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K-9 Rescue #2
Force of Attraction
The only thing more powerful than fear is desire...
A seasoned K-9 officer with the police in Maryland, Cole Jamison has left her old life behind her. With a new home and a new partner-a protective canine named Hugo-Cole is ready for fresh challenges. A crucial position on an important drug task force is exactly what she wants...until she discovers her gorgeous, infuriating ex-husband will be the DEA agent in charge.
FORCE OF ATTRACTION
Agent Scott Lucca may be a pro when it comes to undercover assignments, but this job is daunting even for him. Posing as a happy couple on the dog competition circuit means he and Cole need to get a lot closer than they've been in years. Playing a live-in couple should seem like a walk in the park compared to tracking a brutal criminal, but suddenly nothing could be more dangerous than the passionate fire they've rekindled...
A seasoned K-9 officer with the police in Maryland, Cole Jamison has left her old life behind her. With a new home and a new partner-a protective canine named Hugo-Cole is ready for fresh challenges. A crucial position on an important drug task force is exactly what she wants...until she discovers her gorgeous, infuriating ex-husband will be the DEA agent in charge.
FORCE OF ATTRACTION
Agent Scott Lucca may be a pro when it comes to undercover assignments, but this job is daunting even for him. Posing as a happy couple on the dog competition circuit means he and Cole need to get a lot closer than they've been in years. Playing a live-in couple should seem like a walk in the park compared to tracking a brutal criminal, but suddenly nothing could be more dangerous than the passionate fire they've rekindled...
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 31, 2015
111 people are currently reading
872 people want to read
About the author
D.D. Ayres
9 books328 followersD. D. Ayres is the author of the K-9 Rescue series which includes Primal Force and Force of Attraction. She loves men in uniforms and dogs, making the K-9 Rescue series with St. Martin's Press a dream come true. She currently lives in Texas where she's at work on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 16, 2018
Quick summary
K-9 Officer Nicole (Cole) Jamieson gets a big surprise when she discovers the DEA task force she's asked to join will be headed by her ex-husband, Scott Lucca. It's an undercover assignment requiring them to be a couple. Too bad their marriage ended in a spectacularly bad way.
A bit of background
Scott's now a DEA K-9 Officer, too, after having worked SWAT and deeply undercover. His undercover role is what killed his marriage (and I mean killed). His K-9 partner is a chocolate Lab named Izzy. Cole's partner is a Bouvier des Flandres (yes, I had to Google the breed) named Hugo.
What I enjoyed
The K-9 aspect of this series continues to be the highlight. I learn something more with each book and because the undercover operation focused on the canines, they were front and center. Hugo had to participate in competitions and that was just fascinating.
It wasn't all about the dogs, though, as Cole and Scott's relationship was combustible...before, during and after their marriage. He's as complicated as they come, making the romance unusually interesting. Nothing was easy with these two and it was a mature, realistic path to their reuniting. I liked that it was hard and unpredictable. Overlaying the tension coming from a seriously scary biker from Scott's old undercover role, this was a most interesting story.
What drove me nuts
Nicole's insane number of names. Everyone calls her Cole except for Scott who calls her Nikki. When she goes undercover she becomes Noel. Yes, I got confused often.
The bottom line
I love how the K-9 aspect of the stories are true to this series. It is about them and their handlers. The suspense was pretty high with a really exciting climax. Scott and Cole's romance was tough and I liked getting both of their points of view. I'm still enjoying the series and this one's the best so far.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
October 14, 2024
Can be read as a stand-a-lone.
I have come to really love the K-9’s in this series. You can tell that the author knows her dog breeds and has done her research on training, showing, and all things related to K-9’s. This in-depth and accurate portray just adds to my enjoyment.
Force of Attraction is book two in the K-9 Rescue series by D.D. Ayres.
Cole and Scott have a serious past. They walked away from each other instead of working things out. Now they are partnered up together to work an undercover assignment, but Scott’s past and undercover work is coming back. The past is far from buried; between these two.
A second chance romance with a little mystery and intrigue throughout the story. We are whisking into a world of drug trafficking, the dog agility circuit, bikers, and undercover police work. Add in our 4 main characters, Hugo and Izzy, Cole and Scott’s police dogs and you have a delightful read.
I will say Hugo stole the show for me. I just love Hugo and Izzy, the K-9’s.
I did had some issues with a few things in Force of Attraction, but I still ended up enjoying the novel. For one I didn’t care for the first sex scene. She was getting into character and being the character when she had sex with Scott and he went along with it. These two needed to get everything out in the open, before they got intimate with each other. I felt they didn’t need to have that much intimacies to pull things off and they weren’t ready to go their, at least in my eyes. They had to much to discuss and resolve from the past first. I also wasn’t fully on board with the undercover angel in this novel. They can be a couple, but not have to get as intimate as they did. It all comes down to them not getting it all out there; before they stared their undercover work.
Force of Attraction was entertaining and enjoyable. All in all, I enjoyed this book. This series is engaging and fascinating. I recommend picking up the K-9 Rescue series.
Rated: 3 Stars
I have come to really love the K-9’s in this series. You can tell that the author knows her dog breeds and has done her research on training, showing, and all things related to K-9’s. This in-depth and accurate portray just adds to my enjoyment.
Force of Attraction is book two in the K-9 Rescue series by D.D. Ayres.
Cole and Scott have a serious past. They walked away from each other instead of working things out. Now they are partnered up together to work an undercover assignment, but Scott’s past and undercover work is coming back. The past is far from buried; between these two.
A second chance romance with a little mystery and intrigue throughout the story. We are whisking into a world of drug trafficking, the dog agility circuit, bikers, and undercover police work. Add in our 4 main characters, Hugo and Izzy, Cole and Scott’s police dogs and you have a delightful read.
I will say Hugo stole the show for me. I just love Hugo and Izzy, the K-9’s.
I did had some issues with a few things in Force of Attraction, but I still ended up enjoying the novel. For one I didn’t care for the first sex scene. She was getting into character and being the character when she had sex with Scott and he went along with it. These two needed to get everything out in the open, before they got intimate with each other. I felt they didn’t need to have that much intimacies to pull things off and they weren’t ready to go their, at least in my eyes. They had to much to discuss and resolve from the past first. I also wasn’t fully on board with the undercover angel in this novel. They can be a couple, but not have to get as intimate as they did. It all comes down to them not getting it all out there; before they stared their undercover work.
Force of Attraction was entertaining and enjoyable. All in all, I enjoyed this book. This series is engaging and fascinating. I recommend picking up the K-9 Rescue series.
Rated: 3 Stars
January 21, 2016
After getting her heart broken by her undercover ex-husband Nicole left her old life behind her and she hasn't looked back. Now she puts all her focus into her own career and she loves working as a K9 officer with her dog Hugo. Unfortunately for Cole her latest assignment puts her in close contact with Scott and no matter how much she hates him for what he did to her she can't deny the attraction they still feel. Scott always regretted the way things ended between him and Nicole, he was so deep into his undercover assignment that he let their relationship break down and he wishes he could go back and do things differently. Now that he has a second chance to show Nicole how much he has changed he is determined to prove to her just how good they'll be together.
I always enjoy second chance romances and Force of Attraction was a great one. Nicole has changed a lot from the woman Scott was married to, she is much more independant and in control and the last thing she wants is to let Scott back and end up with her heart broken all over again. Scott is also different though, it took losing the woman he loved to make him understand just how much he had let her down and all he really wants is to win back her trust. The sparks start flying immediately but it takes a long time for Scott to break down Nicole's barriers and he really had to work hard to prove himself to her. I was really pleased that Nicole didn't give into him too easily, he had hurt her badly and it wouldn't have felt realistic if she'd just let him straight back into her life without pushing him.
One of the things I love most about this series is the dogs and they add plenty of humour in this book too. To investigate their case for the DEA Nicole goes undercover at dog shows with her K9 partner Hugo and Scott is posing as her supportive husband along with his dog Izzy. The two dogs cause plenty of mischief along the way but D.D. Ayres does a fantastic job of showing the working relationship between K9 handlers and their partners. These police teams do such amazing jobs and each book in the series so far has shown them in very different circumstances. The mystery and danger from the case they are working was well drawn out and kept me guessing until right near the end, the romance was hot and spicy and the characters were great. Force of Attraction is another winner and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
I always enjoy second chance romances and Force of Attraction was a great one. Nicole has changed a lot from the woman Scott was married to, she is much more independant and in control and the last thing she wants is to let Scott back and end up with her heart broken all over again. Scott is also different though, it took losing the woman he loved to make him understand just how much he had let her down and all he really wants is to win back her trust. The sparks start flying immediately but it takes a long time for Scott to break down Nicole's barriers and he really had to work hard to prove himself to her. I was really pleased that Nicole didn't give into him too easily, he had hurt her badly and it wouldn't have felt realistic if she'd just let him straight back into her life without pushing him.
One of the things I love most about this series is the dogs and they add plenty of humour in this book too. To investigate their case for the DEA Nicole goes undercover at dog shows with her K9 partner Hugo and Scott is posing as her supportive husband along with his dog Izzy. The two dogs cause plenty of mischief along the way but D.D. Ayres does a fantastic job of showing the working relationship between K9 handlers and their partners. These police teams do such amazing jobs and each book in the series so far has shown them in very different circumstances. The mystery and danger from the case they are working was well drawn out and kept me guessing until right near the end, the romance was hot and spicy and the characters were great. Force of Attraction is another winner and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
April 7, 2015
ARC Review
Originally posted at Love Affair with an E-Reader
Force of Attraction is book 2 in the K-9 Rescue series.
A big thumbs up for this book. Of the three books currently in this series, this is the most cohesive and well-balanced. The suspense plays very well into the romance.
Scott and Cole broke up while Scott was deep undercover in a white supremacist biker gang. Perhaps he took his role too seriously or maybe he was just in too deep, but the stress ruined his marriage. Cole always believed that he chose his job over her. Scott is also plagued by a sense of inadequacy, trying to live up to his can-do-no-wrong brother, Gabe, who was killed in battle.
After divorcing Scott, Cole goes to work for another police department in the K-9 unit. She has a way with dogs and her aptitude is noticed by the DEA. They invite her to be a part of an undercover operation being lead by her former husband, Scott.
One of things I enjoyed most about this relationship is Scott’s need to discover that the Nikki he divorced is not the same woman Cole is today. Not only does she have a different nickname (her real name is Nicole), but she has a different attitude, is more assured and confident as a police officer and woman. He is still madly in love with her, but he doesn’t know how to win her back. In other words, I liked the way he really had to work for it.
I also liked the villain in this story. I thought he was unbalanced and menacing. Never quite sure what he is going to do, this part of the story is suspenseful, much more so than previous books.
My one critique of the writing is that we are constantly reminded that Scott feels inadequate when compared to his brother, Gabe. Gabe was recently killed in action as a member of the special forces, but even before then, he had very big shoes to fill. It is one of the major themes of the story, but I felt it is slightly over done.
IN A NUTSHELL:
A good read with lots of suspense and a dog. Dogs are featured in this story and who doesn’t love a dog?
Thank you to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review>
Originally posted at Love Affair with an E-Reader
Force of Attraction is book 2 in the K-9 Rescue series.
A big thumbs up for this book. Of the three books currently in this series, this is the most cohesive and well-balanced. The suspense plays very well into the romance.
Scott and Cole broke up while Scott was deep undercover in a white supremacist biker gang. Perhaps he took his role too seriously or maybe he was just in too deep, but the stress ruined his marriage. Cole always believed that he chose his job over her. Scott is also plagued by a sense of inadequacy, trying to live up to his can-do-no-wrong brother, Gabe, who was killed in battle.
After divorcing Scott, Cole goes to work for another police department in the K-9 unit. She has a way with dogs and her aptitude is noticed by the DEA. They invite her to be a part of an undercover operation being lead by her former husband, Scott.
One of things I enjoyed most about this relationship is Scott’s need to discover that the Nikki he divorced is not the same woman Cole is today. Not only does she have a different nickname (her real name is Nicole), but she has a different attitude, is more assured and confident as a police officer and woman. He is still madly in love with her, but he doesn’t know how to win her back. In other words, I liked the way he really had to work for it.
I also liked the villain in this story. I thought he was unbalanced and menacing. Never quite sure what he is going to do, this part of the story is suspenseful, much more so than previous books.
My one critique of the writing is that we are constantly reminded that Scott feels inadequate when compared to his brother, Gabe. Gabe was recently killed in action as a member of the special forces, but even before then, he had very big shoes to fill. It is one of the major themes of the story, but I felt it is slightly over done.
IN A NUTSHELL:
A good read with lots of suspense and a dog. Dogs are featured in this story and who doesn’t love a dog?
Thank you to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review>
May 12, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
I'm finally getting to read my Series in a Month books! I got interested in the K9-9 Rescue series when I did a Series on Saturday about K9 stories. The books in the series are very loosely related. So far I believe they could easily be read as stand alones.
Force of Attraction is about a couple, both in law enforcement, previously married. Scott and Nicole are trapped between the fallout of a previous undercover operation and the dangers in a new one. Their strength and intelligence, the canine partners and dedication to get the bad guys were clear. The plot twists were exciting.
I loved how quickly the feelings and romance escalated. This is often the case in romantic suspense, but here it was grounded with a previous relationship as a starting point from which to build. Of course there were also old wounds to heal, and new trust to find. Everything about the situation made it dangerous and sizzlingly sexy. The best part is how they have grown and now allowed themselves to be honest with themselves and with each other. Scott took longer to let himself be honest but he got there.
I'm finally getting to read my Series in a Month books! I got interested in the K9-9 Rescue series when I did a Series on Saturday about K9 stories. The books in the series are very loosely related. So far I believe they could easily be read as stand alones.
Force of Attraction is about a couple, both in law enforcement, previously married. Scott and Nicole are trapped between the fallout of a previous undercover operation and the dangers in a new one. Their strength and intelligence, the canine partners and dedication to get the bad guys were clear. The plot twists were exciting.
I loved how quickly the feelings and romance escalated. This is often the case in romantic suspense, but here it was grounded with a previous relationship as a starting point from which to build. Of course there were also old wounds to heal, and new trust to find. Everything about the situation made it dangerous and sizzlingly sexy. The best part is how they have grown and now allowed themselves to be honest with themselves and with each other. Scott took longer to let himself be honest but he got there.
July 8, 2020
The so-called "hero" was such a loser. He was a cheater who mansplained his cheating. Cuz he was on the job, so it didn't count?? 😒
That wasn't the only thing I didn't like about this book, but it was a major issue and it made the love story unconvincing because of it.
That wasn't the only thing I didn't like about this book, but it was a major issue and it made the love story unconvincing because of it.
September 13, 2018
Melhor que o livro anterior, mas mesmo assim não me convenceu nem encheu as medidas (nem sequer esteve lá perto).
Este é um livro com elementos mais complicados, que fazem desta uma história mais dramática: o facto de Cole e Scott terem sido casados e a forma como o casamento acabou; um elemento do gangue em que Scott esteve infiltrado o ter reconhecido e descoberto que é agente da autoridade e agora andar a fazer mal aos seus familiares; o caso em que Cole e Scott têm de se infiltrar para desvendar o tráfico de drogas. Trabalho de infiltrados é um elemento que me deixa sempre muito nervosa e angustiada, evito ler esses livros mas, como não li a sinopse deste antes de começar, só depois é que percebi o rumo que os personagens iam seguir e já não tive coragem de desistir da leitura.
Odeio quando mulheres têm nomes de homens, sempre que leio os seus nomes imagino homens e deixa-me doida! Sempre que lia o nome Cole (de Nicole, a protagonista) imagina era Scott, o seu co protagonista e, quando na mesma frase aparecia mesmo Scott, bem, que confusão na minha cabeça.
Enfim, a intenção era boa e eu tentei, mas não gostei.
Este é um livro com elementos mais complicados, que fazem desta uma história mais dramática: o facto de Cole e Scott terem sido casados e a forma como o casamento acabou; um elemento do gangue em que Scott esteve infiltrado o ter reconhecido e descoberto que é agente da autoridade e agora andar a fazer mal aos seus familiares; o caso em que Cole e Scott têm de se infiltrar para desvendar o tráfico de drogas. Trabalho de infiltrados é um elemento que me deixa sempre muito nervosa e angustiada, evito ler esses livros mas, como não li a sinopse deste antes de começar, só depois é que percebi o rumo que os personagens iam seguir e já não tive coragem de desistir da leitura.
Odeio quando mulheres têm nomes de homens, sempre que leio os seus nomes imagino homens e deixa-me doida! Sempre que lia o nome Cole (de Nicole, a protagonista) imagina era Scott, o seu co protagonista e, quando na mesma frase aparecia mesmo Scott, bem, que confusão na minha cabeça.
Enfim, a intenção era boa e eu tentei, mas não gostei.
August 29, 2015
3 1/2*.
First of all, I have to say I liked Scott and Cole (although I do have issues with the name Cole for a girl). It was nice to see a heroine that could be as strong as a guy. The writing was fast paced and even though I figured out early on who the baddies were, it was still interesting to see how it all played out.
My one issue (and it's a HUGE one) is the mistake with Gabe and his service. On page 50 it's says "Gabe went to college and then into the Marines, In no time at all he was Special Ops. By the time of his death, he'd made SEAL Team Six".
Um NO!! A Marine can't be a SEAL, unless they resign from the Marines, join the Navy, and then apply for the SEAL's. To even be considered for ST6, you have to do five years as a SEAL first.
But not to worry about this little research "Oopsie" because on page 285 where Gabe's military history is mentioned again, we have no mention of the Marines at all. "He aced the ASVAB and got into the Naval Academy. He was chosen for Navy SEAL's as a freshman".
I'm sorry but this is sloppy writing. Where were the editors/beta readers or whomever the author uses? Why did no one pick this up? I know authors aren't perfect, and I can accept spelling and grammar mistakes, but something like this is just unacceptable.
I know I sound harsh, but when I'm spending good money on a book, then I expect the author to do their research.
First of all, I have to say I liked Scott and Cole (although I do have issues with the name Cole for a girl). It was nice to see a heroine that could be as strong as a guy. The writing was fast paced and even though I figured out early on who the baddies were, it was still interesting to see how it all played out.
My one issue (and it's a HUGE one) is the mistake with Gabe and his service. On page 50 it's says "Gabe went to college and then into the Marines, In no time at all he was Special Ops. By the time of his death, he'd made SEAL Team Six".
Um NO!! A Marine can't be a SEAL, unless they resign from the Marines, join the Navy, and then apply for the SEAL's. To even be considered for ST6, you have to do five years as a SEAL first.
But not to worry about this little research "Oopsie" because on page 285 where Gabe's military history is mentioned again, we have no mention of the Marines at all. "He aced the ASVAB and got into the Naval Academy. He was chosen for Navy SEAL's as a freshman".
I'm sorry but this is sloppy writing. Where were the editors/beta readers or whomever the author uses? Why did no one pick this up? I know authors aren't perfect, and I can accept spelling and grammar mistakes, but something like this is just unacceptable.
I know I sound harsh, but when I'm spending good money on a book, then I expect the author to do their research.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2018
Force of Attraction
3 Stars
Nicole "Cole" Jamison is ecstatic to be recruited for an undercover DEA operation only to realize that her new partner is her annoying ex-husband, Agent Scott Lucca. Forced to work in close quarters, Cole and Scott must get past their differences if they are to stop the brutal dealers using puppies as drug mules.
Series note: This is book #2 in the K-9 Rescue series. However, the characters and plotlines are not interrelated and the books can be read as standalones.
A good premise. Unfortunately, neither the hero nor heroine are particularly likable.
Scott's behavior during his marriage to Cole was unforgivable. Yes, it is given a believable explanation (although it takes a while getting to it), but this does not negate his hurtful actions and attitude toward his wife.
While Cole is quite justified in holding a grudge, her "woe is me" personality is very grating. Moreover, her method for overcoming her anger and accepting the need for a fake relationship with Scott -- adopting an alter-ego persona -- is unrealistic and confusing.
The suspense plot is better than the romance and saves the book from being a complete dud, and the canine characters are marvelous, if underutilized.
All in all, Ayres writing is good and the K-9 concept is very appealing. I will continue on to the next book, which will hopefully have a better couple.
3 Stars
Nicole "Cole" Jamison is ecstatic to be recruited for an undercover DEA operation only to realize that her new partner is her annoying ex-husband, Agent Scott Lucca. Forced to work in close quarters, Cole and Scott must get past their differences if they are to stop the brutal dealers using puppies as drug mules.
Series note: This is book #2 in the K-9 Rescue series. However, the characters and plotlines are not interrelated and the books can be read as standalones.
A good premise. Unfortunately, neither the hero nor heroine are particularly likable.
Scott's behavior during his marriage to Cole was unforgivable. Yes, it is given a believable explanation (although it takes a while getting to it), but this does not negate his hurtful actions and attitude toward his wife.
While Cole is quite justified in holding a grudge, her "woe is me" personality is very grating. Moreover, her method for overcoming her anger and accepting the need for a fake relationship with Scott -- adopting an alter-ego persona -- is unrealistic and confusing.
The suspense plot is better than the romance and saves the book from being a complete dud, and the canine characters are marvelous, if underutilized.
All in all, Ayres writing is good and the K-9 concept is very appealing. I will continue on to the next book, which will hopefully have a better couple.
June 16, 2017
story was likeable enough but I liked the first one more.
as I am noticing with this author there are always several plot lines intertwining in the novel .
I am not that big of a fan of the second chance trope. I liked Cole and Hugo. Scott had a lot of issues and growing up to do.
all in all not too bad, will try the next one
as I am noticing with this author there are always several plot lines intertwining in the novel .
I am not that big of a fan of the second chance trope. I liked Cole and Hugo. Scott had a lot of issues and growing up to do.
all in all not too bad, will try the next one
March 18, 2015
This is the second book in this fast paced series that mixes romance with law enforcement and of corse their canine companions. Buckle up because it's going to be a bumpy ride!
Cole walked away from the life she shared with Scott her undercover cop husband when she realised that maybe he didn't feel as strongly about her as she did him. Now she has a new role as a K9 officer and a new male in her life in the shape of Hugo her canine partner so the last thing she needs is to have old wounds reopened . That's just what happens though when she is assigned to work alongside Scott on a drugs case.
Scott may have lost the woman he loved when infiltrating a MC gang but he has never forgotten her. Now forced to pose as a couple all Scott wants is to put the past behind and start again but a lot has changed in two years. Cole is an independent woman and more than ready to take him on but the attraction is still there for both of them and try as they might it's about to burn out of control. So here they are on assignment but the past is far from buried . Scott has made enemies and even as Cole starts to let him get close to her again the hunters become the hunted!
You will love this story if like me you enjoy romance with more than a slight smattering of suspense . Add in the two dogs that feature in this story and it's a lovely mixture of riveting story and seriously hot steamy scenes. A second chance romance that works very well with descriptive writing and an imaginative plot. This couples chemistry is off the charts but it's a joy watching them learn to trust each other again and so it should be! Trust is not something to take lightly but luckily the author has one or two ideas up her sleeve that allow this couple to reconnect in all the right ways! An unusual idea fuels this story as I have heard of drug trafficking and even drug mules but this was a completely new concept to me. I loved the dogs and Hugo is without a doubt the star of the book to me! As for the romance well let's just say that both this reader and the lead couple were left very satisfied indeed!
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
Cole walked away from the life she shared with Scott her undercover cop husband when she realised that maybe he didn't feel as strongly about her as she did him. Now she has a new role as a K9 officer and a new male in her life in the shape of Hugo her canine partner so the last thing she needs is to have old wounds reopened . That's just what happens though when she is assigned to work alongside Scott on a drugs case.
Scott may have lost the woman he loved when infiltrating a MC gang but he has never forgotten her. Now forced to pose as a couple all Scott wants is to put the past behind and start again but a lot has changed in two years. Cole is an independent woman and more than ready to take him on but the attraction is still there for both of them and try as they might it's about to burn out of control. So here they are on assignment but the past is far from buried . Scott has made enemies and even as Cole starts to let him get close to her again the hunters become the hunted!
You will love this story if like me you enjoy romance with more than a slight smattering of suspense . Add in the two dogs that feature in this story and it's a lovely mixture of riveting story and seriously hot steamy scenes. A second chance romance that works very well with descriptive writing and an imaginative plot. This couples chemistry is off the charts but it's a joy watching them learn to trust each other again and so it should be! Trust is not something to take lightly but luckily the author has one or two ideas up her sleeve that allow this couple to reconnect in all the right ways! An unusual idea fuels this story as I have heard of drug trafficking and even drug mules but this was a completely new concept to me. I loved the dogs and Hugo is without a doubt the star of the book to me! As for the romance well let's just say that both this reader and the lead couple were left very satisfied indeed!
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
March 31, 2015
Review: Force of Attraction (A K-9 Rescue Novel, Book 2) by D. D. Ayres http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-2fW
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
The book description may seem a slight clichéd, but believe me it isn’t. Their former relationship ended anything but normal which made their love story all the more exciting. It took me a little bit to warm up to Cole but because of what happened and how things progressed, it’s clear she has the strength of character needed to match Scott and anything thrown at them. The sexual tension and hot romance was blended well with the back story so that it flowed seamlessly and seemed realistic in the timing. I’m glad the danger wasn’t in your face all the time but instead showed you what it’s like in the feast or famine of undercover work. Don’t get me wrong, I was flipping pages as fast as I could to see what would happen. Finally I will say I love the dog aspect of this series and the newness it brings. I can only imagine what the next book will be like.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
The book description may seem a slight clichéd, but believe me it isn’t. Their former relationship ended anything but normal which made their love story all the more exciting. It took me a little bit to warm up to Cole but because of what happened and how things progressed, it’s clear she has the strength of character needed to match Scott and anything thrown at them. The sexual tension and hot romance was blended well with the back story so that it flowed seamlessly and seemed realistic in the timing. I’m glad the danger wasn’t in your face all the time but instead showed you what it’s like in the feast or famine of undercover work. Don’t get me wrong, I was flipping pages as fast as I could to see what would happen. Finally I will say I love the dog aspect of this series and the newness it brings. I can only imagine what the next book will be like.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2018
Average story, boring couple, and I don't believe in their HEA
June 24, 2021
#2 in the K-9 Rescue romance series
This episode was even better than the first in this series. The characters were excellent--strong yet flawed and vulnerable. And there was a lot of exciting action. Scott and Cole are divorced, but they have both been asked to participate in a puppy-mill-drug investigation because of their experience as DEA and K-9 officer. Cole, as a former Agility competition participant, will infiltrate the league to get closer to a potential target. Scott's undercover role is as her boyfriend. Of course, they get close to each other and, inevitably, they have friction but lots of sexual tension as well. To compound their problems, there's a maniac after Scott from his previous undercover role in a drug gang. The whole book was exciting, and the story made sense. I enjoyed learning a little more about the use of K-9's in law enforcement, as well as the personal relationship each officer develops with his/her "partner." I look forward to reading the next in this very enjoyable series.
This episode was even better than the first in this series. The characters were excellent--strong yet flawed and vulnerable. And there was a lot of exciting action. Scott and Cole are divorced, but they have both been asked to participate in a puppy-mill-drug investigation because of their experience as DEA and K-9 officer. Cole, as a former Agility competition participant, will infiltrate the league to get closer to a potential target. Scott's undercover role is as her boyfriend. Of course, they get close to each other and, inevitably, they have friction but lots of sexual tension as well. To compound their problems, there's a maniac after Scott from his previous undercover role in a drug gang. The whole book was exciting, and the story made sense. I enjoyed learning a little more about the use of K-9's in law enforcement, as well as the personal relationship each officer develops with his/her "partner." I look forward to reading the next in this very enjoyable series.
November 6, 2016
Two years ago their short marriage imploded due to his undercover work, now they have to work undercover together to catch a drug smuggling ring. Turns out, playing pretend boyfriend and girlfriend, skirting around their issues, and trying to keep their hands off each other is the easy task. The tough one is trying to keep one step ahead of a killer intent on destroying him by targeting everything he holds dear...
Now we're talking. I was thinking of dropping the series thanks to the first two not-so-good installments, but turns out perseverance pays off. Big time.
This book was everything the previous two weren't. And it had everything the previous two didn't. The main characters were sympathetic, realistic, and relatable (if we discount their expertise in their field of work). Yes, they had some major issues, both by themselves and with each other, but those were nothing we don't see in every day life...Their quickie marriage based on mutual lust and attraction imploded at the first hurdle, now, two years later they've both changed (hopefully for the best) and matured, they have different priorities, different goals in mind, and they've actually realized that lust and attraction (although still there) isn't enough, that an emotion of some kind has to be involved to make anything work. And that one particular emotion was involved before, but they were both too proud and stupid to heed it. Second-chance romances, when done well, provide great reads.
I liked both Scott and Cole, yes, they also annoyed me sometimes due to their issues and continuous misunderstandings and miscommunications; not telling each other important information on their encounters with the bad guy made them come off as a little thick and inexperienced despite their apparent long-period work in law enforcement. But I liked both of them, because they worked. Alone and with each other. They started off as complete opposites, but somehow, throughout the story, found the middle ground, the compromise it was needed to really make their relationship work.
And although the back-and-forth they were doing in their minds got a little old and stale toward the end, the characterization was good, and the progress from enemies to friends and lovers was organic, well-paced, and believable.
And I liked the analogy between Cole and Hugo, the way the pooch mellowed toward Scott as gradually as did his handler.
The suspense wasn't bad either. Although the main plot revolved around Scott and Cole's undercover work to bust up a drug-smuggling ring, the "main" suspense sub-plot was all about the past coming back to bite Scott in the ass in the form of a villain intent on destroying him by destroying everything and everyone Scott loved.
The descriptions of how an undercover operator might get sucked into the "fiction", how physically and psychically draining undercover work is, how not everybody makes it out alive or whole were vivid, gripping, and intense, and the juggling the man had to do to keep the current assignment floating while he tried to cover all his bases from an imminent attack from the ghost of the past, trying to keep one step ahead (and failing) was well-paced and intriguing.
Yes, it was an additional side-story, but it was so ingrained into the main storyline, a vital part of it, actually, since it provided more than one breakthrough in the relationship between Scott and Cole, that it didn't slow the story down, but kept adding to its momentum, keeping the pace steadily increasing toward the big finish.
Well-written, well-paced, with great characters, an intriguing plot, and good suspense. A page-turner.
Now we're talking. I was thinking of dropping the series thanks to the first two not-so-good installments, but turns out perseverance pays off. Big time.
This book was everything the previous two weren't. And it had everything the previous two didn't. The main characters were sympathetic, realistic, and relatable (if we discount their expertise in their field of work). Yes, they had some major issues, both by themselves and with each other, but those were nothing we don't see in every day life...Their quickie marriage based on mutual lust and attraction imploded at the first hurdle, now, two years later they've both changed (hopefully for the best) and matured, they have different priorities, different goals in mind, and they've actually realized that lust and attraction (although still there) isn't enough, that an emotion of some kind has to be involved to make anything work. And that one particular emotion was involved before, but they were both too proud and stupid to heed it. Second-chance romances, when done well, provide great reads.
I liked both Scott and Cole, yes, they also annoyed me sometimes due to their issues and continuous misunderstandings and miscommunications; not telling each other important information on their encounters with the bad guy made them come off as a little thick and inexperienced despite their apparent long-period work in law enforcement. But I liked both of them, because they worked. Alone and with each other. They started off as complete opposites, but somehow, throughout the story, found the middle ground, the compromise it was needed to really make their relationship work.
And although the back-and-forth they were doing in their minds got a little old and stale toward the end, the characterization was good, and the progress from enemies to friends and lovers was organic, well-paced, and believable.
And I liked the analogy between Cole and Hugo, the way the pooch mellowed toward Scott as gradually as did his handler.
The suspense wasn't bad either. Although the main plot revolved around Scott and Cole's undercover work to bust up a drug-smuggling ring, the "main" suspense sub-plot was all about the past coming back to bite Scott in the ass in the form of a villain intent on destroying him by destroying everything and everyone Scott loved.
The descriptions of how an undercover operator might get sucked into the "fiction", how physically and psychically draining undercover work is, how not everybody makes it out alive or whole were vivid, gripping, and intense, and the juggling the man had to do to keep the current assignment floating while he tried to cover all his bases from an imminent attack from the ghost of the past, trying to keep one step ahead (and failing) was well-paced and intriguing.
Yes, it was an additional side-story, but it was so ingrained into the main storyline, a vital part of it, actually, since it provided more than one breakthrough in the relationship between Scott and Cole, that it didn't slow the story down, but kept adding to its momentum, keeping the pace steadily increasing toward the big finish.
Well-written, well-paced, with great characters, an intriguing plot, and good suspense. A page-turner.
March 24, 2015
ARC received from St Martin's Press via Netgalley for an honest review
Force of Attraction is the second book in the K-9 Rescue series, but can be read as a stand alone.
Cole and Scott have history. Sexy history. It has been 2 years since their relationship imploded, and now that their worlds have come together again, you just know from the beginning that things are going to be interesting!
And wow, they are. As much as this book is about the attraction between Cole and Scott, there is so much more going on around them.
They are whisked into a world of drug trafficking, the agility dog circuit, bikers and undercover police work (yes, I know, a real mixed bag of things!!)
I felt like there were 4 main characters in this book. Hugo and Izzy, Cole and Luke's police dogs, both play such huge parts in their stories. I think Hugo may have even stolen the limelight a bit!
There was some mystery and intrigue throughout this story, and while I could kind of figure out how things would end, I was on the edge of my seat to see how things could happen.
All in all, I really did enjoy this book. It did make me look at my own dog though and think "look at you you lazy old lump of a thing!!"
I have really enjoyed both of the K-9 Rescue series by D.D Ayres, and I look forward to more in the future.
Force of Attraction is the second book in the K-9 Rescue series, but can be read as a stand alone.
Cole and Scott have history. Sexy history. It has been 2 years since their relationship imploded, and now that their worlds have come together again, you just know from the beginning that things are going to be interesting!
And wow, they are. As much as this book is about the attraction between Cole and Scott, there is so much more going on around them.
They are whisked into a world of drug trafficking, the agility dog circuit, bikers and undercover police work (yes, I know, a real mixed bag of things!!)
I felt like there were 4 main characters in this book. Hugo and Izzy, Cole and Luke's police dogs, both play such huge parts in their stories. I think Hugo may have even stolen the limelight a bit!
There was some mystery and intrigue throughout this story, and while I could kind of figure out how things would end, I was on the edge of my seat to see how things could happen.
All in all, I really did enjoy this book. It did make me look at my own dog though and think "look at you you lazy old lump of a thing!!"
I have really enjoyed both of the K-9 Rescue series by D.D Ayres, and I look forward to more in the future.
April 3, 2016
This reunited lovers romance is a sexy, suspenseful thrill ride! Cole and Scott are divorced, their marriage having disintegrated along with Scott's undercover role with a biker gang in a devastating expose. Cole has since picked herself up, moved on with her life and is a key member of her local K-9 unit. Now Scott's back, having also moved into the K-9 division but with the DEA. He knows Cole's capabilities and is convinced that partnering will help put down a puppy drug smuggling ring if they can work together undercover. But pretending to be lovers supporting each other on the dog competition circuit is harder than it looks when the sexual attraction between them can't be denied and the lines between personal and professional life blur. Can they maintain their focus on the job and learn to trust each other again? Or will specters from the past and the case they are involved in blow everything out of the water?
I loved this story! From the very beginning I was thoroughly intrigued with the plot and the characters. I've never read a story involving a K-9 police unit before, so I found the relationship between dog and handler to be really interesting and well researched, as were the scenes involving the dog competition circuit. Scott and Cole were likeable, engaging and realistic characters. They realize that they are both responsible for the disintegration of their marriage and being in close proximity again stirs up all the old feelings, both good and bad. The sexual attraction between them sizzles and leads to several very sexy and emotional love scenes. The suspenseful subplot involving both the drug smuggling ring and Scott's previous undercover work weaves throughout the story, leading to several tense and dramatic scenes that will keep the reader on edge and wanting to know what's going to happen next. For me it was a perfect blend of suspense and romance, and this is definitely an author I'll be reading again. 5 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I loved this story! From the very beginning I was thoroughly intrigued with the plot and the characters. I've never read a story involving a K-9 police unit before, so I found the relationship between dog and handler to be really interesting and well researched, as were the scenes involving the dog competition circuit. Scott and Cole were likeable, engaging and realistic characters. They realize that they are both responsible for the disintegration of their marriage and being in close proximity again stirs up all the old feelings, both good and bad. The sexual attraction between them sizzles and leads to several very sexy and emotional love scenes. The suspenseful subplot involving both the drug smuggling ring and Scott's previous undercover work weaves throughout the story, leading to several tense and dramatic scenes that will keep the reader on edge and wanting to know what's going to happen next. For me it was a perfect blend of suspense and romance, and this is definitely an author I'll be reading again. 5 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
September 12, 2021
Oooh, this one gives us 2 hunky dogs, plus a few side canine hunks since it's set to some degree in the world of competitive civilian canine agility world.
Both Nicole "Cole" and Scott are K-9 officers: Cole and her bouvier Hugo in the county police, Scott and his chocolate lab Izzy with DEA. Cole is tapped to join an undercover operation run by DEA investigating the use of puppies as drug mules and somehow tied to the agility competition circuit. As a teen, Cole competed in agility and is one of the only K-9 officers in the area with that kind of background. Scott is the team leader. Only problem: Cole and Scott bitterly divorced 2 years ago and now have to act like a loving couple. Lots of unresolved anger and hurt there.
The plot is pretty decent actually, with a couple of great twists in the puppy mules/agility competition plot. But there's a far darker, more dangerous plot involving a leader of a violent biker gang that Scott had infiltrated undercover a few years later. It also played a big role in the demise of his marriage to Cole. Scott has the biggest emotional story here. He's a dark tormented edgy man, with anger management issues. The biker plotline allows an exploration of the psychological effect on the cops involved in the world of uncover ops in the criminal world, the legacy such ops leave. There is also a subplot for Scott involving his hero worship of an older brother, now deceased, and its effect on his past decisions and family relationships.
Cole too has an emotional journey but there was much in hers that didn't work to my mind. Also, she's supposedly an experienced, well-trained, police officer, yet her reactions to situations are often civilian initially, as if she had just graduated from the police academy. But she is in the end the stabilizing emotional center that helps Scott move past his demons.
Hugo is one of my favorite hunky dogs --- with an hilarious klepto tendency.
There's also a lot of awesome hot sex, sufficient to feed a number of fantasies.
Both Nicole "Cole" and Scott are K-9 officers: Cole and her bouvier Hugo in the county police, Scott and his chocolate lab Izzy with DEA. Cole is tapped to join an undercover operation run by DEA investigating the use of puppies as drug mules and somehow tied to the agility competition circuit. As a teen, Cole competed in agility and is one of the only K-9 officers in the area with that kind of background. Scott is the team leader. Only problem: Cole and Scott bitterly divorced 2 years ago and now have to act like a loving couple. Lots of unresolved anger and hurt there.
The plot is pretty decent actually, with a couple of great twists in the puppy mules/agility competition plot. But there's a far darker, more dangerous plot involving a leader of a violent biker gang that Scott had infiltrated undercover a few years later. It also played a big role in the demise of his marriage to Cole. Scott has the biggest emotional story here. He's a dark tormented edgy man, with anger management issues. The biker plotline allows an exploration of the psychological effect on the cops involved in the world of uncover ops in the criminal world, the legacy such ops leave. There is also a subplot for Scott involving his hero worship of an older brother, now deceased, and its effect on his past decisions and family relationships.
Cole too has an emotional journey but there was much in hers that didn't work to my mind. Also, she's supposedly an experienced, well-trained, police officer, yet her reactions to situations are often civilian initially, as if she had just graduated from the police academy. But she is in the end the stabilizing emotional center that helps Scott move past his demons.
Hugo is one of my favorite hunky dogs --- with an hilarious klepto tendency.
There's also a lot of awesome hot sex, sufficient to feed a number of fantasies.
May 29, 2016
It is not the size of the dog in the fight that counts, but the size of the fight in the dog. - Barry McGuigan
FORCE OF ATTRACTION is a tour of force from DD Ayers. She offers multiple story lines rolled into one action packed roller coast ride through the lives of law enforcement officers and their canine partners. Nicole "Cole" Jamison is a rising star in the Montgomery County Police Department, having recently been assigned to the K9 unit with Hugo. Her experience with the dog show circuit makes her the perfect candidate for a joint task force investigating pedigree dogs being used as drug mules. The catch - she would work undercover as a dog handler with her another DEA agent posing as her significant other - her ex-husband.
Scott Lucca lives on the edge, making him a capable agent but a lousy husband. He regrets that he did not at least try to save his marriage, leading him to recommend Nikki - now Cole - for the task force. Their professional reunion is overshadowed by Cole's anger, Scott's remorse, and their mutual attraction. They make some progress in healing as they train for the mission, only to encounter a dangerous criminal from Scott's undercover assignment which lead to their divorce. Their canine partners enable them to find their happily ever after.
Ayers delves into Scott's psyche to demonstrate what makes a "normal" kid from New Jersey take the risk of undercover assignments. I enjoyed Ayers incorporating how dogs are trained for sniffing out drugs ... and preparing for best in show. I also appreciated the secondary characters who trained Scott and Cole to act as a married couple ... and heal as a divorced couple.
I tend to shy away from romantic suspense. Yet I was drawn to FORCE OF ATTRACTION by its cover and blurb. From page one, I was enchanted by the dogs and entrenched in the action. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Recommended read for fans of law enforcement characters and second chance romance.
FORCE OF ATTRACTION is a tour of force from DD Ayers. She offers multiple story lines rolled into one action packed roller coast ride through the lives of law enforcement officers and their canine partners. Nicole "Cole" Jamison is a rising star in the Montgomery County Police Department, having recently been assigned to the K9 unit with Hugo. Her experience with the dog show circuit makes her the perfect candidate for a joint task force investigating pedigree dogs being used as drug mules. The catch - she would work undercover as a dog handler with her another DEA agent posing as her significant other - her ex-husband.
Scott Lucca lives on the edge, making him a capable agent but a lousy husband. He regrets that he did not at least try to save his marriage, leading him to recommend Nikki - now Cole - for the task force. Their professional reunion is overshadowed by Cole's anger, Scott's remorse, and their mutual attraction. They make some progress in healing as they train for the mission, only to encounter a dangerous criminal from Scott's undercover assignment which lead to their divorce. Their canine partners enable them to find their happily ever after.
Ayers delves into Scott's psyche to demonstrate what makes a "normal" kid from New Jersey take the risk of undercover assignments. I enjoyed Ayers incorporating how dogs are trained for sniffing out drugs ... and preparing for best in show. I also appreciated the secondary characters who trained Scott and Cole to act as a married couple ... and heal as a divorced couple.
I tend to shy away from romantic suspense. Yet I was drawn to FORCE OF ATTRACTION by its cover and blurb. From page one, I was enchanted by the dogs and entrenched in the action. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Recommended read for fans of law enforcement characters and second chance romance.
October 20, 2018
I can respect this book as you can tell the author is knowledgable and informed when it comes to dog breeds, behavior and aspects of training. The writing creativity in the suspense and drama element however, needed work.
Character development was ok. The main characters were believable, realistic and mostly likable but bordering on mundane and uninspired. Supporting characters were flat and completed to just the most basic and necessary levels. Our antagonist was anything but...he seemed promising at first with the way he created patches of turmoil and adrenaline in the plot but his overall display and final act of retaliation towards our characters was foreseeable and yawn-inducing, I was disappointed it wasn't done in such a way to take our main leads off guard but rather, it was expected and they were well prepared.
Plot was slow moving and unoriginal. Extremely predictable and lacking any sense of urgency or exciting action. Scenes of the romantic element were very copy-paste. The idea of using puppies to move drugs under radar was innovative and should've been a great starting point to build off of, and maybe it was, but everything else felt pitched together; it was both at once too slow and too quick. More time should've been taken for detail building, back drop orientation, enemy maneuvering and interworking machinations.
Writing style was more difficult to peg for me. The voice was good but I couldn't tell if the style of which it was done was only just tolerable because of the lacking overall development of the characters/story or if it was due to actual inexperience of the author.
Overall; entertaining but not overly exciting. This book will be one of those easily forgotten novels that I will only remember I read because I did a review on it. It was combination of many things that made this book mostly unenjoyable for me but I'm certain better reading material can be found elsewhere.
Character development was ok. The main characters were believable, realistic and mostly likable but bordering on mundane and uninspired. Supporting characters were flat and completed to just the most basic and necessary levels. Our antagonist was anything but...he seemed promising at first with the way he created patches of turmoil and adrenaline in the plot but his overall display and final act of retaliation towards our characters was foreseeable and yawn-inducing, I was disappointed it wasn't done in such a way to take our main leads off guard but rather, it was expected and they were well prepared.
Plot was slow moving and unoriginal. Extremely predictable and lacking any sense of urgency or exciting action. Scenes of the romantic element were very copy-paste. The idea of using puppies to move drugs under radar was innovative and should've been a great starting point to build off of, and maybe it was, but everything else felt pitched together; it was both at once too slow and too quick. More time should've been taken for detail building, back drop orientation, enemy maneuvering and interworking machinations.
Writing style was more difficult to peg for me. The voice was good but I couldn't tell if the style of which it was done was only just tolerable because of the lacking overall development of the characters/story or if it was due to actual inexperience of the author.
Overall; entertaining but not overly exciting. This book will be one of those easily forgotten novels that I will only remember I read because I did a review on it. It was combination of many things that made this book mostly unenjoyable for me but I'm certain better reading material can be found elsewhere.
August 1, 2015
This novel is a fast paced, intriguing look at the lives of K-9 officers that also tugged at my heart. Ayres combines second chance romance with the suspense of an active undercover operation in a way that will capture your attention. She develops her plot via intertwining threads that really kept me on my toes. I loved seeing how everything came together in the end. Emotions run high throughout, and suspense never takes a backseat to the chemistry that explodes from the pages at times. Ayres’ vivid descriptions bring her characters and their actions to life in a realistic way that draws you to the story.
The chemistry between the main characters is palpable. Their lack of communication brings about some rather outrageous misunderstandings and assumptions. Seeing them come to grips with the fact that their reactions in the past may not have been the best course of action was rewarding. It was almost as affirmative as seeing them rebuild their lives. Their individual and combined histories add almost as much to who they are as their actions in the present. The supporting cast wasn’t overly developed, but we get to know them well enough to understand their roles in the story, both personally and professionally. It was great. This really allowed the main characters to shine through.
As a whole this was an entertaining, exciting novel. Ayres has definitely created another work well worth reading.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The chemistry between the main characters is palpable. Their lack of communication brings about some rather outrageous misunderstandings and assumptions. Seeing them come to grips with the fact that their reactions in the past may not have been the best course of action was rewarding. It was almost as affirmative as seeing them rebuild their lives. Their individual and combined histories add almost as much to who they are as their actions in the present. The supporting cast wasn’t overly developed, but we get to know them well enough to understand their roles in the story, both personally and professionally. It was great. This really allowed the main characters to shine through.
As a whole this was an entertaining, exciting novel. Ayres has definitely created another work well worth reading.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2016
This one almost didn't get finished.
It was that bad.
I skimmed through so many of the characters "thinking" scenes, there were way too many in a story that I wasn't interested in to begin with.
As bad as insta-love is, I really feel like "reacquainting lost loves" is even worse. It's a work-around that bothers me. I would rather read insta-love than read about flames that fizzled and are later rekindled. Very rarely has it been done in a way that I didn't roll my eyes over it.
And the concept of this divorced couple going undercover together got so overdone and ridiculous. Ignoring your own issues and speaking in third-person, referring to yourself and your relationship as your undercover alter-ego? Thinking your alter-ego can have sex with your ex-husbands undercover alter-ego and it's ok?
Say what?
I found the dogs to seem like they were just added into the story, like they weren't needed and weren't important to the plot. Obviously, they actually were, but I didn't feel like they got the pages that they deserved. They stayed in the background and didn't shine. At least in the last book, the dog was important and I liked him. Maybe it's just me, but this book, I would have rather read more about the dogs than the characters.
I'm not going to abandon the series yet, but it's not looking good. I'm going to put a few books between this one and Necessary Force to break it up a little.
It was that bad.
I skimmed through so many of the characters "thinking" scenes, there were way too many in a story that I wasn't interested in to begin with.
As bad as insta-love is, I really feel like "reacquainting lost loves" is even worse. It's a work-around that bothers me. I would rather read insta-love than read about flames that fizzled and are later rekindled. Very rarely has it been done in a way that I didn't roll my eyes over it.
And the concept of this divorced couple going undercover together got so overdone and ridiculous. Ignoring your own issues and speaking in third-person, referring to yourself and your relationship as your undercover alter-ego? Thinking your alter-ego can have sex with your ex-husbands undercover alter-ego and it's ok?
Say what?
I found the dogs to seem like they were just added into the story, like they weren't needed and weren't important to the plot. Obviously, they actually were, but I didn't feel like they got the pages that they deserved. They stayed in the background and didn't shine. At least in the last book, the dog was important and I liked him. Maybe it's just me, but this book, I would have rather read more about the dogs than the characters.
I'm not going to abandon the series yet, but it's not looking good. I'm going to put a few books between this one and Necessary Force to break it up a little.
February 1, 2016
I liked Cole and Scott for most of the book, just the unwillingness to communicate felt forced at times. In the end Cole and Scott got there, but I didn't get the point of Nikkie changing her name to Cole, it was confusing for most of the book. This also felt that it ended a bit open with the drug situation that Cole and Scott were working on, as well as the situation with the rapper's wife. I felt like Cole should have been able to resolve that in a different fashion instead of allowing herself to be flamed by the media hype and left like that, but that is just me.
October 20, 2016
narrated by Jeffrey Kafer.
Book: 3.5 stars.
Narration: 2.5 stars.
Rounding up to 4 stars because all versions are lumped together in the rating.
http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2016/0...
Book: 3.5 stars.
Narration: 2.5 stars.
Rounding up to 4 stars because all versions are lumped together in the rating.
http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2016/0...
May 23, 2017
I liked the first one in the series better. They didn't explain things to my satisfaction about why Cole would be willing to go back to Scott and they still hadn't really addressed why she left him in the first place. Plus the whole X/Dos Equis/biker revenge thing felt really forced.
April 30, 2019
This one started off really rocky for me. Undercover, previous history, lack of communication - all tropes I hate in romance. Luckily they had character growth and it ended well.
September 6, 2019
Loved it
June 22, 2015
3.75 stars a really good read... full review coming soon.
July 2, 2017
List review, because that is all I have energy for after a day at the zoo.
-Yay for getting the dog on the cover right! Izzy is indeed a chocolate lab ... but I would argue that Hugo the Bouvier des Flandres is the dog with more page time. But that would mean putting him with his female handler Cole, and leaving us with no shirtless male torso to indicate that this is a romance. Plus, I imagine stock images of Bouviers are not that thick on the ground!
-I liked both Scott and Cole, and enjoyed learning more about the different types of K-9 teams, and the world of agility. Scott and Cole have great sexual chemistry, but I'm not 100% sold on their HEA (more on that later). This is a second-chance romance, and previously the H/h were married. Their divorce was collateral damage when Scott's undercover investigation in a biker gang was blown.
-Maybe it's just me, but I had a hard time figuring out Scott and Cole's ages! Cole is under 30, because that's the age of her older sister, but she's not in her early 20s - maybe 26 or 27? I'm not sure we got an age ID on Scott, but I was reading him at around 29 - 32.
-The handling of the undercover suspects bothered me a bit. Cole and Scott are investigating some drug smuggling involving dogs (trigger warning for mention of dead puppies) and the main suspects are a hip-hop star and his wife. I just found the name Eye-C ridiculous (which, to be fair, I think about some actual real-life rappers), and thought that the author wrote some cliches I could have done without (the reality show, and its ridiculous name). On the flip side, she does give some depth to both of the suspects, giving Eye-C a degree in music (jazz, I think) and having his wife Shajuanna (?sp) genuinely care for Argentinian mastiffs, a large breed of dog, and being an active presence in their training and showing. It's also obvious that they love their daughters and want to protect them from harm.
-Reading on the Kindle, the book ends with 11% left in the file, so I was surprised to be reading along and find that I was done already. The two investigations had wrapped up by that point, but only just, and the final pages are focused on some family relationship rebuilding with Scott's parents, and not on what Cole and Scott will be doing now that they're back together. I never felt satisfied with the level of explanation on either of their parts, and with the level of grovel on Scott's end. Though they both admitted culpability for the failure of their marriage, I don't know that either of them fully understands how it impacted the other. Scott talks about some alcoholism and anger-management issues after the divorce, but Cole makes a throwaway comment about rehab (for alcohol) that is never explained (though she did lie about something else in that conversation, so maybe that was a lie as well?).
-For me to believe in the HEA for a couple, I need to have some sense of how they will work to overcome the obstacles in their future. Cole and Scott may have come to terms with what went wrong the first time around, but I didn't end the book with a sense that they had a plan for the future. Cole shared what she wanted out of a relationship, but we don't see either of them working toward that dream in a concrete way - they're still living in separate states at the end of the book, with no talk about how to make a relationship work with distance and demanding jobs!
-If this series followed a more closely connected group, I would hope to see Cole and Scott in the next book as a stronger couple, working toward a future together. However, the only connection between the books has been the presence of Harmonie Kennels, I don't think it's likely that they'll pop up again, so I'm left to wonder and hope that the second time's the charm for these two.
-Yay for getting the dog on the cover right! Izzy is indeed a chocolate lab ... but I would argue that Hugo the Bouvier des Flandres is the dog with more page time. But that would mean putting him with his female handler Cole, and leaving us with no shirtless male torso to indicate that this is a romance. Plus, I imagine stock images of Bouviers are not that thick on the ground!
-I liked both Scott and Cole, and enjoyed learning more about the different types of K-9 teams, and the world of agility. Scott and Cole have great sexual chemistry, but I'm not 100% sold on their HEA (more on that later). This is a second-chance romance, and previously the H/h were married. Their divorce was collateral damage when Scott's undercover investigation in a biker gang was blown.
-Maybe it's just me, but I had a hard time figuring out Scott and Cole's ages! Cole is under 30, because that's the age of her older sister, but she's not in her early 20s - maybe 26 or 27? I'm not sure we got an age ID on Scott, but I was reading him at around 29 - 32.
-The handling of the undercover suspects bothered me a bit. Cole and Scott are investigating some drug smuggling involving dogs (trigger warning for mention of dead puppies) and the main suspects are a hip-hop star and his wife. I just found the name Eye-C ridiculous (which, to be fair, I think about some actual real-life rappers), and thought that the author wrote some cliches I could have done without (the reality show, and its ridiculous name). On the flip side, she does give some depth to both of the suspects, giving Eye-C a degree in music (jazz, I think) and having his wife Shajuanna (?sp) genuinely care for Argentinian mastiffs, a large breed of dog, and being an active presence in their training and showing. It's also obvious that they love their daughters and want to protect them from harm.
-Reading on the Kindle, the book ends with 11% left in the file, so I was surprised to be reading along and find that I was done already. The two investigations had wrapped up by that point, but only just, and the final pages are focused on some family relationship rebuilding with Scott's parents, and not on what Cole and Scott will be doing now that they're back together. I never felt satisfied with the level of explanation on either of their parts, and with the level of grovel on Scott's end. Though they both admitted culpability for the failure of their marriage, I don't know that either of them fully understands how it impacted the other. Scott talks about some alcoholism and anger-management issues after the divorce, but Cole makes a throwaway comment about rehab (for alcohol) that is never explained (though she did lie about something else in that conversation, so maybe that was a lie as well?).
-For me to believe in the HEA for a couple, I need to have some sense of how they will work to overcome the obstacles in their future. Cole and Scott may have come to terms with what went wrong the first time around, but I didn't end the book with a sense that they had a plan for the future. Cole shared what she wanted out of a relationship, but we don't see either of them working toward that dream in a concrete way - they're still living in separate states at the end of the book, with no talk about how to make a relationship work with distance and demanding jobs!
-If this series followed a more closely connected group, I would hope to see Cole and Scott in the next book as a stronger couple, working toward a future together. However, the only connection between the books has been the presence of Harmonie Kennels, I don't think it's likely that they'll pop up again, so I'm left to wonder and hope that the second time's the charm for these two.
August 8, 2015
As a new reader of DD’s I have to say I am in love with her books. They say don’t judge a book by its cover but that is what I do. And the covers to this one (Force of Attraction) and the previous book made me do a double take. I saw a dog and a hot set of abs.. and yeah I am a shallow gal at times. (laughs) But I can say I loooooved this book. So much that I have listened to it on the audiobook twice since I got ot on the 31st! Its that good. Anyone who likes a good thrill ride, hot men and dogs will be all over this.
***small spoiler alert***
DEA Special Agent Scott Lucca and his K-9 partner Izzy are about to be teamed up with Maryland K-9 officer Nicole “Cole” Jamison to work an undercover case to put a stop to a puppy mill and drug smuggling ring. Officer Jamison and her K-9 partner, Hugo are a close team, both ready to do something new and more. But when she is called into meet with the DEA about the case someone from her past walks in. Scott Lucca is not just the man in charge of the team that is going undercover but he is Cole’s ex-husband. To say she was perplexed with this situation is putting it mildly. She turns down the job. There is no way she can work with Scott. No way. She may have said no… but Scott wasn’t ready to take no for an answer. When he shows up at her home, file folder in hand he does what he needs to do to get her on board. Reluctantly, she finally agrees.
Both Cole and Scott are sent to Yardley Summer’s (the grand puba) of dog training is the one person that can make this team seem like they know that they are doing. As the owner and operator of Harmony Kennels to get the K-9 units on the same page. Yard (as her friend’s referred to her) was known in the dog world. She trains for everyone and its a big deal to be sent to her. She is the now tasked with making both teams move and act as one… not an easy task but hey, if anyone can do it it is she can. As Hugo starts his agility training Scott works with Izzy to make sure she sniffer is up to par with what they will be doing. A couple of DEA agents come down to help both Cole and Scott get into their undercover roles. A few days after they started Cole finally was able to get into her new role as “Noel Jenkins” after a ride one of the DEA agents motorcycle… and they both benefited from that.
The next evening though things went from better to crazy. Scott finds out his father has had a heart attack after coming home from a night out with his mom. Their house had been destroyed due to a break in. Scott had to get to New Jersey, now and after a small amount of apprehension he agrees to let Cole go home with him. A few hours later they are at the hospital to check on his dad. His dad was stable for now. They were waiting on test to see what happened next. Scott went to his parent’s home to secure the place while they waited on the tests. Scott met with one of the local cops and walked through the disaster of the Lucca home. They think its a prank but Scott has other ideas. When he came back Scott stayed with his mom, awaiting the results of his dad’s surgery, and he sent Cole went to a motel with the dogs to rest. But she couldn’t sleep so Cole went to the Lucca house and met with the insurance agent, took pictures of the mess and started cleaning, salvaging what she could. She had to do something, she couldn’t just sit around and do nothing.
Scoot, being ready for a fight, anything to get the anger and worry out of him tries to take it out on Cole but she knows he is fighting something inside and doesn’t let him do it. She lets it all slide off of him. As they cleaned Cole found something.. something that confirmed his worry. Even if the local cops didn’t see the symbolism of it. Now, he had one more thing on his plate to worry about. When Scott calls his ex-handler to give him an update he finds out that there is word on the street that there is a bounty out for a Narc. Aka they are looking for him. Cole and Hugo would be taking a bus back to the Kennels and wait for Scott. He had a few things to do but she was really running from her feelings.
When they got back to Harmony Kennels they got the last of their training under them and set off to start their undercover work. And Cole kept a secret, one that may have confirmed a few of Scott’s thoughts towards what had happened at his parent’s home. With their assignment now under way, things started off slow, Cole panicking that she and Hugo wouldn’t cut it in the rings. But they were fast picking up their paces. And then, they meet their mark, Shawanna and things are off. As they work closer together, the feelings between them grows as well. But they had to put them aside as they focused on the job. Nothing was coming up to mark Shawanna as a part of this puppy mill. But the hype is all in her head. Hugo and Cole are both a hit on the ring. Not at the top of the leaderboards but not at the bottom either. Things are looking up for this gig. And after everything that has happened both Cole and Scott grow closer again.Scott realizes he still loves her. And is now determined to do any and everything he can to keep her in his life. To make up for the past.
Scott decides a night out is what they need, not only as Scott and Cole but Sam and Noel need a night out. She controlled the last time they were together, well tonight was “Sam’s turn”. Arcade games, Pizza and a walk that turned from cold to burning hot was what they needed. Scott needed Cole like he needed air. And to prove it.. well he took her in an alley, against the brick wall and she was begging for it. Seems that spark was not lost after all. But their coupling is quickly interrupted when two bikers show up. Scott’s fear is coming to life. X is the one after him, now he is sending others after them too? His protective instincts kick in, full force. Thankfully cops show up and the bikers haul ass. And after flashing a badge Scott and Cole go into a coffee shop and Cole tells him about your experience a few days earlier with the biker she met on the road. Now, no matter what he has to get to X before he tries something else.
When they get back out into the circuits and letting the weekends of “Dog Shows” take over they get closer and closer to their mark but things aren't looking up. Shawanna seems to be on the innocent side here. They are not finding anything to say she is in on the puppy mill. After a night spent with Shawanna at her home for a dogs birthday party things change from good to bad. Shawanna asks her to come to a dog show that she is not in and ambushes her when she gets there. There is a newspaper article showing Cole and Hugo after some work they had done. TV cameras, people with cell phones, all surrounding them. She had been caught thanks to X. His signature ‘X’ on the bottom of the paper said all it needed to. There was no way to stop what had happened now.
The case was folded up. Busted. Now they had to figure out what to do next without being on this case. But Scott not being ready to give up starts to work on a new home front. He isn’t giving up neither is Cole. So with a little bit of side work on their own they piece together what they should have seen from the beginning. The only people that were there all the time. People that no one would have seen coming. When they get a play of motion under hand they get things going in the right direction and start taking down the people behind the puppy mill. But the fun doesn't stop there. X is still in this to make Scott’s life a mess before he comes for him. This puts Cole in danger. But a danger she is willing to take. So when X comes for her she is expecting it but what she wasn't expecting was when and how. Now, its up to Scott to make sure he gets to her in time and take down the ass that has been causing him problems for so long.
***small spoiler alert***
DEA Special Agent Scott Lucca and his K-9 partner Izzy are about to be teamed up with Maryland K-9 officer Nicole “Cole” Jamison to work an undercover case to put a stop to a puppy mill and drug smuggling ring. Officer Jamison and her K-9 partner, Hugo are a close team, both ready to do something new and more. But when she is called into meet with the DEA about the case someone from her past walks in. Scott Lucca is not just the man in charge of the team that is going undercover but he is Cole’s ex-husband. To say she was perplexed with this situation is putting it mildly. She turns down the job. There is no way she can work with Scott. No way. She may have said no… but Scott wasn’t ready to take no for an answer. When he shows up at her home, file folder in hand he does what he needs to do to get her on board. Reluctantly, she finally agrees.
Both Cole and Scott are sent to Yardley Summer’s (the grand puba) of dog training is the one person that can make this team seem like they know that they are doing. As the owner and operator of Harmony Kennels to get the K-9 units on the same page. Yard (as her friend’s referred to her) was known in the dog world. She trains for everyone and its a big deal to be sent to her. She is the now tasked with making both teams move and act as one… not an easy task but hey, if anyone can do it it is she can. As Hugo starts his agility training Scott works with Izzy to make sure she sniffer is up to par with what they will be doing. A couple of DEA agents come down to help both Cole and Scott get into their undercover roles. A few days after they started Cole finally was able to get into her new role as “Noel Jenkins” after a ride one of the DEA agents motorcycle… and they both benefited from that.
The next evening though things went from better to crazy. Scott finds out his father has had a heart attack after coming home from a night out with his mom. Their house had been destroyed due to a break in. Scott had to get to New Jersey, now and after a small amount of apprehension he agrees to let Cole go home with him. A few hours later they are at the hospital to check on his dad. His dad was stable for now. They were waiting on test to see what happened next. Scott went to his parent’s home to secure the place while they waited on the tests. Scott met with one of the local cops and walked through the disaster of the Lucca home. They think its a prank but Scott has other ideas. When he came back Scott stayed with his mom, awaiting the results of his dad’s surgery, and he sent Cole went to a motel with the dogs to rest. But she couldn’t sleep so Cole went to the Lucca house and met with the insurance agent, took pictures of the mess and started cleaning, salvaging what she could. She had to do something, she couldn’t just sit around and do nothing.
Scoot, being ready for a fight, anything to get the anger and worry out of him tries to take it out on Cole but she knows he is fighting something inside and doesn’t let him do it. She lets it all slide off of him. As they cleaned Cole found something.. something that confirmed his worry. Even if the local cops didn’t see the symbolism of it. Now, he had one more thing on his plate to worry about. When Scott calls his ex-handler to give him an update he finds out that there is word on the street that there is a bounty out for a Narc. Aka they are looking for him. Cole and Hugo would be taking a bus back to the Kennels and wait for Scott. He had a few things to do but she was really running from her feelings.
When they got back to Harmony Kennels they got the last of their training under them and set off to start their undercover work. And Cole kept a secret, one that may have confirmed a few of Scott’s thoughts towards what had happened at his parent’s home. With their assignment now under way, things started off slow, Cole panicking that she and Hugo wouldn’t cut it in the rings. But they were fast picking up their paces. And then, they meet their mark, Shawanna and things are off. As they work closer together, the feelings between them grows as well. But they had to put them aside as they focused on the job. Nothing was coming up to mark Shawanna as a part of this puppy mill. But the hype is all in her head. Hugo and Cole are both a hit on the ring. Not at the top of the leaderboards but not at the bottom either. Things are looking up for this gig. And after everything that has happened both Cole and Scott grow closer again.Scott realizes he still loves her. And is now determined to do any and everything he can to keep her in his life. To make up for the past.
Scott decides a night out is what they need, not only as Scott and Cole but Sam and Noel need a night out. She controlled the last time they were together, well tonight was “Sam’s turn”. Arcade games, Pizza and a walk that turned from cold to burning hot was what they needed. Scott needed Cole like he needed air. And to prove it.. well he took her in an alley, against the brick wall and she was begging for it. Seems that spark was not lost after all. But their coupling is quickly interrupted when two bikers show up. Scott’s fear is coming to life. X is the one after him, now he is sending others after them too? His protective instincts kick in, full force. Thankfully cops show up and the bikers haul ass. And after flashing a badge Scott and Cole go into a coffee shop and Cole tells him about your experience a few days earlier with the biker she met on the road. Now, no matter what he has to get to X before he tries something else.
When they get back out into the circuits and letting the weekends of “Dog Shows” take over they get closer and closer to their mark but things aren't looking up. Shawanna seems to be on the innocent side here. They are not finding anything to say she is in on the puppy mill. After a night spent with Shawanna at her home for a dogs birthday party things change from good to bad. Shawanna asks her to come to a dog show that she is not in and ambushes her when she gets there. There is a newspaper article showing Cole and Hugo after some work they had done. TV cameras, people with cell phones, all surrounding them. She had been caught thanks to X. His signature ‘X’ on the bottom of the paper said all it needed to. There was no way to stop what had happened now.
The case was folded up. Busted. Now they had to figure out what to do next without being on this case. But Scott not being ready to give up starts to work on a new home front. He isn’t giving up neither is Cole. So with a little bit of side work on their own they piece together what they should have seen from the beginning. The only people that were there all the time. People that no one would have seen coming. When they get a play of motion under hand they get things going in the right direction and start taking down the people behind the puppy mill. But the fun doesn't stop there. X is still in this to make Scott’s life a mess before he comes for him. This puts Cole in danger. But a danger she is willing to take. So when X comes for her she is expecting it but what she wasn't expecting was when and how. Now, its up to Scott to make sure he gets to her in time and take down the ass that has been causing him problems for so long.
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