Profile

by Jackie D.

Alex Derby is crass, bossy, and unrelenting. She’s lived in her father’s shadow during her tenure with the FBI, and she wants nothing more than to be free of it once and for all. She’s been sniffing around a case that seems to be connected to others and, if broken, could make her career—or maybe destroy it if the insider corruption she uncovers is divulged too soon. The clock is ticking, and each passing day leaves her caught in the cross hairs. The last thing she wants is to ask for help, but she’s running out of options.

Cassidy Wolf has made a name for herself within the FBI Behavior Analysis Unit. Her empathetic and level-headed nature makes her a poster child for recruitment brochures. She’s shocked when the beautiful and tenacious Alex Derby comes to her for help but finds it’s difficult to say no.

Life, death, and careers hang in the balance as Alex and Cassidy inch closer to the truth. Falling for each other is the last thing either of them needs. It could be what saves them or finishes them for good.

Genres: Crime, Thriller, Romance, LGBT, Lesbian

Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2022

About the author

Jackie D was born and raised in the San Francisco, east bay area of California. She lives with her wife, their son, and their many furry companions. She earned a bachelor's degree in recreation administration and a dual master's degree in management and public administration. She is a Navy veteran and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom as a flight deck director, onboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.

She spends her free time with her wife, friends, family, and their incredibly needy dogs. She enjoys playing golf but is resigned to the fact she would equally enjoy any sport where drinking beer is encouraged during gameplay. Her first book, Infiltration, was a finalist for a Lambda Literary Award. Her fourth book, Lucy's Chance, won a Goldie in 2018.

Jackie is also the co-host of the Podcast, The Weekly Wine Down - which can be found on iTunes, Stitcher, or Podbean.

Website and blog: http://www.jackied-author.com/

Reviews

[Della B · Rating 3 out of 5]

FBI Special Agent Alex Derby has spent the last two years pulling at a thread of a case of intrigue and treason during her off hours. It is now time to ask for help. Cassidy Wolf is a FBI behavioural profiler who offers to assist. I am keeping the story description vague to match the author’s synopsis. It will also add to the pleasure of discovery as you delve into the novel.

Although the plot of the story is not a new concept, it is refreshingly written by Jackie D. The intrigue is compelling with a cast of assorted characters who will entertain and yet I had no attachment to them. Alex is a no nonsense agent who jumped to some far reaching conclusions in her personal life just to add romantic angst to the story.

Profile is a fun read with very little investment from the reader and that is okay. Sometimes a book is just a book and a means to take you away from your reality.

I received a free advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[MZ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars. This political suspense was an easy enjoyable read that has an interesting premise. The plot is obviously the most important part of a suspense/crime story and it came up just a bit short for me to make this one of those books that kept me on the edge of my seat, but I still enjoyed reading it.

Alex and Cassidy both work at the FBI but have never worked together until Alex asks Cassidy for help on a case that she has been working on in secret for the last two years. Not long after, they uncover a conspiracy with big political implications and they don’t know who to trust anymore. The problem for me with the plot was that it was relatively vague and seemed to depend a lot on uncertain factors, so it didn’t feel very believable to me. However, there was enough action and deception to keep things entertaining.

Since the main storyline is the conspiracy, I’m OK with a lighter romance, but I have to say that this romance didn’t really work for me as it was extremely fast. They were proclaiming their love for each other before they even had a conversation with each other that was not work related. For those who’ve read the After Dark series they might be pleased to know that this book links into that series and that Brooke and Tyler make a re-appearance in this book. You can read this book without reading the series though. Another side character that I liked was Leo who was the funny distraction, while also be a mastermind hacker.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Ashlee · Rating 3 out of 5]

FBI agent Alex Derby needs help solving a mystery that could topple the US government if the perpetrators are not stopped. She brings in Cassidy Wolf, a behavioral analyst, to help her find those responsible for the plot. They both find themselves pulled towards each other as they work to solve the mystery before mayhem ensues.
This was an ok book for me, I felt like the whole political intrigue plot was a bit too complicated and vague. I liked Alex and Cassidy and felt like their chemistry was good. Leo was also pretty funny and a great addition to the book. It feels odd that the two MCs don't interact before the start of this book considering their relationships with Hunter and the insta love they seem to have after their initial meeting. I also didn't like the late stage relationship issue and felt like the behavior wasn't realistic for the character. Overall the plot was just a bit too vague in some spots and unbelievable in others. I've read other books by Jackie D in the past and enjoyed them but this one wasn't for me.

[Cherie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ This is a story about FBI agent Alex Darby and FBI agent Cassidy Wolf, who is a BAU profiler. Alex after two years of solitary investigation, discovers a conspiracy attempt to take down the US Government. Normally Alex is a very aloof loner but she decides to share her research with Cassidy. Cassidy is very outgoing, friendly and has just gotten a divorce from her ex husband. Together they recruit Cassidy’s ex husband, a computer hacker working for the CIA, and two female CIA agents to catch the people at the top of the conspiracy.

I enjoyed the plot and the action scenes in this book. And the romance between Alex and Cassidy was good. I would have liked more character development and more emotions described to get to know the characters better and what they were feeling. Also I needed more background in the characters.

ARC received from NetGalley for an honest and voluntary review.

[MaxDisaster · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stars
I had fun. Conspiracy and a romance between two investigators, who are attracted to each other, but unsure what to do about it...
Yup, can't complain.
Again, it was more " brainless action movie" genre than anything else, but I started it knowing that.
And I liked Tyler and Brooke from the author's previous books, so I was happy to see them again.

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around how I feel about this book.
I sort of liked the story, but it wasn’t thrilling enough at the same time.

The book starts in a way that feels like I missed something, like it’s a sequel of sorts. Which I don’t believe it is. It is (heavily) linked to the author’s After Dark series, but it isn’t officially part of it. I enjoyed the story, but as said I was missing a bit of the thrill. The romance between Cassidy and Alex seems forced and like it had to be there, for me I could have done without. It feels like such a forced storyline that had to be crammed in there that is also seemed to take away some quality of the crime storyline. While I enjoyed (parts) of the political crime story it all felt a little staccato. This might be a bit of a weird word to use, but it’s exactly how it feels, slightly disjointed and separated from everything, but still part of the same thing.

The premise of this book is nice and I think when you’ve read the After Dark series this book makes a little more sense and that helps with the enjoyment. The style isn’t necessarily one I enjoy, however when I look beyond that I can see why this could be a story that works.

*ARC received from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

[currentlyreadingbynat · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like Jackie D's books as they typically feature high risk, high reward storylines with badass female characters. This wasn't quite that, but I really enjoyed the political intrigue storyline, which kept me engaged throughout. It was also great seeing a few cameos from characters from Jackie D's After Dark series.

Alex and Cassidy are two great characters in their own right, however their romance was where this book fell short unfortunately. It was very quick to build, and Alex makes some interesting decisions about the relationship that seemed a bit too far-fetched. It was hard to connect with their romance as it just felt a bit too unrealistic.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Jo reece · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always ‘go in’ open-minded when I decided to read a book that is based on the government, corruption .and politics. But, the Profile wasn't ‘over the top’. I'd say it is a pretty light read with little angst. It's a good storyline, but the plot is nothing new and has been written before by other authors. If you're wanting something to pass the time, with a little bit of corruption then this would be for you.

I've given Profile a 3 out of 5

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75☆

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars. FBI agent Alex Derby has been trying to fit the pieces together for two years regarding a plot to rig the upcoming elections. With time running out she must trust a few others with what she has discovered. FBI Behavior Analyst Cassidy Wolf has the ease and charm with others that Alex lacks. Working together the two rely on trusted help to get the proof that they need to stop the plot.

This book can stand on its own but it includes cross over characters from the authors After Dark series. I like procedural investigations. This one goes a bit rogue (not always getting warrants) but the right people are helping. I did a small eye roll a at the plot involving changing voting machine votes. I don’t want to argue that possibility with anyone. But the basic, there is a big bad out there wanting to create chaos works. Of course things rely too much on the Leo the magical hacker. He also brings some comic relief.

The plot has a lot of action but I was surprisingly detached and I’m not sure why. I cared about the characters but the style of writing is matter of fact. I didn’t emotionally connect. I still enjoyed the story. And would read more if Alex and Cassidy catch another case.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Stokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting and entertaining read. Cassidy Wolf, talented behavioral analyst, FBI agent, called upon to help with a challenging case. Alex Derby, FBI agent working on a case under the radar. Alex in general is a loner working to solve cases on her own and also working to separate herself from her father's shadow. Cassidy's ex-husband Hunter is a positive addition to the story. He is also Alex's work partner. It is important to have folks on your "6" and they were there. Strong capable intelligent women with supportive families which is very cool and something I would like to see in more reads. In addition to Alex's partner Hunter, the other supporting characters, Brooke, Tyler and Leo are invaluable in their steady presence. Leo, what a cocky intelligent character with very much need tech skills. More depth about the main characters would have been good but in general, I enjoyed the read.

ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley

[Henriette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced political intrigue
This novel is set in the After-Dark-Universe (Infiltration, Pursuit, Elimination) and it is a stand-alone. I like a fast paced political thriller and this one does not disappoint but was not as compelling as the After Dark series which I herewith highly recommend. I liked the medley team coming from diverse backgrounds and I esp. enjoyed Leo and his wry humor and Cassidy‘s insights as a profiler. The conspiracy to be discovered was believable, but I was not quite convinced of the plot twists esp. in the second half. There is romance and a bit of romance-torture (i.e. one of the mc flagellating herself) - all in character and within the storyline. BTW I hate it when „female sensibilities“ are used as an excuse and advantage. Kudos for Brooke and Tyler being on board.

I received an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 stars rounded up)
‘Profile’ is the latest political, espionage thriller from Jackie D and there are plenty of nods to her previous novels for her fans which I loved but also a whole new storyline to be enthralled by.
This time around Alex Derby is a FBI agent who has always felt she has lived and worked under her father’s shadow so when she begins to pursue a more offbook investigation, she knows she will be at a bigger risk than most. Derby quickly realises that in a threat this big, she is going to need help and cue Cassidy Wolf; the beautiful and brilliant profiler from the FBI BAU.
I was completely hooked as the whole plotline feels so current and pulls from the drama that always underlies the American political landscape. I prefer thrillers that feel modern and plausible and for me Jackie D is a master at unpacking these sorts of themes in her work.
The chemistry between Alex and Cassidy was strong although I think the romance did take a little bit of a backseat during the more heightened tension of the thriller overall, but for me that wasn’t a negative because ‘Profile’ is not a stereotypical pure sapphic love story. One aspect I really liked was the fact you are thrown straight into the investigation and there is no hanging around or slow build up, I liked that Alex is already involved in the case before we meet her. Jackie D always writes strong, powerful women which are positioned perfectly within ‘Profile’ and a story perfectly woven with angst and drama that is so relevant to today’s political landscape.

[khi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting experience for me. On one hand, I absolutely loved the flow of the writing. On the other, I could not commit myself to read this book at times and when I did read it, there was a sudden wave of absent-mindedness that took over every time I really got into it.

Alex is an FBI agent sitting on what could possibly be a monumental case and this book follows her adventure of cracking it. Along for that ride is Cassidy, a charming profiler.

Immediately upon meeting, these two have great chemistry. Yet again, that problem arose where even though I loved the writing and that chemistry, I could not find myself ecstatically interested in it. This book has been sitting in my library for almost two months. That's not usual for me.

Alex also lost her initial character traits as the book goes on. In the early chapters she seems reserved, a bit quirky, and overall a refreshing character but as the book goes on she becomes almost generic.

The book itself did have some entertaining moments. The whole political corruption plot did not necessarily land well with me. It just seemed a bit boring.

I saw another review saying that it was not thrilling enough, perhaps that's true. Though, I feel like it's more than that. I may be totally off base but I just feel like this book lacked a certain amount of passion.

So it's really up to you if you wanna read it.

ARC from NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an honest review.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Derby is an FBI agent who has lived under her father's shadow in the agency during her entire tenure. She has been looking into a case that could make of break her career. Now, she is running out of time and decides to do the unthinkable and trust the poster child of the FBI. Cassidy Wolf is a behaviour analyst, one of the best. Her looks and personality make her liked and approachable to everyone. However, Cassidy never expected to be approached by Alex, much less to ask for her help.
As they get closer to the truth it becomes more dangerous and they become closer that either of them planned.

This book was an incredibly pleasant surprise. I was hooked from the very beginning.

The chemistry between Alex and Cassidy was so well developed, it was well written and it felt very genuine. I really enjoyed reading their scenes together and thought they added to the tension of the book. The plot was very entertaining and it really made me just keep flipping pages to find out what would happen.
Ill definitely be reading this again in the future.

I received this ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As if ripped from the headlines..." It sounds like an old saying, but for this book it's chillingly true. If what Jackie D. describes in this story is true, we'd all better take care of ourselves and each other. This is one of those "it could really happen" books and you don't have to know a lot about current events to know that this story could really happen.

Fortunately, there are some compelling heroes here who are equipped to handle the bad guys. Cassidy is a profiler and Alex is an FBI Special Agent. With their formidable friends Tyler and Brooke, and all the available tech in the world, they have to stop the nefarious plot of the world's wealthiest man, along with a higher-up in the FBI and two sinister politicians, to take over the world. It sounds like a fantasy, but this is written so perfectly that you will believe it could happen.

Pay attention to Jackie D. She has been on the periphery of my vision for a year or so, and after reading this book, she is smack in the middle of it now.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this and I do like the characters and worlds that Jackie D creates but I just didn’t love it. I think it’s partly because of the tense she writes in which keeps me slightly at a distance? I’m not sure…

Alex and Cassidy are FBI agents who are trying to thwart a conspiracy to interfere with the Presidential election. It is a complex plot and the author handles the pacing and the disclosures very well. I found the relationship building between Alex and Cassidy a little false but there are credible glimpses into the chaos of not knowing who to trust. There are excellent subsidiary characters from the author’s other books and some clever dialogue.

The book is well written and Ms D sure can tell a story. I’ll be looking out for her next book.

I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley

[Silvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

FBI Agent Alex Derby has been following a lead for the last 2 years and she’s kept the circle of people who are aware very small. It includes a couple from the author’s other series ( this book can be read as a standalone) and a hacker. Alex’s circle of friends is almost non existent, it contains her fellow FBI agent Hunter. Enter Hunter’s ex-wife and FBI behavioural analyst Cassidy, who makes it to the top of the trusted people almost instantly. I like a good investigation and this was pretty decent. The romance went against the procedural investigative nature of the book at times. I can’t say I read this with waited breath but it was a decent read and I would pick up the next Alex and Cassidy case if the author decides to make this a series. 3.5 stars
Free ARC via NetGalley

[Alicia Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

title: Profile

Author: Jackie D.

NetGalley

Arc

This was an exciting book about the FBI. The relationship between the two main characters was exciting.  As far as the romance is concerned, it was an instant attraction between them.

Alex and Cassidy make an unlikely pair, but they have the potential to be a powerful team. Alex's tenacity and Cassidy's level-headedness could be the perfect combination to crack the case and make Alex's career. But the clock is ticking, and they must work together quickly if they want to succeed.

They book is definitely different from anything I would usually read, it is involved in the FBI politics and cops.


that dollar for the opportunity to read this book. 3 stars

[Sloan Stryker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story revolves around two FBI agents, Alex and Cassidy. Alex has been working and gathering evidence on a case that could blow up a big political corruption ring or blow up in her face. She finally has asked for help and things are heating up quickly putting them all in grave danger.
A few trusted colleagues and one hacker round out the team.
This story seems to come to head faster than possible and the plot very plausible in today's political tsunami of lies.
I do like enjoy reading about strong women in law enforcement but not this story line.

Thank you #netgalley #BoldStrokesBooks for this ARC

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast paced, political thriller about a group of queer women who are going to save democracy in America. I liked Alex being shown to have strong friendships and relationships with her family. I enjoyed Cassidy's intelligence especially her emotional smarts that make her a good profiler, it was refreshing to have some psychology in amongst the law enforcement tropes. Really enjoyed this book, an engaging thriller that's light enough for the holidays.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was expecting a fanfic-esque ode to "Criminal Minds". (Emily x Tara, anyone?) I wanted some actual profiling of the bad guys, but this is more of a thriller, action book (with heavy doses of romance).
It was almost a DNF. It's too light. Too light on everything. I felt like it also suffers from a case of "telling not showing" I'd be immersed in a scene, enjoying the dialog when I'd suddenly feel yanked out due to some explanation or another.
I liked the cast of characters though.
#Profile #NetGalley

[Aly Franco · Rating 4 out of 5]

the case of the rigged election and the tech billionaire behind it all hits a little too close to home right now lol though, it was nice to see Alex figure out the puzzle and try to do something about it (wish the real world could say the same🫠). The team of badass ladies recruited were all awesome. Years of watching Criminal Minds made Cassidy's profiling and Leo's hacking moments some of my favorites☺️ Alex and Cassidy are cute af in their mutual yearning and every other way🌶️🌶️

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting start. And that was before I got to the main plot. As someone not from the US, I was initially worried I would get a bit lost in the nuances of a different political system, but the writer very quickly made me realise depth wasn’t required and I was hugely invested in the outcome of the secondary plot, the intriguey bit, as well as the romance. And I am here for both plot strands.
The plot, a few years ago, I would have said was too fantastical. Now it is unfortunately believable. I found the writing taut and sparing in some cases. Some points a bit too sparse. I still don’t quite buy in to Alex leaving the room as easily as she did, however the action moved pretty swiftly on and I didn’t dwell.
I have no experience of US law enforcement, or actually any law enforcement and no knowledge of black ops but I enjoyed this book and it certainly held my attention throughout. A strong 3 star recommendation.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

there was nice balance in this book between the crime/thriller side of things and the romance, however i wish there was a bit more action as for a book about a political plot there was a lot of hacking and hiding out in houses.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

onwijs goed boek!!!

[Patricia Vander Kamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful with a perfect ending!!!

Beautifully written story of Alex and Cassidy’s journey to themselves and each other. I could not put this down. It is riveting. A very good read. I didn’t want it to end. I heartily and enthusiastically recommend this and any other works by Jackie D. Thank you Peace

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

timely read

This is the first book I have read of Jackie D. I enjoyed the characters and pacing of the book. It wasn’t too far out of todays mainstream US political and corporate worlds. The immediate attraction between Cassidy & Alex maybe could have been drawn out a little longer but honestly that is the only complaint. I will be reading more from this author!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

timely thriller

I quite enjoyed this thriller. The main and secondary characters were all well written. The plot was a page-turner. I hate the fact that the story is all too believable. Would have loved more romance but the nature of a thriller rather precludes that. Would really enjoy another tale with these characters.

[Frances Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it

At first I didn't wanna purchase the book but then I decided to and I'm glad that I did great story and it actually had me laughing at times I love the characters and Leo cracks me up I recommend this book