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Cole McGinnis #4
Dirty Deeds
Sheila Pinelli needed to be taken out.
Former cop turned private investigator Cole McGinnis never considered committing murder. But six months ago, when Jae-Min’s blood filled his hands and death came knocking at his lover’s door, killing Sheila Pinelli became a definite possibility.
While Sheila lurks in some hidden corner of Los Angeles, Jae and Cole share a bed, a home, and most of all, happiness. They’d survived Jae’s traditional Korean family disowning him and plan on building a new life—preferably one without the threat of Sheila’s return hanging over them.
Thanks to the Santa Monica police mistakenly releasing Sheila following a loitering arrest, Cole finally gets a lead on Sheila’s whereabouts. That is, until the trail goes crazy and he’s thrown into a tangle of drugs, exotic women, and more death. Regardless of the case going sideways, Cole is determined to find the woman he once loved as a sister and get her out of their lives once and for all.
Former cop turned private investigator Cole McGinnis never considered committing murder. But six months ago, when Jae-Min’s blood filled his hands and death came knocking at his lover’s door, killing Sheila Pinelli became a definite possibility.
While Sheila lurks in some hidden corner of Los Angeles, Jae and Cole share a bed, a home, and most of all, happiness. They’d survived Jae’s traditional Korean family disowning him and plan on building a new life—preferably one without the threat of Sheila’s return hanging over them.
Thanks to the Santa Monica police mistakenly releasing Sheila following a loitering arrest, Cole finally gets a lead on Sheila’s whereabouts. That is, until the trail goes crazy and he’s thrown into a tangle of drugs, exotic women, and more death. Regardless of the case going sideways, Cole is determined to find the woman he once loved as a sister and get her out of their lives once and for all.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2014
37 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Ford
79 books1,890 followersRhys Ford is an award-winning author with several long-running LGBT+ mystery, thriller, paranormal, and urban fantasy series and is a two-time LAMBDA finalist and a multiple Gold and Silver Medalist by the Florida Authors and Publishers President’s Book Awards. She is published by Dreamspinner Press, DSP Publications and Rogue Firebird Press.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
September 1, 2016
Of course I loved this one! I mean, it's Greg Tremblay and Rhys Ford! Greg Tremblay is a MASTER at audiobooks and Rhys was on her game, giving him a kick-ass story. It was blissfully, awesomely perfect.
I swear, Greg Tremblay gives me a book hangover each time I listen to him. The next audiobook after one of his can just never, ever compare! He is at the tippy top of his game, and he shows off his skills here in book #4 of the Cole McGinnis series. I know I always fan-girl all over this narrator but he is just that good! Chills, honestly chills. Why can't all M/M audiobooks be at this level?
Okay, now that my gushing is over, I'll talk a little about the story. For the first time since I started reading this series I knew each character and didn't get anyone confused! <--- huge milestone. I followed the mystery easily, and I loved every second of it. It is amazing how attached I've become to these characters. I feel like they are my little, insane, zany M/M romance second family. Does that make me weird?
I think that Cole and Jae's relationship reached a new level of maturity in this book. They felt in sync, cohesive, and it was lovely to witness. I'm also obsessed with Bobby and what the next book has in store for him *rubs hands gleefully*.
I give up. I don't think I'll ever be able to say anything critical of this series because it has such a huge chunk of my heart. Rhys Ford has made a die-hard fan out of me and Greg Tremblay has ruined me for other narrators. And I love them both for it.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
December 28, 2019
So far this book is my favorite in the series. It was a little less fast-paced and the plot was very easy to follow. It also had less blood and gore...though there was still some.
Cole and Jae finally took the next step in their relationship...at least this was what it felt like to me. They were solid....and reading how far they have come together, was a beautiful thing.
We also get an awesome scene with Cole bottoming for Jae for the first time. I have been waiting for that to happen since book 1 !!! It was HOT !!!
I loved the little reference to Sam, Jory, Aaron, and Duncan. Mary Calmes is one of my favorite authors and Sam and Jory are my number one favorite mm couple. It was a very nice surprise to see their names come by.
I have already finished book 5, which is Bobby and Ichy's story, so I only have one more book about Cole and Jae to go. I really hope there will be some answers about Ben. I really want to know, what drove the man to madness.
Cole and Jae finally took the next step in their relationship...at least this was what it felt like to me. They were solid....and reading how far they have come together, was a beautiful thing.
We also get an awesome scene with Cole bottoming for Jae for the first time. I have been waiting for that to happen since book 1 !!! It was HOT !!!
I loved the little reference to Sam, Jory, Aaron, and Duncan. Mary Calmes is one of my favorite authors and Sam and Jory are my number one favorite mm couple. It was a very nice surprise to see their names come by.
I have already finished book 5, which is Bobby and Ichy's story, so I only have one more book about Cole and Jae to go. I really hope there will be some answers about Ben. I really want to know, what drove the man to madness.
April 30, 2018
Loved it! Loved It!
What a crazy mystery ride, full of adventures and lots of laughter.
I couldn't stop listening to the audio. When i started i thought i would listen to it in bits, but nope i couldn't part with Greg and the Story.
I love Rhys Ford's writing so much, the story just flows and it is engaging.
Cole and Jae are great together, their love is still going strong and Cole bottoming for Jae....
I need to know more about Ben and i hope we get to know more or else i am going to be pissed.
Once again Greg Tremblay 😘made my Sunday Great again😎😉.
What a crazy mystery ride, full of adventures and lots of laughter.
I couldn't stop listening to the audio. When i started i thought i would listen to it in bits, but nope i couldn't part with Greg and the Story.
I love Rhys Ford's writing so much, the story just flows and it is engaging.
Cole and Jae are great together, their love is still going strong and Cole bottoming for Jae....
I need to know more about Ben and i hope we get to know more or else i am going to be pissed.
Once again Greg Tremblay 😘made my Sunday Great again😎😉.
March 29, 2014
I've said this before, but what I really love about reading a series is being able to follow along on a journey between characters, especially in a romance between 2 MC's. This is the fourth installment of the Cole McGinnis series and it's been a long, hard road for Cole & Jae. Book 4 was...a delight. It was so great to be able to finally see them both HAPPY and free to love one another.
What this series excels at is telling a layered mystery, wrought with personal angst, and highlighting a couple trying to find their way to a HEA despite multiple obstacles. That's been the formula for 3 books. What Dirty Deeds brought to the table was a "light at the end of the tunnel" element...Jae & Cole CAN be happy...they CAN be committed...they CAN be safe together. And though I don't doubt there's more trouble in their future, its just nice to see and feel and witness the progress.
I loved Cole in this book. He's a sap. I think the previous book, Dirty Laundry, really brought that home for me. ha! And I've come to love that about him. All he does, he does for the care and protection of those he loves: Jae, Claudia, his family, his friends. He is such a hero in my mind. And though I was screaming at him at times, "Please let it go. Please don't go after Sheila. Please don't get hurt.", I fell for him harder every time he did go out to do what he felt he needed to to keep everyone safe.
What surprised me was how much I also came to love Jae as well. Jae, more supportive, more affectionate, more sure of himself and his relationship w/ Cole...I love this side of him! It felt like a part of my heart was unlocked as I watched HIS heart unlock...with his shy smiles and his cooking Korean meals and the small and subtle signs that they just KNOW each other. *sigh*
The mystery element of book 4 was, I felt, much less prominent than in the prior 3 books and I was ok with that. There weren't a ton of characters and confusions as I had kinda struggled with in the past. If you're a fan of the series, I think you're really going to enjoy where Rhys Ford has taken this couple and this series. I feel this is the strongest of the books to date and I was so satisfied and entertained! (PS - and I LOVED the ending...can't wait to see how THAT plays out! ha!)
September 9, 2015
Written August 25, 2014
4.3 Strong Shiny Stars - OMG, this was a great end to a pleasant sweet romantic crime series
Book #4
As A friend just told me I've been on a audiobook binge this last week. I'm almost exhausted!!. Time to read a book instead.
Big applause for a fantastic narration. Greg Tremblay made this books to a wonderful adventure, a journey, a train I'm glad I jumped on. There will be more Rhys Ford books in the future.
I have to collect myself now and through a few lines write a summary of my impressions later tonight.
***********************************************************
...later
I think I will leave it like this. I may had sayed all that is to say in my reviews for part #1 - #3 about these lovely characters, this great narrater and how much I liked it all.
I have learned a little something about American Koreans, and their manners and customs of modern day LA as well. Interesting topics, often with gay theme, made these crime oarts good and exciting to read as well.
Finally, a great love in your life, good friends and a fun job usually makes life good. So also for Cole.
I LIKE - Yeah! This was a great journey
***********************************************************
My review so far for Rhys Ford's Cole McGinnis series:
• #1.0 - Dirty Kiss (3.5 stars)
• #2.0 - Dirty Secret (4 stars)
• #2.5 - Dirty Afternoon (4.5 stars) mini shortie
• #3.0 - Dirty Laundry (4.2 stars)
• #3.5 - Dirty Sweets (2.5 stars) mini shortie
• #3.6 - Dirty Day (...stars) mini shortie
• #4.0 - Dirty Deeds (4.3 stars)
Contemporary crime M/M set in Los Angeles about
Cole Kenjiro McGinnis, an ex-cop and PI,
and the younger U.S. Korean photographer Kim Jae-Min
*******
Rhys Ford's Cole McGinnis series:
...and later
There are some fun stuff, shorties etc on the authors web page http://rhysford.com.
4.3 Strong Shiny Stars - OMG, this was a great end to a pleasant sweet romantic crime series
Book #4
As A friend just told me I've been on a audiobook binge this last week. I'm almost exhausted!!. Time to read a book instead.
Big applause for a fantastic narration. Greg Tremblay made this books to a wonderful adventure, a journey, a train I'm glad I jumped on. There will be more Rhys Ford books in the future.
***********************************************************
...later
I think I will leave it like this. I may had sayed all that is to say in my reviews for part #1 - #3 about these lovely characters, this great narrater and how much I liked it all.
I have learned a little something about American Koreans, and their manners and customs of modern day LA as well. Interesting topics, often with gay theme, made these crime oarts good and exciting to read as well.
Finally, a great love in your life, good friends and a fun job usually makes life good. So also for Cole.
I LIKE - Yeah! This was a great journey
***********************************************************
My review so far for Rhys Ford's Cole McGinnis series:
• #1.0 - Dirty Kiss (3.5 stars)
• #2.0 - Dirty Secret (4 stars)
• #2.5 - Dirty Afternoon (4.5 stars) mini shortie
• #3.0 - Dirty Laundry (4.2 stars)
• #3.5 - Dirty Sweets (2.5 stars) mini shortie
• #3.6 - Dirty Day (...stars) mini shortie
• #4.0 - Dirty Deeds (4.3 stars)
Contemporary crime M/M set in Los Angeles about
Cole Kenjiro McGinnis, an ex-cop and PI,
and the younger U.S. Korean photographer Kim Jae-Min
*******
Rhys Ford's Cole McGinnis series:
...and later
There are some fun stuff, shorties etc on the authors web page http://rhysford.com.
October 13, 2018
I liked this one a lot. Cole and Jae are turning out to be a great couple and I really like them together now. Cole is still my favorite and he deserves a happy life. And him bottoming for Jae? Beautiful. Such a lovely and hot scene.
I was hoping Shelia would meet a different ending...maybe she will in the future. And I still want to know what was going on with Ben. I hope we find out eventually.
But the ending? Well shit...gotta start the next one right away.
I was hoping Shelia would meet a different ending...maybe she will in the future. And I still want to know what was going on with Ben. I hope we find out eventually.
But the ending? Well shit...gotta start the next one right away.
June 6, 2016
I adore these two!
I loved finally here more about Ben, even though everything was still very vague. I also loved the epilogue, totally saw that coming and am super duper excited to see how that plays out.
(I still have a hard on for Greg Tremblay's narration!! Like a big one!)
I loved finally here more about Ben, even though everything was still very vague. I also loved the epilogue, totally saw that coming and am super duper excited to see how that plays out.
(I still have a hard on for Greg Tremblay's narration!! Like a big one!)
April 4, 2014
I was recently introduced to this series when asked if I wanted to review an ARC of Dirty Deeds. I hadn’t read any of the books in the series so I thought I would give it a shot. I mean, I already knew I liked Rhys Ford’s books so why not? Well, I didn’t like this series.
I loved it!
I knew halfway through the first book Dirty Kiss that this series would end up being my favorite of hers. Just the fact that I never figured out whodunit in any of the books made sure that this series would go down as one of my favorites, not just of her books, but of all the series I have read in this genre. I was surprised by each one of the first three books. The shock value alone was worth a five heart rating.
If you liked the first three books in this series then you’re in for a treat with Dirty Deeds. But I must warn you, this book is a little different. Do not expect the standard whodunit like the earlier books, ‘cause it’s not in this one. Instead we get what I felt was some much needed closure on a few of the plot lines throughout the series.
In Dirty Deeds, Cole is fighting his past in order to protect his future. He races against time to find the one from his past who has the potential to end his life with Jae. Sheila is out there somewhere and she is dangerous. She threatens everything that Cole has fought for in the past year since he met Jae. He’ll be damned if he’s going to let her get away with what she’s done. He’s a man on a mission. It’s a potential suicide mission but that’s not going to stop him. He’s not going to let history repeat itself.
One of the things I loved most about this book was seeing Cole and Jae settled comfortably in their relationship. They’ve been together for the better part of a year and it has been six months since Jae was almost taken from Cole. Jae has really blossomed in the past six months. He laughs now and shows more aggression when interacting with Cole. It was nice to see him speaking up and demanding what he needs. Verra, verra hot!
Cole… gah! What can I say about Cole? This is a man who loves with a fierceness that I have yet to see in any other character ever. He loves those close to him with more than just his heart. He loves them with his soul. The strength of his character is something to be admired. He’s not afraid to feel and to let others see him feeling. A fierce protector, he will do anything to make sure that those he loves are safe and happy.
I think I say this on every review I write for a Rhys Ford book but it bears repeating. Rhys Ford is an outstanding writer. She writes so descriptively that I get pulled into whatever book I’m reading of hers every time. Every damned time. I feel like I’m right there next to them, living what they’re living. I can see every last detail and feel every last emotion. Her characters are so fleshed out it feels like I know them personally in real life.
And that brings me to a very special character of hers. A character that I would love to see more of.
Claudia
Claudia is the most well written character I have ever read. I wish I could tell you what it is about her that just makes me love her so much. Such an amazing woman! I wish she was real so I could know her. I could recommend this series just for her alone. If you read this series for nothing else, read it for Claudia. I feel richer just from having met her.
Between Cole, Jae-Min, Mike, Bobby, Claudia and the rest of this wonderful cast of characters, you can’t go wrong with this series. I give this the highest of recommendations. Read it, people. You won’t be sorry.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2014
This review can be found at The Blogger Girls review site.
4.5 stars
Cole and Jae are finally happy. In their one year together, they’ve managed to survive some pretty dangerous situations including the horrifying moment when Jae was shot by Sheila Pinelli. Now, six months after Jae’s recovery, their relationship is stronger than ever. When Cole gets a call about Sheila being arrested then let go, he can’t leave things alone any longer not when the police are asking for his help. What Cole hoped would be a case not filled with violence turns deadly when everywhere he investigates leads to murder. The case is far from easy, though, especially when it forces him to finally come to terms with his past and the one thing he wants to forget: Ben.
Alright, I’m going to admit it. I’m biased when it comes to this series. Cole and Jae are one of my favorite couples because of three reasons 1) Cole is pretty emotionally fucked up; 2) Jae is pretty emotionally fucked up; and 3) Cole and Jae together?! SMOKIN’ HOT. But they also balance each other out so they’re… well, less emotionally fucked up. LOL.
In this book, Cole is his usual hero-self. He can’t seem to let go of that instinct to help others… even those who’ve fucked him over. Jae is still snarky but he’s softer in this one. He no longer has any walls up when it comes to Cole so their relationship is smoother now. They’re finally in that place where there’s nothing threatening their bond… well, except Sheila LOL. Still, this book is sweeter, it’s more raw but at the same time, I felt like the connection between Jae and Cole was more intense.
This is going to sound silly and keep in mind, this is a personal issue but my only issue with Dirty Deeds was that Cole ‘looked’ more at other guys. Silly, right?! But I just didn’t feel like the couple of times he noticed other guys and commented about them (outside of Bobby’s company, of course) was in line with the character I remember Cole from previous books. Granted, it’s been months since my last Cole & Jae read so maybe I blocked it from my memory if he’s always mentioned stuff like that but it just felt strange and odd coming from Cole. I KNOW IT’S SILLY but it was noticeable to me and I couldn’t stop my flash of jealousy on behalf of Jae LMAO.
Even with that, though, I ADORED this book. Hell, I even read ALL the sex (this coming from the woman who normally skims a majority of it) but, Jesus! Cole & Jae. Fuck! They’re just so hot! I couldn’t get enough. As usual, I loved the secondary characters and I loved the mystery. The situations Cole kept getting into kept me on the edge of my seat and left me guessing just what would happen next. And with the way this book ended, I’m eager to get my hands on the next book because DAMNIT! It’s about time Bobby got his book! And Ichi! (I love me some Ichiro!)
4.5 stars
Cole and Jae are finally happy. In their one year together, they’ve managed to survive some pretty dangerous situations including the horrifying moment when Jae was shot by Sheila Pinelli. Now, six months after Jae’s recovery, their relationship is stronger than ever. When Cole gets a call about Sheila being arrested then let go, he can’t leave things alone any longer not when the police are asking for his help. What Cole hoped would be a case not filled with violence turns deadly when everywhere he investigates leads to murder. The case is far from easy, though, especially when it forces him to finally come to terms with his past and the one thing he wants to forget: Ben.
Alright, I’m going to admit it. I’m biased when it comes to this series. Cole and Jae are one of my favorite couples because of three reasons 1) Cole is pretty emotionally fucked up; 2) Jae is pretty emotionally fucked up; and 3) Cole and Jae together?! SMOKIN’ HOT. But they also balance each other out so they’re… well, less emotionally fucked up. LOL.
In this book, Cole is his usual hero-self. He can’t seem to let go of that instinct to help others… even those who’ve fucked him over. Jae is still snarky but he’s softer in this one. He no longer has any walls up when it comes to Cole so their relationship is smoother now. They’re finally in that place where there’s nothing threatening their bond… well, except Sheila LOL. Still, this book is sweeter, it’s more raw but at the same time, I felt like the connection between Jae and Cole was more intense.
This is going to sound silly and keep in mind, this is a personal issue but my only issue with Dirty Deeds was that Cole ‘looked’ more at other guys. Silly, right?! But I just didn’t feel like the couple of times he noticed other guys and commented about them (outside of Bobby’s company, of course) was in line with the character I remember Cole from previous books. Granted, it’s been months since my last Cole & Jae read so maybe I blocked it from my memory if he’s always mentioned stuff like that but it just felt strange and odd coming from Cole. I KNOW IT’S SILLY but it was noticeable to me and I couldn’t stop my flash of jealousy on behalf of Jae LMAO.
Even with that, though, I ADORED this book. Hell, I even read ALL the sex (this coming from the woman who normally skims a majority of it) but, Jesus! Cole & Jae. Fuck! They’re just so hot! I couldn’t get enough. As usual, I loved the secondary characters and I loved the mystery. The situations Cole kept getting into kept me on the edge of my seat and left me guessing just what would happen next. And with the way this book ended, I’m eager to get my hands on the next book because DAMNIT! It’s about time Bobby got his book! And Ichi! (I love me some Ichiro!)
June 26, 2022
El pasado de Cole regresa para hacerlo enfrentar sus miedos mas profundos, la muerte de su pareja en el trabajo y de su pareja en la vida. Pero el esta decidido a enfrentar a su pasado, con el apoyo de Jae, y su familia. El problema es que no sabe que va a encontrar y si realmente tiene la fuerza necesaria para enfrentarlo y superarlo. Su vida ahora es mucho mas estable y tranquila, y si revolver el pasado daña su presente? Podra realmente enfrentar lo que paso hace tanto tiempo y superarlo? Podra volver a vivir su vida junto a Jae sin la culpa por Rick o Ben? Podra saber porque Sheila lo queria muerto? Podra ayudarla con su adiccion? Son muchas de las preguntas que Cole debera resolver para poder tener su conciencia tranquila y vivir su nueva vida plenamente.
El libro le falta mucho de la accion y diversion de los anteriores, y si esperaba drama, pero el drama tambien es como soso, las razones por las que ella decide dispararle son demasiado superficiales. Ademas del tema de las transgenero asiaticas que vienen al pais para costearse la operacion de cambio de genero a cambio de prostituirse? Habia tanto que podian sacarle a esa linea de trama y me parecio que solo fue un relleno para meter a ese par de personajes que no tenian otra razon de ser. Quizas porque ya son 4 libros, esperaba que hubiera un poco mas de familia, que aparecia mas Matt o Scarlet, ya que aqui solo vemos a Claudia (que en si es un gran personaje), a Ichiro y un poquitito a Bobby, lo que causa que la trama se vuelva plana y con pocos momentos interesantes o divertidos.
Hasta ahora, el primer libro fue el que mas me ha llamado la atencion, solo espero que los ultimos 2 porfin aclaren muchas de las dudas del pasado de Cole y realmente nos traiga no solo momento realmente dramaticos, sino tambien momentos divertidos y romanticos, entre ellos y la familia.
El libro le falta mucho de la accion y diversion de los anteriores, y si esperaba drama, pero el drama tambien es como soso, las razones por las que ella decide dispararle son demasiado superficiales. Ademas del tema de las transgenero asiaticas que vienen al pais para costearse la operacion de cambio de genero a cambio de prostituirse? Habia tanto que podian sacarle a esa linea de trama y me parecio que solo fue un relleno para meter a ese par de personajes que no tenian otra razon de ser. Quizas porque ya son 4 libros, esperaba que hubiera un poco mas de familia, que aparecia mas Matt o Scarlet, ya que aqui solo vemos a Claudia (que en si es un gran personaje), a Ichiro y un poquitito a Bobby, lo que causa que la trama se vuelva plana y con pocos momentos interesantes o divertidos.
Hasta ahora, el primer libro fue el que mas me ha llamado la atencion, solo espero que los ultimos 2 porfin aclaren muchas de las dudas del pasado de Cole y realmente nos traiga no solo momento realmente dramaticos, sino tambien momentos divertidos y romanticos, entre ellos y la familia.
April 13, 2017
It's been six months since Cole almost lost Jae and every thing would be perfect if only the shooter was behind bars. Wry, dry, sarcastic, kinda an asshole - Cole doesn't really take himself too seriously. Instead, what he does take very seriously is his love for Jae and his need to keep him safe. The latest entry to this series was a great look at him, his blossoming relationship with Jae, and his evolving developments with his surrogate family and his two brothers.
Despite Cole's struggles with feeling helpless, I felt this was the most fun read so far. It warmed my heart seeing Jae finally opening up, embracing his life with Cole, being more confident and happy. The snark and humor was fantastic and the smex as always, did not disappoint.
This was also probably the most romantic yet and Greg Tremblay continues to be a freakin narrative genius. This was definitely a winner!
Despite Cole's struggles with feeling helpless, I felt this was the most fun read so far. It warmed my heart seeing Jae finally opening up, embracing his life with Cole, being more confident and happy. The snark and humor was fantastic and the smex as always, did not disappoint.
This was also probably the most romantic yet and Greg Tremblay continues to be a freakin narrative genius. This was definitely a winner!
August 26, 2014
I have had a great time with this series and Dirty Deeds is a nice culmination to it all (I know, there is one more book, but that is months away). The author has built a great series using some solid building block found in each book:
Funny opening scene. In this one, Cole finds his mouth in dangerously close proximity to cock poking out of green velour pants.
Cole being a magnet for trouble. I am pretty sure that he has been arrested in each book.
Guns and bullets. Someone's always getting shot. Being a former cop and a victim of gun violence, Cole has a complicated relationship with his firearms. In this book, he and his guns go into family therapy.
Ghosts from the past. In this one, the ghost is a meth-addicted widow of his former LAPD partner. Yeah, lots of history there.
Transgender characters. They have been in every book and well portrayed.
Multi-layered mystery. Dirty Deeds was actually the most straightforward of the 4 books, but still well constructed.
Excellent side characters. Probably some of the best side characters, ones you want to know better. We all love Bobby, the twink loving ex-cop who knocks Cole around in boxing ring. There are many other minor characters that I would love to know more about, Claudia, Cole's trusty assistant. Maddy, Cole's kick-ass double amputee sister-in-law. And Ichi, Cole's newly found ink-loving half brother.
M/M book references. I'm not sure if this happens in all the books, but this book had a Sam & Jory Mary Calmes reference. And another book talked about driving by the Cloak & Dagger bookstore in Pasadena. I love this meta stuff. Almost exciting as a Green Acres/Beverly Hillbillies crossover episode.
And with any good series, there is a developing relationship. This being the 4th book, Cole & Jae are pretty solid and have moved past many early relationship hurdles. They have good chemistry and hot sex. Still, I have a confession. As great as most of the characters in these books are, Jae is not that compelling to me. I love Cole and his self deprecating humor. I love his devotion to Jae. I think Cole and Jae are hot together and . I like Jae, mostly out of respect to Cole.
Overall, Dirty Deeds has left me in a happy place and I look forward to Bobby's story later this year.
Bonus - Santa Monica is featured! Even better, homeless transients in Santa Monica. Yeah, this author did her research.
Funny opening scene. In this one, Cole finds his mouth in dangerously close proximity to cock poking out of green velour pants.
Cole being a magnet for trouble. I am pretty sure that he has been arrested in each book.
Guns and bullets. Someone's always getting shot. Being a former cop and a victim of gun violence, Cole has a complicated relationship with his firearms. In this book, he and his guns go into family therapy.
Ghosts from the past. In this one, the ghost is a meth-addicted widow of his former LAPD partner. Yeah, lots of history there.
Transgender characters. They have been in every book and well portrayed.
Multi-layered mystery. Dirty Deeds was actually the most straightforward of the 4 books, but still well constructed.
Excellent side characters. Probably some of the best side characters, ones you want to know better. We all love Bobby, the twink loving ex-cop who knocks Cole around in boxing ring. There are many other minor characters that I would love to know more about, Claudia, Cole's trusty assistant. Maddy, Cole's kick-ass double amputee sister-in-law. And Ichi, Cole's newly found ink-loving half brother.
M/M book references. I'm not sure if this happens in all the books, but this book had a Sam & Jory Mary Calmes reference. And another book talked about driving by the Cloak & Dagger bookstore in Pasadena. I love this meta stuff. Almost exciting as a Green Acres/Beverly Hillbillies crossover episode.
And with any good series, there is a developing relationship. This being the 4th book, Cole & Jae are pretty solid and have moved past many early relationship hurdles. They have good chemistry and hot sex. Still, I have a confession. As great as most of the characters in these books are, Jae is not that compelling to me. I love Cole and his self deprecating humor. I love his devotion to Jae. I think Cole and Jae are hot together and . I like Jae, mostly out of respect to Cole.
Overall, Dirty Deeds has left me in a happy place and I look forward to Bobby's story later this year.
Bonus - Santa Monica is featured! Even better, homeless transients in Santa Monica. Yeah, this author did her research.
July 27, 2017
This one was cool. I can finally say I didn't cry during this book. Cole and Jae relationships continue to grow and I love it. Can someone explain to me what happened to Maddie's legs. I don't recall what they said happened. I kinda like Ichrin, better than Mike I'm just saying. Bobby and little bro together saw that coming a mile away.
September 29, 2016
Damn you Rhys Ford, damn you all to hell!
This series is addictive! Cole and Jae are fantastic MCs, the supporting characters are GREAT and the pace is realistic. However there was NO reason to put Jae and Cole further through the ringer, really! But you did Rhys Ford, and these two DESERVE their happy ending, I'm telling you, let them have their happy ending!!!
... Okay, I'm BEGGING you, let them have their happy ending, these two have been through enough, and are almost out on the other side, happier and healthier. Jae and Cole deserve a happy ending!!
*phew* glad I got that off my chest, I needed that.
So Cole's old friend Sheila (thank you, for making it a name I could remember this time) shot Jae in the end of the last book; 6 months later she is DAMN close to being found, but unfortunately slips through the cracks.
When Cole is sleuthing around looking for her, he literally lands in the middle of a case. Someone takes out an apartment of transgender Asians, and soon Cole is deputized to help the police (Wong and O'Byrne) figure out what the hell is going on.
It turns out that trafficking, drugs and prostitution are more issues you can find in the Chabol families (these people and their double standards are disgusting - see my review of book 2 for my rant on this subject), but that is not all.
The poor girls who lost their lives, work in a salon, but they are not only salon workers, and Sheila is not the only person from Cole's past who's coming out of the woodworks.
It is clear that Rhys Ford is working her way towards a GRAND finale, and that we will get the answers to the mystery of Ben's actions, but the wait is killing me!
While Cole is trying not to get shot (again) during the case; on the homefront he is happy! Jae is finally free of his horrible family, and they are slowly, but steadily settling into a FANTASTIC, open (not with other people, but OUT in the open), loving relationship.
I love Cole and Jae, but the rest of the characters in this series are great as well! Scarlet, Bobby, Ichi and Claudia are fabulous, and great supporters of Cole and Jae (I had a few issues with Mike, but he is there as well.)
This book was -like the rest of the series- a fun, well-paced mystery, with HOT smexy times and great characters.
AND (I really hope I'm not culturally insensitive here, and if I am, I apologize) the names in this one were easier to follow, since there were more western sounding names, which made the book/mystery easier to get through for me.
This one ends in a cliffy (not with the mystery though), and there is no question that I will read Ichi and Bobby's story. This series have been a great surprise!
ALSO: I really really need to know what happened with Ben!
But all in all; fantastic book.
This series is addictive! Cole and Jae are fantastic MCs, the supporting characters are GREAT and the pace is realistic. However there was NO reason to put Jae and Cole further through the ringer, really! But you did Rhys Ford, and these two DESERVE their happy ending, I'm telling you, let them have their happy ending!!!
... Okay, I'm BEGGING you, let them have their happy ending, these two have been through enough, and are almost out on the other side, happier and healthier. Jae and Cole deserve a happy ending!!
*phew* glad I got that off my chest, I needed that.
So Cole's old friend Sheila (thank you, for making it a name I could remember this time) shot Jae in the end of the last book; 6 months later she is DAMN close to being found, but unfortunately slips through the cracks.
When Cole is sleuthing around looking for her, he literally lands in the middle of a case. Someone takes out an apartment of transgender Asians, and soon Cole is deputized to help the police (Wong and O'Byrne) figure out what the hell is going on.
It turns out that trafficking, drugs and prostitution are more issues you can find in the Chabol families (these people and their double standards are disgusting - see my review of book 2 for my rant on this subject), but that is not all.
The poor girls who lost their lives, work in a salon, but they are not only salon workers, and Sheila is not the only person from Cole's past who's coming out of the woodworks.
It is clear that Rhys Ford is working her way towards a GRAND finale, and that we will get the answers to the mystery of Ben's actions, but the wait is killing me!
While Cole is trying not to get shot (again) during the case; on the homefront he is happy! Jae is finally free of his horrible family, and they are slowly, but steadily settling into a FANTASTIC, open (not with other people, but OUT in the open), loving relationship.
I love Cole and Jae, but the rest of the characters in this series are great as well! Scarlet, Bobby, Ichi and Claudia are fabulous, and great supporters of Cole and Jae (I had a few issues with Mike, but he is there as well.)
This book was -like the rest of the series- a fun, well-paced mystery, with HOT smexy times and great characters.
AND (I really hope I'm not culturally insensitive here, and if I am, I apologize) the names in this one were easier to follow, since there were more western sounding names, which made the book/mystery easier to get through for me.
This one ends in a cliffy (not with the mystery though), and there is no question that I will read Ichi and Bobby's story. This series have been a great surprise!
ALSO: I really really need to know what happened with Ben!
But all in all; fantastic book.
August 27, 2018
**** 5 Dirty stars ****
Audio edition, narrator Greg Tremblay
8 hours 5 minutes
Overall: 5
Performance: 5
Story: 5
Performance: 5
Story: 5
#1 Dirty Kiss
#2 Dirty Secret
#2.1 Interview with Kim Jae-Min (read after Dirty Secret)
An interview by Rhys on her homepage. Link
#2.2 Dirty Afternoon with Bobby Dawson (read before Dirty Laundry)
An interview by Rhys on her homepage. Link
#3 Dirty Laundry
#3.5 Dirty Sweets
Link
#3.6 Dirty Day (short story from LYLBTB Advent Event 2013)
Link
#3.8 Dirty Deeds interview: Catching up with Cole McGinnis (read before Dirty Deeds)
Link
#3.9 Dirty Deeds interview with Mike and Maddy McGinnis. (During release of Dirty Deeds)
Link
#4 Dirty Deeds
#4.5 Dirty Minds (short story done for the Dirty Deeds tour)
Link
#5 Down and Dirty
Bobby and Ichi's story.
#6 Dirty Heart
August 25, 2014
Oh my. Oh. My.
I love this series, I love Cole, I love Jae, I really love Bobby and I love Rhys Ford for giving us these guys. I would be remiss if I didn't add the love for Greg Tremblay too because he is Cole McGinnis. When he reads Cole's really emotional scenes I get all kinds of verklempt and I can't stop listening. When he reads Cole's misadventures and snarky comments I laugh out loud and I can't stop listening. When he reads Cole and Jae's interactions, deliciously dirty and otherwise I can feel the love between the characters.
Rhys Ford's words and Greg Tremblay's voice are a match made in heaven.
I love this series, I love Cole, I love Jae, I really love Bobby and I love Rhys Ford for giving us these guys. I would be remiss if I didn't add the love for Greg Tremblay too because he is Cole McGinnis. When he reads Cole's really emotional scenes I get all kinds of verklempt and I can't stop listening. When he reads Cole's misadventures and snarky comments I laugh out loud and I can't stop listening. When he reads Cole and Jae's interactions, deliciously dirty and otherwise I can feel the love between the characters.
Rhys Ford's words and Greg Tremblay's voice are a match made in heaven.
August 16, 2019
Let's not call this a review...it's more of a rating with a comment...
And let's just say it's same old, same old...I'm loving it and the story's every bit as good as I remember and Greg Tremblay's just making it all the better and even more enjoyable than I remembered...so in a nutshell...I'm lovin' it!!!
Sept. 12/18 - Just adding another comment to the rating...here I am carrying on with my Cole McGinnis marathon but this time I'm just leave a little music here because this book title...well of any book in this series this one begs for a song...
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap by AC/DC come on admit it you saw that one coming.
And let's just say it's same old, same old...I'm loving it and the story's every bit as good as I remember and Greg Tremblay's just making it all the better and even more enjoyable than I remembered...so in a nutshell...I'm lovin' it!!!
Sept. 12/18 - Just adding another comment to the rating...here I am carrying on with my Cole McGinnis marathon but this time I'm just leave a little music here because this book title...well of any book in this series this one begs for a song...
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap by AC/DC come on admit it you saw that one coming.
September 26, 2019
September 2019
it does not matter how often I read this series, Cole and Jae are always one of my favorite couples. I love how their love for each other shows through any action
and I love Jae for saying (ok, it is not a direct quote but the sentiment is true):
"If he would not do this, he would not be whom I fell in love with"
October 2016
Just re-read the whole series and can't get enough of these two.
April2016
Love this series! Cole and Jae are one of my favorite couples .... ever!
it does not matter how often I read this series, Cole and Jae are always one of my favorite couples. I love how their love for each other shows through any action
and I love Jae for saying (ok, it is not a direct quote but the sentiment is true):
"If he would not do this, he would not be whom I fell in love with"
October 2016
Just re-read the whole series and can't get enough of these two.
April2016
Love this series! Cole and Jae are one of my favorite couples .... ever!
May 4, 2016
“Do you promise this is your last white rabbit?” Jae’s thin smile was enough to ease some of my fear.
“It’s a windmill, remember? Quixote, not Alice.” I kissed him quickly, jerking back when his teeth nearly nipped my nose.
“No, I think this time, you are Alice.” Jae broke from my hold, standing in one fluid, liquid movement. “The windmills were real, even if Quixote thought they were giants. The white rabbit—that was all in Alice’s head. This thing you have with Sheila, you can’t leave it alone even if it’s not real. If that’s not a white rabbit, Cole-ah, then I don’t know what is.”
Confronting your past can hurt like a bitch. Especially when that past has shown up toting a gun and shooting the man you love. And while Jae survived the violent collision of present and past, Cole can’t just let what Sheila did lie. He might not know how to find her, but that has never stopped him before. He isn’t losing Jae to anyone or anything, not if he can help it. Cole and Jae have finally started to see a future for themselves, the past is just going to have to let go. Right after Cole deals with the crazy chick with one hell of a violent grudge.
It must be his lucky day because a chance arrest (and release) of Sheila gives Cole the needed clue to move forward. But, as this is Cole McGinnis, lady luck comes courting with bullets and rapidly increasing body counts. Now he is going to have to fight his way through yet another mystery of bloody proportions if he has any hope of finding the woman who could very well end his world…and almost already did. If he is really lucky, he’ll not lose himself along the way.
To get myself ready for this new release from Rhys Ford I have spent the last two days reading non-stop Cole and Jae. Four books, two shorts, and a whole lot of bullets. I’m pretty sure Ford went thru an entire gun shop’s worth of bullets in her pursuit of throwing everything and the kitchen sink at Cole and Jae. I have laughed, I have cried, I have had to battle some serious envy problems because, dear lord, Cole and Jae together makes me want to fall in that kind of love-–even if it sounds seriously painful (if not downright dangerous for one’s health). These two have always been a favorite of mine, from nearly the first moment we met, but I never really expected to find myself falling a second (or a fifth) time.
Rhys Ford writes some of my favorite PI-themed stories. I think it is part Cole, and part the wonderful mystery, but every time I pick up one of these books I am left in a whirlwind of clues and subtle shifts that makes the slow picking thru the knotted threads worth it. Sheila leads to the group of trans ladies, which leads to a forgotten parts of his past, and right back again to Sheila. Everything is connected, but it never goes so far as to make it unbelievable. I think you just start to believe that Cole is just one of those guys cursed with bad luck…and dead bodies. But then again, it led him to Jae, so it can’t be all that bad. Cole also is really starting to come alive…or maybe wake up. He starts to realize that he can’t just react, even when he knows that he must act–-if only to keep his sanity. And Jae.
And if there is one thing (and honestly picking one, or eight, is incomprehensible) that really sets these mysteries apart it is how we get an insight in to this society that I have no real connection to. I love how the Korean culture is woven into these mysteries. I think part of it is the lure of the unknown…and reading something that finally feels unique. But it is also how we are challenged to look at the world thru eyes that see their lives as more than just the almighty “I”. The connection between families, and generations, has had a huge impact on Cole and Jae. A large portion of both of these guy’s families are right asses, but it never as easy as just walking away from them. Connections are always harder to sever than we’d want them to be, sometimes. And sometimes it is about stitching together a family out of the good parts and letting them fill the holes left behind by the others. It was nice to see that Jae is actually starting to come to life–-even if the cost of those smiles was a family that meant everything to him, even when it was killing him.
Finally in this book it starts to feel like Cole and Jae are settling into their relationship. For Jae, the worst has happened, and yet he has found that Cole is there in the end. As promised. And Cole…well he is starting to let the past go. Or maybe just stop letting the past dictate everything that he does. It still hurts like hell-–what Ben did, and what Cole lost-–but finding Jae in his bed, and in their home, is something worth fighting to keep. And god, these two together. Is it horrible that I am madly jealous of two fictional characters? Not only is the sex hot…but just the passion they show in everything, for each other, is beautiful. And now that Cole is no longer waiting for the ax to come down on his already-pulverized heart, it really feels like something worth envying. If only because it feels real. All that anger, and yelling, and loving, and soothing…it isn’t just two over-cupididized lovebirds cooing over each other. It is two men who have a lot of messed up shit in their pasts, and have a lot of personality, but they are damn well going to make a life together…even if it kills them.
I can’t figure out what part of this book I liked the best. Maybe it was the way that Cole is growing up…and moving on. Maybe it is the way that Jae is finally happy. Maybe it is the way that I can never figure out just where the mystery is going to take me next. But no matter what, this book was just a perfect combination of everything I wanted, and some things I never expected-–because I do love to be kept on my toes. And that ending…I can’t tell if the next book is going to open up with Cole digging a shallow grave in his backyard, or not. But yeah, I totally saw that coming…like a train wreck in slow-motion. I dearly wish I had book five right now (and am totally willing to offer bribes for it…hint hint).
And if all that hasn’t convinced you that you need to read this book, let’s just say you don’t want to miss reading the part where they switch things up in the bedroom. Your pants will catch on fire and flee for cooler climes.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
August 27, 2014
I don’t know if I’ve changed or if she has, but this author’s writing style is not working for me anymore. It feels like there’s very little left of what I liked about this series in book 1 & 2 and now the writing quirks – excessive description, lengthy sex scenes, and clumsy metaphors - just irritate and distract me. I often found myself thinking ‘huh?’ and rereading; the writing does not flow smoothly. I realize this may not bother most people, but this is the end of the line for this writer and me.
Here are some examples of what I’m talking about:
I got clocked by a woman one flying monkey short of gassing a little girl.
My mouth was suddenly on its own admiration jaunt down O’Byrne Avenue.
When Jae saw me come out of the building, he took one step toward me…a molasses advance that lasted only as long as I blinked. Then his feet grew wings and time slid around us, drawing the space separating us together in a tremendous leap. The TARDIS would have envied his speed.
That was a plan so cunning I could have put a tail on it and called it a weasel.
All of a sudden my palate became Velcro, and every inch of my tongue was attracted to it, filling up the empty space behind my kiss-swollen lips.
Then I got scared. It began small, then ate its way through my confidence like a hungry tribble intent on fucking its innards to produce its own sister wives.
There was no coming back from playing Gallagher with a melon on your head with a hollow-point.
She was skinny, no curves to speak of, and her shoulders were broad enough to make me wonder if a linebacker lost his in some urban legend kidney transplant Las Vegas trip.
“Need some help?” The words flowered off my tongue, like overwatered freeway ice plant in the spring.
April’s threats seems almost like whipped cream on really shitty rice pudding.
If the bullets before rocked the cars, the ones flying about now perforated our surroundings like we were stuck in a pachinko machine, and the guy with his hand on the bumper switch badly needed to win a pack of cigarettes.
Here are some examples of what I’m talking about:
I got clocked by a woman one flying monkey short of gassing a little girl.
My mouth was suddenly on its own admiration jaunt down O’Byrne Avenue.
When Jae saw me come out of the building, he took one step toward me…a molasses advance that lasted only as long as I blinked. Then his feet grew wings and time slid around us, drawing the space separating us together in a tremendous leap. The TARDIS would have envied his speed.
That was a plan so cunning I could have put a tail on it and called it a weasel.
All of a sudden my palate became Velcro, and every inch of my tongue was attracted to it, filling up the empty space behind my kiss-swollen lips.
Then I got scared. It began small, then ate its way through my confidence like a hungry tribble intent on fucking its innards to produce its own sister wives.
There was no coming back from playing Gallagher with a melon on your head with a hollow-point.
She was skinny, no curves to speak of, and her shoulders were broad enough to make me wonder if a linebacker lost his in some urban legend kidney transplant Las Vegas trip.
“Need some help?” The words flowered off my tongue, like overwatered freeway ice plant in the spring.
April’s threats seems almost like whipped cream on really shitty rice pudding.
If the bullets before rocked the cars, the ones flying about now perforated our surroundings like we were stuck in a pachinko machine, and the guy with his hand on the bumper switch badly needed to win a pack of cigarettes.
May 24, 2015
4.5 Stars
Dirty Deeds sees Cole get shot at a lot. You know, the usual. I can't imagine what his insurance rates must be!
After Ben's widow, Sheila, who has become a drugged out crack and meth addict, tried to kill Jae a few months ago, Cole spent a lot of time and energy trying to find her. Then, when Sheila is arrested and then released, due to a glitch or a stupid rookie mistake, Cole stepps up his efforts. So, of course, people from Cole's past keep crashing into his present, in a spectacular way.
I really want to find out what really happened with Ben. I'm trying to imagine why someone who is supposed to be Cole's best friend, would gun him and his boyfriend down in cold blood and then kill himself. Something doesn't add up. And now, Sheila has resurfaced and is blaming Cole for everything she's lost. Cole's a victim, here, not the perpetrator, Sheila. Get out of your drug haze and get some therapy. And take a bath.
And there's a great big hole in Cole that used to be occupied by Ben and Rick and he still doesn't know what happened or why. It's eating at him. I think part of Cole was hoping that if he could catch up with Sheila, he might learn the reason behind Ben's ginormous betrayal. If only it were that easy, yeah?
I think we're getting close to finding out some answers, though, and I cannot wait until Dirty Heart is released so we can finally learn what the hell happened.
Aside from the Sheila story arc, Cole and Jae have become really solid and Cole's younger brother Ichi has truly become family. I love this series and I will be sad to see it end!
Dirty Deeds sees Cole get shot at a lot. You know, the usual. I can't imagine what his insurance rates must be!
After Ben's widow, Sheila, who has become a drugged out crack and meth addict, tried to kill Jae a few months ago, Cole spent a lot of time and energy trying to find her. Then, when Sheila is arrested and then released, due to a glitch or a stupid rookie mistake, Cole stepps up his efforts. So, of course, people from Cole's past keep crashing into his present, in a spectacular way.
I really want to find out what really happened with Ben. I'm trying to imagine why someone who is supposed to be Cole's best friend, would gun him and his boyfriend down in cold blood and then kill himself. Something doesn't add up. And now, Sheila has resurfaced and is blaming Cole for everything she's lost. Cole's a victim, here, not the perpetrator, Sheila. Get out of your drug haze and get some therapy. And take a bath.
And there's a great big hole in Cole that used to be occupied by Ben and Rick and he still doesn't know what happened or why. It's eating at him. I think part of Cole was hoping that if he could catch up with Sheila, he might learn the reason behind Ben's ginormous betrayal. If only it were that easy, yeah?
I think we're getting close to finding out some answers, though, and I cannot wait until Dirty Heart is released so we can finally learn what the hell happened.
Aside from the Sheila story arc, Cole and Jae have become really solid and Cole's younger brother Ichi has truly become family. I love this series and I will be sad to see it end!
April 14, 2014
Finally.
I was just sure that Jae was going to run forever. And that was okay because I knew he loved Cole so him hiding from his own feelings, from true commitment, that was okay. I could deal. But Cole is getting things together too. He has a good working relationship with the LAPD now, things are quieting on the home front, he has two brothers, one older, one younger, who love him, and his best friend, though being weird, seems more grounded himself. So even though he still gets shot at and threatened and finds himself in the weirdest situations possible, he's in a pretty good place. So it makes sense that Jae sees the growth, recognizes that his man is dependable and without a death wish and so decides he's going to stay. They are solid. Hallelujah. Jae has committed. He's in it. He's there. I hugged my paperback. I'm so happy. And I should have known, if you look at the covers, they start out mostly purple, sort of cold, and then slowly, they warm up. Look at all the lovely burnished gold on this cover. I love it when cover art illuminates the work. Fantastic. And now, the next book, we know that the turmoil will be external and not internal. And to go forward together, as a team...lovely. Wildly recommended.
I was just sure that Jae was going to run forever. And that was okay because I knew he loved Cole so him hiding from his own feelings, from true commitment, that was okay. I could deal. But Cole is getting things together too. He has a good working relationship with the LAPD now, things are quieting on the home front, he has two brothers, one older, one younger, who love him, and his best friend, though being weird, seems more grounded himself. So even though he still gets shot at and threatened and finds himself in the weirdest situations possible, he's in a pretty good place. So it makes sense that Jae sees the growth, recognizes that his man is dependable and without a death wish and so decides he's going to stay. They are solid. Hallelujah. Jae has committed. He's in it. He's there. I hugged my paperback. I'm so happy. And I should have known, if you look at the covers, they start out mostly purple, sort of cold, and then slowly, they warm up. Look at all the lovely burnished gold on this cover. I love it when cover art illuminates the work. Fantastic. And now, the next book, we know that the turmoil will be external and not internal. And to go forward together, as a team...lovely. Wildly recommended.
November 22, 2015
Perfection! I was so happy to learn even more about Cole and how his past relationships shaped him into the man that adores Jae-Min. And I also loved that the mystery was so much easier to follow this time. It was excellent reading. Rhys has once again confirmed her spot as one of my very favorite authors.
May 12, 2015
- Narrator - Grey Tremblay Review to come..
October 23, 2015
Audio book
Greg Tremblay, marry me!!
I’m not only in love with Cole and Jae, but with Greg Tremblay as well. He is so good.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I am totally addicted to this series! I can listen to Greg telling me about Cole, Jae, Bobby and Ichi ALL day long.
This installment was a bit slower and less action packed than the others in the series. But we finally get some more answers as to why Ben shot Rick and Cole. And I did not see that one coming!
We also finally get a scene that I was personally waiting for since book 1.
What? These things are important.
And now off to book 5… Bobby and Ichi. Gimme gimme gimme.
Greg Tremblay, marry me!!
I’m not only in love with Cole and Jae, but with Greg Tremblay as well. He is so good.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I am totally addicted to this series! I can listen to Greg telling me about Cole, Jae, Bobby and Ichi ALL day long.
This installment was a bit slower and less action packed than the others in the series. But we finally get some more answers as to why Ben shot Rick and Cole. And I did not see that one coming!
We also finally get a scene that I was personally waiting for since book 1.
What? These things are important.
And now off to book 5… Bobby and Ichi. Gimme gimme gimme.
August 31, 2014
Probably my most fave of the series so far. I actually didn't get confused with all the names/characters this time. I felt Jae was a much more likeable character in this instalment. I understand it was part of his cultural up bringing to be so reserved, but I'm glad he and Cole really solidified their relationship.
Loved the little shout out to Mary Calmes (Jory & Sam) and the cliffie in the epilogue!
Loved the little shout out to Mary Calmes (Jory & Sam) and the cliffie in the epilogue!
March 20, 2014
Dirty Deeds is Book Four in the Cole McGinnis Mystery series and all our favourite characters are here for our delectation. Our stalwart, besotted Cole and the gorgeous, Jae-Min, are living happily together and Cole is enjoying the physical results of Jae‘s yoga, which he took up to aid his recovery after being shot by Sheila. I still tingle or smile when they call each other Cole -ah or Jae-ah and their scenes together are deliciously hot. Twink loving Bobby is getting even more muscly, is still Cole‘s sidekick and still doesn’t realise. Ichy, Cole‘s ‘newest’ brother, is enjoying his success in his new Tattoo Parlour and Nuna (Scarlet) is enjoying her life and in no danger or trouble. Claudia is back as receptionist extraordinaire /pseudo-Mother. All should be well, except that Cole cannot forgive or forget that Sheila shot Jae. When he is informed that Sheila had been caught by Santa Monica police but released by a rookie cop, it seems she is back to cause trouble in their lives again.
I suppose I should be mentioning that if you have read the Cole Mcginnis series so far, Dirty Deeds is more of the same. This is often a complaint but more of the same is a lot of what I wanted, some fictional characters and worlds are so enjoyable that you just want them to continue. However, I feel that this book is a bit intrigue and angst ‘light’, in comparison with the others. We do have a new cop in Cole‘s life, who was introduced in a previous book, but she becomes a bit less anti Cole in Dirty Deeds and takes him on as a ‘limited’ consultant on this case.
There is nothing wrong, as such, with this novel and Rhys Ford’s writing always entertains and definitely expands my knowledge of Asian cuisine and traditions, which I love. However, the case of murdered transsexuals, missing drugs and money didn’t draw me in, the way the other books in this series have. The emotional connection between Cole, Jai, Bobby etc. and the criminal activities is usually there because Rhys weaves the latest criminal case in and around them. It’s this inextricable link that keeps the action and emotions high throughout this series. Unfortunately, this link is mainly absent in Dirty Deeds.
There was an intriguing little surprise right at the end of this novel, which indicates at least one area of angst to come in the next one. However, for some masochistic reason, I like my beloved heroes to be in danger or need and I think that is what was missing for me.
I have a feeling that Rhys Ford is maybe wrapping up loose ends with this novel, in order to open new areas of investigation and concern for Cole, Jae and the other wonderful characters in this series?
I certainly hope so.
Full review www.prismbookalliance.com
I suppose I should be mentioning that if you have read the Cole Mcginnis series so far, Dirty Deeds is more of the same. This is often a complaint but more of the same is a lot of what I wanted, some fictional characters and worlds are so enjoyable that you just want them to continue. However, I feel that this book is a bit intrigue and angst ‘light’, in comparison with the others. We do have a new cop in Cole‘s life, who was introduced in a previous book, but she becomes a bit less anti Cole in Dirty Deeds and takes him on as a ‘limited’ consultant on this case.
There is nothing wrong, as such, with this novel and Rhys Ford’s writing always entertains and definitely expands my knowledge of Asian cuisine and traditions, which I love. However, the case of murdered transsexuals, missing drugs and money didn’t draw me in, the way the other books in this series have. The emotional connection between Cole, Jai, Bobby etc. and the criminal activities is usually there because Rhys weaves the latest criminal case in and around them. It’s this inextricable link that keeps the action and emotions high throughout this series. Unfortunately, this link is mainly absent in Dirty Deeds.
There was an intriguing little surprise right at the end of this novel, which indicates at least one area of angst to come in the next one. However, for some masochistic reason, I like my beloved heroes to be in danger or need and I think that is what was missing for me.
I have a feeling that Rhys Ford is maybe wrapping up loose ends with this novel, in order to open new areas of investigation and concern for Cole, Jae and the other wonderful characters in this series?
I certainly hope so.
Full review www.prismbookalliance.com
June 13, 2016
Ichiro Tokugawa!!
Actually this book is my favourite in the series so far. Jae seems more settled and there was less forced angst and more backstory. Previous books could be confusing and it felt like the reader should know what was happening and this is the book that makes it all make sense. There is a MAJOR consistency error that really annoyed me and is pretty much the only reason that this does not get 5 stars. A bit harsh perhaps, but thems the breaks!!
These books are just easy reading and great if you just want to switch off and relax. Perfect holiday reading and perfect lazy weekend reading.
Bonus points for the Matter of Time reference. I may have squeed!!
I'm so excited about the next book. I just adore Ichi and I can't wait to read about the fun he and a certain best friend are going to get up to!!
October 30, 2019
Another fantastic story about ever charming Cole McGinnis and his daily shenanigans. It had it all - suspense, mystery, sarcastic humor and so much love. Cole and Jae made my heart melt - so passionate, so sweet and real together. This time Cole takes a walk down the memory lane while trying to find Sheila, Ben's widow, and trying to figure out what happened 3 years ago that made Ben snap. But of course where Cole is concerned, there are always fireworks and not the good kind. He is thrown in the middle of drug trafficking and people getting shot. In the end there are many revelations that do not make sense, but Cole will keep digging in order to put the past to rest and live his life happily with Jae by his side. Ms Ford sure knows how to finish a book with a bang. I loved it!
April 19, 2016
In the wee hours of the night I quietly slid my glasses on and opened my e-reader because damned if Cole & Jae weren't just sitting there taunting me. So I finished this series at 5 a.m. and I sighed happy because my boys had survived and were together and happy.
I wish I had time to write a lengthy review espousing all the virtues of this series and explaining why I love it so much, but alas the real world demands to much of me these days so I will simply say I loved, loved, loved reading these books and anxiously look forward to more. Because OMG the ending on this book, there is no way with an ending like that there can't be more.
I wish I had time to write a lengthy review espousing all the virtues of this series and explaining why I love it so much, but alas the real world demands to much of me these days so I will simply say I loved, loved, loved reading these books and anxiously look forward to more. Because OMG the ending on this book, there is no way with an ending like that there can't be more.
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