Captured Innocence

CSA Case Files #1

by Kennedy Layne

When former Marine, Connor Ortega, was ordered into the offices of Crest Security Agency on a Saturday morning, he didn’t expect the latest case to hit so close to home. A submissive has been murdered in a particularly vicious manner and to bring her killer to justice, he must go undercover. Not hard to do considering he’s already part of the BDSM lifestyle.

Lauren Bailey, a local vendor of bejeweled erotic implements, lives vicariously through her clients due to her fear of bondage. When Connor’s dominant side can’t resist trying to ease her anxieties, she accepts his proposal and agrees to his one stipulation…keep things casual.

When the killer sets his sights on Lauren, Connor is forced to rethink their relationship. He has the training it takes to catch a murderer, but does he have the courage to escape his inner demons and capture Lauren’s heart?

Genres: BDSM, Romance, Erotica, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Military Fiction, Mystery

434 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2013

About the author

Kennedy Layne is a USA Today bestselling author. She draws inspiration for her romantic thrillers in part from her not-so-secret second life as a wife of a retired Marine Master Sergeant. He doubles as her critique partner, beta reader, and military consultant. Kennedy also has a deep love for cozy mysteries, thrillers, and basically any book that can keep her guessing until the very end. They live in the Midwest with their menagerie of pets. The loyal dogs and mischievous cats appreciate her writing days as much as she does, usually curled up in front of the fireplace.

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Reviews

[NMmomof4 · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise. The H's friend, Jax.

The Not-So-Good: The mystery foreshadowing. There was hardly any. I wasn't guessing who it was at all because I had no idea. I didn't even really remember who the character was when we revisited them in the end. I think it could've been better with some hints or at least something! Also, I think there could've been a lot more grovel by the H.

The Bad: The ending. I know -- blah, blah, blah, needed more in the end, blah...

Overall: This was underwhelming tbh. I was in the mood for some romantic suspense and the BDSM element of this sounded fun. Sadly, it was just meh.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lauren and Connor's story. Connor is assigned to go undercover at some BDSM clubs after his boss's best friend's wife is murdered because he is part of the scene. He meets Lauren, who is a vendor or BDSM implements that frequently sells her wares at one of the clubs. Sparks fly instantly, but Lauren is not part of the scene and hesitant. While trying to solve the murder, they start a casual affair that quickly gets more serious than either of them wanted. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some big secrets revealed...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Lauren and Connor in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I thought it was kind of slow at some points but I never skimmed.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Connor. I liked him a little better than the h. I understood his past issues, but I wanted him to see the light a little sooner.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Lauren. She was alright. I didn't like her hot and cold, especially at first.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes They both push away (H more) and the H is the main pursuer of the relationship

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. BSDM elements: light bondage, D/s dynamic, spanking, flogging, and anal play

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes Jealousy of other sub (see cheating spoiler below)

Sex scene with OW or OM: No See below

Cheating: Not technically The H does do a scene with OW (off page; to keep his cover after being with the h, but it was said to be not sexual

Separation: Yes They are separated for ~3 weeks, but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time.

Possible Triggers: Yes Violence/murder/kidnapping (off and on page), h has PTSD from childhood experience (on page), and H does a scene with OW (off page and doesn't do anything sexual)

Closure: This ends in an alright place with what I would call a HFN ending they share "ILYs". The epilogue was used to set up another book. I think it definitely could have been better!

Safety: This is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences

- Does Not have cheating (see above)
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have both the h and H pushing away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mcs
- Does Not have a HEA ending

[Gloriamarie · Rating 1 out of 5]

If this is supposed to be a mystery, there are supposed to be clues. Some random person is not supposed to be pulled out of the cast of characters and pinned with the rap with no warning, no foreshadowing. Instead what we have is barely a plot as an excuse to have sexy times that convinced me that BDSM is, in fact, abusive of women. Or at least, it is in this guy's case because clearly he is taking out his anger at his mother's abandonment of him as a child on all other women. No idea why Our Heroine has any interest in this lifestyle. That's never explained. Anyway, this book was a waste of my money and I am asking my e-reader vendor for my money back.

[Denise H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** Wow, what a terrific story !! Connor, Marine now with a security company takes on a murder case, during questioning he meets, Lauren. With Connor and Lauren, the sparks fly. Deeply thought-filled characters, interesting suspenseful tale, and super hot sex and BDSM. Connor finds out her fear of being tied by her wrists, and controls her with his commands alone. He is an awesome "dom". Perfect story of investigation, mystery, romance, decisions, secrets, and intrigue. Fast moving story flows along, and keeps us interested in the tale and the people. Wonderfully written by Kennedy Layne.
I'll be reading more from this author. ENJOY !!!
============================
6-4-2017 I read this two years ago, and still remember it vividly !
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[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had this in my reader for a while but finally got to it. Soooo good. More thoughts to come...

[Theresa · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 35%. Putting aside Connor being a Dom in his sex life, he was a pushy controlling bastard. Lauren was a wimpy pushover who protested too much.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG

I LOVE SERIES LIKE THATTTT

MILITARY DOMINANT MEN

HHEELLOOOO THEREEEE

WHERE WERE U HIDDEN???

THIS FIRST BOOK IS ABOUT CONNOR AND

AMAJSJJSHSJSJSHSHDHJRNDJCNFRI

I NEED ICE CAUSE IM SO HOT

JESUS OF THE LORD

BYE

IM GONNA GO READ THE SECOND PEOPLE

5+++ deserved stars

[The Smutty Kitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

As posted on The Smutty Kitty reviewed by Knotty Kitty

5 out of 5 Licks

There are some books that when you finish them, you just have to write the review, and this baby is certainly one of them. I am new to Kennedy’s work, but LAWD am I an instant fan with this book!! Those that know me well know I’m not a huge romantic suspense reader. But it’s an understatement to say I couldn’t put this book down for anything. Everything around me went on the back burner until I hit the end!! Every single one of the characters in this book just grabs a hold of you, and it isn’t just the main story line. This agency has so many great characters, that I have no doubt that each new book will be truly incredible. This series centers on the Crest Security Agency. An agency filled with former military men and women, most of them being Marines. As the sister of a Marine, I have a little bit of knowledge of the Marine Corps, and you can definitely tell that Kennedy cares about representing them correctly and getting her facts right. Having her own retired Marine might just help that along.. hehehe..

Connor Ortega is an amazingly complex dominant male. He is still reeling from his recent breakup, and is truly not expecting that this case he is currently working to bring him in contact with one woman who will truly shake up his world. Connor’s one of those characters that you just find yourself falling for, and wanting to slap him on the back of the head at the same time. He brings out all of these emotions when dealing with Lauren.

I absolutely love when a writer has a submissive that has a strong back bone, and shows readers that just because a person is submissive it doesn’t mean they are “weak”. Lauren doesn’t give Connor and inch, and he has to be on his toes when dealing with her. Her submission doesn’t come easy to him. He has to not only work to get her to even give him a chance, but also to help her overcome an issue from the past that blocks her.

I love books like this, the ones that make you sad to see them end. These characters literally had me tied down, and would not let go. I wanted to follow them long after their happily ever after. I guess that is the former soap opera fan in me. I’m excited to get my hands on the next installment of this series!! I hope y’all love this book as much as I have, because I honestly think it is a must read!!!

[Debra Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purchased from Amazon July 19, 2015
Finished Reading October 25, 2015

Captured Innocence by Kennedy Layne
Genres: Adult, Crime, Mystery, Romance, Suspense
5 Stars

I COULD NOT put it down!!
I cannot express how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

The writing was absolute perfection.
The story flowed with sheer perfection. All the characters were written in such a way as to make you feel they were real. It was thrilling to say the least.

The CSA team has a murder to solve.
The clues are all there.
A spectacular whodunit wrapped up in mystery, suspense, adult romance and intrigue.

The story literally weaves around you and leaves you breathless with anticipation.

I am so enamored with this book & the writing of Ms. Kennedy Layne that I have added her to my top 5 favorites.
Trust me, as much as I read that is not as easy thing to achieve!!

📝🎵Review Shared on Amazon, Bookbub, Facebook,

[Dana aka ♥Belladonna♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was intrigued by this book because of the whole BDSM lifestyle and the description of the "hero" going undercover into the clubs to solve a murder. This book was a recommendation by Kallypso Masters and I really love her "Masters at Arms" series, so I was curious.

First and foremost, I love Connor Ortega! A group of ex-Military men who were brought together by Gavin Crest to form a security company, who all, of course, have mingled in "the lifestyle". They are very protective and caring, and the similarities to the "Masters at Arms" series was very recognizable. How it differs is the whole investigation into a murder which revolves around the clubs and people/vendors involved.

I love that this book explores this lifestyle with care. It is a great introduction for those who have misconceptions as to how it all works. Connor's simple, but caring and gentle, way of introducing Lauren to what he knew she would love and get immense pleasure from was very effective, and it all seemed very real to me. It was slow, sexy, hot, and steamy! These kind of guys know what they are doing!! And I definitely felt the connection between Connor and Lauren, so I was really pulling for them to get over the fact that their relationship was just a "casual" thing for the two of them!

Connor's friend, Jax, seemed to be a wild one and there was a lot of mystery as to him, his past, and what he was up to..... I will definitely read the next book, Sinful Resurrection (which I didn't even know was out already...yippee)! And then the next book is about Kevin.,... but you don't really get to know much about him from the first book. However, what had me very curious is the character of Gavin Crest..... he is older, in command, and very, very private.....hmmmm.....need to know more about him and there doesn't appear to be a book out yet! Ugh!

So, anyway, if you loved the Masters at Arms series or other series similar, where the BDSM lifestyle is explained in its true form, with a little mystery added in, then this series is for you!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your typical mystery, and in reality I'm not sure how to classify it, all I know is that is kept my attention from start to finish and made me interested in reading more of this series.

We have a murder that takes us into the bdsm world with some really hot military men. Okay, let's start by stating that when the book begins Lauren in a very bad relationship with a total jerk that takes total control of her life and keeps her from family and friends. Learning this helps us better understand why her character is the way she is along with another secret revealed.

Connor strong and commanding is drawn to her when he meets her during his investigation into a death that is tied into the bdsm circle of his and his best friend. Not only are they in need of each other for the case but neither can't deny the attraction that develops.

The book has great detail in all aspects of the story. Not to mention a cast of characters that emit humor at times with some very steamy scenes. This was a wonderful mix of genres and I look forward to reading more about the men and woman in this series.

[Jenny · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. At least it was free.

Like many free novels, this one was in need of an editor. Stilted language, strange word choice, and a missed "your" (I KNOW, RIGHT?!) that, had it been at the beginning, would have resulted in me not finishing the book.

Read this book if: you want to learn how NOT to plot a suspense novel, you have interest in BDSM beyond "50 Shades," or if you have infinite patience for heroines who are Too Stupid to Live.

[Buggy · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was free? That's a plus. Sadly, the main characters gave me whiplash and the urge to hit them with something heavy. Also; you're instead of your?! Sloppy! And where did that bad guy come from? It was like pulling a rabbit out of a hat; tadaaaa! I dunno, the story was alright, I suppose. It got really intense maybe a little too fast and I really don't like pushy Doms. Dude, give her some space!

[Ariel Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it!

I seriously could not put it down. It involves BDSM but it wasn't too graphic for those of us that aren't really into the "scene" and it didn't take away from the storyline at all! I loved the book and would recommend it!

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Never read anything by author before. It was good and would like to read more. Like cherise Sinclair but a lite version.

[Annette Mordec · Rating 1 out of 5]

Book may have been pretty good if the whole team was not into sick sexual practices. Back story was decent, but the sick sexual storyline ruined it. Do not recommend this series. Just plain sick.

[SandyL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sexy ex-military guy - check. Hot dude with black hair and blue eyes - check. Rockin' body and a Dom no less - check! I loved Conner Ortega and Captured Innocence! This was my first book by Kennedy Layne and it definitely won't be my last - there's a whole series to read!!!!

Conner doesn't do love (yeah, yeah, yeah - we read this in every other book.) His mom left him when he was 6, and he hasn't had such great luck with girlfriends either, so he play at the local BDSM club and calls it a day. He meets Lauren Bailey while working a case - she provides specialized jewelry and implements to the BDSM crowd, but is not in the lifestyle herself. She lets Conner know she suffers from claustrophobia due to a childhood incident, and of course he wants to help her with her problems. So, the premise may be a bit overused, but I loved the characters, the story was exciting and suspenseful and there was definitely sexy heat between the MC's! I can't wait to read the next book in this terrific series!

[Sherri Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by a friend of mine. I'm always leery of reading BDSM books because I'm picky. Very picky. This one, however, was right up my alley.

The author did a great job with Lauren's character set up. Her issues, once explained, were believable as was Connor's response. Both of the main characters were easy to relate to I found it hard to put the book down at times.

There is also a mystery to be solved. Sometimes I can figure it out, or have a good idea who did it before it's revealed, but not in this one. I didn't figure out who was behind the murder until the characters did.

Readers were also introduced to the rest of the Crest Security team. Each one of them has their own issues, and I'm curious to see how they will each get their HEAs in future books...especially the owner of the security company, Gavin Crest.

There were some missing words in the text, but nothing too major. It didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the story.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a sexy romantic suspense with some kink.

[Melinda ~ Twinsie Talk · Rating 5 out of 5]

review for audio book
This was my first Kennedy Layne and an audio review. I enjoyed listening to this one. I was pulled in and the narrator was wonderful. This had so many of my favorites Military, BDSM, suspense, and mystery.
Connor and Crest Security Agency is investigating a murder in the BDSM family when Connor is introduced to Lauren. Lauren owns her own business making custom jeweled toys for the BDSM community. Lauren knows how she deserves to be treated and doesn’t put up with crap. Connor is a dominate alpha male he is kind and caring but once he decides something is his he will protect it with his life. I love that Conner is caring and gentle when it comes to Lauren.
Between the chemistry that Conner and Lauren have and the mystery that was building in the story I so enjoyed listening to this and hatted to pause it at any time. The ending was a surprise I had no idea who the suspect was I was way off on that one. I am intrigued to learn about the other guys in this series. I will defiantly be reading more about these men.

[Tammy Faris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kennedy Layne has knocked it out of the park with the first book of her CSA CASE FILES SERIES, CAPTURED INNOCENCE! Ms. Layne's amazing talent is apparent at the start. You are not just a reader...all of a sudden, you are ONE of the gang. I felt like Conner and Lauren and the rest of these awesome (I hate to call them this...characters) were MY friends. Not too many authors are able to do this. I LOVE when, as a reader, I am pulled into the book. With beautifully developed characters and a captivating plot from the very beginning, you will easily be enthralled. There is conflict, suspense, humor, inner demons, romance, and of course...HAWT military men (fanning face). What more could anyone want? My suggestion? Get your copy NOW! I promise that you will NOT be disappointed and that YOU too will be a Kennedy Layne fan!

[Misti · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dnf at 32%...couldn't get into it

[Delta]

Free 06-29-15 (BDSM Romantic Suspense)

http://www.amazon.com/Captured-Innoce...

[Cheryl O'Harney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book seriously loved it ❤️ hot alpha type male ex military & into BDSM

[Jeana · Rating 5 out of 5]

In hooked. Love Crest Investigation.

[J.R. James · Rating 4 out of 5]

CSA is a private crime-fighting collective of mainly ex-military personnel, some of whom live a BDSM lifestyle. When a woman is murdered in a way that suggests a BDSM link, they use their connection with the local BDSM community as they work to uncover the truth.
Overall an entertaining read, though the crime investigation is a little thin on detail, and the perpetrator didn’t even figure as a suspect before the unveiling, so I’m not sure how good these PIs are, but the banter between them is good, and the development of the relationship between the dominant Connor, and the initially reluctant Lauren, is well done, as he helps her overcome her fears and give him her submission. 3.5 stars rounded up.

[tristin wheeler · Rating 3 out of 5]

So much potential

I liked the idea of this book, but to me it just seemed like the author wanted to focus more on the sex scenes, and while I am all for a good steamy book, this one was full of really awkwardly phrased scenes and I found it really hard to get through. Then there is the actual case they are working on, and the parts about that were few and far between, with little detail, and to me it seemed like what the book was actually supposed to be about took the back burner. Overall, I wouldn't read it again, but I also don't think it was a totally awfully written book.

[Ken Finlay · Rating 2 out of 5]

“Captured Innocence”, first in the 'CSA Case Files' series is a by-the-numbers story of BDSM, murder and stalking, with the concentration very much on the BDSM.
A Submissive has been killed and the Crest Security Agency is looking into it at the request of her husband who is the chief suspect.
The investigation leads Conner Ortega (Dom) to sex aid designer Lauren Bailey.
Despite her involvement in the BDSM environment she, because of previous experiences, is not willing to participate … until she does, several times, and at great length!
For a long period the investigative story plays a very small role.
When the killer was finally unmasked I could have cared less.
2 Stars.

[DarcLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is not the blindfold or the cuffs that will bind her and set her free. It is his command.

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book that deals not only with a cold blooded killer but a woman's need to embrace submission and her Doms need to learn to trust and to love. Suspense at its best with a healthy dollop of hot sex scenes and one of my favourite narrators. Off to buy the next in the series. Well done Kennedy keep it up.

[Larry · Rating 3 out of 5]

My ONLY objection is that this story is centered around a lifestyle that just does not interest me. Since at least two of the members of the private detective force are obviously heavily into the lifestyle, I doubt I will read any more of this series. However, IF you are a reader that does enjoy the lifestyle, you will find a very well written story.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The intrigue and interaction with all the people from CSA was most enjoyable. I have not read many book with BDSM and was glad that the author showed BDSM is not as most people believe it to be.