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Crossing the Line #0.5
Riskier Business
One more game. And this time, there are no rules…
After a life of pool hustling and living on the wrong side of the law, Ruby Elliott is living on the straight and narrow with sexy-as-all-hell NYPD detective, Troy Bennett. Now the only trouble Ruby has with the law is the naughty kind, pinned against the wall by Troy's strict and spectacularly hard body. Obeying his every command. Both of them losing themselves in a lust that borders on obsession...
But then her father returns with an offer she can’t refuse: one last hustle in exchange for information. Information she’d die to have. As the pieces and the players of the game reveal themselves, Troy feels the fine edges of his control slipping—control he can’t channel without hurting Ruby. The stakes are high, and the risk higher. Because losing this final game could cost more than Ruby’s heart…it might cost her life.
After a life of pool hustling and living on the wrong side of the law, Ruby Elliott is living on the straight and narrow with sexy-as-all-hell NYPD detective, Troy Bennett. Now the only trouble Ruby has with the law is the naughty kind, pinned against the wall by Troy's strict and spectacularly hard body. Obeying his every command. Both of them losing themselves in a lust that borders on obsession...
But then her father returns with an offer she can’t refuse: one last hustle in exchange for information. Information she’d die to have. As the pieces and the players of the game reveal themselves, Troy feels the fine edges of his control slipping—control he can’t channel without hurting Ruby. The stakes are high, and the risk higher. Because losing this final game could cost more than Ruby’s heart…it might cost her life.
129 pages, ebook
First published January 5, 2015
122 people are currently reading
5088 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Bailey
107 books66k followersNew York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
January 23, 2015
4 stars!
I'm not going to lie...I really only read this book because I was told I needed to before I read Risking it All!
And I didn't read Ruby and Troy's first book (which you don't have to).
But I must say, I quite liked this one.
It's no secret that Tessa Bailey is the Queen of the Dirty Talker.
And Troy could sure talk the dirty!
I liked that Troy and Ruby were already an established couple.
I think the purpose of this book was more to build the plot for the next book? Introduce Bowen the hero in Risking it All? Maybe?
Mission Accomplished!
Excited to see where this series goes!
I'm not going to lie...I really only read this book because I was told I needed to before I read Risking it All!
And I didn't read Ruby and Troy's first book (which you don't have to).
But I must say, I quite liked this one.
It's no secret that Tessa Bailey is the Queen of the Dirty Talker.
And Troy could sure talk the dirty!
I liked that Troy and Ruby were already an established couple.
I think the purpose of this book was more to build the plot for the next book? Introduce Bowen the hero in Risking it All? Maybe?
Mission Accomplished!
Excited to see where this series goes!
February 2, 2015
3.5 sexy stars.
Nice to revisit with Troy and Ruby.
Troy sure did know who to talk dirty.
I am really looking forward to Bowen's story. Sounds like an interesting character.
Nice to revisit with Troy and Ruby.
"Christ. How long has it been since I've gone down on you.? Three days? Four? That's a fucking sin."
Troy sure did know who to talk dirty.
Broad chest, tapering narrow hips, a black path of hair disappearing into his pants."
I am really looking forward to Bowen's story. Sounds like an interesting character.
Until the end
January 29, 2015
Dirty talking, straight up smut at its finest:)
"Go sit on the edge of the desk," he rasped. "Open your legs."
"Go on, baby. Tighten up and come again." He pressed their foreheads together, locking his gaze with hers. "As soon as you do, I'm going to sink all the way in, to the back of your pussy. I'm going to do what only I have the privilege of doing. And you're going to take my seed and love it."
The smutty good times are continuing into Risking it all, so I'm off to read!
December 30, 2016
4 'Until the End' Stars!
As you may know, Tessa Bailey is one of my go-to authors. She writes the best dirty heroes and Troy is no exception! It was great to catch up with him and Ruby!
Riskier Business is a great introduction to the Crossing the Line series and I can't wait to read Bowen's book (he definitely sounds intriguing!). I think I will start his book now. Gah! Love this woman's writing!
As you may know, Tessa Bailey is one of my go-to authors. She writes the best dirty heroes and Troy is no exception! It was great to catch up with him and Ruby!
Riskier Business is a great introduction to the Crossing the Line series and I can't wait to read Bowen's book (he definitely sounds intriguing!). I think I will start his book now. Gah! Love this woman's writing!
July 15, 2015
4 Stars
Can Tessa write a dirty talker that I don't completely lust after? I mean, I ask you! And if she does, may I never see that day. Besides, I don't even think it's possible. The woman has the midas touch for the dirty. Every hero she creates is not only hot, but they also stand out from each other. In a sea of formulaic writing, Tessa manages something very rare. She has a working formula of sexy romance with lots of dirty talk, but no one character of hers sounds the same. And let me just tell you that this connoisseur of dirty talking heroes loves the hell out of that!
We first met Troy and Ruby in His Risk to Take, and before you dive into this book I'd strongly advise that you read that one first. While Tessa gives you plenty of background on their relationship that you could technically read this as a standalone, I think you'd appreciate the relationship between these two more having read their first book.
Riskier Business marks the beginning of Tessa's new Crossing the Line series and it's sure to be an amazing one. Trust me, I would know since I was incredibly lucky to be able to read Risking it All (Bowen's book) early. Having read that, I can tell you that ANY unanswered questions you may have at the end of this book, will definitely be answered in the next one. So if you plan on Reading Risking it All then DEFINITELY read this one first. There's key plot developments that take place here that may throw you for a loop if you don't read Riskier Business first. Now that we have that out of the way with, let's get to the review.
Riskier Business takes places months after His Risk To Take ended. Ruby and Troy are still settling into their relationship and the volatile way they first got together. But now that Ruby's pool hustling ways are behind her, they can focus on finding their middle ground. But all that gets shaken up the second Ruby's deadbeat and criminal father comes back with an offer that she can't pass up; she plays one more game of pool and the stakes are the highest she's ever had. She'll be playing her uncle that just may have the location of her mother, a mother she hasn't seen since she first walked out on her when she was a child.
Troy is adamantly against Ruby risking herself for anything and knows that he will do anything, absolutely anything to protect her...even if it means that he may lose her trust in the process. The only thing that stays a constant in their relationship is their undeniable chemistry. That's as strong as ever...
This was a quick, sexy, and fast-paced read and I absolutely loved it. None of the drama felt fabricated or too much. It actually made sense that it would happen the way it did considering Ruby's past. Something like that doesn't just go away the second she starts dating a straight and narrow cop. I also loved the jealous and possessive streak that Tory had in this one. But then again, I tend to go for that sort of thing.
While it may feel like you're going to be left with an unresolved situation at the end, it WILL be resolved in the next book in the series. But if you're worried about a HEA, fret not, you'll definitely get one here. In spades.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
Maybe I like trouble," she whispered.
"Well, you've definitely found it. My brand of trouble is so good it hurts. You want to hurt a little tonight, baby?"
Can Tessa write a dirty talker that I don't completely lust after? I mean, I ask you! And if she does, may I never see that day. Besides, I don't even think it's possible. The woman has the midas touch for the dirty. Every hero she creates is not only hot, but they also stand out from each other. In a sea of formulaic writing, Tessa manages something very rare. She has a working formula of sexy romance with lots of dirty talk, but no one character of hers sounds the same. And let me just tell you that this connoisseur of dirty talking heroes loves the hell out of that!
We first met Troy and Ruby in His Risk to Take, and before you dive into this book I'd strongly advise that you read that one first. While Tessa gives you plenty of background on their relationship that you could technically read this as a standalone, I think you'd appreciate the relationship between these two more having read their first book.
Riskier Business marks the beginning of Tessa's new Crossing the Line series and it's sure to be an amazing one. Trust me, I would know since I was incredibly lucky to be able to read Risking it All (Bowen's book) early. Having read that, I can tell you that ANY unanswered questions you may have at the end of this book, will definitely be answered in the next one. So if you plan on Reading Risking it All then DEFINITELY read this one first. There's key plot developments that take place here that may throw you for a loop if you don't read Riskier Business first. Now that we have that out of the way with, let's get to the review.
Riskier Business takes places months after His Risk To Take ended. Ruby and Troy are still settling into their relationship and the volatile way they first got together. But now that Ruby's pool hustling ways are behind her, they can focus on finding their middle ground. But all that gets shaken up the second Ruby's deadbeat and criminal father comes back with an offer that she can't pass up; she plays one more game of pool and the stakes are the highest she's ever had. She'll be playing her uncle that just may have the location of her mother, a mother she hasn't seen since she first walked out on her when she was a child.
Troy is adamantly against Ruby risking herself for anything and knows that he will do anything, absolutely anything to protect her...even if it means that he may lose her trust in the process. The only thing that stays a constant in their relationship is their undeniable chemistry. That's as strong as ever...
"Well? How the fuck am I doing?
This was a quick, sexy, and fast-paced read and I absolutely loved it. None of the drama felt fabricated or too much. It actually made sense that it would happen the way it did considering Ruby's past. Something like that doesn't just go away the second she starts dating a straight and narrow cop. I also loved the jealous and possessive streak that Tory had in this one. But then again, I tend to go for that sort of thing.
While it may feel like you're going to be left with an unresolved situation at the end, it WILL be resolved in the next book in the series. But if you're worried about a HEA, fret not, you'll definitely get one here. In spades.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
June 28, 2019
4 Do You Kiss Your Mother With That Mouth Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Oh, Troy Bennett... He is a very special character Tessa Bailey introduced us to in his own book, His Risk to Take. He is an NYC cop with a past history and found love and a partner worth having in Ruby, a pool hustler turned businesswoman.
These two have a very intense relationship...the chemistry and dialogue is off the friggin' roof. We are with them now in this new chapter and nothing has changed...well maybe a little something... Their times together have gotten more intense; more steaming and both know how to up the ante.
I don't do quotes in my reviews because I like for all of you to discover the dirty, naughty, sexy goodness on your own. What I will tell you is Troy likes control; control in how things go...how his woman asks for things and control in making sure Everyone is ready for the main event... whatever that may be. Ruby loves him in charge; she loves his directions and she loves it when he takes matters into his own hands and teaches her how to want it even more. These two are truly perfect together.
This is a bridge novella... we get this reminder of Troy and Ruby...and then Tessa Bailey gives us Bowen...This really is the main purpose of the tale for the next book Risking it All, the official start of the next series Crossing the Line and his book. I recently reviewed it and it was everything a Bailey book should be. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So if you are as addicted as I am to flagrant dirty talking men... and that rings your bell...then invest an hour or two with Troy Bennett and Ruby...Just don't read in a small enclosed space...because you will have to crack a window to let out the steam.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
Oh, Troy Bennett... He is a very special character Tessa Bailey introduced us to in his own book, His Risk to Take. He is an NYC cop with a past history and found love and a partner worth having in Ruby, a pool hustler turned businesswoman.
These two have a very intense relationship...the chemistry and dialogue is off the friggin' roof. We are with them now in this new chapter and nothing has changed...well maybe a little something... Their times together have gotten more intense; more steaming and both know how to up the ante.
I don't do quotes in my reviews because I like for all of you to discover the dirty, naughty, sexy goodness on your own. What I will tell you is Troy likes control; control in how things go...how his woman asks for things and control in making sure Everyone is ready for the main event... whatever that may be. Ruby loves him in charge; she loves his directions and she loves it when he takes matters into his own hands and teaches her how to want it even more. These two are truly perfect together.
This is a bridge novella... we get this reminder of Troy and Ruby...and then Tessa Bailey gives us Bowen...This really is the main purpose of the tale for the next book Risking it All, the official start of the next series Crossing the Line and his book. I recently reviewed it and it was everything a Bailey book should be. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So if you are as addicted as I am to flagrant dirty talking men... and that rings your bell...then invest an hour or two with Troy Bennett and Ruby...Just don't read in a small enclosed space...because you will have to crack a window to let out the steam.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 17, 2015
FOUR STARS!
Somewhere in the world, Tessa Bailey is laughing maniacally over readers such as myself who've severely underestimated her sex writing powers. I was expecting to be gently pulled under (because for some reason, I considered myself a pro with smut scenes, silly me), and was instead thrown into the deep end with kinky shower times, an intense alpha who just knows how to please, and a burning hunger to read more.
The story is pretty straight-forward. What you read in the blurb is what you get. I will say though, I'm glad that this was my first book by her because I'm not sure my ovaries would have been able to withstand a full length novel.
So, why not five stars? This is definitely one of those moments wheresize does matterthe length of the novel worked against it, IMO. There were moments where I felt things were rushed and I would have appreciated it if it had been drawn out a bit more to really bring my emotions into play.
The other reason why I couldn't give it a full five stars is really my fault, so I feel kinda slack with my rating a little. I truly recommend that you pick up His Risk to Take prior to starting this book. I feel like my reading experience definitely would have been better had I taken the time to do that.
Overall, an awesome read. Bowen, I'm coming for you next!
Somewhere in the world, Tessa Bailey is laughing maniacally over readers such as myself who've severely underestimated her sex writing powers. I was expecting to be gently pulled under (because for some reason, I considered myself a pro with smut scenes, silly me), and was instead thrown into the deep end with kinky shower times, an intense alpha who just knows how to please, and a burning hunger to read more.
The story is pretty straight-forward. What you read in the blurb is what you get. I will say though, I'm glad that this was my first book by her because I'm not sure my ovaries would have been able to withstand a full length novel.
So, why not five stars? This is definitely one of those moments where
The other reason why I couldn't give it a full five stars is really my fault, so I feel kinda slack with my rating a little. I truly recommend that you pick up His Risk to Take prior to starting this book. I feel like my reading experience definitely would have been better had I taken the time to do that.
Overall, an awesome read. Bowen, I'm coming for you next!
February 8, 2015
3.5 TALK DIRTY TO ME STARS
Ms. Bailey knows how to give us hot, sexy men with demanding ways and dirty mouths. I enjoyed catching up with Troy and Ruby and loved getting reacquainted with Troy's potty mouth...
“Christ. How long has it been since I’ve gone down on you? Three days? Four? That’s a fucking sin.”
This was fast, fun and has me intrigued for Bowen's book.
Ms. Bailey knows how to give us hot, sexy men with demanding ways and dirty mouths. I enjoyed catching up with Troy and Ruby and loved getting reacquainted with Troy's potty mouth...
“Christ. How long has it been since I’ve gone down on you? Three days? Four? That’s a fucking sin.”
This was fast, fun and has me intrigued for Bowen's book.
February 9, 2015
Apparently, we met Troy and Ruby in “His Risk to Take”, book I haven’t read. Don't worry, you can read this installment without reading it.
“Riskier Business” take places months after “His Risk to Take” ended. Troy and Ruby’s relationship still is explosive. Troy is a cop and Ruby is an ex pool hustler. In these months their relationship no only grew, but Ruby opened her own custom pool cue factory. She’s exactly where she always wanted to be. Their lives change when Ruby finds out her father is back in town and he wants her to play one more game of pool. The one she will be playing with is her uncle, who has some information about Ruby’s mother location. If she wins she will get to know more about the woman who left her when she was just a kid. Ruby decides to play, buy Troy is not happy about it. He wants to protect her no matter what, with any costs.
I really liked this short novella! I liked both main characters and their relationship. Ruby is my kind of heroine - she’s smart and courageous, loyal. I loved Troy and the way he loves Ruby. He’s sweet and tender, but he’s jealous, controlling and possessive too. He also has a sexy dirty mouth that I absolutely loved. Their sizzling chemistry is amazing and the sex scenes hot as hell. Troy and Ruby are great together and perfect for each other, that's for sure.
Overall, a sweet, sexy and intense read!
January 20, 2022
His tortured gaze finally met hers. “Your father is back in town.”
Well, I'm posting this a day late for the #TBRChallenge but I finally was able to sit down and finish a book, so glass half full.
January's theme was Quickie, and novella came to mind right away for me. I typically struggle with novellas because the relationship development is tougher to match the depth I like. Sticking with last years rule of the books I choose for this challenge have to have been on my tbr for at least 5 years, I chose Riskier Business, which has been on my tbr since 2016. Because I've now turned into a messy reader, I haven't read the book that stars the couple this novella is about. However, I have read the first book in the series that book is in, totally counts!
This novella is .5 in the Crossing the Line series and seems to be the way the author is bridging Crossing the Line from Line of Duty series, which this couple's original book is in. Troy is a detective and Ruby is a former pool hustler who has now gone legit with her own custom pool stick company. This is a Tessa Bailey so the banging is front and center and has some hot moments but since I missed the buy me dinner portion (their first book) I wasn't totally connected to their steamy feels in the bedroom.
The author does a good job giving us the gist of what happened in Ruby and Troy's book, wrong side of the law pool hustler entanglement with detective and a life threatening situation that led to love. Ruby and Troy are now living together, Ruby has an employee named Mya, Troy still has issues with how close she is to her bestfriend Bowen, and now her shady father has come back into the picture. Daddy-o wants Ruby to hustle one more pool game, against her previously unknown uncle. Ruby's mother abandoned her and took off with $100,000 of shady daddy's money. If Ruby wins the pool game, uncle gives up abandoning mommy's location. Ruby has always been curious about her mom and though it makes Troy mad, she agrees to the game.
Does the premise around the pool game make much sense? No. Nononono. Lol. But it brings tension and angst to Ruby and Troy's relationship while also bringing some mystery to who Ruby's mom could be. If you read their original book, you'd get a lot more out of this, you'd already be invested in their emotions and probably enjoy the glimpses of past couples from the Line of Duty series. There are copious amounts of secondary characters that could entice you to pick up their books.
This satisfied the Quickie prompt in being short and having a fair share of sexual quickies. It resolved some issues I imagine readers felt had been left open for this couple and it bridged to a new series that looks to start off with Ruby's bestfriend and Bowen. Bailey delivered with what she's known for, sexcapades with some entertaining story.
Well, I'm posting this a day late for the #TBRChallenge but I finally was able to sit down and finish a book, so glass half full.
January's theme was Quickie, and novella came to mind right away for me. I typically struggle with novellas because the relationship development is tougher to match the depth I like. Sticking with last years rule of the books I choose for this challenge have to have been on my tbr for at least 5 years, I chose Riskier Business, which has been on my tbr since 2016. Because I've now turned into a messy reader, I haven't read the book that stars the couple this novella is about. However, I have read the first book in the series that book is in, totally counts!
This novella is .5 in the Crossing the Line series and seems to be the way the author is bridging Crossing the Line from Line of Duty series, which this couple's original book is in. Troy is a detective and Ruby is a former pool hustler who has now gone legit with her own custom pool stick company. This is a Tessa Bailey so the banging is front and center and has some hot moments but since I missed the buy me dinner portion (their first book) I wasn't totally connected to their steamy feels in the bedroom.
The author does a good job giving us the gist of what happened in Ruby and Troy's book, wrong side of the law pool hustler entanglement with detective and a life threatening situation that led to love. Ruby and Troy are now living together, Ruby has an employee named Mya, Troy still has issues with how close she is to her bestfriend Bowen, and now her shady father has come back into the picture. Daddy-o wants Ruby to hustle one more pool game, against her previously unknown uncle. Ruby's mother abandoned her and took off with $100,000 of shady daddy's money. If Ruby wins the pool game, uncle gives up abandoning mommy's location. Ruby has always been curious about her mom and though it makes Troy mad, she agrees to the game.
Does the premise around the pool game make much sense? No. Nononono. Lol. But it brings tension and angst to Ruby and Troy's relationship while also bringing some mystery to who Ruby's mom could be. If you read their original book, you'd get a lot more out of this, you'd already be invested in their emotions and probably enjoy the glimpses of past couples from the Line of Duty series. There are copious amounts of secondary characters that could entice you to pick up their books.
This satisfied the Quickie prompt in being short and having a fair share of sexual quickies. It resolved some issues I imagine readers felt had been left open for this couple and it bridged to a new series that looks to start off with Ruby's bestfriend and Bowen. Bailey delivered with what she's known for, sexcapades with some entertaining story.
January 4, 2015
4 - "Until the end." Stars.
Another sterling read from the outstanding imagination Tessa Bailey. Troy and Ruby return in a bridging novella, taking them from the Line of Duty Series, and opening the new Crossing the Line Series.
This quick sexy read steps firmly into the romantic suspense genre, with their relationship facing challenges neither of them are prepared for Troy goes all out Alpha-Cop to serve and protect the woman he loves. With Ruby's past colliding with her present all bets are off when her Father returns to New York, and Troy turns almost feral (in the sexiest of ways) in his desperation to keep her safe.
There is a lot going on in this novella, the surprises are unexpected and many, and Bowen features heavily which is as you would expect seeing as the first full length book in the Crossing the Line Series Risking it All gives us his story.
"We're one, baby. We're stronger together."
Tessa manages to interweave all of the revelations and plot-twists with her own special brand of sexiness, I forgot just how hot under the collar, and damp in the nethers a certain NYPD Detective manages to get me, with his dirty mouth and his willing tongue!
I don't think you necessarily need to read the Line of Duty Series, or specifically Troy and Ruby's initial novella His Risk to Take to enjoy Riskier Business but this is Tessa Bailey, so you'd be silly not to!
"My brand of trouble is so good it hurts."
ARC generously provided via Entangled, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Another sterling read from the outstanding imagination Tessa Bailey. Troy and Ruby return in a bridging novella, taking them from the Line of Duty Series, and opening the new Crossing the Line Series.
This quick sexy read steps firmly into the romantic suspense genre, with their relationship facing challenges neither of them are prepared for Troy goes all out Alpha-Cop to serve and protect the woman he loves. With Ruby's past colliding with her present all bets are off when her Father returns to New York, and Troy turns almost feral (in the sexiest of ways) in his desperation to keep her safe.
There is a lot going on in this novella, the surprises are unexpected and many, and Bowen features heavily which is as you would expect seeing as the first full length book in the Crossing the Line Series Risking it All gives us his story.
"We're one, baby. We're stronger together."
Tessa manages to interweave all of the revelations and plot-twists with her own special brand of sexiness, I forgot just how hot under the collar, and damp in the nethers a certain NYPD Detective manages to get me, with his dirty mouth and his willing tongue!
I don't think you necessarily need to read the Line of Duty Series, or specifically Troy and Ruby's initial novella His Risk to Take to enjoy Riskier Business but this is Tessa Bailey, so you'd be silly not to!
"My brand of trouble is so good it hurts."
ARC generously provided via Entangled, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
January 6, 2015
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange of honest review
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HOT...DIRTY...SEXY...STEAMY are the words that comes to my mind after I finished devouring Riskier Business by Tessa Bailey. When you want a dirty talking alpha hero, you know Tessa Bailey will not disappoint her readers. If you read His Risk to Take, then you were introduced to Troy and Ruby and in Riskier Business, it follow ups on their relationship as they struggle to deal with a reappearance of Ruby's father. So will Troy be able to protect the love of his life from sudden appearance of her father? What secrets will unfold?
Riskier Business is a short novella that is very fast paced and hot. Simply this book will keep you glued to your kindle and wanting to know how far Troy will go to protect Ruby and vice versa. I love that Tessa gave you a story with a bit of suspense and also plenty of steam. Since this book is short, I will say you don't want to miss out on reading on a dirty talking cop and his pool hustler girlfriend. Troy and Ruby will have your kindle heating up since these two were HOT!! The sexual chemistry was sizzling. Riskier Business is indeed one sexy novella that can't be put down. This was another amazing steamy book from Tessa Bailey.
Tessa Bailey
Review can also be read and found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
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HOT...DIRTY...SEXY...STEAMY are the words that comes to my mind after I finished devouring Riskier Business by Tessa Bailey. When you want a dirty talking alpha hero, you know Tessa Bailey will not disappoint her readers. If you read His Risk to Take, then you were introduced to Troy and Ruby and in Riskier Business, it follow ups on their relationship as they struggle to deal with a reappearance of Ruby's father. So will Troy be able to protect the love of his life from sudden appearance of her father? What secrets will unfold?
Riskier Business is a short novella that is very fast paced and hot. Simply this book will keep you glued to your kindle and wanting to know how far Troy will go to protect Ruby and vice versa. I love that Tessa gave you a story with a bit of suspense and also plenty of steam. Since this book is short, I will say you don't want to miss out on reading on a dirty talking cop and his pool hustler girlfriend. Troy and Ruby will have your kindle heating up since these two were HOT!! The sexual chemistry was sizzling. Riskier Business is indeed one sexy novella that can't be put down. This was another amazing steamy book from Tessa Bailey.
Tessa Bailey
Review can also be read and found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
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January 8, 2015
"You’re very confident.”
“Yeah. I am. Do you know why?” Troy pressed his hips close. She could feel his substantial erection, thick against her behind. “I have what makes you moan. What’s going to make those thighs open wide. I’ve got it right here and you’re fucking dying for it."
4.5 RATING- While Riskier Business revisits characters from the Line of Duty series, the story actually is a novella length book kicking off the start of Tessa Bailey’s new series, Cross the Line. Riskier Business catches up with Troy and Ruby as they settle into their relationship, just a NYPD officer in love with a retired pool hustler... Unfortunately, interrupting their happy life is Ruby’s father, back to cause more problems, and he definitely does! With a proposition that’s hard for Ruby to say no to, will she turn her father down or put her new life and the people she loves in danger?
...He tore away with a curse and worked his hips faster. “Hot, slippery girl.” Her ass hit the desk, giving Troy more leverage . At an angle, he drove deep , giving her a swift, accurate pounding. “Did you need Officer Bennett to come by and give you a nice hard ride?” Without pausing in his assault, he wrenched her thighs wider. “Well? How the fuck am I doing?”
Ruby shuddered as his words tempted another release. “Fucking amazing. Perfect. Don’t stop, don’t stop, don’t stop.”
“Go on, baby. Tighten up and come again.” He pressed their foreheads together, locking his gaze with hers. “As soon as you do, I’m going to sink all the way in, to the back of your pussy . I’m going to do what only I have the privilege of doing. And you’re going to take my seed and love it.”
Risker Business was pure trademark Tessa Bailey: HOT HOT HOT with a big ole scoop of dirty talk and a side dish of role-play! There’s also a touch of intrigue and an interesting revelation that comes out as well. Troy Bennett is a complete BEAST and I love him and his dominating ways! He is so sexy, definitely book boyfriend material. I seriously adore him! The chemistry between Troy and Ruby is still as hot as ever and worked for me from start to finish. Ruby did piss me off a bit. I understand why she made the decision she did but wish she would have taken the advice of those around her and not dealt with her dad.
Overall, this was a great read. Tessa Bailey delivers big with a short and sexy story. Really looking forward to the next book in this series, Risking it All, which will be Bowen’s story. I was super excited to see that it’s a full length story too!
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2015
I'm giving this five stars even if it's a novella. This book hit all the right buttons. After having some lackluster alpha males in my past reads, I finally get a dose of Troy Bennett. Hot, dirty-talker, jealous, badass and would do anything for his woman. Ruby is still not my favorite, but she was better in this book (I think). The suspense was also well-done given the novella format. Anyway, we also get a dose of Bowen and I cannot wait for his book!
* Not a standalone and need to read His Risk to Take.
* Not a standalone and need to read His Risk to Take.
January 2, 2015
Review to come
October 14, 2016
Such a fantabulously amazing continuation of Ruby and Troy's story, connecting it to Bowen and the start of the new series.
Their love scenes were hot as fuck- and their connection was heart stopping.
floved it!
Safe read
4/5
Their love scenes were hot as fuck- and their connection was heart stopping.
floved it!
Safe read
4/5
June 14, 2016
5 Still Hot n Sexy Stars!!!!
I HAD to skip ahead and read the rest of their story. Well, not really the rest, BUT I do hope to get a solid conclusion for this beautiful and sexy couple in the future:) You know, like a ring, babies , etc lololol
Troy and Ruby still set my heart, panties and kindle on fire!
I HAD to skip ahead and read the rest of their story. Well, not really the rest, BUT I do hope to get a solid conclusion for this beautiful and sexy couple in the future:) You know, like a ring, babies , etc lololol
Troy and Ruby still set my heart, panties and kindle on fire!
January 25, 2016
**3.5 Stars**
August 8, 2024
TESSA BAILEY BRINGING THE SUSPENSE + THE SPICEEEE. I'm looking forward to reading Tessa's backlist, and started with this novella randomly because it was free to me as an audible subscriber.
WOO did I love TROY. Ruby was also a great character, but I loved how passionately Troy loved Ruby. We meet them in the middle of their relationship, as they've been dating about 6 months. Ruby's past has come back to haunt, and Troy does everything he can to take care of her.
Big fan. Will be continuing the series as soon as possible.
WOO did I love TROY. Ruby was also a great character, but I loved how passionately Troy loved Ruby. We meet them in the middle of their relationship, as they've been dating about 6 months. Ruby's past has come back to haunt, and Troy does everything he can to take care of her.
Big fan. Will be continuing the series as soon as possible.
September 14, 2017
I forgot how hot Troy Bennett and Ruby Elliott are together. Do yourself a favour and read the Line of Duty series first. Then you'll see what I mean by hot. Troy and Ruby feature in this prequel and the stakes are high. Troy is his usual controlling, domineering, alpha male self, while Ruby is his equal in every way. This was a nice, quick read and the perfect way to get me hooked on the series. I look forward to devouring all the books in the Crossing the Line series.
January 5, 2015
Welcome to Quote-tastic Monday meme hosted by Herding Cats & Burning Soup.
I've come to the conclusion that whatever Tessa Bailey writes, I will love.
Troy tried to pull her close, but she evaded him.
"Answer me. Will you insist on treating me like I'm breakable even if it means losing me?"
His head fell forward on a weary sigh.
"If it comes down to a choice between your safety, your life, and keeping you as my girlfriend, I'd keep you safe every time. I'm sorry. It's how I'm built, Ruby."
Ruby swiped at the tear rolling down her cheek. "What about how I'm built?"
Oh Troy, Troy, Troy,
Of all of the guys that Ms. Bailey has written, Troy has always been the hardest one to figure out.(His Risk to Take) I never connected with him as much as Brent, Derek or even Matt...etc. (My affection for him has grown, the more I read that book, the more I liked him.)
In this novella/installment I felt like my vision was cleared. I always thought that Matt was the uber controlling alpha but I think that Troy beats him. Now, I understand why. With Ruby's background he was always in some state of fear that something would happen to her, something he could not control. Ruby, is all about taking care of herself, she has done so, for a long time before Troy ever came around. The two sides/personalities collide in this one. As always the sexytimes are ridiculously hot but I enjoyed how Troy and Ruby work through the control issue.
Bowen. Ahem. This guy, I tell ya, he is piece of work and he is AWESOME. Course I'm saying this because I've already had the pleasure of reading Risking it All and it was excellent. I cannot wait for all that Bowen goodness to be released. Riskier Business is a novella in the Line of Duty series and prequel to Bowen's novel in the Crossing the Line series. The new series that begins with Bowen is going to be a fantastic "anti-hero" series.
Purchase Riskier Business:
Preorder Risking it All:
Available 1/26/15
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This review was originally posted on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews
October 17, 2022
a steamy novella with a very protective hero
January 28, 2015
Fuck Me! This shit is too damn good. Where Bowen at? I'm off to get intimately acquainted with that dirty talking sumbitch.
January 27, 2015
Rating: 3.5/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
January 4, 2015
I really loved Troy and Ruby in His Risk to Take so I was excited we were going to get to see more of the couple in Riskier Business and thought this was a great way for Tessa Bailey to introduce us to her new spin off series. If you've already read the first book you'll know that Ruby was a pool hustler who had spent most of her life travelling around with her con artist father making money for him. When we met her she was trying to turn her life around and get back on the straight and narrow, her father was no longer around and she was trying to make an honest living when she started dating NYPD Detective Troy. Since the end of that book her relationship with Troy has gone from strength to strength, she has started her own business selling custom made pool cues and has managed to stay out of trouble. Unfortunately her father is now back on the scene and he's offering her the one thing she is desperate for - information about her mother - if she'll just play one last game for him.
Troy is reluctant to see Ruby pulled back into her father's world, which isn't too surprising considering what happened the last time, but he understands how much Ruby needs the information her father is offering her and he's willing to put himself on the line to help her get it. I absolutely loved Troy in the first book and I have to say that the chemistry between him and Ruby is still off the charts. He's a brilliant dirty talker and they love to play games in and out of the bedroom which is a lot of fun to read about. Unfortunately I had one major issue with him this time around and that was his jealousy over her friendship with Bowen. It was just irritating to begin with but then Troy goes and starts a physical fight with Bowen just because Ruby was having a conversation with him and I was completely turned off by that. A little jealousy in a relationship is one thing (I'm sure we've all felt that little green eyed monster at some point in our lives!) but it is NOT attractive when a guy gets physically violent just because you're talking to another man. I absolutely hated that and it made me question my previous opinion of Troy as one of the good guys. I would not accept those actions from anyone but the fact that he's a police officer made it even worse.
As much as I enjoyed the novella Troy's behaviour really did ruin this for me. The story is hot as hell, has a couple of interesting (although fairly predictable) twists but it lost points for that one major issue. It did remind me how much I love Bowen though and I have a feeling his story is going to be very interesting so I'm excited to continue the series with his story in Risking it All. I just hope he doesn't turn out to be a jackass like Troy.
Troy is reluctant to see Ruby pulled back into her father's world, which isn't too surprising considering what happened the last time, but he understands how much Ruby needs the information her father is offering her and he's willing to put himself on the line to help her get it. I absolutely loved Troy in the first book and I have to say that the chemistry between him and Ruby is still off the charts. He's a brilliant dirty talker and they love to play games in and out of the bedroom which is a lot of fun to read about. Unfortunately I had one major issue with him this time around and that was his jealousy over her friendship with Bowen. It was just irritating to begin with but then Troy goes and starts a physical fight with Bowen just because Ruby was having a conversation with him and I was completely turned off by that. A little jealousy in a relationship is one thing (I'm sure we've all felt that little green eyed monster at some point in our lives!) but it is NOT attractive when a guy gets physically violent just because you're talking to another man. I absolutely hated that and it made me question my previous opinion of Troy as one of the good guys. I would not accept those actions from anyone but the fact that he's a police officer made it even worse.
As much as I enjoyed the novella Troy's behaviour really did ruin this for me. The story is hot as hell, has a couple of interesting (although fairly predictable) twists but it lost points for that one major issue. It did remind me how much I love Bowen though and I have a feeling his story is going to be very interesting so I'm excited to continue the series with his story in Risking it All. I just hope he doesn't turn out to be a jackass like Troy.
January 3, 2015
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I suppose it's not really fair to call Troy and Ruby my favorite of Tessa's couples because I seriously love every single one of her pairings, but if I was forced to rank the couples, these two would definitely be high on my list. I was ridiculously excited to learn they would be getting a follow-up novella... even if I did read the books a bit out of order. I had the chance to read an early copy of Risking It All and I jumped at the chance to read that one before I knew this one was coming. But, no matter. They were both incredible stories. This one just focused a little more clearly on Troy and Ruby.
Riskier Business had everything that makes Tessa's books so special. If you've read His Risk to Take, you know Troy and Ruby can steam up the pages. (Hello! Pool cue anyone? I swear, I've sold copies of this book to no fewer than 6 other people solely after freaking out over that scene. And all those readers? HUGE Tessa fans now.) I fully expected this book to be smoking hot and I wasn't disappointed. But the other thing that it delivers is GINORMOUS amounts of feels. That took me a little bit by surprise. I've always connected to Tessa's couples, but I think this is the first time I got legitimately emotional over one of her books. All the feels? They were felt. I may have even shed a tear or two.
At 140 pages, Riskier Business is pretty much the perfect length novella. There was no time wasted here before jumping into the action – in or out of the bedroom. (The first chapter is HOT!) The goings-on in this book weren't exactly a surprise, but there were a couple twists I didn't really see coming. This book holds one more test for Troy and Ruby, and it also holds some pretty big answers. The action and suspense had me on the edge of my seat as I waited to see how everything would turn out for them.
I was so glad Tessa decided to revisit Troy and Ruby with Riskier Business. Not only was this a great setup to Risking It All, but it felt like one huge bonus for Troy and Ruby fans. It was a giant win all the way around. If you're a fan of her Line of Duty series, this is a must-read. If you're not a fan, you need to get on that.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I suppose it's not really fair to call Troy and Ruby my favorite of Tessa's couples because I seriously love every single one of her pairings, but if I was forced to rank the couples, these two would definitely be high on my list. I was ridiculously excited to learn they would be getting a follow-up novella... even if I did read the books a bit out of order. I had the chance to read an early copy of Risking It All and I jumped at the chance to read that one before I knew this one was coming. But, no matter. They were both incredible stories. This one just focused a little more clearly on Troy and Ruby.
Riskier Business had everything that makes Tessa's books so special. If you've read His Risk to Take, you know Troy and Ruby can steam up the pages. (Hello! Pool cue anyone? I swear, I've sold copies of this book to no fewer than 6 other people solely after freaking out over that scene. And all those readers? HUGE Tessa fans now.) I fully expected this book to be smoking hot and I wasn't disappointed. But the other thing that it delivers is GINORMOUS amounts of feels. That took me a little bit by surprise. I've always connected to Tessa's couples, but I think this is the first time I got legitimately emotional over one of her books. All the feels? They were felt. I may have even shed a tear or two.
At 140 pages, Riskier Business is pretty much the perfect length novella. There was no time wasted here before jumping into the action – in or out of the bedroom. (The first chapter is HOT!) The goings-on in this book weren't exactly a surprise, but there were a couple twists I didn't really see coming. This book holds one more test for Troy and Ruby, and it also holds some pretty big answers. The action and suspense had me on the edge of my seat as I waited to see how everything would turn out for them.
I was so glad Tessa decided to revisit Troy and Ruby with Riskier Business. Not only was this a great setup to Risking It All, but it felt like one huge bonus for Troy and Ruby fans. It was a giant win all the way around. If you're a fan of her Line of Duty series, this is a must-read. If you're not a fan, you need to get on that.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2016
This sequel to His Risk To Take (and the prequel novella to the Crossing the Line series) gives us a glimpse into Ruby and Troy's life and the challenges they still face as a new couple. Ruby's father is back in town with an offer Ruby can't refuse, despite knowing that neither Troy nor her friend Bowen think it's a smart decision on her part to get involved. But will agreeing to help her father with one last game risk everything she's come to love?
I quite enjoyed this story. Troy has been my favourite police officer in the Line of Duty series by Tessa Bailey so I loved seeing him in his element again here, trying his best to love and protect Ruby despite her tendency to act without thinking of the consequences. He's a dirty talking hero and the love scenes between him and Ruby are as expected - steamy and emotional. This story contained some twists and turns that I confess I didn't see coming at all! So kudos to the author for writing an interesting and provocatively suspenseful story to go with the heated romance. I'm very much looking forward to the next installment in the Crossing the Line series. 4 stars!
I quite enjoyed this story. Troy has been my favourite police officer in the Line of Duty series by Tessa Bailey so I loved seeing him in his element again here, trying his best to love and protect Ruby despite her tendency to act without thinking of the consequences. He's a dirty talking hero and the love scenes between him and Ruby are as expected - steamy and emotional. This story contained some twists and turns that I confess I didn't see coming at all! So kudos to the author for writing an interesting and provocatively suspenseful story to go with the heated romance. I'm very much looking forward to the next installment in the Crossing the Line series. 4 stars!
February 15, 2016
3.5 Stars - Riskier Business is the enjoyable sequel of the Crossing the Line series and we are back following NYPD detective Troy Bennett and Ruby’s story we met in the Line of Duty series. They are still two strong-willed people and stubborn hotheads. Together they are hotter than ever and I loved them even more than before after reading this book.
There is only one thing that bothered me. All the characters from the Line of Duty series (from Book # 3 to # 5) are happily married and are even some starting a family, but Troy and Ruby (from book #2) are still in a girlfriend/boyfriend relationship. After all this time they never got married and we never got a chance to understand why. What happened there Ms. Bailey? :D
Overall I liked this book a lot. Tessa Bailey has a gift of keeping you glued to her stories and falling in love with her characters from the very beginning.
There is only one thing that bothered me. All the characters from the Line of Duty series (from Book # 3 to # 5) are happily married and are even some starting a family, but Troy and Ruby (from book #2) are still in a girlfriend/boyfriend relationship. After all this time they never got married and we never got a chance to understand why. What happened there Ms. Bailey? :D
Overall I liked this book a lot. Tessa Bailey has a gift of keeping you glued to her stories and falling in love with her characters from the very beginning.
March 2, 2017
Nice to revisit Ruby and Troy and watch them solidify their relationship while facing a huge curveball thrown Ruby's way. Ruby has some hangups and does some boneheaded things in the name of protecting Troy, but it didn't bug me too much because she knew her limitations and didn't turn into the dreaded TSTL heroine. Troy remained a fantastic, supportive, and deep hero. Got to know Bowen a little better too in anticipation of his book, which comes out very soon! There's a nice little teaser of it at the end, too.
January 15, 2016
Until the end
I have always loved Tessa Bailey and I can never get enough of her works. Troy and Ruby's story was actually my first Tessa book and I've been hooked ever since. I enjoyed getting to see them in their new relationship and how far they have come. Troy is even hotter and more demanding in Riskier Business. I have always loved him and his commanding ways but hawt damn, Tessa, you got us all panting. Romantic suspense has always been my favorite and I am so excited to read more of this series.
I have always loved Tessa Bailey and I can never get enough of her works. Troy and Ruby's story was actually my first Tessa book and I've been hooked ever since. I enjoyed getting to see them in their new relationship and how far they have come. Troy is even hotter and more demanding in Riskier Business. I have always loved him and his commanding ways but hawt damn, Tessa, you got us all panting. Romantic suspense has always been my favorite and I am so excited to read more of this series.
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