Concrete Clockwork

by Laura Breck

Ex-military operative Lottie Nightshade is enjoying civilian life helping her widowed sister raise three teenagers. When a last-minute job interview turns out to be blackmail, her peaceful days are over. Lottie is given two choices, and the least deplorable of them is doing wetwork for an eccentric millionaire.

Philanthropist Dane Harrington has no option but to blackmail Lottie Nightshade. Dane was contracted to terminate a bomber who threatened to level a new arena in St. Paul, Minnesota. The stakes are too high to trust the time-critical mission to anyone but a skilled operative, and Dane knows Ms. Nightshade will not do the job willingly.

When the bomber realizes he’s been targeted for extermination, the hired killer is already closing in on him. The only way he’ll live to trigger the arena’s destruction is by stopping Lottie Nightshade.

Lottie feels the bomber’s cold stare watching her every move as the timer ticks closer to detonation. When he sets off a series of explosions and people begin to die, Lottie realizes she may need to give up her own life to end the bomber’s.

265 pages, Paperback

Published March 9, 2021

About the author

Author - The Philanthropist Series: Gripping Suspense Outside the Law

Reviews

[➦Paulette & Her Sexy Alphas · Rating 4 out of 5]

TTitle: ➳ Concrete Clockwork
Series ➳ The Philanthropist 1#
Author: ➳ Laura Breck
Published: April 6th 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐

ღ I’m very excited to have new author to add to my new favorite list…. once I started this book last night, I couldn’t quite put it down… so this morning I’m my 3rd ☕☕☕

Without a doubt, Laura Breck is a great storyteller! She brings her strong women characters to life, making them people we want to know---. This first book of a new series will not disappoint.
Lottie⬇



Ex-military operative Lottie Nightshade is enjoying the simple life of being a civilian. living in her childhood home with her older sister(?) & her three teenagers ()

Opening Line: “I want to start by letting you know, Ms. Nightshade, the singular reason we are here today is so I may blackmail you.”
Imagine Lottie surprise when she realize the interview request…was merely a pretense to bring her there to Blackmail her ….. After that day Lottie’s life will never be the same & she’ll stop at nothing to protect her family!

Philanthropist Dane Harrington – or as he prefers to be called – Harrington….. he is mystery man, with so many layers, but he does have agenda in mind for Lottie, to rid the world of evil people at any cost... I truly cannot wait for Lottie to remove Harrington’s layers & uncover his secrets

I love a strong heroine and that she was willing to fight against

[Barbara Lack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an explosive new series. When I read a sample I was intrigued but worried because this was a new to me author. I am so glad I took the chance and read this book. I read it straight through. I just couldn’t put the book down. I loved Lottie. She is a take charge and get the job done kind of woman. Harrison is a bit mysterious and definitely dangerous. There is a lot of subterfuge at play in this book and a lot of twists and turns. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cathy Egan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Laura Breck. I love suspense, so this was right up my alley. Lottie Nightshade is former military with special ops training. She has a secret that someone is using to blackmail her into performing a job that she really doesn't want to do. Because of the nature of the job, she can't tell her family what she's doing. When an attempt is made on her life, she goes to great lengths to protect her loved ones and catch a killer. I enjoyed this book very much. There were a few parts where I was confused on the characters, but for the most part it was really good and the author's writing style flows well.

[Tiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never really been a suspense reader, but this story caught my eye and I couldn't put it down....until my Kindle died, then after a recharge, I finished it.
Lottie Nightshade has a job, but another, better paying one would be nice. She goes for an interview and ends up doing things she never thought she'd have to do again. Ex Military, she thought all of her records were sealed, but Mr. Atto's has somehow learned what she used to do. And he wants her to do something for him.
Harrington needs something taken care of, but he has his butler switch roles with him. He's being careful . Atto's has a list of things for Lottie to take care of. She'd like to just run, but her family wouldn't be able to go with her. And her sister, nephew and neices are very important to her.

This book is a page turner. Make sure you have a full battery on your Kindle.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author is new to me but I'm very happy I took the chance to review for her because this story was fascinating and fun to read, not to forget thrilling. Without kids I wouldn't have stopped reading. Lottie thinks she's at a job interview for an assistant job but that's far from the truth. In fact her military background catches up on her or more like it her secret abilities. She's threatened to take the job and she didn't expect half of the things that happen to her.

That's all I'm going to tell you because you need to read this book for yourself.

I'm already looking forward to Lottie's next mission in book 2 of this amazing series!

I received an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

[Anjana · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story is an odd mix of genres. It does not go the way one would (or at least I did) assume it would go. We first encounter the lead protagonist attending an interview for a fancy job, or so she assumes. She is caught in an inescapable net, and the only thing she can do is follow instructions. There is a timer on an issue, and Lottie has to beat the clock to save lives, including hers and the ones she loves.
The ending and the provided semi-twist made it worth finishing, but this was not a book for me. Although they were all described well, I struggled to connect with the people, even though the writing was pretty efficient. The author did a great job presenting the story, but the story itself did not hold my emotional attention. A lot is happening in the story, and it is a reasonably quick read.
It is the kind of book where I say that I personally did not enjoy, but others will! I would recommend it to the readers of the more romantic thriller genres. The possibilities of relationships are laid down more as a subtext than actually on the page. There is an undercurrent that might be picked up to be the focus in future instalments, which is again something most readers would appreciate. On the whole, I did not want to talk down the book but still bring out why it was not for me. I hope I managed to convey that with this review!
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Dana Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Thrill ride with many twists and turns!!
I was invited to read Concrete Clockwork as an ARC. I'm a big Tom Clancy, John Grisham fan, and this book fell nicely into that niche.
Laura Breck keeps you intrigue as you dive into the world of ex-military mercenary Lottie Nightshade. Lottie is everything I love in a female character. Tough, smart, sassy, and independent, Lottie takes control of the mission she's forced into and shows her new boss what she's made of. A true survivor.

Harrington, Lottie's new employer, is the guy you want to hate but really can't help but love.
Their business relationship is a dynamic push and pull. You can feel the level of respect between them underneath the distrust and threats.
If you like a good thriller like me, you we will enjoy Concrete Clockwork.
I can't for more Lottie Nightshade!!
Review by:
Dana Christy (Author of A Heart's Salvation and A Heart's Revenge)

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Breck is a new author to me but I absolutely loved reading this book.
Lottie is being blackmailed into going back into the killing game.
Will she be able to find the bomber before he succeeds in setting off the bombs at the new arena.
When the bomber sets his sights on taking out Lottie will she be able to find him before he kills her.
Full of suspense and so much drama but also a story that keeps you gripped.
A must read with a brilliant ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure I wanted to read a suspense book but boy was I wrong great story line fantastic twists I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the second book give this Author a try for I’m so glad I did I’ve already recommended this book to friends and family

[Rahel Charikar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Concrete Clockwork" by Laura Breck is a rollercoaster of a thriller that earns its five stars with a gripping narrative, well-developed characters, and heart-pounding action. From the very first page, the story grabs hold and doesn't let go, delivering a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The protagonist, Lottie Nightshade, is a compelling and dynamic character. Breck skillfully portrays her as a tough ex-military operative with a sense of duty and a vulnerable side, making her instantly relatable. Lottie's transition from civilian life to a high-stakes mission driven by blackmail is portrayed with authenticity, adding depth to her character.

The plot is intricately woven, combining elements of suspense, action, and a race against time. The stakes are high, and the tension escalates with each passing chapter. The inclusion of Dane Harrington, the philanthropist forced into a moral dilemma, adds another layer of complexity to the story. The ethical dilemmas faced by the characters make them more human and relatable.

Breck's writing is sharp and vivid, creating a cinematic experience for the reader. The scenes are well-described, allowing the reader to visualize the action and feel the intensity of the situations. The pacing is expertly handled, with no lulls in the narrative, ensuring that the reader remains engrossed from start to finish.

The theme of sacrifice and heroism is powerfully portrayed as Lottie confronts the bomber and faces the prospect of sacrificing herself to save others. The emotional depth and the moral quandaries explored in the story elevate "Concrete Clockwork" beyond a typical action thriller, adding substance to the adrenaline-fueled plot.

In conclusion, "Concrete Clockwork" is a masterfully crafted thriller that excels in all the elements of the genre. Laura Breck has created a compelling and unforgettable story with well-drawn characters, a gripping plot, and a satisfying blend of action and emotion. Fans of thrillers and suspense novels will find "Concrete Clockwork" to be a thrilling and rewarding read that leaves them eagerly anticipating Laura Breck's future works.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

I was definitely drawn into this story from page 1 and enjoyed the cat-and-mouse aspect of the story. Lottie is a strong lead character although not always as observant as I would have liked her to be. I guess you could argue that she lets certain things about Attos and Harrington slip by because of everything else going on, but there are hints that she realizes things aren't quite what they seem but then it's dropped almost right away. I'm also trying to figure out Harrington's feelings toward Lottie - he has no problem using her to meet his own needs, but gets all upset when she even suggests he's ruthless and only cares about himself. I am also left trying to figure out exactly what's going on between Lottie and Stone (are they just growing into really good friends? are they sleeping together? what's their story?). Like I said before I really loved the thriller part of this story between Lottie and Balfour, but found the ending between them a bit anti-climatic. He has killed innocent people, tried to kill her and her family on multiple occasions and the final fight between them felt too quick and easy. The little twist involving him and his sister was something I wondered about previously in the story, but it just didn't seem to make total sense when it was confirmed at the end. With a few little fixes involving the characters this series could be really good. This author is great at writing the tense, thriller aspects of the story. I'm looking forward to reading book 2 whenever it comes out! A solid 3.5 stars.

[Sabine Honig · Rating 4 out of 5]

The premise of this story is intriguing to say the least. Lottie Nightshade is a former military operative who is now helping her sister raise three kids as a civilian. It is what she did to help her sister before the events in the book start, that gets her blackmailed at what she thinks is a job interview. She is given two choices and opts rather reluctantly to do wetwork for a millionaire.

A bomber is threatening to blow up a stadium in St. Paul Minnesota and Lottie is the only one the philanthropist and millionaire, Dane Harrington, can think of who could take the job on this time sensitive and high-stakes mission. What follows is Lottie in action as she tries to get to the bottom of who wants to blow up the stadium.

This is quite an action-packed adventure from beginning to end. There are explosions, and people dying and threats to her family as Lottie races to find out who is targeting her and also who wants to blow up the stadium as well as other twists and turns. The bomber is good, but Lottie is even better, but will she come out on top?

I liked the touch of adding the automata, which matched with the image on the cover and played a significant part in the story as well.

This is a very interesting and action filled start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what the next adventure will be for Lottie Nightshade and her boss Dane Harrington.

[Chrissie · Rating 4 out of 5]

☕ Book Review ☕

☕ Concrete Clockwork by Laura Breck

☕ Publication Date - 9th March 2021

☕ Ex-military operative Lottie Nightshade is enjoying civilian life helping her widowed sister raise three teenagers. When a last-minute job interview turns out to be blackmail, her peaceful days are over. Lottie is given two choices, and the least deplorable of them is doing wetwork for an eccentric millionaire.
Philanthropist Dane Harrington has no option but to blackmail Lottie Nightshade. Dane was contracted to terminate a bomber who threatened to level a new arena in St. Paul, Minnesota. The stakes are too high to trust the time-critical mission to anyone but a skilled operative, and Dane knows Ms. Nightshade will not do the job willingly.
When the bomber realizes he's been targeted for extermination, the hired killer is already closing in on him. The only way he'll live to trigger the arena's destruction is by stopping Lottie Nightshade.

☕ Concrete Clockwork is a fast-paced suspense novel, full of twists and turns, which kept me turning the pages right to the end.

☕ The characters are well developed, Lottie is a take charge and get the job done kind of woman. Harrison is a bit mysterious and definitely dangerous. I can't wait to see what they get up to in the next book of the series!

[Sharon Grow · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lottie Nightshade left the military, after twelve years of service, she thought she was done with killing…but she was wrong. Now she is being blackmailed to work as an assassin, to eliminate those that the law can’t. Should she refuse, certain details about her abusive brother-in-law’s death will be made available to the police. She is not concerned for herself, but when they threaten her sister, she has no choice. A man is threatening to blow up an arena, killing many unless his demands are met. The bombs are already in place so Lottie must find him before he makes good on his threat. A back-and-forth suspense as Lottie matches wits with the bomber. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)

[Teresa Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were awesome, three-dimensional, and well developed. There was unending suspense and action. Plus, it was in one of my favorite genres - covert ops. This book would have received a solid 5-stars if not for the over-use of profanity. I hope Ms. Breck doesn't have children because it would be a shame to kiss them with that mouth…:). Maybe I'm showing my age and upbringing but I am much more disappointed when a female author resorts to gutter language. In my opinion, Ms. Breck is much too talented to resort to that.

I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.

[Terri McClean · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different approach to the mercenary for hire storyline. The book has enough action to keep you reading, enough twists to keep you guessing and enough family oriented storyline to keep you interest in the heroine. There are a couple open ended storylines ,but as this is the start of a series I imagine these will be explained as the series progresses. That said, this book is quite able to read as a stand alone. I'm impressed enough with her book to add her series to my TBR pile for the next installment.

[Mary Nova · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author's grasp of description and dialogue make this book uniquely enjoyable: Harrington’s voice was the dark chocolate of a seducer...

This book starts with a bang. The first sentence gripped me and I was off... The superb plot and writing never let me go.

I recommend the book, as well as following this author for upcoming books.

[Ellen Smart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a review copy via Voracious Readers Only and I loved this book!! Intrigue, action, suspense and a female operative that kicks some serious a**!! I will definitely be looking for more from this author!

[Maz Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a new author to me, but I was not let down. The book was fast paced and the characters were believable. There was twists and turns.
Great book, will definitely look out for the next in the series.

[Elsbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Fast paced story, with interesting characters. And a fascinating storyline.
I hope part 2 is just as good!

[Karen Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not sure what I was expecting but it wasn't what I got. This book engrossed me start to finish. The nuances are so good in this one. Loved the ending!

[Mailmanr5 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good action, characters and dialogue. Only the plot wasn't solid. I'm A fan of vigilante justice anyway.

[Alice Harker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book pulls you in from the first line and the amount of detail and activity keeps you hooked until you reach the last page. Also loved the different POVs as we get a look into the madman’s head.

Follow Lottie Nightshade as she races against time to stop a bomber from killing hundreds of people.

*the kids ages confused me a little but otherwise it was ok.

**I received a free copy in exchange for honest review.