year-old son Coby.
Author Gray has recently developed a serious liking for including young children as part of his casts and in this one he has created another special winner. The entire plot eventually centers around Coby and in my book that is not only OK but key to the pleasure this book ultimately brings.
My only question is whether this is going to be a one-off or if there will be a couple of sequels to deal with Richard's "brothers." Otherwise, another five-star romp from a five-star author.
April 19, 2021
DNF. I skimmed the summary and thought it would be a fun book to read. That thought was shot down from the very beginning. Sorry, but it read as if written by a teenager. The MC, Richard, is supposed to be a tough, albeit gay, former...mobster? Gangster? Wasn't very clear what exactly. Anyway, he sounds very juvenile. The other MC, Daniel, he sounded as if the author was trying to make him proper and polite, but it was badly portrayed. Generally, the story wasn't well-written, neither in its style nor in its maturity.
February 24, 2025
Action. Romance, and 4 yr old Colby!
Richard, now a bartender, and his 2 brothers from a different mother, now shop clerks, have been settled on Longboat Key as part of Witsec. Daniel, web designer and father of 4 year old Colby, gets to go out Wednesday evenings while his sister “babysits.” Enjoy how Richard and Daniel’s flirting develops into more, how they quickly respond to threats, and how tricky it is with Colby around to savor much desired, steamy moments!!!
Richard, now a bartender, and his 2 brothers from a different mother, now shop clerks, have been settled on Longboat Key as part of Witsec. Daniel, web designer and father of 4 year old Colby, gets to go out Wednesday evenings while his sister “babysits.” Enjoy how Richard and Daniel’s flirting develops into more, how they quickly respond to threats, and how tricky it is with Colby around to savor much desired, steamy moments!!!
January 5, 2021
3.5 stars. This was fine. Better than the last AG romance I read, but still not my favorite. I did like our two MCs and LOVE a relationship where one guy has a kid, but besides the parent aspect, I wasn’t blown away.
January 20, 2021
The concept was nice. I felt like the plot took over the actual relationship. I wish we knew more about his two friends (maybe that's what series are for). It just felt like it wasn't enough. It was good but not great.
February 16, 2021
I love Andrew Grey’s books. He’s become one of my favorite authors, but for some reason, this one just wasn’t doing it for me. I just didn’t seem to get into it. I think there were too many characters. It was interesting, there’s that - but just not one I really got into.
December 5, 2021
Wow
Another beautiful story by Andrew Grey. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat! The drama and suspense is heart pounding but the heat is so good and HOT! With an amazing HEA too. Loved it.
Another beautiful story by Andrew Grey. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat! The drama and suspense is heart pounding but the heat is so good and HOT! With an amazing HEA too. Loved it.
September 15, 2022
Andrew Grey is a master at creating compelling characters. I wanted nothing more than for Richard, Gerome, Terrance and Daniel to all get their happy endings. And this plot was so fun, even downright intense at times!
November 15, 2020
Good caper story. It will be fun to read about the two friends finding love (Terrance and Gerome.)
December 31, 2020
3.5 stars
June 26, 2021
Entertaining Story
Another captivating story from Andrew Grey. I loved these three ex-mobsters as they try to live a !heal life. Not easy.
Another captivating story from Andrew Grey. I loved these three ex-mobsters as they try to live a !heal life. Not easy.
August 18, 2021
2.5* Fue entretenida de a ratos pero bastante superficial a pesar del intenso drama que tenia la trama.
January 2, 2022
I like the premise, I like the characters, and the writing isn't awful but it isn't great either. The dialogue is pretty clunky and filled with exposition.
March 9, 2024
True to the Title
A well crafted storyline supported by good character and plot development, a few action scenes and tense moments, and then an ending promising a future HEA.
A well crafted storyline supported by good character and plot development, a few action scenes and tense moments, and then an ending promising a future HEA.
December 9, 2025
With this series, Grey creates a beautiful interconnectedness, a community of fabulous characters who each get a turn to tell their story with the added reader bonus of familiarity. Every entry in the Bad To Be series gives one of the three main protagonists a spotlight to showcase their distinctive personality, role within their friendship group, complex relationship to love and sex, and the unique way each man interacts with their intended paramour.
What stood out most for me in this first novel of the Bad To Be series is the theme of “you can’t go home again.” Both Richard and Daniel feel this, though for different reasons. Richard’s former life of power is gone, lingering only as a haunting memory. Daniel, estranged from his family over their rejection of his sexuality and his son, knows he can’t return to the life he once had, even when pieces of it resurface. Yet he recognizes that every change—chosen or imposed—has shaped a more fulfilling present. Likewise, Richard realizes that, despite the excitement of his mob past, it cannot compare to the personal growth he has experienced since leaving it. His newfound capacity for romantic love, and even a fatherly role, shows him that caring for others beyond his "brothers" brings a sense of purpose he never expected.
Read my full, unabridged review of the series on my BLOG at www.ryanlawrenceauthor.ca
What stood out most for me in this first novel of the Bad To Be series is the theme of “you can’t go home again.” Both Richard and Daniel feel this, though for different reasons. Richard’s former life of power is gone, lingering only as a haunting memory. Daniel, estranged from his family over their rejection of his sexuality and his son, knows he can’t return to the life he once had, even when pieces of it resurface. Yet he recognizes that every change—chosen or imposed—has shaped a more fulfilling present. Likewise, Richard realizes that, despite the excitement of his mob past, it cannot compare to the personal growth he has experienced since leaving it. His newfound capacity for romantic love, and even a fatherly role, shows him that caring for others beyond his "brothers" brings a sense of purpose he never expected.
Read my full, unabridged review of the series on my BLOG at www.ryanlawrenceauthor.ca
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews