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Bishop Security #2
Illicit Intent
Calliope Garland’s newsdesk assignment was fairly straightforward—dig up the dirt on the sketchy CEO of a Wall Street hedge fund. But when the man is murdered and valuable data destroyed, a simple investigation turns deadly. Calliope is unwittingly in possession of vital financial information and a priceless work of art; either of which may get her killed. With an ever-growing list of people who want to harm her, Calliope must set aside her reservations and turn to the one man she knows can trust.
Miller “Tox” Buchanan is a study in contradictions: kind but lethal, passionate but distant, self-possessed yet hesitant. He knows he should keep his distance, but when Calliope is hurled into danger, Tox will stop at nothing to protect her.
...Her first instinct wasn’t to dial 911 but rather to call a certain Navy SEAL. She forced down the antiquated damsel in distress fantasy floating around in her head and rationalized the police would surely ask questions she was unwilling or unable to answer. She brought up her contacts. At the bottom, she touched the entry labeled, Tox, and the call rang through. A grizzly bear answered.
“This better be good.”
“Tox?”
“Calliope?”
“I need your help...”
Be advised: this story contains scenes of violence equivalent to an R-rated movie and explicit sexual situations.
Miller “Tox” Buchanan is a study in contradictions: kind but lethal, passionate but distant, self-possessed yet hesitant. He knows he should keep his distance, but when Calliope is hurled into danger, Tox will stop at nothing to protect her.
...Her first instinct wasn’t to dial 911 but rather to call a certain Navy SEAL. She forced down the antiquated damsel in distress fantasy floating around in her head and rationalized the police would surely ask questions she was unwilling or unable to answer. She brought up her contacts. At the bottom, she touched the entry labeled, Tox, and the call rang through. A grizzly bear answered.
“This better be good.”
“Tox?”
“Calliope?”
“I need your help...”
Be advised: this story contains scenes of violence equivalent to an R-rated movie and explicit sexual situations.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
178 people are currently reading
1526 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Baldwin
7 books333 followersDebbie Baldwin is a successful print media and television writer. She is a graduate of Princeton University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
Debbie and her husband live in Saint Louis, Missouri with their puggle, Pebbles. They have three children in college. False Front is her first novel.
Be sure to follow Debbie on BookBub for the latest on new releases and sales:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/debbi...
Debbie and her husband live in Saint Louis, Missouri with their puggle, Pebbles. They have three children in college. False Front is her first novel.
Be sure to follow Debbie on BookBub for the latest on new releases and sales:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/debbi...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
March 23, 2021
Calliope Garland is a reporter for The Harlem Sentry and her latest assignment is to infiltrate the business of a dubious hedge fund manager who is suspected to be less than what he appears. As she’s within seconds of completing her mission and ready to leave the building, things suddenly go crazily haywire. Calliope makes it out but not before encountering several others who will later recall her. Fortunately, on her way out she literally runs into Miller (Tox) Buchanan, a Bishop Security operative who’s making his own escape from a nearby op and sweeps her into his waiting getaway car.
Well, that beginning swept me up and the story never let go. Tox and Calliope met earlier in the first book when she adopted his foster dog. It was the briefest of encounters but memorable to both. It soon becomes clear that Calliope isn’t safe because there are a host of others interested in what she took from the hedge fund office, stuff she’s aware of and some she’s not. The story gets really twisty and even though we know the identity of those interested in finding her, we don’t know why.
There are so many layers here that when you think you’ve got them patched together, another hole opens up that merits consideration. It’s an international story that reaches back decades to give background. At first I thought that would be the least interesting but it didn’t take long for me to look forward to those transitions. But as fascinating as the mystery and suspense element was, the burgeoning relationship between Calliope and Tox surpassed my expectations. Both have unique personalities and backstories that make them interesting in their own right but as a couple they were off the charts. Nothing predictable with these two and their path to commitment was fun to experience.
This is one of the most imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time and I really hated seeing it end. To give more details would lessen the excitement and thrills for you that I got to experience firsthand. I normally am dying to solve the mystery but here? I just liked being along for the most incredible ride!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Well, that beginning swept me up and the story never let go. Tox and Calliope met earlier in the first book when she adopted his foster dog. It was the briefest of encounters but memorable to both. It soon becomes clear that Calliope isn’t safe because there are a host of others interested in what she took from the hedge fund office, stuff she’s aware of and some she’s not. The story gets really twisty and even though we know the identity of those interested in finding her, we don’t know why.
There are so many layers here that when you think you’ve got them patched together, another hole opens up that merits consideration. It’s an international story that reaches back decades to give background. At first I thought that would be the least interesting but it didn’t take long for me to look forward to those transitions. But as fascinating as the mystery and suspense element was, the burgeoning relationship between Calliope and Tox surpassed my expectations. Both have unique personalities and backstories that make them interesting in their own right but as a couple they were off the charts. Nothing predictable with these two and their path to commitment was fun to experience.
This is one of the most imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time and I really hated seeing it end. To give more details would lessen the excitement and thrills for you that I got to experience firsthand. I normally am dying to solve the mystery but here? I just liked being along for the most incredible ride!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
January 23, 2023
**I was provided with an ARC for an honest review**
This series is pretty easy to enjoy with its creative Military mystery shenanigans but could be just as easy to hate on with hallmark syndrome
So Imma review this as a fun romantic suspense book that didn't take itself seriously
I really enjoyed this book more than the first one because the Characters actually wanted to engage with each other. AND THERE WAS A FUCKING TRANS* PROSTITUTE, SHE WAS HILARIOUS
Miller “Tox” Buchanan, the Navy Seal with a dark past... no seriously haha
Calliope Garland, the free spirit investigating journalist. She has lived everywhere and just never really had times for friends or ties.. till the Bishop Security Boiiiis
The majority of the book focuses on how she starts to feel part of the team, and I loved the dynamic of this group! She began to find the camaraderie and friendship she severely missed traveling the world.
BUT THAT HANDSHAKE! A GODDAMN HANDSHAKE GUYS!
The absolute gem of this book is we get some real development occurring *yay*
Contrasting with the ice queen of the first book, Calliope was a warm summer breeze. As readers, we really got to know our heroine better which I adore. She shares her dreams and jobs which creatively built up to the military badass mystery plot of the book itself
We interact with the Bishop Security group more, which really allowed for more development of those characters individually and as a group
This book totally addressed some character connection lacking in the first book by giving both more spotlight, showing how both characters clearly want each other and hate their distance but aren't sure how to connect
The mystery
For fun romantic suspense, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of plot and built-up. There were like 3 different mysteries going on!
It kinda felt like telenovela-worthy mysteries that leave you wanting more. The Bishop Security has a unique backstory that I’m excited to see how it's developed. The romance isn’t a total smut fest *bummer* and there are some lines that are pretty fucking funny.
"Need a lift?” Steady smiles from the passenger seat
Tox grinned, "We could probably walk. That fucker is big as a glacier and twice as slow"
"Not his bullets, dipshit let’s go"
A real strong female lead, great-world building, and unique side characters that each added to the story that FORESHADOWS FOR LATER BOOKS! its just so beautiful *chef's kiss*
The critiques
I struggled with the POVs. The story is told in the third person. And it switched characters *quite* often to cover all the events happening AROUND our MCs. Which was great at times as lili snippets to provide info ... But when I was ready to go back to our main story-- we had yet another side plot to address
I really kinda hate when some authors try to give EVERY friggeeenn character a chapter with their POVs *it’s 2 much please stawp*
Overall.
Well-fucking done. Everything I saw potential in the first book -- the unique premise, the fun characters, and pacing --was strengthened in this second book. But more importantly, the author clearly worked on some of the failings of the first book. Where the heroine's personality of the first book felt like ice and lacked connection, the second book worked to strengthen the reader's connection with our MCs. Where the first book felt overwhelming with all these names of people I’ve never friggen met and the heroine didn't know either, the second book purposefully showed how these characters are connected to each other and have a group dynamic. That's the sign of a damn good writer who is able to adapt and continually improve so that the writing style can accurately showcase the dynamic characters and dangerous plot they want it to.
It was just a really good, borderline dark, romance-driven by mystery development and some sexy sexy fun times that I recommend checking out if you just want a fun love story with danger imma marine overtones.
Also just an FYI, this is NOT a sequel!! The Bishop Security books are set in the same universe but are individual stories and don't need to be read in order ...
This series is pretty easy to enjoy with its creative Military mystery shenanigans but could be just as easy to hate on with hallmark syndrome
So Imma review this as a fun romantic suspense book that didn't take itself seriously
I really enjoyed this book more than the first one because the Characters actually wanted to engage with each other. AND THERE WAS A FUCKING TRANS* PROSTITUTE, SHE WAS HILARIOUS
Miller “Tox” Buchanan, the Navy Seal with a dark past... no seriously haha
Calliope Garland, the free spirit investigating journalist. She has lived everywhere and just never really had times for friends or ties.. till the Bishop Security Boiiiis
The majority of the book focuses on how she starts to feel part of the team, and I loved the dynamic of this group! She began to find the camaraderie and friendship she severely missed traveling the world.
BUT THAT HANDSHAKE! A GODDAMN HANDSHAKE GUYS!
The absolute gem of this book is we get some real development occurring *yay*
Contrasting with the ice queen of the first book, Calliope was a warm summer breeze. As readers, we really got to know our heroine better which I adore. She shares her dreams and jobs which creatively built up to the military badass mystery plot of the book itself
We interact with the Bishop Security group more, which really allowed for more development of those characters individually and as a group
This book totally addressed some character connection lacking in the first book by giving both more spotlight, showing how both characters clearly want each other and hate their distance but aren't sure how to connect
The mystery
For fun romantic suspense, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of plot and built-up. There were like 3 different mysteries going on!
It kinda felt like telenovela-worthy mysteries that leave you wanting more. The Bishop Security has a unique backstory that I’m excited to see how it's developed. The romance isn’t a total smut fest *bummer* and there are some lines that are pretty fucking funny.
"Need a lift?” Steady smiles from the passenger seat
Tox grinned, "We could probably walk. That fucker is big as a glacier and twice as slow"
"Not his bullets, dipshit let’s go"
A real strong female lead, great-world building, and unique side characters that each added to the story that FORESHADOWS FOR LATER BOOKS! its just so beautiful *chef's kiss*
The critiques
I struggled with the POVs. The story is told in the third person. And it switched characters *quite* often to cover all the events happening AROUND our MCs. Which was great at times as lili snippets to provide info ... But when I was ready to go back to our main story-- we had yet another side plot to address
I really kinda hate when some authors try to give EVERY friggeeenn character a chapter with their POVs *it’s 2 much please stawp*
Overall.
Well-fucking done. Everything I saw potential in the first book -- the unique premise, the fun characters, and pacing --was strengthened in this second book. But more importantly, the author clearly worked on some of the failings of the first book. Where the heroine's personality of the first book felt like ice and lacked connection, the second book worked to strengthen the reader's connection with our MCs. Where the first book felt overwhelming with all these names of people I’ve never friggen met and the heroine didn't know either, the second book purposefully showed how these characters are connected to each other and have a group dynamic. That's the sign of a damn good writer who is able to adapt and continually improve so that the writing style can accurately showcase the dynamic characters and dangerous plot they want it to.
It was just a really good, borderline dark, romance-driven by mystery development and some sexy sexy fun times that I recommend checking out if you just want a fun love story with danger imma marine overtones.
Also just an FYI, this is NOT a sequel!! The Bishop Security books are set in the same universe but are individual stories and don't need to be read in order ...
January 28, 2021
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Illicit Intent is my first book from Debbie Baldwin but it will definitely not be my last. To say the least, this book captivated me from the very beginning. Right away we were thrust into a mystery that had me gripping the book and leaning closer as if I could somehow put myself into the pages to live the story along with the characters.
There was so much detail in every scene and I really enjoyed how it all played out in a way that allowed us to uncover the answers to Tox and Calliope's questions as the story progressed. It left me wanting more with every turn of the page and there were a lot of shocking discoveries that I never would have guessed.
On top of the brilliant suspense that this book had we also had an adorable romance between Tox and Calliope. Tox was such a lovable guy, his vulnerabilities were right there on the page for us to see and it made me fall for him so fast. I thought it was fun how he tried to hold himself back from getting too attached to Calliope but in the end there was just no denying their connection. Especially not when Calliope was such a fun and easygoing woman and yet wouldn't let Tox run from her.
Overall, this is a definite must read and I can't wait to get more from this group. I'm excited to go back and read the first in the series but I'm also dying to see what happens next with a certain chameleon-like character.
Copy kindly provided by the author.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Illicit Intent is my first book from Debbie Baldwin but it will definitely not be my last. To say the least, this book captivated me from the very beginning. Right away we were thrust into a mystery that had me gripping the book and leaning closer as if I could somehow put myself into the pages to live the story along with the characters.
There was so much detail in every scene and I really enjoyed how it all played out in a way that allowed us to uncover the answers to Tox and Calliope's questions as the story progressed. It left me wanting more with every turn of the page and there were a lot of shocking discoveries that I never would have guessed.
On top of the brilliant suspense that this book had we also had an adorable romance between Tox and Calliope. Tox was such a lovable guy, his vulnerabilities were right there on the page for us to see and it made me fall for him so fast. I thought it was fun how he tried to hold himself back from getting too attached to Calliope but in the end there was just no denying their connection. Especially not when Calliope was such a fun and easygoing woman and yet wouldn't let Tox run from her.
Overall, this is a definite must read and I can't wait to get more from this group. I'm excited to go back and read the first in the series but I'm also dying to see what happens next with a certain chameleon-like character.
Copy kindly provided by the author.
January 3, 2025
So I really hated that I was struggling so much with this story.. I love this series, based on my book 1 experience. And I want to keep reading the series. But this particular story was just too all over the place for me. With the constant present day dates, & flash back dates with so many different characters involved in the story alongside the present characters, it was dizzying and difficult to stay focused and aware of what was actually going on.
Plus Calliope and Tox, IMO, were being pushed out of their own story because of ALL that's occurring around them. I needed to know how this was going to turn out, but it was difficult to stay engaged because of all of that I mentioned above...
But then around the 70% mark something magical happened. The story became more focused and alongside that, more heart was making itself known in the midst of the chaos with all the characters involved. I was riveted. Biting my nails. Laughing and just completely consumed by all that was occurring.
Though I knew the big reveal regarding Caleb, very early on within the story. That encounter in the street with Tox and Calliope (while in the old man disguise) gave it away... Though I knew at that point what the truth was, watching the journey unfold regarding this, wasn't any less exciting to see. 😍
Though I have to be honest and say I was really wanting more where Tox and Calliope are concerned. I love them together, so I'm greedy. And Tox, as intense of guy he is, and some that was revealed about him here, I was expecting to be more consumed by him. We are told at every turn just how intense he is, but what we were shown was a very controlled Warrior when it came to him unleashing things.
I just wanted more with him. I love him. And I love the dynamic with he and Calliope. Which is why I expected way more heat/passion in all things concerning them...
This wound up being a great read for me. I'm so glad I stayed put... The details of the yet solved Art heist, that this book is based on, were superbly implemented within this story
Based on books one and two, I would recommend this series.
Thank you Ms. Baldwin for my complimentary copy of this read. All views and opinions written on this review are my own
Plus Calliope and Tox, IMO, were being pushed out of their own story because of ALL that's occurring around them. I needed to know how this was going to turn out, but it was difficult to stay engaged because of all of that I mentioned above...
But then around the 70% mark something magical happened. The story became more focused and alongside that, more heart was making itself known in the midst of the chaos with all the characters involved. I was riveted. Biting my nails. Laughing and just completely consumed by all that was occurring.
Though I knew the big reveal regarding Caleb, very early on within the story. That encounter in the street with Tox and Calliope (while in the old man disguise) gave it away... Though I knew at that point what the truth was, watching the journey unfold regarding this, wasn't any less exciting to see. 😍
Though I have to be honest and say I was really wanting more where Tox and Calliope are concerned. I love them together, so I'm greedy. And Tox, as intense of guy he is, and some that was revealed about him here, I was expecting to be more consumed by him. We are told at every turn just how intense he is, but what we were shown was a very controlled Warrior when it came to him unleashing things.
I just wanted more with him. I love him. And I love the dynamic with he and Calliope. Which is why I expected way more heat/passion in all things concerning them...
This wound up being a great read for me. I'm so glad I stayed put... The details of the yet solved Art heist, that this book is based on, were superbly implemented within this story
Based on books one and two, I would recommend this series.
Thank you Ms. Baldwin for my complimentary copy of this read. All views and opinions written on this review are my own
February 10, 2021
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author in exchange for an fair and honest review.
There is enough plot in this book for at least three, make that four, books by any other author. And, the wrap up - a thing of beauty. I am beyond impressed by this book. Now, the romance. Holy God of Romance. It is hot, sweet, intense and just wonderful. As the second in the series, I just don't see how it can get any better, but I can't wait for the next one. Who will it be? I don't care, I just want it to be soon.
Calliope Garland has lived and traveled the world over and just doesn't want to set any roots in any specific place. She keeps her friends superficial and her lovers short term. Until . . . she meets and gets to know Emily and the Bishop Security Boys. She is working undercover for her Internet newspaper and has just downloaded vital financial information and crashed the company's system when shortly after Calliope's exit the man under investigation, a unscrupulous hedge fund manager, is shot dead. Calliope, unknowingly, also took with her priceless works of art. When she realizes she is definitely on someone's hit list she contacts the only person she trusts to keep her safe.
Miller “Tox” Buchanan is a big former Nave SEAL with a lot of issues when it comes to women. He knows he must stay away from Calliope, but he can't when he knows she could be in danger. Protecting her trumps even his self preservation. At first everyone thought it was just the financial information the baddies wanted, but after they discover the priceless art Calliope inadvertently also took, things are suddenly not so clear cut. Figuring this all out causes Calliope and Tox to face some intense issued from their pasts and the only way through is to work together.
There is enough plot in this book for at least three, make that four, books by any other author. And, the wrap up - a thing of beauty. I am beyond impressed by this book. Now, the romance. Holy God of Romance. It is hot, sweet, intense and just wonderful. As the second in the series, I just don't see how it can get any better, but I can't wait for the next one. Who will it be? I don't care, I just want it to be soon.
Calliope Garland has lived and traveled the world over and just doesn't want to set any roots in any specific place. She keeps her friends superficial and her lovers short term. Until . . . she meets and gets to know Emily and the Bishop Security Boys. She is working undercover for her Internet newspaper and has just downloaded vital financial information and crashed the company's system when shortly after Calliope's exit the man under investigation, a unscrupulous hedge fund manager, is shot dead. Calliope, unknowingly, also took with her priceless works of art. When she realizes she is definitely on someone's hit list she contacts the only person she trusts to keep her safe.
Miller “Tox” Buchanan is a big former Nave SEAL with a lot of issues when it comes to women. He knows he must stay away from Calliope, but he can't when he knows she could be in danger. Protecting her trumps even his self preservation. At first everyone thought it was just the financial information the baddies wanted, but after they discover the priceless art Calliope inadvertently also took, things are suddenly not so clear cut. Figuring this all out causes Calliope and Tox to face some intense issued from their pasts and the only way through is to work together.
January 19, 2021
What a ride! This takes me back to the Sandra Brown/Linda Howard romantic suspense era.
This book has 2-3 mysteries to solve, and the author does a great job of having the reader know just a little bit more than the mc's, so it's fun to follow along with their discoveries, yet she throws in some truly surprising twists and turns. Usually I have a good idea of who "the bad guy" is, but with so much going on in this book, certain characters still managed to jump outside the box their characters were heading in. I'm not one to try to solve books as I read them, but sometimes it's obvious and unavoidable, so it's awesome to read a book and be honestly surprised by something. Good job, author!
And the romance! The romance was really, really enjoyable. The ending was incredibly sweet. The history of the hero is something I've never seen in a romance before, and he dealt with it properly and believably. I'll spoilerize that below if anyone wants to know, we find out about it pretty early. As for the heroine, this one could think on her feet was great at getting herself out of tight situations, yet still counted on the hero to protect her when she needed it. I really liked her. She was the perfect mix of not letting the hero run away when they got too close, but didn't cling on to him at all.
Hero's crazy spoiler:
This book has 2-3 mysteries to solve, and the author does a great job of having the reader know just a little bit more than the mc's, so it's fun to follow along with their discoveries, yet she throws in some truly surprising twists and turns. Usually I have a good idea of who "the bad guy" is, but with so much going on in this book, certain characters still managed to jump outside the box their characters were heading in. I'm not one to try to solve books as I read them, but sometimes it's obvious and unavoidable, so it's awesome to read a book and be honestly surprised by something. Good job, author!
And the romance! The romance was really, really enjoyable. The ending was incredibly sweet. The history of the hero is something I've never seen in a romance before, and he dealt with it properly and believably. I'll spoilerize that below if anyone wants to know, we find out about it pretty early. As for the heroine, this one could think on her feet was great at getting herself out of tight situations, yet still counted on the hero to protect her when she needed it. I really liked her. She was the perfect mix of not letting the hero run away when they got too close, but didn't cling on to him at all.
Hero's crazy spoiler:
July 31, 2021
Reporter Calliope Garland has gone undercover in the office of a Hedge Fund Billionaire that she believes may be a con artist who is stealing the life savings of many unsuspecting people. As she is downloading files to a flash drive, Calliope sets off security and the program starts deleting everything. Taking the information with her and escaping from the building, Calliope unwittingly leaves with some other items valued in the millions. When mysterious men begin following her and breaking into her house, she turns to Miller "Tox" Buchanan, a member of Bishop Security and the guy she's been daydreaming about since she met him. Together they must figure out exactly what these men are looking for while staying a few steps ahead of the bad guys.
The second book in the Bishop Security series tops the first. This is a fast-paced romantic suspense story with not one but two groups that are trying to retrieve something that Calliope has. There was a good balance between the romance and the suspense portions of the story. The characters were well-developed. Calliope is a free spirit who seemingly flits from job to job. Tox is a big guy with a sweet personality. Both have things that have happened to them in the past that make them hesitant to get into a relationship. Thankfully they talk about what is holding them back and overcome these problems.
The suspense plot is riveting. There are many characters in this story and each had their own agenda. The information is given to the reader in small doses so it is easier to follow. I loved how the author incorporated a famous unsolved art theft into the story. I can't wait for the next story in this series. My rating: 5 Stars.
The second book in the Bishop Security series tops the first. This is a fast-paced romantic suspense story with not one but two groups that are trying to retrieve something that Calliope has. There was a good balance between the romance and the suspense portions of the story. The characters were well-developed. Calliope is a free spirit who seemingly flits from job to job. Tox is a big guy with a sweet personality. Both have things that have happened to them in the past that make them hesitant to get into a relationship. Thankfully they talk about what is holding them back and overcome these problems.
The suspense plot is riveting. There are many characters in this story and each had their own agenda. The information is given to the reader in small doses so it is easier to follow. I loved how the author incorporated a famous unsolved art theft into the story. I can't wait for the next story in this series. My rating: 5 Stars.
April 16, 2021
Calliope Garland is in a bit of trouble and she can’t call the police. She has some vital information that some bad guys want and another items she doesn’t even know she has. This means there are now 2 groups of bad guys after her. On instinct she calls Miller “Tox” Buchanan. Tox is a great character with many faults, but he knows he has them and doesn’t try to hide them. Well…he doesn’t try to hide all of them. He and Calliope are complete opposites that really complement each other. The chemistry between the two is immediate and intense.
The two incidents going on at the same time was a bit confusing at first. There are a lot of characters and a lot of back story. It all comes together smoothly, but it takes some concentration to keep the two different parties separate. The suspense is definitely there and the storylines are very intriguing.
Tox and his group of friends are a truly amazing group of guys. The way they joke with each other and pick on each other shows the reader how much they all mean to each other. The family compound is definitely there.
The ending is the best. The reader sees it coming, but it made my heart happy.
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
The two incidents going on at the same time was a bit confusing at first. There are a lot of characters and a lot of back story. It all comes together smoothly, but it takes some concentration to keep the two different parties separate. The suspense is definitely there and the storylines are very intriguing.
Tox and his group of friends are a truly amazing group of guys. The way they joke with each other and pick on each other shows the reader how much they all mean to each other. The family compound is definitely there.
The ending is the best. The reader sees it coming, but it made my heart happy.
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
February 8, 2021
This high-octane mystery is electrified by a fiery romance between journalist Calliope and a Navy Seal named Tox. Calliope is threatened after her boss is killed, leaving her with valuable financials, priceless art, and a growing list of enemies. She calls Tox for help, because she knows he’ll battle any foe for her, even as he copes with intense PTSD. As the action explodes, we wonder, “Will their love survive if they do?” A fine read for fans of R-rated romantic suspense.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 01 Jan 2021
#IllicitIntent #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Gatekeeper Press, and to NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 01 Jan 2021
#IllicitIntent #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Gatekeeper Press, and to NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
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April 1, 2021Hello GR readers! Thank you for supporting independent authors and sharing your wonderful finds with the rest of the Goodreads community!
Illicit Intent is the second installment in the Bishop Security series and features 6'5" Navy SEAL, Miller "Tox" Buchanan, and reporter Calliope Garland. Calliope gets in over her head when she crashes the computer network at a sketchy financial firm and unwittingly leaves with information worth billions. She also happens upon a worthless plastic tube that contains a priceless work of art. When various factions in search of both items start threatening her life, she turns to the one man she knows can protect her. Tox is regimented, closed off, and fearless. Calliope is free-spirited, open, and flighty. Opposites attract, but can opposites form a lasting bond?
The history and facts surrounding the infamous robbery of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston are all accurate. Researching the heist that has intrigued me for years was fascinating. From the descriptions of the Boston architecture to the patrol shifts of the Boston police, everything is described very nearly as it was on the night of March 18, 1990—with my own fictional twist thrown in. I hope you enjoy reading Illicit Intent as much as I enjoyed writing it!
Here's what the GR community is saying about Illicit Intent:
Laur Laur: "What a ride! This takes me back to the Sandra Brown/Linda Howard romantic suspense era."
Anita: "Now, the romance. Holy God of Romance. It is hot, sweet, intense and just wonderful."
DemetraP: "The mystery part is wonderful and the romance made me smile and had some hot scenes. You really believed they fell in love."
Jonetta: "This is one of the most imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time and I really hated seeing it end."
Victoria Sturlini: "OMG!!!! WHAT A RIVETING STORY!!!!"
Illicit Intent is the second installment in the Bishop Security series and features 6'5" Navy SEAL, Miller "Tox" Buchanan, and reporter Calliope Garland. Calliope gets in over her head when she crashes the computer network at a sketchy financial firm and unwittingly leaves with information worth billions. She also happens upon a worthless plastic tube that contains a priceless work of art. When various factions in search of both items start threatening her life, she turns to the one man she knows can protect her. Tox is regimented, closed off, and fearless. Calliope is free-spirited, open, and flighty. Opposites attract, but can opposites form a lasting bond?
The history and facts surrounding the infamous robbery of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston are all accurate. Researching the heist that has intrigued me for years was fascinating. From the descriptions of the Boston architecture to the patrol shifts of the Boston police, everything is described very nearly as it was on the night of March 18, 1990—with my own fictional twist thrown in. I hope you enjoy reading Illicit Intent as much as I enjoyed writing it!
Here's what the GR community is saying about Illicit Intent:
Laur Laur: "What a ride! This takes me back to the Sandra Brown/Linda Howard romantic suspense era."
Anita: "Now, the romance. Holy God of Romance. It is hot, sweet, intense and just wonderful."
DemetraP: "The mystery part is wonderful and the romance made me smile and had some hot scenes. You really believed they fell in love."
Jonetta: "This is one of the most imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time and I really hated seeing it end."
Victoria Sturlini: "OMG!!!! WHAT A RIVETING STORY!!!!"
January 20, 2021
I loved book 1 so much. I was excited to read a sequel featuring a different couple.
I finished Illicit Intent and it was really great. The plot kept me guessing.
I was a bit concerned at the start because the heroine seemed stupid (she's undercover as a reporter yet carries her real driver's license?) She's running away with a stolen flash drive and runs into a person on the sidewalk?
But the heroine made up for it later on in the book. The hero was so amazing and I just adored him.
Hero is in therapy for being too clingy in relationships and it's so funny how he tries not to be clingy with her.
The mystery part is wonderful and the romance made me smile and had some hot scenes. You really believed they fell in love.
I finished Illicit Intent and it was really great. The plot kept me guessing.
I was a bit concerned at the start because the heroine seemed stupid (she's undercover as a reporter yet carries her real driver's license?) She's running away with a stolen flash drive and runs into a person on the sidewalk?
But the heroine made up for it later on in the book. The hero was so amazing and I just adored him.
Hero is in therapy for being too clingy in relationships and it's so funny how he tries not to be clingy with her.
The mystery part is wonderful and the romance made me smile and had some hot scenes. You really believed they fell in love.
May 17, 2021
Illicit Intent by Debbie Baldwin is book 2 in her Bishop Security Series. The author provides enough back-story that this book can be read as a standalone. This suspenseful, thrilling and mysterious ride comes complete with a side of sweetly blossoming romance. There are multiple story lines that intertwine, overlap and then separate. There is truly enough intrigue to fill multiple novels, along with several surprise reveals. Calliope and Miller were perfect for each other. I loved their interactions and watching their romance grow. Who doesn’t love a hero that’s a big strong protective teddy bear who can turn into a grizzly when the situation warrants? The writer’s descriptive flare had me feel as if I was literally watching a movie in my head. The buddy banter is laugh out loud funny and you can truly feel the camaraderie within this group. This reader is eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
May 11, 2021
This is book two in this series. Calliope is a reporter investigating a hedge fund. The deeper she digs the more she is in danger. This was a multi layered story with twists and the suspense keep me up late reading it. I love crime fiction and the spicy romantic suspense along with it is what really pulled me in. I haven't read book one but I'm looking forward to going to back as I want to learn the begining of Calliope and Tox the Navy seal. A worthy read on so many levels.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
April 5, 2021
4/5
I really enjoyed this romantic suspense story. I thought it was a bit stronger than book 1.
I really enjoyed this romantic suspense story. I thought it was a bit stronger than book 1.
April 19, 2021
Baldwin delivers another outstanding thriller, the second in the Bishop Security series, complete with engaging dialogue and sizzling romance.
When a fairly straightforward news desk assignment for Calliope Garland ends up in her destroying valuable data, she doesn’t think much of the incident. But the man is found murdered the next morning, and there is an ever-growing list of people who want to harm Calliope. Setting aside her reservations, Calliope turns to the troubled Miller “Tox” Buchanan, a former Navy Seal. With the danger escalating for Calliope, Tox must do everything in his power to protect her.
Baldwin brings every element of a must-read romantic thriller to the table: intriguing mystery, powerful, magnetic characters, tight plotting, and intoxicating chemistry. Tox is beguiling, old-fashioned both in his dealings and guts, and even though readers know he has to triumph, they don't want to miss a word. Relentless and laidback at once, Calliope is fun, an odd match for the utterly cautious, rough-around-the-edges and yet vulnerable Tox. But their underlying chemistry is smashing, keeping readers invested in the pair’s slowly developed, convincing romance.
Despite a plethora of mystery subplots, the suspense never falters, and the narrative is both fast and wildly entertaining. The novel works both as a contemporary romance and a high-octane thriller—and fans of both genres will welcome this roller-coaster ride. Expert pacing, characters readers can root for, and a twisty mystery plot make this a winner.
Baldwin knows how to entertain.
When a fairly straightforward news desk assignment for Calliope Garland ends up in her destroying valuable data, she doesn’t think much of the incident. But the man is found murdered the next morning, and there is an ever-growing list of people who want to harm Calliope. Setting aside her reservations, Calliope turns to the troubled Miller “Tox” Buchanan, a former Navy Seal. With the danger escalating for Calliope, Tox must do everything in his power to protect her.
Baldwin brings every element of a must-read romantic thriller to the table: intriguing mystery, powerful, magnetic characters, tight plotting, and intoxicating chemistry. Tox is beguiling, old-fashioned both in his dealings and guts, and even though readers know he has to triumph, they don't want to miss a word. Relentless and laidback at once, Calliope is fun, an odd match for the utterly cautious, rough-around-the-edges and yet vulnerable Tox. But their underlying chemistry is smashing, keeping readers invested in the pair’s slowly developed, convincing romance.
Despite a plethora of mystery subplots, the suspense never falters, and the narrative is both fast and wildly entertaining. The novel works both as a contemporary romance and a high-octane thriller—and fans of both genres will welcome this roller-coaster ride. Expert pacing, characters readers can root for, and a twisty mystery plot make this a winner.
Baldwin knows how to entertain.
April 26, 2021
Debbie Baldwin, the author of “Illicit Intent” has written a captivating, steamy, edgy, and action-filled novel. The genres for this book are Suspense, Mystery, Heated Romance, and Fiction. The timeline is written in the author’s present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in the story. The author describes her characters as complex, and complicated. I highly recommend this intriguing, high-powered adventure and mystery for readers that enjoy these genres. I love the way the author vividly describes her “alpha males” and other characters. Of course, there is a loveable dog, and a moody cat, for animal lovers.
Be prepared for some suspenseful surprises that I certainly did not see. Not everyone is who you will think they are. There are plot twists, danger, betrayals, art theft, lost money, threats, and murder!
Calliope Garland, one of the protagonists in the story is looking into something for her newspaper, and investigating information that puts her in immediate danger, and in touch with some interesting characters. She is now on a “Hit List” for several people that want to kill her. What a way to be popular! When she leaves she bumps into a man “Tox” which is very important to Calliope and the events in the story.
There are several suspects, much danger, anticipation, and surprises that you won’t want to miss!
Be prepared for some suspenseful surprises that I certainly did not see. Not everyone is who you will think they are. There are plot twists, danger, betrayals, art theft, lost money, threats, and murder!
Calliope Garland, one of the protagonists in the story is looking into something for her newspaper, and investigating information that puts her in immediate danger, and in touch with some interesting characters. She is now on a “Hit List” for several people that want to kill her. What a way to be popular! When she leaves she bumps into a man “Tox” which is very important to Calliope and the events in the story.
There are several suspects, much danger, anticipation, and surprises that you won’t want to miss!
Read
May 13, 2021This book just has so many amazing aspects that are rolled all together into one amazing book. So, to say the least, this is an entertaining story that will leave you hooked and waiting for more. And while this book is a part of a series, you can read them out of order or pick and choose which ones you want to read! So don’t worry if you’re new to the series, but you also might as well just grab the first because you’ll want to read it anyways.
This story has twists and turns and an amazing story throughout. But, T=the plot to this story isn’t the only amazing things. The characters are also really well developed. I found myself loving each and every character as I met them and wanted to learn more and more about them. And while there is so much packed into this story it’s written so well that you don’t even realize how much was put into this story until you finish.
So, as you can see I really loved this one. It’s just such a well written book that I couldn’t help but fall in love with it.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
This story has twists and turns and an amazing story throughout. But, T=the plot to this story isn’t the only amazing things. The characters are also really well developed. I found myself loving each and every character as I met them and wanted to learn more and more about them. And while there is so much packed into this story it’s written so well that you don’t even realize how much was put into this story until you finish.
So, as you can see I really loved this one. It’s just such a well written book that I couldn’t help but fall in love with it.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
January 30, 2021
3.5 stars
While I admire the author’s ambition for an elaborate plot, with so much going on, the connection to the two main characters were suffocated by the space it took up in this book. Because of this, I never made an emotional connection to Tox or Calliope and it didn’t feel like they did with each other either. It almost had me wondering if the book would have been better without their relationship. Instead of weaving its way through the story, the romance felt tacked on and not properly thought-out.
Calliope’s boss is murdered just seconds after she leaves him and when she finds out she and Tox go climb a tree. We never know if she is fearful for her own safety or shocked or gives a crap that there was such extreme violence so close to her. Neither one of them have much of a character ARC outside of the fact that they start single and end up together. Most of their attraction was told instead of shown and once they do get together all they really do is have sex. When Tox’s “bear” is finally unleashed, it’s just kinda ‘mheh’ and I found myself skimming the sex scenes. For all the hype of him letting his badass out of a cage, I expected a little more imagination.
It felt like this book wanted to be a thriller in the style in which it was written but it jumps around too much and at times I found myself thinking I’d just read several pages that didn’t have anything to do with actually moving the plot forward. I get that this was book two of a series, but there were entire chapters that were unnecessary which made reading it tedious in stead of page-turning. With all the POVs we are asked to be kept track of, plus all the characters and their double names my head was spinning. For example, I didn’t really need to know about Emily and Nathan, that could have been in an epilogue of their book.
I was happy to see that the book was edited, but I wonder just how much it was. Obviously the author has a firm grip on the English language—it’s really that and my respect for keeping track of all her loose threads that are keeping this rating at a solid 3.5 stars—but there were a lot of word echos and the constantly changing POV felt more like a head hops than an effective way to narrate.
Overall, if the two main characters would have been more front and center and had deeper POVs without head-hopping in the same scene, this would have passed for a stronger Romantic Suspense. But as is, it’s more of a surface Romance on one side of the plate and busy Suspense on the other.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I admire the author’s ambition for an elaborate plot, with so much going on, the connection to the two main characters were suffocated by the space it took up in this book. Because of this, I never made an emotional connection to Tox or Calliope and it didn’t feel like they did with each other either. It almost had me wondering if the book would have been better without their relationship. Instead of weaving its way through the story, the romance felt tacked on and not properly thought-out.
Calliope’s boss is murdered just seconds after she leaves him and when she finds out she and Tox go climb a tree. We never know if she is fearful for her own safety or shocked or gives a crap that there was such extreme violence so close to her. Neither one of them have much of a character ARC outside of the fact that they start single and end up together. Most of their attraction was told instead of shown and once they do get together all they really do is have sex. When Tox’s “bear” is finally unleashed, it’s just kinda ‘mheh’ and I found myself skimming the sex scenes. For all the hype of him letting his badass out of a cage, I expected a little more imagination.
It felt like this book wanted to be a thriller in the style in which it was written but it jumps around too much and at times I found myself thinking I’d just read several pages that didn’t have anything to do with actually moving the plot forward. I get that this was book two of a series, but there were entire chapters that were unnecessary which made reading it tedious in stead of page-turning. With all the POVs we are asked to be kept track of, plus all the characters and their double names my head was spinning. For example, I didn’t really need to know about Emily and Nathan, that could have been in an epilogue of their book.
I was happy to see that the book was edited, but I wonder just how much it was. Obviously the author has a firm grip on the English language—it’s really that and my respect for keeping track of all her loose threads that are keeping this rating at a solid 3.5 stars—but there were a lot of word echos and the constantly changing POV felt more like a head hops than an effective way to narrate.
Overall, if the two main characters would have been more front and center and had deeper POVs without head-hopping in the same scene, this would have passed for a stronger Romantic Suspense. But as is, it’s more of a surface Romance on one side of the plate and busy Suspense on the other.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2021
My very first impression after just starting to read was, “manipulation.” Who is manipulating who? Second would be suspenseful as you will be working to solve and answer questions, well don’t want to give it all away…. Calliope Garland is a woman of intrigue, and mystery. She is investigating a CEO for a newspaper piece when everything goes terribly wrong, to the point of murder. During Calliope’s escape she oddly runs into none other than Miller “Tox” Buchanan, a man she finds that in the moment he is the only man she would ever trust with her life. Coincidence?You see though, there might not be such a thing a coincidence, but a reason both of them were in the same place at the same time; it is just a matter when people have certain secrets you realize things are not a matter of coincidence. As the suspense built in this story, the details began to unfold, things began to heat up in other areas too. This was a definite page turner that keeps you reading to find out every little detail; you will be on the edge of your seat. Murder, fiery romance, suspense, lots of secrets revealed. It also keeps you so engaged that you want to keep going to the end and boy it is an ending you would never see coming. Wow!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2021
OMG!!!! WHAT A RIVETING STORY!!!!👍👍👍👍👍
I enjoyed this book immensely! It was the perfect romantic suspense!! The love story between Tox and Calliope was super sensual, romantic and fun to follow. I liked that they understood each other's quirks, differences and very human hang-ups and built upon them with very little angst and lots of sweet affection and passion. I enjoyed revisiting with Nathan and Emily and the rest of the Bishop Security team. It was nice to get caught up with the babies and the other wonderfully interesting characters that we met in the first book of the series! The mystery, non-stop action, twists and turns and very suspenseful happenings was off the charts!!! There were a lot of unexpected surprises that had me smiling in fascination and immense admiration at how cleverly the author had dovetailed and weaved all of the different characters and various storyline plots into one. She left me speechless and gratified with the resolution of some of the story threads that were so satisfyingly and deftly executed!!!! I highly recommend this book. It was an excellent and engrossing read. It had a uniquely unusual storyline that any mystery lover would find very enjoyable.... 😇
I enjoyed this book immensely! It was the perfect romantic suspense!! The love story between Tox and Calliope was super sensual, romantic and fun to follow. I liked that they understood each other's quirks, differences and very human hang-ups and built upon them with very little angst and lots of sweet affection and passion. I enjoyed revisiting with Nathan and Emily and the rest of the Bishop Security team. It was nice to get caught up with the babies and the other wonderfully interesting characters that we met in the first book of the series! The mystery, non-stop action, twists and turns and very suspenseful happenings was off the charts!!! There were a lot of unexpected surprises that had me smiling in fascination and immense admiration at how cleverly the author had dovetailed and weaved all of the different characters and various storyline plots into one. She left me speechless and gratified with the resolution of some of the story threads that were so satisfyingly and deftly executed!!!! I highly recommend this book. It was an excellent and engrossing read. It had a uniquely unusual storyline that any mystery lover would find very enjoyable.... 😇
April 6, 2021
Calliope is a reporter working undercover at the offices of Gentry Capital Partners investigating Phillip Van Gent, the owner of the firm. While attempting to steal computer files, a drunk Van Gent shows up in his office and starts talking to Calliope then falls asleep on the sofa in the office. Calliope grabs her flash drive and hightails it to the elevator. No sooner is she starting down when she hears what sounds like gunshots and runs out of the building, running into ex-Navy SEAL Miller Buchanan, or Tox. Calliope is chased, almost kidnapped several times, and almost shot by a sniper before the book ends. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2021
Intricate, intriguing, and a cast of characters that you want to root for - love this series!
February 4, 2021
Illicit Intent by Debbie Baldwin is the second book in the Bishop Security Series. It is not necessary to read the first book, False Front as this book is a stand-alone with different characters and not a continuation. I didn’t read False Front which is the first Bishop Security book featuring characters that are present in this book. I found that I still caught on as they are completely different characters. If you’d like to read it first, here’s the link: False Fronthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Debbie Baldwin is a new author to me. Without being given the opportunity to read Illicit Intent, I probably wouldn’t have seen this book otherwise. It’s evident from the first chapter, Debbie is an intelligent author and provides much detail in this novel. My initial excitement, however, lead to disappointment overall.
The two central characters in the romance portion of the romantic suspense are Miller (Tox) Buchanan and Calliope Garland. Calliope is working a job as a reporter on an assignment fronting as a temp employee in order to obtain information. The case itself isn’t dangerous however events occur that put Calliope in danger.
Calliope is a free spirit, likable and very open with her emotions. I really liked her character as well as Tox. Tox, is a surly former Navy SEAL. He has been through a lot but not in the way you’d think. He has more emotional depth than that of the standard “hero” as he explores his issues in this book.
I enjoyed the story of Tox and Calliope a lot. They were great together. I loved their in-depth conversations when they were getting to know each other. Being that they’ve met each other before, provided an added layer of the already sizzling chemistry.
Though the Calliope and Tox scenes were great, I felt the back and forth of the book between the past and present with all of the characters added an unnecessary level of complexity to the novel. Complexity that for me, didn’t add to the plot. I found the chapters about the past to be overkill. It could have been explained in a shorter way.
I understand that this is romantic suspense. I’ve never read a Nora Roberts novel. The blurb does state that lovers of Nora Roberts would like this book as well so perhaps this just isn’t for me.
The book went back and forth in order to provide context to the working of the plot. The suspense part of the book was a tad lackluster for me.
It would have worked better for me if the story stayed in the current timeline and still had the suspense in the background but focused more on the love story of the two main characters. The story is told in third person POV however the number of characters in the plot made it hard to follow the story line. I found myself eager for it to end to I could get to the Tox and Calliope scenes. I wanted more out of their story.
If you are looking for a suspense book, heavy on suspense, average on romance, this is your book. If you are looking for a standard romance novel, I’d look elsewhere as this has a lot of extra scenes not focused on a love story.
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Debbie Baldwin is a new author to me. Without being given the opportunity to read Illicit Intent, I probably wouldn’t have seen this book otherwise. It’s evident from the first chapter, Debbie is an intelligent author and provides much detail in this novel. My initial excitement, however, lead to disappointment overall.
The two central characters in the romance portion of the romantic suspense are Miller (Tox) Buchanan and Calliope Garland. Calliope is working a job as a reporter on an assignment fronting as a temp employee in order to obtain information. The case itself isn’t dangerous however events occur that put Calliope in danger.
Calliope is a free spirit, likable and very open with her emotions. I really liked her character as well as Tox. Tox, is a surly former Navy SEAL. He has been through a lot but not in the way you’d think. He has more emotional depth than that of the standard “hero” as he explores his issues in this book.
I enjoyed the story of Tox and Calliope a lot. They were great together. I loved their in-depth conversations when they were getting to know each other. Being that they’ve met each other before, provided an added layer of the already sizzling chemistry.
Though the Calliope and Tox scenes were great, I felt the back and forth of the book between the past and present with all of the characters added an unnecessary level of complexity to the novel. Complexity that for me, didn’t add to the plot. I found the chapters about the past to be overkill. It could have been explained in a shorter way.
I understand that this is romantic suspense. I’ve never read a Nora Roberts novel. The blurb does state that lovers of Nora Roberts would like this book as well so perhaps this just isn’t for me.
The book went back and forth in order to provide context to the working of the plot. The suspense part of the book was a tad lackluster for me.
It would have worked better for me if the story stayed in the current timeline and still had the suspense in the background but focused more on the love story of the two main characters. The story is told in third person POV however the number of characters in the plot made it hard to follow the story line. I found myself eager for it to end to I could get to the Tox and Calliope scenes. I wanted more out of their story.
If you are looking for a suspense book, heavy on suspense, average on romance, this is your book. If you are looking for a standard romance novel, I’d look elsewhere as this has a lot of extra scenes not focused on a love story.
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 13, 2023
Illicit Intent is Book two in the Bishop Security series by Debbi Balwin. Journalist Calliope Garland's new assignment was to find dirt on the CEO of a Wall Street Hedge Fund. However, before Calliope finishes digging up information about the Wall Street hedge fund, the man is murdered. Unbeknown to Calliope, she has information that the murderer needs. Calliope realized she needed help, so she contacted Miller "Tox". The readers of Illicit Intent will continue to follow Calliope and Miller to discover what happens.
Illicit Intent is the first book I have read by Debbi Balwin. I enjoyed reading Illicit Intent and had no trouble engaging with the story and the characters from the first page. I love Debbi Balwin's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine throughout this Book. Illicit Intent is well-written and researched by Debbi Balwin. I like Debbi Balwin's description of the settings of Illicit Intent, which allow me to imagine being part of the Book's plot.
The readers of Illicit Intent will understand the role of a journalist. Also, the readers of Illicit Intent will learn about the purpose of attending a Veteran's Support Group Meeting for Veterans.
I recommend this Book.
Illicit Intent is the first book I have read by Debbi Balwin. I enjoyed reading Illicit Intent and had no trouble engaging with the story and the characters from the first page. I love Debbi Balwin's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine throughout this Book. Illicit Intent is well-written and researched by Debbi Balwin. I like Debbi Balwin's description of the settings of Illicit Intent, which allow me to imagine being part of the Book's plot.
The readers of Illicit Intent will understand the role of a journalist. Also, the readers of Illicit Intent will learn about the purpose of attending a Veteran's Support Group Meeting for Veterans.
I recommend this Book.
May 26, 2021
Illicit Intent by Debbie Baldwin
Tox was the only man Calliope could trust. So, when she finds herself in danger after accepting the newsdesk assignment, Tox was the one she called. Calliope is an investigative journalist and is assigned to investigate the CEO of a wall street hedge fund. And finds herself in trouble when is murdered. She carries important financial information and a valuable piece of art, for that reason, their people after her.
Tox is a Navy Seal with a dark past. He is a great character, and he is dealing with PTSD. He is over his head with protecting Calliope they are both trying to keep their distance.
This was a suspenseful mystery with a shocking plot twist. The book starts with so many different characters, I was a bit confused and had to focus on getting to know about them. As the story picked up, the characters are developed, and the plot is complex and accessible. It is a mix of romance and suspense, and I enjoyed it.
*** This book contains scenes of violence equivalent to an R-rated movie and explicit sexual situations.
Many Thanks to Suzanne Leopold for having me on this tour.
April 6, 2021
Amazing Series
This is the second book in the Bishop Security series, and if anything it’s actually better than it’s predecessor which is saying something! It’s well written with a fast paced plot and well executed characters. Both the romance and the suspense built to a satisfying conclusion and I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
Highly recommended.
This is the second book in the Bishop Security series, and if anything it’s actually better than it’s predecessor which is saying something! It’s well written with a fast paced plot and well executed characters. Both the romance and the suspense built to a satisfying conclusion and I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
Highly recommended.
May 27, 2021
This is a high energy romantic thriller with an intricate plot, tons of action, and fast moving dialogue.
What starts as a high stakes poker game in Vegas ends up being tied to one of the biggest heists in art history with a side helping of an imposter with a Ponzi scheme causing multiple groups to go after our heroine, Calliope Garland.
There are a bunch of folks who are not who they seem and a dedicated group of ex-military guys (our hero “Tox” Buchanan is one of them) who work for a security company that focus on people safety.
Family histories and legacies are tricky in this one and play a huge roll in the book. Family history is partly to blame in why our primary characters, Calliope and Tox, shy
away from a lasting romantic relationship.
The sparks that fly between Calliope and Tox could legit start a high school pep rally bonfire which adds a nice edge to the story.
As elaborate as the whole plot was, the story was told with laser precision and everything intertwined to made this a book I couldn’t put down.
The characters are complex and their backstories well detailed and fascinating.
My favorite part in the book- how the author gives us a fictional account of the art heist in 1990 from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. This case is still unsolved and the artwork still missing in real life.
What starts as a high stakes poker game in Vegas ends up being tied to one of the biggest heists in art history with a side helping of an imposter with a Ponzi scheme causing multiple groups to go after our heroine, Calliope Garland.
There are a bunch of folks who are not who they seem and a dedicated group of ex-military guys (our hero “Tox” Buchanan is one of them) who work for a security company that focus on people safety.
Family histories and legacies are tricky in this one and play a huge roll in the book. Family history is partly to blame in why our primary characters, Calliope and Tox, shy
away from a lasting romantic relationship.
The sparks that fly between Calliope and Tox could legit start a high school pep rally bonfire which adds a nice edge to the story.
As elaborate as the whole plot was, the story was told with laser precision and everything intertwined to made this a book I couldn’t put down.
The characters are complex and their backstories well detailed and fascinating.
My favorite part in the book- how the author gives us a fictional account of the art heist in 1990 from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. This case is still unsolved and the artwork still missing in real life.
October 5, 2021
Another excellent read!
Another excellent read in the Bishop Security Series and man it was a ride. In this second addition, we get the tall, silent Tox.
Tox struggles with relationships and rule of thumb, avoids them. But the moment he meets Calliope he is struck down with attraction.
When Calliope’s work sends her on a mission for a story, she never expected it to send her life into a spiral. When her fake boss ends up dead and the killer thinks she has the key to millions, her life hangs in limbo.
There are so many players in this cat and mouse game that Tox and Calliope can’t figure out who or what is at stake. Can Tox save Calliope or will this be another failure for him?
Tox is such a complex character. His struggles are real and easy to relate to. Calliope is like a “hummingbird”. She flits around from p,ace to place and never settles down. The two of them are opposite in every way, but don’t opposites attract?
Overall this book was a fun and highly entertaining read. The characters are fantastic and have such depth. They have sweet souls and are very caring. This story had so many twists and turns it will make your head spin trying to figure out who done what for what. It is a great mystery to unravel and has a beautiful romance intricately weaved in.
I highly recommend this book and the series.
Another excellent read in the Bishop Security Series and man it was a ride. In this second addition, we get the tall, silent Tox.
Tox struggles with relationships and rule of thumb, avoids them. But the moment he meets Calliope he is struck down with attraction.
When Calliope’s work sends her on a mission for a story, she never expected it to send her life into a spiral. When her fake boss ends up dead and the killer thinks she has the key to millions, her life hangs in limbo.
There are so many players in this cat and mouse game that Tox and Calliope can’t figure out who or what is at stake. Can Tox save Calliope or will this be another failure for him?
Tox is such a complex character. His struggles are real and easy to relate to. Calliope is like a “hummingbird”. She flits around from p,ace to place and never settles down. The two of them are opposite in every way, but don’t opposites attract?
Overall this book was a fun and highly entertaining read. The characters are fantastic and have such depth. They have sweet souls and are very caring. This story had so many twists and turns it will make your head spin trying to figure out who done what for what. It is a great mystery to unravel and has a beautiful romance intricately weaved in.
I highly recommend this book and the series.
January 21, 2021
It seems forever...
This however, was completely worth the wait !
The second installment of Bishop Security, Miller, aka "Tox's" story was amazing!
I loved meeting Calliope and Tox in Nathan's and Emily's novel and Ms. Baldwin, you couldn't have picked to better characters to becone the next book in this series!
Calliope is such and amazing heroine, strong, completely unique, full of confidence, and so totally lovable!
Tox is scarred by his youth, but found home with the Navy and the Teams. He was so fun in the first book, but you have a true insight into his psyche in this novel. I loved how he ended up in the therapist's office, and his way of trying to handling his insecurities without apologies. He also is a mtn of a man who is well trained and completely perfect for a hummingbird!
The storyline was truly amazing, to paraphrase one of the minor characters, it's like a big piece of the puzzle is missing...
Well woven intricacies, which made for a great read that moved and was fun!
There were certainly moments for Calliope and Tox, but Tox let nothing stop him from letting his bear out when needed!
Ending on, love the scene where Calliope looks around Tox and says "Hi Dad.,"!
Awesome novel, I simply cannot wait for more!
Karen
This however, was completely worth the wait !
The second installment of Bishop Security, Miller, aka "Tox's" story was amazing!
I loved meeting Calliope and Tox in Nathan's and Emily's novel and Ms. Baldwin, you couldn't have picked to better characters to becone the next book in this series!
Calliope is such and amazing heroine, strong, completely unique, full of confidence, and so totally lovable!
Tox is scarred by his youth, but found home with the Navy and the Teams. He was so fun in the first book, but you have a true insight into his psyche in this novel. I loved how he ended up in the therapist's office, and his way of trying to handling his insecurities without apologies. He also is a mtn of a man who is well trained and completely perfect for a hummingbird!
The storyline was truly amazing, to paraphrase one of the minor characters, it's like a big piece of the puzzle is missing...
Well woven intricacies, which made for a great read that moved and was fun!
There were certainly moments for Calliope and Tox, but Tox let nothing stop him from letting his bear out when needed!
Ending on, love the scene where Calliope looks around Tox and says "Hi Dad.,"!
Awesome novel, I simply cannot wait for more!
Karen
February 18, 2021
This is one of those books where you really need to pay attention to the characters and how they relate to one another. Some people may call this a roller coaster, but I prefer to think of it as a good story, told well.
Calliope and Miller (Tox) are the main characters and from the beginning you know they are going to end up together. With a supporting cast of good guys, bad guys, and some that are both, you are soon caught up in a story that revolves around an art heist and a few dead bodies.
I took my time reading this one because I really wanted to keep the characters straight. I recommend it to any that want to enjoy a good story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Calliope and Miller (Tox) are the main characters and from the beginning you know they are going to end up together. With a supporting cast of good guys, bad guys, and some that are both, you are soon caught up in a story that revolves around an art heist and a few dead bodies.
I took my time reading this one because I really wanted to keep the characters straight. I recommend it to any that want to enjoy a good story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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