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Hart and Drake #3
Face to Face
A doctor's legal battle and a detective's stalker threaten their lives and their love in this romantic suspense thriller by the author of The Next Widow.
#1 New York Times-bestseller Sandra Brown called Nerves of Steel, the first Hart and Drake novel, "A perfect blend of romance and suspense. My kind of read." In the second book, Sleight of Hand, you saw Hart and Drake risk everything to save a child and you knew they were meant to be together. Now, see what happens when they lose it all . . .
Drake hunts a stalker with deadly intentions. Hart fights for justice for one special victim while also fending off her ex and his family as they try to destroy everything she holds dear.
Neither realizes the real danger lies with an old enemy whose fury has grown and will not be satisfied with anything less than Hart and Drake's blood . . .
Perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner, Tess Gerritsen, Iris Johansen, and Debra Webb.
Praise for the Hart and Drake series
"Tensions sizzle in this hot new medical thriller by CJ Lyons. Think you know what's going to happen next? Guess again." --Lisa Gardner, New York Times-bestselling author
"Pulse-pounding suspense and hair-raising chills . . . a story of danger and intrigue that defies any reader to put it down." --Susan Wiggs, New York Times-bestselling author
"A page-turner of a story. Nerves of Steel is taut, gripping and nonstop. Don't miss it!" --Carla Neggers, New York Times-bestselling author
#1 New York Times-bestseller Sandra Brown called Nerves of Steel, the first Hart and Drake novel, "A perfect blend of romance and suspense. My kind of read." In the second book, Sleight of Hand, you saw Hart and Drake risk everything to save a child and you knew they were meant to be together. Now, see what happens when they lose it all . . .
Drake hunts a stalker with deadly intentions. Hart fights for justice for one special victim while also fending off her ex and his family as they try to destroy everything she holds dear.
Neither realizes the real danger lies with an old enemy whose fury has grown and will not be satisfied with anything less than Hart and Drake's blood . . .
Perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner, Tess Gerritsen, Iris Johansen, and Debra Webb.
Praise for the Hart and Drake series
"Tensions sizzle in this hot new medical thriller by CJ Lyons. Think you know what's going to happen next? Guess again." --Lisa Gardner, New York Times-bestselling author
"Pulse-pounding suspense and hair-raising chills . . . a story of danger and intrigue that defies any reader to put it down." --Susan Wiggs, New York Times-bestselling author
"A page-turner of a story. Nerves of Steel is taut, gripping and nonstop. Don't miss it!" --Carla Neggers, New York Times-bestselling author
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2011
422 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Lyons
80 books893 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels, former pediatric ER doctor CJ Lyons has lived the life she writes about in her cutting edge Thrillers with Heart.
Two times winner of the International Thriller Writers coveted Thriller Award, CJ has been called a "master within the genre" (Pittsburgh Magazine) and her work has been praised as "breathtakingly fast-paced" and "riveting" (Publishers Weekly) with "characters with beating hearts and three dimensions" (Newsday).
Learn more about CJ's Thrillers with Heart at www.CJLyons.net
Two times winner of the International Thriller Writers coveted Thriller Award, CJ has been called a "master within the genre" (Pittsburgh Magazine) and her work has been praised as "breathtakingly fast-paced" and "riveting" (Publishers Weekly) with "characters with beating hearts and three dimensions" (Newsday).
Learn more about CJ's Thrillers with Heart at www.CJLyons.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 17, 2012
This could be the end of this series/trilogy or there could be more, I have no idea. Part of the story demands some more information and playing out but I don't know if the author will follow through.
This trilogy drove me a little crazy. The plotline was interesting enough to keep me reading late into the night. But the leads did such impulsive, childish, stupid things, I found them completely exasperating.
There were almost no conversations with each other where one didn't think "I just won't tell him/her about that part...." and "that part" was usually the information the other needed to know! And there was no good reason for keeping it back. Just some manufactured, "I can take care of myself," "they'll think I'm not fit for work..." nonsense.
They also have a tendency to get ticked off at each other and walk out mid-argument, often cutting the other off or ruthlessly holding back yet another crucial tidbit. Then, a minute later, he/she thinks "what have I done?" There were so many internal monologues about the mistake he/she just made and then a nearly exact repetition of the same mistake! This is amateurish and contrived, IMO. An author should be able to follow a coherent path of normal communication between characters and make events happen without manufacturing conflict this way.
Instead we have two characters who should have been much more likable being pulled down and tainted by the weight of those contrivances. What I've said before about Clayton and Whitney (Judith McNaught's "Whitney My Love") ends up working well for these two: the only good thing about them finding their HEA (or maybe HFN in this series, who knows), is that it saves anyone else from ever having to be with either one of them.
And you know what? I will probably read another one if it's published because I will want to know what happens with the stuff left hanging out there. And that's what's so frustrating about this series. It had so much potential, but the lead characters just make you want to bang your head against the wall. They're both damaged and I understand they'll be glitchy, but that's no excuse for their ongoing stupidity. Pretty much everything obnoxious they do seems to be ingrained in their personalities. Oh well.
I bought all three books when they were an Amazon deal for 99 cents each, so at least I'm not out a lot of money. Just disappointed.
This trilogy drove me a little crazy. The plotline was interesting enough to keep me reading late into the night. But the leads did such impulsive, childish, stupid things, I found them completely exasperating.
There were almost no conversations with each other where one didn't think "I just won't tell him/her about that part...." and "that part" was usually the information the other needed to know! And there was no good reason for keeping it back. Just some manufactured, "I can take care of myself," "they'll think I'm not fit for work..." nonsense.
They also have a tendency to get ticked off at each other and walk out mid-argument, often cutting the other off or ruthlessly holding back yet another crucial tidbit. Then, a minute later, he/she thinks "what have I done?" There were so many internal monologues about the mistake he/she just made and then a nearly exact repetition of the same mistake! This is amateurish and contrived, IMO. An author should be able to follow a coherent path of normal communication between characters and make events happen without manufacturing conflict this way.
Instead we have two characters who should have been much more likable being pulled down and tainted by the weight of those contrivances. What I've said before about Clayton and Whitney (Judith McNaught's "Whitney My Love") ends up working well for these two: the only good thing about them finding their HEA (or maybe HFN in this series, who knows), is that it saves anyone else from ever having to be with either one of them.
And you know what? I will probably read another one if it's published because I will want to know what happens with the stuff left hanging out there. And that's what's so frustrating about this series. It had so much potential, but the lead characters just make you want to bang your head against the wall. They're both damaged and I understand they'll be glitchy, but that's no excuse for their ongoing stupidity. Pretty much everything obnoxious they do seems to be ingrained in their personalities. Oh well.
I bought all three books when they were an Amazon deal for 99 cents each, so at least I'm not out a lot of money. Just disappointed.
November 6, 2011
Face to Face is the third book in the Hart and Drake series. Like the other two, once I starting reading this one I could not stop. It is combination of suspense, mystery and romance that keeps the pages turning. The characters built upon the creations of the previous books, but if you had not read them you would still understand and be able to follow this story. It gave enough back information to help the reader out without slowing down the pace. This story kept me guessing with ever twist and turn. The sides of the characters are developed to the extent that we see both the good and the bad.
I would recommend this book for anyone who has read Lyons books in the past or for people who want to try something completely different. You will not be disappointed.
I would recommend this book for anyone who has read Lyons books in the past or for people who want to try something completely different. You will not be disappointed.
November 4, 2011
Face to Face is the third in the Hart and Drake series and is a well crafted story packed with action, suspense, mystery, and romance. I was quickly drawn into the story and eagerly kept turning the pages to find out what happened next.
We see Cassie and Drake struggle to deal with the aftermath of the events of Sleight of Hand, as well as Cassie’s pending lawsuit and Drake’s stalker. Throw in gang fights, a young boy alone on the streets, and a pregnant teenager and we’ve got CJ at her best! Did I mention a twisted stalker? We are drawn to Hart and Drake because we find them at their worst (‘warts and all’) and at their best.
Face to Face kept me guessing all the way. I had my suspicions and immediately disliked a few of the characters - rightly so of course. I thought it was a great read and it is a keeper in my CJ Lyons collection. Definitely recommended for those who love thrillers mixed with romance and stirred with a bit of mystery.
I received this ARC e-book from the author for the purpose of providing a review.
We see Cassie and Drake struggle to deal with the aftermath of the events of Sleight of Hand, as well as Cassie’s pending lawsuit and Drake’s stalker. Throw in gang fights, a young boy alone on the streets, and a pregnant teenager and we’ve got CJ at her best! Did I mention a twisted stalker? We are drawn to Hart and Drake because we find them at their worst (‘warts and all’) and at their best.
Face to Face kept me guessing all the way. I had my suspicions and immediately disliked a few of the characters - rightly so of course. I thought it was a great read and it is a keeper in my CJ Lyons collection. Definitely recommended for those who love thrillers mixed with romance and stirred with a bit of mystery.
I received this ARC e-book from the author for the purpose of providing a review.
March 12, 2013
Wow, I read this incredibly fast - I just couldn't put it down. Strangely repeatitive in the patterns of the characters and their push-pull relationship, and yet at the same time taking them to a whole new level. But there was so much closure here she's either taking these stories in another direction completely now, or she's ending the series. While I hope its not the end, at the same time I find it to be a great way to end it.
June 9, 2015
Full of thrills.
So many emotional thrills, enough for two books. Fast paced, abused children and babies, gangs. Hart needs to carry a handbag, so her cell will be with her. Also great love story too. Fentephex spelling?
So many emotional thrills, enough for two books. Fast paced, abused children and babies, gangs. Hart needs to carry a handbag, so her cell will be with her. Also great love story too. Fentephex spelling?
June 14, 2012
LOVED this book!
July 22, 2012
Loved the story, very entertaining! Full of action and holding my breath. I'm sappy so I absolutely LOVED the love story, the romance was very realistic.
December 21, 2012
absolutely could NOT put it down!
June 28, 2012
Loved it... Real thriller
June 10, 2017
For some reason I had a hard time keeping up with this particular book. Not really sure why. But the plot was good and the characters were as good as ever. It was probably just me and my mood. Anyway, I thought that it was very well written and the plot was very good though as I may have mentioned before there was a little more sexy than I typically like. Little more angst as well but it worked out. Some of what was going on with the plot did somewhat surprised me in the end and who was the ultimate "bad guy". Some parts were totally expected but there were a few that kind of got me jolted a little. I'm looking forward to reading the last book in the series.
September 30, 2020
Face to face
I loved this storyline. Ms. Lyons has done it again. So suspenseful I could not put it down. Cassie and Drake continue to get in each other's way of their future. They seem to always save each other as they come to realize through all the danger, they are perfect for one another.
I loved this storyline. Ms. Lyons has done it again. So suspenseful I could not put it down. Cassie and Drake continue to get in each other's way of their future. They seem to always save each other as they come to realize through all the danger, they are perfect for one another.
April 20, 2018
It took longer to read this than the last due to no part of CJ - I was just on the wrong mind frame and read other books while reading this. I must admit I saw some of this coming - the bad guys ruled by one but it played out with intensity and fire.
April 9, 2020
I like the story line and the way it played out.
The main characters come across as being too needy and the roles they actually play aren't like that. I guess I got grumpy about their poor me attitudes instead of working as a team to conquer the evil.
The main characters come across as being too needy and the roles they actually play aren't like that. I guess I got grumpy about their poor me attitudes instead of working as a team to conquer the evil.
September 18, 2017
Face to Face review
Face to Face is the third exciting medical suspense book in the Hart and Drake series written by author CJ Lyons.
Face to Face is the third exciting medical suspense book in the Hart and Drake series written by author CJ Lyons.
April 2, 2018
A little obvious, but an OK thriller. Decent series, worth reading.
October 12, 2020
Fantastic
Reading her books is always a treat. I marvel at the way she works all the characters in to the story. This series is riveting and thoroughly enjoyable.
Reading her books is always a treat. I marvel at the way she works all the characters in to the story. This series is riveting and thoroughly enjoyable.
March 15, 2017
Great Book
Great romance, intrigue, heroism, and justice. Quick easy read that you will enjoy. Always trying to figure it out before the author throws you another curve ball.
Great romance, intrigue, heroism, and justice. Quick easy read that you will enjoy. Always trying to figure it out before the author throws you another curve ball.
February 17, 2015
This is the third book in C.J. Lyons Hart & Drake series and once more I am pulled into these characters lives by the writing style of this author! As with people you know and love, these characters can be irritating at times and humorous at others, compelling always and totally explosive when they come together! Drake is being haunted by his past mistakes and it seems to be threatening Hart as well. In order to protect each other they pull apart, putting space between them until they realize that together they are stronger. Hart loses it all but finds that having Drake at her side is all she needs. Drake finds that the one thing he never wanted is the one thing he now wants most with Hart.
As always, thank you C.J. Lyons!
As always, thank you C.J. Lyons!
February 25, 2016
Disappointing
After reading #2 in this series, I was really looking forward to reading this one, #3 Face to Face. I was so disappointed! Compared to the previous book, the plot was neither spellbinding nor cohesive. The action (such as it was) jumped from one character / plot thread to another, at times confusing. This was the weak link in the series and 271 pages wasn't worth the trees killed for it.
After reading #2 in this series, I was really looking forward to reading this one, #3 Face to Face. I was so disappointed! Compared to the previous book, the plot was neither spellbinding nor cohesive. The action (such as it was) jumped from one character / plot thread to another, at times confusing. This was the weak link in the series and 271 pages wasn't worth the trees killed for it.
May 3, 2013
I'm not a fan of romance books. This book is more romance than thriller. I prefer the Lucy series which was more action packed. It's just so mushy. I think I prefer Karin Slaughter's Will Trent series to this. It's cos I'm more into thriller/mystery/murder. I'm reading both authors at the same time.
August 5, 2013
I liked the plot, all the side stories, the twists and turns.
Again I found myself annoyed with both Hart and Drake for the way they were handling things, and themselves. Wasn't that about time they knew that they are a team and not one trying to protect the other and making a huge mess out of things?
Anyway, in the end things seem to be on the right path...
Again I found myself annoyed with both Hart and Drake for the way they were handling things, and themselves. Wasn't that about time they knew that they are a team and not one trying to protect the other and making a huge mess out of things?
Anyway, in the end things seem to be on the right path...
November 10, 2012
Last book in the trilogy. Loved the relationship between Hart and Drake but felt that the author skipped some chapters. There was a lot of bouncing around and no final chapter to explain the aftermath of what happened to everyone.
November 11, 2015
Good continuation of the series. It had been a while since I read the previous 2, but it game me enough info to remind me of what happened in them. I did get a little tired of the two characters trying to do what was best for the other without them explaining what the problem was
Want to read
June 30, 2012.99
Read
July 17, 2012Book 3. I honestly didn't think too much more could happen to two people... But Hang in there... it has a good ending!
July 29, 2012
Definitely the best of the three Hart and Drake series. Lots more action; good story line.
January 14, 2013
love the characters, but get so frustrated with there relationship woes...
January 14, 2013
I like the mixture of romance and suspense that this series has. It kept me guessing, every time I thought I had it figured out.
September 22, 2014
I liked the book okay. It book kept my attention during my car ride home from Atlanta - got it read before I reached home - making the trip a lot more pleasurable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews