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Atlanta's Finest #1
Vindicated
She’s a distraction he can’t resist…
A spark ignites the moment security specialist, Hamilton Crosby, meets stuntwoman, Dakota Sherrod. She’s like no other woman he’s ever met. But Hamilton never ignores his gut, and his gut tells him to stay clear of the enticing beauty.
Dakota is an adrenaline junkie. Leaping off buildings and running through fire is just another day at the job. Hence when she sets her sights on Hamilton, she goes after him full-force. Their attraction is fierce, but he thwarts her advances at every turn. He’s the strong, silent type who operates by a set of rules, but he’ll soon realize she rarely follows rules.
Falling for Dakota catches Hamilton off guard. So does the fact that she’s attached to part of his past. A past that indicted him with shame and loss. But when Dakota becomes the target of an unknown enemy, Hamilton stops at nothing to protect her. In turn, vindication is his reward, except it comes with complications.
A spark ignites the moment security specialist, Hamilton Crosby, meets stuntwoman, Dakota Sherrod. She’s like no other woman he’s ever met. But Hamilton never ignores his gut, and his gut tells him to stay clear of the enticing beauty.
Dakota is an adrenaline junkie. Leaping off buildings and running through fire is just another day at the job. Hence when she sets her sights on Hamilton, she goes after him full-force. Their attraction is fierce, but he thwarts her advances at every turn. He’s the strong, silent type who operates by a set of rules, but he’ll soon realize she rarely follows rules.
Falling for Dakota catches Hamilton off guard. So does the fact that she’s attached to part of his past. A past that indicted him with shame and loss. But when Dakota becomes the target of an unknown enemy, Hamilton stops at nothing to protect her. In turn, vindication is his reward, except it comes with complications.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2018
247 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
About the author
Sharon C. Cooper
69 books924 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sharon C. Cooper loves anything involving romance with a happily-ever-after, whether in books, movies, or real life. She writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, as well as romantic comedy. She enjoys rainy days, carpet picnics, and family game night. Her stories have won numerous awards, including The Rochelle Alers Best Series award for her Atlanta’s Finest Series (2022) and The Beverly Jenkins Author of the Year award (2021). When she isn’t writing, Sharon loves hanging out with her amazing husband, doing volunteer work, or reading a good book (a romance of course). To read more about Sharon and her novels, or to sign up to be notified of her latest releases, visit www.sharoncooper.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
May 10, 2018
I enjoyed this romantic suspense. Vindicated is an excellent title because not only is the hero, Hamilton, seeking some vindication from losing his job with the Atlanta Police Department, but a mysterious character is also wrecking havoc and seeking vindication from a past wrong that involved the Dakota’s (the heroine) father. Author Sharon C. Cooper does an excellent job in engaging the reader in this page-turner. The romance between Hamilton and Dakota was on point, and I loved the HEA. I recommend this story, and i’m looking forward to reading the second book of this series.
April 29, 2018
Vindicated WOW
I finished it in one day because Ms. Cooper grabs your attention from start to finish and her characters are something else. Cannot wait for Laz's story.
I finished it in one day because Ms. Cooper grabs your attention from start to finish and her characters are something else. Cannot wait for Laz's story.
August 18, 2023
This is book 1 in Sharon C. Cooper’s Atlanta’s Finest Series.
I loved Cooper’s unique set-up for Dakota and Hamilton plus a romantic suspense that included many of my favorite tropes/elements: strong women, protective yet respectful men, cute kid, a great mystery, and fun banter sprinkled throughout. I enjoyed how the relationship evolved for these two – instant attraction but with Hamilton holding back due to their professional relationship and past with Dakota’s father.
Cooper did a great job of keeping the whodunnit interesting with perilous events interspersed in the building romance and enough suspects so it wasn’t obvious. I enjoyed the dynamic secondary characters. I wish that Dominic had more page time because he was so much fun! I liked that while angst was caused by Hamilton’s ex, Jackie, it wasn’t over the top.
Solid but somewhat sad resolution. Loved the HEA for this couple and am looking forward to Laz’s book, Indebted.
Narration:
Leon Nixon’s narration was wonderful. There’s a lot of security guys and he gave them all unique voices and personalities. I also enjoyed that the parts from Dakota’s perspective were delivered slightly differently which offered a solid distinction between the viewpoints. Hamilton’s voice was absolutely dreamy. Great listen.
Content Warning (spoilers):
false accusations of sexual assault against Hamilton, death of a friend, attack resulting in hospitalization of two main characters
I loved Cooper’s unique set-up for Dakota and Hamilton plus a romantic suspense that included many of my favorite tropes/elements: strong women, protective yet respectful men, cute kid, a great mystery, and fun banter sprinkled throughout. I enjoyed how the relationship evolved for these two – instant attraction but with Hamilton holding back due to their professional relationship and past with Dakota’s father.
Cooper did a great job of keeping the whodunnit interesting with perilous events interspersed in the building romance and enough suspects so it wasn’t obvious. I enjoyed the dynamic secondary characters. I wish that Dominic had more page time because he was so much fun! I liked that while angst was caused by Hamilton’s ex, Jackie, it wasn’t over the top.
Solid but somewhat sad resolution. Loved the HEA for this couple and am looking forward to Laz’s book, Indebted.
Narration:
Leon Nixon’s narration was wonderful. There’s a lot of security guys and he gave them all unique voices and personalities. I also enjoyed that the parts from Dakota’s perspective were delivered slightly differently which offered a solid distinction between the viewpoints. Hamilton’s voice was absolutely dreamy. Great listen.
Content Warning (spoilers):
false accusations of sexual assault against Hamilton, death of a friend, attack resulting in hospitalization of two main characters
May 1, 2018
Started Out With A Bang
I am glad that this will be a series because I already love the characters involved. This book was exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat.
I am glad that this will be a series because I already love the characters involved. This book was exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat.
May 8, 2018
Excellent read
Excellent read, I loved the storyline and characters. Hamilton and Dakota are a great match. This book had everything,mystery, action and romance. I’ve read all of Sharon Coopers books and can’t wait for the next one. I recommend this book.
Excellent read, I loved the storyline and characters. Hamilton and Dakota are a great match. This book had everything,mystery, action and romance. I’ve read all of Sharon Coopers books and can’t wait for the next one. I recommend this book.
July 28, 2020
I won't say I had high hopes for Vindicated because, I went into it expecting not to like this book and it did not disappoint. But, I will say, it wasn't as nearly as bad as I thought it would be. The story line was barely okay and the book just wasn't entertaining. It was rather anticlimactic when Dakota found out her dad and her BFF were sleeping together. I really felt like she could've developed that part of the story line differently. I would've have loved a dramatic fight scene (by fight I mean argument) between Dakota and Tymiko. And, the final reveal behind Homer hating Wesley was just stupid. So, you're going to kill the daughter of the dead woman you're still in love with to punish her father?!!! Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. Some of the words the author used was straight out of the 80's. If I wanted to time travel and read a bad romance novel, I could take a trip to my attic and read any of the old Harlequin romance books I have stored up there. And, what happened with Leon Nixon?!!! OMG, his performance was horrible! Having enjoyed his performance on other books, I'm going to say this series must be some of his earlier work. At least I hope that's the case because, whew chile, this was bad. Vindicated was my first book by Sharon C. Cooper and, after I listen to Accused, they will be my last books by her. I'm just not a fan of her writing.
May 7, 2018
Sharon always leaves me with wanting her to hurry up with her next book.
This love story was suspenseful with stunt woman Dakota who thought she was the alpha and Security Expert Hamilton let her think that she was. Loved how she never let up on him. She keep coming just the energerzier bunny.
Loved the camaraderie and back and forth between Hamilton and Dakota.
The person who I thought was after the Dakota’s father Wesley was not who I thought it was. I knew that Wesley had did something to piss the person off. Makes me wonder about Wesley’s wife accident and was it caused by Wesley’s stalker.
Wesley’s animosity towards Hamilton was really uncalled for; but women have a way of getting a man to believe them.
Loved Dom, and the way he took to Dakota. Way to go Dakota with giving her telephone number to Dom and telling him to give it to his dad Hamilton.
Loved Tymico who was Dakota’s best friend, don’t see why Dakota did see what was in front of her face, especially when Tymico showed up at Wesley’s office with lunch and to a dinner that was for Wesley and Dakota.
Now reading “Indebted” Detective Lazarus Dimas and attorney Journey Ramsey which is a part of “Breaking Bad: 14 Tales Of Lawless Love. Which is no longer available for purchase. Don’t know how much more Sharon will add but will get the extended version June 15th, 2018.
This love story was suspenseful with stunt woman Dakota who thought she was the alpha and Security Expert Hamilton let her think that she was. Loved how she never let up on him. She keep coming just the energerzier bunny.
Loved the camaraderie and back and forth between Hamilton and Dakota.
The person who I thought was after the Dakota’s father Wesley was not who I thought it was. I knew that Wesley had did something to piss the person off. Makes me wonder about Wesley’s wife accident and was it caused by Wesley’s stalker.
Wesley’s animosity towards Hamilton was really uncalled for; but women have a way of getting a man to believe them.
Loved Dom, and the way he took to Dakota. Way to go Dakota with giving her telephone number to Dom and telling him to give it to his dad Hamilton.
Loved Tymico who was Dakota’s best friend, don’t see why Dakota did see what was in front of her face, especially when Tymico showed up at Wesley’s office with lunch and to a dinner that was for Wesley and Dakota.
Now reading “Indebted” Detective Lazarus Dimas and attorney Journey Ramsey which is a part of “Breaking Bad: 14 Tales Of Lawless Love. Which is no longer available for purchase. Don’t know how much more Sharon will add but will get the extended version June 15th, 2018.
April 29, 2018
Loved It💕💕
I enjoyed reading about Hamilton and Dakota's love story. She knew who she wanted and went after him full force regardless of him trying to hold back. I also love the relationship that Dakota had with Dom from the beginning. I personally know what it's like being accused of something that you didn't do and how being vindicated truly makes you feel. I had a feeling that Wesley and Tymico was in a relationship because she was so secretive with info about her Brad and they were too familiar with each other when she brought him lunch. It was sad that they lost Tymico because of revenge. I can't wait to read the next book in the series which I think will be about Laz and Journey Ramsey.
I enjoyed reading about Hamilton and Dakota's love story. She knew who she wanted and went after him full force regardless of him trying to hold back. I also love the relationship that Dakota had with Dom from the beginning. I personally know what it's like being accused of something that you didn't do and how being vindicated truly makes you feel. I had a feeling that Wesley and Tymico was in a relationship because she was so secretive with info about her Brad and they were too familiar with each other when she brought him lunch. It was sad that they lost Tymico because of revenge. I can't wait to read the next book in the series which I think will be about Laz and Journey Ramsey.
May 5, 2018
Another INTRIGUING romantic suspense w/two VERY alpha personalities...Dakota and Hamilton both knew what they wanted...although Ham tried to pump the breaks...Dakota with her outgoing, flirtatious and oh so SEXY nature...HOW could Ham resist her CHARM...I was so GLAD they were able to pursue their attraction w/very little DRAMA...and the drama that was surrounding them ONLY served to bring them closer...nice treat catching up w/Mason and the rest of their circle of family/friends...looking forward to Laz’s story...KUDOS Mrs. Cooper!
December 31, 2018
This was the first time I read Sharon C. Cooper's work and she didn't fail me. I understand having a estranged relationship with your Father especially if secrets and lies ruin your relationship. However, Girlfriend was a great Stunt woman. She lived life on the edge until she meets "the man!" Great novel. Cute kids, great plot. Can't wait to read more of her work.
April 27, 2018
You will be vindicated by reading this fabulous story. Hamilton Crosby was to die for handsome. I loved his story with feisty stuntwoman Dakota Sherrod. Her father was so wrong, but the story was more about her and Hamilton. He can get it Sharon. I'm just saying. I'm ready for Laz's story.... Whew!
April 28, 2018
Awesome
I couldn't stop ready this book. I think this is your best series yet, and I have reAd all of your books. Great job. When I thought I knew who the stalker was you would throw in another surprise. Great series
I couldn't stop ready this book. I think this is your best series yet, and I have reAd all of your books. Great job. When I thought I knew who the stalker was you would throw in another surprise. Great series
May 1, 2018
Vindicated is a wonderful story of Dakota Bradfield and Hamilton Crosby.
Has a few twists in the story. Love their chemistry. Dakota is a strong woman, she loves her job as a stunt woman. Hamilton is just the man for her.
Has a few twists in the story. Love their chemistry. Dakota is a strong woman, she loves her job as a stunt woman. Hamilton is just the man for her.
May 1, 2018
Love Is So Beautiful
Sharon you have done it again my darling vindicated book was excellent
Enjoy every moment reading this fantastic excellent
Living all the characters especially decokta and Hamilton
Can't wait for the next book.
Sharon you have done it again my darling vindicated book was excellent
Enjoy every moment reading this fantastic excellent
Living all the characters especially decokta and Hamilton
Can't wait for the next book.
May 6, 2018
What An Awesome Storyline
Hamilton and Dakota’s chemistry jumped off the pages from the time they met. I love how they just messed together. The suspense and love story made this book flow off the charts. Congratulations Sharon on a job well done. I can’t wait for the next two installments in this series.
Hamilton and Dakota’s chemistry jumped off the pages from the time they met. I love how they just messed together. The suspense and love story made this book flow off the charts. Congratulations Sharon on a job well done. I can’t wait for the next two installments in this series.
June 8, 2018
What a book
Oh my goodness, I loved this story, cannot wait for the second book. Loved Hamilton the strong silent type, and Dakota WOW sister girl was awesome. She was strong on the outside, but soft and warm on the inside. Loved Hamilton's son Dominic. This story has attempted murder, murder, and death threats. Love the men of Supreme Security.
Oh my goodness, I loved this story, cannot wait for the second book. Loved Hamilton the strong silent type, and Dakota WOW sister girl was awesome. She was strong on the outside, but soft and warm on the inside. Loved Hamilton's son Dominic. This story has attempted murder, murder, and death threats. Love the men of Supreme Security.
July 10, 2018
Correct Me.....
I thought this was a interracial book. It led you to believe it. The cover doesn't look like a black man. And the names didn't quite fit either. I was very disappointed with the misdirection,( intentional or not). But other than that it was a pretty good story
I thought this was a interracial book. It led you to believe it. The cover doesn't look like a black man. And the names didn't quite fit either. I was very disappointed with the misdirection,( intentional or not). But other than that it was a pretty good story
July 9, 2023
This started slow for me. It heated up and got interesting, but it didnt blow me away. It really had some moments that I thought would get deeper. I will give book 2 in this series a chance. Maybe more on the characters will come out and heat up.
April 30, 2018
Suspense filled read
Another great read. Just the right amount of romance, humor and suspense. Dominic is simply the greatest. I loved how Mrs. Cooper gave updates on other friends from previous reads.
Another great read. Just the right amount of romance, humor and suspense. Dominic is simply the greatest. I loved how Mrs. Cooper gave updates on other friends from previous reads.
May 2, 2018
Another hit!
the writing of this author always keeps you guessing. Page turner. Didn't want to put it down. Can't wait for the next one!!!
the writing of this author always keeps you guessing. Page turner. Didn't want to put it down. Can't wait for the next one!!!
May 6, 2018
A suspenseful romance fueled with action and drama! The chemistry and heat between Dakota and Hamilton keeps you turning the pages! This is book one in what looks to be an awesome series,don't miss out!
May 19, 2018
From jump street!!!
Couldn't put this down! O.M.G!!! Right from the beginning Hamilton and Dakota hit it off!! I loved the banter between them!!! Oh but when it got serious and Dakota was in danger... Hamilton was not having it!!! Her friend situation was sooo sad😔her dad, was a piece of work no doubt! There was no baby mama drama at all! Loved that!!!Cant wait for Laz story!!!
Couldn't put this down! O.M.G!!! Right from the beginning Hamilton and Dakota hit it off!! I loved the banter between them!!! Oh but when it got serious and Dakota was in danger... Hamilton was not having it!!! Her friend situation was sooo sad😔her dad, was a piece of work no doubt! There was no baby mama drama at all! Loved that!!!Cant wait for Laz story!!!
June 24, 2018
Love Triumphs
Ms Cooper weaves a suspenseful tale of love at first sight between two strong people. Despite previous obstacles and disappointments they work through the dangers and challenges they faced. The positive ending reaffirms the value of forgiveness and the strength of love.. This is the first time reading this author; not my last.
Ms Cooper weaves a suspenseful tale of love at first sight between two strong people. Despite previous obstacles and disappointments they work through the dangers and challenges they faced. The positive ending reaffirms the value of forgiveness and the strength of love.. This is the first time reading this author; not my last.
July 10, 2018
Lots of action, romance and suspense. Dakota is spunky and an adrenaline junky, really like her. Hamilton is the strong, silent type and definitely all male. I love his son, Dominic. I don't care for Wesley (Dakota's father), a very self absorbed man.
August 5, 2022
Action-packed Romance!
Dakota is feisty and fearless in life and love. She's my kind of heroine. Hamilton is a take-charge kind of guy with a heart of gold. He's loyal and truthful. Together they must figure out who wants to harm Dakota's family.
Vindicated was a captivating listen. Which kept me guessing until the very end. The narrator did a great job. I look forward to reading/listening to more books by this author and recommend it to others.
Dakota is feisty and fearless in life and love. She's my kind of heroine. Hamilton is a take-charge kind of guy with a heart of gold. He's loyal and truthful. Together they must figure out who wants to harm Dakota's family.
Vindicated was a captivating listen. Which kept me guessing until the very end. The narrator did a great job. I look forward to reading/listening to more books by this author and recommend it to others.
April 29, 2018
Another hit
I was so looking forward to this book and it was no disappointed in this book. Love how Hamilton and Dakota came together and they love grow with all the twist and turn on her life. I love how Hamilton son ask her for here phone 🙌
I was so looking forward to this book and it was no disappointed in this book. Love how Hamilton and Dakota came together and they love grow with all the twist and turn on her life. I love how Hamilton son ask her for here phone 🙌
May 18, 2018
Oh my goodness!
Sharon did her good writing with this here book! Some things I sensed, like what was going on with Tymico and Wes but I couldn’t see most of the twists and turns coming! And I love, love, love Dakota and Hamilton together! They are everything! I can’t wait until the next book. Great story!
Sharon did her good writing with this here book! Some things I sensed, like what was going on with Tymico and Wes but I couldn’t see most of the twists and turns coming! And I love, love, love Dakota and Hamilton together! They are everything! I can’t wait until the next book. Great story!
May 28, 2018
Great read!
Hamilton and those sexy dimples sure did meet his match in Dakota, a self-assured Badass stunt woman!
Great dialogue, great chemistry, great adult love story with a dash of suspense. And by adult, yes he had an ex and yes they had a child together but it was none of that childless behavior of still trying to hold onto something that's not there. The ex admitted she did him wrong but wished them the best, like mature adults should do.
Kudos to the author!
Hamilton and those sexy dimples sure did meet his match in Dakota, a self-assured Badass stunt woman!
Great dialogue, great chemistry, great adult love story with a dash of suspense. And by adult, yes he had an ex and yes they had a child together but it was none of that childless behavior of still trying to hold onto something that's not there. The ex admitted she did him wrong but wished them the best, like mature adults should do.
Kudos to the author!
May 30, 2018
3.5 stars
June 8, 2018
Great Read
O really enjoyed this novel,it was a well written and the best thing along with suspense,there was laughter and with laughter it fills you with joy.!
O really enjoyed this novel,it was a well written and the best thing along with suspense,there was laughter and with laughter it fills you with joy.!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews