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Hostile Ground
After the deaths of three undercover cops investigating a drug ring in a seedy strip club in Seattle, Detective Mahir Hussain has been sent to finish the job. He joins the club's security team in the hopes of finding enough evidence to bust the operation before the men in charge find a reason to put him in a shallow grave.
To protect the strippers, only gay men can work the club. Ridley, the cold and intimidating head of security, knows exactly how to test potential new hires-including Mahir. From the minute they meet, Mahir and Ridley engage in a dangerous dance of sex and mind games. Mahir needs to find his evidence before Ridley figures out he's a cop-and before they both grow too close to betray one another.
As the game goes on, Mahir burrows deeper into the operation, where he learns there's much more happening than meets the eye . . . and why every cop who made it this far has been silenced with a bullet.
To protect the strippers, only gay men can work the club. Ridley, the cold and intimidating head of security, knows exactly how to test potential new hires-including Mahir. From the minute they meet, Mahir and Ridley engage in a dangerous dance of sex and mind games. Mahir needs to find his evidence before Ridley figures out he's a cop-and before they both grow too close to betray one another.
As the game goes on, Mahir burrows deeper into the operation, where he learns there's much more happening than meets the eye . . . and why every cop who made it this far has been silenced with a bullet.
300 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2014
89 people are currently reading
1583 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
217 books2,722 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
March 11, 2018
**Review removed due to personal reasons. Rating downgraded to one star.**
Important: The issue is not about A. Voinov**
March 11, 2018
Important: The issue is not about A. Voinov**
March 11, 2018
May 13, 2014
Written May 13, 2014
4.4 Stars - Nervy, steamy and delightfully tantalizing with exciting plot
I was so happy the day I got this ARC novel. Hostile Ground is a new cop/crime romance by Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt, with release day: May 12, 2014.
I haven't read that much of any of these two authors, but the books I have read have been really good. This romantic thriller genre with gay guys tend to usually work well for me. I really wanted to read more by these authors. ~ Am I still happy? Yap, this was a good one.
I can heartily recommend Hostile Ground to you M/M readers who also likes a bit tougher (male) style and a tighter tension in your romances.
***********************************************************
Detective Mahir Hussain has been sent to finish the job as an undercover cop after the deaths of three other police colleagues who have tried to investigating a drug ring in a seedy strip club in Seattle U.S. Mahir joins the club’s security team as Saeed (his cover identity) to finding enough evidence to bust the operation.
Mahir have Syrian ancestry - something he often gets digs for that. As an Arab (and with a larger family in the Muslim tradition) in U.S nowadays, are ugly and nasty bullying words about him, and his background, not uncommon. So also in this strip club. His new teammates are not very welcoming.
One that doesn't seem to care much about Mahir's dark appearance and Arab ancestry is his new boss, David Ridley, the cold and intimidating head of security. On the contrary, he seems to like both Mahir's (or Saeed's) appearance and dark eyes already from the start.
To protect the strippers - only gay men can work at the club. The rumor is that Ridley knows exactly how to test potential new hires—including Mahir. ~ It will be a tough first encounter between them (but not uncomfortably raw and hard) which later leads to so much more. The passion and desire was inevitable and almost immediately.
***********************************************************
I'll start by admitting that I was a little nervous at first. I always find it uncomfortable with shady clubs. You know; dark and misty bars, crime bosses, huge nasty leather men, prostitution, drugs, violence and sometimes also cruel abuse. But this was more suspense and awfully thrilling than creally rude and disgusting. It was there in the background but I didn't get all of it in my face all the time.
Who Ridley is and why he chose to work for a cruel crime boss is of course the big question. How can Mahir, even on the job's behalf, consider to entering into a (...sexual at first) relationship with a suspected feared murderer and executioner? - Yes, I was puzzled at first.
***********************************************************
Pretty soon begins the romantic part of the story and it was well made and nicely told. I belived that the attraction, and later maybe even love, was possible and it felt natural, and even quite casual believable.
Mahir had of course another (completely normal private) life too and sometimes is he back in his home (..secretly of course) and we meet his everyday troubles, etc. The part I liked best perhaps. As soon as he left the club, I could breathe a little easier.
I felt that it was both a good dialogue in general and many interesting characters here. Even Mahir's relationships with other than Ridley raised the action and intrigue. ~ Mahir's lively teenage nephew Kinza was such a wonderful addition to this a bit dark and gloomy story.
What should be steaming hot in this romance felt so even for me. ~ Absolutely nothing to complain about in that part.
***********************************************************
It is also always a little extra plus from me when "the gay issue", etc. is highlighted. If you are a member of an immigrant Arab and Muslim family is the question (this problem ..) of course usually there. Likewise, if you work as a police officer.
This is a book with a high "thriller" atmosphere. For me it was both anxiety-charged and creeping scary sometimes. In the end it was pure "Bruce Willis action" and really fast-paced and violent. Shoots swirled in the air. - If you want to know more about the plot you must read the book, or another review, I don't want to reveal anything. All I can say is that it was twists and surprises that I hadn't expected.
***********************************************************
All in all - I liked this novel, the characters and especially these two (both sexy and so lovely) male main characters. I got an well-made crime drama and of course a very smexy love story. A romance with a grand resolution (..just awesome) and a sweet epilogue.
Quite crisp and cozy to read (.. a few days far away in China a few weeks ago). It will be more by Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt.
I LIKE - this gave me a taste for even more gay cop / crime romances
~~~~~~~~~
**ARC kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. March 27, 2014.**
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.***
4.4 Stars - Nervy, steamy and delightfully tantalizing with exciting plot
I was so happy the day I got this ARC novel. Hostile Ground is a new cop/crime romance by Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt, with release day: May 12, 2014.
I haven't read that much of any of these two authors, but the books I have read have been really good. This romantic thriller genre with gay guys tend to usually work well for me. I really wanted to read more by these authors. ~ Am I still happy? Yap, this was a good one.
I can heartily recommend Hostile Ground to you M/M readers who also likes a bit tougher (male) style and a tighter tension in your romances.
***********************************************************
Detective Mahir Hussain has been sent to finish the job as an undercover cop after the deaths of three other police colleagues who have tried to investigating a drug ring in a seedy strip club in Seattle U.S. Mahir joins the club’s security team as Saeed (his cover identity) to finding enough evidence to bust the operation.
Mahir have Syrian ancestry - something he often gets digs for that. As an Arab (and with a larger family in the Muslim tradition) in U.S nowadays, are ugly and nasty bullying words about him, and his background, not uncommon. So also in this strip club. His new teammates are not very welcoming.
One that doesn't seem to care much about Mahir's dark appearance and Arab ancestry is his new boss, David Ridley, the cold and intimidating head of security. On the contrary, he seems to like both Mahir's (or Saeed's) appearance and dark eyes already from the start.
‘Yeah, he was gay and he was attractive, but there was an air about him that made Mahir more than happy to stay on the opposite side of the room. The guy radiated a menacing intensity. A focused, predatory aura that pulled all of Mahir’s nerves taut.’
To protect the strippers - only gay men can work at the club. The rumor is that Ridley knows exactly how to test potential new hires—including Mahir. ~ It will be a tough first encounter between them (but not uncomfortably raw and hard) which later leads to so much more. The passion and desire was inevitable and almost immediately.
***********************************************************
I'll start by admitting that I was a little nervous at first. I always find it uncomfortable with shady clubs. You know; dark and misty bars, crime bosses, huge nasty leather men, prostitution, drugs, violence and sometimes also cruel abuse. But this was more suspense and awfully thrilling than creally rude and disgusting. It was there in the background but I didn't get all of it in my face all the time.
Who Ridley is and why he chose to work for a cruel crime boss is of course the big question. How can Mahir, even on the job's behalf, consider to entering into a (...sexual at first) relationship with a suspected feared murderer and executioner? - Yes, I was puzzled at first.
***********************************************************
Pretty soon begins the romantic part of the story and it was well made and nicely told. I belived that the attraction, and later maybe even love, was possible and it felt natural, and even quite casual believable.
“I want you to remember that,” Ridley whispered. “That no matter what, you’ll do anything I tell you to. Because you will. Won’t you?”
Mahir had of course another (completely normal private) life too and sometimes is he back in his home (..secretly of course) and we meet his everyday troubles, etc. The part I liked best perhaps. As soon as he left the club, I could breathe a little easier.
I felt that it was both a good dialogue in general and many interesting characters here. Even Mahir's relationships with other than Ridley raised the action and intrigue. ~ Mahir's lively teenage nephew Kinza was such a wonderful addition to this a bit dark and gloomy story.
What should be steaming hot in this romance felt so even for me. ~ Absolutely nothing to complain about in that part.
***********************************************************
It is also always a little extra plus from me when "the gay issue", etc. is highlighted. If you are a member of an immigrant Arab and Muslim family is the question (this problem ..) of course usually there. Likewise, if you work as a police officer.
‘God, but he was the most enticing, unnerving combination of the two sides of the man Mahir had come to know. The hand on Mahir's cheek slid into his hair. Tightened. Pulled. Mahir surrended, letting himself be drawn in, and just before their lips met, Ridley said, “I like it dangerous.”
This is a book with a high "thriller" atmosphere. For me it was both anxiety-charged and creeping scary sometimes. In the end it was pure "Bruce Willis action" and really fast-paced and violent. Shoots swirled in the air. - If you want to know more about the plot you must read the book, or another review, I don't want to reveal anything. All I can say is that it was twists and surprises that I hadn't expected.
***********************************************************
All in all - I liked this novel, the characters and especially these two (both sexy and so lovely) male main characters. I got an well-made crime drama and of course a very smexy love story. A romance with a grand resolution (..just awesome) and a sweet epilogue.
Quite crisp and cozy to read (.. a few days far away in China a few weeks ago). It will be more by Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt.
I LIKE - this gave me a taste for even more gay cop / crime romances
~~~~~~~~~
**ARC kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. March 27, 2014.**
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.***
April 9, 2019
Both the audio and story were just okay for me. I'm willing to suspend belief, but the trade off has to be a swoon-worthy couple. Unfortunately, I felt no chemistry between the MCs, so I didn't even get that.
May 13, 2014
I absolutely LOVED this book! It was on-the-edge-of-your-seat fun with incredible romance and plenty of hot sex to keep even the pickiest M/M romance enthusiast happy.
Because of all the startling and fabulous plot twists and potential spoilers, I'm going to keep this review as my reaction only. Read the blurb and get reading! Highly, highly recommended for the romance and/or the suspense. Read it for one and get the other as a bonus.
Read
January 30, 2014Erotic suspense written with Aleksandr Voinov. Lots of violence and mind games. 'cause that's how we roll.
March 10, 2019
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance
There’s a Fight Club reference. I really shouldn’t have to sell it further than this but I will.
I loved this! I’ve made no secret about my affinity for Voinov. Now I’m starting to see the special magic he and his sidekick Witt can create. No, I haven’t read the Market Garden series yet. Stop judging me.
Hostile Ground reminded me a awful lot of The Departed and I freakin’ LOVE THAT MOVIE! We’ve got the son of a bitch gangster/sociopath in Lombardi. Seriously, this dude is scary-two to the chest, one to the head scary. We’ve got the undercover cop in Mahir who’s in way over his head and, finally, we’ve got Ridley, Lombardi’s enforcer with the icy, penetrating stare, ever present sunglasses, way too much sex appeal and an utterly unreadable face. But is he a sociopath?
What made Hostile Ground such a page turner for me was the investigation into Lombardi’s crime ring. Drugs and prostitution are a given, but that doesn’t fully explain why or how three cops got put six feet under nor does it explain where in the fuck all the money is coming from. How widespread is this network? Is it international? What all does it involve? Who all’s involved? An investigation I could really sink my teeth into.
Mahir’s attention is divided between his real life and Saeed, his undercover persona, since his nephew, Kinza, ran away from home straight to the one uncle that’s always been there for him. Now I know these authors too well to believe for a second this plot line isn’t going to weave into the other somehow. The pressing questions then become how and, more importantly, is it going to hurt my feelings?
The sexy times were really more stress relief for me and the characters. I/we needed that shit! They are savage with each other befitting their situation and personalities. Lots of toppiness, biting, pining of arms, a little choking for good measure you know, the good stuff. In a nutshell, Witt and Voinov brought it. I will say in one scene they did beat the hell out of the ‘control’ drum more than I thought was strictly necessary.
Quite a few racial epithets and gay slurs are bandied about, so if that’s a trigger, you’ve been warned. The characters in Hostile Ground are gritty and unsavory for the most part. Some are world class douche canoes that need to be put down. They are criminals and thugs and they are portrayed as such. No holds barred. Asshattery galore. Yada yada yada.
The tension Witt and Voinov create is visceral as well as intellectual. Be forewarned, parts of the investigation will turn your stomach. As far as the writing, it’s Voinov and Witt. Do I really need to say more here? The only drawback for me was I would’ve liked a more detailed explanation of the investigation’s findings. I know. I hear ya saying, ‘it’s a romance novel, Wench’! I know. I know, but still… Maybe a news clipping or a mock report at the end? *backs away slowly*
All and all, it was highly entertaining. Excellent pacing. Authentic dialogue. The works. If you like crime thrillers and/or either of these authors, you won’t be disappointed.
I would like to thank Riptide for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Mahir. Couldn't get this image out of my head the entire time I read this.
There’s a Fight Club reference. I really shouldn’t have to sell it further than this but I will.
I loved this! I’ve made no secret about my affinity for Voinov. Now I’m starting to see the special magic he and his sidekick Witt can create. No, I haven’t read the Market Garden series yet. Stop judging me.
Hostile Ground reminded me a awful lot of The Departed and I freakin’ LOVE THAT MOVIE! We’ve got the son of a bitch gangster/sociopath in Lombardi. Seriously, this dude is scary-two to the chest, one to the head scary. We’ve got the undercover cop in Mahir who’s in way over his head and, finally, we’ve got Ridley, Lombardi’s enforcer with the icy, penetrating stare, ever present sunglasses, way too much sex appeal and an utterly unreadable face. But is he a sociopath?
What made Hostile Ground such a page turner for me was the investigation into Lombardi’s crime ring. Drugs and prostitution are a given, but that doesn’t fully explain why or how three cops got put six feet under nor does it explain where in the fuck all the money is coming from. How widespread is this network? Is it international? What all does it involve? Who all’s involved? An investigation I could really sink my teeth into.
Mahir’s attention is divided between his real life and Saeed, his undercover persona, since his nephew, Kinza, ran away from home straight to the one uncle that’s always been there for him. Now I know these authors too well to believe for a second this plot line isn’t going to weave into the other somehow. The pressing questions then become how and, more importantly, is it going to hurt my feelings?
The sexy times were really more stress relief for me and the characters. I/we needed that shit! They are savage with each other befitting their situation and personalities. Lots of toppiness, biting, pining of arms, a little choking for good measure you know, the good stuff. In a nutshell, Witt and Voinov brought it. I will say in one scene they did beat the hell out of the ‘control’ drum more than I thought was strictly necessary.
“I like it dangerous.”
Quite a few racial epithets and gay slurs are bandied about, so if that’s a trigger, you’ve been warned. The characters in Hostile Ground are gritty and unsavory for the most part. Some are world class douche canoes that need to be put down. They are criminals and thugs and they are portrayed as such. No holds barred. Asshattery galore. Yada yada yada.
The tension Witt and Voinov create is visceral as well as intellectual. Be forewarned, parts of the investigation will turn your stomach. As far as the writing, it’s Voinov and Witt. Do I really need to say more here? The only drawback for me was I would’ve liked a more detailed explanation of the investigation’s findings. I know. I hear ya saying, ‘it’s a romance novel, Wench’! I know. I know, but still… Maybe a news clipping or a mock report at the end? *backs away slowly*
All and all, it was highly entertaining. Excellent pacing. Authentic dialogue. The works. If you like crime thrillers and/or either of these authors, you won’t be disappointed.
I would like to thank Riptide for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Mahir. Couldn't get this image out of my head the entire time I read this.
June 25, 2014
If this book has told me anything it is that romantic suspense is sooooo not my genre.
The writing combination of L.A. Witt and Aleksandr Voinov is sort of an auto-read for me. I've been known to go gaga for this duo (Quid Pro Quo, anyone??) so I HAD to see what these two would do with a thriller.
The first 25% of the book? LOVE! I loved the hot sex, the power plays, the dirty talking... I adore rough and forceful sex scenes so I was like, "Yeeah baby!" (<--- picture Austin Powers voice) with the early scenes between Mahir and Ridley.
After that? Meh, not so much.
There were a couple things that really bothered me about this book, the most glaring being plot holes. God, I hate me a plot hole. I felt like as soon as the action picked up the leaps and gaps in logic became more and more apparent. Another issue that I had was that this book was REALLY predictable. I knew exactly what was going to happen next, and I'm no sleuth! Part of that had to do with the rambling internal commentary from Mahir, which gave a lot away, IMH.
I also didn't love how the book ended. Too neat and tidy for my taste.
But there was also a lot to like.
I loved the diversity of the characters. A gay practicing Muslim character? I haven't seen many of those. I liked the side plot with Mahir and his family, though I suspect some other readers might not enjoy that as much as me because it took away a bit of focus from the action. I think the writing was tight and, like I said, I always love the writing chemistry between these two authors.
So in the end, I enjoyed this book but I didn't love it. The guns and fighting don't do much for me, and combined with some of my other gripes, it fell short of a home run.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
The writing combination of L.A. Witt and Aleksandr Voinov is sort of an auto-read for me. I've been known to go gaga for this duo (Quid Pro Quo, anyone??) so I HAD to see what these two would do with a thriller.
The first 25% of the book? LOVE! I loved the hot sex, the power plays, the dirty talking... I adore rough and forceful sex scenes so I was like, "Yeeah baby!" (<--- picture Austin Powers voice) with the early scenes between Mahir and Ridley.
After that? Meh, not so much.
There were a couple things that really bothered me about this book, the most glaring being plot holes. God, I hate me a plot hole. I felt like as soon as the action picked up the leaps and gaps in logic became more and more apparent. Another issue that I had was that this book was REALLY predictable. I knew exactly what was going to happen next, and I'm no sleuth! Part of that had to do with the rambling internal commentary from Mahir, which gave a lot away, IMH.
I also didn't love how the book ended. Too neat and tidy for my taste.
But there was also a lot to like.
I loved the diversity of the characters. A gay practicing Muslim character? I haven't seen many of those. I liked the side plot with Mahir and his family, though I suspect some other readers might not enjoy that as much as me because it took away a bit of focus from the action. I think the writing was tight and, like I said, I always love the writing chemistry between these two authors.
So in the end, I enjoyed this book but I didn't love it. The guns and fighting don't do much for me, and combined with some of my other gripes, it fell short of a home run.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
June 24, 2019
Reread: June 2019
First read: May 2014
Just as good as I remember it to be five years ago, maybe even better via audiobook!
Sooooo, two...
from me! ❤
First read: May 2014
Just as good as I remember it to be five years ago, maybe even better via audiobook!
Sooooo, two...
from me! ❤
November 17, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Too much sex*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
When there's too much sex, it overloads the story. Which is exactly what happened here. Detective Mahir ‘Saeed Hayaz’ Hussai (in his thirties) and the cold and intimidating head of security for a seedy strip club in Seattle (Gene Lombardi; his boss and owner), David Ridley (?) can't fight the attraction they have for one another, but not fighting it means dangerous. In other words; they might have to dig their own graves if they get caught. There's also being undercover... Overall, it was alright with the action and that, but the sex was too much and it wasn't what I wanted. Mahir and his nephew, Kinza (17) was cute though. But I wanted more for the story.
“I want you to remember that,” Ridley whispered. “That no matter what, you’ll do anything I tell you to. Because you will. Won’t you?”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Standalone.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - David Ridley.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Not really, but if you like 'sex overload', then yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars.
May 14, 2014
3.5 Stars!
I enjoyed this one.....I think I've decided though, that romantic suspense...whether MM or MF.....is just not my genre of choice! There's only a few authors that I really really enjoy.
But with that being said, when I picked is one I was wanting something a bit different. An MM read with some steam but that also wasn't necessarily GFY or OFY, even though those are my favorites. And this one fit the bill.
I did find several of the plot twists a bit predictable but I liked both MCs. The read itself was a bit on the slower side IMO....it felt like it took me forever to read it.
The sex scenes were hot....but not as hot as some of LA Witt's other books that I have read. Maybe the other author wrote the sex scenes, as I haven't read any of their solo works.
Overall, I liked if but I didn't love it! I think if you're a fan of romantic suspense you'll enjoy this one!
I enjoyed this one.....I think I've decided though, that romantic suspense...whether MM or MF.....is just not my genre of choice! There's only a few authors that I really really enjoy.
But with that being said, when I picked is one I was wanting something a bit different. An MM read with some steam but that also wasn't necessarily GFY or OFY, even though those are my favorites. And this one fit the bill.
I did find several of the plot twists a bit predictable but I liked both MCs. The read itself was a bit on the slower side IMO....it felt like it took me forever to read it.
The sex scenes were hot....but not as hot as some of LA Witt's other books that I have read. Maybe the other author wrote the sex scenes, as I haven't read any of their solo works.
Overall, I liked if but I didn't love it! I think if you're a fan of romantic suspense you'll enjoy this one!
April 7, 2015
~ ARC provided by Riptide via Netgalley ~
***5 definitely-adored-this couples-stars!***
My casting
Mahir Hussain
Ridley
Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt are a perfect example for a perfect duet.
I adore their writing so much.
Perfect writing skills, perfect stories, I couldn't ask for more.
This is definitely a different, very different point of view in LGBT story.
Mahir is a gay, and he's a Muslim. I'm a Muslim my self, and being gay in Islam, is definitely wrong, especially when you're gay.
Happen in my family.
So I know how difficult Mahir and Kinza situation dealing with their life and family and Religion.
For me, this is more than a story, thank you Aleks and Lori for the story. I know exactly their feeling according to this.
Back to the story. Aside from how Mahir and his nephew cope with the situation, Mahir must face some undercover task in , he met Ridley, a head security of the club.
Since the very beginning, I can feel a very strong chemistry and attraction between the two guys...even, there's no trust between them...the passion and chemistry was 'there', and none of them can deny it.
I loved how Mahir struggled with a feeling of right or wrong, about what he felt for Ridley...and how Ridley's jealousy over another guy...there were so many awwww moments , that I felt so sweet and made me blush and *cough* ...squirmed on my seat...
And I loved how Adil took part of this situation, about Kinza, I think the Adil and Kinza part was so realistic...almost every Muslim family have the same problems..it's depends on how they cope with that. And Aleks and Lori, wrote it in a smart way.
And I just loved how the book ended, and the Epilogue was just PERFECT!.... and I need more of them!
Recommended for all M/M readers, mostly who adores these two amazing authors!
May 29, 2014
OK here's the Short. Quick. and Dirty Low Down on Hostile Ground!!
Meet Detective Mahir Hussain - our Gay, Muslim , Undercover Cop
Add into the mix.....David Ridley- who ouzzed menacing intensity - Head of Security for King Drug Lord Lombardi - Not to be fucking messed with!!
Kinza - Mahir's Nephew - is a sweet adorable character, struggling with his own issues.
*C*A*P*O*W* - what more could you ask for - a HOT, super charged suspense.
Undercover Drug Ring Operation - Yes I likey!!
Another successful collaboration between Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt.
It was *A*R*R*E*S*T*I*N*G*!!
Meet Detective Mahir Hussain - our Gay, Muslim , Undercover Cop
Add into the mix.....David Ridley- who ouzzed menacing intensity - Head of Security for King Drug Lord Lombardi - Not to be fucking messed with!!
Kinza - Mahir's Nephew - is a sweet adorable character, struggling with his own issues.
*C*A*P*O*W* - what more could you ask for - a HOT, super charged suspense.
Undercover Drug Ring Operation - Yes I likey!!
Another successful collaboration between Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt.
December 20, 2014
4.5 Stars
'Dirty Except,' and Rafflecopter giveaway from May 12th at On Top Down Under http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
Mahir lifted himself up onto his elbow and resisted the urge to playfully or affectionately run his fingers down the center of Ridley's smooth, almost hairless chest. It hadn't been five minutes since this man was balls deep inside him and whispering filthy things in his ear, and now he seemed too dangerous to touch.
This was a good read. A very, very, VERY hot read. It kept my interest level up throughout. The writing was polished, the mystery/suspense pretty good, the characters relatable with a delicious and intense chemistry between the MC's. I liked the layers and contemporary undercurrent of post 9/11 America. A. Voinov and L.A Witt continue to write as a well-oiled, cohesive team.
Spoiler free review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
'Dirty Except,' and Rafflecopter giveaway from May 12th at On Top Down Under http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
Mahir lifted himself up onto his elbow and resisted the urge to playfully or affectionately run his fingers down the center of Ridley's smooth, almost hairless chest. It hadn't been five minutes since this man was balls deep inside him and whispering filthy things in his ear, and now he seemed too dangerous to touch.
This was a good read. A very, very, VERY hot read. It kept my interest level up throughout. The writing was polished, the mystery/suspense pretty good, the characters relatable with a delicious and intense chemistry between the MC's. I liked the layers and contemporary undercurrent of post 9/11 America. A. Voinov and L.A Witt continue to write as a well-oiled, cohesive team.
Spoiler free review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
Read
January 8, 2023[dnf] i promise i tried, but i have to throw in the towel 🫣 i went in expecting a hair-raising mystery thriller and instead got pwp requiring suspension of disbelief in monstrous proportions - steamy scenes on a q1h administration schedule, talk of “lovers” only a quarter in, the most incompetent of cops (you’re working undercover and you return to your *actual* home at the end of the day?? to where your nephew is staying??). maybe if i read this earlier on in my mm journey, i would’ve been more apt to forge on, but my reading tastes have definitely changed (i also skipped to the epilogue and the continued use of a certain term of address had me scratching my head 🤔)
but hey, at least they found each other. i’m more of a competence advocate personally, but i’m happy they can satisfy each other’s incompetence kink 😉
but hey, at least they found each other. i’m more of a competence advocate personally, but i’m happy they can satisfy each other’s incompetence kink 😉
August 12, 2016
DNF at 35%
Since I really like these two writers separately I was very excited to read something they wrote together. Unfortunately it turned out to be a big disappointment for me. I felt no connection to the MC's and it was very slow paced.
With all the 4 and 5 star reviews I've seen I'm definitely in the minority here. It's one of those books that just wasn't for me.
Since I really like these two writers separately I was very excited to read something they wrote together. Unfortunately it turned out to be a big disappointment for me. I felt no connection to the MC's and it was very slow paced.
With all the 4 and 5 star reviews I've seen I'm definitely in the minority here. It's one of those books that just wasn't for me.
October 4, 2014
This story of undercover cops is very hot, full of intense sex and desperate moments. I liked the fact that the POV MC, Mahir, was Muslim and gay, and dealt with being an outsider from multiple directions. I enjoyed the fact that he was dealing with the sudden appearance of his real life gay nephew, who needed a place to stay. Trying to balance out his responsibilities added stress and complexity to the story. Kinza was well written as a troubled teen with a chip on his shoulder.
I had problems with some of the plot points. Particularly later in the story, involving Kinza. But if you take this as entertainment, an erotic thriller more than a police procedural, then it's fast moving and enjoyable, with a happy ending.
I had problems with some of the plot points. Particularly later in the story, involving Kinza. But if you take this as entertainment, an erotic thriller more than a police procedural, then it's fast moving and enjoyable, with a happy ending.
October 21, 2018
**3.5 stars**
Very biased rating, LOL. LA Witt and Aleksandr Voinov are among my favorite authors, so the niggles I had could have been a bit of a deterrent for me in other books, but I didn’t mind here.
Mahir goes to work as a bouncer in a night club as an undercover cop to get enough evidence against the owner of the club and meets the head of security, Ridley. It’s the first time he goes undercover and it’s not easy for him, especially as he also has to deal with family issue with his nephew popping up after a huge row with his father and with his strong attraction to Ridley, who is among the bad guys.
My niggles : the plot, starting strong, went a bit shaky for me and with some holes by the end, and I felt uncomfortable with Mahir’s nephew’s part in it.
But that asides : Mahir and Ridley were really hot together and their interaction intense and delightfully interesting for me. Just for that, it was a winner !!!
Very biased rating, LOL. LA Witt and Aleksandr Voinov are among my favorite authors, so the niggles I had could have been a bit of a deterrent for me in other books, but I didn’t mind here.
Mahir goes to work as a bouncer in a night club as an undercover cop to get enough evidence against the owner of the club and meets the head of security, Ridley. It’s the first time he goes undercover and it’s not easy for him, especially as he also has to deal with family issue with his nephew popping up after a huge row with his father and with his strong attraction to Ridley, who is among the bad guys.
My niggles : the plot, starting strong, went a bit shaky for me and with some holes by the end, and I felt uncomfortable with Mahir’s nephew’s part in it.
But that asides : Mahir and Ridley were really hot together and their interaction intense and delightfully interesting for me. Just for that, it was a winner !!!
January 30, 2019
Too much teenage drama, too much sex and too little professionalism. I've been mad since 27% but as Teal told me, that was only the beginning. The worst was to come. This isn't a bad book, but it wasn't what I was looking for, not what the blurb promised.
My biggest problem was I couldn't believe an undercover cop would behave like that, even less that two undercover cops would do all that. And that, well, I can overlook if I have enough story running on the book, but it wasn't the case.
This book has too many sex scenes and some of them, for me, were plain boring. I even fall asleep reading one of them because it was dragging for too many pages and when I woke up I was in the middle of it and I couldn't remember who was doing what to whom. So I skipped to the plot, but then I was tangled into some teenager drama. That part didn't work for me at all. I have zero to no patience with teenagers, well I have plenty when I'm at work, but in my own time, no thanks. I don't wan't anything to do with all that unresolved angst and that feeling of being wronged because the Universe conspires against you. For me Kinza wasn't a sweet confused teenager but a spoil brat. I mean, I understand he must be confused but following his uncle despite knowing he is working undercover? OMG! Just no. And everything that went afterwards was way over the top. I think it would have worked better if Mahir didn't have all that side drama going on and find his nephew tangled in the mess by surprise. All that solution he and Ridley cooked up to crack their case was unbeliable. Everytime they keep saying the have no other option, I was thinking... Can you please call your respective bosses and proceed from there??
Well, maybe I expect too much when I pick up a book with law enforcement in it or maybe it was timing, but I wish this would have played out differently.
My biggest problem was I couldn't believe an undercover cop would behave like that, even less that two undercover cops would do all that. And that, well, I can overlook if I have enough story running on the book, but it wasn't the case.
This book has too many sex scenes and some of them, for me, were plain boring. I even fall asleep reading one of them because it was dragging for too many pages and when I woke up I was in the middle of it and I couldn't remember who was doing what to whom. So I skipped to the plot, but then I was tangled into some teenager drama. That part didn't work for me at all. I have zero to no patience with teenagers, well I have plenty when I'm at work, but in my own time, no thanks. I don't wan't anything to do with all that unresolved angst and that feeling of being wronged because the Universe conspires against you. For me Kinza wasn't a sweet confused teenager but a spoil brat. I mean, I understand he must be confused but following his uncle despite knowing he is working undercover? OMG! Just no. And everything that went afterwards was way over the top. I think it would have worked better if Mahir didn't have all that side drama going on and find his nephew tangled in the mess by surprise. All that solution he and Ridley cooked up to crack their case was unbeliable. Everytime they keep saying the have no other option, I was thinking... Can you please call your respective bosses and proceed from there??
Well, maybe I expect too much when I pick up a book with law enforcement in it or maybe it was timing, but I wish this would have played out differently.
May 23, 2014
2.5 stars
I enjoyed the first half of this book, but it went downhill when everyone began making extremely stupid decisions. I'm no undercover cop, but it didn't seem believable to me that Mahir
I lost track of how many plot holes I came across, and that's not something I typically notice so these were gaping. It had such a promising beginning, but unfortunately turned into a bit of a disappointment for me.
P.S.
I enjoyed the first half of this book, but it went downhill when everyone began making extremely stupid decisions. I'm no undercover cop, but it didn't seem believable to me that Mahir
I lost track of how many plot holes I came across, and that's not something I typically notice so these were gaping. It had such a promising beginning, but unfortunately turned into a bit of a disappointment for me.
P.S.
currently-paused
April 15, 2015*ARC via Netgalley*
omg omg i am so happy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i have been checking this title and one more on riptide pub., and i can't believe i can read an arc ♡ and there is preorder available for new sidewinder, and soon my ball & chain will arrive.... and this is just happy day for me .... and i am starting this tomorrow for sure ♡
omg omg i am so happy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i have been checking this title and one more on riptide pub., and i can't believe i can read an arc ♡ and there is preorder available for new sidewinder, and soon my ball & chain will arrive.... and this is just happy day for me .... and i am starting this tomorrow for sure ♡
August 23, 2018
This was a tense read at times - suspense really can play havoc ! I liked this book, but it didn’t quite grab me as I expected - a good read if you enjoy undercover angst.
probably-not-but-freebie
November 5, 2018Freebie at amazon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Hostile-Grou...
July 25, 2014
AAAaaarrrgh!
This book. This... no. Okay, this book gets two ratings because I say so.
Scorch Factor: 5 stars
Believability Factor: 1 star
Mahir and Ridley are ridiculously hot together. Like yum-yum, sweet baby jesus--YES! Every moment of the two of them together is simply delicious, finger-licking or any other body part good. On the other hand, Mahir as an undercover operative and the whole subplot including Kinza--FAIL. I guarantee you he'd have a close gunshot wound to the back of the head. There are multiple instances where he made colossally bad decisions that I just wanted stop reading. Just no. NO. I think my rating is a bit on the generous side with 3 stars and I may revisit it.
Favorite quote:
This book. This... no. Okay, this book gets two ratings because I say so.
Scorch Factor: 5 stars
Believability Factor: 1 star
Mahir and Ridley are ridiculously hot together. Like yum-yum, sweet baby jesus--YES! Every moment of the two of them together is simply delicious, finger-licking or any other body part good. On the other hand, Mahir as an undercover operative and the whole subplot including Kinza--FAIL. I guarantee you he'd have a close gunshot wound to the back of the head. There are multiple instances where he made colossally bad decisions that I just wanted stop reading. Just no. NO. I think my rating is a bit on the generous side with 3 stars and I may revisit it.
Favorite quote:
Blah, blah, blah, don’t fuck with my shit, blah, blah, blah, I’ll fucking kill you, yawn, is it lunchtime yet?
August 12, 2016
***Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review***
This review is posted on WAY TOO HOT BOOKS.
I saw this book on Netgalley and what can I say- the resistance was futile. I just had to have it and then I did and everything else was of less importance and I'm not even sorry after reading it.
Whoever is familiar with the work of L.A. Witt & A. Voinov knows what to expect when these two authors write a book together. Two strong, bad-ass and way too hot dirty-talkers. Lots of action, mind games & super-hot sex. Just my type of a book, what's there not to love?
I was hooked from the very beginning. The story focuses on Mahir Hussain, a Muslim detective going undercover in one of the biggest and most dangerous cases of his life.
Driven by hatred and revenge, he gets involved in one of the most dangerous underground mobs dealing with drugs and prostitution with one goal only- take down their organisation and its boss or die trying. He was sure that nothing can distract him from his goal, but then he meets David Ridley, the cold and deadly head of security of this organisation.
Ridley's hand left Mahir's neck and went up into his hair. He grabbed it, pulled back, and they were suddenly eye to eye and breathless, staring each other down. Okay, this was getting out of control quickly.
Ridley didn't let go of Mahir's hair. His other hand, though, moved behind them, nudging Mahir's hips back. Eyes locked, neither of them looked away, but when Ridley's belt buckle jingled, they both pulled in sharp breaths.
Then came the zipper. Oh fuck.
"To answer your question-" Ridley paused to lick his lips"- yes. That was an invitation."
From the moment they set each eyes on each other their relationship becomes explosive & passionate, but filled with mistrust and unstoppable fighting for control, both in and out of bedroom. The chemistry between them was scorching hot and the sex scenes? Oh boy...I know I say this for every book written by A. Voinov, but there's not a doubt about it- one of the best & hottest I've read. I'll leave it at that, because my thoughts about those parts are highly inappropriate and would need a strong censorship and we wouldn't want that, would we ;)?
Everything starts as a big mind game between them with Mahir becoming Saed in order to gain Ridley's trust who keeps testing him since the moment he sets his foot in his office. No one crossed the strong and calculating Ridley and lived to tell, but when feelings get involved, everything is put at stake.
The guy with the icy stare behind the dark sunglasses- he could shoot a cop and not blink. The one who'd left Mahir aching all over, and who had seemed just as unhappy as Mahir that they couldn't continue things, wasn't murderer. He couldn't be. Could he?
The story was action-packed, interesting and well-written.
I loved everything about it, from the plot to the amazing characters. I liked that one of the characters was a Muslim for a change and that we were given insight into their culture too, especially when it comes to sexuality and breaking the tradition. What I especially like about these two authors is that when it comes to romance, their books are never cheesy.
The romance was emotional and passionate like always, but it wasn't exaggerated with corny lines and situations which some authors have tendency to use and what always ruins the story for me. They don't overuse cheesy lines to create romantic atmosphere, but the romance here is more subtle, showed through a simple touch or word of deeper meaning and those emotional moments are among my favorites.
I highly recommend this book to every MM fan. You just can't miss with these two authors. Buy the book & dive in!
"This is so dangerous," Ridley whispered. His eyes narrowed a little, and he grinned. God, but he was the most enticing, unnerving combination of the two sides of the man Mahir had come to know. The hand on Mahir's cheek slid into hair. Thightened. Pulled. Mahir surrendered, letting himself be drawn in, and just before their lips met, Ridley said, "I like it dangerous."
MY INITAL REACTION WHEN I GOT MY ARC APRROVED:
This review is posted on WAY TOO HOT BOOKS.
I saw this book on Netgalley and what can I say- the resistance was futile. I just had to have it and then I did and everything else was of less importance and I'm not even sorry after reading it.
Whoever is familiar with the work of L.A. Witt & A. Voinov knows what to expect when these two authors write a book together. Two strong, bad-ass and way too hot dirty-talkers. Lots of action, mind games & super-hot sex. Just my type of a book, what's there not to love?
I was hooked from the very beginning. The story focuses on Mahir Hussain, a Muslim detective going undercover in one of the biggest and most dangerous cases of his life.
Driven by hatred and revenge, he gets involved in one of the most dangerous underground mobs dealing with drugs and prostitution with one goal only- take down their organisation and its boss or die trying. He was sure that nothing can distract him from his goal, but then he meets David Ridley, the cold and deadly head of security of this organisation.
Ridley's hand left Mahir's neck and went up into his hair. He grabbed it, pulled back, and they were suddenly eye to eye and breathless, staring each other down. Okay, this was getting out of control quickly.
Ridley didn't let go of Mahir's hair. His other hand, though, moved behind them, nudging Mahir's hips back. Eyes locked, neither of them looked away, but when Ridley's belt buckle jingled, they both pulled in sharp breaths.
Then came the zipper. Oh fuck.
"To answer your question-" Ridley paused to lick his lips"- yes. That was an invitation."
From the moment they set each eyes on each other their relationship becomes explosive & passionate, but filled with mistrust and unstoppable fighting for control, both in and out of bedroom. The chemistry between them was scorching hot and the sex scenes? Oh boy...I know I say this for every book written by A. Voinov, but there's not a doubt about it- one of the best & hottest I've read. I'll leave it at that, because my thoughts about those parts are highly inappropriate and would need a strong censorship and we wouldn't want that, would we ;)?
Everything starts as a big mind game between them with Mahir becoming Saed in order to gain Ridley's trust who keeps testing him since the moment he sets his foot in his office. No one crossed the strong and calculating Ridley and lived to tell, but when feelings get involved, everything is put at stake.
The guy with the icy stare behind the dark sunglasses- he could shoot a cop and not blink. The one who'd left Mahir aching all over, and who had seemed just as unhappy as Mahir that they couldn't continue things, wasn't murderer. He couldn't be. Could he?
The story was action-packed, interesting and well-written.
I loved everything about it, from the plot to the amazing characters. I liked that one of the characters was a Muslim for a change and that we were given insight into their culture too, especially when it comes to sexuality and breaking the tradition. What I especially like about these two authors is that when it comes to romance, their books are never cheesy.
The romance was emotional and passionate like always, but it wasn't exaggerated with corny lines and situations which some authors have tendency to use and what always ruins the story for me. They don't overuse cheesy lines to create romantic atmosphere, but the romance here is more subtle, showed through a simple touch or word of deeper meaning and those emotional moments are among my favorites.
I highly recommend this book to every MM fan. You just can't miss with these two authors. Buy the book & dive in!
"This is so dangerous," Ridley whispered. His eyes narrowed a little, and he grinned. God, but he was the most enticing, unnerving combination of the two sides of the man Mahir had come to know. The hand on Mahir's cheek slid into hair. Thightened. Pulled. Mahir surrendered, letting himself be drawn in, and just before their lips met, Ridley said, "I like it dangerous."
MY INITAL REACTION WHEN I GOT MY ARC APRROVED:
May 26, 2014
Undercover cops, bad ass boss', psycho drug lords, hot, hot hot, down and dirty sex and edge of your seat situations! If that's what you're looking for in your next read then you won't go wrong picking up Hostile Ground.
When American born, Syrian, ex US military, Detective Mahir Hussain is sent undercover inside psycho drug dealer Gene Lombardi's strip club, to investigate the deaths of three other undercover cops before him and to get more on the drug ring that the club is a cover for, he certainly isn't expecting to find himself instantly attracted to the dangerous man who interviews him for the security post that he's applied for.
David Ridley, chief of security, is a stone cold killer, or so it would appear from the info they have on him. Rumoured to be the one who pulls the trigger on traitors and second in command to Lombardi, he's feared and respected by the guys who work under him because they know, if they step out of line or if there's even the slightest smell of cop around them, they're dust!
Mahir 'becomes' Saeed and about 30 mins into his interview with the security boss, Ridley has him bending, not only over his desk; but to his will in a really hot sex scene, that sets the tone for their relationship from the word go. You just know that this isn't going to bode well for him but at the same time you can totally understand why he would be tempted by this unpredictable, menacing guy, because Ridley, like all bad boys, is one sexy mo-fo and Mahir, is drawn to him like a moth to a flame. All the security staff are gay, including Ridley because Lombardi adheres to the notion that gay guys won't mess with his girls, therefore keeping their minds on the job and what's going on under the radar...the drugs operation. However, he also frowns on his men fraternising, above and beyond the odd casual BJ, so for Mahir to even contemplate anything (other than the first test of his sexuality) with Ridley, is madness!
On top of the danger he faces on the job, Mahir (Saeed) also has to deal with his troubled 17 year old nephew Kinza, who turns up on his doorstep the night before he starts his undercover investigation at the club. Kinza is also gay and has left home because his father - Mahir's surgeon brother - has taken the news very badly. Unable to turn him away, because being gay, he's also suffered the disdain and temper of his brother, Mahir then has to juggle the two components without either one bleeding into the other. He can't let Kinza know anything about his undercover assignment, which causes some tension between him and his conflicted nephew, and he certainly can't let anyone at the club know about the boy because if his cover is blown it would not only put his life at risk but Kinza's too. So for most of the book Mahir is desperately trying to balance his dual existence, whilst fighting his attraction and ever growing lust for the enigmatic Ridley, who starts to get under his skin...badly! His hold over the undercover cop is almost hypnotic.
' Ridley laughed. He kissed the side of Mahir's neck. "You'd do anything I told you to, wouldn't you?"
Mahir is all male, normally a top but with this man he finds himself submitting far more easily than he ever thought possible.
'Ridley's hand slowed even more, nearly stopping. "I asked you a question."
Mahir moistened his lips. "Yes I would."
OMG! The sex between these two is scorching!!! They can't keep their hands off each other but at the same time there's still this element of heightened danger oozing from Ridley. He's constantly testing 'Saeed' threatening him with consequences of what will happen if he does find out he's lying and Mahir is torn between sheer lust, apprehension and fear of being discovered. He knows getting involved with a man like David Ridley is utter lunacy, especially with what's at stake but the man is like a magnet and there are times, during their sizzling encounters, when he sees fleeting glimpses of a different, warmer Ridley, under the usual cold, hardened exterior. Then there's the rest of the guys at the club. Not only does he have to put up with racist comments about his Muslim background and prove himself but he has to keep them from seeing the relationship developing between him and Ridley. But despite everything going on in the background, the two of them still can't resist indulging this dangerous passion, so whichever path he takes he's basically fucked either way!
' Mahir surrendered letting himself be drawn in, and just before their lips met Ridley said,
"I like it dangerous."
Talk about delivering a gut punch just before robbing the last bit of his breath. No trace of the bitterness he'd spied in the car, no trace of anything but Ridley at his sexiest, most dangerous. And yes those two things did go hand in hand, damn them both: Mahir for happily jumping off the cliff, and Ridley for getting him to the edge and whispering, jump.'
Things start to escalate and far more dangerous secrets are unearthed that put all of them, including Kinza, in the firing line and the story kicks into high gear moving along at a fast, but easy pace, with plenty of twists and turns. Some, like me, I'm pretty sure you'll guess... but some you won't see coming. Sometimes the characters made decisions that personally I found myself questioning, especially around Kinza, who also had his moments...there were occasions when as much as I realised he was young and hurting I still wanted to shake him for some of his attitude, and the acts he pulled because of it, towards the man who was trying his best to protect him in a very volatile situation, plus I also thought some of the actions of the two MC's slightly contradicted their gritty personalities at times but at the end of the day this is what it is...a highly enjoyable, crime based, suspense drama with plenty kick ass action so I ended up just sitting back, letting most of that wash over me. The bad guys are suitably nasty, the good guys are righteous and the sex is shit hot! It's Aleks and Lori...what do you expect! Is it my favourite of theirs, either writing separately or co authoring? In all honesty, no its probably not ...but did I enjoy it? Oh hell yeah...I liked it a lot! At the end of the day, it's all about escapism and who doesn't want to escape sometimes!
Follow link~ http://bit.ly/1kEYu19
When American born, Syrian, ex US military, Detective Mahir Hussain is sent undercover inside psycho drug dealer Gene Lombardi's strip club, to investigate the deaths of three other undercover cops before him and to get more on the drug ring that the club is a cover for, he certainly isn't expecting to find himself instantly attracted to the dangerous man who interviews him for the security post that he's applied for.
David Ridley, chief of security, is a stone cold killer, or so it would appear from the info they have on him. Rumoured to be the one who pulls the trigger on traitors and second in command to Lombardi, he's feared and respected by the guys who work under him because they know, if they step out of line or if there's even the slightest smell of cop around them, they're dust!
Mahir 'becomes' Saeed and about 30 mins into his interview with the security boss, Ridley has him bending, not only over his desk; but to his will in a really hot sex scene, that sets the tone for their relationship from the word go. You just know that this isn't going to bode well for him but at the same time you can totally understand why he would be tempted by this unpredictable, menacing guy, because Ridley, like all bad boys, is one sexy mo-fo and Mahir, is drawn to him like a moth to a flame. All the security staff are gay, including Ridley because Lombardi adheres to the notion that gay guys won't mess with his girls, therefore keeping their minds on the job and what's going on under the radar...the drugs operation. However, he also frowns on his men fraternising, above and beyond the odd casual BJ, so for Mahir to even contemplate anything (other than the first test of his sexuality) with Ridley, is madness!
On top of the danger he faces on the job, Mahir (Saeed) also has to deal with his troubled 17 year old nephew Kinza, who turns up on his doorstep the night before he starts his undercover investigation at the club. Kinza is also gay and has left home because his father - Mahir's surgeon brother - has taken the news very badly. Unable to turn him away, because being gay, he's also suffered the disdain and temper of his brother, Mahir then has to juggle the two components without either one bleeding into the other. He can't let Kinza know anything about his undercover assignment, which causes some tension between him and his conflicted nephew, and he certainly can't let anyone at the club know about the boy because if his cover is blown it would not only put his life at risk but Kinza's too. So for most of the book Mahir is desperately trying to balance his dual existence, whilst fighting his attraction and ever growing lust for the enigmatic Ridley, who starts to get under his skin...badly! His hold over the undercover cop is almost hypnotic.
' Ridley laughed. He kissed the side of Mahir's neck. "You'd do anything I told you to, wouldn't you?"
Mahir is all male, normally a top but with this man he finds himself submitting far more easily than he ever thought possible.
'Ridley's hand slowed even more, nearly stopping. "I asked you a question."
Mahir moistened his lips. "Yes I would."
OMG! The sex between these two is scorching!!! They can't keep their hands off each other but at the same time there's still this element of heightened danger oozing from Ridley. He's constantly testing 'Saeed' threatening him with consequences of what will happen if he does find out he's lying and Mahir is torn between sheer lust, apprehension and fear of being discovered. He knows getting involved with a man like David Ridley is utter lunacy, especially with what's at stake but the man is like a magnet and there are times, during their sizzling encounters, when he sees fleeting glimpses of a different, warmer Ridley, under the usual cold, hardened exterior. Then there's the rest of the guys at the club. Not only does he have to put up with racist comments about his Muslim background and prove himself but he has to keep them from seeing the relationship developing between him and Ridley. But despite everything going on in the background, the two of them still can't resist indulging this dangerous passion, so whichever path he takes he's basically fucked either way!
' Mahir surrendered letting himself be drawn in, and just before their lips met Ridley said,
"I like it dangerous."
Talk about delivering a gut punch just before robbing the last bit of his breath. No trace of the bitterness he'd spied in the car, no trace of anything but Ridley at his sexiest, most dangerous. And yes those two things did go hand in hand, damn them both: Mahir for happily jumping off the cliff, and Ridley for getting him to the edge and whispering, jump.'
Things start to escalate and far more dangerous secrets are unearthed that put all of them, including Kinza, in the firing line and the story kicks into high gear moving along at a fast, but easy pace, with plenty of twists and turns. Some, like me, I'm pretty sure you'll guess... but some you won't see coming. Sometimes the characters made decisions that personally I found myself questioning, especially around Kinza, who also had his moments...there were occasions when as much as I realised he was young and hurting I still wanted to shake him for some of his attitude, and the acts he pulled because of it, towards the man who was trying his best to protect him in a very volatile situation, plus I also thought some of the actions of the two MC's slightly contradicted their gritty personalities at times but at the end of the day this is what it is...a highly enjoyable, crime based, suspense drama with plenty kick ass action so I ended up just sitting back, letting most of that wash over me. The bad guys are suitably nasty, the good guys are righteous and the sex is shit hot! It's Aleks and Lori...what do you expect! Is it my favourite of theirs, either writing separately or co authoring? In all honesty, no its probably not ...but did I enjoy it? Oh hell yeah...I liked it a lot! At the end of the day, it's all about escapism and who doesn't want to escape sometimes!
Follow link~ http://bit.ly/1kEYu19
May 21, 2014
★★★★ 4 Smoldering-and-Action-Packed Stars★★★★
This was an amazing collaboration between Voinov and Witt that I thoroughly enjoyed. The writing was definitely phenomenal, as can be expected from these two awesome M/M veteran authors. Everything that the authors wanted the readers to feel, I certainly felt. I felt my blood pound and adrenaline rush during the intense action-filled scenes. Whatever Mahir felt during those scenes, I did too.
And, whoa boy, don't even let me get started on the smex. It was off-the-fucking-charts smoking hot! Like I said in my status, these two should have come equipped with a warning label: cold shower abso-fucking-lutely required!
Here's just a tiny, little taste of the heat that these two bring to the page when they burn it up:
But under the menacing façade, Mahir notices that there is a man that he really gets along with, one who is making him feel things that he has never felt before, and could fall in love with.
Even though I enjoyed the book so much, there were a couple things I had to take some points off for. I did not like Mahir's nephew Kinza at all. He was living with Mahir in the novel because his father found out Kinza is gay, and he did not feel safe staying at his own home, forcing him to seek refuge with his uncle until his dad can calm down. I know teenagers make some stupid-ass decisions for various reasons, but this kid, holy fuck, this kid did throughout the entire damn book...
This kid was a true fidiot (☜ yes, I am shamelessly stealing that term from my GR friend Rosa). He kept making these dumbass choices and then Mahir kept taking responsibility for his nephew's dumbass choices, which was not cool at all. I get Mahir feeling guilty for not being able to keep a close eye on Kinza while working his case, but this kid needed to take some freaking blame for his dumbassery. I wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall multiple times because of this twerp, and it took some of the enjoyment from the story for me.
The other thing that bothered me about this book was the abrupt ending. Don't get me wrong, we get our HEA but not much more. We get only small tidbits of what their lives together will be, but there are still so many unanswered questions. I would have just liked to know about their future together with more certainty.
But, overall, this was a solid read for me, and I definitely enjoyed it. If you are looking for a scorching M/M romance between two alphas and a mystery/crime subplot, then this is definitely a book for you.
This was an amazing collaboration between Voinov and Witt that I thoroughly enjoyed. The writing was definitely phenomenal, as can be expected from these two awesome M/M veteran authors. Everything that the authors wanted the readers to feel, I certainly felt. I felt my blood pound and adrenaline rush during the intense action-filled scenes. Whatever Mahir felt during those scenes, I did too.
And, whoa boy, don't even let me get started on the smex. It was off-the-fucking-charts smoking hot! Like I said in my status, these two should have come equipped with a warning label: cold shower abso-fucking-lutely required!
Here's just a tiny, little taste of the heat that these two bring to the page when they burn it up:
He grabbed Mahir's neck and kissed him - one of those open-mouthed, passionate kisses that were all about let's fuck. It caught him by surprise, but his body responded immediately, opened up under the onslaught. Every time Ridley tried to invade his mouth, he countered and tried to claim Ridley's instead. He pushed forward, backed Ridley against the desk, and ground their hips together.
Mahir moistened his lips. "Yes. I would."I definitely liked both of the MCs. Mahir, a Seattle PD detective, goes undercover at a club that is owned by the crime boss Lombardi, which all of the alphabet agencies suspect fronts as a drug ring. His job has made it very hard for Mahir to find a lover for various reasons. Some cannot put up with his working hours and the fact that Mahir will always put the job first, that's just the way he is. Other lovers see Mahir as this tough, bad-ass cop who does not want or need the comfort, intimacy, and romance that a real relationship brings, and they are surprised when Mahir asks for these things. His inability to find a stable, romantic partner has left Mahir feeling lonely.
[...]"I want you to remember that," Ridley whispered. "That no matter what, you'll do anything I tell you. Because you will. Won't you?"
He'd bought all that space as an investment and had nothing to fill it with. Sometimes, when he spied families having a barbecue or carrying the shopping in, he felt the lack astutely. Maybe it was a cultural thing, but part of him hated being alone.Imagine Mahir's surprise when he goes undercover and finds himself feeling an intense attraction for the head of security, David Ridley, who is a total hard-ass with electric blue eyes that give true meaning to the phrase "if looks could kill."
Yeah, he was gay and he was attractive, but there was an air about him that made Mahir more than happy to stay on the opposite side of the room. The guy radiated a menacing intensity. A focused, predatory aura that pulled all of Mahir's nerves taut.
But under the menacing façade, Mahir notices that there is a man that he really gets along with, one who is making him feel things that he has never felt before, and could fall in love with.
It was because Ridley's presence made his blood sing, turned him on, sped up his thoughts. Made him feel real and anchored in the present. He liked Ridley...The writers did a tremendous job on taking us on a journey with these two men who fell in love on enemy ground and watching them working hard to bring about their happy ending when they are under the thumb of a truly evil man and when everything seems so hopeless. And because this book was a cop drama, there was, of course, a lot of focus on the mystery/crime aspect of the novel. I, however, did not feel that the the crime subplot overtook the romance. I thought there was a perfect 50-50 blend, which is the best, personally, I can ask for of a cop story.
Even though I enjoyed the book so much, there were a couple things I had to take some points off for. I did not like Mahir's nephew Kinza at all. He was living with Mahir in the novel because his father found out Kinza is gay, and he did not feel safe staying at his own home, forcing him to seek refuge with his uncle until his dad can calm down. I know teenagers make some stupid-ass decisions for various reasons, but this kid, holy fuck, this kid did throughout the entire damn book...
This kid was a true fidiot (☜ yes, I am shamelessly stealing that term from my GR friend Rosa). He kept making these dumbass choices and then Mahir kept taking responsibility for his nephew's dumbass choices, which was not cool at all. I get Mahir feeling guilty for not being able to keep a close eye on Kinza while working his case, but this kid needed to take some freaking blame for his dumbassery. I wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall multiple times because of this twerp, and it took some of the enjoyment from the story for me.
The other thing that bothered me about this book was the abrupt ending. Don't get me wrong, we get our HEA but not much more. We get only small tidbits of what their lives together will be, but there are still so many unanswered questions. I would have just liked to know about their future together with more certainty.
But, overall, this was a solid read for me, and I definitely enjoyed it. If you are looking for a scorching M/M romance between two alphas and a mystery/crime subplot, then this is definitely a book for you.
May 10, 2014
4.5 star review by The Blogger Girls.
I love a good undercover story, one where the agent goes deep, for an undetermined amount of time, to the point that the lines where their two lives blur and they run the risk of truly becoming the person they are portraying, not unlike one of my favorite movies, Donnie Brasco.
Here, Mahir, being a single gay man (though not out to his colleagues) seems perfect for going undercover to bust the head of the illegal operations taking place in the club which only hires gay men. After the deaths of the three previous officers who attempted the same, Mahir takes on the persona of Saeed. His first obstacle, is passing the tests of the head of security, a dangerous, cold man known as Ridley. These guys play some pretty heavy head games and manipulations, but no question, the chemistry is there. Needless to say, after some edgy scenes, Saeed passes the tests and begins his employment.
As time goes on, Saeed learns there is much more to the investigation than previously assumed, and he is determined to get to the bottom of it. In the meantime, he and Ridley continue with their games. This is more than just some run-of-the-mill drug ring, as there are young boys involved as couriers that bring up many questions and eventually become the focus of the operation. The goal here is to make it long enough to take down the head of the crime ring, Lombardi, who is just an evil bastard.
To back up just a bit, Mahir has some other issues going on that pop up right in the beginning of his assignment, namely his young nephew showing up on his doorstep after being kicked out of his house for being gay. So, this puts even more stress on Mahir as he struggles with helping his nephew, trying to keep his two identities separate and keep his sanity about everything he is seeing and has invariably become involved in.
There is a lot going on in this story, and I was on the edge of my seat for most of it. The sex is super hot, almost always with the hint of danger spurring it on. The dialog and actions had me feeling as though I was undercover with Saeed. There are a few twists that change the story a bit, but it is fast-paced and edgy. All in all, a very exciting, well-written read.
May 10, 2014
3.5 stars
There are some things that work for me in this book, and some that don’t.
The first thing that hits me, that I really like, is the duality. Mahir, our deep undercover cop investigating a strip club for drug running, is of Arabic descent and a Muslim. So, he stands out, already carries the weight of that, living in the U.S. post 9/11.
For me, Mahir is the most interesting thing in the story.
He, of course, has to assume an alias, a persona he is constantly at odds with. To prove himself to the strip club’s head-of-security, Ridley, Mahir-a.k.a.-Saeed has to do stuff a cop shouldn’t feel comfortable doing. He is a clean cop, loyal, ethical, sensitive. But he has drugs and sex thrown at him as a test. And, Mahir is in the closet/gay; he gets hired at the strip club because he’s gay… complicated. It seems the club owner doesn’t want anyone screwing around (literally) with the women strippers. So gay security is the way to go.
Arabic descent, Muslim, and gay under-operative… things get even more complicated for Mahir when he figures out that Ridley plays for the same team.
The case: Three cops have been killed working undercover at the strip club. It seems that selling lap dances is just the tip of the dirty business the club is involved in. Mahir/Saeed is told at the beginning that Ridley is responsible for rooting out and offing the undercover cops. This is how Ridley gets the rep at the club of being a hard-ass killer you don’t want to mess with. How the authors reckon this with a budding romance/sexing-up between two seemingly very disparate men is what kept me reading.
So Mahir starts work as club security and it doesn’t take long before he realizes that stripping and prostitution are just the tip of what’s going on in the club. And some pretty heavy stuff starts brewing between him and Ridley. There are frequent hook ups in Ridley’s office at the club to get things hot and steamy. Mahir/Saeed wants to find out what’s up with Ridley. Ridley wants to get-off.
I think what held me back from romance-magic is that it all happened so quickly. Mahir/Saeed shows up for a job interview at the club, passes the test by giving head to Ridley, and then, BAM, they’re fucking regularly. In Ridley’s office. In the middle of this nest of viper-bad criminals. It’s obvious there is a physical connection but why should two inherently suspicious, closed-down, professional guys make that jump so quickly? There wasn’t enough on the page to convince me. And the constant danger of it made it less believable.
Of course it’s that danger, that danger of being caught… that makes it hot for Mahir and Ridley. Duality. They are hot together, they do walk a thin moral line in the work they do, and they are, each of them, interesting characters, but as a couple… Ridley remains a mystery… I just didn’t feel it.
I did find Mahir and his personal and family issues and how they get tangled up in the job, to be the most interesting element here. The danger that he puts himself and his family in, to do his job, makes for some great tension. How far he goes in endangering them through some pretty stupid actions of his own makes for great reading.
The chatty, over-written style where we are privy to the characters’ every inner thought and every action doesn’t help much-- it doesn’t allow much mystery to them. It reminds me of other widely popular stories and characters that I have similar issues with… Abigail Roux’ Cut & Run, SE Jake’s Hell or High Water series. Those are also all about guys who hop to it, often without thinking, and all of them undercover agents working dangerous jobs. I’m thinking that for me this combo doesn’t work as well as it does for many other readers. If you are a fan of these series in this undercover/spy romance genre, then you will probably really enjoy Hostile Ground. For me, it was a mixed bag.
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January 7, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2019/07/01/...
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
July 3, 2021
Reread just 'cause I'm in the mood for it.
1st read 10/9/15 I liked every bit of this.
So, yeah, some parts of this were pretty hard to believe and some easily guessed. The rest though, I found thoroughly engrossing. I'm sure there are some pretty awful things that UC law enforcement would have to do on a case. The interactions with Mahir and his nephew, and the impact their faith and culture had on them was fascinating. It was also thought provoking considering all the casual and overt prejudices Mahir had to deal with. I chalked other events up to fictional license and just enjoyed the story. The sex between Saeed/Mahir and David/Ridley was seriously hot. I loved the Market Garden series so I finally decided to read this one. So glad I did.
1st read 10/9/15 I liked every bit of this.
So, yeah, some parts of this were pretty hard to believe and some easily guessed. The rest though, I found thoroughly engrossing. I'm sure there are some pretty awful things that UC law enforcement would have to do on a case. The interactions with Mahir and his nephew, and the impact their faith and culture had on them was fascinating. It was also thought provoking considering all the casual and overt prejudices Mahir had to deal with. I chalked other events up to fictional license and just enjoyed the story. The sex between Saeed/Mahir and David/Ridley was seriously hot. I loved the Market Garden series so I finally decided to read this one. So glad I did.
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