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Dying to Please
Loyal. Beautiful. Professional. Impeccably organized. Potentially lethal. Sarah Stevens is a woman with many distinct qualities. First and foremost a butler par excellence, skilled at running large households smoothly and efficiently, she is also a trained bodyguard and expert marksman–indispensable to her elderly employer, a courtly gentleman whom Sarah has come to respect and love as a father.
Then one night she thwarts a burglary in progress, a courageous act that rewards Sarah her requisite “fifteen minutes of fame” with the local press. But the exposure is enough to catch the attention of a tortured soul who, unbeknownst to Sarah, will stop at nothing to have her for himself.
Sarah’s perfectly ordered life is shattered when tragedy her beloved employer is brutally murdered. The detective investigating the case, assures Sarah that she is not a suspect. Until lightning strikes twice. There’s a second killing–and this time, despite a lack of evidence connecting her to the crime, Sarah cannot escape the shadow of guilt.
The only option left for Sarah is to carry on with her life. But she doesn’t realize that a deranged stalker is luring her into an elaborate trap . . . one in which she, once ensnared, might never escape. For Sarah soon finds herself at the mercy of a man who will tend to her every whim, smother her with affection, and crush her in his all-consuming embrace.
In a nonstop roller-coaster ride of unrelenting suspense, Linda Howard has written her most chilling novel yet. Dying to Please is a breathless thriller of desire and obsession.
Then one night she thwarts a burglary in progress, a courageous act that rewards Sarah her requisite “fifteen minutes of fame” with the local press. But the exposure is enough to catch the attention of a tortured soul who, unbeknownst to Sarah, will stop at nothing to have her for himself.
Sarah’s perfectly ordered life is shattered when tragedy her beloved employer is brutally murdered. The detective investigating the case, assures Sarah that she is not a suspect. Until lightning strikes twice. There’s a second killing–and this time, despite a lack of evidence connecting her to the crime, Sarah cannot escape the shadow of guilt.
The only option left for Sarah is to carry on with her life. But she doesn’t realize that a deranged stalker is luring her into an elaborate trap . . . one in which she, once ensnared, might never escape. For Sarah soon finds herself at the mercy of a man who will tend to her every whim, smother her with affection, and crush her in his all-consuming embrace.
In a nonstop roller-coaster ride of unrelenting suspense, Linda Howard has written her most chilling novel yet. Dying to Please is a breathless thriller of desire and obsession.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 29, 2002
536 people are currently reading
4006 people want to read
About the author
Linda Howard
223 books7,169 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Linda S. Howington is an American best-selling romance author writing under the pseudonym Linda Howard. After 21 years of penning stories for her own enjoyment, she submitted a novel for publication which was very successful. Her first work was published by Silhouette in 1982. She is a charter member of Romance Writers of America and in 2005 Howard was awarded their Career Achievement Award.
Linda Howard lives in Gadsden, Alabama with her husband, Gary F. Howington, and two golden retrievers. She has three grown stepchildren and three grandchildren.
Linda S. Howington is an American best-selling romance author writing under the pseudonym Linda Howard. After 21 years of penning stories for her own enjoyment, she submitted a novel for publication which was very successful. Her first work was published by Silhouette in 1982. She is a charter member of Romance Writers of America and in 2005 Howard was awarded their Career Achievement Award.
Linda Howard lives in Gadsden, Alabama with her husband, Gary F. Howington, and two golden retrievers. She has three grown stepchildren and three grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
February 11, 2019
3 Stars
The hero was meh. The heroine was okay, I guess.
Their romance was meh.
The suspense wasn't that suspenseful and the mystery was predictable.
But it's still an okay read and I can’t rate it lower than 3 stars. When I compare it to my other 3-star reads on my shelves, this one is much better.
The hero was meh. The heroine was okay, I guess.
Their romance was meh.
The suspense wasn't that suspenseful and the mystery was predictable.
But it's still an okay read and I can’t rate it lower than 3 stars. When I compare it to my other 3-star reads on my shelves, this one is much better.
December 27, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️ three stars -
Three stars for this 2002 standalone book from Linda Howard. This book is nowhere near my favorite Howard, but it’s not the least, either. It falls flatly somewhere in the middle for me.
Why the three stars? What kept it from being a stand stellar four-star Howard read for me? Let’s count up the ways this one fell short…
1. This book is shockingly raunchy for Howard. If you follow my reviews, you are most likely aware that I often read dark romance, so I’m not in any way knocking the edgy smut here, but it’s just surprisingly glaring coming from a Howard read. Shocking in its unexpected presence on the page; I was taken aback at the Hero’s thoughts and how blatantly sexual they were. I didn’t find it sexy, it made me start not to like him, but more on that later.
2. Speaking of the out of place raunchiness (for a Howard novel), how about the naked wresting scene? 😳 Yes, you read that right - naked wrestling. I actually laughed out loud at this cheesiness. Then when his penis accidentally slips - 😂 dead. So outrageous, I’m not sure we needed this scene 😂 It did morph into a hot sex scene, but again, that scene was also uncharacteristically sexy (hint: a tad kinky) for this author, it mostly struck me as odd, rather than sexy 💁♀️
3. In Howard’s defense, she did come up with a unique read, and that is what intrigued me enough to pick this book up to begin with. The unusual fact that our heroine here is a butler was an interesting diversion from the romance norm. I did enjoy that aspect. However, the fact that she was a butler bodyguard was a bit of a stretch. Based upon the h’s body description, I didn’t quite buy the bodyguard characteristic; just a bit over-the-top for me.
4. I also didn’t feel as if the character arcs were as well drawn as they normally are in her better books. I had a few moments where I was confused as to why our heroine never reached out to her family, when in the beginning of the story she was portrayed as being very close to her siblings. I kept expecting one of her brothers to make an appearance on page, but after they were introduced, that was their last mention. Howard did throw in a phone call with the heroine and her mother in one of the last chapters, but this came across as an afterthought add-on that was only thrown in there for continuity, as it really added nothing to the story, other then letting Howard tie up the loose end of the character arc 💁♀️
5. I really did not care for the Hero here. All the raunchiness drew his character as someone just a little too rough around the edges for me. I like my men a bit more sophisticated than he appeared, and a bit more intelligent. A real disappointment, as Howard’s alpha males are normally just my thing, but not the Hero here. Sorry, Cahill.
6. Our Hero also helps this book get shelved to my “don’t like the Hero here” shelf with his unbelievable, very unfortunate, and highly unromantic action toward our poor heroine. His act of personal betrayal (note: this action is not a romantic action - i.e. not cheating) would have been unforgivable for me. She just took him back, no questions, and slept with him the same day; just gave him a pass. An act like this deserves grovel in a romance. We don’t get that here, so there’s the loss of a star for the underdeveloped romance 💔☹️
7. Finally, the crime drama here is more drama, rather than suspense. Howard can really write masterful romantic suspense, but this book just doesn’t deliver that. There’s a competent drama here, with a side of murder, but that’s it.
There you have it. Those are my reasons why this isn’t the best Howard I’ve read (that honor goes to her “After The Night”, and you can read my review of that outstanding five star Howard read here 👉 https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...).
I’m rating this a mediocre crime drama, with some raunchy dialogue and sex scenes thrown in. Do not particularly recommend. Especially not if you’re looking for another romantic suspense, because I don’t feel that this one qualifies.
Three stars, because it’s Howard 💁♀️📚📖
Three stars for this 2002 standalone book from Linda Howard. This book is nowhere near my favorite Howard, but it’s not the least, either. It falls flatly somewhere in the middle for me.
Why the three stars? What kept it from being a stand stellar four-star Howard read for me? Let’s count up the ways this one fell short…
1. This book is shockingly raunchy for Howard. If you follow my reviews, you are most likely aware that I often read dark romance, so I’m not in any way knocking the edgy smut here, but it’s just surprisingly glaring coming from a Howard read. Shocking in its unexpected presence on the page; I was taken aback at the Hero’s thoughts and how blatantly sexual they were. I didn’t find it sexy, it made me start not to like him, but more on that later.
2. Speaking of the out of place raunchiness (for a Howard novel), how about the naked wresting scene? 😳 Yes, you read that right - naked wrestling. I actually laughed out loud at this cheesiness. Then when his penis accidentally slips - 😂 dead. So outrageous, I’m not sure we needed this scene 😂 It did morph into a hot sex scene, but again, that scene was also uncharacteristically sexy (hint: a tad kinky) for this author, it mostly struck me as odd, rather than sexy 💁♀️
3. In Howard’s defense, she did come up with a unique read, and that is what intrigued me enough to pick this book up to begin with. The unusual fact that our heroine here is a butler was an interesting diversion from the romance norm. I did enjoy that aspect. However, the fact that she was a butler bodyguard was a bit of a stretch. Based upon the h’s body description, I didn’t quite buy the bodyguard characteristic; just a bit over-the-top for me.
4. I also didn’t feel as if the character arcs were as well drawn as they normally are in her better books. I had a few moments where I was confused as to why our heroine never reached out to her family, when in the beginning of the story she was portrayed as being very close to her siblings. I kept expecting one of her brothers to make an appearance on page, but after they were introduced, that was their last mention. Howard did throw in a phone call with the heroine and her mother in one of the last chapters, but this came across as an afterthought add-on that was only thrown in there for continuity, as it really added nothing to the story, other then letting Howard tie up the loose end of the character arc 💁♀️
5. I really did not care for the Hero here. All the raunchiness drew his character as someone just a little too rough around the edges for me. I like my men a bit more sophisticated than he appeared, and a bit more intelligent. A real disappointment, as Howard’s alpha males are normally just my thing, but not the Hero here. Sorry, Cahill.
6. Our Hero also helps this book get shelved to my “don’t like the Hero here” shelf with his unbelievable, very unfortunate, and highly unromantic action toward our poor heroine. His act of personal betrayal (note: this action is not a romantic action - i.e. not cheating) would have been unforgivable for me. She just took him back, no questions, and slept with him the same day; just gave him a pass. An act like this deserves grovel in a romance. We don’t get that here, so there’s the loss of a star for the underdeveloped romance 💔☹️
7. Finally, the crime drama here is more drama, rather than suspense. Howard can really write masterful romantic suspense, but this book just doesn’t deliver that. There’s a competent drama here, with a side of murder, but that’s it.
There you have it. Those are my reasons why this isn’t the best Howard I’ve read (that honor goes to her “After The Night”, and you can read my review of that outstanding five star Howard read here 👉 https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...).
I’m rating this a mediocre crime drama, with some raunchy dialogue and sex scenes thrown in. Do not particularly recommend. Especially not if you’re looking for another romantic suspense, because I don’t feel that this one qualifies.
Three stars, because it’s Howard 💁♀️📚📖
February 25, 2019
Audio book.
Review
This one stands out for the female butler and the nude wrestling aka foreplay scene between the H and the h.
The h has a stalker who is an OTT condescending inner monologuing serial killer who drones on about how unworthy everyone but him is for the h. Dead bodies pile up, and the Alabama detectives don't come off looking too good as they ignore a couple of blaring pieces of evidence.
The h starts out this kick-ass heroine, and she and the H have a hot affair. The H is a little more cliche as he is a hunky, divorced and cynical detective who is head over heels but still has to be a Stone Age idiot. She loses some spine and fortitude when she caves after his pigheaded jackassery. Poor girl, I guess that's what happens when you find three dead bodies in less than three weeks. He does his idiot betrayal routine then woos her back into forgiveness by seducing her. It's actually a little more crude than that, but at least she gives him some dirty looks and makes him sweat a little.
Narration
The story is set in Alabama, and the narrator does and excellent job with her accents.
Review
This one stands out for the female butler and the nude wrestling aka foreplay scene between the H and the h.
The h has a stalker who is an OTT condescending inner monologuing serial killer who drones on about how unworthy everyone but him is for the h. Dead bodies pile up, and the Alabama detectives don't come off looking too good as they ignore a couple of blaring pieces of evidence.
The h starts out this kick-ass heroine, and she and the H have a hot affair. The H is a little more cliche as he is a hunky, divorced and cynical detective who is head over heels but still has to be a Stone Age idiot. She loses some spine and fortitude when she caves after his pigheaded jackassery. Poor girl, I guess that's what happens when you find three dead bodies in less than three weeks. He does his idiot betrayal routine then woos her back into forgiveness by seducing her. It's actually a little more crude than that, but at least she gives him some dirty looks and makes him sweat a little.
Narration
The story is set in Alabama, and the narrator does and excellent job with her accents.
February 9, 2016
★★★½☆ Okay, I finished the book late this morning. I have a hard time rating it, because a three-star LH is much better than a three-star book written by someone else.
The hero, Tom Cahill, thinking the heroine, Sarah Stevens,
Still, I really enjoyed the story and gobbled it down in one bite, so I'd have to give it props for holding my attention.
The hero, Tom Cahill, thinking the heroine, Sarah Stevens,
Still, I really enjoyed the story and gobbled it down in one bite, so I'd have to give it props for holding my attention.
August 25, 2008
Why hire someone to do the dirty work…
Sarah Stevens had been hired by the insistance of retired federal judge, Lowell Roberts. A kind man who’d received threats a few years back, the family, especially the daughter, didn’t want the judge living alone. Sarah is a female butler, hired to watch and guard him. Sarah takes care of everything, from the mundane daily living to the higher stuff like parties. She also guards him; drives him wherever he needs to go, watches his back. When two men break into the house intent on burglarizing the judge’s home, they are thwarted by Sarah, who calls it in.
In comes detective Thompson Cahill. Cahill had heard of the bumbled burglary and was curious enough to go to the house, mainly because of the 9-1-1 call. He was intrigued. Upon meeting Sarah, he instantly knew that Sarah was more than just a butler.
An attraction forms between them right from the get-go - purely physical at first. But soon both can’t get the other out of their heads. However, Sarah has attracted unwanted attention - a certain man thinks that Sarah is wasting her time taking care of the judge. She’s perfect, and he accepts nothing less than perfection. Sarah should be his.
While Sarah is out on her day off, the judge is murdered while sitting in his recliner. Guilt assaults her - had she been there, it wouldn’t have happened. Of course Sarah becomes the prime suspect, much to Cahill’s chagrin. But eventually they rule her out, and Cahill, a year after a particularly nasty divorce, decides to go after Sarah, without subtlety.
Sarah eventually takes on another job, just for both of bosses to be murdered in their house while Sarah is with Cahill. Again, she’s brought in for questioning, as a time gap between Cahill and Sarah becomes evident. Eventually, she is ruled out again, and is extremely hurt by Cahill’s treatment of her. Tired and upset, Sarah ends up taking on another job - with the man who wanted her since the beginning, unbeknownst to Sarah. Things move quickly when she realizes that she is now the possession of a deranged man, and Cahill will stop at nothing to get her out.
I loved the connection between Cahill and Sarah right from the start. Sparks for sure, and the banter between them reminded me so much of my husband and myself. Sex scenes erotic. The suspense and mystery were great, the ending twisted. What brought me to tears is what Sarah endures after the judge is murdered. Her actions, her feelings, reminded me of when my grandfather passed away, and I could feel her anguish. There was such feeling in this novel and I identified with so much. I couldn’t have asked for better!
Sarah Stevens had been hired by the insistance of retired federal judge, Lowell Roberts. A kind man who’d received threats a few years back, the family, especially the daughter, didn’t want the judge living alone. Sarah is a female butler, hired to watch and guard him. Sarah takes care of everything, from the mundane daily living to the higher stuff like parties. She also guards him; drives him wherever he needs to go, watches his back. When two men break into the house intent on burglarizing the judge’s home, they are thwarted by Sarah, who calls it in.
In comes detective Thompson Cahill. Cahill had heard of the bumbled burglary and was curious enough to go to the house, mainly because of the 9-1-1 call. He was intrigued. Upon meeting Sarah, he instantly knew that Sarah was more than just a butler.
An attraction forms between them right from the get-go - purely physical at first. But soon both can’t get the other out of their heads. However, Sarah has attracted unwanted attention - a certain man thinks that Sarah is wasting her time taking care of the judge. She’s perfect, and he accepts nothing less than perfection. Sarah should be his.
While Sarah is out on her day off, the judge is murdered while sitting in his recliner. Guilt assaults her - had she been there, it wouldn’t have happened. Of course Sarah becomes the prime suspect, much to Cahill’s chagrin. But eventually they rule her out, and Cahill, a year after a particularly nasty divorce, decides to go after Sarah, without subtlety.
Sarah eventually takes on another job, just for both of bosses to be murdered in their house while Sarah is with Cahill. Again, she’s brought in for questioning, as a time gap between Cahill and Sarah becomes evident. Eventually, she is ruled out again, and is extremely hurt by Cahill’s treatment of her. Tired and upset, Sarah ends up taking on another job - with the man who wanted her since the beginning, unbeknownst to Sarah. Things move quickly when she realizes that she is now the possession of a deranged man, and Cahill will stop at nothing to get her out.
I loved the connection between Cahill and Sarah right from the start. Sparks for sure, and the banter between them reminded me so much of my husband and myself. Sex scenes erotic. The suspense and mystery were great, the ending twisted. What brought me to tears is what Sarah endures after the judge is murdered. Her actions, her feelings, reminded me of when my grandfather passed away, and I could feel her anguish. There was such feeling in this novel and I identified with so much. I couldn’t have asked for better!
October 13, 2016
This was classic Linda Howard and I started reading and didn't want to put down. I liked the plot, the characters and the pace. Our H, Sarah, annoyed me a little with the keeping her cell phone in her SUV versus with her at night. It just seemed weird and out of character - which all means it seemed a little contrived for plot purposes. I went with the flow and the story was good.
March 30, 2021
Sarah is a super butler. She's efficient, master of multitasker, she could kick butts and possessed a keen eye for shooting bullets.
And someone is obsessed with her.
Well, as I've said before, Linda Howard is an incredibly talented author that I want everyone to know about. She is my favourite romantic suspense author ever. She knows how to balance the suspense part and the romantic part very well.
In this one, the suspense part was very cleverly written. The creeper was definitely chillingly evil. And the romantic part, superb as usual. Though, there was that small part in the end that kinda bothered me but I could forgive that.
All in all, another great addition to her works. I'm scared now to read her less known books since I've almost cleared out all of her backlist.
And someone is obsessed with her.
Well, as I've said before, Linda Howard is an incredibly talented author that I want everyone to know about. She is my favourite romantic suspense author ever. She knows how to balance the suspense part and the romantic part very well.
In this one, the suspense part was very cleverly written. The creeper was definitely chillingly evil. And the romantic part, superb as usual. Though, there was that small part in the end that kinda bothered me but I could forgive that.
All in all, another great addition to her works. I'm scared now to read her less known books since I've almost cleared out all of her backlist.
December 15, 2025
Subjective 5 star incoming, please remain calm
I listened to this book while sketching my tiny garden for next year.
• . ݁₊ ⊹ . ʚ 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒅 𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 ɞ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. •
ˋ°•*⁀➷ Possible negatives
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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I listened to this book while sketching my tiny garden for next year.
• . ݁₊ ⊹ . ʚ 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒅 𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 ɞ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. •
ˋ°•*⁀➷ Possible negatives
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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November 20, 2017
4.5*
Wow. This book gave me so many feels!
I really loved the relationship between the heroine and her boss-the former Judge. I almost cried when he died. I really felt the h's emotions.
Then the asshole hero entered the pic. I was chuckling at his unromantic, blunt wooing. Their banter was funny. The hero had ups and downs. I loved him and didn't like him very much at the same time. Let's just say he didn't always make the right choices.
I really liked the heroine. She was a butler who knew martal arts. Butler/bodyguard. She was a badass.
The naked wrestling, now that was the hottest scene I've read by LH.
The creepy, stalking villain gave me the creeps. He did some fucked-up stuff toward the end. It threw me of my axis if I'm being honest. I almost upchucked my lasagna. I think it was bc I had such a strong connection with the h and felt her horror.
I felt the suspense in spades and gobbled up the pages. I'm glad I bought this hardcover along with my fave Cry No More, I'm sure I'll re-read it someday.
Wow. This book gave me so many feels!
I really loved the relationship between the heroine and her boss-the former Judge. I almost cried when he died. I really felt the h's emotions.
Then the asshole hero entered the pic. I was chuckling at his unromantic, blunt wooing. Their banter was funny. The hero had ups and downs. I loved him and didn't like him very much at the same time. Let's just say he didn't always make the right choices.
I really liked the heroine. She was a butler who knew martal arts. Butler/bodyguard. She was a badass.
The naked wrestling, now that was the hottest scene I've read by LH.
The creepy, stalking villain gave me the creeps. He did some fucked-up stuff toward the end. It threw me of my axis if I'm being honest. I almost upchucked my lasagna. I think it was bc I had such a strong connection with the h and felt her horror.
I felt the suspense in spades and gobbled up the pages. I'm glad I bought this hardcover along with my fave Cry No More, I'm sure I'll re-read it someday.
August 29, 2008
This is more a 3.5-4 star rating. It's a bit too long in the middle where nothing really seemed to happen which was starting to bug me but it did pick up like a rocket towards the end.
Sarah and Cahill were a bit odd as a couple. They got together too quickly at the beginning whereas I thought it needed more build up. I didn't feel a huge emotional connection even if the sex was good (woo hoo on the basement gym scene!) I didn't think the ending was believable at all with her cuffing him and having sex. Someone who's been through being sequestered I don't think would want to "play" like that.
The ending with Trevor the psycho was horrific especially when he ejaculated on her and belted her. He was really creepy and I never suspected him at all to be the bad guy.
It's a good story, but you have to be very patient in the middle when things don't really move.
Sarah and Cahill were a bit odd as a couple. They got together too quickly at the beginning whereas I thought it needed more build up. I didn't feel a huge emotional connection even if the sex was good (woo hoo on the basement gym scene!) I didn't think the ending was believable at all with her cuffing him and having sex. Someone who's been through being sequestered I don't think would want to "play" like that.
The ending with Trevor the psycho was horrific especially when he ejaculated on her and belted her. He was really creepy and I never suspected him at all to be the bad guy.
It's a good story, but you have to be very patient in the middle when things don't really move.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2015
Very good book even on second reading. I was reading a hard copy of this and I kept wanting to press the bookmark button to reference lovely bits of romantic dialog that the hero said to the heroine but dang it, I wasn't reading on my Kindle. I couldn't bring myself to dog ear my book. Maybe I should buy some of those flag tapes. ;-)
I liked the strong competent heroine and the cop who seems at first to be humorless and cold but when he warms up, wow what a sweetie.
If you like well done romantic suspense with a satisfying well done romance then you should really read this one.
I liked the strong competent heroine and the cop who seems at first to be humorless and cold but when he warms up, wow what a sweetie.
If you like well done romantic suspense with a satisfying well done romance then you should really read this one.
September 14, 2019
3.75 stars .
August 28, 2016
I would have liked it much more if I hadn't felt it disravel a bit at the end. Both main characters disappointed me a tad, she's written off as such a great kick ass lady, but at the end she's unable to defend herself. And I'm not talking about the villain either (or not only). The last hotel scene with the hero was a big let down to me. She's incredibly weak, and he behaves horribly. You do not "force" sex as a way to establish a connection, above all to such a distressed woman.
I might have accepted the forgiveness after the final scene, maybe. As it is, it was lame.
I might have accepted the forgiveness after the final scene, maybe. As it is, it was lame.
August 21, 2022
3.5 Stars.
February 10, 2022
4.5 Creepy Stalker Stars!
Sarah Stevens is a butler and bodyguard, an unusual position for a woman. She is working for a kindly, sweet retired elderly judge. They have an close amicable relationship and truly care and respect one another. One night Sarah thwarts a home robbery and becomes a media sensation and starts to get unwanted attention in the form of job offers, admirers, and gifts. One night she goes out for a movie and comes home to find the Judge murdered. During the questioning/investigating phase she meets Det. Cahill.
Sarah eventually connects with Cahill during the initial investigation, and they slowly start spending personal and intimate time together. Unfortunately, Sarah's anonymous admirer and creepy stalker places her under a veil of suspicion and endangers her and those she works for. Cahill trust that she’s innocent until that trust is shattered by another murder. Cahill’s lack of trust and suspension sends a distraught Sarah into making a emotional and impulsive decision that puts her life in jeopardy.
Reread and audiobook 🎧 reviewed on 2/08/22
I read this book several years ago and still have my paperback book, I have so many fantastic Linda Howard books that I reread frequently. Narrator Susan J. Erickson never disappoints, she’s a excellent narrator!
April 23, 2014
Audio. Narrated by Susan Erickson. She's very good, but the story turned me off. Cahill really let me down. Some hero. Simply not enough trust, dialogue, or relationship development. I didn't laugh or even smile, either. Too much raunchy sex -- and it follows soon after the murder of loved ones. Repeated mention of blood and brain matter. Lest we forget?
But my biggest problem?? I could NOT believe Sarah slept with Cahill after his big betrayal, at the police station. What a crock! He needed to work hard to win her trust again. But nope. She's cheap and easy. Even tho she decided (wisely) to end their relationship, when he knocks on her door, she immediately rolls over for him? PULEEZE!!
And the epilogue was a waste. Mostly, it was Cahill mentally rehashing the case, just as if we didn't already know -- all along -- what Dunsmuir had done, and what a sicko psycho he was. There was no mystery. The killer's POV was revealed from the beginning. Then, after that needless re-chewing of events, more sexy bondage and a declaration I didn't believe in.
I felt like I needed to wash this right out of my mind. Ick! I think it's Linda's worst effort. In addition to gratuitous sex, underdeveloped relationships, and yet another psychotic killer, her writing is weak in general. Repetitive, plus she focused on trivial details too much. Dump redundancy and trivia. Reduce the internal dialogue. Replace with dialogue and action. Plot.
But my biggest problem?? I could NOT believe Sarah slept with Cahill after his big betrayal, at the police station. What a crock! He needed to work hard to win her trust again. But nope. She's cheap and easy. Even tho she decided (wisely) to end their relationship, when he knocks on her door, she immediately rolls over for him? PULEEZE!!
And the epilogue was a waste. Mostly, it was Cahill mentally rehashing the case, just as if we didn't already know -- all along -- what Dunsmuir had done, and what a sicko psycho he was. There was no mystery. The killer's POV was revealed from the beginning. Then, after that needless re-chewing of events, more sexy bondage and a declaration I didn't believe in.
I felt like I needed to wash this right out of my mind. Ick! I think it's Linda's worst effort. In addition to gratuitous sex, underdeveloped relationships, and yet another psychotic killer, her writing is weak in general. Repetitive, plus she focused on trivial details too much. Dump redundancy and trivia. Reduce the internal dialogue. Replace with dialogue and action. Plot.
August 14, 2020
Meh. Sarah’s and Cahill’s relationship lacked chemistry and I sorta skimmed most of their smex scenes plus the suspense was predictable.
August 2, 2015
This book is so GOOD!!! It has easily become one of my favorite by Howard and I can't believe I missed it before.
The male and female leads have helluva chemistry and the countdown to the finale of the book is filled with excitement. I only wish that it would have been prolonged a little more to really get to savor the antagonist and get to know him...so to speak. But all in all it was very enjoyable.
The male and female leads have helluva chemistry and the countdown to the finale of the book is filled with excitement. I only wish that it would have been prolonged a little more to really get to savor the antagonist and get to know him...so to speak. But all in all it was very enjoyable.
December 2, 2017
3.25 stars
January 8, 2023
“Don’t you think she’s hot?”
He sighed. “Yeah, I think she’s hot.” In fact, he thought she was hotter than hot; she was scorching. The problem was, he’d already suffered third-degree burns in the relationship wars, and he didn’t have any skin to spare in another losing round.
When I initially discovered the goldmine that is Linda Howard novels, I went a little crazy and binge read everything I could get my hands on and never regretted the fact. Well, I regret it a bit because authors like Ms. Howard are scarce and few authors can live up to her exceptionally well written books featuring heroes of the kind that makes you swoon and palpitate in equal doses. For some reason, I had missed out on reading Dying to Please during my initial bingeing phase eons back, and I was glad for the fact too, because I could enjoy a novel from Ms. Howard and revel in the first time feels as if I were discovering her writing anew.
30 year old Sarah Stevens is butler/security guard to a retired judge who is 85 years of age. Having spent three years with the judge, Sarah is fond of him and looks upon her vocation as more than just her job. With no commitments in her life otherwise to tie her down (which she has worked hard to keep that way), Sarah dreams of traveling the world in style once she is no longer needed in her position.
Things turn a bit harrowing however, when a burglary attempt at the judge’s home is thwarted by Sarah, bringing her to the limelight via a feature done on television following her act of heroism. Amongst those admiring from afar is the villain, who wants Sarah to be his, and he is not going to stop until he fulfills his need to have her, even if it means dispensing of people along the way if need be.
When the judge is killed, leaving Sarah devastated and Detective Thomson Cahill after her as the prime suspect, it takes Sarah everything she has to move past the grief and get herself back together. Cahill whom she had fell instantly in lust with the moment they meet initially after the attempted burglary, Sarah who has no intention of embarking on any serious relationship, especially not with a man who is bitter about his ugly divorce just a year back, finds herself entangled with Cahill in a way that is all consuming.
Fate always seems to have the last laugh as Cahill is drawn to Sarah in equal fervor and before long, they are heating up the sheets and then some as the fire that burns between them consumes them both. Things come to a head however, when Sarah is lured into the lion’s den by the machinations of none other than the killer, who courts Sarah with every intention of making her his, because he is the only one who deserves a diamond like Sarah. Cahill has his work cut out for him as he comes to the realization of the massive blunder he has made when it comes to Sarah, and that it might already be too late for him to make amends if the killer were to have their way with Sarah.
Dying to Please is the kind of novel that offers engrossing characters both main and secondary, and a villain who makes the hair at the back of your neck stand up. The romantic elements are strong, giving the reader the perfect balance of suspense and romance, alongside with sex scenes of the kind that makes your insides hum. I swear to God that authors like Ms. Howard does a better job in rousing the emotions of readers with their love scenes than authors of the most explicit erotica can, and that is certainly saying something. The scenes of passion in this one were off-the-charts hot and it is definitely an experience I would not be forgetting anytime soon!
Sarah was a lovely heroine; equal parts strength and gentle femininity that was appealing on every level. Cahill on the other hand is the kind of hero that you fall for and hard, and at the same time, makes you want to bash your head against the wall as well. But ain’t that the fun part of reading a romance that is well done? Cahill is delicious, undoubtedly so – and the scars he carries from his marriage are all too real and one can understand why he puts up such a fuss when he falls so badly for Sarah. I just wish that Sarah had gone traveling as she had wanted all her adult life, and given the cocky Cahill something to really chew on as he stews back home, dying to grovel at Sarah’s feet to beg for her forgiveness. Now that, would have been fun!
Recommended for fans of finely balanced romantic suspense. Ms. Howard is a master storyteller!
Final Verdict: In Dying to Please, Ms. Howard offers a unique amalgam of elements that makes this romantic suspense stand out in every sense imaginable!
Rating = 4.25/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
September 29, 2018
Even better the 2nd time around :)
October 17, 2017
#84 for 2017 RC
Genre : Suspense Romance
Sarah Stevens, seorang kepala pelayan dari seorang pensiunan hakim, tiba-tiba menjadi terkenal akrena berhasil menggagalkan pencurian di rumah sang hakim, bahkan berhasil membekuk 3 maling yang berusaha melakukan pencurian tersebut seorang diri.
Tetapi begitu wawancaranya disiarkan di televisi, seorang pria menjadi terobsesi untuk mempekerjakannya sebagai kepala pelayannya.
Pria ini melakukan berbagai cara untuk mendapatkan Sarah, dan saat Sarah menolak tawarannya, dia pun membunuh sang hakim.
Suka sama Sarah dan agak-agak naksir sama Thomas Cahill. Tapi ada beberapa hal yang menurut saya menjadi lemah pada pengkarakteran Sarah.
Oh I know there are always an instant love in many books. Tapi kok cewek tangguh kayak Sarah jadi lemah lunglai sama Cahill dalam beberapa minggu. Kayaknya percintaan mereka agak-agak membahayakan bagi "kesehatan" mereka. 😄😄😄
Genre : Suspense Romance
Sarah Stevens, seorang kepala pelayan dari seorang pensiunan hakim, tiba-tiba menjadi terkenal akrena berhasil menggagalkan pencurian di rumah sang hakim, bahkan berhasil membekuk 3 maling yang berusaha melakukan pencurian tersebut seorang diri.
Tetapi begitu wawancaranya disiarkan di televisi, seorang pria menjadi terobsesi untuk mempekerjakannya sebagai kepala pelayannya.
Pria ini melakukan berbagai cara untuk mendapatkan Sarah, dan saat Sarah menolak tawarannya, dia pun membunuh sang hakim.
Suka sama Sarah dan agak-agak naksir sama Thomas Cahill. Tapi ada beberapa hal yang menurut saya menjadi lemah pada pengkarakteran Sarah.
Oh I know there are always an instant love in many books. Tapi kok cewek tangguh kayak Sarah jadi lemah lunglai sama Cahill dalam beberapa minggu. Kayaknya percintaan mereka agak-agak membahayakan bagi "kesehatan" mereka. 😄😄😄
December 24, 2023
UPDATE: I recently purchased the audiobook for this favorite “Oldie” Howard novel DYING TO PLEASE. It was nicely performed by Susan Ericksen who immediately pulled me into the story and kept my attention. Depending on my schedule, I switched between the audio and the digital version, finishing the novel with a smile. I again enjoyed this proximity-danger trope story and am sure to read/listen to it again in the future.
ORIGINAL POST:
DYING TO PLEASE was a reread for me of a favorite “Oldie” standalone Romance Suspense Thriller novel originally written in 2002.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4 Satisfied Stars.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKE THIS A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
Sarah Stevens/FMC is an experienced butler and bodyguard with training in both martial arts and firearms. Her clients are individuals or couples who entertain frequently and wish to have the talents of a bodyguard when necessary. Once Sarah is hired, she tends to stay with her clients until they no longer require her services. Her latest client has become as close as family. Seasoned Detective Cahill, 36/MMC meets Sarah for the first time when tragedy strikes her place of employment and her client is brutally killed. Once she is removed from the list of suspects, Sarah attempts to carry on and looks for a new position. A relationship even begins between herself and Cahill. But when another murder occurs Cahill and the police take a second look at Sarah and then the press gets involved.
What I Liked ~
1) Sarah’s employment as a butler and bodyguard is unique. I enjoy reading about characters with unusual careers.
2) I need to like the characters in books I read. I connected with both Sarah and Cahill. Sarah was kick a$$. I wanted to dislike Cahill for doubting Sarah but understood the necessity of a law enforcement officer needing to complete the necessary steps before clearing Sarah from the limited suspect list. The press isn’t as quick to clear her.
3) I am a long time fan of Linda Howard’s Romance Suspense Thriller novels. They simply “Click” with me. I found DTP both suspenseful and quite “earthy.” I believed the relationship that was developing between the MCs and wanted it to work even when circumstances seemed against them. I first read DYING TO PLEASE when it was released in 2002. Other than the minor technology differences, I feel it has aged well. It remains a favorite fun & sexy Proximity Danger story - one of my favorite tropes.
4) I always appreciate it when the antagonist reaps his just reward. ;)
Recommended to readers of:
1) Linda Howard, Karen Robard, perhaps Anne Stuart or Jayne Ann Krentz and similar Proximity Danger trope authors.
1) Romance Suspense.
2) Proximity Danger trope.
3) Action Thrillers.
4) Military/Law Enforcement Romance Suspense novels.
5) Any of the above with a preference for HEAs.
6) Readers who appreciate Seasoned and/or complicated rather than “Perfect” characters.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed scenes of open door intimacy occur which are of an “earthy” variety.
VIOLENCE - Yes. This is a murder mystery of sorts. Deaths occur and the basic details are covered but not in graphic detail.
POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNING - The antagonist is a sexual predator. Several brief scenes occur in the later part of the novel which some readers may wish to avoid. The scenes are brief and justice does prevail.
ORIGINAL POST:
DYING TO PLEASE was a reread for me of a favorite “Oldie” standalone Romance Suspense Thriller novel originally written in 2002.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4 Satisfied Stars.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKE THIS A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
Sarah Stevens/FMC is an experienced butler and bodyguard with training in both martial arts and firearms. Her clients are individuals or couples who entertain frequently and wish to have the talents of a bodyguard when necessary. Once Sarah is hired, she tends to stay with her clients until they no longer require her services. Her latest client has become as close as family. Seasoned Detective Cahill, 36/MMC meets Sarah for the first time when tragedy strikes her place of employment and her client is brutally killed. Once she is removed from the list of suspects, Sarah attempts to carry on and looks for a new position. A relationship even begins between herself and Cahill. But when another murder occurs Cahill and the police take a second look at Sarah and then the press gets involved.
What I Liked ~
1) Sarah’s employment as a butler and bodyguard is unique. I enjoy reading about characters with unusual careers.
2) I need to like the characters in books I read. I connected with both Sarah and Cahill. Sarah was kick a$$. I wanted to dislike Cahill for doubting Sarah but understood the necessity of a law enforcement officer needing to complete the necessary steps before clearing Sarah from the limited suspect list. The press isn’t as quick to clear her.
3) I am a long time fan of Linda Howard’s Romance Suspense Thriller novels. They simply “Click” with me. I found DTP both suspenseful and quite “earthy.” I believed the relationship that was developing between the MCs and wanted it to work even when circumstances seemed against them. I first read DYING TO PLEASE when it was released in 2002. Other than the minor technology differences, I feel it has aged well. It remains a favorite fun & sexy Proximity Danger story - one of my favorite tropes.
4) I always appreciate it when the antagonist reaps his just reward. ;)
Recommended to readers of:
1) Linda Howard, Karen Robard, perhaps Anne Stuart or Jayne Ann Krentz and similar Proximity Danger trope authors.
1) Romance Suspense.
2) Proximity Danger trope.
3) Action Thrillers.
4) Military/Law Enforcement Romance Suspense novels.
5) Any of the above with a preference for HEAs.
6) Readers who appreciate Seasoned and/or complicated rather than “Perfect” characters.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed scenes of open door intimacy occur which are of an “earthy” variety.
VIOLENCE - Yes. This is a murder mystery of sorts. Deaths occur and the basic details are covered but not in graphic detail.
POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNING - The antagonist is a sexual predator. Several brief scenes occur in the later part of the novel which some readers may wish to avoid. The scenes are brief and justice does prevail.
August 28, 2020
8/28/20 re-listen, the story mostly held up over time, with a few exceptions. I'd maybe give it a B now. But I still enjoyed the story and the narration, and liked both the main characters.
Grade A-/B+
Narrated by Susan Ericksen
As a professional butler, Sarah Stevens is trained to manage large household down to the smallest details. She’s also skilled as a bodyguard, which comes in handy in her present position as butler to a retired Federal judge. When an obsessed admirer sets out to secure Sarah’s services by any means possible, Detective Thomas Cahill is brought in to lead the investigation. As the mystery deepens, Sarah finds herself drawn into the investigation. Complicating matters is the attraction that draws Cahill and Sarah to each other.
Susan Ericksen, best known for her outstanding narration of J.D. Robb’s In Death series, handles Dying to Please with the same skill. The pacing and dynamics of her performance are excellent. Ericksen’s reading feels natural and there is never any confusion about who is speaking during conversations. She proves her versatility by making Sarah and Cahill sound unique rather than copies of Eve and Roarke.
Sarah isn't a typical heroine. She’s capable and tough but not the sassy, bad-ass kind of heroine authors often employ when they want strong female leads. Sarah, in keeping with her butler training, is reserved and professional instead of snarky. Ericksen gives Sarah a cool, understated voice, one that conveys strength and humor.
Cahill is a great hero, although flawed and not always likeable. At one point in the story Cahill makes a huge error in judgment. Given Cahill’s job and his past relationship history, the error feels in character. Howard does a great job making us feel his pain when he realizes the damage he's done. It was refreshing to see Cahill take full responsibility for his actions, and I admired his determination to make it right. Ericksen aptly portrays Cahill’s wide range of feelings and emotions, always managing to make him sound completely male.
The dynamics between the Sarah and Cahill is especially well done. Their relationship takes some time to develop, and the conflict in the relationship wasn't a misunderstanding that can be cleared up with a five-minute conversation. Instead, it packs an emotional punch.
I recommend the audio version of Dying to Please for any romantic suspense fan. It’s a good introduction to Linda Howard, as well as a good introduction to the excellent narrative abilities of Susan Ericksen. In addition, there is this extremely hot wrestling scene, which is not to be missed.
Reviewed for Speaking of Audiobooks:
http://www.likesbooks.com/blog/?p=8483
Grade A-/B+
Narrated by Susan Ericksen
As a professional butler, Sarah Stevens is trained to manage large household down to the smallest details. She’s also skilled as a bodyguard, which comes in handy in her present position as butler to a retired Federal judge. When an obsessed admirer sets out to secure Sarah’s services by any means possible, Detective Thomas Cahill is brought in to lead the investigation. As the mystery deepens, Sarah finds herself drawn into the investigation. Complicating matters is the attraction that draws Cahill and Sarah to each other.
Susan Ericksen, best known for her outstanding narration of J.D. Robb’s In Death series, handles Dying to Please with the same skill. The pacing and dynamics of her performance are excellent. Ericksen’s reading feels natural and there is never any confusion about who is speaking during conversations. She proves her versatility by making Sarah and Cahill sound unique rather than copies of Eve and Roarke.
Sarah isn't a typical heroine. She’s capable and tough but not the sassy, bad-ass kind of heroine authors often employ when they want strong female leads. Sarah, in keeping with her butler training, is reserved and professional instead of snarky. Ericksen gives Sarah a cool, understated voice, one that conveys strength and humor.
Cahill is a great hero, although flawed and not always likeable. At one point in the story Cahill makes a huge error in judgment. Given Cahill’s job and his past relationship history, the error feels in character. Howard does a great job making us feel his pain when he realizes the damage he's done. It was refreshing to see Cahill take full responsibility for his actions, and I admired his determination to make it right. Ericksen aptly portrays Cahill’s wide range of feelings and emotions, always managing to make him sound completely male.
The dynamics between the Sarah and Cahill is especially well done. Their relationship takes some time to develop, and the conflict in the relationship wasn't a misunderstanding that can be cleared up with a five-minute conversation. Instead, it packs an emotional punch.
I recommend the audio version of Dying to Please for any romantic suspense fan. It’s a good introduction to Linda Howard, as well as a good introduction to the excellent narrative abilities of Susan Ericksen. In addition, there is this extremely hot wrestling scene, which is not to be missed.
Reviewed for Speaking of Audiobooks:
http://www.likesbooks.com/blog/?p=8483
February 11, 2012
Actually 3.5 stars.
Dying to Please was a great example of a solid, entertaining, and somewhat gritty romantic suspense novel. Although I had a bit of trouble with the villain (Linda Howard didn't quite sell me on his motivations, but more on that below), the actions, dialog, and thought patterns of the main characters felt real and believable. I was so grateful that Howard didn't break the tone of the rest of the novel by trying to "make it all better" in the epilogue (or venture into the realm of WTF, as she did in [Book: Dream Man]'s epilogue).
I really liked both of the main characters. Sarah was a capable heroine who possessed an admirable inner strength, but she also revealed a believable degree of vulnerability when faced with horror and tragedy. Cahill was a typically-pigheaded Howard hero, but he was also lovable and quite sexy. I loved the way their relationship developed over the course of the novel.
My biggest problem with the novel was the villain, and it wasn't a major problem. I just wasn't quite content with the author's explanation for his actions. There are psychotic, murdering stalker-ish types out there in the real world, but not many. I just didn't find that character believable. Furthermore, I get tired of villains whose actions require psychoanalysis to be intelligible. They end up feeling gimmicky, especially when they are featured in so many suspense novels.
For the most part, I really enjoyed this novel. Also, Susan Ericksen's narration of the audio book was fantastic.
Dying to Please was a great example of a solid, entertaining, and somewhat gritty romantic suspense novel. Although I had a bit of trouble with the villain (Linda Howard didn't quite sell me on his motivations, but more on that below), the actions, dialog, and thought patterns of the main characters felt real and believable. I was so grateful that Howard didn't break the tone of the rest of the novel by trying to "make it all better" in the epilogue (or venture into the realm of WTF, as she did in [Book: Dream Man]'s epilogue).
I really liked both of the main characters. Sarah was a capable heroine who possessed an admirable inner strength, but she also revealed a believable degree of vulnerability when faced with horror and tragedy. Cahill was a typically-pigheaded Howard hero, but he was also lovable and quite sexy. I loved the way their relationship developed over the course of the novel.
My biggest problem with the novel was the villain, and it wasn't a major problem. I just wasn't quite content with the author's explanation for his actions. There are psychotic, murdering stalker-ish types out there in the real world, but not many. I just didn't find that character believable. Furthermore, I get tired of villains whose actions require psychoanalysis to be intelligible. They end up feeling gimmicky, especially when they are featured in so many suspense novels.
For the most part, I really enjoyed this novel. Also, Susan Ericksen's narration of the audio book was fantastic.
December 26, 2012
Girl butler and professional bodyguard, Sarah Stevens, meets speculating boy detective, Thomas Cahill, after a botched burglary in her employer's home.
Sarah and Cahill cross paths again when her employer, a retired judge, is found murdered in his home. An investigation commences. Sarah learns that someone is stalking her.
Eventually a romance unfolds and all sorts of naughty shenanigans take place. (Sarah is trained in martial arts and Cahill has no qualms about challenging her to a game of strip wrestling in his home gym.) They're attracted to each other, but fighting the feeling and unsure about the future. Sarah hasunrealistic plans to travel the world. Cahill is working his way through a messy, painful divorce.
The story takes a turn when Sarah's new employers are found murdered. Sarah is the main suspect. Cahill is asked to recuse himself from the investigation. About this same time, Sarah's uber creepystalker reveals himself and puts a well-thought plan into action.
The plot was average with typical twists, but bolstered by a believable, very hawt romance. The dialogue was clever and laced with humor as only Linda Howard can write dark humor. Still, I'm only rating this one three stars because the ending was "off". It lacked closure. The murders were solved but the relationship problems weren't dealt with. Cahill played knight-in-shining-armor to Sarah's damsel-in-distress and that was the end of it. I felt ripped off.
If you want to read a book by LH, I highly recommend Mr. Perfect, Open Season, After the Night.
Sarah and Cahill cross paths again when her employer, a retired judge, is found murdered in his home. An investigation commences. Sarah learns that someone is stalking her.
Eventually a romance unfolds and all sorts of naughty shenanigans take place. (Sarah is trained in martial arts and Cahill has no qualms about challenging her to a game of strip wrestling in his home gym.) They're attracted to each other, but fighting the feeling and unsure about the future. Sarah has
The story takes a turn when Sarah's new employers are found murdered. Sarah is the main suspect. Cahill is asked to recuse himself from the investigation. About this same time, Sarah's uber creepystalker reveals himself and puts a well-thought plan into action.
The plot was average with typical twists, but bolstered by a believable, very hawt romance. The dialogue was clever and laced with humor as only Linda Howard can write dark humor. Still, I'm only rating this one three stars because the ending was "off". It lacked closure. The murders were solved but the relationship problems weren't dealt with. Cahill played knight-in-shining-armor to Sarah's damsel-in-distress and that was the end of it. I felt ripped off.
If you want to read a book by LH, I highly recommend Mr. Perfect, Open Season, After the Night.
April 13, 2016
Engancha MUCHÍSIMO.
La estructura de la historia es lo que hace que enganche tanto. La voz desconocida de algunos de los capítulos te hace preguntarte mil cosas.
Pero...
Sarah me encantaba. Comprometida con su trabajo, responsable, una mujer preparada... Pero hay un detalle que me ha descuadrado de toda la historia: los trabajos. Cuando debería estar destrozada, acepta un nuevo trabajo incomprensiblemente. No me lo creo.
Y Cahill. He de aceptar que es uno de los protagonistas masculinos que crea mejor tensión sexual, a pesar de las pocas veces que aparece. En mi opinión, la primera vez que lo hace con Sarah es una de las escenas HOT más conseguidas que he leído nunca {interpreten...}, pero hay algo que también me falla. Pasar de estar traumatizado a completamente enamorado. No me lo creo.
Y por cierto, ¿qué significa ese título de "Morir por complacer"??????? NooooOOoooo!
A pesar de todo, no pude dejar el libro ni un minuto.
Es una de las reseñas EXPRESS en: http://unablogueraeventual.com/3-rese...
La estructura de la historia es lo que hace que enganche tanto. La voz desconocida de algunos de los capítulos te hace preguntarte mil cosas.
Pero...
Sarah me encantaba. Comprometida con su trabajo, responsable, una mujer preparada... Pero hay un detalle que me ha descuadrado de toda la historia: los trabajos. Cuando debería estar destrozada, acepta un nuevo trabajo incomprensiblemente. No me lo creo.
Y Cahill. He de aceptar que es uno de los protagonistas masculinos que crea mejor tensión sexual, a pesar de las pocas veces que aparece. En mi opinión, la primera vez que lo hace con Sarah es una de las escenas HOT más conseguidas que he leído nunca {interpreten...}, pero hay algo que también me falla. Pasar de estar traumatizado a completamente enamorado. No me lo creo.
Y por cierto, ¿qué significa ese título de "Morir por complacer"??????? NooooOOoooo!
A pesar de todo, no pude dejar el libro ni un minuto.
Es una de las reseñas EXPRESS en: http://unablogueraeventual.com/3-rese...
December 7, 2020
Romantic Suspence / Contemporary Romance
Publication date: April 29, 2002
Dying to Please is an action-packed story that keeps you engaged from the beginning till the end. There was not so much sizzle and not much interesting conversations between the main characters like in e.g Mr. Perfect, Open Season, Dream Man but there were steamy and memorable sex scenes (like strip wrestling match). Good mix of suspense and romance.
Publication date: April 29, 2002
Dying to Please is an action-packed story that keeps you engaged from the beginning till the end. There was not so much sizzle and not much interesting conversations between the main characters like in e.g Mr. Perfect, Open Season, Dream Man but there were steamy and memorable sex scenes (like strip wrestling match). Good mix of suspense and romance.
June 25, 2008
I loved this book! I really enjoyed the realtionship between Cahill and Sarah. Sarah is a butler and bodyguard to an elderly judge. A series of murders makes Sarah look like the top suspect. Cahill is the dectetive brought in on the case.
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