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Black's Bandits #7
Black Velvet
She doesn’t believe in heroes anymore. He’ll prove her wrong.
Mercenary Dax Freed would rather stride into the desert naked and covered in honey than pretend to be a reclusive romance novelist’s fake boyfriend, but nobody gave him the option.
Roberta Sharpe writes about heroes for a living, but she already knows they don’t exist in real life. She doesn’t need a former Army Ranger who looks like he could be on her covers camping out in her guest room to prove the theory, but nobody gave her a choice.
When someone breaks into her home and leaves a grisly calling card, her publisher insists she needs a bodyguard. Dax is everything she doesn’t want in her life again. Tall, dark, handsome, and certain of his appeal, it’s almost impossible to ignore the sizzling chemistry between them.
It might not matter, though. The danger lurking in the shadows threatens to ruin more than a chance at love. If Dax is going to save Robbie, he’ll have to unleash the beast within… and prove that heroes don’t just exist in the pages of a novel.
Mercenary Dax Freed would rather stride into the desert naked and covered in honey than pretend to be a reclusive romance novelist’s fake boyfriend, but nobody gave him the option.
Roberta Sharpe writes about heroes for a living, but she already knows they don’t exist in real life. She doesn’t need a former Army Ranger who looks like he could be on her covers camping out in her guest room to prove the theory, but nobody gave her a choice.
When someone breaks into her home and leaves a grisly calling card, her publisher insists she needs a bodyguard. Dax is everything she doesn’t want in her life again. Tall, dark, handsome, and certain of his appeal, it’s almost impossible to ignore the sizzling chemistry between them.
It might not matter, though. The danger lurking in the shadows threatens to ruin more than a chance at love. If Dax is going to save Robbie, he’ll have to unleash the beast within… and prove that heroes don’t just exist in the pages of a novel.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2022
195 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Raye Harris
349 books2,961 followersLynn Raye Harris is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of sizzling military romantic suspense novels and contemporary romance novels. She lives in Alabama with her husband (former military), her cat, and her American Saddlebred horse.
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October 4, 2022BLACK VELVET is LIVE! I'm so thrilled to bring you this story about a romance author and her protector. Poor Robbie has a Kathy Bates in her life, LOL, and Dax has to keep her safe. It's a twisty, turny, swoon-worthy ride through this steamy, suspenseful story!
EXCERPT:
Robbie sniffed. Her sex drive wasn’t dead, but it was definitely in hibernation. She hadn’t entertained anything but a vibrator in her lady parts in about four years now, sad to say.
That’s the only thing that explained the shock of awareness that’d zapped through her when Dax took her hand outside the store. She’d felt a lightning bolt of heat arrow into parts of her that’d made her want to gasp.
She’d managed not to, but her skin had burned every step of the way into the grocery store. She’d been relieved when he’d let her go and grabbed the cart. True to his word, he hadn’t touched her again.
But she’d wanted him to. That was the most damnable thing about it. She’d wanted him to brush against her, even accidentally. Wanted him to take her hand, or put a finger under her chin again.
She’d craved it, and that was definitely alarming. The man was here to protect her and find out who’d broken into her house, not romance her for real.
GRAB YOURS>> Amazon: https://amzn.to/3E5s8dF
Amazon AU, CA, UK: https://mybook.to/BlkVelvetInt
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3xXsnF0
B&N Nook: https://bit.ly/3btW9tj
Kobo: https://bit.ly/39Q4A1Z
EXCERPT:
Robbie sniffed. Her sex drive wasn’t dead, but it was definitely in hibernation. She hadn’t entertained anything but a vibrator in her lady parts in about four years now, sad to say.
That’s the only thing that explained the shock of awareness that’d zapped through her when Dax took her hand outside the store. She’d felt a lightning bolt of heat arrow into parts of her that’d made her want to gasp.
She’d managed not to, but her skin had burned every step of the way into the grocery store. She’d been relieved when he’d let her go and grabbed the cart. True to his word, he hadn’t touched her again.
But she’d wanted him to. That was the most damnable thing about it. She’d wanted him to brush against her, even accidentally. Wanted him to take her hand, or put a finger under her chin again.
She’d craved it, and that was definitely alarming. The man was here to protect her and find out who’d broken into her house, not romance her for real.
GRAB YOURS>> Amazon: https://amzn.to/3E5s8dF
Amazon AU, CA, UK: https://mybook.to/BlkVelvetInt
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3xXsnF0
B&N Nook: https://bit.ly/3btW9tj
Kobo: https://bit.ly/39Q4A1Z
October 1, 2022
ARC received from author
Another great book by Ms. Harris.
Dax and Robbie have amazing chemistry together. I love how understanding he is of her anxiety about meeting new people. I love her pets, Ollie and Lucy. Loved seeing all the previous Bandits and their ladies, plus a couple new Bandits.
I kept waiting on Shade to pop up at the convention.
Another great book by Ms. Harris.
Dax and Robbie have amazing chemistry together. I love how understanding he is of her anxiety about meeting new people. I love her pets, Ollie and Lucy. Loved seeing all the previous Bandits and their ladies, plus a couple new Bandits.
I kept waiting on Shade to pop up at the convention.
October 4, 2022
This is the seventh instalment in the Black’s Bandits series, and while it is a stand-alone story it is more fun if you read the entire series. Especially since we get to check in on some of the couples from previous books.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this story, but I ended up having such a fun time with this one. I loved Dax and Robbie together. They were both kind of prickly to each other to begin with and as they got to know each other they realised that they like each other. I liked seeing their romance unfold as they started to trust each other more and how Dex supported Robbie when she worried about being with other people.
I also really enjoy books about books, writers, or librarians, it can lend itself to a very fun time. I had to laugh when I was calling out Robbie for being TSTL and then a page or so later she realised that she was being that character. And that idea of a romance writer falling out of love with love and trying to write something you don’t feel anymore. But really having someone support Robbie is exactly what she needed to get started again and I think Harris did a great job of reconciling those feelings and creating a world in which her characters can see that potential in themselves and each other. It’s why I love reading romance so much!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this story, but I ended up having such a fun time with this one. I loved Dax and Robbie together. They were both kind of prickly to each other to begin with and as they got to know each other they realised that they like each other. I liked seeing their romance unfold as they started to trust each other more and how Dex supported Robbie when she worried about being with other people.
I also really enjoy books about books, writers, or librarians, it can lend itself to a very fun time. I had to laugh when I was calling out Robbie for being TSTL and then a page or so later she realised that she was being that character. And that idea of a romance writer falling out of love with love and trying to write something you don’t feel anymore. But really having someone support Robbie is exactly what she needed to get started again and I think Harris did a great job of reconciling those feelings and creating a world in which her characters can see that potential in themselves and each other. It’s why I love reading romance so much!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2022
Wow! Dax and Robbie made my heart just sing. They were so wonderful from the beginning of the book. Their ability to attempt to “do the right thing” and wait until after Dax was done protecting here was valiant. I loved how they were open and honest with one another sharing their feelings.
The side twist of Trent was a perfect addition to the story. I couldn’t piece together how Autumn was connected but once she arrived at Robbie’s house, her character screamed the stalker to me. I just never could piece together the why.
Another perfectly written HEA written by Lynn Raye Harris. I just can’t get enough of her books. Now the wait begins for the next one.
I was blessed with an advanced copy with the understanding of an honest review.
The side twist of Trent was a perfect addition to the story. I couldn’t piece together how Autumn was connected but once she arrived at Robbie’s house, her character screamed the stalker to me. I just never could piece together the why.
Another perfectly written HEA written by Lynn Raye Harris. I just can’t get enough of her books. Now the wait begins for the next one.
I was blessed with an advanced copy with the understanding of an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2023
2.5⭐️
October 24, 2022
Beyond the fact this book has one of the hottest covers I've seen in a long time (whew!), it was a truly enjoyable, escapist read. I love the Black's Bandits series, and Dax Freed's story is a fabulous addition to the series.
It had a lot to like--the heroine's two charismatic pets, the heroine being stalked (I didn't even mind that she was a writer like me--and felt her issues and habits were portrayed realistically), a shy heroine, and a studly, caring hero.
Probably the only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because I suspected who the stalker was very early on, but don't let that dissuade you--I read and write a lot of these stories, and it's a hazard of the job to have certain characters jump out at me. Chances are you won't figure it out so quickly.
The best part of this story was how Dax got Robbie. He understood her shyness, hang-ups and emotional exhaustion--and he not only took care of her security, but he took care of her.
I also loved the brief appearances by other members of Black's Bandits. From the heroine fixing dinner for a couple of Dax's friends to a dinner party to help her prep for a public appearance to wanting to know more about Finn and Jamie!--that's always one of my favorite parts of Ms. Harris's stories--there's a badass team to get the job done, but they're also friends and family.
A really feel-good story!
It had a lot to like--the heroine's two charismatic pets, the heroine being stalked (I didn't even mind that she was a writer like me--and felt her issues and habits were portrayed realistically), a shy heroine, and a studly, caring hero.
Probably the only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because I suspected who the stalker was very early on, but don't let that dissuade you--I read and write a lot of these stories, and it's a hazard of the job to have certain characters jump out at me. Chances are you won't figure it out so quickly.
The best part of this story was how Dax got Robbie. He understood her shyness, hang-ups and emotional exhaustion--and he not only took care of her security, but he took care of her.
I also loved the brief appearances by other members of Black's Bandits. From the heroine fixing dinner for a couple of Dax's friends to a dinner party to help her prep for a public appearance to wanting to know more about Finn and Jamie!--that's always one of my favorite parts of Ms. Harris's stories--there's a badass team to get the job done, but they're also friends and family.
A really feel-good story!
September 30, 2022
Roberta "Robbie" Sharpe is a romance author who has caught a stalker. She has been through some emotional upheaval in the past few years, and it has affect her writing, but adding a new stalker into the mix changes a lot. Her publishing company has decided to take charge and make her hire an in-house bodyguard. A plan that Robbie is not thrilled with, but enter Dax Freed and Robbie things perhaps it won't be so bad after all. Dax himself is skeptical about this assignment because it requires him to act as a the boyfriend when the two of them are in public, and he isn't sure how he feels about that. However, when these two meet in person they connect on a level that they never expected. I am loving this series, the found family of the BDI team is a connection that I look for in a series.
One thing that really works in this book is the fact that these two truly work to pull each others best qualities from each other. There are no moments of trying to change the other, but rather bring out their inner strengths. These are two people who thrive together. If you haven't read any of the BDI series, you can read these out of order, but you don't want to miss out on any of these stories.
PoP: 67%
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
One thing that really works in this book is the fact that these two truly work to pull each others best qualities from each other. There are no moments of trying to change the other, but rather bring out their inner strengths. These are two people who thrive together. If you haven't read any of the BDI series, you can read these out of order, but you don't want to miss out on any of these stories.
PoP: 67%
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
September 30, 2022
Dax & Robbie
IMO, most guys reject romance novels as fluff and full of sex. They would rather avoid anything to do with romance writers, believing they are sex deprived and desperate. Dax gets his attitude changed after meeting Robbie and seeing what her life as a romance writer is really like. Her mail, experiences and everyday life show just how attached fans can get to their favorite authors. Her personality does not conform to his way of thinking she should be like, so Dax has his work cut out for him researching Robbie’s true self and seeing for himself how she is not being paranoid.
I love all the twists and turns surrounding Robbie, her writing and her love of animals. I also enjoy how calm and positive Dax is when he is with Robbie. Every day he helps her to deal with her social anxiety and with him there, she is able to better deal with those issues.
With all the details outlining Trent’s personality, I felt bad for Robbie’s experiences living with this selfish man. He appeared to be so insecure that he had to belittle Robbie in order to have control over her.
I found Dax and Robbie’s story to be so full of heart and compassion. Dax has the personality Robbie needs to move forward in her life without the fear of criticism for her dreams. Her paranormal romance hit a few nerves with her audience, but Robbie is the creator of her work and therefore, she is able to write what she feels. People just have to realize it’s “not just a book” for Robbie, but her thought process and internal awareness at that time helping her to decide which direction her characters are going to go at any given time.
I’m one to say that powerful stories can stick with a person for a long time, but criticizing an author’s work is a small action that can have a large impact and not a very nice thing to do if it’s done with malice. I love how Robbie is able to overcome her anxiety and have the push to write the next book in her series.
Love this story and can’t wait for more from this author.
IMO, most guys reject romance novels as fluff and full of sex. They would rather avoid anything to do with romance writers, believing they are sex deprived and desperate. Dax gets his attitude changed after meeting Robbie and seeing what her life as a romance writer is really like. Her mail, experiences and everyday life show just how attached fans can get to their favorite authors. Her personality does not conform to his way of thinking she should be like, so Dax has his work cut out for him researching Robbie’s true self and seeing for himself how she is not being paranoid.
I love all the twists and turns surrounding Robbie, her writing and her love of animals. I also enjoy how calm and positive Dax is when he is with Robbie. Every day he helps her to deal with her social anxiety and with him there, she is able to better deal with those issues.
With all the details outlining Trent’s personality, I felt bad for Robbie’s experiences living with this selfish man. He appeared to be so insecure that he had to belittle Robbie in order to have control over her.
I found Dax and Robbie’s story to be so full of heart and compassion. Dax has the personality Robbie needs to move forward in her life without the fear of criticism for her dreams. Her paranormal romance hit a few nerves with her audience, but Robbie is the creator of her work and therefore, she is able to write what she feels. People just have to realize it’s “not just a book” for Robbie, but her thought process and internal awareness at that time helping her to decide which direction her characters are going to go at any given time.
I’m one to say that powerful stories can stick with a person for a long time, but criticizing an author’s work is a small action that can have a large impact and not a very nice thing to do if it’s done with malice. I love how Robbie is able to overcome her anxiety and have the push to write the next book in her series.
Love this story and can’t wait for more from this author.
September 23, 2022
Black Velvet😍
Black Velvet is the next book in the Black Bandits series and is a MUST READ❣️ Dax is barely back from an assignment overseas when Ian assigns him to a well known author to protect her after she receives death threats. Dax is to pretend to be her boyfriend when she goes on a book tour but the chemistry between them as they get to know each other is explosive🧨 I have to admit I was most of the way through reading and I finally had a niggling idea of who could be the threat to Robbie…
luckily for me I was right but up to that point I had no idea🤷♀️
A wonderful story that makes one believe in HEAs and Heroes of the tall, dark and handsome variety and a love for the ages❤️ I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review and can’t wait to find out who’s up next😉
Black Velvet is the next book in the Black Bandits series and is a MUST READ❣️ Dax is barely back from an assignment overseas when Ian assigns him to a well known author to protect her after she receives death threats. Dax is to pretend to be her boyfriend when she goes on a book tour but the chemistry between them as they get to know each other is explosive🧨 I have to admit I was most of the way through reading and I finally had a niggling idea of who could be the threat to Robbie…
luckily for me I was right but up to that point I had no idea🤷♀️
A wonderful story that makes one believe in HEAs and Heroes of the tall, dark and handsome variety and a love for the ages❤️ I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review and can’t wait to find out who’s up next😉
October 17, 2022
***ARC Provided by the Author***
DNF at 29%
I was excited about this title, and I was looking forward to Dax and Roberta. I loved the idea of seeing an opposites attract story between a bodyguard and a romance novelist.
Unfortunately, what I didn't like was the romance novelist character. At all. I am not even totally sure what it was about her that I didn't like, but I wasn't able to connect with them as a couple and I chose not to finish this title.
DNF at 29%
I was excited about this title, and I was looking forward to Dax and Roberta. I loved the idea of seeing an opposites attract story between a bodyguard and a romance novelist.
Unfortunately, what I didn't like was the romance novelist character. At all. I am not even totally sure what it was about her that I didn't like, but I wasn't able to connect with them as a couple and I chose not to finish this title.
November 22, 2025
Boring book. It was the same thing over and over, Robbie not being able to write, trying to figure out who wanted to hurt her, taking care of her pets, etc. etc. It was around page 285, 85% into the book before anything actually happened. Then the only action was how long it took Dax to find Robbie and save her. The reader should be able to figure out the bad guy early as there were very few characters that had a relationship to Robbie, not counting Dax.
I did not like Robbie. She was a weak character. I like strong women as the main character. She definitely was not. She came across as a milk toast. Occasionally she would be a little assertive but not often.
As with the previous book I read in this series, there is no need to read books that come before the current book. The females tell all about what happened to them. They take all of the suspense out.
Everyone seems to enjoy this author's writing. I keep trying books in hopes of finding a book I like. I don't like the HOT series. All the characters in those books are either having sex or are thinking about having sex. Pretty much the same with her new Ghost series. The other book I read in this series was so so. As stated previously this book was boring. I think I am going to give up even trying to read Ms Harris' books.
I did not like Robbie. She was a weak character. I like strong women as the main character. She definitely was not. She came across as a milk toast. Occasionally she would be a little assertive but not often.
As with the previous book I read in this series, there is no need to read books that come before the current book. The females tell all about what happened to them. They take all of the suspense out.
Everyone seems to enjoy this author's writing. I keep trying books in hopes of finding a book I like. I don't like the HOT series. All the characters in those books are either having sex or are thinking about having sex. Pretty much the same with her new Ghost series. The other book I read in this series was so so. As stated previously this book was boring. I think I am going to give up even trying to read Ms Harris' books.
April 28, 2024
Honestly, of all her books (and I’ve read a LOT of her books), this is probably my least favorite.
Robbie and Dax had almost zero chemistry. I feel like they weren’t falling in love at all. The tension was nonexistent, the passion almost negligible and I feel like the book just dragged.
Also it was pretty easy to figure out who her stalker was at a certain point. And an explanation as to why the stalker chose to attack at that point never really came to fruition.
It was a slow burn, which is fine, except there wasn’t lot of burn.
The book was “meh” and best and I hope if she decides to write more in this series that they are more like the earlier books.
Robbie and Dax had almost zero chemistry. I feel like they weren’t falling in love at all. The tension was nonexistent, the passion almost negligible and I feel like the book just dragged.
Also it was pretty easy to figure out who her stalker was at a certain point. And an explanation as to why the stalker chose to attack at that point never really came to fruition.
It was a slow burn, which is fine, except there wasn’t lot of burn.
The book was “meh” and best and I hope if she decides to write more in this series that they are more like the earlier books.
November 21, 2025
This is probably my favorite of the series, even though it's nothing like any Ian Black operations in past series or even this one. This and the last couple books are really domestic bodyguard stories.
Just as an aside, I'm not sure what happened to Ian Black and his guys. In previous series they were almost mystical spies with amazing capabilities performing incredible acts of rescue or questionable shady government manipulation. This series is just former Special Forces/CIA/Marines now as personal security dudes. Plus everyone got very soft and caring, when before they were sharp eyed super dangerous guys focused solely on mission success. I'm disappointed that the series turned out to just be another group of security dudes protecting sister's friends and regular ladies in distress. I read them anyway even after the first book pointed in this entirely new direction because i thought they'd get better. But I digress.
As just your run-of-the-mill damsel in distress story, this one was good. I liked the leads and feel their characters were nicely defined. I particularly liked the FMC, a famous writer who is struggling with parasitic parents and an ex-husband, as well as a new stalker. She's pretty realistic as characters go. I've been lucky enough to know several gifted authors, and her character is right on. The MMC is of course a traffic-stopping gorgeous dude and a $ex god. He's stock in trade for books like this. Still, he's engaging even if typical.
However, there were a couple of things that were just too stupid to let pass. First is the standard 3/4 action/breakup/villain reveal. So after a shooting moments ago, the MMC decides it's OK to leave the FMC and intended target ALONE for a couple of hours while he sees about a fellow downed security person. Right. This gives the Bad Guy the chance to do their thing. Just really insulting to the reader, and frankly lazy writing. The other is the lack of real background work on every person close to the FMC. The same group able to detail pretty much to the second the whereabouts and all financial details of the ex-husband didn't seem capable of realizing the FMC's close assistant was using more than one name. Hmm. And she lived at the same address for her entire life so that info should have quite literally popped right up. Yup. Things like this interrupt the story flow.
This author probably isn't for me. A few books are really good, but most are template driven with female leads that are such victims that they're being pursued by multiple Bad Guys; there's lots of TSTL things happening; and the original thread of a series is generally lost two books in. I know this author has a devoted fan base, and that's great! I'm not yucking on their yum. It's just not for me.
Just as an aside, I'm not sure what happened to Ian Black and his guys. In previous series they were almost mystical spies with amazing capabilities performing incredible acts of rescue or questionable shady government manipulation. This series is just former Special Forces/CIA/Marines now as personal security dudes. Plus everyone got very soft and caring, when before they were sharp eyed super dangerous guys focused solely on mission success. I'm disappointed that the series turned out to just be another group of security dudes protecting sister's friends and regular ladies in distress. I read them anyway even after the first book pointed in this entirely new direction because i thought they'd get better. But I digress.
As just your run-of-the-mill damsel in distress story, this one was good. I liked the leads and feel their characters were nicely defined. I particularly liked the FMC, a famous writer who is struggling with parasitic parents and an ex-husband, as well as a new stalker. She's pretty realistic as characters go. I've been lucky enough to know several gifted authors, and her character is right on. The MMC is of course a traffic-stopping gorgeous dude and a $ex god. He's stock in trade for books like this. Still, he's engaging even if typical.
However, there were a couple of things that were just too stupid to let pass. First is the standard 3/4 action/breakup/villain reveal. So after a shooting moments ago, the MMC decides it's OK to leave the FMC and intended target ALONE for a couple of hours while he sees about a fellow downed security person. Right. This gives the Bad Guy the chance to do their thing. Just really insulting to the reader, and frankly lazy writing. The other is the lack of real background work on every person close to the FMC. The same group able to detail pretty much to the second the whereabouts and all financial details of the ex-husband didn't seem capable of realizing the FMC's close assistant was using more than one name. Hmm. And she lived at the same address for her entire life so that info should have quite literally popped right up. Yup. Things like this interrupt the story flow.
This author probably isn't for me. A few books are really good, but most are template driven with female leads that are such victims that they're being pursued by multiple Bad Guys; there's lots of TSTL things happening; and the original thread of a series is generally lost two books in. I know this author has a devoted fan base, and that's great! I'm not yucking on their yum. It's just not for me.
October 3, 2022
This is book 7 in the Black's Bandits series
Meet Dax and Roberta aka Robbie
Robbie now believes that she doesn’t believe in true heroes anymore. Only imaginary ones. Dax is out to prove that there are such things as true heroes, well he hopes and prays that he will make her change her mind.
Meet the ever so broody, dark haired BDI Mercenary Dax Freed.
Dax had never ever thought that he would be hired to be a fake boyfriend to an author who would prefer to hide herself away with only her company, well that's what he told himself. Knowing how hard it would be to keep his hands and dirty thoughts to himself while he spent time with her would be a living nightmare for him. Dax's ideal day/week/month for him would be out in the desert maybe shirtless or even naked would be more his thing. He preferred catching the bad guys. He lived on the adrenaline and thrill of the action and to rescue the innocent people in danger. However this time Ian didn't really give him much of a choice this time. Dax knew he'd have to stick it out. It would be hard and hoped that there wouldn't be any sexual attraction for them.
The ever reclusive Roberta Sharpe. Roberta or Robbie as she prefer's to be known, well she writes about hot, broody sexy heroes for a living. Robbie believes that those sorts of heroes exist in real life well she did until Dax turned up to protect her. Robbie fights with her editor and friend saying she doesn't need the protection from the former Army Ranger now BDI mercenary hero Dax, in which she believes that he could be on the covers of some of her books and model and be on the front covers of magazines. Dax won't take NO for an answer and is now staying in her guest room. This is what is either going to work or not. Robbie knows she needs to concentrate on herself rather than try to think about Dax in the room across from hers. Well this is going to really cause her problems. She's had her heartbroken once by her ex and wonders if Dax would or will do the same after his "mission to protect her" is over. The funny thing is no-one ever thought to ask her and never gave her the choice as to if she would want protection or not.
It all suddenly changes when someone breaks into her home leaves a dummy hanging in her tree and sending threatening notes. What both Dax and Robbie don't know that it's someone very close to Robbie, someone who Robbie trusted with her book signings and promos etc she was wrong....
Meet Dax and Roberta aka Robbie
Robbie now believes that she doesn’t believe in true heroes anymore. Only imaginary ones. Dax is out to prove that there are such things as true heroes, well he hopes and prays that he will make her change her mind.
Meet the ever so broody, dark haired BDI Mercenary Dax Freed.
Dax had never ever thought that he would be hired to be a fake boyfriend to an author who would prefer to hide herself away with only her company, well that's what he told himself. Knowing how hard it would be to keep his hands and dirty thoughts to himself while he spent time with her would be a living nightmare for him. Dax's ideal day/week/month for him would be out in the desert maybe shirtless or even naked would be more his thing. He preferred catching the bad guys. He lived on the adrenaline and thrill of the action and to rescue the innocent people in danger. However this time Ian didn't really give him much of a choice this time. Dax knew he'd have to stick it out. It would be hard and hoped that there wouldn't be any sexual attraction for them.
The ever reclusive Roberta Sharpe. Roberta or Robbie as she prefer's to be known, well she writes about hot, broody sexy heroes for a living. Robbie believes that those sorts of heroes exist in real life well she did until Dax turned up to protect her. Robbie fights with her editor and friend saying she doesn't need the protection from the former Army Ranger now BDI mercenary hero Dax, in which she believes that he could be on the covers of some of her books and model and be on the front covers of magazines. Dax won't take NO for an answer and is now staying in her guest room. This is what is either going to work or not. Robbie knows she needs to concentrate on herself rather than try to think about Dax in the room across from hers. Well this is going to really cause her problems. She's had her heartbroken once by her ex and wonders if Dax would or will do the same after his "mission to protect her" is over. The funny thing is no-one ever thought to ask her and never gave her the choice as to if she would want protection or not.
It all suddenly changes when someone breaks into her home leaves a dummy hanging in her tree and sending threatening notes. What both Dax and Robbie don't know that it's someone very close to Robbie, someone who Robbie trusted with her book signings and promos etc she was wrong....
July 20, 2025
Solid but not standout
Black Velvet, the latest in Lynn Raye Harris’s Black’s Bandits series, was a mixed bag. While the story delivers moments of sweetness and suspense, it doesn’t quite reach the emotional or narrative heights of Black Heart or Black Mail.
Roberta “Robbie” Sharpe, a woman nursing old wounds from a messy divorce, finds herself entangled in danger—and desire—when bodyguard Dax Freed enters her life. There’s chemistry between the two, but Robbie’s behavior left me conflicted. For the first half of the book, she’s strong and sharp-tongued. By the halfway mark, though, she morphs into a frustratingly timid FMC who entertains threats from her ex, over-shares personal trauma, and struggles to set boundaries. It’s hard to root for someone who keeps feeding emotional vampires while claiming she's done with them.
The timeline also felt fuzzy: Robbie’s bitterness lingers despite years apart from her ex, yet she appears emotionally detached from the past relationship. There’s confusion around when Trent remarried, and Robbie’s last intimate encounter. These contradictions weaken the emotional clarity of her arc. Add to that her sudden, off-page decision to trust Dax implicitly after minimal real bonding, and the romance felt rushed.
Dax is solid—protective, respectful, and emotionally grounded. And bonus points: he says “I love you” first, something I appreciated. The suspense plot was decent, though I guessed the villain early on. Still, it kept things moving. The spice level was dialed down compared to earlier installments, which might disappoint fans expecting the heat of Black Heart or Black Mail.
One letdown: Robbie proposes to Dax in the epilogue. I know, empowerment and agency and all that—but it felt anticlimactic. I prefer when the emotional payoff builds to a more organic romantic crescendo.
All in all, Black Velvet is okay. I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it, but expected more depth and cohesion. If you're already invested in the Black's Bandits world, it’s worth the read.
Black Velvet, the latest in Lynn Raye Harris’s Black’s Bandits series, was a mixed bag. While the story delivers moments of sweetness and suspense, it doesn’t quite reach the emotional or narrative heights of Black Heart or Black Mail.
Roberta “Robbie” Sharpe, a woman nursing old wounds from a messy divorce, finds herself entangled in danger—and desire—when bodyguard Dax Freed enters her life. There’s chemistry between the two, but Robbie’s behavior left me conflicted. For the first half of the book, she’s strong and sharp-tongued. By the halfway mark, though, she morphs into a frustratingly timid FMC who entertains threats from her ex, over-shares personal trauma, and struggles to set boundaries. It’s hard to root for someone who keeps feeding emotional vampires while claiming she's done with them.
The timeline also felt fuzzy: Robbie’s bitterness lingers despite years apart from her ex, yet she appears emotionally detached from the past relationship. There’s confusion around when Trent remarried, and Robbie’s last intimate encounter. These contradictions weaken the emotional clarity of her arc. Add to that her sudden, off-page decision to trust Dax implicitly after minimal real bonding, and the romance felt rushed.
Dax is solid—protective, respectful, and emotionally grounded. And bonus points: he says “I love you” first, something I appreciated. The suspense plot was decent, though I guessed the villain early on. Still, it kept things moving. The spice level was dialed down compared to earlier installments, which might disappoint fans expecting the heat of Black Heart or Black Mail.
One letdown: Robbie proposes to Dax in the epilogue. I know, empowerment and agency and all that—but it felt anticlimactic. I prefer when the emotional payoff builds to a more organic romantic crescendo.
All in all, Black Velvet is okay. I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it, but expected more depth and cohesion. If you're already invested in the Black's Bandits world, it’s worth the read.
September 21, 2022
*Disclaimer, I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
Beware of spoilers, especially at the end!
My god I’ve been so freaking excited for this book ever since it was announced! I seriously don’t know how Lynn does it, but every single book just gets better and better.
When Ian first told Dax to start reading romance books because he’d be protecting a romance author, I think I screamed I was so excited! Who doesn’t want to read a romance book about a romance author needing to be protected after being threatened? Exactly, I rest my case.
Every HOT and BDI guy is perfect and I stand by that, and Dax is no exception. As Robbie, Ian, Daphne and everyone else would say, he’s tall, dark and handsome (and a little nerdy with his computer skills). He’s so kind and caring and uplifting to Robbie. He can cook, play the piano, protect his woman, loves animals, and other physical activities ;).
And Robbie is so relatable with her insecurities. I think most people have either encountered or has/had someone in their life that tore them down constantly and made them doubt their self-worth. Even though Robbie has been through so much, she remained strong, and with some help from Dax, was able to become more confident and believe in herself. We love to see it.
I always love getting to see past characters and couples and I love the guaranteed get together of all the couples!
Not a lot of new updates, Libby and Jared are still planning their wedding as are Ty and Cassie. Some very exciting news is Romanov is in BDI (if ya know ya know!) and by the end of the book, Ian and Natasha finally have their baby! There’s also mention of a surprise proposal but it’s not named who, but it might be Finn and Jamie?
And even more exciting news!!! Shade’s book is officially coming! I don’t think there’s a release date yet but book 9 is his! And we all know Gem’s book is coming too! So many exciting books to look forward too (as usual)!
Beware of spoilers, especially at the end!
My god I’ve been so freaking excited for this book ever since it was announced! I seriously don’t know how Lynn does it, but every single book just gets better and better.
When Ian first told Dax to start reading romance books because he’d be protecting a romance author, I think I screamed I was so excited! Who doesn’t want to read a romance book about a romance author needing to be protected after being threatened? Exactly, I rest my case.
Every HOT and BDI guy is perfect and I stand by that, and Dax is no exception. As Robbie, Ian, Daphne and everyone else would say, he’s tall, dark and handsome (and a little nerdy with his computer skills). He’s so kind and caring and uplifting to Robbie. He can cook, play the piano, protect his woman, loves animals, and other physical activities ;).
And Robbie is so relatable with her insecurities. I think most people have either encountered or has/had someone in their life that tore them down constantly and made them doubt their self-worth. Even though Robbie has been through so much, she remained strong, and with some help from Dax, was able to become more confident and believe in herself. We love to see it.
I always love getting to see past characters and couples and I love the guaranteed get together of all the couples!
Not a lot of new updates, Libby and Jared are still planning their wedding as are Ty and Cassie. Some very exciting news is Romanov is in BDI (if ya know ya know!) and by the end of the book, Ian and Natasha finally have their baby! There’s also mention of a surprise proposal but it’s not named who, but it might be Finn and Jamie?
And even more exciting news!!! Shade’s book is officially coming! I don’t think there’s a release date yet but book 9 is his! And we all know Gem’s book is coming too! So many exciting books to look forward too (as usual)!
September 23, 2022
“Black Velvet” is action packed, steamy and suspenseful. Dax and Robbie’s story pulled me in from the beginning and I finished in just a few hours.
Robbie is a successful romance author and after her last book, fans were not happy. But when death threats start coming, her publisher hires her a tall, dark and handsome bodyguard. Dax is with BDI and moves into her home to protect and figure out who wants to hurt Robbie. But the sweet and shy author makes an impression on Dax and their chemistry starts to surface as they spend time together.
The suspense was turned up for this story and I loved it. Robbie is a keep to herself author after being cheated on by her husband so to think someone wants to hurt, especially after what happens in a book. Robbie is so sweet and the protective bubble she put herself in is so justifiable. And her as a romance author not believing in the possibility of love and a HEA is the cherry on top. Dax was another perfect man in the BDI world. Smart, strong, protective and caring. He might have been reluctant at first to take on another job but Robbie won him over quickly. Their chemistry was so good and the paced that they went at from strangers, to friends and then to lovers. Once they crossed that line, the vulnerability they both gave to each other was so sweet and perfect. We also check in with the rest of the crew and get some scenes with them. There some teasers on what the next book could be about and I can’t wait.
Robbie is a successful romance author and after her last book, fans were not happy. But when death threats start coming, her publisher hires her a tall, dark and handsome bodyguard. Dax is with BDI and moves into her home to protect and figure out who wants to hurt Robbie. But the sweet and shy author makes an impression on Dax and their chemistry starts to surface as they spend time together.
The suspense was turned up for this story and I loved it. Robbie is a keep to herself author after being cheated on by her husband so to think someone wants to hurt, especially after what happens in a book. Robbie is so sweet and the protective bubble she put herself in is so justifiable. And her as a romance author not believing in the possibility of love and a HEA is the cherry on top. Dax was another perfect man in the BDI world. Smart, strong, protective and caring. He might have been reluctant at first to take on another job but Robbie won him over quickly. Their chemistry was so good and the paced that they went at from strangers, to friends and then to lovers. Once they crossed that line, the vulnerability they both gave to each other was so sweet and perfect. We also check in with the rest of the crew and get some scenes with them. There some teasers on what the next book could be about and I can’t wait.
October 2, 2022
Another fantastic addition to the Black’s Bandits series! Dax is tall, dark and handsome the perfect man to step into the role of bodyguard/fake boyfriend for Roberta ‘Robbie’ Sharpe, romance writer.
I loved how these two characters gradually grow closer and lower their walls. Robbie had closed herself off from people as much as she could get away with since her cheating ex-husband left her for a younger woman, but when she starts to receive threats and threatening messages her publisher doesn’t give a choice other than to let Dax move-in to be her bodyguard.
Dax isn’t wild about his assignment, but his protectee intrigues him. He is extremely protective of her and keeps encouraging her to take steps further and further outside her comfort zone in preparation for a conference they are attending soon in Vegas.
The cookout at Brett and Tallie’s was fun to read. I love seeing these wonderful characters again whether in action or casual settings!
This story has suspense and intrigue surrounding the threats that Robbie receives. Identifying who might be potential suspects frustrates Dax and his team, as nothing seems to fit some of the initially obvious candidates. I always enjoy a bit of mystery and then finding out I was right or in some cases totally surprised.
I received a free ARC from the author and her publisher; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
I loved how these two characters gradually grow closer and lower their walls. Robbie had closed herself off from people as much as she could get away with since her cheating ex-husband left her for a younger woman, but when she starts to receive threats and threatening messages her publisher doesn’t give a choice other than to let Dax move-in to be her bodyguard.
Dax isn’t wild about his assignment, but his protectee intrigues him. He is extremely protective of her and keeps encouraging her to take steps further and further outside her comfort zone in preparation for a conference they are attending soon in Vegas.
The cookout at Brett and Tallie’s was fun to read. I love seeing these wonderful characters again whether in action or casual settings!
This story has suspense and intrigue surrounding the threats that Robbie receives. Identifying who might be potential suspects frustrates Dax and his team, as nothing seems to fit some of the initially obvious candidates. I always enjoy a bit of mystery and then finding out I was right or in some cases totally surprised.
I received a free ARC from the author and her publisher; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
September 21, 2022
Dax & Robbie
A romance writer who didn't believe in love. She had once. Until her husband cheated, divorced her, and more. Dax was just back from an assignment and not ready for this one. Fake boy/bodyguard for the romance writer being stalked and threatened. But, he never turned down a case. Little did he know just how much this one would mean.
She didn't trust men. He didn't get involved with clients. The battle to fight their feelings was on!
Neither knew anything about the other. The more they learned the harder it was to keep their emotional difference. She was shy and reserved. As he helped her experience people, including the people from his team, the more open she became. The threats didn't stop and made her forward progress halt. Would they find the stalker?
The stress was creating other problems. The characters are interesting and open or in the case of the unknown enemy, evil and dangerous. There is chemistry and steam. The intrigue keeps making you flip those pages. Will the team be able to find the stalker before she's more than emotionally scarred? Will she live long enough to find out if Dax is a man she can trust?
This does stand alone although other characters from previous books are active. Read and enjoy. I sure did.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
A romance writer who didn't believe in love. She had once. Until her husband cheated, divorced her, and more. Dax was just back from an assignment and not ready for this one. Fake boy/bodyguard for the romance writer being stalked and threatened. But, he never turned down a case. Little did he know just how much this one would mean.
She didn't trust men. He didn't get involved with clients. The battle to fight their feelings was on!
Neither knew anything about the other. The more they learned the harder it was to keep their emotional difference. She was shy and reserved. As he helped her experience people, including the people from his team, the more open she became. The threats didn't stop and made her forward progress halt. Would they find the stalker?
The stress was creating other problems. The characters are interesting and open or in the case of the unknown enemy, evil and dangerous. There is chemistry and steam. The intrigue keeps making you flip those pages. Will the team be able to find the stalker before she's more than emotionally scarred? Will she live long enough to find out if Dax is a man she can trust?
This does stand alone although other characters from previous books are active. Read and enjoy. I sure did.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
September 29, 2022
Another Winner! 5 big golden stars for Robbie & Dax!
Lynn turns out another winner in her Black's Bandit series with her latest release, Black Velvet. Romance author Robbie Sharpe, is getting threatening messages from a stalker. Her publisher contacts Ian Black's organization and orders a "tall dark and handsome" bodyguard. He sends Dax, Freed the hacker. (Except I got to tell you with the way the cover looks Dax doesn't look like my idea of a hacker for sure. )
Dax is quite taken with the shy, reclusive woman living alone in the Maryland countryside. Robbie has been hurt and betrayed by the people who are supposed to love her and life by this point is kind of beating her down. Dax steps in and becomes more to her than a bodyguard as he gives her moral support and something that she really hasn't had from the people around her before and that's understanding. He has this ability to let Robbie be Robbie and I love that.
There's plenty of bad guys to contend with. Her ex-husband returns and he's unstable and desperate. And then there is her stalker who is leaving threatening messages and doing other sneaky things. Will they find the stalker before it's too late?
I highly recommend this exciting story! I always loom forward for more from Lynn Raye Harris. She never disappoints.
Lynn turns out another winner in her Black's Bandit series with her latest release, Black Velvet. Romance author Robbie Sharpe, is getting threatening messages from a stalker. Her publisher contacts Ian Black's organization and orders a "tall dark and handsome" bodyguard. He sends Dax, Freed the hacker. (Except I got to tell you with the way the cover looks Dax doesn't look like my idea of a hacker for sure. )
Dax is quite taken with the shy, reclusive woman living alone in the Maryland countryside. Robbie has been hurt and betrayed by the people who are supposed to love her and life by this point is kind of beating her down. Dax steps in and becomes more to her than a bodyguard as he gives her moral support and something that she really hasn't had from the people around her before and that's understanding. He has this ability to let Robbie be Robbie and I love that.
There's plenty of bad guys to contend with. Her ex-husband returns and he's unstable and desperate. And then there is her stalker who is leaving threatening messages and doing other sneaky things. Will they find the stalker before it's too late?
I highly recommend this exciting story! I always loom forward for more from Lynn Raye Harris. She never disappoints.
September 25, 2022
Roberta aka Robbie is a romance writer and a serious introvert. Her husband left her for a younger woman, her fans are in an uproar about her last book, and someone broke in her home and left a gift. Her editor hires a bodyguard who is going to be staying with her and posing as her boyfriend. She has writer’s block and it will take a tall, dark, and handsome bodyguard to bring her out of it.
Dax was a military man and now works for BDI, a premier protection agency, and has been reading Robbie’s books to get him familiar with her. Robbie is not happy about what she thinks as an intrusion into her life. When the “ stalker “ ups the ante, Dax will do whatever it takes to keep Robbie safe.
Awesome story. Let me just say I can identify with Robbie. I’m not a people person and I’d rather stay home than go out. When I have to go out, my anxiety gets bad and sometimes it takes all I have to leave. The not looking in people in the eyes I do and was and am extremely shy. Mrs. Harris has made a character, that I understand, and was rooting for. Suspense. Sexual tension.
Also every since I started reading this that song BLACK VELVET is stuck in my head 😂😂😂😂.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for the author *
Dax was a military man and now works for BDI, a premier protection agency, and has been reading Robbie’s books to get him familiar with her. Robbie is not happy about what she thinks as an intrusion into her life. When the “ stalker “ ups the ante, Dax will do whatever it takes to keep Robbie safe.
Awesome story. Let me just say I can identify with Robbie. I’m not a people person and I’d rather stay home than go out. When I have to go out, my anxiety gets bad and sometimes it takes all I have to leave. The not looking in people in the eyes I do and was and am extremely shy. Mrs. Harris has made a character, that I understand, and was rooting for. Suspense. Sexual tension.
Also every since I started reading this that song BLACK VELVET is stuck in my head 😂😂😂😂.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for the author *
September 28, 2022
Robbie and I had a rough introduction. On one hand I felt for her. She was defeated and jaded and had become reclusive. I could identify with her introversion - people drain me and I overthink every action. I tried to feel for her given the situation but she was full on prickle bear from the start. I was initially frustrated with her attitude in regards to being reasonable about her personal safety. So. I was thinking it. Didn’t want to accept it. Dreaded it. Went into denial. Then it happened. Robbie saved the day by self-admitting… she was being a TSTL character. Huge sigh of relief for self awareness and funny the author basically broke the 4th wall! Once they gave in to their feelings Robbie comes alive. As always I love when all the characters from previous books come together for a scene or two. I'd love to eavesdrop on the ladies in their book group and hearing Natasha's opinion on Robbie breaking up her characters. ;)
This is one I’m going to reread again, probably before the next one (Jamie/Finn?). I find that with some books I think I have a different impression going in and I need time to reset. Just like some others I’ll like it more on a second and fresher read.
An advanced reader copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher with no expectations and in no way influences my review.
This is one I’m going to reread again, probably before the next one (Jamie/Finn?). I find that with some books I think I have a different impression going in and I need time to reset. Just like some others I’ll like it more on a second and fresher read.
An advanced reader copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher with no expectations and in no way influences my review.
September 27, 2022
Dax & Robbie are a perfect pairing - the romance writer who has fallen out of love with love and the rolling stone protector who thinks love's not for him.
Poor Robbie should have the world at her feet but all the success in the world means nothing when you've been dumped by your cheating ex, your last book has your more "fervent" fans baying for your blood and now you possibly have another stalker!
Dax wanted a rest from his last assignment but when Robbie finally caves to her publisher's demands for a bodyguard, he's off to save the day. He actually read her books in preparation and he thoroughly enjoyed them but he can see why her fans were thrown for a loop - the heroine chose the perfectly nice Doctor - why did she leave her true love and Vampire King???
Robbie is shy and awkward around people and Dax is never lonely in a room full of people. He has a plan to expose her to his friends and colleagues and prep her for her next book signing in Las Vegas. He's also investigating who is out to terrify her.
There are plenty of layers to the story with a horrible ex, stalkers, and vehement fans all wanting their piece of Robbie. Their chemistry is insanely hot and I loved the way Dax brought Robbie out of her shell.
Poor Robbie should have the world at her feet but all the success in the world means nothing when you've been dumped by your cheating ex, your last book has your more "fervent" fans baying for your blood and now you possibly have another stalker!
Dax wanted a rest from his last assignment but when Robbie finally caves to her publisher's demands for a bodyguard, he's off to save the day. He actually read her books in preparation and he thoroughly enjoyed them but he can see why her fans were thrown for a loop - the heroine chose the perfectly nice Doctor - why did she leave her true love and Vampire King???
Robbie is shy and awkward around people and Dax is never lonely in a room full of people. He has a plan to expose her to his friends and colleagues and prep her for her next book signing in Las Vegas. He's also investigating who is out to terrify her.
There are plenty of layers to the story with a horrible ex, stalkers, and vehement fans all wanting their piece of Robbie. Their chemistry is insanely hot and I loved the way Dax brought Robbie out of her shell.
September 27, 2022
Roberta (aka Robbie) is an author who had a stalker in her past. After writing a new book that her fans aren't happy about, it seems like that stalker has come out of retirement, and this is how she ends up with Dax in her house. She's an awkward girl whose parents, and ex-husband have always done their best to keep her down, so she rarely goes anywhere until she has to since people make her super anxious, and having Dax in her house isn't helping matters. He's not exactly happy to get assigned to this case, but since he's a single man of their company, he's the one who got tasked with protection since he's been asked to play pretend boyfriend especially since she has a book convention to attend. Little did these two people realize they would be just what the doctor ordered for the other as the sparks were flying, and it's not too long before they ignited. Of course when a person has a stalker, said stalker tends to keep escalating which is what's happening here. Obviously that means the twists are coming in hot as they race to figure out who that person is before it's too late. I LOVED every minute of this story, and I know you will as well after you hit those one click buttons as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
February 19, 2023
I listened to the audiobook of Black Velvet. I thought both narrators did a great job. I was fully engaged in the book from start to finish.
I can really appreciate the writing when characters fall and profess their love for each other, but you forget that it is technically instalove. Dax and Robbie had such great chemistry and were so in tune.
There was some action, danger, mystery and suspense to this story. I would have enjoyed more interaction with Trent having Robbie put him in his place. I found the identity of the stalker to be apparent early on in the book. The mystery became the reason for Robbie being stalked and what action the stalker was going to take against Robbie.
This is the first book in the series that I have completed. I have a couple of others that I realized are on my TBR/TBL list. Another good thing about this book was it could easily be read as a stand-alone. There were characters that had stories, but their stories did not detract from Dax and Robbie's. I will definitely be backtracking to start this series from the beginning. That is just me. I love to read a series in order.
This would have been a 5 star read, but the stalker was so obvious to me, it took away a bit of the mystery and suspense.
I can really appreciate the writing when characters fall and profess their love for each other, but you forget that it is technically instalove. Dax and Robbie had such great chemistry and were so in tune.
There was some action, danger, mystery and suspense to this story. I would have enjoyed more interaction with Trent having Robbie put him in his place. I found the identity of the stalker to be apparent early on in the book. The mystery became the reason for Robbie being stalked and what action the stalker was going to take against Robbie.
This is the first book in the series that I have completed. I have a couple of others that I realized are on my TBR/TBL list. Another good thing about this book was it could easily be read as a stand-alone. There were characters that had stories, but their stories did not detract from Dax and Robbie's. I will definitely be backtracking to start this series from the beginning. That is just me. I love to read a series in order.
This would have been a 5 star read, but the stalker was so obvious to me, it took away a bit of the mystery and suspense.
September 26, 2022
4.5 stars!
I’ve been a fan of this author’s HOT series books since 2013 for a good reason. Lynn Raye Harris consistently delivers characters with depth, bravery, loyalty, and heart, which still holds true with the Black’s Bandits series. Black Velvet is the 7th book in the series but is a stand-alone. You don’t have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but if you love to binge a good series, they are all well worth it, in my opinion.
Dax and Robbie’s story was a slow burn, slow buildup to some fairly intense action. While there are definitely steamy parts, I thought the plot and character development were well written to bring us to the crazy, heart-pounding climax. I can’t say the twist was a complete surprise, but the book was certainly hard to put down.
Romantic suspense, especially of the military variety, is my jam and this author is one of a few that are my true go-to when I’m in the mood for a story that will hook me from the very first page and keep me so intrigued I’m annoyed when real life intrudes. Looking forward to what she brings us next!
I’ve been a fan of this author’s HOT series books since 2013 for a good reason. Lynn Raye Harris consistently delivers characters with depth, bravery, loyalty, and heart, which still holds true with the Black’s Bandits series. Black Velvet is the 7th book in the series but is a stand-alone. You don’t have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but if you love to binge a good series, they are all well worth it, in my opinion.
Dax and Robbie’s story was a slow burn, slow buildup to some fairly intense action. While there are definitely steamy parts, I thought the plot and character development were well written to bring us to the crazy, heart-pounding climax. I can’t say the twist was a complete surprise, but the book was certainly hard to put down.
Romantic suspense, especially of the military variety, is my jam and this author is one of a few that are my true go-to when I’m in the mood for a story that will hook me from the very first page and keep me so intrigued I’m annoyed when real life intrudes. Looking forward to what she brings us next!
September 28, 2022
Tall, Dark and Handsome with a little side of nerdy!
This was an interesting book from the very beginning. Poor Dax is told to read the romance books by Roberta Sharpe as he is going to be her bodyguard and pretend boyfriend while they track down who is stalking her. You will fall in love with Dax right away, I mean, what’s not to love about this guy. He’s very thoughtful to Robbie and takes good care of her which is just what she needs after what she’s been through with her ex-husband. And let’s not forget that he is tall, dark and handsome! My first impression of Robbie was that here is a woman who’s been through hell with her ex, but she’s a fighter even if she doesn’t think she is. She managed to pick herself back up and keep moving forward with her life and her writing. It was sad to see that a romance writer doesn’t believe in romance or heroes anymore, but Dax quickly showed her that there is still heroes out there that will fight for the women that they love. This is another great story by Lynn and I can’t wait for the next one!
This was an interesting book from the very beginning. Poor Dax is told to read the romance books by Roberta Sharpe as he is going to be her bodyguard and pretend boyfriend while they track down who is stalking her. You will fall in love with Dax right away, I mean, what’s not to love about this guy. He’s very thoughtful to Robbie and takes good care of her which is just what she needs after what she’s been through with her ex-husband. And let’s not forget that he is tall, dark and handsome! My first impression of Robbie was that here is a woman who’s been through hell with her ex, but she’s a fighter even if she doesn’t think she is. She managed to pick herself back up and keep moving forward with her life and her writing. It was sad to see that a romance writer doesn’t believe in romance or heroes anymore, but Dax quickly showed her that there is still heroes out there that will fight for the women that they love. This is another great story by Lynn and I can’t wait for the next one!
September 25, 2022
Authors have one of the toughest jobs. They put hours, days, months into a book that we read in 3 or 4 days. Their creativity and hearts are critiqued and undervalued, hopefully there are more positive reviews than negative. Roberta Sharp is an author with vicious fans voicing their dislike of her last book. After receiving threats Dax works as her bodyguard, which leads exactly where you’d expect. Dax is the best hero: he’s honest, respectful, a team player and so darn sexy. How he pays attention to Roberta’s needs, not just in the bedroom for all the dirty minds, but in her social skills and business. The team members of BDI are incredible at their jobs and will do anything for their friends. The entire series can be read as standalone but there are cameos from many characters and it’s helpful to know their back story. I’m one of the lucky early readers, which is definitely a treat, so I’ve left my review voluntarily.
September 26, 2022
After the way that her marriage ended all Robbie wants to do is focus on her career as an author as she still believes in love however it is only when it comes to others and not herself. All she wants is to be alone but that is proving difficult when she finds herself with a sexy bodyguard that she doesn’t want and believes she doesn’t need.
Dax has been hired to keep Robbie safe and it is believed that pretending to be her boyfriend is the best way to be close to her without raising suspicion. He thought it would be just another job however what started as pretend is starting to feel very real however it isn’t long before he realizes that protecting her is more than a job as his heart and his future depend on finding out is behind the threats before they are successful.
Although Dax and Robbie weren’t looking for love it found them anyway as they take us on an intriguing and romantic journey that will keep you on edge.
Dax has been hired to keep Robbie safe and it is believed that pretending to be her boyfriend is the best way to be close to her without raising suspicion. He thought it would be just another job however what started as pretend is starting to feel very real however it isn’t long before he realizes that protecting her is more than a job as his heart and his future depend on finding out is behind the threats before they are successful.
Although Dax and Robbie weren’t looking for love it found them anyway as they take us on an intriguing and romantic journey that will keep you on edge.
September 29, 2022
Black Velvet is the seventh book in the Black's Bandits Series. Lynn Raye Harris has outdone herself with the fake boyfriend for the reclusive romance novelist situation in this marvelous story. Dax Freed is so good as the leading male character who would rather be doing anything else than protecting Roberta Sharpe, the writer. However, the story turns deadly because the danger is real. There is no one better to stand between that danger and Roberta than Dax.
This is a wonderful story full of action, suspense, romance and two characters who could be more perfect for each other if they could only see it. I was not sure how Ms. Harris would continue the series after Black Heart but has done so beautifully with Black Mail and now the can’t-stop-reading-it Black Velvet.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a wonderful story full of action, suspense, romance and two characters who could be more perfect for each other if they could only see it. I was not sure how Ms. Harris would continue the series after Black Heart but has done so beautifully with Black Mail and now the can’t-stop-reading-it Black Velvet.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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