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Strictly Professional
Strictly Professional
Book by Hayes, Sherri
338 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2010
About the author
Sherri Hayes
31 books1,252 followersSherri picked up her first romance novel when she was twelve and immediately she was hooked. She would stay up reading long after everyone else in her house had gone to bed, needing to see the hero and heroine get their happily ever after. But Sherri never imagined becoming an author.
At the age of thirty, all that changed. After getting frustrated with the direction a television show was taking two of its characters, Sherri decided to try her hand at writing an alternative ending to give the characters the happy ending they deserved.
Since then, writing has become a creative outlet that allows her to explore a wide range of emotions, while having fun taking her characters through all the twists and turns she can create. You can find a current list of all of Sherri’s books and sign up for her newsletter at www.sherrihayesauthor.com.
At the age of thirty, all that changed. After getting frustrated with the direction a television show was taking two of its characters, Sherri decided to try her hand at writing an alternative ending to give the characters the happy ending they deserved.
Since then, writing has become a creative outlet that allows her to explore a wide range of emotions, while having fun taking her characters through all the twists and turns she can create. You can find a current list of all of Sherri’s books and sign up for her newsletter at www.sherrihayesauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 13, 2011
I loved this book!
Hidden Threat by Sherri Hayes reminded me why I like the romantic suspense genre so much. Sherri created a compelling story about two singles meeting in unexpected circumstances, both drawn to each other but trying to deny their feelings to avoid an ill-advised office romance.
Cali Stanton is a physician returning from Africa to help out her father, the owner of a pharmaceutical company who has to take leave from his position due to an accident. She reluctantly agrees to take over in his absence though she’d rather continue her healing work for Doctors Without Borders.
Matthew Anderson is the head of security for Stanton Enterprises. He and his brother have been called in to sniff out a saboteur hijacking pharmaceutical shipments. The “hidden threat” is the very reason Cali’s father needs someone he trusts to take his place. Matthew is loyal and determined to neutralize the threat, though when he first meets Cali he’s hit by feelings that are anything but neutral.
How can he fall for the boss’ daughter? Matthew is full of integrity, but the attraction he feels for Cali makes it difficult for him to remain professional. Cali’s just as attracted to the blue-eyed hunk, though she’s quite confused by his hot/cold behavior toward her. Meanwhile, the threats to Cali’s safety intensify, and Matthew will have to call on all of his skills to try to keep her safe.
The angst about killed me in this story! (In a good way.) Sherri Hayes did an awesome job writing unresolved sexual tension.
“A deep blush crossed Cali’s skin, and Matthew almost lost it. This woman was driving him crazy. He wanted to touch her, to crush her to his body, and kiss her to within an inch of her life. Instead of doing any of those things though, he took a step back toward the elevators.” (p. 124).
Arghhh! Kiss her, Matthew. Do it.
I liked when they were watching a football game with another couple, trying to hide their amorous feelings for each other, and Cali was studying Matthew. It’s evident she loves him on the inside too:
“She found she was more mesmerized by watching Matthew than the game. That really shouldn’t have surprised her though. Matthew was captivating. He was brilliant and disciplined. His sense of humor was quick when he came out from behind the mask he wore. And he was sweet, warm, and loving.”
I want my own Matthew. *pouts*
Sherri’s writing style is clean and concise. Hidden Threat is a wonderful debut novel!
Hidden Threat by Sherri Hayes reminded me why I like the romantic suspense genre so much. Sherri created a compelling story about two singles meeting in unexpected circumstances, both drawn to each other but trying to deny their feelings to avoid an ill-advised office romance.
Cali Stanton is a physician returning from Africa to help out her father, the owner of a pharmaceutical company who has to take leave from his position due to an accident. She reluctantly agrees to take over in his absence though she’d rather continue her healing work for Doctors Without Borders.
Matthew Anderson is the head of security for Stanton Enterprises. He and his brother have been called in to sniff out a saboteur hijacking pharmaceutical shipments. The “hidden threat” is the very reason Cali’s father needs someone he trusts to take his place. Matthew is loyal and determined to neutralize the threat, though when he first meets Cali he’s hit by feelings that are anything but neutral.
How can he fall for the boss’ daughter? Matthew is full of integrity, but the attraction he feels for Cali makes it difficult for him to remain professional. Cali’s just as attracted to the blue-eyed hunk, though she’s quite confused by his hot/cold behavior toward her. Meanwhile, the threats to Cali’s safety intensify, and Matthew will have to call on all of his skills to try to keep her safe.
The angst about killed me in this story! (In a good way.) Sherri Hayes did an awesome job writing unresolved sexual tension.
“A deep blush crossed Cali’s skin, and Matthew almost lost it. This woman was driving him crazy. He wanted to touch her, to crush her to his body, and kiss her to within an inch of her life. Instead of doing any of those things though, he took a step back toward the elevators.” (p. 124).
Arghhh! Kiss her, Matthew. Do it.
I liked when they were watching a football game with another couple, trying to hide their amorous feelings for each other, and Cali was studying Matthew. It’s evident she loves him on the inside too:
“She found she was more mesmerized by watching Matthew than the game. That really shouldn’t have surprised her though. Matthew was captivating. He was brilliant and disciplined. His sense of humor was quick when he came out from behind the mask he wore. And he was sweet, warm, and loving.”
I want my own Matthew. *pouts*
Sherri’s writing style is clean and concise. Hidden Threat is a wonderful debut novel!
February 4, 2011
I loved this book from beginning to end. I tend to get sucked into stories, but this story sucked me in even more deeply than usual, having me up at all hours of the night mumbling 'just one more chapter,'
and then when I got to the next point I would push through another...and another. It was wonderfully crafted and a real treat for any mystery/suspense/romance lover!
and then when I got to the next point I would push through another...and another. It was wonderfully crafted and a real treat for any mystery/suspense/romance lover!
February 20, 2011
It isn’t often that I sit down with a book and end up awake until the small hours of the morning telling myself just one more chapter. One more chapter and I’m going to bed. Hidden Threat is one of those books. At the end of every chapter I promised myself that I would put it down, that I would leave the rest until the morning, and then at the start of the next one, I said exactly the same again.
The sexual tension between the characters builds and builds until you’re on the edge of your seat, begging them to open their eyes and see what’s right in front of them. And if that isn’t enough to keep you turning page after page, then the constant threat of danger is. It starts slowly, with seemingly innocent things, a letter here, a picture there, and then it blossoms, exploding into the book.
Once the severity of the dangers faced by the characters rears its head, you’re confronted by a double whammy that keeps the pages turning. The tension between them will have you squealing in delight when Cali and Matthew finally admit how they feel to each other, and tearing your hair out when the finale threatens to tear them both apart. The combination keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more, turning the pages until there are no more to turn.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and can’t wait to open it up and read it a second time.
The sexual tension between the characters builds and builds until you’re on the edge of your seat, begging them to open their eyes and see what’s right in front of them. And if that isn’t enough to keep you turning page after page, then the constant threat of danger is. It starts slowly, with seemingly innocent things, a letter here, a picture there, and then it blossoms, exploding into the book.
Once the severity of the dangers faced by the characters rears its head, you’re confronted by a double whammy that keeps the pages turning. The tension between them will have you squealing in delight when Cali and Matthew finally admit how they feel to each other, and tearing your hair out when the finale threatens to tear them both apart. The combination keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more, turning the pages until there are no more to turn.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and can’t wait to open it up and read it a second time.
February 7, 2017
Please note that this book was originally published in 2010 but my review is for the updated version of Hidden Threat (published in January 2016) which has been extensively rewritten and contains a lot of additional content.
Cali Stanton has never been interested in taking over her father's company, she's much more focused on her own career working for Doctors Without Borders in Africa, she loves everything about being a doctor, especially being able to help people who are less fortunate than she is. However, when she finds out her father was in an accident and will be out of commission for several months she agrees to come home on a temporary basis to look after things for him until he's back on his feet. Cali is really thrown in at the deep end, she knows very little about running a business, so the endless meetings and numerous spreadsheets are completely overwhelming but on top of that she has to try and help her father's security team figure out why the company is being targeted and how so many of their deliveries are being hijacked before they reach their destinations.
Matthew Anderson is the head of security for Stanton Enterprises, Cali's father brought him and his brother, Jason, in to investigate the missing shipments but they're still struggling to uncover exactly what is going on. They have increased security and been able to protect some of the latest deliveries but they know someone fairly high up in the company must be involved somehow and leaking information and it's not easy trying to pin down who. As the threats become increasingly personal and Cali's life is put at risk it is up to Matt to try and keep her safe but can he figure things out in time?
I had high hopes for this novel since I usually love Sherri Hayes' writing so this should have been an instant hit. Unfortunately it didn't quite live up to my expectations and although both the main characters were fairly likeable there were too many things that didn't quite fit together for this to become a favourite new story. I think my first issue was with Cali taking over her father's company, it just seemed utterly ridiculous for him to hand the reigns over to her when she had absolutely no clue what she was doing. She may be a brilliant doctor but that doesn't qualify her to run a multinational corporation and it didn't make sense that he would expect her to be able to walk in and just get on with things, especially when he had a member of staff on hand whom he had been training to take over when he retires. As it turned out her father's assistant had to do most of the work for her so it would probably have been better to leave her in charge!
Then you have the attraction between Cali and Matt, I get that they were trying to be professional and not have an employee / employer kind of affair and to be honest I respected them for that but they acted like a pair of hormonal teenagers which irritated me no end. From the very first time they saw each other pretty much all they could think about was how sexy the other person was and how much they wanted them, they practically started drooling whenever they were in the same room with each other and it got incredibly frustrating and quite boring being stuck inside their heads for the same thoughts over and over and over again. It improved a lot when they finally gave into temptation though and I can't deny that they had great chemistry but by that point I was already struggling.
The mystery side could have been really good and there were parts of it that were unexpected but the I'd pegged the main bad guy incredibly early on. It wasn't difficult since there was a very limited pool of suspects, in fact there is only one person I can actually think of! I kept hoping I would be wrong and that there would be some kind of twist to it so I was sadly disappointed by the ending. The book isn't all bad though, there are some very sweet moments between Cali and Matt, I enjoyed getting to know some of the side characters and the story had plenty of humour it was just lacking the sense of anticipation and worry that I normally expect from romantic suspense. This may not be my favourite Sherri Hayes book but I'll still planning on reading A Christmas Proposal, a short story featuring this couple set after the end of Hidden Threat, and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for new releases from this author.
Cali Stanton has never been interested in taking over her father's company, she's much more focused on her own career working for Doctors Without Borders in Africa, she loves everything about being a doctor, especially being able to help people who are less fortunate than she is. However, when she finds out her father was in an accident and will be out of commission for several months she agrees to come home on a temporary basis to look after things for him until he's back on his feet. Cali is really thrown in at the deep end, she knows very little about running a business, so the endless meetings and numerous spreadsheets are completely overwhelming but on top of that she has to try and help her father's security team figure out why the company is being targeted and how so many of their deliveries are being hijacked before they reach their destinations.
Matthew Anderson is the head of security for Stanton Enterprises, Cali's father brought him and his brother, Jason, in to investigate the missing shipments but they're still struggling to uncover exactly what is going on. They have increased security and been able to protect some of the latest deliveries but they know someone fairly high up in the company must be involved somehow and leaking information and it's not easy trying to pin down who. As the threats become increasingly personal and Cali's life is put at risk it is up to Matt to try and keep her safe but can he figure things out in time?
I had high hopes for this novel since I usually love Sherri Hayes' writing so this should have been an instant hit. Unfortunately it didn't quite live up to my expectations and although both the main characters were fairly likeable there were too many things that didn't quite fit together for this to become a favourite new story. I think my first issue was with Cali taking over her father's company, it just seemed utterly ridiculous for him to hand the reigns over to her when she had absolutely no clue what she was doing. She may be a brilliant doctor but that doesn't qualify her to run a multinational corporation and it didn't make sense that he would expect her to be able to walk in and just get on with things, especially when he had a member of staff on hand whom he had been training to take over when he retires. As it turned out her father's assistant had to do most of the work for her so it would probably have been better to leave her in charge!
Then you have the attraction between Cali and Matt, I get that they were trying to be professional and not have an employee / employer kind of affair and to be honest I respected them for that but they acted like a pair of hormonal teenagers which irritated me no end. From the very first time they saw each other pretty much all they could think about was how sexy the other person was and how much they wanted them, they practically started drooling whenever they were in the same room with each other and it got incredibly frustrating and quite boring being stuck inside their heads for the same thoughts over and over and over again. It improved a lot when they finally gave into temptation though and I can't deny that they had great chemistry but by that point I was already struggling.
The mystery side could have been really good and there were parts of it that were unexpected but the I'd pegged the main bad guy incredibly early on. It wasn't difficult since there was a very limited pool of suspects, in fact there is only one person I can actually think of! I kept hoping I would be wrong and that there would be some kind of twist to it so I was sadly disappointed by the ending. The book isn't all bad though, there are some very sweet moments between Cali and Matt, I enjoyed getting to know some of the side characters and the story had plenty of humour it was just lacking the sense of anticipation and worry that I normally expect from romantic suspense. This may not be my favourite Sherri Hayes book but I'll still planning on reading A Christmas Proposal, a short story featuring this couple set after the end of Hidden Threat, and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for new releases from this author.
November 7, 2011
Hidden Threat by Sherri Hayes is my very first novel by the author and one that I immensely enjoyed reading. 28 year old Cali Stanton, heiress to the multi-million dollar Stanton Enterprises is summoned by her father back to the States whilst on one of her tours to Africa with her team of Doctors Without Borders. Cali rushes back home though finances and dealing with the day-to-day management of a company is the furthest thing she wants to be doing.
Cali’s first day at work turns out to be one filled with surprises from her gut deep reaction towards the 31 year old Matthew Andersen who manages the security aspect of the building and the company to the shocking news that Matthew imparts that leaves Cali reeling. The news that her father has been personally receiving threats which had escalated in nature oft late and that those vicious threats may now be targeted towards her is totally not what Cali had been looking forward to.
Matthew is shell shocked by his visceral reaction towards the daughter of his boss who in turn is going to be acting as his boss for the next three months. Matthew thrives on control and order in his life and he is not at all pleased to find that the mere presence of Cali puts all his emotions on a wild roller coaster ride which he resists with every fiber of his being.
The sexual attraction and the sizzle that lingers between Cali and Matthew takes the centre-stage of this story as both of them try to brush aside their attraction towards each other as anything else but that. But when the danger escalates throwing Cali right in the midst of it all, there is no stopping Matthew from taking charge of her life, vowing to keep her safe until the hidden threat is neutralized once and for all.
Sharing living quarters with the woman who has been playing centrefold in his dreams ever since she entered his life seems to chip away at the last bit of resistance that Matthew has got. Though Matthew knows that for him, Cali is just more than a simple affair, there is no moving forward in their relationship until the villain is caught, who seems to be working more closely in their organization than any of them foresaw.
Though I am not much of a fan of rehashing events in novels, somehow that works in this story bringing to light just how far and deep Cali and Matthews’ attraction runs for each other. Sherri has the reader practically squirming before delivering on all that fabulous sexual tension which was one of the best aspects of the novel.
Matthew has a control on his emotions and behavior that is a bit daunting as nothing fazes him and ceretainly no female has ever had him in a twist, that is until Cali enters his otherwise mundane and well ordered life and makes him lose every shred of that control that is legendary amongst those who knows him. Its the way Sherri brings his character to life, showing just how much his sort of forbidden attraction towards Cali affects him that makes this such a compelling read.
Cali’s character is an endearing one as well, one who doesn’t hide behind pretenses and secrets but rather takes what she can get with Matthew even when she knows that by the end of the affair, her heart might just shatter into pieces. And though she lets Matthew control aspects of her life due to danger that surrounds her, I admired her because she is no pushover though she loves Matthew to pieces and would lay down her very life for him.
Worthy of a mention is the secondary romance that takes place between Jason, Matthews’ older brother and Cali’s assistant Lisa that continues throughout the story.
Hidden Threat is a novel that compels you to keep on turning one page after the other, just so that you can spend a few more minutes immersed in the magic that is Cali and Matthew.
Recommended for fans of romantic suspense strong in the romance element, with sizzling sensuality that works its magic all the way!
Rating=4/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
Quotes included below the review!
Cali’s first day at work turns out to be one filled with surprises from her gut deep reaction towards the 31 year old Matthew Andersen who manages the security aspect of the building and the company to the shocking news that Matthew imparts that leaves Cali reeling. The news that her father has been personally receiving threats which had escalated in nature oft late and that those vicious threats may now be targeted towards her is totally not what Cali had been looking forward to.
Matthew is shell shocked by his visceral reaction towards the daughter of his boss who in turn is going to be acting as his boss for the next three months. Matthew thrives on control and order in his life and he is not at all pleased to find that the mere presence of Cali puts all his emotions on a wild roller coaster ride which he resists with every fiber of his being.
The sexual attraction and the sizzle that lingers between Cali and Matthew takes the centre-stage of this story as both of them try to brush aside their attraction towards each other as anything else but that. But when the danger escalates throwing Cali right in the midst of it all, there is no stopping Matthew from taking charge of her life, vowing to keep her safe until the hidden threat is neutralized once and for all.
Sharing living quarters with the woman who has been playing centrefold in his dreams ever since she entered his life seems to chip away at the last bit of resistance that Matthew has got. Though Matthew knows that for him, Cali is just more than a simple affair, there is no moving forward in their relationship until the villain is caught, who seems to be working more closely in their organization than any of them foresaw.
Though I am not much of a fan of rehashing events in novels, somehow that works in this story bringing to light just how far and deep Cali and Matthews’ attraction runs for each other. Sherri has the reader practically squirming before delivering on all that fabulous sexual tension which was one of the best aspects of the novel.
Matthew has a control on his emotions and behavior that is a bit daunting as nothing fazes him and ceretainly no female has ever had him in a twist, that is until Cali enters his otherwise mundane and well ordered life and makes him lose every shred of that control that is legendary amongst those who knows him. Its the way Sherri brings his character to life, showing just how much his sort of forbidden attraction towards Cali affects him that makes this such a compelling read.
Cali’s character is an endearing one as well, one who doesn’t hide behind pretenses and secrets but rather takes what she can get with Matthew even when she knows that by the end of the affair, her heart might just shatter into pieces. And though she lets Matthew control aspects of her life due to danger that surrounds her, I admired her because she is no pushover though she loves Matthew to pieces and would lay down her very life for him.
Worthy of a mention is the secondary romance that takes place between Jason, Matthews’ older brother and Cali’s assistant Lisa that continues throughout the story.
Hidden Threat is a novel that compels you to keep on turning one page after the other, just so that you can spend a few more minutes immersed in the magic that is Cali and Matthew.
Recommended for fans of romantic suspense strong in the romance element, with sizzling sensuality that works its magic all the way!
Rating=4/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
Quotes included below the review!
October 10, 2011
Another book I couldn't put down once I started reading. Suspense, greed, romance all make for a good story and Matthew's & Cali's story had plenty of all three and a little bit more. I pretty much had an idea whodunit but was definitely surprised by the end, particularly with the revelation of a couple of the characters (who shall remain nameless because of the potential of spoiling it). I've already passed my copy on to a co-worker and am waiting to hear what she has to say.
Great job Sherri!
Update: My co-worker said she really likes it so far. She wants to know when the sex is going to come into play. LOL
Great job Sherri!
Update: My co-worker said she really likes it so far. She wants to know when the sex is going to come into play. LOL
April 10, 2011
This was an absolutely breath taking book. It was a great mystery and a wonderful romance. There was so much sexual tension you could cut it with a knife. I loved watching Cali and Matt fight their attraction to one another. The book has a great HEA ending.
This is Sherri's first book. I am extremely impressed. I can't say enough about how much I liked this book. I can't wait for her next one to come out.
This is Sherri's first book. I am extremely impressed. I can't say enough about how much I liked this book. I can't wait for her next one to come out.
May 2, 2016
4 stars.
Cali is a doctor working in Africa with doctors without boarders. Her dad asks her to come home to Chicago. Cali's dad is hurt and needs her to run the family business while he heals. She comes home to find her dad has been threatened and the business is being sabotaged. Matthew is head of security for Cali's dads company. Matthew and Cali need to figure who is behind the trouble before it's to late.
okay..... I really enjoyed this book. It was really interesting with twists and danger. It had great flow. I loved the POV's from Cali and Matthew. I was kept guessing as the plot thickened. This story kept me on the edge of my seat page by page.
now for the good stuff....
Cali was a smart head strong woman. Matthew was a tough take no shit man.
I liked the back and forth between Cali and Matthew. Matthew was used to being in control, and Cali pushed at his take charge personality. When they have there time together without outside influence Cali and Matthew are more than just smitten.
Cali and Matthew had an instant spark. Neither knew what to do about it. Which led to some crazy sexual tension. Their chemistry was off the chart. Even there dreams were hot. When the finally came together explosive.
Once tragedy strikes we see a different side of Matthew and Cali. The compassion and fear and jealousy just made this book that much more intense.
This was a wonderful suspenseful story. I highly recommend this book.
* I was gifted a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Cali is a doctor working in Africa with doctors without boarders. Her dad asks her to come home to Chicago. Cali's dad is hurt and needs her to run the family business while he heals. She comes home to find her dad has been threatened and the business is being sabotaged. Matthew is head of security for Cali's dads company. Matthew and Cali need to figure who is behind the trouble before it's to late.
okay..... I really enjoyed this book. It was really interesting with twists and danger. It had great flow. I loved the POV's from Cali and Matthew. I was kept guessing as the plot thickened. This story kept me on the edge of my seat page by page.
now for the good stuff....
Cali was a smart head strong woman. Matthew was a tough take no shit man.
I liked the back and forth between Cali and Matthew. Matthew was used to being in control, and Cali pushed at his take charge personality. When they have there time together without outside influence Cali and Matthew are more than just smitten.
Cali and Matthew had an instant spark. Neither knew what to do about it. Which led to some crazy sexual tension. Their chemistry was off the chart. Even there dreams were hot. When the finally came together explosive.
Once tragedy strikes we see a different side of Matthew and Cali. The compassion and fear and jealousy just made this book that much more intense.
This was a wonderful suspenseful story. I highly recommend this book.
* I was gifted a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
February 13, 2016
3.5 Not so hidden anymore stars!
Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy from Author
I have read this book before but when Sherri has asked for another review after she re-edited and added to it, I jumped at the chance as I quite like the writing of Sherri Hayes. It has felt forever since reading it the first time (2012), so not all the details were clear to me, but I have to admit I have no clue where the additions were. I'm also a lot more critical now then I was in a few years ago. However, it was still a super sweet story filled with suspense and romance. Sure the suspense was less since I knew the outcome but it still had me on my toes.
Cali Stanton is forced to come home to help her dad, even though it's the last thing she wants. Sure she wants to help her dad after he had an accident, but she's a doctor and loves being a doctor, not a paper pusher. As Cali is home she quickly finds out there is a lot that her dad was keeping secret while she was away. Matthew Andersen is head of Stanton security and takes his job very seriously, so the last thing he wants is the attraction to his acting boss or his boss's daughter.
However, the power of attraction and soulmates is a tough one to fight. Matthew tries everything to stay away because he wants to keep Cali safe, and he doesn't know how to do both of those things without compromising the safety of Cali or the integrity of his job. As the secrets come out and the threat gets closer and closer, Matt is done fighting and tries to do both.
Did I like the two of them together? Yes, after I got over wanting to strangle them from their lack of communication. So many things would have been different if they actually talked, but where would have been the angst if they did? Did I like the suspense? Yes, when I read it the first time I remember being surprised with the who dunnit. This time around I knew the outcome but was trying to see how they didn't see it coming sooner now that I had all the information ahead of time.
This wasn't a heavy book but sweet and suspenseful. Matthew and Cali were good together and I can't wait to read more from this author and series.
November 9, 2011
Really enjoyed this book.
December 2, 2011
I really liked this book. I thought the romance and the suspense mixed nicely.
March 24, 2012
Very entertaining and filled with suspense. Quite enjoyable.
Read
February 18, 2026DNF
April 23, 2011
After learning that her father has been in an accident, Cali Stanton immediately returns home from overseas. Because of his injuries, her father is unable to work and asks Cali to take over his business while he recovers. She agrees, but is wary when he reveals that he's hired two new specialized security managers for the company. Why would the CEO of a medical supply company need beefed up security?
"Beefed up" takes on a whole new meaning when Cali lays eyes on Matthew Andersen, one of the new security managers. Right away there are sparks between the couple, despite their refusal to mix business with pleasure. As threats to the company begin to escalate and Cali's life is put in jeopardy, Matthew is even more determined to nail whoever is behind this. But can he figure out who's sabotaging the company while also juggling his growing attraction to the boss's daughter?
Wow, did this book suck me in! Right away I was pulled into Cali's life as she returned home and assumed the temporary position as CEO. She was fiercely independent, but not at all obnoxiously stubborn or TSTL (too stupid to live). Matthew was definitely an Alpha hero, but his protectiveness came off as concern instead of caveman-like. A large portion of the book focuses on the build-up between the couple, and I really appreciated the back and forth "dance" between them; it reminded me of real-life, where men and women play the "I like him, but refuse to admit it because I'm not sure he feels the same way" game. You know which one I'm talking about. Drives you crazy in a sexy-cool sort of way...love it!
I also really enjoyed how the narrative didn't only focus on Cali and Matthew. For example, there were also well-developed scenes involving Matthew's brother, Jason, and his love interest, which not only added substance, but also provided insight into the main characters from a secondary point-of-view. Also, I'm usually the sort of person who can figure out "whodunnit" way before the main characters can, but I was surprised by the twists and turns throughout the book. I will say, however, that there were a few grammatical errors that my editing eyes couldn't help but notice, but to be honest, the story was so good that they were easily dismissed. Ooh, one more plus to top off the compliment sandwich: Even though the backdrop revolved around a medical company, the narrative was not littered with incomprehensible jargon, which was extremely refreshing, especially since it seemed like an easy opportunity for the author to insert a bunch of medical mumbo-jumbo. Final thoughts: go forth and read it for yourself!
"Beefed up" takes on a whole new meaning when Cali lays eyes on Matthew Andersen, one of the new security managers. Right away there are sparks between the couple, despite their refusal to mix business with pleasure. As threats to the company begin to escalate and Cali's life is put in jeopardy, Matthew is even more determined to nail whoever is behind this. But can he figure out who's sabotaging the company while also juggling his growing attraction to the boss's daughter?
Wow, did this book suck me in! Right away I was pulled into Cali's life as she returned home and assumed the temporary position as CEO. She was fiercely independent, but not at all obnoxiously stubborn or TSTL (too stupid to live). Matthew was definitely an Alpha hero, but his protectiveness came off as concern instead of caveman-like. A large portion of the book focuses on the build-up between the couple, and I really appreciated the back and forth "dance" between them; it reminded me of real-life, where men and women play the "I like him, but refuse to admit it because I'm not sure he feels the same way" game. You know which one I'm talking about. Drives you crazy in a sexy-cool sort of way...love it!
I also really enjoyed how the narrative didn't only focus on Cali and Matthew. For example, there were also well-developed scenes involving Matthew's brother, Jason, and his love interest, which not only added substance, but also provided insight into the main characters from a secondary point-of-view. Also, I'm usually the sort of person who can figure out "whodunnit" way before the main characters can, but I was surprised by the twists and turns throughout the book. I will say, however, that there were a few grammatical errors that my editing eyes couldn't help but notice, but to be honest, the story was so good that they were easily dismissed. Ooh, one more plus to top off the compliment sandwich: Even though the backdrop revolved around a medical company, the narrative was not littered with incomprehensible jargon, which was extremely refreshing, especially since it seemed like an easy opportunity for the author to insert a bunch of medical mumbo-jumbo. Final thoughts: go forth and read it for yourself!
November 11, 2012
Great multi characters/romance/suspense book.
Matthew Andersen and Cali Stanton main couple in the book. Cali Stanton had been working in Africa with Doctors Without Borders when she got a call from her father who had been in an accident. He needed her to come and run his company as he would be out of commission for 3 months. Right away after meeting with his father's security team, brother Matthew and Jason Anderson, she finds out that someone has been threatening her father and hijacking there medical shipments and that there also had been some in house embezzling going on in the company. In there first meeting both Cali and Matthew are strongly attracted to each other but due to there jobs neither lets the other know and boy do they end up torchering themselves before finally giving in. Honestly I wanted to beat Matthew over the head for taking the whole cant cross the line with the boss to the extreme. Matthew and his brother are complete opposites. Jason likes to be out in the action, and Matthew liked to work alone. After Cali starts receiving letters and pictures and an attempt is made on her life Matthew finally puts Mr Angsty aside and pulls out Mr Alpha and things heat up in the relationship aspect between him and Cali.
Jason Anderson and Lisa Morgan Jason being Matthews older brother is his voice of reason through the book - he doesn't listen to him very well but he tries. He has also been having a relationship with Lisa who is Cali's father's assistant and now Cali's. These two were like the sane together couple of the book :)
Alvin and Jessie Alvin is Cali's father and Jessie has been with the family for 20 years and was like a surrogate mother to Cali.
The suspense part of the book kept me going. I had one of the bad guys figured out from the start but did not see what the overall outcome ended up being. The romance was a seamlessly intertwined with the suspense and you couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next with each.
Matthew Andersen and Cali Stanton main couple in the book. Cali Stanton had been working in Africa with Doctors Without Borders when she got a call from her father who had been in an accident. He needed her to come and run his company as he would be out of commission for 3 months. Right away after meeting with his father's security team, brother Matthew and Jason Anderson, she finds out that someone has been threatening her father and hijacking there medical shipments and that there also had been some in house embezzling going on in the company. In there first meeting both Cali and Matthew are strongly attracted to each other but due to there jobs neither lets the other know and boy do they end up torchering themselves before finally giving in. Honestly I wanted to beat Matthew over the head for taking the whole cant cross the line with the boss to the extreme. Matthew and his brother are complete opposites. Jason likes to be out in the action, and Matthew liked to work alone. After Cali starts receiving letters and pictures and an attempt is made on her life Matthew finally puts Mr Angsty aside and pulls out Mr Alpha and things heat up in the relationship aspect between him and Cali.
Jason Anderson and Lisa Morgan Jason being Matthews older brother is his voice of reason through the book - he doesn't listen to him very well but he tries. He has also been having a relationship with Lisa who is Cali's father's assistant and now Cali's. These two were like the sane together couple of the book :)
Alvin and Jessie Alvin is Cali's father and Jessie has been with the family for 20 years and was like a surrogate mother to Cali.
The suspense part of the book kept me going. I had one of the bad guys figured out from the start but did not see what the overall outcome ended up being. The romance was a seamlessly intertwined with the suspense and you couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next with each.
April 8, 2014
All Cali Stanton has ever dreamed of is being a doctor. So when she’s working with Doctors Without Borders in Africa only one thing can get her to abandon her dream and come home.
Sheri Hayes has created a mystery/suspense, romance novel that will keep you turning the pages. Her potboiler debut novel, Hidden Threat, was released December 30, 2010 in an e-book edition published by The Writer’s Coffee Shop Publishing House.
Cali arrives home to take over at the office at the family owned business while her father recovers from injuries suffered in an accident to find out that not only have there been sabotage attempts concerning the company but there have also been threats to her father’s life.
Security specialists (and brothers) Matthew and Jason Andersen have been hired to enhance security for both the company and the Stanton home. The investigation is in progress, plans have been made to get the deliveries made without further hitches; what about the immediate and strong attraction Cali and Matthew feel towards each other. Romantic involvement between an employer and employee can be…ticklish to say the least.
Sherri Hayes is now anxiously waiting to start editing her second novel, Slave, and has begun writing her third novel, Behind Closed Doors, also a suspense romance .
Sheri Hayes has created a mystery/suspense, romance novel that will keep you turning the pages. Her potboiler debut novel, Hidden Threat, was released December 30, 2010 in an e-book edition published by The Writer’s Coffee Shop Publishing House.
Cali arrives home to take over at the office at the family owned business while her father recovers from injuries suffered in an accident to find out that not only have there been sabotage attempts concerning the company but there have also been threats to her father’s life.
Security specialists (and brothers) Matthew and Jason Andersen have been hired to enhance security for both the company and the Stanton home. The investigation is in progress, plans have been made to get the deliveries made without further hitches; what about the immediate and strong attraction Cali and Matthew feel towards each other. Romantic involvement between an employer and employee can be…ticklish to say the least.
Sherri Hayes is now anxiously waiting to start editing her second novel, Slave, and has begun writing her third novel, Behind Closed Doors, also a suspense romance .
May 3, 2012
I found this book as a good distraction from paranormal romances. Umm, I like PNR, I really do. But sometimes I want to take a break. Give the girl a break :/
So, Cali Stanton is back from Africa. Her daddy is a CEO in Stanton Enterprises, but he got an accident and he asks Cali if she could come and cover his jobs in the company. Cali doesn't know that a few shippings get hijacked, and that the Head of Security thinks that the hijackings are directed to Alvin.
Matthew Andersen (and her brother Jason Andersen) is/are the Head of Security. When bad things happen to Cali, now Matthew thinks he must protect her. So, he decides to move in to Cali's house. Eventually, they fall in love, but with the company is in tantrum, they don't tell each other.
The story was beautiful, but not really different with other adult books. But I love how protective Matthew is, and how hot they are when they're together *fanning myself* Even Alvin, Cali's father, can see that something's going on between his daughter and his chief of security team. Cali is a doctor, and she's strong enough (and tough). She's not afraid with the attempts on her, she appreciates Matthew's help, and I can see through her eyes how lickable (I learned this word from a friend :D) Matthew is.
I gave it a four because as I said before, it's a good distraction.
So, Cali Stanton is back from Africa. Her daddy is a CEO in Stanton Enterprises, but he got an accident and he asks Cali if she could come and cover his jobs in the company. Cali doesn't know that a few shippings get hijacked, and that the Head of Security thinks that the hijackings are directed to Alvin.
Matthew Andersen (and her brother Jason Andersen) is/are the Head of Security. When bad things happen to Cali, now Matthew thinks he must protect her. So, he decides to move in to Cali's house. Eventually, they fall in love, but with the company is in tantrum, they don't tell each other.
The story was beautiful, but not really different with other adult books. But I love how protective Matthew is, and how hot they are when they're together *fanning myself* Even Alvin, Cali's father, can see that something's going on between his daughter and his chief of security team. Cali is a doctor, and she's strong enough (and tough). She's not afraid with the attempts on her, she appreciates Matthew's help, and I can see through her eyes how lickable (I learned this word from a friend :D) Matthew is.
I gave it a four because as I said before, it's a good distraction.
September 18, 2013
That romance itch I had a while ago, it wasn’t satisfied with just one book. So I turned to another romance sitting on my ereader. This time, I grabbed a story that was a little more intense, with a lot more passion. It wasn’t quite clean, but it wasn’t explicit either, think soft-core sex scene.
This story had a lot of tension between Cali and Matthew. They had an instant lust connection, but their actual interactions and relationship had a very slow build. It was a more realistic portayal of a relationship than you find in most romance books.
I loved that the mystery of the threat was the core of the story, not just tacked on behind the romance. It was partially predictable in that I figured out one of the key players very easily, but I didn’t guess the whole threat until the reveal. This was a pleasant surprise.
Overall, this fast paced, tension filled, mystery romance was exactly what I needed to fulfill my romance craving. It’s a quick read, perfect for when the mood strikes.
This story had a lot of tension between Cali and Matthew. They had an instant lust connection, but their actual interactions and relationship had a very slow build. It was a more realistic portayal of a relationship than you find in most romance books.
I loved that the mystery of the threat was the core of the story, not just tacked on behind the romance. It was partially predictable in that I figured out one of the key players very easily, but I didn’t guess the whole threat until the reveal. This was a pleasant surprise.
Overall, this fast paced, tension filled, mystery romance was exactly what I needed to fulfill my romance craving. It’s a quick read, perfect for when the mood strikes.
January 12, 2012
I love when I pick up a book by a "new to me" author and the book far exceeds my expectations. Hidden Threat is just such a book. The mystery is really well planned out. I was kept guessing as to who the culprit was until Cali and Matthew figure it out. That makes a great mystery!
More than the mystery, I loved the love story in this book. Both Cali and Matthew are so attracted to each other from the start, but instead of acting on that attraction, they do everything they can to try to avoid it. This actually forces them to become friends first. With a few "almost" kisses, the sexual tension between them is so scorching that when they do finally do something about it, they burn up the pages. Matthew is such a logical person and I loved his "ah-ha" moment when he realizes what he really feels for Cali. It was very endearing. I was so rooting for their HEA.
I definitely recommend this one. I see a great future for Ms. Hayes and I can't wait to pick up another book written by her.
More than the mystery, I loved the love story in this book. Both Cali and Matthew are so attracted to each other from the start, but instead of acting on that attraction, they do everything they can to try to avoid it. This actually forces them to become friends first. With a few "almost" kisses, the sexual tension between them is so scorching that when they do finally do something about it, they burn up the pages. Matthew is such a logical person and I loved his "ah-ha" moment when he realizes what he really feels for Cali. It was very endearing. I was so rooting for their HEA.
I definitely recommend this one. I see a great future for Ms. Hayes and I can't wait to pick up another book written by her.
February 21, 2016
I don't think I read this book before it was rewritten and content added...so have nothing to compare it to which isn't a bad thing.
This is romantic suspense and there is definitely both of those elements in the book. I'm on the fence about how fast the romance part seemed to happen - seems like it is always so fast and so early in books. Now that isn't to say that Cali and Matthew were in bed early on, but there was an attraction between the two from the moment they met. I think the tension between the two built for a bit before they succumbed to the passion they felt for each other.
As for the suspense portion.....who was stealing the shipments? This had to be an inside job...not to give too much away, but there are several people involved. I figured out one pretty easily....well suspected really. I was a bit surprised by some of the others involved.
All in all an enjoyable book with a few twists and turns (all good) and I really felt like the characters had some depth to them.
This is romantic suspense and there is definitely both of those elements in the book. I'm on the fence about how fast the romance part seemed to happen - seems like it is always so fast and so early in books. Now that isn't to say that Cali and Matthew were in bed early on, but there was an attraction between the two from the moment they met. I think the tension between the two built for a bit before they succumbed to the passion they felt for each other.
As for the suspense portion.....who was stealing the shipments? This had to be an inside job...not to give too much away, but there are several people involved. I figured out one pretty easily....well suspected really. I was a bit surprised by some of the others involved.
All in all an enjoyable book with a few twists and turns (all good) and I really felt like the characters had some depth to them.
March 24, 2016
wow. right from the start I was sucked in like literally I couldn't put it down.
saying that starting right from the start you get smacked in the face with sexual tension between Callie and Mathew like by the 3rd chapter your screaming for them to get together and boy when they do its like beyond wow and then all hell breaks loose
with all hell breaking loose from the threat you see both Callie and Mathew grow closer and like kismet fall in love. this book is not a cliff hanger but a full out happy ever after though the twist you will get are like amazing and well I found myself putting on my sleuth cap to try and figure out the mystery right along with Mathew
I hope there is more to come from this be it all stand alone into a series or such I would like to hear more about the others as well
saying that starting right from the start you get smacked in the face with sexual tension between Callie and Mathew like by the 3rd chapter your screaming for them to get together and boy when they do its like beyond wow and then all hell breaks loose
with all hell breaking loose from the threat you see both Callie and Mathew grow closer and like kismet fall in love. this book is not a cliff hanger but a full out happy ever after though the twist you will get are like amazing and well I found myself putting on my sleuth cap to try and figure out the mystery right along with Mathew
I hope there is more to come from this be it all stand alone into a series or such I would like to hear more about the others as well
April 3, 2016
Hidden threat was a sweet read, a bit dragging but what I loved the most was the build of the relationship between Cali and Matthew. Their feelings were strong when they decided to act on it so it didn't seem superficial.
I figured out the the threat early so the suspens wasn't there but overall I liked the story and I'm definitely reading more of Sherri's work.
I figured out the the threat early so the suspens wasn't there but overall I liked the story and I'm definitely reading more of Sherri's work.
July 12, 2012
I enjoyed this book sooooooooooooooooooo much. Could not put it down. Wanted it to continue, sorry when I finished.
September 2, 2013
Fun read. Got to love a man that wants to keep you safe in bed and out of bed. Just saying
April 8, 2019
Cali Stanton has been called home from Central Africa, where she has been working for the last two years as a doctor. Cali loves her job but she must come back to Chicago to run "Stanton Enterprises, a company that manufactures medical equipment." Her father's health isn't good and he has a long road to recovery so he needs her to come in and run the business for about 9 months.
Matthew Anderson has known Cali's father for several years. He and his firm have been hired on to figure out why the company is being attacked. There have been many shipments that have not been delivered to customers and threats have been made to Mr. Stanton. Now, with him out of the picture, Cali is being sent anonymous pictures of her in Africa and in Chicago. This person seems to be following her. But who is it?
The mystery seems to be the premise behind this story but the romance really takes over and puts the mystery on the back burner. The romance and tension is the point of this book. Up until the last 75 or so the mystery comes to light. So if you planned to read this book for the mystery of it all, then you'll be disappointed. This is a straight up romance, bodice ripper.
I didn't like how there were so many details left out. What is wrong with Cali's father. I seem to recall surgery or a procedure but I don't recall a reason or any discussion of his health... getting better, feeling worse, etc. I feel like details were left out which could have added to the story. Cali is supposed to be a doctor but had I not been told that, I would never have known.
The character development is minimal. Not much is told of any of them. And even less is told of the supporting characters like Jason and Lisa.
Overall, the story is okay. I like the idea of a character being threated so they have a security team come in and then there's a romance. But that really isn't this book. The tension between Cali and Matthew was too much. The lack of details was annoying. I wanted more from this book than the author was prepared to give. While Matthew was protective, this too came off weak. Not much re-readability here. It was a quick, brainless read and that's about it.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Matthew Anderson has known Cali's father for several years. He and his firm have been hired on to figure out why the company is being attacked. There have been many shipments that have not been delivered to customers and threats have been made to Mr. Stanton. Now, with him out of the picture, Cali is being sent anonymous pictures of her in Africa and in Chicago. This person seems to be following her. But who is it?
The mystery seems to be the premise behind this story but the romance really takes over and puts the mystery on the back burner. The romance and tension is the point of this book. Up until the last 75 or so the mystery comes to light. So if you planned to read this book for the mystery of it all, then you'll be disappointed. This is a straight up romance, bodice ripper.
I didn't like how there were so many details left out. What is wrong with Cali's father. I seem to recall surgery or a procedure but I don't recall a reason or any discussion of his health... getting better, feeling worse, etc. I feel like details were left out which could have added to the story. Cali is supposed to be a doctor but had I not been told that, I would never have known.
The character development is minimal. Not much is told of any of them. And even less is told of the supporting characters like Jason and Lisa.
Overall, the story is okay. I like the idea of a character being threated so they have a security team come in and then there's a romance. But that really isn't this book. The tension between Cali and Matthew was too much. The lack of details was annoying. I wanted more from this book than the author was prepared to give. While Matthew was protective, this too came off weak. Not much re-readability here. It was a quick, brainless read and that's about it.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2018
Who is Cali? What happens that she heads to Chicago? Who is Matthew Anderson? What is his job? What does Cali normally do for a living? Where did she fly to Chicago from? Who is Jason? We meet some more interesting people, such as: Jessie, Miranda, Peter, Rachel, Alvin, and Detective Martinez. How do all these various people know one another? What happened in this book as I read meant that I could not stop. I was at Chapter 4 at 4:30 am and done by 6:30 am. Definitely suspenseful in what is going on, mysterious as to who is behind it, and romantic in so far as who all ends up getting together. There is a bit of something for everyone in this book!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
May 24, 2017
Gabi isn't looking for love. At all. She's much more interested in starting a new life, in a new city, away from the overbearing demands of her parents.
Terrence... is even less into the idea of a relationship than Gabi. He's in a good place in his career, focused on receiving a coveted promotion.
Follow along with Gabi and Terrence as they navigate the stages of a relationship that was never meant to go further than a single night. Will they be able to overcome the challenges of family and career to build something that could last?
Unputdownable.... 5 stars
Terrence... is even less into the idea of a relationship than Gabi. He's in a good place in his career, focused on receiving a coveted promotion.
Follow along with Gabi and Terrence as they navigate the stages of a relationship that was never meant to go further than a single night. Will they be able to overcome the challenges of family and career to build something that could last?
Unputdownable.... 5 stars
September 18, 2018
A good, detailed romantic suspense story which doesn’t skimp on any details.
There’s industrial fraud, office romance, attempted murder and so much ch more in this book. The romance element between Matthew and Cali was a real slow burn, and I could hardly bear the angst and longing between the two of them. Sweet torture.
Although the perpetrator of the crimes was who I thought it was, it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. It was well thought out and well written.
This is the first I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading more of her work.
There’s industrial fraud, office romance, attempted murder and so much ch more in this book. The romance element between Matthew and Cali was a real slow burn, and I could hardly bear the angst and longing between the two of them. Sweet torture.
Although the perpetrator of the crimes was who I thought it was, it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. It was well thought out and well written.
This is the first I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading more of her work.
May 26, 2018
I have received this book together with Behind Closed Doors from the same author. Sherri is a new author to me and I find her books well written with amazing flow and the drama feels so real. Happy to read characters that are realistic and to "see" them dealing with their insecurities. Cali and Matthew questioning themselves, holding back due to social stigma and then the secrets...
August 25, 2018
This is a hot story with very hot characters. Between the suspense and the intensity of the characters I actually had to stop reading to cool off. Matthew and Cali will draw you in, while you try to figure out why someone is targeting Cali's Dad and now herself.
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