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Shillings Agency #2
Stealing His Heart
A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...
If he’s not careful, she’ll steal his heart, too...
Tara Harris is a professional thief with a conscience. She makes her living retrieving priceless stolen items from sleazy rich jerks, and returning them to their rightful owners. Until a routine nighttime assignment when Tara suddenly finds herself pinned against the wall. And oh, does the hard male body pressed against her feel good. And damned familiar...
Busted.
Jake Forsythe was Tara's former burglary partner, until he left her naked in bed—unsatisfied—and disappeared from her life years ago. Now he's back, hotter and more naughtily delicious than ever. And he has a nice, blackmailing kind of proposition—Tara can either help him with a secret project, or she can go to jail. But the moment Tara agrees to help Jake, she realizes she's just made a deal with a sexy-assed devil. Because this time, she stands to lose something more precious than any rare objets d'art...
If he’s not careful, she’ll steal his heart, too...
Tara Harris is a professional thief with a conscience. She makes her living retrieving priceless stolen items from sleazy rich jerks, and returning them to their rightful owners. Until a routine nighttime assignment when Tara suddenly finds herself pinned against the wall. And oh, does the hard male body pressed against her feel good. And damned familiar...
Busted.
Jake Forsythe was Tara's former burglary partner, until he left her naked in bed—unsatisfied—and disappeared from her life years ago. Now he's back, hotter and more naughtily delicious than ever. And he has a nice, blackmailing kind of proposition—Tara can either help him with a secret project, or she can go to jail. But the moment Tara agrees to help Jake, she realizes she's just made a deal with a sexy-assed devil. Because this time, she stands to lose something more precious than any rare objets d'art...
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2014
32 people are currently reading
765 people want to read
About the author
Diane Alberts
34 books1,145 followersDiane Alberts is a USA TODAY bestselling Contemporary Romance author with Entangled Publishing. Under the name Jen McLaughlin, she also writes New York Times, USA TODAY, and Wall Street Journal bestselling books with Penguin RandomHouse. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. Diane is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.
Diane has always been a dreamer with a vivid imagination, but it wasn’t until 2011 that she put her pen where her brain was, and became a published author. Since receiving her first contract offer, she has yet to stop writing. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many fantastic stories that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
- See more at: http://www.dianealberts.com/about/#st...
Diane has always been a dreamer with a vivid imagination, but it wasn’t until 2011 that she put her pen where her brain was, and became a published author. Since receiving her first contract offer, she has yet to stop writing. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many fantastic stories that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
- See more at: http://www.dianealberts.com/about/#st...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 23, 2014
4 Stars
Well slap my ass and fuck me sideways but Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin knows how to write one sinfully hot hero. Good lawd. You want a dominant hero with a filthy mouth then you NEED to meet Jake Forsythe. Did I also happen to mention the tats? Because that's just the icing on top of the alpha cake here...
Jake is a security expert at Shillings Agency hired to lure a thief that managed to infiltrate a safe for one of the agency's clients. There's just one problem; the thief happens to be his childhood friend, almost lover, and constant temptation Tara Harris.
Not quite, Jake. Not quite.
Tara is a thief. Hired by clients that are looking to reclaim their rightful property, she steals from the rich and corrupted. Call her a thief with a code of honor. The last person she expects to see while on a new op is her childhood friend and the man that almost took her virginity and then walked out of her life over eight years ago. And now he's back...and blackmailing her into helping him. Combination for disaster or reigniting an old flame? How about a little of both?
Tara was sassy and smart mouthed, but I wished she made Jake work for things a little harder. Especially when he would royally fuck up (and boy did he), she let him off too easy in my opinion.
Jake is broody and domineering with a bit of kink thrown in.
Did I mention broody?
While I felt for him, I also felt like he was a straight up ass to Tara during the first half. Their first time? I wanted to jock punch him for how he handled it after.
While the dominating during sex was mostly hot, at times it didn't quite work for me. The thing of it is, there's a fine line between making a hero be dominant without having him be Dominant. You feel me? What I mean is, there's a fine line of skating around the BDSM genre. I understand this is not a BDSM romance, but Jake had Dom-like kinks, sadly he didn't quite come off as a Dom. More like a hot asshole with a control fetish. I felt that the lines were crossed for me a few times, and I really wasn't a big fan of that.
He does soften up a little towards the second half...until his royal fuck up at the end. But no worries, because there's also a verra nice grovel. The grovel most certainly won me over. Tara finally did what I wished she'd done more of throughout the rest of the book, she made him work for it. Hard.
But all that aside, let's talk about Gordon (another character that was introduced here) for a hot second here. We have sexy, tattoos, mysterious and broken. Oh and when I stalked the author down she also said he's a very very bad boy. Ummmm....SOLD! Cannot wait for his book.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
I know you want me. Know you want to feel me moving inside of you, making you come so many times you lose count. I know you want me to dominate you. Take you. Fuck you. Own you.
Well slap my ass and fuck me sideways but Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin knows how to write one sinfully hot hero. Good lawd. You want a dominant hero with a filthy mouth then you NEED to meet Jake Forsythe. Did I also happen to mention the tats? Because that's just the icing on top of the alpha cake here...
Jake is a security expert at Shillings Agency hired to lure a thief that managed to infiltrate a safe for one of the agency's clients. There's just one problem; the thief happens to be his childhood friend, almost lover, and constant temptation Tara Harris.
Not quite, Jake. Not quite.
Tara is a thief. Hired by clients that are looking to reclaim their rightful property, she steals from the rich and corrupted. Call her a thief with a code of honor. The last person she expects to see while on a new op is her childhood friend and the man that almost took her virginity and then walked out of her life over eight years ago. And now he's back...and blackmailing her into helping him. Combination for disaster or reigniting an old flame? How about a little of both?
Tara was sassy and smart mouthed, but I wished she made Jake work for things a little harder. Especially when he would royally fuck up (and boy did he), she let him off too easy in my opinion.
Jake is broody and domineering with a bit of kink thrown in.
Did I mention broody?
"What about now?" she whispered.
"Now I'm beyond hope. Nothing can save me. Not even you."
While I felt for him, I also felt like he was a straight up ass to Tara during the first half. Their first time? I wanted to jock punch him for how he handled it after.
While the dominating during sex was mostly hot, at times it didn't quite work for me. The thing of it is, there's a fine line between making a hero be dominant without having him be Dominant. You feel me? What I mean is, there's a fine line of skating around the BDSM genre. I understand this is not a BDSM romance, but Jake had Dom-like kinks, sadly he didn't quite come off as a Dom. More like a hot asshole with a control fetish. I felt that the lines were crossed for me a few times, and I really wasn't a big fan of that.
He does soften up a little towards the second half...until his royal fuck up at the end. But no worries, because there's also a verra nice grovel. The grovel most certainly won me over. Tara finally did what I wished she'd done more of throughout the rest of the book, she made him work for it. Hard.
But all that aside, let's talk about Gordon (another character that was introduced here) for a hot second here. We have sexy, tattoos, mysterious and broken. Oh and when I stalked the author down she also said he's a very very bad boy. Ummmm....SOLD! Cannot wait for his book.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
December 14, 2014
3 - "Keep your chakra off my shit." Stars.
Stealing his Heart is book 2 in the Shillings Agency series, and whereas Kayla and Cooper from book one were quite an easygoing pair, with a few commitment issues, Jake and Tara are pretty much the opposite. Both have pretty dark and interconnected pasts, but through life circumstances, and lifestyle choices have not really had a lot to do with each other over the last few years.
One and ex-serviceman operates very much inside the lines of the law, while the other very much operates outside of it; unfortunately a client of the Shillings Agency has been the subject of Tara’s own style of vigilante justice, and Jake is given the job of discovering her secrets, and rectifying the problem before the Police are involved.
”I have no intention of taking advantage of you… in that way. I’m only interested in your brain, and how you can help me get my job done.”
Of course this isn’t totally true, and Tara eventually pushes Jake’s buttons enough that he is stepping over the lines he has set himself, and well outside of his comfort-zone when it comes his self-control. This side of Jake is not something Tara has really experienced before, and Jake tries to keep himself in check believing she deserves better.
He didn’t lose control, and he didn’t act without thinking.
Ever.
As previously mentioned, this book felt a little darker and heavier than Temporarily Yours, whereas the first book was based around a couple who didn’t previously know each other, being thrown together in unusual and often funny circumstances with lots and lots of swoon worthy sexy-times thrown in. Jake and Tara have a past, and issues with each other that they try to work through.
”You seem to be forgetting that I’ve been in your arms already. You didn’t scare me then, and you don’t scare me now.”
I liked this addition to the Shillings Agency series; Jen is an author whose writing style I have come to enjoy immensely. This book didn’t have the WOW that I have come to associate with her couples normally, but it was still a really enjoyable read. The main thing that stood out for me was a certain guy also employed by Cooper Shillings, and he goes by the name of Gordon… Tell me more Ms. McLaughlin!
ARC generously provided by Entangled for the above honest review.
Stealing his Heart is book 2 in the Shillings Agency series, and whereas Kayla and Cooper from book one were quite an easygoing pair, with a few commitment issues, Jake and Tara are pretty much the opposite. Both have pretty dark and interconnected pasts, but through life circumstances, and lifestyle choices have not really had a lot to do with each other over the last few years.
One and ex-serviceman operates very much inside the lines of the law, while the other very much operates outside of it; unfortunately a client of the Shillings Agency has been the subject of Tara’s own style of vigilante justice, and Jake is given the job of discovering her secrets, and rectifying the problem before the Police are involved.
”I have no intention of taking advantage of you… in that way. I’m only interested in your brain, and how you can help me get my job done.”
Of course this isn’t totally true, and Tara eventually pushes Jake’s buttons enough that he is stepping over the lines he has set himself, and well outside of his comfort-zone when it comes his self-control. This side of Jake is not something Tara has really experienced before, and Jake tries to keep himself in check believing she deserves better.
He didn’t lose control, and he didn’t act without thinking.
Ever.
As previously mentioned, this book felt a little darker and heavier than Temporarily Yours, whereas the first book was based around a couple who didn’t previously know each other, being thrown together in unusual and often funny circumstances with lots and lots of swoon worthy sexy-times thrown in. Jake and Tara have a past, and issues with each other that they try to work through.
”You seem to be forgetting that I’ve been in your arms already. You didn’t scare me then, and you don’t scare me now.”
I liked this addition to the Shillings Agency series; Jen is an author whose writing style I have come to enjoy immensely. This book didn’t have the WOW that I have come to associate with her couples normally, but it was still a really enjoyable read. The main thing that stood out for me was a certain guy also employed by Cooper Shillings, and he goes by the name of Gordon… Tell me more Ms. McLaughlin!
ARC generously provided by Entangled for the above honest review.
May 4, 2015
On the whole the second book in the Shillings Agency series doesn't disappoint and as is customary in a Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin novel, we have a hot hero, a woman who's not afraid to go toe-to-toe with him, sizzling chemistry and equally sizzling sexy shenanigans. Jake Forsythe and Tara Harris have a history and when he discovers the thief he's been contracted to find is the girl he left behind at 18, it matters not that she is doing it with the best of intentions. He has a job to do and she has a choice; co-operate & submit to his requests, or end up behind bars.
Stealing his Heart was a mixed bag for me. Tara is my kind of girl. Strong, fiery-tempered, and independent, she can hold her own. Jake is a complete contradiction of himself; bossy yet gentle, protective yet vulnerable and arrogant yet unsure. Their sparring was natural, had spark and being told from both perspectives gave us a real insight into their histories and showed exactly how each had changed.
Jake's history, both growing up and in the marines has left him a bit of a loner and whilst he can come across as cold, his words are filled with heat...
“In bed, you’ll answer to me without thinking twice. If you can do that, you’ll be very, very happy. I promise you that.”
And amongst the heat is humour; Tara has a wicked playful side and it was truly heartwarming to see her begin to unearth Jake's lighter side...
“Pink’s always been one of my favorite colors, but I never thought of doing the bathroom in that scheme. It’s delightful.”
But he wasn't what it would class as a real dominant and Tara calling him 'Sir' didn't really feel right. Plus I really would have liked more made of the bad guy aspect - I thought it was building up to some possible action. Nevertheless it was still a hot and heartfelt romance. 3.5 stars.
(Whilst this is second in the series and characters do cross over, it can easily be read as a standalone. It's also very loosely tied to Diane's Wedding Dare novel, Falling for the Groomsman, as Jake is Christine's brother).
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion
Stealing his Heart was a mixed bag for me. Tara is my kind of girl. Strong, fiery-tempered, and independent, she can hold her own. Jake is a complete contradiction of himself; bossy yet gentle, protective yet vulnerable and arrogant yet unsure. Their sparring was natural, had spark and being told from both perspectives gave us a real insight into their histories and showed exactly how each had changed.
Jake's history, both growing up and in the marines has left him a bit of a loner and whilst he can come across as cold, his words are filled with heat...
“In bed, you’ll answer to me without thinking twice. If you can do that, you’ll be very, very happy. I promise you that.”
And amongst the heat is humour; Tara has a wicked playful side and it was truly heartwarming to see her begin to unearth Jake's lighter side...
“Pink’s always been one of my favorite colors, but I never thought of doing the bathroom in that scheme. It’s delightful.”
But he wasn't what it would class as a real dominant and Tara calling him 'Sir' didn't really feel right. Plus I really would have liked more made of the bad guy aspect - I thought it was building up to some possible action. Nevertheless it was still a hot and heartfelt romance. 3.5 stars.
(Whilst this is second in the series and characters do cross over, it can easily be read as a standalone. It's also very loosely tied to Diane's Wedding Dare novel, Falling for the Groomsman, as Jake is Christine's brother).
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion
August 25, 2014
*ARC generously provided by Brazen Entangled Publishing in return for an honest review.*
Soo, I will be honest I hated the first part of this story. Jake & Tara are longtime friends. And if you've read The Wedding Dare series, you'll remember Jake is also Christine's little brother. But put that aside, Jake seemed loveless in the first few chapters, cold even. He dominated Tara in cold detached manor that completely rubbed me the wrong way considering their lifelong friendship. I guess I expected more of a profound connection regardless of his need to be a dominating alpha male. BUT as soon as I told myself to continue on regardless of how I was feeling about the start, Jake slowly melted. In the end redemption was given, and I loved it and the beginning made complete sense. Five Fluffy five stars from me ;)
Soo, I will be honest I hated the first part of this story. Jake & Tara are longtime friends. And if you've read The Wedding Dare series, you'll remember Jake is also Christine's little brother. But put that aside, Jake seemed loveless in the first few chapters, cold even. He dominated Tara in cold detached manor that completely rubbed me the wrong way considering their lifelong friendship. I guess I expected more of a profound connection regardless of his need to be a dominating alpha male. BUT as soon as I told myself to continue on regardless of how I was feeling about the start, Jake slowly melted. In the end redemption was given, and I loved it and the beginning made complete sense. Five Fluffy five stars from me ;)
August 20, 2014
***** 3.5 stars*****
This second installment of the Shillings Agency brings readers two criminals, a second chance fiery romance, and some seriously funny moments that will have you giggling. Tara and Jake have a thieving past…one that left her bitter and sent him running. Now, the tables have turned for Jake and he’s on the side that’s trying to keep out the would-be criminals, but she’s still sneaking her way in to grab the goods. As Jake’s latest job with the private security company has him finding the culprit that managed to get by their system, he comes face-to-face with the woman who used to be his partner. She’s still in the game, but now she’s acting as a sultry feminine version of Robin Hood as she steals from the deceitful and gives items back to their rightful owners. Too bad that doesn’t make Jake’s job any easier, as he has to find the secret to Tara’s ability to break into even the most complex systems…or send her off to pay for her crimes.
Tara and Jake had great chemistry from the start; from the moment she realized it was him who had her caught in the act, there were sparks flying! Jake has this underlying dom side that led to some smokin’ hot dialogue between them, and Tara held her own and certainly gave him a run for his money whenever she got the chance. You had to respect her position, despite the fact that what she was doing was illegal. So when Jake was so insistent on her admitting how she managed to break in, part of me was kind of cheering her on when she stood her ground and refused. It did drag a little in parts given that she was just pretending to be busy figuring out how she’d done it, but there was also some great moments between her and Jake that were a lovely distraction!
Underneath the sexual tension and years of frustration built up, Jake and Tara had this cute banter thanks to her silly side. She brought out the fun side to him with her childish but completely goofy pranks and comments, and they had me laughing out loud. I loved her strength as a heroine, with the ability to cave when the moment called for it. She made them a fun couple, and it was definitely entertaining to watch their relationship morph into something new. Stealing His Heart was a fun and sexy read, and a great end-of-summer romance to kick back with!
Quotes:
“We’ve had every single high-tech person we can possibly think of try to get past the security system I set up. Everyone has failed. Everyone except you.”
She pursed her lips. They’d never been so damn kissable. “So what? I can’t help it that I’m smarter than the average theif,” she said. ~p. 26
“You still smell good. Like flowers.”
Her stomach clenched. One simple sentence, and she was ready to jump him. ~p. 31
“You’re so ridiculous. Cats? Cats?”
He lost it again.
Her lips twitched, and she joined in, laughing harder than she had in years. “It seemed fitting.” ~p. 98
Find this and more of my reviews at:
http://www.autumnreview.com/search/la...
This second installment of the Shillings Agency brings readers two criminals, a second chance fiery romance, and some seriously funny moments that will have you giggling. Tara and Jake have a thieving past…one that left her bitter and sent him running. Now, the tables have turned for Jake and he’s on the side that’s trying to keep out the would-be criminals, but she’s still sneaking her way in to grab the goods. As Jake’s latest job with the private security company has him finding the culprit that managed to get by their system, he comes face-to-face with the woman who used to be his partner. She’s still in the game, but now she’s acting as a sultry feminine version of Robin Hood as she steals from the deceitful and gives items back to their rightful owners. Too bad that doesn’t make Jake’s job any easier, as he has to find the secret to Tara’s ability to break into even the most complex systems…or send her off to pay for her crimes.
Tara and Jake had great chemistry from the start; from the moment she realized it was him who had her caught in the act, there were sparks flying! Jake has this underlying dom side that led to some smokin’ hot dialogue between them, and Tara held her own and certainly gave him a run for his money whenever she got the chance. You had to respect her position, despite the fact that what she was doing was illegal. So when Jake was so insistent on her admitting how she managed to break in, part of me was kind of cheering her on when she stood her ground and refused. It did drag a little in parts given that she was just pretending to be busy figuring out how she’d done it, but there was also some great moments between her and Jake that were a lovely distraction!
Underneath the sexual tension and years of frustration built up, Jake and Tara had this cute banter thanks to her silly side. She brought out the fun side to him with her childish but completely goofy pranks and comments, and they had me laughing out loud. I loved her strength as a heroine, with the ability to cave when the moment called for it. She made them a fun couple, and it was definitely entertaining to watch their relationship morph into something new. Stealing His Heart was a fun and sexy read, and a great end-of-summer romance to kick back with!
Quotes:
“We’ve had every single high-tech person we can possibly think of try to get past the security system I set up. Everyone has failed. Everyone except you.”
She pursed her lips. They’d never been so damn kissable. “So what? I can’t help it that I’m smarter than the average theif,” she said. ~p. 26
“You still smell good. Like flowers.”
Her stomach clenched. One simple sentence, and she was ready to jump him. ~p. 31
“You’re so ridiculous. Cats? Cats?”
He lost it again.
Her lips twitched, and she joined in, laughing harder than she had in years. “It seemed fitting.” ~p. 98
Find this and more of my reviews at:
http://www.autumnreview.com/search/la...
February 15, 2016
Find this review and more at
kimberlyfaye reads
.
I'm pretty new to Entangled's Brazen imprint and I could kick myself for not discovering its pure, sexy awesomeness sooner. I swear I love it more with every single book I read. They're perfect little bite-sized books with alpha men and sassy women and I just love to devour them in one sitting. I love how the characters in each book all intermingle in some way with the characters in the other books, particularly in the Shillings Agency series, because I just love these characters.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. I'm a sucker for a good second chance story. That's exactly what I got with Stealing His Heart. Tara and Jake have history. They were partners, friends and, briefly, nearly lovers. Now they're at odds with each other. Tara is a modern-day Robin Hood, stealing items from the rich – items they, themselves, stole – and returning them to the rightful owner. Jake is part of the Shillings Agency private security company and her latest target is one of their clients. He's tasked with getting the item back and returning it to the client. She's not willing to play along, even if it means she has to go to jail. As they are shoved together again, a great battle of the wills breaks out between them.
Tara and Jake were complete opposites, but still a perfect match. She was light, sassy and even kinda goofy at times. He was cold and dominating and didn't find much joy in the world. Tara remembers when he wasn't though and she keeps seeing glimpses of that man underneath his hard exterior. She's determined to get that guy back. He's determined to get the info he needs so they can go their separate ways before she wiggles her way back into his heart. Combine their history with the sexual tension that oozes from them and this book becomes a great, steamy read.
I loved reading along as Tara and Jake broke down each others walls. It was obvious from the start that there was something between them and it didn't take too long into the story before it all came to a head. The feelings were real. The sexy scenes were HOT. (I love a good dominating dirty-talker.) They were both protective of the other and I liked where that led the story.
Whether she's writing adult books as Diane Alberts or new adult as Jen McLaughlin, I love this lady's books. They have the perfect combination of HOT men, smart and sassy women, sweet romance and steamy sexy times. She's definitely on my auto-buy list. I'm already looking forward to see what she writes next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I'm pretty new to Entangled's Brazen imprint and I could kick myself for not discovering its pure, sexy awesomeness sooner. I swear I love it more with every single book I read. They're perfect little bite-sized books with alpha men and sassy women and I just love to devour them in one sitting. I love how the characters in each book all intermingle in some way with the characters in the other books, particularly in the Shillings Agency series, because I just love these characters.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. I'm a sucker for a good second chance story. That's exactly what I got with Stealing His Heart. Tara and Jake have history. They were partners, friends and, briefly, nearly lovers. Now they're at odds with each other. Tara is a modern-day Robin Hood, stealing items from the rich – items they, themselves, stole – and returning them to the rightful owner. Jake is part of the Shillings Agency private security company and her latest target is one of their clients. He's tasked with getting the item back and returning it to the client. She's not willing to play along, even if it means she has to go to jail. As they are shoved together again, a great battle of the wills breaks out between them.
Tara and Jake were complete opposites, but still a perfect match. She was light, sassy and even kinda goofy at times. He was cold and dominating and didn't find much joy in the world. Tara remembers when he wasn't though and she keeps seeing glimpses of that man underneath his hard exterior. She's determined to get that guy back. He's determined to get the info he needs so they can go their separate ways before she wiggles her way back into his heart. Combine their history with the sexual tension that oozes from them and this book becomes a great, steamy read.
I loved reading along as Tara and Jake broke down each others walls. It was obvious from the start that there was something between them and it didn't take too long into the story before it all came to a head. The feelings were real. The sexy scenes were HOT. (I love a good dominating dirty-talker.) They were both protective of the other and I liked where that led the story.
Whether she's writing adult books as Diane Alberts or new adult as Jen McLaughlin, I love this lady's books. They have the perfect combination of HOT men, smart and sassy women, sweet romance and steamy sexy times. She's definitely on my auto-buy list. I'm already looking forward to see what she writes next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2014
ARC generously provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
3 really, really dirty stars
This is the 2nd book in the Shillings Agency series, and follows Tara Harris and Jake Forsythe (Christine’s younger brother, who we were introduced to in Diane Albert’s contribution to the Wedding Dare series.)
Jake has been physically and emotionally scarred during his time in the military, and as a result of this, his girlfriend at the time scooted off. As a security specialist at Shillings Agency, his latest task is to identify the thief who managed to infiltrate his sophisticated alarm system of one of the Agency’s “prestigious” clients.
Tara Harris is a thief; well an educated thief in that she only steals to return her clients property that has been stolen previously. Being independently wealthy, she is not driven by financial gain. She has morals.
Jake and Tara have history; they were best buddies and used to run “tricks” together. That was until they got a little hot & heavy one night, and Jake left her wanting. Word is it may have been her who bypassed his system, so he needs to make contact, break the code and save her.
I enjoyed this story; Tara was a spunky, ninja burglar, who was passionate to her cause. She was humorous, controversial and took Jake’s darkness and flipped it.
Jake was affected by his past injuries, and had forgotten to laugh. He constantly alluded to his “darkness” and how he wasn’t good enough for Tara. He implied he liked control, which made me think he was going to be a little more dominant than he turned out to be, but that didn’t detract from his really, really, dirty sexy self.
3 really, really dirty stars
This is the 2nd book in the Shillings Agency series, and follows Tara Harris and Jake Forsythe (Christine’s younger brother, who we were introduced to in Diane Albert’s contribution to the Wedding Dare series.)
Jake has been physically and emotionally scarred during his time in the military, and as a result of this, his girlfriend at the time scooted off. As a security specialist at Shillings Agency, his latest task is to identify the thief who managed to infiltrate his sophisticated alarm system of one of the Agency’s “prestigious” clients.
Tara Harris is a thief; well an educated thief in that she only steals to return her clients property that has been stolen previously. Being independently wealthy, she is not driven by financial gain. She has morals.
Jake and Tara have history; they were best buddies and used to run “tricks” together. That was until they got a little hot & heavy one night, and Jake left her wanting. Word is it may have been her who bypassed his system, so he needs to make contact, break the code and save her.
I enjoyed this story; Tara was a spunky, ninja burglar, who was passionate to her cause. She was humorous, controversial and took Jake’s darkness and flipped it.
Jake was affected by his past injuries, and had forgotten to laugh. He constantly alluded to his “darkness” and how he wasn’t good enough for Tara. He implied he liked control, which made me think he was going to be a little more dominant than he turned out to be, but that didn’t detract from his really, really, dirty sexy self.
August 26, 2014
This is book #2 in the Shillings Agency series but it can totally stand alone.
Jake is my favorite kind of hero. He's a wounded warrior who doesn't think he's worthy of being loved because of what he went through as a teen. He was wounded in the military and now works in a security agency. He's reunited with the girl he loved as a teen when they end up on opposite sides of a case. Tara works as a modern day Robin Hood, reclaiming items stolen and returning them to their proper owner. She's strong and independent, but has never forgotten the Jake she knew as a teen. They're at cross purposes on this case, but their chemistry together is smoking.
Jake is my favorite kind of hero. He's a wounded warrior who doesn't think he's worthy of being loved because of what he went through as a teen. He was wounded in the military and now works in a security agency. He's reunited with the girl he loved as a teen when they end up on opposite sides of a case. Tara works as a modern day Robin Hood, reclaiming items stolen and returning them to their proper owner. She's strong and independent, but has never forgotten the Jake she knew as a teen. They're at cross purposes on this case, but their chemistry together is smoking.
August 22, 2014
i love this series....
ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
August 26, 2014
4**** Jake Forysthe Will Steam Up Your Kindle
What happens when a domineering, straight-laced, dirty mouthed sex on a stick ex-military hero has to team up with a care-free, head-strong, intellectually matched, sarcastically sassy and gorgeous woman? The product sucks you in, steams up your kindle and has you converting to being cheerleader for Team Jara (Jake + Tara).
Two characters with a past history, one involving a cherished friendship that had all the potential to be more, yet life split these two apart. Now 8 years later, Jake Forsythe must confront the one woman he left behind, a woman he never believed he deserved, a woman he fought to keep out of his heart. However, while Jake discovers Tara is still the same beautiful, risk-taking rebel with a feisty mouth, Tara finds the Jake she used to know is a completely different man than the boy she once adored. Time spent in the Marines left Jake with more than physical scars.
Tara lives a life set on retrieving stolen items and returning them to their rightful owners. Does she follow the rules in order to obtain these objects…..ehhh not really. Is she a thief? On paper, but in retrospect her morals are just. Nonetheless, getting caught could land her in jail and unfortunately for her, she is pushed into a corner with only one option of getting out without paying the consequences. Jake, now working for a private security company is left with no choice but to gain her cooperation or turn her in for her crime.
Is it blackmail….absolutely.
Will Tara give Jake a run for his money….hell YES!!
The chemistry between these two is electrifyingly, spark-crackling steamy! The banter keeps you hooked….. I can guarantee you, while Tara will have you laughing out loud
"Don’t smile. You might appear to be human," she said
"Maybe that stick up your ass isn’t stuck as far in as I thought. The Jake I used to know might still be alive and kicking beneath that serious facade."
Jake will have you fanning yourself, not only does this man drip with sex appeal, his mouth will have you squirming in your seat
"'Tara,’ he said, his voice hard and shattered all at once. Leaning in, he whispered, ‘You keep this up, and you’ll be on your back behind the Ferris wheel, and I’ll be so deep inside of you you’ll forget what it feels like not have me there. Tread lightly.'"
Or better yet, he will have you jumping out of your seat, raising your hand to be his pupil
"Go to bed now before I decide to teach you a lesson."
There was plenty of angst between the two characters, however I would of liked more suspense from the bad guy angle. While the duration of the story does occur over a very short period of time, Diane Alberts does a great job recognizing that and you don’t get an insta-love feel. Rather, we are given the right amount of back drop to Jake + Tara’s history. Jake’s character growth over the course of the book was perfect. Tara does not progress much but I didn’t think she needed to, her character was balanced out and really helped bring out the growth in Jake.
The switch in P.O.V allows the reader to get in both character’s heads and Mrs. Alberts does an exceptional job depicting the male voice. She also does not disappoint in the sex department, holy blast your air conditioning, yet she doesn’t go over board with the sex; combination of steam, humor and intrigue. This book is definitely a page turner, one that you can and will easily want too finish in one seating.
~ Tori, 4 stars
What happens when a domineering, straight-laced, dirty mouthed sex on a stick ex-military hero has to team up with a care-free, head-strong, intellectually matched, sarcastically sassy and gorgeous woman? The product sucks you in, steams up your kindle and has you converting to being cheerleader for Team Jara (Jake + Tara).
Two characters with a past history, one involving a cherished friendship that had all the potential to be more, yet life split these two apart. Now 8 years later, Jake Forsythe must confront the one woman he left behind, a woman he never believed he deserved, a woman he fought to keep out of his heart. However, while Jake discovers Tara is still the same beautiful, risk-taking rebel with a feisty mouth, Tara finds the Jake she used to know is a completely different man than the boy she once adored. Time spent in the Marines left Jake with more than physical scars.
Tara lives a life set on retrieving stolen items and returning them to their rightful owners. Does she follow the rules in order to obtain these objects…..ehhh not really. Is she a thief? On paper, but in retrospect her morals are just. Nonetheless, getting caught could land her in jail and unfortunately for her, she is pushed into a corner with only one option of getting out without paying the consequences. Jake, now working for a private security company is left with no choice but to gain her cooperation or turn her in for her crime.
Is it blackmail….absolutely.
Will Tara give Jake a run for his money….hell YES!!
The chemistry between these two is electrifyingly, spark-crackling steamy! The banter keeps you hooked….. I can guarantee you, while Tara will have you laughing out loud
"Don’t smile. You might appear to be human," she said
"Maybe that stick up your ass isn’t stuck as far in as I thought. The Jake I used to know might still be alive and kicking beneath that serious facade."
Jake will have you fanning yourself, not only does this man drip with sex appeal, his mouth will have you squirming in your seat
"'Tara,’ he said, his voice hard and shattered all at once. Leaning in, he whispered, ‘You keep this up, and you’ll be on your back behind the Ferris wheel, and I’ll be so deep inside of you you’ll forget what it feels like not have me there. Tread lightly.'"
Or better yet, he will have you jumping out of your seat, raising your hand to be his pupil
"Go to bed now before I decide to teach you a lesson."
There was plenty of angst between the two characters, however I would of liked more suspense from the bad guy angle. While the duration of the story does occur over a very short period of time, Diane Alberts does a great job recognizing that and you don’t get an insta-love feel. Rather, we are given the right amount of back drop to Jake + Tara’s history. Jake’s character growth over the course of the book was perfect. Tara does not progress much but I didn’t think she needed to, her character was balanced out and really helped bring out the growth in Jake.
The switch in P.O.V allows the reader to get in both character’s heads and Mrs. Alberts does an exceptional job depicting the male voice. She also does not disappoint in the sex department, holy blast your air conditioning, yet she doesn’t go over board with the sex; combination of steam, humor and intrigue. This book is definitely a page turner, one that you can and will easily want too finish in one seating.
~ Tori, 4 stars
August 25, 2014
Friends, partners in crime and almost lovers Jake and Tara have what you could call a history. They haven’t seen each other in years and Jake now works for a private security company, the Shillings Agency. While Tara has turned into a sort-of modern-day Robin Hood. She steals items from rich people, which they themselves have stolen, and then returns them to the rightful owner. One of her latest targets turns out to be one of the Shillings Agency’s clients and brings Jake back into her life. He gives her a choice; jail or giving him the information on how she broke through their security.
Tara is this sassy, smart woman who still knows how to have fun whereas Jake is this dominating, cold, serious man who doesn't smile or laugh anymore. Tara remembers when Jake was different, when he smiled, when he laughed and she keeps getting hints of the man he used to be and she wants that guy back.
Sparks start flying right from the beginning of this book. Jake is a hot, dominating, alpha hero who has this gentle, protective side. Tara, well I freaking adore this girl. She’s strong, independent, but also goofy. I loved how she held her own with Jake, she stood up to him and wouldn't compromise her beliefs but she did it while trying to bring fun back into his life. The sparring was natural, the humor wicked, and the chemistry sizzling. This second chance romance story was sassily fun and will have you sighing and giggling.
Although this is the second book in the series and some of the characters do cross over, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Tara is this sassy, smart woman who still knows how to have fun whereas Jake is this dominating, cold, serious man who doesn't smile or laugh anymore. Tara remembers when Jake was different, when he smiled, when he laughed and she keeps getting hints of the man he used to be and she wants that guy back.
Sparks start flying right from the beginning of this book. Jake is a hot, dominating, alpha hero who has this gentle, protective side. Tara, well I freaking adore this girl. She’s strong, independent, but also goofy. I loved how she held her own with Jake, she stood up to him and wouldn't compromise her beliefs but she did it while trying to bring fun back into his life. The sparring was natural, the humor wicked, and the chemistry sizzling. This second chance romance story was sassily fun and will have you sighing and giggling.
Although this is the second book in the series and some of the characters do cross over, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
September 12, 2014
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books.
A quick, steamy second-chance romance read!
Jake and Tara were friends through thick and thin--and unfortunately for both, there was a lot of "thin" in the early years. Both lost their parents young--Tara was fortunate to move in with a loving grandmother, but Jake ended up with an abusive foster father. Still, they had each other to get them through everything...until Jake wigged out just as they were about to "seal the deal" at the age of eighteen. He joined the Marines soon after, and hadn't been in contact with his childhood friend since.
Fast forward in time--Jake's no longer a part of the war on terror, having come close to losing his leg and nearly dying from an IED. Now he's a security expert with the Shillings Agency and keeping himself emotionally distant from everyone after his fiancee dumped him. Tara's acting as a "recovery specialist"--a Robin Hood of sorts--stealing back items that were originally taken from her clients by wealthy sleezeballs with more money than morals. Unknown to her, Tara's last big job had her blowing through Jake's security system like it was nonexistent, and their client is not a happy camper--so Jake sets a trap for Tara, demanding to know how she got in in exchange for her freedom. If she refuses to help, he'll send her off to jail without a backward look.
The witty back-and-forth conversation--especially from Tara--was one of my favorite parts of the book. It had me laughing out loud more than once while reading. The sex scenes were hot, and the glimpses into their backstories,both shared and separate, were heartbreaking. All good things.
The technical stuff--Tara having to reveal how she got past Jake's system--was a weaker part of the plot. She just didn't seem at all convincing as she tried to put Jake and Cooper (his boss) off, pretending she didn't remember how she'd gotten in. (Seriously, the girl remembered conversations that were a decade old word for word, but didn't remember how she got into her last job?) The method that the two men used to get the information out of her was amazingly transparent--again, a woman with her smarts should have been able to see through it in a second. Fortunately, the story's strengths--Tara and Jake renewing their relationship in all its snarky, steamy glory--more than make up for what the other parts of the plot lack.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
A quick, steamy second-chance romance read!
Jake and Tara were friends through thick and thin--and unfortunately for both, there was a lot of "thin" in the early years. Both lost their parents young--Tara was fortunate to move in with a loving grandmother, but Jake ended up with an abusive foster father. Still, they had each other to get them through everything...until Jake wigged out just as they were about to "seal the deal" at the age of eighteen. He joined the Marines soon after, and hadn't been in contact with his childhood friend since.
Fast forward in time--Jake's no longer a part of the war on terror, having come close to losing his leg and nearly dying from an IED. Now he's a security expert with the Shillings Agency and keeping himself emotionally distant from everyone after his fiancee dumped him. Tara's acting as a "recovery specialist"--a Robin Hood of sorts--stealing back items that were originally taken from her clients by wealthy sleezeballs with more money than morals. Unknown to her, Tara's last big job had her blowing through Jake's security system like it was nonexistent, and their client is not a happy camper--so Jake sets a trap for Tara, demanding to know how she got in in exchange for her freedom. If she refuses to help, he'll send her off to jail without a backward look.
“Nice try, Tara.” He rested his chin on the top of her head. He was pressed so tightly against her that she could feel every inch of his body…even the parts she’d tried so hard to forget about. “I knew who you were before you stepped on that porch.”
She lowered her lids and took a shaky breath. Her traitorous heart sped when his arms flexed around her, and she’d swear he pushed his hips against her even though he hadn’t moved. “Can’t blame a girl for trying, can you? It’s been years since I last saw you.”
She refused to mention what they’d been doing the last time they’d seen each other. It was better left unsaid.
“I suppose it has been, but you’re pretty damn memorable. I mean, you’ve grown up and all…” He lifted his head off of hers, and she could sense him looking down at her. “But you still look the same to me. If I let go, will you behave yourself?”
“Do I ever?” she asked lightly.
“That doesn’t exactly make me want to let go of you,” he said without a trace of amusement in his voice. If anything, he sounded annoyed. “Will you be good, or not? What’s it gonna be?”
She didn’t move. “It’s been a while since I had a man pressing me up against a wall. I’m cool like this if you are. Feel free to move around a bit, too, if you’d like. Could be fun—for old times’ sake.”
Instead of the laugh she expected out of him, he sighed. Man, the Marines had stolen his sense of humor. A couple of tours probably did that to a guy. “I’m serious. Will you remain where you are?”
“Fine. I’ll be good,” she promised.
“All right.” He let go of her instantly, stepping back enough to allow her breathing room. “It’s been a while.”
“Yeah.” She closed her eyes for a second, steeling herself for the way she’d feel when they locked eyes once more. All grown up and ready to take on the world. “Too long. You should’ve called.”
Her whole body throbbed with excitement and desire now that he was back here with her—which wasn’t fair. Last time she’d seen him, before he’d made her come and run off before she’d been able to return the favor, he’d promised to write to her. She’d promised to behave. Turned out they sucked at keeping promises.
Especially him.
“I know.” He cleared his throat. “Life’s been busy.”
She turned around to face him, but splayed her hands against the wall on either side of her hips as she did a quick once-over of the man she’d once been crazy about.
Holy. Crap. He was hotter than she’d dreamed.
Like, much hotter than he’d been back when he was a scrawny eighteen-year-old leaving for war. Back when they shared their almost-night together. He’d just been starting to become the man he was today. And that man? He oozed confidence and raw, dirty sex.
Really, really dirty sexy.
She swallowed hard, her heart quickening. He had a few lines around his brows and mouth, probably from squinting in the desert sun, but his moss-green eyes spoke of things he’d seen that she would never begin to understand. Without a doubt, he’d gotten hotter.
More dangerous.
She ran her gaze down his body, taking all of him in. His biceps were huge and rock-hard, and she’d bet he sported a six-pack under that shirt of his, too. “You were busy for eight years?”
The witty back-and-forth conversation--especially from Tara--was one of my favorite parts of the book. It had me laughing out loud more than once while reading. The sex scenes were hot, and the glimpses into their backstories,both shared and separate, were heartbreaking. All good things.
The technical stuff--Tara having to reveal how she got past Jake's system--was a weaker part of the plot. She just didn't seem at all convincing as she tried to put Jake and Cooper (his boss) off, pretending she didn't remember how she'd gotten in. (Seriously, the girl remembered conversations that were a decade old word for word, but didn't remember how she got into her last job?) The method that the two men used to get the information out of her was amazingly transparent--again, a woman with her smarts should have been able to see through it in a second. Fortunately, the story's strengths--Tara and Jake renewing their relationship in all its snarky, steamy glory--more than make up for what the other parts of the plot lack.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2019
I enjoyed Tara and Jakes story. They had a background into their teens and a clear desire and attraction from the get go. I feel like Jake was a bit dramatic on his “needs” and really wasn’t as dangerous as he made it out to be. But i love that he was broken and Tara was doing whatever she could to fix him. Who doesn’t love a broken hero. I did feel bad when Cooper and Jake tricked Tara. I saw it coming well ahead of time but still it stung for her. All in all this was a nice quick read with all the bells and whistles. I love the characters banter and sense of humor. It it always nice to have humor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2017
3 Stars... sigh.
I don't have much to say on this. The premise and the storyline's overall blurb was incredibly intriguing, but the execution? Well... it was disappointing.
The characters, the plot's pace... sad, really.
I don't have much to say on this. The premise and the storyline's overall blurb was incredibly intriguing, but the execution? Well... it was disappointing.
The characters, the plot's pace... sad, really.
November 9, 2021
She seems self destructive to me. I couldn’t relate to her reactions.
February 10, 2024
Read on Radish.
January 22, 2020
Read these awhile ago. Comments and review to follow.
You can find me over on Facebook at My Open Book at the Dragonfly. Come over and say hi.
You can find me over on Facebook at My Open Book at the Dragonfly. Come over and say hi.
August 22, 2014
4**** Dirty mouthed, brooding ex-military alpha who knows how to be in command on the job and in the bedroom!
What happens when a domineering, straight-laced, dirty mouthed sex on a stick ex-military hero has to team up with a care-free, head-strong, intellectually matched, sarcastically sassy and gorgeous woman? The product sucks you in, steams up your kindle and has you converting to being cheerleader for Team Jara (Jake + Tara).
Two characters with a past history, one involving a cherished friendship that had all the potential to be more, yet life split these two apart. Now 8years later, Jake Forsythe must confront the one woman he left behind, a woman he never believed he deserved, a woman he fought to keep out of his heart. However, while Jake discovers Tara is still the same beautiful, risk-taking rebel with a feisty mouth, Tara finds the Jake she used to know is a completely different man than the boy she once adored. Time spent in the Marines left Jake with more than physical scars.
Tara lives a life set on retrieving stolen items and returning them to their rightful owners. Does she follows the rules in order to obtain these objects…..ehhh not really. Is she a thief? On paper, but in retrospect her morals are just. Nonetheless, getting caught could land her in jail, and unfortunately for her, she is pushed into a corner with only one option of getting out without paying the consequences. Jake, now working for a private security company is left with no choice gain her cooperation or turn her for her crime.
Is it blackmail….absolutely.
Will Tara give Jake a run for his money….hell YES!!
The chemistry between these is electrifyingly spark-crackling steamy! The banter is keeps you hooked…..I can guarantee you while Tara will have you laughing out loud
”Don’t smile. You might appear to be human,” she said
”Maybe that stick up your ass isn’t stuck as far in as I thought. The Jake I used to know might still be alive and kicking beneath that serious facade.”
Jake will have you fanning yourself, not only does this man drip with sex appeal, his mouth will have you squirming in your seat
” ‘Tara,’ he said, his voice hard and shattered all at once. Leaning in, he whispered, ‘You keep this up, and you’ll be on your back behind the Ferris wheel, and I’ll be so deep inside of you you’ll forget what it feels like not have me there. Tread lightly.’”
Or better yet he will have you jumping out your seat raising your hand to be his pupil
”Go to bed now before I decide to teach you a lesson.”
There was plenty of angst between the two characters, however I would of liked more suspense from bad guy angle. While the duration of the story does occur over a very short period of time, Diane Alberts does a great job recognizing that and you don’t get a insta-love feel. Rather we are given the right amount of back drop to Jake + Tara’s history. Jake’s character growth over the course of the book was perfect. Tara does not progress much but I didn’t think she needed too, her character was balanced out and really helped bring out the growth in Jake.
The switch in P.O.V allows the reader to get in both character’s head and Mrs. Alberts does an exceptional job depicting the male voice. She also does not disappoint in the sex department holy blast your air condition, yet she doesn’t go over board with the sex; combination of steam, humor and intrigue. This book is definitely a page turner, one that you can and will easily want too finish in one seating.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
October 10, 2016
Stealing His Heart was a fun and really sexy story. I adored Tara right away. It’s not very often that you get a Robin Hoodesque thief as your heroine. She was spunky and passionate and loyal to her cause, almost to her detriment. And I loved that she and Jake had history together. Jake made me a bit mad at times and I get that he had to do what he had to do for his boss and his client and ultimately to save Tara from herself, but sometimes I wanted to punch him. The tension between Tara and Jake was thick and definitely something that needed to explode.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more in the series. I love the Schillings Agency and the fact that all of the men working there are former military with crazy, sad back stories who definitely need to find love.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more in the series. I love the Schillings Agency and the fact that all of the men working there are former military with crazy, sad back stories who definitely need to find love.
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Diane Alberts (Jen McLaughlin) is always able to deliver a good sexy read, and I love her stories and writing style. I was super excited when I found out that Stealing His Heart featured Jake Forsythe after reading his sister Christine's story in Falling For the Groomsman which was her contribution to the Wedding Dare series. This book was a lot of fun to read, and I really liked this second chance romance between Tara and Jake. This book is the second book in the Shilling Agency series, but is a standalone story that can be read without reading the first book.
Tara Harris steals for a living, but she only targets those that stole the items she is to retrieve. When she gets caught breaking into a home, the last person that she expects to see is Jake Forsythe. Jake and Tara had known each other forever and then one night things got hot between them, but he left her before finishing what he started. He went overseas in the military and Tara hadn't seen him since. Now he is back to figure out how Tara was able to break in and steal a vase from a system he designed. Jake will stop at nothing to figure out what he needs to know, even if that means sending Tara to jail. But Tara isn't willing to give him the information to help his sleazy client, even though she still has feelings for him. As things heat up between them, their feelings for one another are brought back and before long they are both feeling more for each other than is good for them. Can they both find a way to make it through everything to have a relationship together, or will there be too many things standing in their way for them to have a shot?
I liked Jake a lot. He was smart and sexy, and really protective of Tara. He wanted to find out what he needed to, but he also didn't want to ever hurt Tara or allow someone else to. I loved how he was able to loosen up with Tara after everything that he had been through, and she really brought him back to life. Their banter and tricking each other was so much fun to read about. I really liked how Jake remembered everything about Tara though, and it really showed how much he had always cared about her. Tara was strong and independent, and I loved the idea of a thief with a conscience. She was an awesome heroine to read about and I thought that she was so smart. I could really feel the chemistry between her and Jake and loved their history together. It was great to watch them fall for one another all over again while trying to keep each other at arms length.
While I really liked Jake and Tara, I did also feel like there were a few things that could have been better in my opinion. I felt like some of the dialogue got repetitive at times, and I would find myself going back to see if I had just read the same thing a paragraph or two previous. I also felt like the urgency of her telling them the code wasn't as dire as they made it out to be considering all the steamy times and the trip to the carnival, but otherwise I thought that this was a good story. This book was fun and sexy, and I really enjoyed the dirty talk and Jake's dominant ways. These two were really hot together and I loved that they couldn't keep their hands off each other. If you are looking for a fun and sexy story with a good amount of steam and sweetness I definitely recommend this book or anything by Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin. I can't wait for her next book, and she is one of those authors that I know will always deliver a story that I am going to really like!
**ARC Provided by Entangled Publishing**
Diane Alberts (Jen McLaughlin) is always able to deliver a good sexy read, and I love her stories and writing style. I was super excited when I found out that Stealing His Heart featured Jake Forsythe after reading his sister Christine's story in Falling For the Groomsman which was her contribution to the Wedding Dare series. This book was a lot of fun to read, and I really liked this second chance romance between Tara and Jake. This book is the second book in the Shilling Agency series, but is a standalone story that can be read without reading the first book.
Tara Harris steals for a living, but she only targets those that stole the items she is to retrieve. When she gets caught breaking into a home, the last person that she expects to see is Jake Forsythe. Jake and Tara had known each other forever and then one night things got hot between them, but he left her before finishing what he started. He went overseas in the military and Tara hadn't seen him since. Now he is back to figure out how Tara was able to break in and steal a vase from a system he designed. Jake will stop at nothing to figure out what he needs to know, even if that means sending Tara to jail. But Tara isn't willing to give him the information to help his sleazy client, even though she still has feelings for him. As things heat up between them, their feelings for one another are brought back and before long they are both feeling more for each other than is good for them. Can they both find a way to make it through everything to have a relationship together, or will there be too many things standing in their way for them to have a shot?
I liked Jake a lot. He was smart and sexy, and really protective of Tara. He wanted to find out what he needed to, but he also didn't want to ever hurt Tara or allow someone else to. I loved how he was able to loosen up with Tara after everything that he had been through, and she really brought him back to life. Their banter and tricking each other was so much fun to read about. I really liked how Jake remembered everything about Tara though, and it really showed how much he had always cared about her. Tara was strong and independent, and I loved the idea of a thief with a conscience. She was an awesome heroine to read about and I thought that she was so smart. I could really feel the chemistry between her and Jake and loved their history together. It was great to watch them fall for one another all over again while trying to keep each other at arms length.
While I really liked Jake and Tara, I did also feel like there were a few things that could have been better in my opinion. I felt like some of the dialogue got repetitive at times, and I would find myself going back to see if I had just read the same thing a paragraph or two previous. I also felt like the urgency of her telling them the code wasn't as dire as they made it out to be considering all the steamy times and the trip to the carnival, but otherwise I thought that this was a good story. This book was fun and sexy, and I really enjoyed the dirty talk and Jake's dominant ways. These two were really hot together and I loved that they couldn't keep their hands off each other. If you are looking for a fun and sexy story with a good amount of steam and sweetness I definitely recommend this book or anything by Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin. I can't wait for her next book, and she is one of those authors that I know will always deliver a story that I am going to really like!
**ARC Provided by Entangled Publishing**
September 13, 2014
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Stealing His Heart (Shillings Agency #2) by Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin
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The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 3 stars
Review:
I am happy to tell you all that Diane Alberts is back with her Shillings Agency and it's oozing hotness. This time is all about second chances, and Tara and Jake have their own love story to tell full of hot and sexy moments.
Jake Forsythe works for the Shillings Agency and recently someone has break into one of their safeties. That's when Tara and Jake's paths cross once again. This time Jake has changed after coming for war. According to Tara he has lost his spark and his smile, all the time being the serious, responsible guy that never loses control. They both have changed so much that Jake blackmails Tara to help him solve how she broke into the Shillings Agency system. That or end up in jail.
This means that they have to spent a few days together, trying to work together and "help Tara remember" how she did it. But there's an unfinished story between them that with the years has grown to so much that the former ex-thief is willing to lose control.
I have to admit that the beginning of the story, to me, felt a little bit rushed. It starts with Tara breaking into a house and Jake catching her. And sparks fly right away. But since they shared a painful story, I might have wanted some restrain at least from Tara. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the story, specially that Tara and Jake shared a story that could lead to a potentially second chance when they cross paths again. And the fact that they both have changed, but Jake even more, leading them to be almost opposites, is what charges the story with vitality and creates some funny moments worth reading.
For fans of Diane Alberts there's no need how the heat rises whenever she writes a romance story, but Tara and Jake's chemistry leads to some sexy and hot scenes that all readers should be able to read. I liked how the author used the chemistry and the story of the two main characters and lead them to what potentially could have been all those years ago.
With an appropriate ending, although a little bit painful, Diane Alberts has simply done it again and I highly recommend this new Shillings Agency to all romance readers out there.
Stealing His Heart (Shillings Agency #2) by Diane Alberts/Jen McLaughlin
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Review:
I am happy to tell you all that Diane Alberts is back with her Shillings Agency and it's oozing hotness. This time is all about second chances, and Tara and Jake have their own love story to tell full of hot and sexy moments.
Jake Forsythe works for the Shillings Agency and recently someone has break into one of their safeties. That's when Tara and Jake's paths cross once again. This time Jake has changed after coming for war. According to Tara he has lost his spark and his smile, all the time being the serious, responsible guy that never loses control. They both have changed so much that Jake blackmails Tara to help him solve how she broke into the Shillings Agency system. That or end up in jail.
This means that they have to spent a few days together, trying to work together and "help Tara remember" how she did it. But there's an unfinished story between them that with the years has grown to so much that the former ex-thief is willing to lose control.
I have to admit that the beginning of the story, to me, felt a little bit rushed. It starts with Tara breaking into a house and Jake catching her. And sparks fly right away. But since they shared a painful story, I might have wanted some restrain at least from Tara. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the story, specially that Tara and Jake shared a story that could lead to a potentially second chance when they cross paths again. And the fact that they both have changed, but Jake even more, leading them to be almost opposites, is what charges the story with vitality and creates some funny moments worth reading.
For fans of Diane Alberts there's no need how the heat rises whenever she writes a romance story, but Tara and Jake's chemistry leads to some sexy and hot scenes that all readers should be able to read. I liked how the author used the chemistry and the story of the two main characters and lead them to what potentially could have been all those years ago.
With an appropriate ending, although a little bit painful, Diane Alberts has simply done it again and I highly recommend this new Shillings Agency to all romance readers out there.
August 27, 2014
Tara is the modern day catburglar equivalent of Robin Hood--she "recovers" stolen possessions, returning them to their rightful owners, for a fee. Her latest mission, however, goes astray when she's apprehended at the scene by a private security agent--Jake Forsythe. Tara and Jake have history--they were childhood sweethearts/theft partners--at least until Jake left her unfulfilled on his last night before reporting to basic training. Since then, Tara's been on her own, and doing quite well.
Jake is a shell of a man. Wounded in battle, and scorned by his fiance, he's sure no woman will ever feel for him again--so he won't allow anyone close. Especially not Tara. She had gotten in before, and he's never quite forgotten her, but he won't let his attraction get in the way of his job. He has to figure out how she was able to get past his security protocol to steal a precious vase, and if she doesn't? Prison.
Thing is, neither Jake nor Tara can deal with this reunion. Tara hasn't had a steady lover in all the years Jake's been gone, and Jake hasn't been with a woman in more than a year. The passion they ignite is both fiery and familiar, with Tara's shenanigans thawing the ice in Jake's heart until all he can imagine is the life he could have had, should have had, if only he wasn't battle worn and scarred.
But, Tara is strong, stalwart and crafty. She knows Jake will turn her in if she doesn't comply--and yet she doesn't hold back on her affection. She won't give up her secrets, but she's not going away without getting what she also wants: to see Jake laugh with abandon before she's rotting in a jail cell.
I really loved Tara. She was funny, and fearless. Her heart was so open and she held her convictions so tight--there was no way she was sharing any secrets that would benefit a gangster, even if he was Jake's client. Jake, too, was stubborn, unwilling to send Tara to jail, but caught in the need to do his job--even after recognizing his client was a bad dude.
I had a hard time warming to Jake. At points he was really intriguing, but his control freak nature was...too much, perhaps. I found him much more interesting once Tara started breaking through his walls. Partly, at fault was Tara's innate stubbornness; Jake knew that he'd never get Tara to reveal her theiving secrets and had to really push to make her give it up--even if it totally pushed her away--knowing it was the only way to save her.
I appreciated having some input from Cooper Shillings, of TEMPORARILY YOURS, in here. His sound advice helped put these two double-crossed lovers back on collision course. Some nice smexytimes, and a solid, if darker, romance in the series.
Jake is a shell of a man. Wounded in battle, and scorned by his fiance, he's sure no woman will ever feel for him again--so he won't allow anyone close. Especially not Tara. She had gotten in before, and he's never quite forgotten her, but he won't let his attraction get in the way of his job. He has to figure out how she was able to get past his security protocol to steal a precious vase, and if she doesn't? Prison.
Thing is, neither Jake nor Tara can deal with this reunion. Tara hasn't had a steady lover in all the years Jake's been gone, and Jake hasn't been with a woman in more than a year. The passion they ignite is both fiery and familiar, with Tara's shenanigans thawing the ice in Jake's heart until all he can imagine is the life he could have had, should have had, if only he wasn't battle worn and scarred.
But, Tara is strong, stalwart and crafty. She knows Jake will turn her in if she doesn't comply--and yet she doesn't hold back on her affection. She won't give up her secrets, but she's not going away without getting what she also wants: to see Jake laugh with abandon before she's rotting in a jail cell.
I really loved Tara. She was funny, and fearless. Her heart was so open and she held her convictions so tight--there was no way she was sharing any secrets that would benefit a gangster, even if he was Jake's client. Jake, too, was stubborn, unwilling to send Tara to jail, but caught in the need to do his job--even after recognizing his client was a bad dude.
I had a hard time warming to Jake. At points he was really intriguing, but his control freak nature was...too much, perhaps. I found him much more interesting once Tara started breaking through his walls. Partly, at fault was Tara's innate stubbornness; Jake knew that he'd never get Tara to reveal her theiving secrets and had to really push to make her give it up--even if it totally pushed her away--knowing it was the only way to save her.
I appreciated having some input from Cooper Shillings, of TEMPORARILY YOURS, in here. His sound advice helped put these two double-crossed lovers back on collision course. Some nice smexytimes, and a solid, if darker, romance in the series.
September 2, 2014
Jake Forsythe and Tara Harris were childhood friends and a bit more when they were younger. However, they went their separate ways one day and haven't crossed paths ever since.
Tara has never forgotten Jake--the moments they shared, the easy camaraderie between them or how he set her body on fire. But when they meet again, Jake is not the same easy going guy she once knew. In front of her is an unapproachable man who has shut down emotionally and only goes through the motions of life.
Jake has had a rough life. He went to war and returned injured only to have his heart broken soon after arriving. Although he has never forgotten Tara, now that he she's back in his life he is determined to keep her at bay.
Now, if only it were that easy for these two to move on from the bond they share and the passion that's always under the surface whenever they're together.
I love Diane Alberts' writing so of course I jumped at the chance to get my hands on this story. But I admit that although I've always enjoyed her stories from start to finish, this one was very hard to get through in the beginning.
I lay the blame on Jake. Yes, he was sexy hot and all alpha-male but to me he came across as arrogant and way too hard on Tara. Thankfully, as the story progressed I understood better what made him tick and came to overlook what I had come to think of as major faults. In truth he was just a man who had been hurt before and thought himself unworthy of Tara.
Tara I liked from the very beginning. She was head-strong, independent and gave as good as she got every step of the way. She was also loyal and caring. A combination that helped to draw out Jake from his self-imposed shell.
Needless to say that their chemistry was smokin' HOT! That first kiss alone was worth all the anticipation I experienced. As per her usual, Diane Alberts didn't hesitate to bring the sex scenes to the next level while still making them essential to the growth of Jake and Tara's connection. They each helped to deepen that initial connection Jake and Tara shared when they were younger. And when emotions came into play it just made it that much more enjoyable.
Keep in mind that although this is the second book in the Shillings Agency it can be read as a stand alone. Personally, I haven't read the first book in the series and I don't feel as if I missed out on anything (well, except on another hot little read!).
All in all, an intense second chance story with intriguing characters, chemistry abound and a few emotions thrown into the mix to make it a fantastic read overall.
*I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Tara has never forgotten Jake--the moments they shared, the easy camaraderie between them or how he set her body on fire. But when they meet again, Jake is not the same easy going guy she once knew. In front of her is an unapproachable man who has shut down emotionally and only goes through the motions of life.
Jake has had a rough life. He went to war and returned injured only to have his heart broken soon after arriving. Although he has never forgotten Tara, now that he she's back in his life he is determined to keep her at bay.
Now, if only it were that easy for these two to move on from the bond they share and the passion that's always under the surface whenever they're together.
I love Diane Alberts' writing so of course I jumped at the chance to get my hands on this story. But I admit that although I've always enjoyed her stories from start to finish, this one was very hard to get through in the beginning.
I lay the blame on Jake. Yes, he was sexy hot and all alpha-male but to me he came across as arrogant and way too hard on Tara. Thankfully, as the story progressed I understood better what made him tick and came to overlook what I had come to think of as major faults. In truth he was just a man who had been hurt before and thought himself unworthy of Tara.
Tara I liked from the very beginning. She was head-strong, independent and gave as good as she got every step of the way. She was also loyal and caring. A combination that helped to draw out Jake from his self-imposed shell.
Needless to say that their chemistry was smokin' HOT! That first kiss alone was worth all the anticipation I experienced. As per her usual, Diane Alberts didn't hesitate to bring the sex scenes to the next level while still making them essential to the growth of Jake and Tara's connection. They each helped to deepen that initial connection Jake and Tara shared when they were younger. And when emotions came into play it just made it that much more enjoyable.
Keep in mind that although this is the second book in the Shillings Agency it can be read as a stand alone. Personally, I haven't read the first book in the series and I don't feel as if I missed out on anything (well, except on another hot little read!).
All in all, an intense second chance story with intriguing characters, chemistry abound and a few emotions thrown into the mix to make it a fantastic read overall.
*I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
January 26, 2016
2 'DISAPPOINTED' Stars!
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That's what sums up how I felt about this book. I gave this book a chance because some people I know liked it. I started it and liked it. Then about 25% in...
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Annoyance was the emotion when I'm seeing this push-pull. push, pull over and over and over again. I can't decide if they're getting together or just what? I was pretty much all over the place to be honest.
The dirty talk was amazing. Diane Alberts certainly knew how to get the smut down which was somewhat of a redeeming point and just at points where I thought that the book was going to be worth my time...
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BAM!It goes horribly wrong.
For one, I couldn't connect with Jake or fall in love with him despite how he knew how to use his body. He was an enigma to me till the very end of this story and frankly annoying when he's giving continuous mixed signals. He's damaged. I got that. He cared for Tara. I got that. He didn't want her to go jail. Got that too. But where were his-let's call them "confused"-feelings?? When he's trying to come to terms with loving her. A supposed "damaged man" coming to love Tara.
After betraying her so bad.
Then Tara. She was an overall okay character. I didn't like her excessive insisting behaviour. She, herself was not someone I got to connect with at all. She's all over "let's live happy!" one second and...something the other?? One second she's hurt, the other playful.
I couldn't pin her down to anyone or anything.
She had no layers. Nothing worth noting and admiring in my view.
Most of all it was how easily she forgave him in the end? I mean, I get that you love him girl, I'm all for HEA 'cause they're my thing. However, she forgave him so easily because even though what he did was for her good, it was still betrayal. And it was still wrong. And no freaking kitten was doing shit for me.
At least the author tried to develop their characters (albeit ones I did not enjoy) so I guess my stars go to that too.
Diane Alberts writing style was good but unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this novel because I was a mess of emotions and began skimming too.
I'd really like my precious time back.
Thank you.
That's what sums up how I felt about this book. I gave this book a chance because some people I know liked it. I started it and liked it. Then about 25% in...
[image error]
Annoyance was the emotion when I'm seeing this push-pull. push, pull over and over and over again. I can't decide if they're getting together or just what? I was pretty much all over the place to be honest.
The dirty talk was amazing. Diane Alberts certainly knew how to get the smut down which was somewhat of a redeeming point and just at points where I thought that the book was going to be worth my time...
[image error]
BAM!It goes horribly wrong.
For one, I couldn't connect with Jake or fall in love with him despite how he knew how to use his body. He was an enigma to me till the very end of this story and frankly annoying when he's giving continuous mixed signals. He's damaged. I got that. He cared for Tara. I got that. He didn't want her to go jail. Got that too. But where were his-let's call them "confused"-feelings?? When he's trying to come to terms with loving her. A supposed "damaged man" coming to love Tara.
After betraying her so bad.
Then Tara. She was an overall okay character. I didn't like her excessive insisting behaviour. She, herself was not someone I got to connect with at all. She's all over "let's live happy!" one second and...something the other?? One second she's hurt, the other playful.
I couldn't pin her down to anyone or anything.
She had no layers. Nothing worth noting and admiring in my view.
Most of all it was how easily she forgave him in the end? I mean, I get that you love him girl, I'm all for HEA 'cause they're my thing. However, she forgave him so easily because even though what he did was for her good, it was still betrayal. And it was still wrong. And no freaking kitten was doing shit for me.
At least the author tried to develop their characters (albeit ones I did not enjoy) so I guess my stars go to that too.
Diane Alberts writing style was good but unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this novel because I was a mess of emotions and began skimming too.
I'd really like my precious time back.
Thank you.
August 25, 2014
This is the Second in The Shillings Agency Series but can be read as a Stand Alone
Tara’s business isn’t the type of business most people have or would think of. She lives and breathes her job and loves getting back items stolen from good people. Tara has done this for years as she had two of the most important people stolen from her at a young age. As a teenager she work on her skills that are prudent to her business today with Jake whom she dated until he left to enlist in the Marines.
Jake lost his parents when he was seventeen years old and spent one year of hell in the foster care system. Tara and his older sister were the two reasons he kept going until he and Tara got caught. To get his life back on track he enlisted in the Marines and left Tara behind. Now he is back home after an injury from an IUD but has stayed away as what happened to him in Afghanistan has left an ever-lasting impression on him.
Jake shows up in Tara life unexpectedly and she is happy to see him until she finds out the only way out of the mess she is in is by helping him who works for one of the people Tara considers a bad guy. To top it all off things have heated back up for these two. Now Tara is left to decide whether to help Jake and go against everything she believes or do what she feels is right and possibly lost him forever.
I was gifted this novel for an honest review and I hadn’t read any books by Jen McLaughlin until I read this one. The story between Jake and Tara is a rocky one with challenges and life getting in the way like the rest of us has to deal with. I love how Tara holds on to her morels and values so deeply that she doesn’t see what she is doing is wrong even though she is righting a wrong done to an innocence person. She is a strong prideful woman who doesn’t need a man to help or define her. Jake is what I expected of an injured Marine who has been forced home. He’s an alpha male who seems to let his pride get in the way of what he truly wants, Tara. He can’t see the good guy he is but only that he will never be good enough for the one woman he’s ever loved. I liked that Jen didn’t just have Tara fall at Jake’s feet but rather make him work for the things he wants. This was a great book and I highly recommend you get this book and read Jake and Tara’s story. I will definitely be going back and reading the first book in this series, Temporarily Yours.
Friends Till The End Book Blog: http://friendstilltheendbookblog.blog...
Tara’s business isn’t the type of business most people have or would think of. She lives and breathes her job and loves getting back items stolen from good people. Tara has done this for years as she had two of the most important people stolen from her at a young age. As a teenager she work on her skills that are prudent to her business today with Jake whom she dated until he left to enlist in the Marines.
Jake lost his parents when he was seventeen years old and spent one year of hell in the foster care system. Tara and his older sister were the two reasons he kept going until he and Tara got caught. To get his life back on track he enlisted in the Marines and left Tara behind. Now he is back home after an injury from an IUD but has stayed away as what happened to him in Afghanistan has left an ever-lasting impression on him.
Jake shows up in Tara life unexpectedly and she is happy to see him until she finds out the only way out of the mess she is in is by helping him who works for one of the people Tara considers a bad guy. To top it all off things have heated back up for these two. Now Tara is left to decide whether to help Jake and go against everything she believes or do what she feels is right and possibly lost him forever.
I was gifted this novel for an honest review and I hadn’t read any books by Jen McLaughlin until I read this one. The story between Jake and Tara is a rocky one with challenges and life getting in the way like the rest of us has to deal with. I love how Tara holds on to her morels and values so deeply that she doesn’t see what she is doing is wrong even though she is righting a wrong done to an innocence person. She is a strong prideful woman who doesn’t need a man to help or define her. Jake is what I expected of an injured Marine who has been forced home. He’s an alpha male who seems to let his pride get in the way of what he truly wants, Tara. He can’t see the good guy he is but only that he will never be good enough for the one woman he’s ever loved. I liked that Jen didn’t just have Tara fall at Jake’s feet but rather make him work for the things he wants. This was a great book and I highly recommend you get this book and read Jake and Tara’s story. I will definitely be going back and reading the first book in this series, Temporarily Yours.
Friends Till The End Book Blog: http://friendstilltheendbookblog.blog...
February 13, 2015
Review from: http://mischievousreads.blogspot.com/
***ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
I've been waiting for this sequel after I've read the first installment of the Shillings Agency series. And I have to say, I definitely was NOT disappointed at all. Because this book is HOT HOT. (Damn right, double hot. BAM!)
Jake Forsythe is a Shillings employee, working as private security, and is forced to lure in a thief who was able to infiltrate a safe of one of the company's clients. But the thing is, this thief is in the glorious form of Tara Harris a.k.a childhood friend. a.k.a. ex-partner in crime. and a.k.a. ex-almost lover. All he needs from her is the fix to the code she'd been able to crack when opening the safe and that's that.
"Get the code. Get rid of the girl. Simple"
But Tara Harris, she knows she's no thief. Like a modern day Robin Hood, she steals from the rich and corrupt and returns them to their rightful owners... she'd prefer the term, 'Recovery Specialist'. After being lured in by Jake pretending to be an American CEO in need of a precious painting that had been stolen from him, she needs to tell him the fix to the code or else, she'll be thrown in jail.
"I don't have a choice, unlike you. You will do exactly what I tell you to do, or go to jail for your crimes. Your choice."
I'm not gonna lie, Jake is absolutely one of the sexiest characters I've ever read, and hot damn, praise to the author for creating such a sexy, dirty mouthed, dominating male character ever. He's just every woman's guilty pleasure. But goddamn, do I want to hate him on the very first half of the book for being such an ass to Tara. Not to mention, he's terribly broody and is all Mr. You-Deserve-Better in almost every part when he starts to open up.
Tara is just definitely adorable and badass at the same time, giving Jake a hard time in forcing her to share the fix to the code. She's heartbroken for what he'd done before, leaving after he almost took her virginity and ignoring her for the past eight years, but she's determined to get the old Jake back even when he seems to have changed after his stay in the military.
These two, they just make everything so hot especially with Jake's mini-BDSM fetish, or should I say, controlling issues. He's both dominant in and out of bed, always requiring obedience and "saying please".
This book is just pure sexiness from beginning to end, and not to mention, there's another sexy character coming up: Gordon. I'm excited for his book, yup.
***ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
I've been waiting for this sequel after I've read the first installment of the Shillings Agency series. And I have to say, I definitely was NOT disappointed at all. Because this book is HOT HOT. (Damn right, double hot. BAM!)
Jake Forsythe is a Shillings employee, working as private security, and is forced to lure in a thief who was able to infiltrate a safe of one of the company's clients. But the thing is, this thief is in the glorious form of Tara Harris a.k.a childhood friend. a.k.a. ex-partner in crime. and a.k.a. ex-almost lover. All he needs from her is the fix to the code she'd been able to crack when opening the safe and that's that.
"Get the code. Get rid of the girl. Simple"
But Tara Harris, she knows she's no thief. Like a modern day Robin Hood, she steals from the rich and corrupt and returns them to their rightful owners... she'd prefer the term, 'Recovery Specialist'. After being lured in by Jake pretending to be an American CEO in need of a precious painting that had been stolen from him, she needs to tell him the fix to the code or else, she'll be thrown in jail.
"I don't have a choice, unlike you. You will do exactly what I tell you to do, or go to jail for your crimes. Your choice."
I'm not gonna lie, Jake is absolutely one of the sexiest characters I've ever read, and hot damn, praise to the author for creating such a sexy, dirty mouthed, dominating male character ever. He's just every woman's guilty pleasure. But goddamn, do I want to hate him on the very first half of the book for being such an ass to Tara. Not to mention, he's terribly broody and is all Mr. You-Deserve-Better in almost every part when he starts to open up.
Tara is just definitely adorable and badass at the same time, giving Jake a hard time in forcing her to share the fix to the code. She's heartbroken for what he'd done before, leaving after he almost took her virginity and ignoring her for the past eight years, but she's determined to get the old Jake back even when he seems to have changed after his stay in the military.
These two, they just make everything so hot especially with Jake's mini-BDSM fetish, or should I say, controlling issues. He's both dominant in and out of bed, always requiring obedience and "saying please".
This book is just pure sexiness from beginning to end, and not to mention, there's another sexy character coming up: Gordon. I'm excited for his book, yup.
August 25, 2014
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
by Kim
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Jake Forsythe is former military turned personal security expert for Shillings Agency. When a safe he was assigned to protect is broken into, he is tasked with finding the person responsible and figuring out where he went wrong. Tara Harris has made it her life's mission to make people pay. She’s like a modern day Robin Hood, stealing from the rich, powerful, corrupt; righting their wrongs when the law doesn’t see fit. Tara is also the person who broke into the safe of a mob member to steal a vase he previously stole himself. The safe of a client of Shillings Agency.
Jake and Tara have a long history. One that I didn’t find fully told. I seriously had a hard time getting into this book. At 29% in, I didn't have a problem with Jake. I didn't love him nor hate him, he was just there. And I was totally NOT feeling Tara. Once Jake catches her, she’s told that she has to help figure out where he went wrong with his code or she’s going to go to jail for her crime. But everything is a joke to her and she doesn’t take anything seriously.
I’m a fan of Diane Alberts and I was really looking forward to reading this book. So when I would have stopped with other authors, I kept reading, hoping it would be worth wild. I’m glad I kept reading. Once I understood Tara’s background, she made sense. However, Jake’s background was still a little spacey and I have no idea how they even became friends in the first place.
Due to his time spent in Afghanistan, Jake sustained an injury that cost him his fiancée. With everything in his life being out of his control, he has to control things in the bedroom. Tara is a woman who doesn’t take orders from anyone, especially the man who left her unfulfilled years previously. The push and pull between these two is tiring at times. Both are strong minded and don’t like to give in. But when they get together, things are very hot.
Did Stealing His Heart live up to my expectations and the standard set by the previous book, Temporarily Yours? I don’t think so. You do however get two characters who will grow on you. You also get a love story and the ever important, “I screwed up, I’m fixing things” scene. But there was still a little something missing. Did the book deter me from wanting to read the next book in the series? Heck no. I’m really looking forward to seeing what’s in store for Gordon and “the princess”.
Source: Publisher
by Kim
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Jake Forsythe is former military turned personal security expert for Shillings Agency. When a safe he was assigned to protect is broken into, he is tasked with finding the person responsible and figuring out where he went wrong. Tara Harris has made it her life's mission to make people pay. She’s like a modern day Robin Hood, stealing from the rich, powerful, corrupt; righting their wrongs when the law doesn’t see fit. Tara is also the person who broke into the safe of a mob member to steal a vase he previously stole himself. The safe of a client of Shillings Agency.
Jake and Tara have a long history. One that I didn’t find fully told. I seriously had a hard time getting into this book. At 29% in, I didn't have a problem with Jake. I didn't love him nor hate him, he was just there. And I was totally NOT feeling Tara. Once Jake catches her, she’s told that she has to help figure out where he went wrong with his code or she’s going to go to jail for her crime. But everything is a joke to her and she doesn’t take anything seriously.
I’m a fan of Diane Alberts and I was really looking forward to reading this book. So when I would have stopped with other authors, I kept reading, hoping it would be worth wild. I’m glad I kept reading. Once I understood Tara’s background, she made sense. However, Jake’s background was still a little spacey and I have no idea how they even became friends in the first place.
Due to his time spent in Afghanistan, Jake sustained an injury that cost him his fiancée. With everything in his life being out of his control, he has to control things in the bedroom. Tara is a woman who doesn’t take orders from anyone, especially the man who left her unfulfilled years previously. The push and pull between these two is tiring at times. Both are strong minded and don’t like to give in. But when they get together, things are very hot.
Did Stealing His Heart live up to my expectations and the standard set by the previous book, Temporarily Yours? I don’t think so. You do however get two characters who will grow on you. You also get a love story and the ever important, “I screwed up, I’m fixing things” scene. But there was still a little something missing. Did the book deter me from wanting to read the next book in the series? Heck no. I’m really looking forward to seeing what’s in store for Gordon and “the princess”.
Source: Publisher
September 2, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Tara is a “recovery specialist”, or better known to most people as a hired thief. She is hired by people to steal back items that have been stolen from them. She’s sort of a Robin Hood, but instead of stealing money, she steals property. So when she’s working a job one night, breaking into a house, she is apprehended by a private security officer. But he’s not just any private security officer; he’s Jake Forsythe, Tara’s former partner in crime and almost love interest.
Tara and Jake grew up together, Jake not exactly coming from the best of circumstances. Tara and Jake used to steal together and they came close to becoming an item, but when Jake left at eighteen to join the military, Tara never saw him again. When Jake returns to Tara’s life however, it is readily apparent that they are still very much attracted to each other. Jake though, having been through war and back, is not sure he can commit to Tara, thinking that she deserves far better than him.
Jake works for the Schillings Agency, which is a private security firm that is comprised of several ex-military. The owner, Cooper, was the main character in the first book and makes an appearance in this book. The Schillings Agency, in addition to offering muscle, also installs security systems, and it is the security system that Tara had managed to breach in a subsequent job that Jake needs her help with. In order to patch the flaw that allowed Tara to gain entry to her mark’s home, she needs to provide Jake with the code and the patch. She is looking at jail time if she doesn’t comply, but her principles, which have her stealing from the bad guy to help the good guy, keep her from wanting to help. Will she make the right choice to keep herself out of jail? Will that decision decide the fate of her and Nick’s relationship?
Stealing His Heart was a quick, easy read. While it is the second in the Schillings Agency series, it can be read as a standalone. The characters were well developed and I loved the history that Jake and Tara shared. Ms. Alberts did an excellent job of interspersing just enough of their past with their current situation to create a steamy story of second chance love. The storyline, while slightly brief, was well written. This was an easy four star read for me.
Tara is a “recovery specialist”, or better known to most people as a hired thief. She is hired by people to steal back items that have been stolen from them. She’s sort of a Robin Hood, but instead of stealing money, she steals property. So when she’s working a job one night, breaking into a house, she is apprehended by a private security officer. But he’s not just any private security officer; he’s Jake Forsythe, Tara’s former partner in crime and almost love interest.
Tara and Jake grew up together, Jake not exactly coming from the best of circumstances. Tara and Jake used to steal together and they came close to becoming an item, but when Jake left at eighteen to join the military, Tara never saw him again. When Jake returns to Tara’s life however, it is readily apparent that they are still very much attracted to each other. Jake though, having been through war and back, is not sure he can commit to Tara, thinking that she deserves far better than him.
Jake works for the Schillings Agency, which is a private security firm that is comprised of several ex-military. The owner, Cooper, was the main character in the first book and makes an appearance in this book. The Schillings Agency, in addition to offering muscle, also installs security systems, and it is the security system that Tara had managed to breach in a subsequent job that Jake needs her help with. In order to patch the flaw that allowed Tara to gain entry to her mark’s home, she needs to provide Jake with the code and the patch. She is looking at jail time if she doesn’t comply, but her principles, which have her stealing from the bad guy to help the good guy, keep her from wanting to help. Will she make the right choice to keep herself out of jail? Will that decision decide the fate of her and Nick’s relationship?
Stealing His Heart was a quick, easy read. While it is the second in the Schillings Agency series, it can be read as a standalone. The characters were well developed and I loved the history that Jake and Tara shared. Ms. Alberts did an excellent job of interspersing just enough of their past with their current situation to create a steamy story of second chance love. The storyline, while slightly brief, was well written. This was an easy four star read for me.
September 8, 2016
I really struggled to read this book, largely because the premise was so ridiculous I couldn't get past it. So Jake videos Tara breaking into a property, he corners her and blackmails here with this footage. Tara is so good no one has every suspected or caught her before, thus she has no priors. At best, Jake has footage of a misdemeanour. He cornered her before she stole anything so there was no felony. Misdemeanours carry a jail term of less than one year, if that. Most DAs will bargain down to practically nothing, particularly as the video evidence would probably be inadmissible. So Jake's leverage over Tara is nothing.
There is no explanation of why Jake is so beholden to this Maltese Falcon guy that apparently pays them. There's a point where he acknowledges that Maltese is dirty and Shillings no longer intend to work with them, so the whole reason he was blackmailing Tara to begin with (not wanting to lose Maltese Falcon's business) has gone away because they're voluntarily not working with him. Maltese has nothing on Tara, Jake hasn't revealed who she is.
Cooper calls the shots on whether Tara is arrested?! Errrrm he's a private contractor, he doesn't have that authority.
Jake left Tara because he didn't think he was good enough for her, had nothing to offer. But planned to marry some other woman (before she left him). So did he think so little of this woman that he felt he was worth her time, but not Tara's? Nice hero there.
None of it makes any sense and Jake is just not likeable. I am disappointed when romance authors try thrillers without doing any research. Please just stick to jealous ex's for drama if you're not going to bother coming up with something remotely feasible.
There is no explanation of why Jake is so beholden to this Maltese Falcon guy that apparently pays them. There's a point where he acknowledges that Maltese is dirty and Shillings no longer intend to work with them, so the whole reason he was blackmailing Tara to begin with (not wanting to lose Maltese Falcon's business) has gone away because they're voluntarily not working with him. Maltese has nothing on Tara, Jake hasn't revealed who she is.
Cooper calls the shots on whether Tara is arrested?! Errrrm he's a private contractor, he doesn't have that authority.
Jake left Tara because he didn't think he was good enough for her, had nothing to offer. But planned to marry some other woman (before she left him). So did he think so little of this woman that he felt he was worth her time, but not Tara's? Nice hero there.
None of it makes any sense and Jake is just not likeable. I am disappointed when romance authors try thrillers without doing any research. Please just stick to jealous ex's for drama if you're not going to bother coming up with something remotely feasible.
August 26, 2014
I don't know what's better, begging a dominant man for pleasure or a dominant man begging you for forgiveness! You get both in STEALING HIS HEART!
Once a thief, always a thief. Well, Tara Harris considers herself more like Robin Hood, stealing stolen items back from the bad guys who took them to begin with. She's got a "recovery specialist" business and everything--super legit. But of course, childhood friend, super-crush and fellow former thief Jake Forsythe would be the one to catch her in the act now, years after he disappeared from her life like she had the plague. Jake is pissed that Tara's still stealing, and Tara's pissed that Jake is now blackmailing her into helping him.
Jake was once a playful and lighthearted man, but adulthood has changed him horribly. He's cranky and bossy and stuffy, and if Tara's going to be forced to spend time with him, she'll definitely be trying to get him to loosen up! Jake is certain that Tara WILL submit to him, both in his blackmail request AND in bed. But he's only got a few days to make that happen, and Tara isn't playing nicely. Which one will lose control first?
OOOH, I absolutely loved STEALING HIS HEART, a Shilling Agency novel! The night that Jake catches Tara in the act had some incredible sexual tension and hot hot hot banter! I adored them together and thought that they made a crazy awesome couple--the thief and the security specialist. Tara is just a big kid in some ways, but all woman in others. Jake kind of drove me nutso with his constant NEED for Tara to beg. I mean, really, I'm all for a little D/s action, but he virtually BEGGED her to BEG him and it came off needy and sometimes asshatish (though I loved when he wound up BEGGING her toward the end!).
The two of them together completely steamed up the sheets, making this both a sexy and fun read. The writing was excellent and the back-story both believable and organic. After devouring STEALING HIS HEART, I can't wait to read any other books in the Shilling Agency series if they're anything as good as this one!
Once a thief, always a thief. Well, Tara Harris considers herself more like Robin Hood, stealing stolen items back from the bad guys who took them to begin with. She's got a "recovery specialist" business and everything--super legit. But of course, childhood friend, super-crush and fellow former thief Jake Forsythe would be the one to catch her in the act now, years after he disappeared from her life like she had the plague. Jake is pissed that Tara's still stealing, and Tara's pissed that Jake is now blackmailing her into helping him.
Jake was once a playful and lighthearted man, but adulthood has changed him horribly. He's cranky and bossy and stuffy, and if Tara's going to be forced to spend time with him, she'll definitely be trying to get him to loosen up! Jake is certain that Tara WILL submit to him, both in his blackmail request AND in bed. But he's only got a few days to make that happen, and Tara isn't playing nicely. Which one will lose control first?
OOOH, I absolutely loved STEALING HIS HEART, a Shilling Agency novel! The night that Jake catches Tara in the act had some incredible sexual tension and hot hot hot banter! I adored them together and thought that they made a crazy awesome couple--the thief and the security specialist. Tara is just a big kid in some ways, but all woman in others. Jake kind of drove me nutso with his constant NEED for Tara to beg. I mean, really, I'm all for a little D/s action, but he virtually BEGGED her to BEG him and it came off needy and sometimes asshatish (though I loved when he wound up BEGGING her toward the end!).
The two of them together completely steamed up the sheets, making this both a sexy and fun read. The writing was excellent and the back-story both believable and organic. After devouring STEALING HIS HEART, I can't wait to read any other books in the Shilling Agency series if they're anything as good as this one!
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