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The Intelligence Unit #3
The Grifter
Only one person has ever rocked Detective Shawn Maxwell’s titanium composure.
Francesca Rossi, his ex-partner.
His ex-everything.
He hasn’t seen Frankie since she left him eight years ago
and now he has to work with her on an undercover case
that could break them both.
But when Shawn’s world is turned upside down by the news
that he has a three-year-old daughter,
Frankie stuns him by being an unlikely ally.
The more they’re together, the more the walls between them begin to crumble
and the less he can resist the fierce, beautiful woman he fell for.
But their past comes with wounds that run deep
and the present holds danger neither of them see coming.
Until suddenly, they aren’t just fighting for love.
They’re fighting for their lives.
Francesca Rossi, his ex-partner.
His ex-everything.
He hasn’t seen Frankie since she left him eight years ago
and now he has to work with her on an undercover case
that could break them both.
But when Shawn’s world is turned upside down by the news
that he has a three-year-old daughter,
Frankie stuns him by being an unlikely ally.
The more they’re together, the more the walls between them begin to crumble
and the less he can resist the fierce, beautiful woman he fell for.
But their past comes with wounds that run deep
and the present holds danger neither of them see coming.
Until suddenly, they aren’t just fighting for love.
They’re fighting for their lives.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2021
90 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
65 books2,677 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
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May 1, 2022It's here! It's here! Finally, broody, quiet, inked-up Detective Shawn Maxwell's HEA is here! I can't even lie, his second chance/single dad romance with ex-partner, Francesca Rossi, is an emotional ride. These two (three, when you count Maxwell's SURPRISE daughter!) really tugged at my heart strings. I hope you enjoy their story as much as I loved writing it. Read on for a little spoiler-free sneak peek.
In his twelve years of being a cop, Detective Shawn Maxwell had only f*cked up once. It was, statistically speaking, a decent track record. But as far as magnitude went, his mistake had been both enormous and life-altering, to the point that he’d never been able to forget a single, gut-clenching detail. The velocity at which things had gone from perfectly ordinary to pure terror. The icy crush of panic in his veins. The split-second misstep he’d never forgiven himself for, a lapse of judgment that had lasted for both a blink and forever, all at once.
And now, that horrible error was coming back to haunt him as deserved, courtesy of Francesca Rossi.
Make that Detective Francesca Rossi. A.K.A., his ex-partner.
A.K.A., his ex-everything.
Shawn sat back in his desk chair and did a mental rewind of the phone call he’d gotten from his boss, Sergeant Sam Sinclair, the night before. It wasn’t unusual for Sinclair to give him a heads up when they caught a case that would require undercover work. After all, Shawn had completed the most specialized UC training out of all the detectives in Remington’s Intelligence Unit. A bit of a natural (if he did say so, himself), he’d successfully gone undercover three times more often than any of his unit-mates. He had more seniority in the elite unit than anyone else, and—as his smartass partner, Addison Hale, liked to remind him—at the ripe, old age of thirty-four, he was the oldest, too. So, when Sinclair had called him last night and popped off with, “Caught a case that requires your skillset,” Shawn had been far from shocked.
It was what his boss had followed up with that had knocked him on his ass.
Frankie was coming back to Remington. They were going to have to work a case together.
And nobody, including Sinclair, had any idea that he’d nearly gotten her killed eight years ago.
In his twelve years of being a cop, Detective Shawn Maxwell had only f*cked up once. It was, statistically speaking, a decent track record. But as far as magnitude went, his mistake had been both enormous and life-altering, to the point that he’d never been able to forget a single, gut-clenching detail. The velocity at which things had gone from perfectly ordinary to pure terror. The icy crush of panic in his veins. The split-second misstep he’d never forgiven himself for, a lapse of judgment that had lasted for both a blink and forever, all at once.
And now, that horrible error was coming back to haunt him as deserved, courtesy of Francesca Rossi.
Make that Detective Francesca Rossi. A.K.A., his ex-partner.
A.K.A., his ex-everything.
Shawn sat back in his desk chair and did a mental rewind of the phone call he’d gotten from his boss, Sergeant Sam Sinclair, the night before. It wasn’t unusual for Sinclair to give him a heads up when they caught a case that would require undercover work. After all, Shawn had completed the most specialized UC training out of all the detectives in Remington’s Intelligence Unit. A bit of a natural (if he did say so, himself), he’d successfully gone undercover three times more often than any of his unit-mates. He had more seniority in the elite unit than anyone else, and—as his smartass partner, Addison Hale, liked to remind him—at the ripe, old age of thirty-four, he was the oldest, too. So, when Sinclair had called him last night and popped off with, “Caught a case that requires your skillset,” Shawn had been far from shocked.
It was what his boss had followed up with that had knocked him on his ass.
Frankie was coming back to Remington. They were going to have to work a case together.
And nobody, including Sinclair, had any idea that he’d nearly gotten her killed eight years ago.
October 18, 2021
Kimberly Kicaid continues her sizzling hot romantic suspense series about undercover officer Shawn Maxwell and his ex-partner and lover Francesca Rossi who comes back into his life just when he needs her the most.
After being stabbed on a call eight years ago, Frankie left Remington to fight some serious demons never looking back. Now though, the sociopathic drug kingpin she’s been after has set his sights on Remington. She’s determined to bring him down even if she has to partner up with Shawn and face the feelings that never truly went away.
Kimberly Kincaid produces a story with the perfect blend of anticipation, suspense, danger and sexiness. I felt fully immersed and was hooked from start to finish.
I really liked Frankie, she’s tough, capable and smart, but also uber sweet, honest and yes, a bit broken on the inside.
The attraction between Frankie and Shawn was undeniable, but their relationship went so much deeper than the physical. Shawn was detached and dedicated to his job, but once Frankie got past his defenses there was no denying she stole his heart. She balanced him while making him feel. And I especially love how she made him put on his big boy pants when he found out about his daughter.
I really enjoyed having the intelligence unit gang back and look forward to getting to know more about the other members.
The Grifter is book #3 of the Inteligence Unit series by Kimerly Kicaid. It’s a standalone second chance, romantic suspense. It’s told from various points of view with a happy ending. Subgenre: surprise daughter | former partners.
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Wildfire Marketing. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Check out all my book edits on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★ More reviews
After being stabbed on a call eight years ago, Frankie left Remington to fight some serious demons never looking back. Now though, the sociopathic drug kingpin she’s been after has set his sights on Remington. She’s determined to bring him down even if she has to partner up with Shawn and face the feelings that never truly went away.
Kimberly Kincaid produces a story with the perfect blend of anticipation, suspense, danger and sexiness. I felt fully immersed and was hooked from start to finish.
I really liked Frankie, she’s tough, capable and smart, but also uber sweet, honest and yes, a bit broken on the inside.
The attraction between Frankie and Shawn was undeniable, but their relationship went so much deeper than the physical. Shawn was detached and dedicated to his job, but once Frankie got past his defenses there was no denying she stole his heart. She balanced him while making him feel. And I especially love how she made him put on his big boy pants when he found out about his daughter.
I really enjoyed having the intelligence unit gang back and look forward to getting to know more about the other members.
The Grifter is book #3 of the Inteligence Unit series by Kimerly Kicaid. It’s a standalone second chance, romantic suspense. It’s told from various points of view with a happy ending. Subgenre: surprise daughter | former partners.
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Wildfire Marketing. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Check out all my book edits on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★ More reviews
October 17, 2021
If you are looking for a hook to keep you on the edge of your seat look no further than Shawn and Frankie’s second chance romance but this book is not all about romance, let’s not forget there is a killer on the loose. This is a well written book that drew me in from the first few pages and didn’t let me go until I had read the final page, I was captivated and thrilled and I highly recommend this read.
Shawn Maxwell is used to going undercover, he is used to danger but this operation is riskier than any other, this assignment involves his ex lover …….
Eight years ago they went their seperate ways but now it’s time to revisit what they had and why they parted so can Frankie keep her heart save or will old wounds get opened once again.
This book has it all, it’s full of suspense and intrigue, it has wonderful characters, it’s full of heat and passion and it will keep you on the edge of your seat but it was Shawn’s relationship with his daughter that took this book to another level.
Shawn Maxwell is used to going undercover, he is used to danger but this operation is riskier than any other, this assignment involves his ex lover …….
Eight years ago they went their seperate ways but now it’s time to revisit what they had and why they parted so can Frankie keep her heart save or will old wounds get opened once again.
This book has it all, it’s full of suspense and intrigue, it has wonderful characters, it’s full of heat and passion and it will keep you on the edge of your seat but it was Shawn’s relationship with his daughter that took this book to another level.
October 19, 2021
5 FABULOUS STARS!! What a fabulous read this was. It kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through. Shawn and Frankie touched all of my heart with their story. Kimberly Kincaid knows how to suck us readers into the story....she is amazing.
August 29, 2022
Oh my!!! The Grifter had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and it gave me all the feels. Second chance romance with a surprise baby and a crazy killer on the loose? Kimberly Kincaid definitely got me hooked and so invested in Shawn and Frankie. Their chemistry is off the charts hot and they make the perfect pair in and out of the office. I don't want to say too much and spoil the story but this is definitely a must read. I loved every minute of this story. I can not wait for Addison's story next. I love this series so much!
*I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book*
*I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book*
October 19, 2021
OMG This book was so good. True to life crime story and parts had me sitting on the edge of my seat to see what would happen. I love a good second chance at love story and these two life stories felt true to life. I was rooting for them and at the same time scared for their lives. This can be read a standalone but so much better to read the series.
October 20, 2021
FINALLY….the grouchy built tattooed Maxwell finally gets his story and his stoic and grumpy persona gets chipped away bit by bit by his ex, Frankie, who left him 8 years ago after she was injured when they were partners on a call. Frankie joins his unit to bring down a sociopath drug dealer, Beck, who is trying to make ground in Remington and Frankie has a personal stake in taking down the ruthless dealer. The two get partnered up, posing as a couple to try and get an in to catch Beck in the act and their old feelings resurface until it combusts. But they are thrown a curveball when Maxwell learns he has a three year old daughter after the mom passes away…..and Frankie becomes the rock he needs to navigate his new status as a dad and still be able to work the case to get Beck…but will all the change and chaos be too much for Frankie….
Sooooooo good, steam…ahem….steam….some suspense…and amazing characters all around between the present characters and past characters making an appearance. I LOVED reading the slow breakdown of Maxwell’s carefully instructed walls, bit by bit crumbling under Frankie’s open honesty and not holding back. His vulnerability when he learns he has a daughter….priceless…and his actions after….melted my heart.
The story flowed beautifully w/o skipping a beat and I LOVED the little to no drama between them, the open honesty, no miscommunication and leaning on each other when needed with no hesitation.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
Sooooooo good, steam…ahem….steam….some suspense…and amazing characters all around between the present characters and past characters making an appearance. I LOVED reading the slow breakdown of Maxwell’s carefully instructed walls, bit by bit crumbling under Frankie’s open honesty and not holding back. His vulnerability when he learns he has a daughter….priceless…and his actions after….melted my heart.
The story flowed beautifully w/o skipping a beat and I LOVED the little to no drama between them, the open honesty, no miscommunication and leaning on each other when needed with no hesitation.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
October 15, 2021
I'll admit, I didn't know what to expect from this second chance everything. But what I got was a suck-me-in story that I didn't want to let go. Shawn and Frankie sizzle off the pages even though they haven't been together in eight years. The unresolved emotions are ever present through most of this book and make it so much more frustrating for me as a reader. And that is totally NOT a bad thing. I love books that get to me emotionally to the point where I want to drive to the town and have a serious sit down with the characters. Shawn is the rock of his unit. His emotional detachment makes him a perfect undercover cop. But that detachment could be undoing when his personal world needs to focus on a three year old. The way his heart cracks open is amazing to see. And it doesn't just happen because of that child. Frankie finds her way into the back of his heart to come barreling out. And let's talk about Frankie. Her demons are many but her frank and open way of discussing them is amazing. She lays it all out and doesn't shy away from any of it. She rocks! I'd talk about the case that they need to work on together but I don't want to give anything away. But i was really intrigued by how it would all play out. Kimberly Kincaid knew how to intertwine all aspects of this story.
October 4, 2021
Whenever I think this talented author can’t deliver a better story than the last one, I am proven wrong. This one is not only my favorite in the series, but also one of the best books she’s written.
The story centers around Shawn Maxwell and Francesca Rossi.
At one time Francesca was detective Shawn’s everything. His partner, lover, in fact his everything. He never expected to see her after he left him eight years ago.
But now they are working together in a dangerous undercover stint.
In the midst of this reunion where feelings are starting to reignite, Shawn discovers he has a young daughter.
Can they repair their relationship? Will they survive the evil that surrounds them?
This is a fast-paced , edge of your seat suspense romance with heart. Have tissues nearby, you might just need them.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story centers around Shawn Maxwell and Francesca Rossi.
At one time Francesca was detective Shawn’s everything. His partner, lover, in fact his everything. He never expected to see her after he left him eight years ago.
But now they are working together in a dangerous undercover stint.
In the midst of this reunion where feelings are starting to reignite, Shawn discovers he has a young daughter.
Can they repair their relationship? Will they survive the evil that surrounds them?
This is a fast-paced , edge of your seat suspense romance with heart. Have tissues nearby, you might just need them.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
October 18, 2021
Eight years ago, Shawn and Francesca (Frankie) were police partners and lovers. About ready to go public to the department with their affair, a tragic call suffers a major injury to Frankie and rips their relationship to shreds. He feels guilty for not protecting her, she became addicted to painkillers, they quit communicating, then she moves far away for rehab.
Now, Frankie shows up in the Intelligence Unit’s department to catch a bad guy that she has been tailing for months. Now the nasty narcotics dealer is in Remington and she needs Shawn’s Intelligence Unit’s help. They end up going undercover as a couple looking to hook up with a dealer – forced proximity brings them closer to the way they were as partners. Begins platonic and then inevitably moves to the sexy times.
Frankie is passionately involved with bringing down this dealer as he was responsible for the overdose killing of a friend. Don’t forget her own addiction recovery plays into the emotion. Frankie is a strong heroine – always speaks her mind, including about her past demons – thanks to some healthy therapy and her Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
Shawn is not so open about his feelings (part of the reason they may have drifted apart) but he still finds he has strong feelings for Frankie. Not to mention he’s the hot, broody, quiet type that makes us swoon. AND Surprise! Shawn finds out that he is insta-Dad to a three-year-old daughter after her mother passes away with never having told him. Got to tell you, this was my fave part of the story. Watching this little Isla slowly fall for her dad…..and Frankie.
Ms. Kincaid gives us the POV from the sociopath Beck and wow is he a POS. Getting his internal dialog about how much he enjoys killing people – either by cutting off fingers and limbs or by lacing their drugs with fentanyl – you are anxiously awaiting his demise. Of course, there is some drama that he instigates that has our whole Intelligence Unit coming in to save the day.
The Grifter is so well-written and the suspense is off the hook. Every time our couple mingles with that baddie, you are waiting for something to go horribly wrong. Shawn and Frankie get their second chance romance with a bonus daughter to boot. The Grifter is the third story in the Intelligence Unit series but is totally readable as a standalone.
I was given an advanced reader’s copy from the author for an honest review.
Now, Frankie shows up in the Intelligence Unit’s department to catch a bad guy that she has been tailing for months. Now the nasty narcotics dealer is in Remington and she needs Shawn’s Intelligence Unit’s help. They end up going undercover as a couple looking to hook up with a dealer – forced proximity brings them closer to the way they were as partners. Begins platonic and then inevitably moves to the sexy times.
Frankie is passionately involved with bringing down this dealer as he was responsible for the overdose killing of a friend. Don’t forget her own addiction recovery plays into the emotion. Frankie is a strong heroine – always speaks her mind, including about her past demons – thanks to some healthy therapy and her Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
Shawn is not so open about his feelings (part of the reason they may have drifted apart) but he still finds he has strong feelings for Frankie. Not to mention he’s the hot, broody, quiet type that makes us swoon. AND Surprise! Shawn finds out that he is insta-Dad to a three-year-old daughter after her mother passes away with never having told him. Got to tell you, this was my fave part of the story. Watching this little Isla slowly fall for her dad…..and Frankie.
Ms. Kincaid gives us the POV from the sociopath Beck and wow is he a POS. Getting his internal dialog about how much he enjoys killing people – either by cutting off fingers and limbs or by lacing their drugs with fentanyl – you are anxiously awaiting his demise. Of course, there is some drama that he instigates that has our whole Intelligence Unit coming in to save the day.
The Grifter is so well-written and the suspense is off the hook. Every time our couple mingles with that baddie, you are waiting for something to go horribly wrong. Shawn and Frankie get their second chance romance with a bonus daughter to boot. The Grifter is the third story in the Intelligence Unit series but is totally readable as a standalone.
I was given an advanced reader’s copy from the author for an honest review.
October 21, 2021
4.50 Stars
Oh wow I loved Shawn and Frankie's story 😊
Frankie and Shawn were partners 8years ago and then an incident happened and they haven’t spoken since then. Now Frankie is back in Remington to go undercover with Shawn trying to get a ruthless drug dealer. But things are a bit difficult when these two have a past that was not really resolved. So how will they work together undercover?
And then add in to the mix, Shawn finds out that he has a three year old daughter when the mother passes away. And guess who steps up to help him through this…Oh yeah… 😊 But will all of this be to much for Frankie to deal with. She has her own issues to deal with as well, now add in being undercover trying to arrest a vicious drug dealer and helping Shawn out with his daughter? How will she cope with all of this?
I loved the story. Loved the suspense, the drama, the grouchy hero and the sweetness of him learning his a dad and ad in the amazing heroine trying to get through to the grouchy alpha and the adorable little girl who definitely helped bring down Shawn’s walls😊
I fell in love with the story from the start to the end 😊 I don’t read this author’s books to often but when I do I completely fall in love with the characters and the story. I hope to read more on the Intelligence Unit soon 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Oh wow I loved Shawn and Frankie's story 😊
Frankie and Shawn were partners 8years ago and then an incident happened and they haven’t spoken since then. Now Frankie is back in Remington to go undercover with Shawn trying to get a ruthless drug dealer. But things are a bit difficult when these two have a past that was not really resolved. So how will they work together undercover?
And then add in to the mix, Shawn finds out that he has a three year old daughter when the mother passes away. And guess who steps up to help him through this…Oh yeah… 😊 But will all of this be to much for Frankie to deal with. She has her own issues to deal with as well, now add in being undercover trying to arrest a vicious drug dealer and helping Shawn out with his daughter? How will she cope with all of this?
I loved the story. Loved the suspense, the drama, the grouchy hero and the sweetness of him learning his a dad and ad in the amazing heroine trying to get through to the grouchy alpha and the adorable little girl who definitely helped bring down Shawn’s walls😊
I fell in love with the story from the start to the end 😊 I don’t read this author’s books to often but when I do I completely fall in love with the characters and the story. I hope to read more on the Intelligence Unit soon 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
October 20, 2021
What a wonderfully suspenseful story The Grifter was. Surprises, twists, turns … the story kept me on my toes and gave me some wonderful characters that I couldn’t help but adore.
Frankie and Shawn were unbelievable. A second chance that neither one of them saw coming. Yes, they fought it until they couldn’t anymore. All while trying to bring down a drug king.
All we have seen is the quiet Shawn. Now, Frankie is making him see what holding himself in check, keeping his emotions, fears and expectations bottled up, is not the way to live. Then again, he doesn’t have much of a choice but to change when Isla is thrown into his life. But, it’s Frankie that is there to support him, help him and remind him just what they once had. Frankie has her demons but Shawn has a way of quieting them. She finds herself opening up to him and fighting the feelings that they both had in the past. How does she uproot her life and open up her heart? Does she trust herself to be the woman Shawn and Isla need? But, she proves that she is already that woman, As the story unfolds, we see the real Shawn and Frankie, you can’t help but cheer them on. They need each other … not only for the case but for their hearts. They open up, bear their hearts and souls and finally find the happiness that they both deserve.
I love that Kimberly brings in other characters from past Remington stories. They are usually fun and bring a little humor into some dire situations. The Grifter was no exception. I seriously enjoyed this story, the way it flowed and the characters. The little surprises throughout enhanced the story line and brought out different sides of the characters. I loved how Isla was portrayed and how and why she was brought into the story. But, I honestly fell in love with the man Shawn turned into with the love of his life finally at his side.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Frankie and Shawn were unbelievable. A second chance that neither one of them saw coming. Yes, they fought it until they couldn’t anymore. All while trying to bring down a drug king.
All we have seen is the quiet Shawn. Now, Frankie is making him see what holding himself in check, keeping his emotions, fears and expectations bottled up, is not the way to live. Then again, he doesn’t have much of a choice but to change when Isla is thrown into his life. But, it’s Frankie that is there to support him, help him and remind him just what they once had. Frankie has her demons but Shawn has a way of quieting them. She finds herself opening up to him and fighting the feelings that they both had in the past. How does she uproot her life and open up her heart? Does she trust herself to be the woman Shawn and Isla need? But, she proves that she is already that woman, As the story unfolds, we see the real Shawn and Frankie, you can’t help but cheer them on. They need each other … not only for the case but for their hearts. They open up, bear their hearts and souls and finally find the happiness that they both deserve.
I love that Kimberly brings in other characters from past Remington stories. They are usually fun and bring a little humor into some dire situations. The Grifter was no exception. I seriously enjoyed this story, the way it flowed and the characters. The little surprises throughout enhanced the story line and brought out different sides of the characters. I loved how Isla was portrayed and how and why she was brought into the story. But, I honestly fell in love with the man Shawn turned into with the love of his life finally at his side.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 4, 2021
This book is so good! My stomach had butterflies in it the whole time I was reading the book. I love suspenseful romance books and this one kept me on my toes. I know it was hard for Shawn to have Frankie back in their office after not seeing her or hearing from her over eight years. I felt like the two were so in love before a case went sideways and Frankie almost died. Now that she is back in Remington asking the team for help in catching Beck who is a soulless man that loves to watch people die, especially through the drugs he puts on the street. Shawn and Frankie go undercover to try and get enough evidence on Beck to arrest him. Everything that happens had me on the edge of my seat. I felt so bad for Shawn when he was blindsided by finding out he has a three year old daughter. I feel it ended up being something good. I loved Isla and loved watching her open up to Shawn. I can’t say enough how you should read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
October 19, 2021
A story full of twists, turns and a second chance at love.
Oh my, loved, loved, loved Frankie Rossi and her strength and vulnerability, putting it on the line from the minute she returned to Remington PD to take down a drug dealing, evil, sociopath. Shawn Maxwell, is the definition of the silent, deadly type, his one word answers, refusal to get personal with his peers but always having their back.
The reunion of two former partners (work and personal) is not without a gazillion bumps in the road. Mainly, the reason for their split, Frankie dealing with her addiction after an on the job injury takes her down a dark path.
Now a functioning, and recovering addict, she returns to get the pusher/distributor off the streets before he becomes entrenched in a new market.
Enter, the first big surprise….. to everyone, Shawn finds out he’s the father of a three year old little girl upon the death of her mother.
I loved everything about this story, and am so glad that Frankie gets her happy ending…… even though it was a nail biter right up to the end.
Oh my, loved, loved, loved Frankie Rossi and her strength and vulnerability, putting it on the line from the minute she returned to Remington PD to take down a drug dealing, evil, sociopath. Shawn Maxwell, is the definition of the silent, deadly type, his one word answers, refusal to get personal with his peers but always having their back.
The reunion of two former partners (work and personal) is not without a gazillion bumps in the road. Mainly, the reason for their split, Frankie dealing with her addiction after an on the job injury takes her down a dark path.
Now a functioning, and recovering addict, she returns to get the pusher/distributor off the streets before he becomes entrenched in a new market.
Enter, the first big surprise….. to everyone, Shawn finds out he’s the father of a three year old little girl upon the death of her mother.
I loved everything about this story, and am so glad that Frankie gets her happy ending…… even though it was a nail biter right up to the end.
September 7, 2022
This story kept me on the edge of my seat. It is a second chance romance where Shawn and Frankie were once partners and had a relationship. When she became addicted to pain killers it caused a lot of issues having Frankie moving away and in doing so taking a surprise along with her. They have reconnected and the feelings are still there. Will this time around have them rekindling the love they once had, and will it finally lead them to a happily ever after? This touched my heart and had me cheering for this couple! It is a well written story with Characters that I connected with.
October 17, 2021
You want a keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense with Holy-Shi-twists, amazing characters, incredible storyline, and a surprise baby???
THEN GRAB THIS BOOK!!!
This third book in The Intelligence Unit by Author Kimberly Kincaid had me heartbroken, in tears, and working to pick my jaw up off the floor (along with Detective Shawn Maxwell, I bet!)! This second chance romance with Shawn and Frankie has a swoon-worthy hero, and will pull your heart strings. The underlying reason and background and what Frankie has been through since 8 years ago (the last time they were together)…WOW. Their connection is so deep!
Every one of the books gets even better (I know…that is hard to believe, right?), but it does! This is my favorite so far of the series! I absolutely adored Frankie and Shawn’s romance, the twist of the baby and how she came to be, and…sigh. 5 shooting stars (and a major book hangover!) from me for The Grifter!!!
THEN GRAB THIS BOOK!!!
This third book in The Intelligence Unit by Author Kimberly Kincaid had me heartbroken, in tears, and working to pick my jaw up off the floor (along with Detective Shawn Maxwell, I bet!)! This second chance romance with Shawn and Frankie has a swoon-worthy hero, and will pull your heart strings. The underlying reason and background and what Frankie has been through since 8 years ago (the last time they were together)…WOW. Their connection is so deep!
Every one of the books gets even better (I know…that is hard to believe, right?), but it does! This is my favorite so far of the series! I absolutely adored Frankie and Shawn’s romance, the twist of the baby and how she came to be, and…sigh. 5 shooting stars (and a major book hangover!) from me for The Grifter!!!
September 20, 2021
Heartbreaking in the best possible way!
Once again Kimberly Kincaid broke my heart into a million pieces and then pieced it back together so well that all the tears I shed at the end of The Grifter were happy ones.
Shawn and Frankie's workplace, second chance story is full of twists and turns, steamy romance and of course the wit and fun we've come to associate with the Intelligence Unit.
Shawn Maxwell is so swoon-worthy. He is my favorite kind of hero, tough and gruff with a huge heart for the women in his life. Watching him navigate not only his relationship with Frankie but also his daughter made my heart happy! Frankie Rossi, his ex-partner and former love of his life, has a million reasons to stay away from Shawn and to keep her heart safe from further hurt but Shawn is hard to resist! They are fantastic partners at work and even more amazing as they navigate the ups and downs of their new relationship while dealing with ghosts from their past and the discovery of Shawn's baby girl and a crazed killer. Their emotions are strong, their chemistry is off the charts but the danger they face from this case is very real!
This fast-paced romantic suspense kept me biting my nails right until the very end. Kimberly Kincaid is one of my very favorite writers and she proves over and over how talented she is at writing heart pounding romance and heart stopping suspense. A must read!
Once again Kimberly Kincaid broke my heart into a million pieces and then pieced it back together so well that all the tears I shed at the end of The Grifter were happy ones.
Shawn and Frankie's workplace, second chance story is full of twists and turns, steamy romance and of course the wit and fun we've come to associate with the Intelligence Unit.
Shawn Maxwell is so swoon-worthy. He is my favorite kind of hero, tough and gruff with a huge heart for the women in his life. Watching him navigate not only his relationship with Frankie but also his daughter made my heart happy! Frankie Rossi, his ex-partner and former love of his life, has a million reasons to stay away from Shawn and to keep her heart safe from further hurt but Shawn is hard to resist! They are fantastic partners at work and even more amazing as they navigate the ups and downs of their new relationship while dealing with ghosts from their past and the discovery of Shawn's baby girl and a crazed killer. Their emotions are strong, their chemistry is off the charts but the danger they face from this case is very real!
This fast-paced romantic suspense kept me biting my nails right until the very end. Kimberly Kincaid is one of my very favorite writers and she proves over and over how talented she is at writing heart pounding romance and heart stopping suspense. A must read!
October 5, 2021
As amazing as she, Kimberly knocks it out of the park once again. Shawn and Frankie cross paths after eight years. Big time dealer wants to start business in Remington, there's drugs, deaths, and re-kindled happily ever afters. Definitely a must-read.
October 19, 2021
I generously received this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is the third book in the Intelligence Unit series. All can be read as standalone. I read this one before the others. But rest assured I will be reading the others. First and foremost I love K.Kincaid. She's awesome. And I have a note for you Ms. Kincaid- I DON'T KNOW IF YOU WERE TRYING TO KILL ME BUT YOU SUCCEEDED. This book literally has it all, a little bit of comedy, steam, romance, angst, and SUSPENSE. And in an effort
To give nothing away the way K.K. talks about Frankie and her backstory. Is just. Wow. She hit the nail on the head. I had no idea I loved the single dad trope but leave it to K.K to HELP ME FIND THAT OUT. So good. I mean come on, I literally read it in less than 6 hours.
This is the third book in the Intelligence Unit series. All can be read as standalone. I read this one before the others. But rest assured I will be reading the others. First and foremost I love K.Kincaid. She's awesome. And I have a note for you Ms. Kincaid- I DON'T KNOW IF YOU WERE TRYING TO KILL ME BUT YOU SUCCEEDED. This book literally has it all, a little bit of comedy, steam, romance, angst, and SUSPENSE. And in an effort
To give nothing away the way K.K. talks about Frankie and her backstory. Is just. Wow. She hit the nail on the head. I had no idea I loved the single dad trope but leave it to K.K to HELP ME FIND THAT OUT. So good. I mean come on, I literally read it in less than 6 hours.
July 18, 2022
I loved this book. The whole series has been great. In fact this one might be my favorite. I used to not be a fan of second chance romance, but I’ve started liking them a lot. I was so excited to get Shawn’s story. I love the quiet ones. Frankie was a huge surprise to me. There’s plenty of action and suspense to keep you hooked.
I’m going to have to go back and catch up on the other series.
I’m going to have to go back and catch up on the other series.
October 12, 2021
**4.5 stars**
I’m lovin’ Kimberly Kincaid’s Intelligence Unit series and I think The Grifter just might be my favorite so far!
Shawn and Frankie haven’t seen each other in 8 years, but when they’re forced to work together on a very dangerous undercover case, they’ll have to confront their past, their feelings and work through what kept them apart for all of those years. Add in Shawn finding out he has a 3 year old daughter…oh baby.
I loved The Grifter, with all the suspense, danger, emotions and hot, sizzlin’ chemistry between Shawn and Frankie!
Romantic Suspense is one of my favorite genres and Kimberly Kincaid is one of my favorite authors, so this book and series are a win-win for me!
I’m lovin’ Kimberly Kincaid’s Intelligence Unit series and I think The Grifter just might be my favorite so far!
Shawn and Frankie haven’t seen each other in 8 years, but when they’re forced to work together on a very dangerous undercover case, they’ll have to confront their past, their feelings and work through what kept them apart for all of those years. Add in Shawn finding out he has a 3 year old daughter…oh baby.
I loved The Grifter, with all the suspense, danger, emotions and hot, sizzlin’ chemistry between Shawn and Frankie!
Romantic Suspense is one of my favorite genres and Kimberly Kincaid is one of my favorite authors, so this book and series are a win-win for me!
October 11, 2021
Enticing and Realistic!! Frankie and Maxwell’s story is full of obstacles, twist and turns and unexpected surprises. It is engaging and realistic and at times intense. I really enjoyed the back and forth Frankie and Max had going on. Trying to figure out their relationship and then the added surprise was interesting and enlightening. Highly enjoyable!!
October 23, 2021
THE GRIFTER is the third instalment in Kimberly Kincaid’s contemporary, adult THE INTELLIGENCE UNIT erotic, romantic suspense series-a spin off from her Station Seventeen and Remington Medical series. This is police detectives/undercover unit Shawn Maxwell, and Frankie Rossi. THE GRIFTER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from third person perspective THE GRIFTER follows the second chance romance and relationship between former partners and lovers police detectives/undercover unit Shawn Maxwell, and Frankie Rossi. Eight years earlier a domestic call landed Detective Frankie Rossi in six months of recovery and rehab following a knife stabbing incident. Having partnered with Shawn Maxwell for close to two years, their personal relationship was about to implode, wherein Shawn filed for a transfer. Fast forward to present day, and Frankie’s ongoing narcotics case has brought her face to face with her former love, working together to take down a known drug kingpin. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Shawn and Frankie, and the potential fall-out when their identities are discovered, and our couple are targeted.
Frankie Rossi struggled in the months following the knife attack including the ‘loss’ of the man that she loved but working together brought up too many memories, memories of which Shawn battled to control. Shawn’s past is about to upend his present, and with it, Frankie must decide where in Shawn’s life she belongs.
The relationship between Frankie and Shawn is one of second chances; a rekindling romance wherein eight years apart did nothing to contain their palpable sexual attraction. Shawn continues to struggle with his feelings and emotions, and in this, changes in his life are about to take hold. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate, and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include Detective Isabella Walker, Shawn’s new partner Addison Hale; Detective Matteo Garza; tech and surveillance expert James Capelli, and Sargeant Sam Sinclair. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE GRIFTER is a story of an undercover and takedown, betrayal, vengeance, friendships, relationships and rekindling love. The fast paced premise is intriguing, engaging and entertaining; the romance is captivating and impassioned; the characters are dynamic and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective THE GRIFTER follows the second chance romance and relationship between former partners and lovers police detectives/undercover unit Shawn Maxwell, and Frankie Rossi. Eight years earlier a domestic call landed Detective Frankie Rossi in six months of recovery and rehab following a knife stabbing incident. Having partnered with Shawn Maxwell for close to two years, their personal relationship was about to implode, wherein Shawn filed for a transfer. Fast forward to present day, and Frankie’s ongoing narcotics case has brought her face to face with her former love, working together to take down a known drug kingpin. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Shawn and Frankie, and the potential fall-out when their identities are discovered, and our couple are targeted.
Frankie Rossi struggled in the months following the knife attack including the ‘loss’ of the man that she loved but working together brought up too many memories, memories of which Shawn battled to control. Shawn’s past is about to upend his present, and with it, Frankie must decide where in Shawn’s life she belongs.
The relationship between Frankie and Shawn is one of second chances; a rekindling romance wherein eight years apart did nothing to contain their palpable sexual attraction. Shawn continues to struggle with his feelings and emotions, and in this, changes in his life are about to take hold. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate, and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include Detective Isabella Walker, Shawn’s new partner Addison Hale; Detective Matteo Garza; tech and surveillance expert James Capelli, and Sargeant Sam Sinclair. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE GRIFTER is a story of an undercover and takedown, betrayal, vengeance, friendships, relationships and rekindling love. The fast paced premise is intriguing, engaging and entertaining; the romance is captivating and impassioned; the characters are dynamic and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
October 19, 2021
It’s time to go back to the Intelligence Unit and just in time to see the hardest of them all Shawn Maxwell fall and fall hard and for the last person he saw coming.
This is the 3rd book in the Intelligence Unit series and each book just keeps getting better. I’ve loved all of them so far, but this book grabbed me by the heartstrings and pulled me in deep.
I absolutely loved this story. It had everything I wanted from this author and more. There’s just something about seeing a character that has been a solid, no give kind of figure, fall fast and hard for not only the one that got away but for a new female in his life that he never knew about but would move heaven and earth to protect now.
Let not forget his kick ass heroine in Frankie who stormed onto the page and owned her character from the very start. She is the only person to crack Shawn’s thick outer shell and she not only cracks it, she oliterates it.
Together they set the pages on fire with their chemistry and while it has the hands down hottest scene this author has written, it also has some of the most heartfelt and gut wrenching moments to that will have you sniffling and holding your breath.
For fans of the series, like me, all the familiar faces pop up and a few new ones including a baddie that will have your skin crawling every time he's on the page. *shudders thinking about him*
I absolutely loved this book and am already eager for more in this series. It’s stories like this one, why I have Kimberly Kincaid on my auto buy list. It’s a winner for me,
This is the 3rd book in the Intelligence Unit series and each book just keeps getting better. I’ve loved all of them so far, but this book grabbed me by the heartstrings and pulled me in deep.
I absolutely loved this story. It had everything I wanted from this author and more. There’s just something about seeing a character that has been a solid, no give kind of figure, fall fast and hard for not only the one that got away but for a new female in his life that he never knew about but would move heaven and earth to protect now.
Let not forget his kick ass heroine in Frankie who stormed onto the page and owned her character from the very start. She is the only person to crack Shawn’s thick outer shell and she not only cracks it, she oliterates it.
Together they set the pages on fire with their chemistry and while it has the hands down hottest scene this author has written, it also has some of the most heartfelt and gut wrenching moments to that will have you sniffling and holding your breath.
For fans of the series, like me, all the familiar faces pop up and a few new ones including a baddie that will have your skin crawling every time he's on the page. *shudders thinking about him*
I absolutely loved this book and am already eager for more in this series. It’s stories like this one, why I have Kimberly Kincaid on my auto buy list. It’s a winner for me,
October 19, 2021
Kimberly Kincaid consistently writes books that capture your attention with amazing characters, rich and nuanced storylines with plenty of intrigue and suspense, and enough steam factor to complete the experience perfectly.
Frankie and Shaun have a deep history and them being paired up on an undercover case for the Remington Intelligence Unit is challenging for both of them at first. Previously partners while in patrol and secretly dating for months before an on the job incident imploded their relationship. Now they are fighting to hide their feelings for each other from themselves and everyone around them. A difficult challenge when you work with a team of elite detectives.
The storyline is intense with so many emotional developments along the way, it completely captured my attention and my heartstrings - never letting up until the end. This storyline is as much about their undercover case as it is about these two characters rediscovering their feelings after many years of locking them away. The appearance of so many awesome characters from prior books along with a few we’ve not yet learned much about is one of the many reasons I enjoy Kimberly’s books. The feeling of revisiting a tight group of characters that could easily be friends I’d want to hang out with IRL.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Frankie and Shaun have a deep history and them being paired up on an undercover case for the Remington Intelligence Unit is challenging for both of them at first. Previously partners while in patrol and secretly dating for months before an on the job incident imploded their relationship. Now they are fighting to hide their feelings for each other from themselves and everyone around them. A difficult challenge when you work with a team of elite detectives.
The storyline is intense with so many emotional developments along the way, it completely captured my attention and my heartstrings - never letting up until the end. This storyline is as much about their undercover case as it is about these two characters rediscovering their feelings after many years of locking them away. The appearance of so many awesome characters from prior books along with a few we’ve not yet learned much about is one of the many reasons I enjoy Kimberly’s books. The feeling of revisiting a tight group of characters that could easily be friends I’d want to hang out with IRL.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2021
4 Stars
I was pulled right into this story. This story contains heartbreak, secrets, danger, and suspense.
If you have not already, I recommend reading the below before this one:
The Rookie (The Intelligence Unit, #1)
The Guardian (The Intelligence Unit #2)
This is Frankie and Shawn‘s story. Shawn has not seen Frankie for about eight years ago. They used to be everything to each other that is until she left him. Now they have to work side by side on an undercover case. Secrets are revealed on both sides and in the middle of all that he finds out he has a daughter. Frankie steps up to help but danger is lurking. They had everything before if they want a future together, they are going to have to overcome the danger and fight the monsters of the past in order to have it all. Can they survive all that is going to come at them? Can they really have a chance at a future?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. This story contains heartbreak, secrets, danger, and suspense.
If you have not already, I recommend reading the below before this one:
The Rookie (The Intelligence Unit, #1)
The Guardian (The Intelligence Unit #2)
This is Frankie and Shawn‘s story. Shawn has not seen Frankie for about eight years ago. They used to be everything to each other that is until she left him. Now they have to work side by side on an undercover case. Secrets are revealed on both sides and in the middle of all that he finds out he has a daughter. Frankie steps up to help but danger is lurking. They had everything before if they want a future together, they are going to have to overcome the danger and fight the monsters of the past in order to have it all. Can they survive all that is going to come at them? Can they really have a chance at a future?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
October 16, 2021
Whether it's farmers, cooks, cops or doctors, Kimberly Kincaid can always be depended on to provide a great read, and The Grifter is among her best. The chemistry between Maxwell and Frankie is off the charts on the hot meter and their past history (that didn't end well) just takes things from the temporarily partners to the "it's complicated" realm in a hurry - and then, a mid-story phone call takes everything up another level in the "all the feels" department. Their love story is one that is pretty much guaranteed to tug at your heart.
This one's much more than a love story however. Like all of the Intelligence Unit stories, the cop story is fast paced, action packed and complex. There's a paranoid, psychopathic villain who could give Batman's Joker a run for his money. Frankie's been chasing him for months in Atlanta but now he's decided to expand his operations to Remington and, with Frankie and Shawn going under cover, the team is determined to arrange a nice extended stay for him at Club Fed instead.
I loved this story.
This one's much more than a love story however. Like all of the Intelligence Unit stories, the cop story is fast paced, action packed and complex. There's a paranoid, psychopathic villain who could give Batman's Joker a run for his money. Frankie's been chasing him for months in Atlanta but now he's decided to expand his operations to Remington and, with Frankie and Shawn going under cover, the team is determined to arrange a nice extended stay for him at Club Fed instead.
I loved this story.
October 12, 2021
5 Stars
Shawn Maxwell is used to dangerous situations, but when his newest undercover assignment involves his former partner/lover, the risks become greater than usual. Readers should be ready to jump into a suspenseful and intense story from start to finish. The case Shawn and Frankie are working on brings a host of threats into their lives, and when a little girl is brought into Shawn’s life, safety and security take on an entirely new meaning. The connection between Shawn and Frankie is powerful and as they cross boundaries and open up old wounds, they discover a number of things they should have talked about years before. Readers be ready, this one will have to holding your breath, turning down the A/C and giving up a few hours of sleep!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Shawn Maxwell is used to dangerous situations, but when his newest undercover assignment involves his former partner/lover, the risks become greater than usual. Readers should be ready to jump into a suspenseful and intense story from start to finish. The case Shawn and Frankie are working on brings a host of threats into their lives, and when a little girl is brought into Shawn’s life, safety and security take on an entirely new meaning. The connection between Shawn and Frankie is powerful and as they cross boundaries and open up old wounds, they discover a number of things they should have talked about years before. Readers be ready, this one will have to holding your breath, turning down the A/C and giving up a few hours of sleep!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
October 13, 2021
This was so addictive! I couldn't put it down!
8 years ago Shawn and Frankie were partners personally and provisionally until Frankie and had an accident that Shawn has never forgiven himself for.
Now their paths across again, when they both go undercover and the minute the see each other after 8 years all those old feelings for each other come crashing back with a bang!
Just as they start working on the case, Shawn has another surprise, a Dad to a baby girl that he didn't know anything about!
I loved The Grifter, I was on the edge of my seat while reading this, full of suspense, drama and the chemistry was combustible! You will love it
8 years ago Shawn and Frankie were partners personally and provisionally until Frankie and had an accident that Shawn has never forgiven himself for.
Now their paths across again, when they both go undercover and the minute the see each other after 8 years all those old feelings for each other come crashing back with a bang!
Just as they start working on the case, Shawn has another surprise, a Dad to a baby girl that he didn't know anything about!
I loved The Grifter, I was on the edge of my seat while reading this, full of suspense, drama and the chemistry was combustible! You will love it
October 7, 2021
A second-chance romance that reunited two complex individuals. Shawn Maxwell kept his feeling locked in a vault. He was challenged with keeping them under control when faced with his ex-partner and an unexpected daughter. Frankie Rossi worked with Shawn eight years ago until she was injured and became addicted to pain drugs. This page-turner was filled with drama, twists, and romance. I loved the way Shawn stepped up to be a dad to a lonely, confused young girl. The characters were real. I recommend this addition to the Intelligence Unit series.
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