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Iron Badges #5

First Knight

This book previously published under the title: Harley, Stealing Happiness

Deputy Aiden McGuire had a secret; her name was Harley.

In front of his friends, he pretended that she didn’t exist. They bantered, they argued, and then they went their separate ways.

But at night, she snuck over to his apartment and the two of them were electric.

Aiden couldn’t put his finger on it, but something wasn’t right.

She never asked for more; no commitment, no promises, no ring.

When he used his police skills to do a little research, he was shocked to discover that Harley kept more than just him as a secret.

Now it’s up to him to save her when her tower of secrets crumble.

180 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2021

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About the author

Danielle Norman

50 books2,195 followers
Before becoming a romance writer, Danielle was a body double for Heidi Klum and a backup singer for Adele. Now, she spends her days trying to play keep away from Theo James who won’t stop calling her or asking her out.
And all of this happens before she wakes up and faces reality where in fact she is a 50 something mom with grown kids, she's been married longer than Theo’s been alive, and now get her kicks riding a Harley.
As far as her body, she can thank, Ben & Jerry’s for that as well as gravity and vodka. But she says that she could never be Adele’s backup since she never stops saying the F-word long enough to actually sing.
Danielle writes about kickass women with even better shoes and the men that try to tame them (silly silly men).


Sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/DNnews

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5 stars
135 (60%)
4 stars
68 (30%)
3 stars
18 (8%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
9,821 reviews178 followers
January 23, 2021
Danielle Norman does it again. With each story I become more addicted. Norman somehow manages to keep senses on full alert even as she sets about stealing your heart. Harley is the girl crush I never saw coming. A wounded spitfire with a smart mouth, a fighting spirit and a fragile heart. At first meeting I was intrigued, but midway through I became enamored. With a warrior's heart she refuses to let her demons win. There's something so beautiful in that. Aiden is her perfect match. A swoon-worthy opponent, but also a fierce ally. Stealing Happiness is a book worth waiting for. Hard to resist. Not easy to put down. Easy to love.
Profile Image for Tami.
268 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2021
I couldn't have asked for a better story for Harley and Aiden. I've been waiting a LONG time for this book!! My only complaint is that I read this book in 2 hours. I honestly could not put it down!! And now it's over and I wasn't ready for it to be over!
Yes, it's that good.
Profile Image for Autumn Review.
1,023 reviews521 followers
January 26, 2021
★NOW AVAILABLE★
𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲, 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 is live! This is a friends to lovers, secret romance, stand alone.

Purchase 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲, 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬: https://www.daniellenorman.com/books/...

Blurb:
I’ve been attracted to one man for years, fellow deputy Aiden McGuire. Our chemistry is off the charts; we argue and banter in front of our friends.
But what no one sees is that I sneak over to his apartment at night and once again our chemistry is off the charts.

I have no clue how long he can keep our secret.

Me? I can keep it forever because I’ve been keeping another one since I was little. My biggest fear is that people discover that I’m not the sharp-tongue, confident, sex kitten that I pretend to be.

When I offer to help my cousin Ridley, the president of the Blood Roses, a vigilante—all ladies MC, my past comes back to haunt me.

Will I be able to keep it all together, my childhood secret, and Aiden, or will my world collapse like a row of dominos, one after the other.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,016 reviews450 followers
January 30, 2021
Harley, Stealing Happiness is a glorious addition in the Iron Orchids series by Danielle Norman. Book 12 is just as fresh and exciting as if you were starting a new series when this is book 12. Harley is a character that you will root for. She's a motorcycle deputy cop in FL. Her past is filled with pain and heartbreak. So you will understand why she's that tough outer shell, yet her secret inner core is soft. I wanted to hug her. The object of her (secret) affections is Aiden McGuire, whose another motorcycle deputy who works with Harley. They are also FWB but Harley wants more but thinks Aiden doesn't. The emotional rollercoaster is deep in this book which is so good. That's heartbreak, drama, passion, angst, secrets, twists, chemistry, heat, feels, attraction, love, romance, family dynamics, ....Plus there is someone who is possibly stalking Harley. So add in danger, suspense, more secrets and the HEA. Yes! What a fabulous romance read! Looking forward to book 13!

My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
Profile Image for Darcy.
15k reviews552 followers
February 16, 2021
The opening to this one...man what a gut punch! It did help with later understanding why Harley was so leery about being tied down to a guy.

I sort of felt sorry for Aiden, he wanted more, tried to show Harley that and was kicked to the curb. And while Aiden might have been technically correct in talking to his boss about Harley, it made me want to gut punch him because it was a dick move.

I was so so with Harley being in on things with the Blood Roses. I think what they do is great, but with Harley being a cop, maybe not the best for her. And of course it was painfully obvious what was going on with the meet up at the bar. While things were a bit crazy at the end, I'm glad that things ended good and that Harley and Aiden are happy.
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,167 reviews68 followers
January 23, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)

Harley and Aiden have a bit of a secret, they are friends with benefits, but their friends have no clue. For Harley this is the perfect arrangement; they have off the charts naughty moments, flirty times, but they are totally separate. For Aiden, its good, but he wants more. He wants to take this relationship to the next level. The moment he starts even hinting at that fact Harley shuts the idea down. Now they are at a crossroads, one that will take them in different directions. Is there any hope of the two trying to make things work?

There is so much more that I didn't cover, but I didn't want to spoil anything. Once again Danielle Norman gives us a really good story, with an amazing cast of characters. I give this 4 stars.
103 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2021
I have been waiting for Harley and Aiden’s story ever since we first met their characters. Harley Scott is a motorcycle deputy in Orlando, Florida. Aiden McGuire is another motorcycle deputy who works with Harley, but he’s also Harley’s friend Bridget’s older brother. Through each book we’ve seen Harley and Aiden’s relationship play out in their banter and teasing. What we didn’t see was the plot twist Danielle Norman threw into this book!

Harley is pulled into helping her cousin when she shows up unannounced. This places a target on Harley’s back, can Aiden and the rest of the Orlando LEO members rally in time to help Harley?
Profile Image for Trace.
135 reviews3 followers
Read
January 24, 2021
I know I have been waiting for this one for a long time. It was so worth the wait.

Completely loved this book. Again you freaked me out with the Prologue. Dani you need to stop doing that. OMG !!

I love how Aiden and Harley bring out the worse in each other but the best of each other as well.
The damn corny jokes they both made. Love Aiden's nickname for her... Monkey

I'm so glad that got their happy ending that they deserve. After everything that had happened in Harley's life she needed it. Cole almost ruined it but Aiden and the gang saved the day.

Can't wait for the series about the Blood Roses.
Profile Image for Becky Wise.
2,951 reviews55 followers
January 23, 2021
Harley, Stealing Happiness is everything I wanted and more when it comes to this Iron Orchids series book. I love how we get to learn more about Harley. She is one tough cookie and when you find out why she is the way she is you just want to wrap her up and not let go. I love we get some of our favorite ladies and men in this one. We get Aiden and his loveable Irish family. The chemistry between Aiden and Harley is so hot. I love how Aiden puts in the work and fights for Harley. You get the emotions, the giggles and the hotness that you are looking for with this one. I couldn't get enough of Harley and Aiden. I loved everything about Harley, Stealing Happiness.
Profile Image for Tiffany Hannick.
764 reviews6 followers
January 24, 2021
Another absolutely amazing book in the Iron Orchids Badges series. We have seen a lot of Harley and Aidan in previous books flirting so it is exciting to finally have their story. Their chemistry and banter is off the charts. There are plenty of antics with Harley and the girls as well that will keep you laughing throughout. We learn why Harley became a cop and you don’t want to miss her story. This book will have you feeling everything. It is filled with heart, laughter, and drama. Harley’s story was well worth the wait.
Profile Image for Belinda.
1,216 reviews15 followers
January 26, 2021
I loved this delightful book by Danielle. I have been waiting to read Harley and Aiden’s book and I wasn’t disappointed. Harley and Aiden’s banter makes their chemistry so good and in this book we see their chemistry develop into something special. The prologue will leave your heart hurting but Aiden will have you swooning through out. I am loving this enthralling series,
Profile Image for Marika.
4,949 reviews102 followers
January 27, 2021
I love Harley, even when she is being stubborn;) I love how feisty she is and I love her even more now that I know more.
Aiden is such a great guy but that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t muck it up.
Another great story in the series with plenty of sexy times, girl time and action!
Profile Image for Kim Lindsay.
241 reviews8 followers
January 26, 2021
Another awesome book by Danielle Norman. I love Harley, the wit she has is hilarious, I really did not want this book to end. Well worth the read. Read it in about 4 hours, couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Meghann Becker.
201 reviews3 followers
February 9, 2021
This is one of the books in Iron Orchids badges series. This book stars Harley. I really like the dynamic between Aiden and Harley and how they are as people. This book had suspense, action, and lots of love. Harley is a hoot.
Profile Image for Char (1RadReader59).
3,447 reviews20 followers
November 4, 2022
No child should have to fear law enforcement, and no child should have to fear their father, but when they are one in the same body... Harley didn’t stand a chance. Her daddy was a trooper and a family abuser, a control freak, and worst of all just pure evil. To the point where she witnessed her father, kill her mother, and then, Harley had to reciprocate, by using his, own weapon. To save herself.

Twenty-five years later, Harley is a motorcycle deputy for Orange County Sheriff's Department, in Florida. She and her posse Bridget, Sadie, Piper, and Kat for fun like, to do the Walmart challenges. It is nothing mean, just odd, and funny. Something more exciting is the fact, that right under everyone’s nose, Aiden, and, Harley for over a year have been fk buddies.

But wouldn’t you know if Aiden has to go and ruin it? How? He asks her to spend the night. Which pretty much freaks her out. For her marriage and family equal the beginning of the end. Don’t forget the only thing she knows as truth, is her family and we know how that ended.

So, when a letter falls out of his pocket, she reads it. She mostly equates it with their affair, but then he mentions red hair, and she loses it. Instead of confronting him about it, she gets mad. Acing him out of her life. Turing all the female friends, against him which in turn made, his guy friends and brother, stop talking to him.

Can he make, it right, and get through, to her that she has it all wrong? And that Harley’s the only one, for him? Or will something, or will someone come in, and all the once put all they had in jeopardy?
Harley has always seemed to say it like it is. But, her sneakiness made her find something, and she twist the truth to justify her truth.

When in reality it fed her fears of being unworthy. But, in her haste to be angry at, Aiden she is doing un-normal risk-taking, not normal for Harley. Almost getting herself killed. Very exciting book. Action-filled suspense. Some of the original characters we get to see are Carter, Kayson, and Stella. But all of the Iron orchids too. Fun read.
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books135 followers
January 28, 2021
Harley and Aiden's story is a friends to lovers, that started as a friends with benefits arrangement and goes from there. Their chemistry is undeniable, but they both are facing an impasse and they have to figure out what they both want. I really enjoyed the story, the characters are great, I found it a bit slow at some points but overall it had mee hooked reading. Definitely like the series.



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Profile Image for Rachel Miller.
20 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2022
Good series

I liked this series a lot. Super snarky and witty characters. I enjoy the banter between the family members as well as their tight nit relationship with their friends.

My main issues with the series are with how the stories are written. There are very weird scene jumps and odd breaks between moments that make no sense. The stories also feel very rushed. I don't mean the characters fall in love too fast I mean moments that could have been savored or explained more are rushed through. A scene about playing cards is further developed than the climactic moments where the suspense could have been drawn out.

These books are all really close to being loved but I feel they need the tension and suspense drawn out a bit more. I mean I'm a Cryer, sad moments always make me cry but in these books those moments are resolved so quickly and with such little tension I don't have time to emotionally connect.

I still recommend this author and I'll read her other books I just hope for more development in the stories. I'd also like the the weird cuts and scene changes to be smoothed out. I feel like I'm dropped out of one scene and slammed into another before I can even transition my brain to understand what's happening. Lots of rereading to see if I missed something.
Profile Image for Jules The Book Junkie Reviews.
1,675 reviews96 followers
January 31, 2021
Harley is one of those characters you can’t help but love. She is feisty and stubborn, but she has a secret or two. In the latest installment of author Danielle Norman’s Iron Orchid series, she has given readers great characters and off-the-charts chemistry.

Swoon-worthy Aiden is the perfect foil for the sassy heroine, Harley. I don’t know how Harley can keep her relationship with Aiden casual, because he would clearly make any woman’s life better. I loved the flirty banter between these two characters.

When Ms. Norman throws a wild, unanticipated twist into the story, the pace takes off and Aiden and Harley reach a fork in the road. I haven’t read the prior books in the series, but I truly enjoyed Harley, Aiden and all the drama of the storyline. The story has a good pace and the plot flows nicely. I predict readers will enjoy finding out which fork of the road Aiden and Harley take, and if they take the same one!


I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Profile Image for Samantha.
469 reviews
January 27, 2021
Wow! I’ve been wait for Harley since before Danielle announced she was officially coming and she did not disappoint!!

I love all the orchids ladies and their men but Harley has a special place in. My heart especially after that WTF!! prologue. There are a couple of things I would have liked to see but they probably wouldn’t have added much to this already amazing story!

Danielles women are all strong independent take no bull poop women they love hard and stand by there morals even if some of them intentionally go looking for trouble because let’s face it, it’s not a love story if there is no drama no misunderstandings and no jokes and let’s not forget the Walmart games.

You will want to slap someone by the end of this book but I’ll let you make your own decisions on who you love more!! but if you haven’t read any of the iron orchids books yet you should definitely dive in to ariels story first!
Profile Image for Sarah Dale.
3,270 reviews77 followers
January 23, 2021
4.5 Happy stars!

We have been teased for so long with Harley and Aiden's relationship and are they/aren't they that I was supper excited for this one and Danielle did not disappoint me!

I devoured this in a couple of hours as once I started I couldn't put it down!!

It was packed with everything, emotion, steam, heart, family, humour and so many of the characters I have loved from previous books too!

Harley and Aiden are perfect for each other if he can just get her to let her walls down and let him in! she has this very good front/defence system going, and after the prologue I'm not surprised and I just want to hug her! I have always loved Harley but my girl crush most certainly increased!

And when it comes to Aiden, just simply .......SWOON!!!

Its hard to write this review without raving about EVERYTHING and spoiling it and you really don't want that so JUST READ IT

ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the Author
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,750 reviews61 followers
January 28, 2021
I won’t lie, I have been waiting for this book almost since the start of the series. Well at least since Harley and Auden have been publicly snarky with each other. In my mind I knew there was more to their relationship than meets the eye. While one one hand I was correct but on the other hand I have to admit I kinda missed the mark.

In Harley, Stealing Happiness we learn her back story which all but broke my heart. It does however explain her outlook on love, life and relationship. As for Aiden, he is over the moon for Harley. But can he convince her to legitimately give him a shot? And is it even possible when he learns her truth?

Amazing read in an outstanding series. This read can’t wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend grabbing up all the Iron Orchids books including Harley’s story.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars!!!
Profile Image for Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog).
2,467 reviews20 followers
January 26, 2021

Blow Away by this story. It will make your heart melt and hurt at the same time. Harley had a horrible childhood and was saved by the family. Now she's a deputy and tries to save the world. On the down-low, she and a fellow cop have been in a relationship for over a year. Aiden is sexy and wants more from Harley. He can't figure out what is holding her back. When she gets involved in her cousin's business things are about to rock her world. What she doesn't realize is the one man that has her heart is the one that will save her. But can Aiden get there before it's too late? And when a bomb is dropped how will they handle it. I love this author and all her stories, this one is one of my 5 favorites.
Profile Image for Cindy Montgomery.
180 reviews4 followers
January 26, 2021
Humor and Suspense in a Perfect Blend!

If you enjoy a story that is humorous as well as suspenseful then this story is for you. I just so enjoyed this very well written story. Harley is a fiercely independent and wants no permanent relationship with a man primarily because of her childhood experiences. Harley has a private sexual relationship with Aiden whom she has great chemistry with. Aiden wants more and this complicates matters.
I loved the humorous moments and it is rare to laugh as much as I did considering the suspenseful moments. I mean what happens to Harley is my number one nightmare and scares me. This is a fantastic read and Danielle Norman has accomplished the perfect balance between humor and suspense. Amazing!
443 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2021
Ahhhhhh! The buildup for Harley and Aiden's story has been ongoing throughout the entire series. I knew there was something going on there, but it turned out to be so much more than I imagined. I loved Harley's character, she's a tough chick, and her backstory is heartbreaking, but explains so much of her relationship with Aiden. I almost died laughing during game night with Aiden's family, his mom reminds me so much of a dear friend I lost a few years back. Girls night at Walmart was hysterical as well. The balance between romance and suspense, as well as drama and humor were spot on. It really was the perfect culmination of Harley and Aiden's defining moments.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,319 reviews22 followers
January 27, 2021
From the first page, readers are thrown into this book without a parachute and it keeps going from there. I will caution those with triggers to read with care. Harley has had a rough life as she grew up in an abusive household that no child should be subjected to. This taught her to stand on her own and that she did not need a man. Aiden is Harley’s opposite in that he grew up in a loving home with siblings and supportive parents. Harley and Aiden have serious chemistry but will her attitude towards men push him away? Adding in some stranger danger and Ms. Norman has penned something wonderful that readers will not be able to put down. I cannot wait for more!
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
13k reviews102 followers
January 30, 2021
Harley has used her difficult childhood as a stepping stone for her career in law enforcement. She is strong and sassy as she hides her emotional scars. She has been enjoying a secret physical relationship with her friend Aiden and is happy with the status quo.

Aiden is Hayley’s friend and co-worker, but he wants much more from her. He wants to make their relationship public and permanent, but she isn’t on board however when her past puts her in jeopardy he is determined to prove to her that they are perfect partners both in life and in love.

This story has all the aspects that you love about this series including humor, heat, captivating characters and all the feels.
Profile Image for Angi.
119 reviews
January 23, 2021
So freaking amazing.

I've been waiting for Aiden and Harley's book since the beginning of this series and Dani did NOT disappoint.

So much happens in this book, so many secrets are revealed, so much love is shared.

I don't want to give anything away but suffice it to say that if you've been following this series you're going to loose your sh*t over this one. If you haven't been following this series you should go back and read the other books just to see what's been going on with these two. Although it's not necessary to do so, I STRONGLY recommend it.

I'm a very happy reader.

Profile Image for Lyne Carroll.
812 reviews3 followers
January 23, 2021
I really loved this book !

I always love to read about strong, kick ass female characters; they project a huge bit of self confidence - gives me the feel that maybe, I could be like them ;)

The banter between Harley and Aiden made me laugh a couple of times; and the Walmart scene... I almost peed in my pants lolllllll

The storyline is solidly set up and very well written; it's gripping and there's action, drama and steamy sexy scenes !!

I highly recommend this book; you won't regret it !

I received an ARC from the author, and I'm giving it an honest review.
Profile Image for Leslie Whitaker.
154 reviews14 followers
January 24, 2021
Great read! Harley and Aiden have been “friends with benefits “ for a while and their friends have no idea. Just the way Harley wants it. When Aiden decides he wants more. He wants Harley and as much as she tries to fight it, she knows she loves him too. They are at a stand still. Him wanting more and her not wanting to face her feelings. As usual, the rest of the gang makes appearances.... Piper, Sadie, Kat, Bridget. This is a great series and I love all the feistiness of these gals and the men who love them.
Profile Image for Emily.
1,737 reviews125 followers
January 25, 2021
"Harley, Stealing Happiness" (Iron Badges Book 5, Iron Orchids Book 12) by Danielle Norman is a terrific read. I absolutely loved Harley and Aiden's story. This story is a fantastic addition to this series. Packed with passion, romance, law enforcement, humor, close friends, family, twists, and more. Parts of this story had me laughing out loud. I loved catching up with this entertaining cast of characters. Highly recommend to all fans of romance, law enforcement, entertaining characters, friends and family, and series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews