Drive (Hot Rides, #1) by Sidney Bristol

Feb 18, 2016 XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy rated it liked it

I don't know if you've ever seen the movie "Speed" with Keanu Reeves but I remember how I felt when I watched it. There was this pretty decent action packed plot and the romance between Keanu and Sandra Bullock was the afterthought. That's what I felt with this book. Aiden had his moments but the connection with Madison seemed almost exclusively circumstantial. The action was ok but the relationship doesn't really move at the same pace and is left lagging. To be frank, the story was firmly entre ...more

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Feb 08, 2016 Carrie rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley

After some trouble in Aiden DeHart's past he has turned his classic car garage into a front for a FBI
undercover operation. Aiden has gotten in with a drug dealer and been hired to obtain an external hard drive from the dealer's ex-wife, Madison Haughton. Aiden's plans are to obtain the hard drive and bust the boss of the man that hired him.

Madison never let herself admit just what her ex-husband did to make his money. When she found out what he was into she divorced him and started her life ove ...more

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Feb 13, 2016 Christina rated it liked it

3.5 Stars – 3 Flames

Boy of boy am I happy I stuck with this read. It starts off so slow that I was seriously considering skipping through it. At about 30% in, needless to say, I was REALLY hoping that “something” was going to happen to pull me in. I wasn’t disappointed!
Fast cars, Roller Derby, Bad Boys and even some good ones, what more could you ask for?

Aiden is working for the FBI, but not as an agent. He’s been hired as a contractor so that the FBI can use his car garage as a front. What s 3.5 Stars – 3 Flames

Boy of boy am I happy I stuck with this read. It starts off so slow that I was seriously considering skipping through it. At about 30% in, needless to say, I was REALLY hoping that “something” was going to happen to pull me in. I wasn’t disappointed!
Fast cars, Roller Derby, Bad Boys and even some good ones, what more could you ask for?

Aiden is working for the FBI, but not as an agent. He’s been hired as a contractor so that the FBI can use his car garage as a front. What started off as a quick, “we can get this done within a year” mission, has turned in to three years and the Feds are getting restless. Threatening to send in another team if they can’t get it done, Aiden and his team step up the urgency and things start happening so fast you feel like you’re driving in one of the cars with them.

Madison was the typical naïve eighteen-year-old girl who thought that all of her dreams were coming true when she married young. Little did she know that the man she married was not only cheating on her, but was becoming one of the largest drug dealing cartel reps in Miami. Once she realized her mistake, she left him. But she took something of his that has him “hiring” Aiden to recover his property. After everything that Madison has been through, being attracted to the one person who could potential get her killed while “protecting” her wasn’t something she was hoping for. But Aiden offered her the one thing she really wanted. Freedom from her ex…and the fact that he’s totally hot and made her forget EVERYTHING with just one kiss may have had something to do with it too.

Like I said, this starts off slow. A lot of character building not only with the Aiden and Madison, but with the “team” as well. Now that I’ve finished this, I’m really happy that the character building was there because I’m interested to see who’s next in this race.

*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.

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Jun 06, 2017 Laurie Gyd rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Fast paced with a rush

Who doesn't love fast American made muscle cars, hot males, damsels in distress, dangerous situations, clandestine groups working with the FBI, and local cops. Loved the story. ...more

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Feb 08, 2016 Susan (susayq ~) rated it really liked it

Shelves: 1st-in-series, 2016books, ebooks, military-badge, romantic-suspense

Woohoo! This reminded me of Fast and the Furious. I'm a huge fan of that movie series. And for me to get that in book form was A-MA-ZING.

This is the story of Aiden and Madison. Aiden's classic car shop fronts an FBI operation that is trying to stop a drug dealer in the Miami area. He's tasked with getting some info from Madison, who is the ex-wife of the dealer's side kick. There was a lot of action involving car racing and shoot outs. I LOVED IT!

The supporting characters who are in Aiden's crew ...more

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Jan 21, 2016 Bette Hansen rated it really liked it

This one has a lot going on and starts out a bit sluggish but I'm definitely glad I stuck with it. There is a ton of action with fast cars, roller derby,and undercover FBI operations but there is also a great romance between Aiden and Madison. This one looks like a great start to what could be a great series. Can't wait to read the next one.

This is one I definitely recommend. ...more

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Aug 24, 2017 Bookish added it

Shelves: romance

Talk about a hot and steamy new take on an FBI agent! The hero’s classic car garage is a front for an FBI operation (a plot twist that I loved because I’m crazy for classic cars). The hero has to conceal his real identity, keep his other secrets carefully hidden, and try not to fall for the heroine as he works his mission. This book is a fast, burning hot read, and I can’t wait to enjoy more titles in this series. —Cynthia Eden (https://www.bookish.com/articles/fbi-...) ...more

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Feb 22, 2016 Mollien Fote Osterman rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, suspense, alpha-male

Title: Drive
Author: Sidney Bristol
Series: Hot Rides
Publisher: Zebra Shout
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: February 23, 2016
Genre(s): Action Adventure, Crime Romance, FBI
Page Count: 384 pages
Heat Level: # 3 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:

Blazing Miami sun. Cool classic cars. Dangerous undercover assignment. In Sidney Bristol's scorching new Hot Rides series, the cars are fast and the romance is furious...

Aiden DeHart has a history--and secrets. His classic car garage is a front fo

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Jan 29, 2016 Denise rated it liked it

Shelves: arc-r2r, netgalley-arc

3.5 Hot Rides Stars

Madison is trying to live her life after her divorce from her no good ex-husband. She has finally found some sort of freedom, living her life how she wants. Things are looking good with her going to school, work, and be a roller derby girl. That is until Aiden DeHart steps into her life. She promised herself that she was done with bad boys, after truly knowing who her ex-husband was she was done with men like that. But can her heart keep the same promise her mind made? Her tru 3.5 Hot Rides Stars

Madison is trying to live her life after her divorce from her no good ex-husband. She has finally found some sort of freedom, living her life how she wants. Things are looking good with her going to school, work, and be a roller derby girl. That is until Aiden DeHart steps into her life. She promised herself that she was done with bad boys, after truly knowing who her ex-husband was she was done with men like that. But can her heart keep the same promise her mind made? Her trust has been shattered and she doesn’t know how much she can truly let go to start out new.

description

Aiden DeHart is seeking for revenge and looking to make up (at least feel some sense of cleanse) from all the wrongs he’s done in his past. But when he is forced to work for the FBI and go undercover to bring down a crime lord, he knows things are going to be rough. When he is put to the task to retrieve a hard drive that might help him take down the one man he has been gunning for, he won’t pass up the opportunity. The one thing that stands in his way is Madison Haughton, the ex-wife of the man that has hired him to get the hard drive.

While I enjoyed reading Drive I wished the author would have given a bit more detail on the cars in the story. (Yeah, I know such a thing to say. But in all honesty for me, I would have enjoyed that). Adding that detail would have helped to get the full vivid picture in my mind. I’m a sucker for cars especially the classics. (Chevy Chevelle, Shelby Mustangs, Corvette Stingrays, etc.)

I felt like the story didn’t fully pick up until about 46% into the story. I wanted a little more back ground on Madison and her life with Dustin in order to get into the storyline and Madison’s character. Overall, after the story picks up we get the action going with cars racing, schemes rolling, and it actually wasn’t a dull read. It will take time to get into the story along with its characters, but I love how it started to flow smoothly afterwards.
description

The relationship between Aiden and Madison is very hesitant; they both cannot give themselves over to one another since they both harbor insecurities from their paths. And their current situation does not help out the cause of trying to build a relationship with one another while in the mix of trying to bring down a drug king and the troubles that follow them around. I understood Aiden’s dilemma and reservations and I love that he was trying to put her first instead of himself. Madison was just as insecure, but loved how she was trying to open herself up again and live, try to trust once more and not be walked all over, she is a tough cookie.

After all of that I did enjoy “Drive” and even though I did not like some thing’s, I think it opens up for a great series and I hope that the depth follows into the next book and it becomes a lot better than the first. I also, cannot wait to see what happens between Aiden and Madison since their story isn’t close to be done along with the rest of the crew.

♦ ARC given by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ♦ ...more

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Mar 14, 2016 Catherine (The Sassy Bookster) rated it really liked it

Shelves: law-enforcement, read-2016, romantic-suspense, netgalley-arcs, bad-boys

Drug rings, gangs, muscle cars and the roller derby seem like such incompatible things but there's all that and more in this high octane first installment of the Hot Rides series.

Aiden DeHart's classic car restoration garage became a front for an FBI undercover operation after he found himself in some trouble with the law and almost landed behind bars. Aiden is hot on the heels of a local drug kingpin, the man responsible for the death of his sister and her husband and the authorities are also i Drug rings, gangs, muscle cars and the roller derby seem like such incompatible things but there's all that and more in this high octane first installment of the Hot Rides series.

Aiden DeHart's classic car restoration garage became a front for an FBI undercover operation after he found himself in some trouble with the law and almost landed behind bars. Aiden is hot on the heels of a local drug kingpin, the man responsible for the death of his sister and her husband and the authorities are also interested in bringing down the drug empire, so it's a win-win for him. What began as a quick mission has become a long drawn out operation and time has become of the essence, so when Aiden sees an in through the ex-wife of one of the top men, he takes it.

Madison Haughton's quest for a family led her to marry the wrong man and now has her precariously caught between the law and the bad guys. So she jumps on the offer of help from a sexy guy in a muscle car, but will he be her salvation or will he be the catalyst for her destruction?

So, this book started out slow for me but with words like 'FBI', 'undercover operation' and the fact that Aiden is former military, I was expecting some major action with lots of gunfights and all, but surprisingly even though there was little of that, I actually enjoyed DRIVE. Growling muscle cars and high speed chases give a different kind of rush and it's like you're in the thick of it with the characters, riding the excitement and fear and all other emotions plus, the story is set in Miami and it's like the sultry heat adds another layer to the overall experience. The biggest thing for me is the amount of detail that went into the car scenes and even the derby. You can tell that the author did her research (or actually participates in both activities) and I loved all that detail.

Now, about the characters - I usually prefer my characters to be black or white with a few shades of gray, but these characters mostly operate in the shadowy area between legal and illegal, doing wrong things for the right reasons and I had mixed feelings about them. Aiden is tough, maybe even hard and on the verge of being swallowed up by his life on the edge and Madison is a breath of fresh air and just what he needs to pull him back from the brink but will he take what she's offering? Madison is smart and determined to be in charge of her life, but her involvement with Aiden threatens all that she has accomplished so far, but he may also be the key to what she's been searching for her whole life.

Everything about this book is fast and I really enjoyed it. As the first book in a series, there are a lot of characters to meet and is clear who the characters in upcoming books will be, so be prepared for that.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Feb 28, 2016 Krissys rated it really liked it

Shelves: featured-books, star

Drive (Hot Rides) - Sidney Bristol

Aiden DeHart has a history—and secrets. His classic car garage is a front for an FBI operation. His current mission: get some evidence from a drug dealer’s ex-wife, then get out. Madison Haughton sending his engine into overdrive isn’t part of the plan, though, especially considering she might not be as innocent as Aiden thought…

Since her divorce from her sleazeball ex, Madison has sworn off bad boys, gotten some sweet tattoos, and become a star of Miami’s roll ...more

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Mar 08, 2016 Gaele rated it really liked it

Shelves: reviewed, net-galley, kensington, 2016-challenges, ntyc, crrc

I know when I jump into a book by Sidney Bristol that I’m in for a ride… and Drive did not fail to deliver! Although it starts out slowly, developing the backstory and introducing the characters, soon we find the fast cars, fast deals and some smexy times heat up your metaphorical reading engine as you speed to the end.

Aiden owns a classic car shop in Miami, but he also has a sideline: fronting for the FBI. Currently a drug ring is their focus, and Aiden is the man to get information from the d ...more

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Mar 15, 2016 Ruthie Taylor rated it really liked it

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

The first in a new series, this is a really good read. It is packed full of action, and intrigue, baddies and goodies, and a very sweet romance too!

It is a long book, with plenty going on, so definitely a good value read. There are so many good extras, that I don't really know where to start - from classic cars, to roller derby and running an airport to living on a boat in a marina. It touches on some interesting and top ...more

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Feb 16, 2016 Mags rated it really liked it

Shelves: books-i-would-recommend, authors-new-to-me, arcs-reviewed, series-books, 4-star-books, fbi-romance

ARC given by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I ended up really enjoying this book, the author herself is new to me and honestly I really didn't know what to expect, but was so intrigued by the synopsis of the story I took a chance and requested it, and am really glad I did.

Although I did find the story a little slow to start, (was expecting a bit of action from the outset) but instead it was more of a slow burn that exploded into action during the second half of the boo ...more

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Feb 29, 2016 Katrina Marie rated it really liked it

This review was originally posted on Bookish Things & MoreDrive is the perfect read to get ready for Summer. It's hot, steamy, and will have you flipping the pages.

Aiden and Madison definitely have chemistry. They can't seem to be around each other without the sparks flying. The story will draw you in, and keep you interested. Between the Aiden, Madison, and the cast of friends they have, there's never a dull moment.

I loved that there is racing and roller derby. I've never been to a derby, but ...more

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Feb 22, 2016 Stephanie rated it really liked it

This book starts out really slow but as the story progresses you start really getting intrigued. Who can you trust Madison has changed her life so much you can only feel for her with the mistakes she made. Aiden is a really amazing man the things he does to protect the innocent. I'm very excited about this series I found it kept my mind occupied wondering who these people were. I received this as an Arc from netgalley and the publisher for an honest review. Reviewer for Night and Day book blog ~ ...more

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Feb 09, 2016 Taz rated it really liked it

Received an ARC on Netgalley

Bristol wrote an action packed book in her new Hot Rides series. Madison appeared to be as tough as nails women who plays roller derby. Aiden had me fast and furious excited especially with the car racing descriptions. Madison and Aiden together was a winning combination.

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Mar 28, 2018 Jenn Cunha rated it it was ok

Shelves: arc-netgalley

Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

DNF at 50%. There was nothing wrong, I just couldn't get connected. It felt like I was supposed to know more about these characters than I did, so I was playing catch up. ...more

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Feb 16, 2019 Coral rated it liked it

Shelves: from-second-hand

This book had decent writing, but felt very derivative. The ending was a mess - TSTL heroine, muddied shootout and unresolved plot points. Nevertheless I would check out the next book if I came across it on sale.

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Nov 08, 2017 Brenda rated it it was ok

The 1st half of the book was slow, it did pick up and I finished the book.

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Feb 02, 2017 Melissa rated it liked it

Shelves: fiction

Fast cars, roller derby, gangs and the FBI make for a page turner in Drive.

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Feb 17, 2016 Samantha rated it really liked it

Shelves: e-books

Summary from Goodreads:

"Aiden DeHart has a history—and secrets. His classic car garage is a front for an FBI operation. His current mission: get some evidence from a drug dealer’s ex-wife, then get out. Madison Haughton sending his engine into overdrive isn’t part of the plan, though, especially considering she might not be as innocent as Aiden thought…

Since her divorce from her sleazeball ex, Madison has sworn off bad boys, gotten some sweet tattoos, and become a star of Miami’s roller derby sc Summary from Goodreads:

"Aiden DeHart has a history—and secrets. His classic car garage is a front for an FBI operation. His current mission: get some evidence from a drug dealer’s ex-wife, then get out. Madison Haughton sending his engine into overdrive isn’t part of the plan, though, especially considering she might not be as innocent as Aiden thought…

Since her divorce from her sleazeball ex, Madison has sworn off bad boys, gotten some sweet tattoos, and become a star of Miami’s roller derby scene. But however fast she skates, her ex is always on her tail. When the sexy guy in the muscle car offers to help, he could be her ticket to safety—or a detour down a deadly road…"

My Thoughts:

I've been on a bit of a romance kick as of late and the summary of this one was just too good to pass up. Also this sounded like romantic suspense which I can never resist. It was a pretty good choice on my part as I enjoyed this one. Last weekend we took the kiddos for a quick weekend getaway to an indoor water park and while the kiddos swam I sat poolside and devoured this book. It was the perfect read for a weekend like this as I was able to set it down and pick it back up with ease, jumping right back in where I had left off. It was fast paced enough to keep my attention and had me intrigued throughout the entire book. You can't ask for more than that!

What I really enjoyed about this book though was the chemistry and developing relationship between Aiden and Madison. These two were so different from each other but I couldn't help but love them together! One of the things that I loved about Madison was her drive and motivation. She used her divorce from a truly bad individual to better herself and really develop her own identity. I loved that she was in roller derby which isn't something that I know much about. Heck, the entire book could have focused on her roller derby experiences and I bet I would have loved it. It was so unique and fun, and I definitely wanted to read more about it. I also really liked Aiden's character and was pulled in by his back story. There is definitely more that the author hasn't shared in regards to Aiden and his partner Julian. Actually all of the secondary characters or Aiden's "group" that he worked with left me excited as I'm eager to read their books. The relationship between Aiden and Madison though was definitely what I wanted to read the most about and I really enjoyed watching this relationship develop. The ending of this book was definitely the most intense part for me! I found myself unable to put the book down by that point (no worries we were home by then). I liked the way it ended but am curious to see what happens next. Because you kind of know that everything can't possibly be over...not yet anyways. Bring on the next book!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was a fun read! The characters were really great and left me especially eager to learn more about some of those secondary characters that we got glimpses of. I loved the racing and car themes that were present throughout the book. And I especially adored the parts that focused on roller derby. This book was a solid read and if I still did ratings would probably be an easy 3.5 stars. I found it a perfect way to spend the weekend and can't wait to see what this author comes up with next. Recommended!

Bottom Line: A fun and suspenseful read that I enjoyed.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher as part of a Tasty book tour. ...more

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Feb 23, 2016 Shayay rated it really liked it

I enjoyed Drive, and I liked that it sort of has a Fast and Furious feel because I like those movies, so I was on board for all the car talk. I almost gave this a 4 rating, but I felt the characters were a bit confusing, and I would have liked them to be fleshed out a bit more. I loved that Madison was part of the roller derby! And she has a really kick-ass moment, that was awesome! Unfortunately, she usually put herself in bad situations by making some bad decisions, so I was going back and for I enjoyed Drive, and I liked that it sort of has a Fast and Furious feel because I like those movies, so I was on board for all the car talk. I almost gave this a 4 rating, but I felt the characters were a bit confusing, and I would have liked them to be fleshed out a bit more. I loved that Madison was part of the roller derby! And she has a really kick-ass moment, that was awesome! Unfortunately, she usually put herself in bad situations by making some bad decisions, so I was going back and forth on how I felt about her, and I didn't love that she says one thing and does another. I liked Aiden, but I also felt he also made odd decisions, and he also wasn't firm in his decisions.

Aiden runs a car shop, but he also is helping the FBI catch some bad guys by working undercover as a guy who is sort of involved with the criminal element, so he's not exactly squeaky clean. Aiden is tired of doing this type of work, but feels like he is sort of trapped in his position, and he has a team that he cares for, so that just adds to the pressure to keep working with the FBI, and he also has a personal vendetta against a really bad guy. Madison is trying to pull her life together after divorcing a douche of a guy, who is involved in shady business with the bad guys, but said douche, asks Aiden to get a flash drive from Madison by any means necessary. The FBI wants Aiden to see if Madison knows anything about the douches business, so Aiden agrees to get close to Madison to find out if she is trustworthy or if she was/is involved with the douche's business. Madison wants her Ex out of her life, so when Aiden offers to help her out, she agrees that Aiden can help keep her safe from her Ex's dealings.

I felt Madison was a bit too trusting after having a less than stellar track record of dealing with guys. She meets Aiden, and right away she gets into a car with him. I also found it odd that Aiden is trying to protect Madison, so I don't really understand why she went with him to the races because all it did was create more problems, and nothing was accomplished; they just went there and did nothing and then left, but along the way, they caught the attention of some local gang leader, who has beef with Aiden and his crew, so now Madison is in danger because the gang people saw her with him, so yup more problems.

Both Aiden and Madison feel a connection, but they both feel they aren't in a place to be in any type of serious relationship. I liked them together, and they do have some sweet moments, and some spicy scenes. I think the sex scenes were well placed, and the author did a good job of balancing out the story with the relationship scenes.

I kind of felt that not a lot is going on in this book; they basically drive around to different places, and build up trouble, but I was interested through the whole book, and there were some cool elements in the story. I liked most of the side characters, so I'm looking forward to reading their books, and read more about Aiden and Madison. This book ends in a sort of cliffhanger, but more of a to be continued type of thing, and the next books in the series will feature other characters in the lead positions. If you enjoy car talk, a cute romance, and some action, then I suggest giving Drive a read. Looking forward to more! ...more

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Mar 04, 2016 Christine rated it liked it

Shelves: arcs-netgalley-authors, book-tours, 3-stars, contemporary, men-in-uniform

3.5 STARS

As much as I love men in uniform, undercover operations do draw out the sexy guys. It's all about control: making sure you say the right words and act a certain way. Once your cover's blown, you might not live to see another day. There is always the thrill of trying not to get caught and if you like the thrill of getting caught up in a book, you'll love this one. It's filled with fast cars, bad guys, a whole lot of action (sexy times and shoot outs). You wouldn't expect love to fall int 3.5 STARS

As much as I love men in uniform, undercover operations do draw out the sexy guys. It's all about control: making sure you say the right words and act a certain way. Once your cover's blown, you might not live to see another day. There is always the thrill of trying not to get caught and if you like the thrill of getting caught up in a book, you'll love this one. It's filled with fast cars, bad guys, a whole lot of action (sexy times and shoot outs). You wouldn't expect love to fall into the mix...but it does!

Aiden DeHart, works alongside the FBI to take down a drug dealer, who has taken a few years to track down. A guy who makes sure to clean up his messes. In order to get close to him, Aiden tries to draw out data from his right hand man, Dustin Ross. Only, there is a problem...Dustin's ex-wife stole the drive he needs. Since he does have a way with woman, things may have gotten easier for Aiden.

All Madison Ross really needed was to get away from her ex-husband. Everywhere she turns, every time she wants to start over, Dustin always finds a way to mess with her. She has the one thing he needs and she'll make sure he doesn't get it. When a handsome guy like Aiden shows up, claiming the drive is the only way to take down a drug dealer and her ex-husband, she couldn't help but go along for the ride.

Thoughts:

PLOT LINE - The thrill of an undercover operation is wrapped up with gangs, drugs, money, guns and hidden data. It is like a roller coaster ride with turns that may be a little predictable. But, there are parts that are not as such. Aiden likes to stick to his plans when it comes to getting what he wants. And, when another gang, the Eleventh, comes into play, things get a bit messy because they like to play dirty. The car chases and unexpected visits will certainly stir up some drama. When a woman is an added element the story, it can change things up as well. Especially, when she is connected to the guy he wants to take down for good. Although he shouldn't get involved with her, he can't help the protective nature that comes out.

CHEMISTRY - Aiden's possessiveness + Madison's sassiness = explosive romance. Not only is their love kinda forbidden, it just hits him when he least expected it. From that instant connection as their eyes connected and careful touches were exchanged...you know the sexy times will be amazing. The only thing that bothered me was how she can trust him so easily. Of course she is hesitant at first, but I expected her to take some more time than it should, to gain his trust. Maybe Aiden's sweet talk drew her in and is not bad on the eyes either. The way he projects himself: wanting to protect her, in an alpha male kind of way, is pretty sexy. I guess the feeling of safety is all Madison needed.

CREW - It's like when the Fast N' Furious team went undercover and were all badass to get things done. It's the characters that work alongside Aiden that makes it more special. It feels like they are a tight knit group. They all have their different quirks and it helps bring other characteristics from each other. There is a set of twins, who are my favorite. They are complete opposites, who balance the other out, and gets things done and under control. I can't wait until their stories are told. I love it when love blossoms within the group too! ...more

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Feb 24, 2016 Terisa rated it liked it

Drive

3.5 Stars

Working undercover for the FBI there were a number of things that Aiden DeHart had done but falling for a girl that he was helping to investigate wasn’t one of them, until now.

Madison Haughton knew that her ex-husband wasn’t a perfect man when she married him but she fell for the bad boy that ravished her with expensive gifts and a nice house. She was happy to play the perfect homemaker until it became obvious that the things that he was into were a lot worse than she had ever Drive

3.5 Stars

Working undercover for the FBI there were a number of things that Aiden DeHart had done but falling for a girl that he was helping to investigate wasn’t one of them, until now.

Madison Haughton knew that her ex-husband wasn’t a perfect man when she married him but she fell for the bad boy that ravished her with expensive gifts and a nice house. She was happy to play the perfect homemaker until it became obvious that the things that he was into were a lot worse than she had ever imagined. Now divorced and barley making it on her own, she’s finally happy. Happier when he’s not making her life a living hell but she’s happy with her life as a top roller derby skater. Happy with the job that she has working at the airport because she knows that even though they are people that she’s known since high school, she knows that she came about her promotions because she worked hard. She determined that she will never fall for another bad boy until Aiden shows up. He’s another bad boy personified but there is something him that makes her believe that he may not be as bad as he makes himself out to be. He’s too nice for someone that’s supposedly working for her ex but he claims that only needs to get what she took that wasn’t hers because he’s after revenge as well. Can she trust him?

While I did enjoy this book, there were some things that were completely unbelievable. First, Madison has a heavy detail of police detail following her. Supposedly to keep her safe from her ex but let’s be real here, there is no police force out there that would ever have the means to follow one girl to protect her almost 24/7 even if her ex was heavy into drug dealings or whatever. The whole thing about Madison leaving her ex is believable but the fact that she goes from being a “housewife” to a top ranking speed skater that’s all tatted up is also unbelievable. I guess it would have been a little more believable if this took place up north and we were talking about speed skating on the ice where it’s all the rage for the Olympics but this story takes place in Miami and we’re talking roller speed skating that she took up out of the blue in her middle to late 20s because she thought it looked fun. Then I also have to take into consideration that there were so many things that were either not explained, ignored or never resolved in this story. I won’t to go into detail but it most of it revolves around Madison, her life, her friends and her police detail.

SO…. I’m not real sure about this one… did I like it? Yes and no, there were certain things that I really liked and others that I really didn’t. It was slow starting off but then got really good, somewhat boring but then good again. I felt that there were a lot of highs and lows, when you add that to all of the questions that I felt went unanswered or unexplained, I can only give it a 3.5. I would be interested in reading the next story though because one of the things that I loved most about the book was the team that Aiden had that helped him at the shop all of course they will also be in the next book.

I was given an ARC from the publisher thorough Netgalley in return for an honest review.

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Mar 12, 2016 Bec rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley, book-magic-reviews

If there's one thing Aiden DeHart wants it's retribution for the murders of two people he loved. Working for the FBI, he's tasked with getting evidence to bring down a very dangerous man. Except the woman he needs to get the evidence from might be just as dangerous, if he's not careful. Because the danger isn't to his life, it's to his heart.

Madison Haughton hasn't had the easiest of times since her divorce. Her drug dealing ex-husband keeps sending his goons around to harass her because he des
If there's one thing Aiden DeHart wants it's retribution for the murders of two people he loved. Working for the FBI, he's tasked with getting evidence to bring down a very dangerous man. Except the woman he needs to get the evidence from might be just as dangerous, if he's not careful. Because the danger isn't to his life, it's to his heart.

Madison Haughton hasn't had the easiest of times since her divorce. Her drug dealing ex-husband keeps sending his goons around to harass her because he desperately wants something she took from their home when she left. But now, she's had enough and will do anything to get her ex out of her life, even if that means trusting a man that represents everything she promised herself she'd stay away from.

What an engaging and fast-paced read Ms. Bristol has penned with this first book of her new romantic suspense series, which was filled with a perfect blend of romance and mystery. This story opened really well by introducing readers to Madison's ex-husband and the reason why Aiden is using him to get to the man he's really interested in taking down.

The dialogue kept me entertained from start to finish due to both characters back stories and everything that happens throughout this story because Madison and Aiden are facing danger from two different enemies -- one that's after them and the one that they're after. However, they're are some nice light-hearted moments between Aiden and Madison that had me smiling, as the hero strived to win the heroine's trust, which wasn't easy after everything she's been through with her ex. Because she believes Aiden with his looks and attitude presents a bad boy image, and she's promised herself she'd stay away from that type of guy.

I really liked both main characters as well as the secondary characters, which are part of the team Aiden works with. Madison is strong, independent and brave. She's managed to turn her life around since leaving her ex-husband, doing everything in her power to protect herself. Her love of roller derby and playing the game has certainly given her more confidence and the assertive attitude she possesses to challenge Aiden when they first meet. No way will she make things easy for him until she learns if she can trust him.

While Aiden, he's tenacious, confident and protective. He's determined to do his job, but it isn't easy, not with an old enemy coming after him and his team. He's also determined to protect Madison, hoping to earn her trust with everything he does to keep her safe. Even though he's keeping secrets she probably deserves to know to make her more willing to help him.

As for the romance between Aiden and Madison, it was nicely-detailed and hot, illustrating the strong chemistry this couple had really well. Both are adamant that they don't want a relationship, yet, it's hard for both to deny the feelings they're developing for the other.

Overall, this was a really good read, of which I'm looking forward to reading more of this new series by Ms. Bristol. Also, I really enjoyed how this book ended with Madison fighting for their relationship, and then getting the chance to reunite with her family. I would recommend Drive by Sidney Bristol, if you enjoy romantic suspense novels, or second chance romances. ...more

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Jan 15, 2016 Alison rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, military-special-ops-romance, 2016-read, contemporary, cia-fbi

I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Madison is a (fairly) recently divorced woman. She got screwed over by her scumbag ex-husband Dustin in the divorce and is now living on a tiny boat in the marina. She works part-time at her friend's father's airline shipping business and part-time waitressing at the roller derby drive-in. She divorced Dustin when she realised that he wasn't just a little bit shady, he was dealing drugs. Now the I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Madison is a (fairly) recently divorced woman. She got screwed over by her scumbag ex-husband Dustin in the divorce and is now living on a tiny boat in the marina. She works part-time at her friend's father's airline shipping business and part-time waitressing at the roller derby drive-in. She divorced Dustin when she realised that he wasn't just a little bit shady, he was dealing drugs. Now the Miami police are giving her police protection but also pressurising her to help them get evidence against Dustin.

Aidan is an ex-special ops soldier working deep undercover with a gang of FBI agents as part of the Miami underground car racing scene. On the side they disrupt the drug dealers and try to find evidence on Michael Evers, someone who is suspected of being a king-pin but they can't find any evidence. Aidan's gang consists of: his friend Julian who is basically being blackmailed by the FBI to work undercover; a computer/technology geek called Emery; Russian twins called Tori and Roni Chazov; and an older married FBI couple Kathy and CJ.

Dustin hires Aidan to find a hard drive which he believes Madison took in the divorce. Aidan wants it in case it has evidence which could convict either Dustin or Michael. At first he can't believe that Madison wasn't part of Dustin's schemes - he doesn't think she could be married to him for so long without having a clue.

Together Aidan and Madison search for the missing hard-drive whilst fending off her ex-husband, Evers, a drug gang and an over-attentive police officer.

I liked the plot of this book, it was fast moving and made a change from the setting of other books in this genre. It felt a bit like the Fast and the Furious meets NCIS Los Angeles.

What didn't work as well for me was the characterisation of Aidan and Madison. At the start of the book Madison is portrayed as a foul-mouthed, roller derby player. The trouble is, her swearing sounded false at the start and tailed off at the end. Although a big deal was made about Madison being an aggressive roller derby player we only saw her in action once. After the unconvincing start Madison seemed to morph into the heroine of pretty much every one of this type of book, bossed around by the man and choosing to rebel at precisely the worst time.

Aidan on the other hand came across as a complete alphahole. He was aggressive, secretive, demanding and I just generally didn't warm to him. Luckily he too morphed in the second half of the book and developed warm cuddly feelings.

The other characters never really developed, this is really all about Aidan and Madison. Everyone was just a little bit too stereotypical- technology geek, evil drug lord, spiteful ex-husband. Maybe in the next books there will be more light and shade.

If you are a fan of this genre, and don't mind the tall, dark, brooding and bossy types then I'm sure you will love this book. Once Aidan and Madison settled down I really enjoyed the plot and I would definitely read another one. ...more

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Feb 22, 2016 Hannah rated it it was amazing

ARC REVIEW

4.5 easily

I love Sydney Bristol she always has a well written story and sympathetic characters. I love cars, I know almost nothing about the internal workings of cars but I love cars. This is like Fast and the Furious (really the second one) and Sydney does a fabulous job writing the action both with the cars and with roller derby. Sydney use to do roller derby herself so the action sequence for the bout was worded so well I could easily picture it in my head. Madison is a great chara ARC REVIEW

4.5 easily

I love Sydney Bristol she always has a well written story and sympathetic characters. I love cars, I know almost nothing about the internal workings of cars but I love cars. This is like Fast and the Furious (really the second one) and Sydney does a fabulous job writing the action both with the cars and with roller derby. Sydney use to do roller derby herself so the action sequence for the bout was worded so well I could easily picture it in my head. Madison is a great character, I loved her she got dealt a bad hand she made a bad decision and now she is trying to fix her life for the better, away from her manipulative ex-husband. Aiden is a heart throb, bad boy with a heart of gold, stuck in a situation he must see through no matter how difficult it winds up being doing things he would rather not do. Aiden didn't think he deserved Madison but she was just what he needed.

Trying to finally nail something on a drug lord an undercover group street racers on contract with the FBI have personal reasons for tying to get this guy busted but after three years they finally have a break it lies with one of his minions, Dustin. Aiden has managed to earn Dustin's trust as much as you can earn a drug dealers trust. Dustin wants Aiden to steal a hard drive his ex-wife has hidden away. It should have been easy but as soon as Aiden sees Madison skating around the drive-in diner he knows this just got way more complicated than ever. Madison left her husband three years ago, but the divorce was finally finalized six months ago. Finally free of him and she still wasn't free of him he kept sending goons over to try and steal something from her, she also has police on her tail trying to get her to turn states evidence against him. Madison has learned her lesson about dating bad boys, so when the bad boy in the hot rod shows up she's hesitant, but then the unexpected he outright admits that he plans to ruin Dustin and needs her help. Madison doesn't like that she is so strongly attracted to Aiden but she can't help it. Slowly he earns her trust enough to give him what he wants.

Overall, with the car races and roller derby bouts this is a hot action packed story; emotional turmoil and steamy love scenes it rounds off the first book of the series and make me anxious for more. ...more

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Jan 12, 2016 Gigi staub rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc-netgalley

Get your heart racing…

Blazing Miami sun. Cool classic cars. Dangerous undercover assignment. In Sidney Bristol’s scorching new Hot Rides series, the cars are fast and the romance is furious…

Aiden DeHart has a history—and secrets. His classic car garage is a front for an FBI operation. His current mission: get some evidence from a drug dealer’s ex-wife, then get out. Madison Haughton sending his engine into overdrive isn’t part of the plan, though, especially considering she might not be as inn ...more

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Mar 21, 2016 Itsy Bitsy Book Bits rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Drive by Sidney Bristol was a thrilling 5 star read.
Action, Crime, FBI, Roller Derby, Hot Muscle Cars, Romance

This is the first book in the Hot Rides series.

Aiden DeHart is working undercover for the FBI, using his garage as a front. He has been hired by Dustin a drug dealer to get something from his ex-wife. This is where we meet Madison a very strong willed woman.

Madison made a huge mistake in marrying Dustin. Since their divorce she has been trying to move on and rebuild her life. She is go Drive by Sidney Bristol was a thrilling 5 star read.
Action, Crime, FBI, Roller Derby, Hot Muscle Cars, Romance

This is the first book in the Hot Rides series.

Aiden DeHart is working undercover for the FBI, using his garage as a front. He has been hired by Dustin a drug dealer to get something from his ex-wife. This is where we meet Madison a very strong willed woman.

Madison made a huge mistake in marrying Dustin. Since their divorce she has been trying to move on and rebuild her life. She is going to school and has joined a Roller derby team. She unfortunately has taken something of Dustin’s that is very important to him. When she meets Aiden her lady parts start to stir along with her suspicions. She has been burned several times by her ex, has Aiden been sent by Dustin?

Nothing is sexier than saying “Hi, my name is Madison and I’m newly divorced after being separated for three years,” Then again, leading with Hi, want to give my lady parts a tune up? Probably wasn't a good idea either.”

When Aiden meets Madison it is instant attraction. He needs to have the right approach in getting what he wants from her. As he gets to know her he realizes that she is an innocent and has no idea what she has taken. They both struggle with trust issues. Will Aiden be able to get Madison to trust in him and help him get Dustin out of her life for good?

Her heart said she was doing the right thing, but her head wasn’t sure. Trust sucked sometimes.

The plot was great. I really enjoyed the muscle cars, street racing and roller derby piece. It added some excitement along with getting the bad guys.The attraction and sex was off the charts for Aiden and Madison, very hot. The secondary characters were great, we get to see a little bit of each which gets me excited to see more from them in the upcoming series. The ending was intense, I wasn’t sure what was going to happen. We do get to see a HEA for these two, however I can’t help but feel like there might be a little bit more for them. 1-Click and get started with this great new series today. Thank you for a great read Sidney Bristol, I will definitely be following this series. ...more

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