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Trouble for Hire #2
Don't Play With Odin
Big, bad, and currently out of his element...
Odin Shaw thought he’d spend his life on a battlefield. But fate had other plans, and now the ex-Special Forces operative has just landed a new job at his best friend’s PI office. It’s one hell of a life change, and the giant “Viking” is trying to adjust, fast, but then she walks into his life.
Delicate, beautiful, and hunting a killer…
Maisey Bright has been following the news. She knows that the small PI firm just helped track a killer and get the perp locked away—so Maisey figures that the towering man sitting behind the massive desk will be perfect solution for her current predicament. The cops don’t believe her story, so Maisey has no choice. She wants to hire Odin. The job in question? Well, she needs him to help her find proof—irrefutable evidence—that her next-door neighbor is a serial killer.
The gorgeous ones are always a little bit crazy…
Odin figures the case will be a snap. He’ll prove that Maisey’s neighbor is most definitely not a serial killer. He’ll do it in record time, and he’ll score some extra cash for the PI firm. Maybe he’ll even score some points with the lovely—but obviously way too crime-enthusiast-obsessed—Maisey. Piece of cake.
It’s not a piece of cake. It’s a freaking nightmare.
When Odin steps into Maisey’s world, things seem off from the very beginning. Her neighbor is suspicious as hell, and when Maisey is nearly kidnapped after leaving her job, Odin realizes there is much more to the case than meets the eye. A whole lot more. He moves into Maisey’s place to protect her—and to keep an eye on her neighbor. But the close proximity to the maddening Maisey stirs a fierce desire inside of Odin. Maisey is smart, off-beat, sexy…and when he kisses her, Odin is a goner.
But first, the killer…
Odin and Maisey set off to uncover the truth about her neighbor, and as they dig deeper into the disappearances that have plagued the town for the last year, Odin begins to suspect that Maisey may be dead right. He also realizes that he is falling for a woman who now seems be the target of a killer. Looks like it might be time for Odin to go to battle once more. Because there is no way—no way—that anyone will hurt Maisey.
Author’s Note: Calling all true-crime enthusiasts! Maisey is your girl. She spends her nights listening to podcasts and sleuthing, but when she suspects that a killer is living next door, Maisey knows that she needs a professional partner…so Odin Shaw enters the picture. Odin has muscles for days, and he doesn’t even blink when he faces danger. He’s just the PI that she wants. Danger, romance, twists—time for their story to begin.
Odin Shaw thought he’d spend his life on a battlefield. But fate had other plans, and now the ex-Special Forces operative has just landed a new job at his best friend’s PI office. It’s one hell of a life change, and the giant “Viking” is trying to adjust, fast, but then she walks into his life.
Delicate, beautiful, and hunting a killer…
Maisey Bright has been following the news. She knows that the small PI firm just helped track a killer and get the perp locked away—so Maisey figures that the towering man sitting behind the massive desk will be perfect solution for her current predicament. The cops don’t believe her story, so Maisey has no choice. She wants to hire Odin. The job in question? Well, she needs him to help her find proof—irrefutable evidence—that her next-door neighbor is a serial killer.
The gorgeous ones are always a little bit crazy…
Odin figures the case will be a snap. He’ll prove that Maisey’s neighbor is most definitely not a serial killer. He’ll do it in record time, and he’ll score some extra cash for the PI firm. Maybe he’ll even score some points with the lovely—but obviously way too crime-enthusiast-obsessed—Maisey. Piece of cake.
It’s not a piece of cake. It’s a freaking nightmare.
When Odin steps into Maisey’s world, things seem off from the very beginning. Her neighbor is suspicious as hell, and when Maisey is nearly kidnapped after leaving her job, Odin realizes there is much more to the case than meets the eye. A whole lot more. He moves into Maisey’s place to protect her—and to keep an eye on her neighbor. But the close proximity to the maddening Maisey stirs a fierce desire inside of Odin. Maisey is smart, off-beat, sexy…and when he kisses her, Odin is a goner.
But first, the killer…
Odin and Maisey set off to uncover the truth about her neighbor, and as they dig deeper into the disappearances that have plagued the town for the last year, Odin begins to suspect that Maisey may be dead right. He also realizes that he is falling for a woman who now seems be the target of a killer. Looks like it might be time for Odin to go to battle once more. Because there is no way—no way—that anyone will hurt Maisey.
Author’s Note: Calling all true-crime enthusiasts! Maisey is your girl. She spends her nights listening to podcasts and sleuthing, but when she suspects that a killer is living next door, Maisey knows that she needs a professional partner…so Odin Shaw enters the picture. Odin has muscles for days, and he doesn’t even blink when he faces danger. He’s just the PI that she wants. Danger, romance, twists—time for their story to begin.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2021
321 people are currently reading
792 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
309 books6,808 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
September 20, 2022
This was a suspenseful read, but with some humor and quirkiness. Maisey (h) hires Odin (H) as a PI to help her find out what happened to a missing friend, who she suspects was killed by her neighbor. Odin is former military and a man of few words. Maisey is a college professor (although we see no scenes of her working) who's also a crime enthusiast and a bit excitable. Very opposites attract and the sparks fly from the get-go. The story is written in third person, multi-POV including other characters. No ow/om drama, neither were virgins (it's been a while for each and little is shared of their histories), bc discussed/used.
I really liked these two together and how Odin would put his foot in his mouth with his bluntness and then Maisey was so determined to be a part of every step of the investigation, despite her stirring things up more at times. Odin is a big scary dude but Maisey’s never afraid of him and just sees all these great qualities of his. He sees how special she is too. They had great chemistry and tension and then scenes got very steamy for them. But they also had nice character and relationship development for as quickly as the story and their romance moves (the story takes place over a matter of days). It's not insta-love, but it's close.
Plot-wise, I felt like I needed to suspend some disbelief regarding the mystery and investigation and I think there were a couple of minor plot-holes, but it was still entertaining. Because of the fast pace, this was also a page-turner and there are multiple suspects to keep it interesting.
The story does end with a resolution to the mystery and a HFN where it's clear that these two will be sticking together, but I wanted an extended epilogue (like always). I imagine these characters will pop up in the other stories, but since their romance moved so quickly, an epilogue showing them together with more normality would have made this even better. This book also has an epilogue with a lead-in to one of the other books and earlier in the book there was a hint about the relationship for the next book, both of which I am curious about.
I really liked these two together and how Odin would put his foot in his mouth with his bluntness and then Maisey was so determined to be a part of every step of the investigation, despite her stirring things up more at times. Odin is a big scary dude but Maisey’s never afraid of him and just sees all these great qualities of his. He sees how special she is too. They had great chemistry and tension and then scenes got very steamy for them. But they also had nice character and relationship development for as quickly as the story and their romance moves (the story takes place over a matter of days). It's not insta-love, but it's close.
Plot-wise, I felt like I needed to suspend some disbelief regarding the mystery and investigation and I think there were a couple of minor plot-holes, but it was still entertaining. Because of the fast pace, this was also a page-turner and there are multiple suspects to keep it interesting.
The story does end with a resolution to the mystery and a HFN where it's clear that these two will be sticking together, but I wanted an extended epilogue (like always). I imagine these characters will pop up in the other stories, but since their romance moved so quickly, an epilogue showing them together with more normality would have made this even better. This book also has an epilogue with a lead-in to one of the other books and earlier in the book there was a hint about the relationship for the next book, both of which I am curious about.
September 27, 2022
27th September 2022
A smidge better this third time, I think because I needed something super light and which wasn't intense.
10th November 2021
Review below stands won't be re-reading this again.
1st of August 2021
3 TEPID STARS
Cynthia Eden books may be formulaic but for me, they are usually comfort reads that I can sink into with a smile - for some reason that didn't happen this time.
There were a few moments at the start where I smiled and found cute, but I never found myself drawn to the MCs.
Don't see myself re-reading this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2021
Wooohooo!!! Just met my new top favorite couple…EVER!!!
A favorite couple is a difficult position to find for me. I’m rarely affected by the heroine and if I do enjoy one, they seldom are able to actually become a favorite, much less to be paired with a hero that is also a favorite. It didn’t take long for Maisey and Odin to both win me over. Within a few pages they had me grinning from ear to ear as I mentally rubbed my hands together in glee getting ready for how this was all going to unfold. It was so much better than I anticipated!!!
Maisey was too freaking cute! She talked non-stop when nervous and while she was a professor her passion was true crime. I immediately identified with her in pretty much every way. I adored all her little quirky actions and reactions which served to fire up Odin’s reactions, ramping up my enjoyment ever more so. She was as protective of him as he was of her which was both hilarious and as sweet as anything I’ve ever read.
Odin was immediately a favorite just due to his size and manner. He’s a big, bulking hero that tends to add only monosyllabic responses to any conversation or question. These are difficult boxes to check off of my favorite hero list. And talk about protective...holy muscles! This dude’s picture has to be in the dictionary next to the definition of a brick wall. That’s exactly what he’s like each time Maisey is in any type of danger, real or imagined. Add in the streak of possessiveness that runs through him and I was drooling from the beginning.
This was such a delicious read that kept me turning pages as quickly as possible. Once I started I was unable to stop, I didn’t want to stop. If someone had forced me to do so I would have definitely done an “Odin” on them. The steam level bumped this most enjoyable read up to inferno levels as the chemistry between Odin and Maisey was off the charts. We were also introduced to a couple of new characters that had my alpha heart cheering because I know they’re going to have their own stories and I cannot wait!!!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
A favorite couple is a difficult position to find for me. I’m rarely affected by the heroine and if I do enjoy one, they seldom are able to actually become a favorite, much less to be paired with a hero that is also a favorite. It didn’t take long for Maisey and Odin to both win me over. Within a few pages they had me grinning from ear to ear as I mentally rubbed my hands together in glee getting ready for how this was all going to unfold. It was so much better than I anticipated!!!
Maisey was too freaking cute! She talked non-stop when nervous and while she was a professor her passion was true crime. I immediately identified with her in pretty much every way. I adored all her little quirky actions and reactions which served to fire up Odin’s reactions, ramping up my enjoyment ever more so. She was as protective of him as he was of her which was both hilarious and as sweet as anything I’ve ever read.
Odin was immediately a favorite just due to his size and manner. He’s a big, bulking hero that tends to add only monosyllabic responses to any conversation or question. These are difficult boxes to check off of my favorite hero list. And talk about protective...holy muscles! This dude’s picture has to be in the dictionary next to the definition of a brick wall. That’s exactly what he’s like each time Maisey is in any type of danger, real or imagined. Add in the streak of possessiveness that runs through him and I was drooling from the beginning.
This was such a delicious read that kept me turning pages as quickly as possible. Once I started I was unable to stop, I didn’t want to stop. If someone had forced me to do so I would have definitely done an “Odin” on them. The steam level bumped this most enjoyable read up to inferno levels as the chemistry between Odin and Maisey was off the charts. We were also introduced to a couple of new characters that had my alpha heart cheering because I know they’re going to have their own stories and I cannot wait!!!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
July 21, 2021
When it comes to the PI firm, Trouble for Hire, it seems that serial killers are lurking around every corner! Maisey Bright believes that her neighbor is a killer. Some things about him are just not adding up, and with the way women disappear around him, including her close friend, she needs him caught and for justice to be served. Realizing she can't do it by herself, she hires her own personal PI to get the job done.
Odin Shaw was an ex-military, PI extraordinare. After making headlines over their last case, his firm was known to catch some serious bad guys. Upon meeting Maisey, he thinks she's way off base with her assumptions, but she's too darn cute to turn away. Then he finds the trail of clues and quickly realizes that he will do anything to protect 'his girl'.
"You put yourself in front of me." A hard step toward her. "Don't ever do that sh!t again."
Her shoulders squared. "You put yourself in front of me all the time. It's kinda been your thing since we met."
Another hard step. "Damn straight it's my thing." He towered over her. "In case you missed it, I'm bigger than you, stronger than you, and a million times meaner than you. I can take a threat. I can take an attack."
I loved how quickly these two characters connected on an emotional level. It was intense and the suspenseful events only made their bond stronger. I'm here at the end of the book and I want more. I still have to read War's book, which started it all, and Jinx's book is next, which promises to be hilarious, passionate and fierce. I do hope that there will be a book for Ramsay. I'd love to see if his lost love will ever remember him and how much he meant to her.
Find more here: https://www.nbiblioholic.com
July 15, 2021
For being a romantic suspense story, this was actually really cute. You get the suspense of the search for a possible serial killer, and in the middle of all that, are two awkward people falling in love.
There is just something lovable about a big guy who gets all awkward on people. And Maisey was just as adorable. She jumps head first into danger and thinks everything will be all right. I loved getting to see Odin constantly rushing around to be the buffer between her and danger. Fun book!
There is just something lovable about a big guy who gets all awkward on people. And Maisey was just as adorable. She jumps head first into danger and thinks everything will be all right. I loved getting to see Odin constantly rushing around to be the buffer between her and danger. Fun book!
January 2, 2022
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: Eh. This was cute for what it was. If you’re looking for a possessive alpha man with a quirky ball of energy female, some instalust and instalove, all served with a side of mystery and suspense — this probably will work very well for you! It’s no secret that I’m not a huge fan of insta, I’m also picky about the romance/suspense balance, and I like my closure in some good endings…so this just wasn’t my cuppa tea. But, again! I think lots of my GR friends and followers would probably love this one 👍🏻
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Maisey and Odin’s story. Maisey hires Odin to collect evidence on her neighbor who she is convinced is a serial killer and her friend and work colleague is his latest victim. Odin just started as a private investigator, and he can’t help but try to help the beautiful Maisey. When he expects to let her down easy, things start happening that make him start to believe her first seemingly outrageous theories, and he gets fully involved. There are some cute moments, some sexy times, and some suspenseful scenes…and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing mainly on Maisey and Odin in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove:Yes, there was little development and especially when the overall timeframe of the book (week or 2 at the most?) is taken into account.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Odin. I can see many people loving him. He was a grunting/one-word speaking, possessive, protective, huge alpha male. I just didn’t feel like we really got to know his character that much.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Maisey. I liked her for the most part. I do think we got to know her a little more than the H. She was the right combination of sweet and sassy.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes, but mild
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with what felt like a set up for another book in the series and a HFN ending for the couple .
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: Eh. This was cute for what it was. If you’re looking for a possessive alpha man with a quirky ball of energy female, some instalust and instalove, all served with a side of mystery and suspense — this probably will work very well for you! It’s no secret that I’m not a huge fan of insta, I’m also picky about the romance/suspense balance, and I like my closure in some good endings…so this just wasn’t my cuppa tea. But, again! I think lots of my GR friends and followers would probably love this one 👍🏻
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Maisey and Odin’s story. Maisey hires Odin to collect evidence on her neighbor who she is convinced is a serial killer and her friend and work colleague is his latest victim. Odin just started as a private investigator, and he can’t help but try to help the beautiful Maisey. When he expects to let her down easy, things start happening that make him start to believe her first seemingly outrageous theories, and he gets fully involved. There are some cute moments, some sexy times, and some suspenseful scenes…and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing mainly on Maisey and Odin in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove:Yes, there was little development and especially when the overall timeframe of the book (week or 2 at the most?) is taken into account.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Odin. I can see many people loving him. He was a grunting/one-word speaking, possessive, protective, huge alpha male. I just didn’t feel like we really got to know his character that much.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Maisey. I liked her for the most part. I do think we got to know her a little more than the H. She was the right combination of sweet and sassy.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes, but mild
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with what felt like a set up for another book in the series and a HFN ending for the couple .
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
July 15, 2021
Real rating 4.5 stars! This book had a lot of insta attraction that can make you feel it happened a bit too fast and a bit too heavy early on and our heroine can be a bit eager when it comes to crime solving and she might grate on your nerves BUT ONCE YOU FACTOR IN THE ADORABLE SOFT MOMENTS THEY SHARE WITH EACH OTHER (HELLO SLEEP OVERS????? HUGS AND KISSES???) then you're gonna love this book and give it a higher rating. Another thing I'm willing to overlook is how random the ending was. It was not adding up but im glad i kept reading because it was SO FREAKING AMAZING and now i need book 4 not even book 3 because book 3 deals with Jinx and while I liked him I don't like like him... Yet.
October 2, 2022
3.4 stars. It almost feels like a contemporary romance version of fated mates. These two people immediately are gone for each other.
It’s a light fun book even with the mystery.
It’s a light fun book even with the mystery.
March 14, 2024
🌟Brief Summary:
Odin is recently retired from special ops and is working for his buddies PI business. Hes still getting comfortable in his new job
One day Maisey walks and claims her friend has disappeared and her neighbor is the the culprit and he is a serial killer and she wants him to help her find proof.
This was a super cute and fun murder mystery romance. True to Cynthia Eden there are some twists at the end that you may not see coming.
The banter and light hearted-ness was really enjoyable to read. I liked this couple together
🥀 Hero:
Odin - and bit of a grumpy bulldozer
He’s protective and a bit OTT JP
🦋 Heroine:
Maisey- she is smart and sassy and takes Odin in strides
💭 POV:
3rd person multi POV
🔥 Burn Rate:
Fast -ish they fully give in to their feelings around 50%
But it’s def insta attraction
😡/😍 Angst level:
Medium
❤️🔥 Sexy times & Descriptive sex:
Yes
🌓 Push/Pull:
Yes minor from H to h in the beginning
☠️ OW/OM Drama:
No OW
Mild OM the neighbor has his sights set on her
🤮 OW/OM Sex / Fluid or DNA Exchange:
None
🤬 Cheating:
None
👰🏼♀️ Virgins:
None
Neither had been with anyone in a while and no real history details
⛈️Separation/ 3rd Act Breakup:
None
Safety⚠️Triggers🗡️:
Serial killer
Murder
Disappearance
Kidnapping
🌈Epilogue:
No- it’s a lead into future books
🥂HEA:
HFN
❌My opinion is just that… MY OPINION.
I know we all get passionate about our favorite reads and characters but we should respect each opinions a thoughts. ~Thank you
Odin is recently retired from special ops and is working for his buddies PI business. Hes still getting comfortable in his new job
One day Maisey walks and claims her friend has disappeared and her neighbor is the the culprit and he is a serial killer and she wants him to help her find proof.
This was a super cute and fun murder mystery romance. True to Cynthia Eden there are some twists at the end that you may not see coming.
The banter and light hearted-ness was really enjoyable to read. I liked this couple together
🥀 Hero:
Odin - and bit of a grumpy bulldozer
He’s protective and a bit OTT JP
🦋 Heroine:
Maisey- she is smart and sassy and takes Odin in strides
💭 POV:
3rd person multi POV
🔥 Burn Rate:
Fast -ish they fully give in to their feelings around 50%
But it’s def insta attraction
😡/😍 Angst level:
Medium
❤️🔥 Sexy times & Descriptive sex:
Yes
🌓 Push/Pull:
Yes minor from H to h in the beginning
☠️ OW/OM Drama:
No OW
Mild OM the neighbor has his sights set on her
🤮 OW/OM Sex / Fluid or DNA Exchange:
None
🤬 Cheating:
None
👰🏼♀️ Virgins:
None
Neither had been with anyone in a while and no real history details
⛈️Separation/ 3rd Act Breakup:
None
Safety⚠️Triggers🗡️:
Serial killer
Murder
Disappearance
Kidnapping
🌈Epilogue:
No- it’s a lead into future books
🥂HEA:
HFN
❌My opinion is just that… MY OPINION.
I know we all get passionate about our favorite reads and characters but we should respect each opinions a thoughts. ~Thank you
July 22, 2022
a bit of everything
This was an enjoyable read. 5 stars to Odin, he was awesome and I really wanted to get to know him better. I am not sure if he has been in other books but I am going to find out. Maisey was great too, such a positive influence on Odin and of course they fell for each other and sparks flew. For a suspense/thriller book, there was sure plenty of funny moments. But there was also murder and a killer on the loose. I would definitely read more from this series and will go back to number 1 and start there. Jinx will be one I look forward to reading.
This was an enjoyable read. 5 stars to Odin, he was awesome and I really wanted to get to know him better. I am not sure if he has been in other books but I am going to find out. Maisey was great too, such a positive influence on Odin and of course they fell for each other and sparks flew. For a suspense/thriller book, there was sure plenty of funny moments. But there was also murder and a killer on the loose. I would definitely read more from this series and will go back to number 1 and start there. Jinx will be one I look forward to reading.
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July 11, 2021
I loved the mystery here! The romance was great too, but secondary. I wonder what's the deal with Jinx and Ali, and definitely can't wait for the Ramsey/Whitney story.
January 7, 2022
I feel so bad for not liking this book, I feel like I might be in the minority on this.
When I read the synopsis, I was so excited. A female character who is obsessed with true crime -- definitely sign me up! I also developed a certain appreciation for grumpy-sunshine trope, especially about heroes who are only "happy" and exuberant with the heroine. So all in all, I should've enjoyed this book, but sadly I didn't.
The character background of Maisey was very interesting, I definitely loved that she was given the background that she had. Sadly, I didn't think there was a lot to know about Odin, and as I'm writing this review, I realized that the author only gives one of the main characters a solid and fleshed out background but not both. I don't think she's consciously doing that, but it's what's happening.
With No Escape From War, it was War that had the fleshed-out background. All I knew about Rose was that she was a good reporter, everything else about her character was shown through her actions in the book, like how loyal she is and much drive she puts into achieving the facts of the news she's reporting, etc. And from this book, it was Maisey who had that extensive background, while all I knew about Odin was he was Delta and he was shy. But nothing concrete about his upbringing and experiences.
I think that totally takes me out from appreciating the characters because it feels like I don't really know them outside of what's currently happening in the book and how their friends (side characters) describe them to be. I wish this wouldn't be the same in the third book.
I didn't like the insta-love in this book, it was all too soon. I didn't even get a chance to actually fall in love with them, so I couldn't root for them. I was so apathetic about the entire romance.
In reality, I get that there are quirky people. There are people who are also awkward with socializing with new people, but I didn't like the quirkiness of Maisey. It felt forced and way over the top that it fell short, in my opinion. As for Odin, I didn't like how his shyness and awkwardness was presented/written. It was painful to read.
Also, I felt like Maisey was just too in the way all the time. Always forcing to be included and in the loop, even when she's not equipped/ready to be. I found myself annoyed with how she acted whenever Odin and Jinx would try to reason out with her and explain how or why certain things should be done.
In terms of the mystery, it was okay. Nothing too special or exciting, even. There was a slight reveal on Jinx's relations that shocked me more than the killer/mystery reveal.
Overall, this book isn't bad, I just ended up not enjoying it at all. A lot of people loved this, so if you're not put-off by things I mentioned, then give this go. I definitely will be continuing with the series, I'm excited to read Jinx's book, I love him when he was introduced -- he's very casual and easy-going so I'm looking forward to seeing how he will be with his love interest.
I hope that when you pick up this book, you'd enjoy more than I did.
When I read the synopsis, I was so excited. A female character who is obsessed with true crime -- definitely sign me up! I also developed a certain appreciation for grumpy-sunshine trope, especially about heroes who are only "happy" and exuberant with the heroine. So all in all, I should've enjoyed this book, but sadly I didn't.
The character background of Maisey was very interesting, I definitely loved that she was given the background that she had. Sadly, I didn't think there was a lot to know about Odin, and as I'm writing this review, I realized that the author only gives one of the main characters a solid and fleshed out background but not both. I don't think she's consciously doing that, but it's what's happening.
With No Escape From War, it was War that had the fleshed-out background. All I knew about Rose was that she was a good reporter, everything else about her character was shown through her actions in the book, like how loyal she is and much drive she puts into achieving the facts of the news she's reporting, etc. And from this book, it was Maisey who had that extensive background, while all I knew about Odin was he was Delta and he was shy. But nothing concrete about his upbringing and experiences.
I think that totally takes me out from appreciating the characters because it feels like I don't really know them outside of what's currently happening in the book and how their friends (side characters) describe them to be. I wish this wouldn't be the same in the third book.
I didn't like the insta-love in this book, it was all too soon. I didn't even get a chance to actually fall in love with them, so I couldn't root for them. I was so apathetic about the entire romance.
In reality, I get that there are quirky people. There are people who are also awkward with socializing with new people, but I didn't like the quirkiness of Maisey. It felt forced and way over the top that it fell short, in my opinion. As for Odin, I didn't like how his shyness and awkwardness was presented/written. It was painful to read.
Also, I felt like Maisey was just too in the way all the time. Always forcing to be included and in the loop, even when she's not equipped/ready to be. I found myself annoyed with how she acted whenever Odin and Jinx would try to reason out with her and explain how or why certain things should be done.
In terms of the mystery, it was okay. Nothing too special or exciting, even. There was a slight reveal on Jinx's relations that shocked me more than the killer/mystery reveal.
Overall, this book isn't bad, I just ended up not enjoying it at all. A lot of people loved this, so if you're not put-off by things I mentioned, then give this go. I definitely will be continuing with the series, I'm excited to read Jinx's book, I love him when he was introduced -- he's very casual and easy-going so I'm looking forward to seeing how he will be with his love interest.
I hope that when you pick up this book, you'd enjoy more than I did.
October 16, 2021
I really loved this heroine. She confused and confounded Odin and I loved watching him fall for her.
July 17, 2021
3.5 stars. The story was good, the plot interesting, Odin was okay but sometimes fell a little flat or seemed a bit too overdramatic. I wasn't a fan of Maisey, honestly. She didn't come off as smart as she should have, she gave off major TSTL vibes without full on going that way.
I'm curious to see how Jinx comes across in the next book and hope we get, at the very least, a novella for Ramsey.
I'm curious to see how Jinx comes across in the next book and hope we get, at the very least, a novella for Ramsey.
June 20, 2022
spoilers
Dnf 37%
So boring. But the h was so stupid. TSTL. not only is she annoying and embarrassing as a human- she’s maybe the dumbest person ever. I literally cringed when she spoke. I have never ever found a h so painful.
Dnf 37%
So boring. But the h was so stupid. TSTL. not only is she annoying and embarrassing as a human- she’s maybe the dumbest person ever. I literally cringed when she spoke. I have never ever found a h so painful.
July 19, 2021
2.5 stars
the story was all over the place and I really didn't like the writing style
the story was all over the place and I really didn't like the writing style
March 18, 2024
3 🌟
Odin (H) doesn’t really believe Maisey (h) when she comes into his PI office claiming she’s living next door to a serial killer. Despite this, his instant attraction to her pushes him to help her investigate anyway.
This was a good second instalment to this series! As with the first book, I picked the baddie in this very early on. It wasn’t a particularly original plot, but it was fairly entertaining nevertheless. There was a slight twist at the end which I also picked but the way it came about was surprising!
I liked Odin and Maisey, they were really sweet together, but I think with everything going on around them, the romance took a bit of a back seat. Maisey was also infuriatingly naive for someone who spent literally all her time researching serial killers and criminals. I just did not like her individual character at all. She read to me like a child or young teenager instead of a woman studying a PHD.
Overall, this was pretty good! I still enjoyed most of it and will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
Safety:
No virgins, no manwhore.
No ow drama.
Sort of om drama from her neighbour but it’s unrequited.
Odin (H) doesn’t really believe Maisey (h) when she comes into his PI office claiming she’s living next door to a serial killer. Despite this, his instant attraction to her pushes him to help her investigate anyway.
This was a good second instalment to this series! As with the first book, I picked the baddie in this very early on. It wasn’t a particularly original plot, but it was fairly entertaining nevertheless. There was a slight twist at the end which I also picked but the way it came about was surprising!
I liked Odin and Maisey, they were really sweet together, but I think with everything going on around them, the romance took a bit of a back seat. Maisey was also infuriatingly naive for someone who spent literally all her time researching serial killers and criminals. I just did not like her individual character at all. She read to me like a child or young teenager instead of a woman studying a PHD.
Overall, this was pretty good! I still enjoyed most of it and will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
Safety:
No virgins, no manwhore.
No ow drama.
Sort of om drama from her neighbour but it’s unrequited.
September 24, 2023
This book made me smile so much. I really liked Maisey & Odin - for the first time, an Insta-love story didn’t make me want to pull my hair out! They had great chemistry, great banter, and they both seemed to suffer from the same disease of saying exactly what they’re thinking when they look at each other. I thought the suspense part of the book was pretty good as well - it was captivating enough to have me racing through the pages to find out what was happening. The characters were pretty stereotypical & it felt rushed at times, but this did not diminish my enjoyment. This was a fun read & I’m going to need to read the rest of the series.
July 14, 2022
This was funny and sweet and interesting. I'm a huge sucker for former military guys with the must protect people vibe. Odin was a great guy. And Maisie was the adorable sunshine bubbly girl with brains and a big heart. There was adult content and language, but I'm still grinning from ear to ear as I finished this and went to find the rest of the books in this series.
April 11, 2024
This had the makings to be really good, the premise was solid and the characters were interesting but it just skimmed the surface. A little disappointed, but I'll never say no to a grumpy x sunshine.
A bit too insta love for my taste.
A bit too insta love for my taste.
January 8, 2025
I liked this one even more than the last book. I am excited to keep reading in the series. Quick easy read, not too much angst and an awkward protective grump and sunshiney true crime obsessed woman.
July 13, 2021
What can we say about Odin? He’s dark,grumpy and delicious. The banter between Odin and Maisy is so great! Lots of action and suspense. Steamy, you can feel their chemistry. Oh, and a serial killer to capture. HEA.
July 14, 2022
Lovely
Despite the clichéd plot, this is a sweet, suspenseful, funny and moving read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to the other books in the series.
Despite the clichéd plot, this is a sweet, suspenseful, funny and moving read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to the other books in the series.
March 28, 2024
I loved it too and the insta love thing didn't bother me at all
July 25, 2021
2,5 stars
Oooo the mess ... I got used to the slightly different way the author wrote her books so even if i wasn't totally into it, the books were a good way of passing time even if very forgettable and quite the same. The story itself could be entertaining at least since the writing is fluid. This one was not even that...
It was weird, not entertaining, the mystery so bad and going all over the places without making any sense that the "miracle" at the end didn't even phased me. The "love" story was without a spark, also a bit weird (and i usually like the weird but not that kind lol) and lacking of everything. It took me the all week end (starting friday) to finish it when i thought it would take no more than a day or two.
Bleh ...
Oooo the mess ... I got used to the slightly different way the author wrote her books so even if i wasn't totally into it, the books were a good way of passing time even if very forgettable and quite the same. The story itself could be entertaining at least since the writing is fluid. This one was not even that...
It was weird, not entertaining, the mystery so bad and going all over the places without making any sense that the "miracle" at the end didn't even phased me. The "love" story was without a spark, also a bit weird (and i usually like the weird but not that kind lol) and lacking of everything. It took me the all week end (starting friday) to finish it when i thought it would take no more than a day or two.
Bleh ...
January 18, 2022
This book has it moments but they are few. and far between. Yes, I liked the twists and turns this author is known for. I just didn’t believe the speed the couple advanced to so quickly.
At first Maisey comes across as a little looney. And who lets a perfect stranger move into her house the first day they meet? Especially, a huge, intense man like Olin.
For me the storyline was weak and boring for 75% of the book. I will say the ending is where we see the talents of this writer.
At first Maisey comes across as a little looney. And who lets a perfect stranger move into her house the first day they meet? Especially, a huge, intense man like Olin.
For me the storyline was weak and boring for 75% of the book. I will say the ending is where we see the talents of this writer.
July 31, 2021
[1.25 star] the first book was okay but i didn't like this second book to be honest. the heroine is just all over the place. i like heroine who are tough but this heroine is like a tough wannabe. additionally, the way the hero keep trying to shut the heroine up by kissing her repeatedly or wanna fuck her is just childish as shit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2021
This book was very forgettable. I kept putting it down, leaving it a few days, then picking it back up.
August 13, 2021
2.5! Odin was okay, Maisey I didn’t like much.
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