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Kings of Corruption #1
Rogue Love
*** An explosive new standalone from the author of the Mob Boss series ***
FBI agent Braden Kane has been gong it alone ever since a family scandal sent him running straight from the Ivy League into Special Forces. That’s where he learned the hardest lesson of all — we’re all alone in the end. And nobody can save us.
When a raid goes terribly wrong, walking out is almost instinctual. Following the rules is for suckers. There’s only one way to get things done, and that’s to do it off the books. By the time he walks out, he knows there’s only one thing he’ll miss.
Her.
Nora Murphy never really had a choice. Law enforcement was in her blood.
Raised by an old-school Irishman in a houseful of brothers, she learned early on there was only one way to survive.
Be stronger. Be smarter. Be better.
There was no time for romance. And certainly no time for love. Which made tabling her attraction to friend and fellow agent Braden Kane a no-brainer. But Braden’s defection from the FBI opens the door to their relationship in a new and surprising way. Nora’s still getting her head around the possibilities when she’s assigned an important case involving a string of high-profile crimes with a shocking purpose. She can’t wait to bring down the ring of brash vigilantes — until a connection to Braden reveals itself in the investigation.
Now they’re on opposite sides of the law and order coin. Will their love be enough to bridge the gap? Will they survive long enough to find out?
FBI agent Braden Kane has been gong it alone ever since a family scandal sent him running straight from the Ivy League into Special Forces. That’s where he learned the hardest lesson of all — we’re all alone in the end. And nobody can save us.
When a raid goes terribly wrong, walking out is almost instinctual. Following the rules is for suckers. There’s only one way to get things done, and that’s to do it off the books. By the time he walks out, he knows there’s only one thing he’ll miss.
Her.
Nora Murphy never really had a choice. Law enforcement was in her blood.
Raised by an old-school Irishman in a houseful of brothers, she learned early on there was only one way to survive.
Be stronger. Be smarter. Be better.
There was no time for romance. And certainly no time for love. Which made tabling her attraction to friend and fellow agent Braden Kane a no-brainer. But Braden’s defection from the FBI opens the door to their relationship in a new and surprising way. Nora’s still getting her head around the possibilities when she’s assigned an important case involving a string of high-profile crimes with a shocking purpose. She can’t wait to bring down the ring of brash vigilantes — until a connection to Braden reveals itself in the investigation.
Now they’re on opposite sides of the law and order coin. Will their love be enough to bridge the gap? Will they survive long enough to find out?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2017
About the author
Michelle St. James
75 books542 followersMichelle St. James is a Southern California expat now living in New York's Hudson Valley.
She is the critically acclaimed author of over fifty published novels and seven novellas. Her first series (under her not-so-secret real name) received starred reviews from Kirkus and Booklist and was one of Booklist's Top Ten Debut novels. Her work has also been an Indie Next selection and has appeared on prestigious lists such as the Lonestar List, New York Public Library's Stuff for the Teen Age, and Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best. Her books have been published in over thirty countries and translated into over twenty languages.
Michelle lives in a converted barn with a leaking roof, a 70-pound puppy, and three perpetually annoyed cats. She spends her free time doing yoga, watching Love Island UK, and anxiously awaiting the next season of Ozark and the Great British Baking Show.
She is the critically acclaimed author of over fifty published novels and seven novellas. Her first series (under her not-so-secret real name) received starred reviews from Kirkus and Booklist and was one of Booklist's Top Ten Debut novels. Her work has also been an Indie Next selection and has appeared on prestigious lists such as the Lonestar List, New York Public Library's Stuff for the Teen Age, and Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best. Her books have been published in over thirty countries and translated into over twenty languages.
Michelle lives in a converted barn with a leaking roof, a 70-pound puppy, and three perpetually annoyed cats. She spends her free time doing yoga, watching Love Island UK, and anxiously awaiting the next season of Ozark and the Great British Baking Show.
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April 3, 2017
Rogue Love
Michelle St James
3 stars
Nora Murphy is an FBI agent. Strong and ready to save the world with her partner Braden Kane. She certainly is an agent who can watch her own back but her counterpart worries. Braden cant seem to kick the feeling that something is off. And when something is off things go south.
Braden Kane is former everything -- military and in a league of his own he cant seem to shake his feelings for Nora. When you let feelings get in the way someone gets hurt. It also doesn't help that he feels as if something is off. His secret ops and undercover background sends his senses into alert and this time he fears he cant keep Nora out of the crosshairs.
Braden ends up with some heavy issues and of course Nora is involved. Agents don't date agents and cant get involved. Braden takes care of that and dives into something he couldn't imagine he would find.
This one was okay for me. It wasn't bad but you knew things were coming when they did. I like a little bit more suspense. This is the start of the series and Logan is next if I'm not mistaken. Easy read so take it along for a beach day or lake day! Give this one a whirl if you like romance with action. Thank you for the ARC! Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
Michelle St James
3 stars
Nora Murphy is an FBI agent. Strong and ready to save the world with her partner Braden Kane. She certainly is an agent who can watch her own back but her counterpart worries. Braden cant seem to kick the feeling that something is off. And when something is off things go south.
Braden Kane is former everything -- military and in a league of his own he cant seem to shake his feelings for Nora. When you let feelings get in the way someone gets hurt. It also doesn't help that he feels as if something is off. His secret ops and undercover background sends his senses into alert and this time he fears he cant keep Nora out of the crosshairs.
Braden ends up with some heavy issues and of course Nora is involved. Agents don't date agents and cant get involved. Braden takes care of that and dives into something he couldn't imagine he would find.
This one was okay for me. It wasn't bad but you knew things were coming when they did. I like a little bit more suspense. This is the start of the series and Logan is next if I'm not mistaken. Easy read so take it along for a beach day or lake day! Give this one a whirl if you like romance with action. Thank you for the ARC! Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
March 23, 2017
Braden Kane is former Ivy League, former military, current FBI who frequently works undercover and secret ops and he has met some very unscrupulous characters in his career. He knows that there is a fine line between vigilantism, crime and justice. Sometimes all is not as it seems on the surface.
Nora Murphy is his FBI partner. She is a strong, independent agent who can hold her own at a crime scene. She is badass and kickass and isn’t afraid to show off her confidence. Regardless of her abilities, Braden still worries about her when they work a case together.
They have both developed an attraction to each other after working together for so long, but there is a rule about dating other agents within the agency. All that changes one day when… Well I won’t spoil it for you, you will have to read Rogue Love for yourself.
This is a great introduction to the new series and the way the characters are being rolled out is like being served a good meal over a bunch of courses. You savor each plate and don’t want it to end, yet can’t wait for the next one. Bring on Logan!!!
Nora Murphy is his FBI partner. She is a strong, independent agent who can hold her own at a crime scene. She is badass and kickass and isn’t afraid to show off her confidence. Regardless of her abilities, Braden still worries about her when they work a case together.
They have both developed an attraction to each other after working together for so long, but there is a rule about dating other agents within the agency. All that changes one day when… Well I won’t spoil it for you, you will have to read Rogue Love for yourself.
This is a great introduction to the new series and the way the characters are being rolled out is like being served a good meal over a bunch of courses. You savor each plate and don’t want it to end, yet can’t wait for the next one. Bring on Logan!!!
March 28, 2017
Braden and Nora are best friends and colleagues at one of the best agents at FBI. Both have unspoken feelings for the other but they have always prioritized their career. Until Braden starts questioning his job.
When Braden suddenly quits FBI, it fast forwards their relationship yet Braden is keeping a lot of secrets.
Both the characters are strong and passionate. They believe in doing the right thing as a part of their jobs yet are victims to the internal politics. They have always liked each other, but once Braden is a free agent he pursues Nora with all his alpha passion and they both are superbly hot together.
A nice thrilling romance which makes you question right from wrong.
*~*~*ARC generously provided by author in exchange of an honest review*~*~*
When Braden suddenly quits FBI, it fast forwards their relationship yet Braden is keeping a lot of secrets.
Both the characters are strong and passionate. They believe in doing the right thing as a part of their jobs yet are victims to the internal politics. They have always liked each other, but once Braden is a free agent he pursues Nora with all his alpha passion and they both are superbly hot together.
A nice thrilling romance which makes you question right from wrong.
*~*~*ARC generously provided by author in exchange of an honest review*~*~*
March 26, 2017
Rogue Love is book one in Michelle St James' new series Kings of Corruption. It seems to be a spin-off of another series, but you can follow the story just fine without having read any of her other work.
Everything you need to know is right in front of you.
I did enjoy the relationship between Braden and Nora. I loved how protective he was of her. I also admired how he stuck to his guns about his beliefs, even knowing what it could cost him. He had enough of regret. And enough of playing by the rules, too.
I do still have questions about the story. How did Braden find out about his new associate? I don't know if I would have some of these answered if I would have read her previous series, or if these questions will be answered with the next book — Rebel Love.
All in all, I really did enjoy this story. It was fast paced, I was anxious to get back to it when I had to put it down. I did wish for a bit more details about Braden's past, but it didn't really take away from the story.
**I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review**
March 22, 2017
I voluntarily accepted an advanced reader copy for my honest review.
I really loved this book! But I wanted more! Nora and Braden are so hot for each other but they can't act on those feelings because of work. Then, Braden quits...and you know what happens next. And it's good...so good!
But besides the coupling, there actually is more to the story. I love the intrigue of the bureau mystery and how both lead characters have such love and respect for each other even though they may have to sacrifice something for them to be together. It's very emotional when they first act on their feelings. Braden isn't all crazy alpha (maybe a little) but it is sexy and amazing! Nora is a badass chick and I love that in my female characters. And the writing depicts their emotions so well that you believe and understand the dilemma of both characters.
I hope there is more of Nora and Braden in the next book, which is about our Buddha boy Locke. Can't wait and good job as always!
I really loved this book! But I wanted more! Nora and Braden are so hot for each other but they can't act on those feelings because of work. Then, Braden quits...and you know what happens next. And it's good...so good!
But besides the coupling, there actually is more to the story. I love the intrigue of the bureau mystery and how both lead characters have such love and respect for each other even though they may have to sacrifice something for them to be together. It's very emotional when they first act on their feelings. Braden isn't all crazy alpha (maybe a little) but it is sexy and amazing! Nora is a badass chick and I love that in my female characters. And the writing depicts their emotions so well that you believe and understand the dilemma of both characters.
I hope there is more of Nora and Braden in the next book, which is about our Buddha boy Locke. Can't wait and good job as always!
May 28, 2017
Simply Rogue Delicious 😋
I always knew there was this conflict within Braden Kane and whether he was serving the right side of the law/justice. I didn't expect him to be oh so delicious though. His strength, resolve and dedication to justice rather than being on the right side of the law is what ultimately brought him peace of mind and his girl. Loved and I now have a new book boyfriend to love. Watch out Nico 😉
I always knew there was this conflict within Braden Kane and whether he was serving the right side of the law/justice. I didn't expect him to be oh so delicious though. His strength, resolve and dedication to justice rather than being on the right side of the law is what ultimately brought him peace of mind and his girl. Loved and I now have a new book boyfriend to love. Watch out Nico 😉
April 5, 2019
Justice
Braden Kane has always been on the right side of the law. But after working with the some of the nooses in the Syndicate and seeing what honor looks like a change in his life is needed. But can he leave Nora behind? They have worked together for years and he has loved her from a far for just as long. When his instincts lead him to a dirty FBI agent his views and his Nora collide. Can they survive it?
Braden Kane has always been on the right side of the law. But after working with the some of the nooses in the Syndicate and seeing what honor looks like a change in his life is needed. But can he leave Nora behind? They have worked together for years and he has loved her from a far for just as long. When his instincts lead him to a dirty FBI agent his views and his Nora collide. Can they survive it?
July 12, 2019
A look into FBI agent Brendan Kane life and his colleague Nora Murphy. Great to have a strong fighting woman in Michelle’s Mob World. As I’d read the Murphy series before this one it was good to catch up with Nora. I felt that this book didn’t add much to Kane’s character but was a further introduction to Locke before his series.
Enjoyed and wizzed through more than the first half and then it slowed down and suddenly it ended. Not sure what the sequel will bring.
Enjoyed and wizzed through more than the first half and then it slowed down and suddenly it ended. Not sure what the sequel will bring.
July 20, 2020
I swear some of the best books have the WORST titles and covers. Horrible cover aside, I’m obsessed with this book!! The suspense was amazing, the romance, best friends to lovers, was some of the best I’ve read and I can’t stop thinking about it.
And also, for those of you who are like me and want the sex scenes to be descriptive, you won’t be disappointed. Just wow.
And also, for those of you who are like me and want the sex scenes to be descriptive, you won’t be disappointed. Just wow.
August 21, 2017
Enjoyable but not nearly as good as Mob Bosses (Nico, Pharrell, Christophe). Kinda dragged out then, boom, the end. Felt unfinished and left a lot of questions. Hoping to get some answers in Rebel Love but since this is Locke's book not sure...
June 3, 2020
Let me start by saying that I really liked Braden when he got involved with the Syndicate occasionally. Braden & Nora are friends and colleagues in the FBI. I’ll leave it at that but to say the storyline is great and will leave you feeling warm and tingly.
September 13, 2021
Hidden love
The book had gripping excitement throughout. Decisions are not simple yes or no. The character have many internal battles as well as on the spot situation. The lust was an accent to the story.
The book had gripping excitement throughout. Decisions are not simple yes or no. The character have many internal battles as well as on the spot situation. The lust was an accent to the story.
March 9, 2022
Good but..
I was excited to read Braden kane's story, but it fell short for me. The story was rushed, no depth. It would have been an excellent read if Ms. St. James allowed the story/characters to fully develop.
I was excited to read Braden kane's story, but it fell short for me. The story was rushed, no depth. It would have been an excellent read if Ms. St. James allowed the story/characters to fully develop.
April 20, 2023
Great FBI thriller
This book kept you on your toes until the end. Lots of drama and suspense. It was also a good love story. Loved the twist at the end when Nora goes to the other side.
This book kept you on your toes until the end. Lots of drama and suspense. It was also a good love story. Loved the twist at the end when Nora goes to the other side.
March 19, 2017
Loved this story! Braden was introduced throughout the Syndicate stories and I always wondered about him.... and now we know. Nora has known Braden since their training at Quantico and as coworkers they both, unknowingly, hid their attraction. He is super hot, she is a woman who can hold her own and they both have badges.
What do you do when you find out one of your FBI coworkers may be dirty.... what lengths would you go to...
What will happen when Braden and Nora are no longer on the same side?
Can't wait for the next story Michelle brings us!
What do you do when you find out one of your FBI coworkers may be dirty.... what lengths would you go to...
What will happen when Braden and Nora are no longer on the same side?
Can't wait for the next story Michelle brings us!
September 8, 2021
Ok. Been a while since I read it…
March 21, 2017
Suspense and steamy - love it!!
Had an ARC review. What a scorcher of a story to start another great series by Michelle. I loved reading and discovering the person behind Brandon Kane. The intertwined stories between this and "The Boss" series is brilliant but I also like the fact you could read it as a standalone. No spoilers from me but I can say for sure you won't be disappointed.
Bring on Logan!! Can't wait to read next book.
Had an ARC review. What a scorcher of a story to start another great series by Michelle. I loved reading and discovering the person behind Brandon Kane. The intertwined stories between this and "The Boss" series is brilliant but I also like the fact you could read it as a standalone. No spoilers from me but I can say for sure you won't be disappointed.
Bring on Logan!! Can't wait to read next book.
April 1, 2017
Working for the FBI can be one very dangerous job, but when you decide to resign because you feel like someone in the Bureau isn't following the rules, well things just got a lot more interesting. Braden has been a loyal agent through the tough and ugly, even when he became friends with members of the Syndicate. He never thought about being on the other side of the law, bringing down criminals in unlawful ways. However when it becomes clear that someone inside the Bureau is dirty, Braden makes it his job to bring them down. Meanwhile he can't deny his feelings for the one woman that has captured his heart and soul, Nora. They have been friends since their training in Quantico. Now that he is no longer in the FBI, he is ready to set her heart and soul on fire.
Nora has also been secretly crushing on Braden. So when Brendan finally makes his move, she is more than willing to go along for the ride. As their relationship grows, Brendan knows that the secrets he keeps from Nora about his new job may be what ends their newly established relationship. When threats come knocking on Brendan and Nora's door, Brandan knows that his time for secrets have come to an end. How will Nora react to Brendan's new job? Can they survive being on different sides of the law?
Rogue Love is a great introduction story to the Kings of Corruption series. Nora is a string, sexy and independent woman that can take on any man. Brandan is a sweet, loyal, and protective sex god that doesn't stop until he brings justice to the world. I loved the chemistry between Nora and Brendan. It was scorching hot! Can't wait for Logan's story!
Nora has also been secretly crushing on Braden. So when Brendan finally makes his move, she is more than willing to go along for the ride. As their relationship grows, Brendan knows that the secrets he keeps from Nora about his new job may be what ends their newly established relationship. When threats come knocking on Brendan and Nora's door, Brandan knows that his time for secrets have come to an end. How will Nora react to Brendan's new job? Can they survive being on different sides of the law?
Rogue Love is a great introduction story to the Kings of Corruption series. Nora is a string, sexy and independent woman that can take on any man. Brandan is a sweet, loyal, and protective sex god that doesn't stop until he brings justice to the world. I loved the chemistry between Nora and Brendan. It was scorching hot! Can't wait for Logan's story!
April 2, 2017
Great segue
I was hoping it would a story just like this, or close. I knew by the begrudgingly friendships Kane developed w\ the Mob Bosses, he'd somehow go his way, which wouldn't be completely legal. Nora is the perfect match to him.
I was hoping it would a story just like this, or close. I knew by the begrudgingly friendships Kane developed w\ the Mob Bosses, he'd somehow go his way, which wouldn't be completely legal. Nora is the perfect match to him.
April 16, 2017
FBI agent Braden Kane has always given his all to bring down the bad guys, to right wrongs, and ensure that justice is served. But if time and experience has taught him anything, it's that the line between right and wrong, between black and white, is sometimes very blurry.
Agent Nora Murphy lives by the letter of the law. Fueled by the losses in her past and a code of ethics that she's inherited, she operates in a world where the right way is the only way.
Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres to read. When I had the chance to read ROGUE LOVE, the first book in the Kings of Corruption series by author Michelle St. James, I jumped right in, and am I glad that I did. ROGUE LOVE is a tautly-written, engaging, edge of your seat kind of read, and Michelle has done an excellent job of creating a story filled with the perfect mix of intrigue and passion, and one that makes a good case for looking at everything with an eye towards the shades of grey that exist between extremes.
I loved Braden Kane immediately. The strong silent guy, with a mysterious past, with a secret longing for his colleague and friend? Yes, please. In his job as an agent, Braden has seen both sides of things, the light and the shade, and he knows that deciding which side is right is not always cut and dried. Although Braden doesn't know all of Nora's secrets, one thing that he does know is that she is a by the book kind of person. Watching the push and pull, the internal struggle for both of these characters, is a compelling study in what makes people tick. I love that Michelle wrote both Nora and Braden as very human, with facets to their personalities that both explained their decisions, and made their relationship that much more interesting.
ROGUE LOVE is my first read by Michelle, but I am all in. Not only can't I wait for REBEL LOVE, her upcoming release about the mysterious Locke Montgomery, but I really want to go back and read her Mob Boss series, to better understand what led to Braden's decisions in ROGUE LOVE. This is an easy 4.5-star read for me, and I highly recommend it for fans of romantic suspense.
***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***
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