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Heroes and Babies #1
In Safe Hands
Former helicopter pilot Maverick Delgardo’s injuries ended his Air Force career, leaving him bitter and one drink away from becoming an alcoholic. When his sister asks for his help on a private protection case to babysit a disgraced pop star, Mav reluctantly agrees.
Deacon Daniels, onetime lead singer and idol to his teenage fans, saw his career and reputation ruined when a reporter’s exposé led to a devastating scandal. Without money or a job, a heartbroken Deacon has lost custody of his baby niece. And just when he thinks his life can’t get any worse, a stalker’s threatening messages escalate to murder.
Mav only agreed to one meeting, but his protective instincts kick in, along with an attraction to Deacon. When the body count increases, however, Mav is unsure he is up to the task of protecting Deacon from a killer. But it is too late for Mav to step away, now that he’s lost his heart, and he must find the strength to reassure Deacon and his niece that they are in safe hands no matter the cost.
Cover Artist: Jay Aheer
Deacon Daniels, onetime lead singer and idol to his teenage fans, saw his career and reputation ruined when a reporter’s exposé led to a devastating scandal. Without money or a job, a heartbroken Deacon has lost custody of his baby niece. And just when he thinks his life can’t get any worse, a stalker’s threatening messages escalate to murder.
Mav only agreed to one meeting, but his protective instincts kick in, along with an attraction to Deacon. When the body count increases, however, Mav is unsure he is up to the task of protecting Deacon from a killer. But it is too late for Mav to step away, now that he’s lost his heart, and he must find the strength to reassure Deacon and his niece that they are in safe hands no matter the cost.
Cover Artist: Jay Aheer
210 pages, ebook
First published March 19, 2019
147 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Sue
115 books1,013 followersBullets and Babies!
Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.
She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.
And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
March 17, 2019
3.5
An enjoyable story with just the right balance of romance and mystery.
It's seven months since Maverick's world imploded.His Air Force career ended in the worst way leaving him with physical and emotional scares.His only comfort is too lose himself in drink and by his own admission he's having one long pity party....
When his sister asks for his help with a private protection case it's the last thing he wants but he finds himself in a position where he can't say no.
Enter Deacon....
As the lead singer of an upcoming band Deacon seemed to be living his dream but being in the public eye has it's problems and his life takes a downward spiral as the press publish a story that sees him lose everything.And someone seems to be taking an interest in him and not in a good way.
The story is told from Deacon and Mav's pov but you also the killer's which ramped up the tension.
Deacon and Maverick had a strong,believable chemistry.They find themselves both in a bad place when they meet and they almost rescue each other.The supporting characters while not always likable added depth to the story.
Arc generously provided by the publisher to DirtyBooksObsession.Thank you!
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An enjoyable story with just the right balance of romance and mystery.
It's seven months since Maverick's world imploded.His Air Force career ended in the worst way leaving him with physical and emotional scares.His only comfort is too lose himself in drink and by his own admission he's having one long pity party....
When his sister asks for his help with a private protection case it's the last thing he wants but he finds himself in a position where he can't say no.
Enter Deacon....
As the lead singer of an upcoming band Deacon seemed to be living his dream but being in the public eye has it's problems and his life takes a downward spiral as the press publish a story that sees him lose everything.And someone seems to be taking an interest in him and not in a good way.
The story is told from Deacon and Mav's pov but you also the killer's which ramped up the tension.
Deacon and Maverick had a strong,believable chemistry.They find themselves both in a bad place when they meet and they almost rescue each other.The supporting characters while not always likable added depth to the story.
Arc generously provided by the publisher to DirtyBooksObsession.Thank you!
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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June 28, 2019
Audio - 4 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
Everything happens in a week. The ending is rushed. Everything comes together with a pretty bow on top.
Story - 2.5 stars
Everything happens in a week. The ending is rushed. Everything comes together with a pretty bow on top.
March 19, 2019
I love Victoria Sue's books and all the worlds she has created so far. It's a bit like magic ;) So naturally, I jumped on the chance to read this one. The blurb also sounded like it was right up my alley and thankfully I was right (which shouldn't be a shock).
Now before I start my review, I would like to give some credit to Jay Aheer for the awesome cover !! Freaking beautiful, if I say so myself.
Maverick Delgardo is a soldier brought down by the injuries he sustained in his last fight. He is left with nothing but self pity and a stiff drink...
Deacon, a famous rockstar, has his own demons to battle... and on top of everything else, a stalker turned murderer, to deal with.
When Mav is being asked by his sister, to protect said rockstar, he is pretty reluctant at first. His reluctance doesn't stand a chance when he comes face to face with Deacon though. We are talking instant chemistry !!
I am a big fan of mystery/suspense in my romance novels and this book certainly delivered. My favorite part, however, is that we get the stalker/murderers pov. I love it when you get the chance to be inside the "villain's" head. I can't say much more than this without spoilering the story.
If you are like me, and you love a bit of mystery/action in your romance then, you should definitely give this one a try. It was sweet, hot, mysterious and romantic...what more does a person need ?? ;) This story is a complete stand-alone, so you can jump right in it !!
Highly recommended !!
May 10, 2020
3.5 stars
Shoo! This was a rush, too much happened in way too short a time frame (around a week I think).
Shoo! This was a rush, too much happened in way too short a time frame (around a week I think).
Read
May 1, 2019DNF 35%
This isn't working for me at all, unfortunately. So much telling, not enough showing, I was having trouble really feeling the emotions. Also, the dialog was somewhat stilted. So, I'm putting a pin in this one. No rating.
This isn't working for me at all, unfortunately. So much telling, not enough showing, I was having trouble really feeling the emotions. Also, the dialog was somewhat stilted. So, I'm putting a pin in this one. No rating.
March 28, 2019
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was excited to read this book because the blurb caught my eye. Washed up pop star + disabled veteran, it was bound to be an interesting read. I admit that this had parts that kept me interested and wanting to read more, but ultimately the execution was not my favorite.Deacon was the lead singer for a band and they found quick fame but also it quickly fizzled out due to a scandal that ruined Deacon's reputation and the band couldn't recover. Now he's just lost custody of his dead brother's kid and has a new stalker threatening him. But after he cried wolf about a stalker before (or his PR company did) nobody will believe him. Except Maverick. He's licking his wounds and drinking his sorrows away on his sisters' couch and when she can't meet with a new client (Deacon) he has to step up to the plate and fill in for her.It was nice to see a hero that has been through so much. Deacon was severely injured and scarred while in the military. I was so interested to dig deep into his character and one of the things that I found a bit disappointing was that to me it felt it didn't do that. These are not problems that can be pushed aside easily and this book felt like that for me. It was insta lovey and at times that "love" was the reason why Mav was able to push aside his drinking or his lack of pride and self esteem. I just didn't buy into that.While I liked both characters individually I just couldn't be invested in them in the context of this story.
*ARC provided by publisher
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February 27, 2021
4.5 Stars ~ There are many different tropes that I enjoy and Victoria Sue has hit on one of them with ‘In Safe Hands’ – ex-military man, damaged both physically and emotionally, former rock star brought down low through no fault of his own, and a murderous stalker intent on killing the rocker for a perceived injustice. Maverick caught my attention immediately. He was a helicopter pilot in the Air Force but suffered an accident which ended the lives of his whole team while losing a leg and suffering severe facial scarring. Deacon was a rock star on his way up having just signed a contract when a reporter broke a story about his older brother having died from a drug overdose and “insinuating” that Deacon was also involved with drugs. He and the band lost their contract and then his publicist did something stupid which resulted in more loss of life. At the time he meets Mav, Deacon is dead broke and trying to start a career by becoming an audiobook narrator. The last thing he needs is another stalker.
Very quickly I became caught up in the story, the writing, and the characters, leaving me turning pages as fast as I could. It was soon clear that this wasn’t a case of Deacon’s former manager hiring someone to act as his stalker to generate sympathy and possibly get Deacon’s star back on top (think Jessie Smollett). No, this individual is systematically murdering people – gruesomely I might add – close to Deacon in some way, but the author led me on a chilling path until motive and identity were revealed. Along the journey I found out more about Deacon’s horrible childhood and his vicious mother who blames him for his dad’s beating of her (wtf?). She has made his life hell and with her recent successful custody case for Deacon’s niece, whom his brother named Deacon in his will as who he wanted to care for Molly, Deacon’s mother shows no signs of becoming mother of the year. Ever.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Very quickly I became caught up in the story, the writing, and the characters, leaving me turning pages as fast as I could. It was soon clear that this wasn’t a case of Deacon’s former manager hiring someone to act as his stalker to generate sympathy and possibly get Deacon’s star back on top (think Jessie Smollett). No, this individual is systematically murdering people – gruesomely I might add – close to Deacon in some way, but the author led me on a chilling path until motive and identity were revealed. Along the journey I found out more about Deacon’s horrible childhood and his vicious mother who blames him for his dad’s beating of her (wtf?). She has made his life hell and with her recent successful custody case for Deacon’s niece, whom his brother named Deacon in his will as who he wanted to care for Molly, Deacon’s mother shows no signs of becoming mother of the year. Ever.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
March 21, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
In Safe Hands is a fast paced action thriller that kept me guessing to the very end. With an alternating point of view, as well as occasional forays into the mind of the killer, this novel allows the reader to delve deeply into the minds of Deacon and Mav and how they both have coped with life altering tragedies from their pasts. Wounded, scarred both figuratively and emotionally, Deacon and Mav find solace in each other despite the fact that imminent danger has brought them together. I think Deacon is the most atypical rock star I have ever read about. Not truly invested in furthering a music career, but willing to ride a career that just fell on his shoulders after joining a contest with a few college friends, Deacon rockets to fame only to have it all torn away from him overnight. But it’s not the fame and money that Deacon mourns, it’s the loss of his niece, Molly, who was left to him after his brother Michael died of an overdose that has shattered him. He and Michael had just reconnected after many years apart and his death tore Deacon apart. When a scandal leads Deacon’s mother to gain custody of Molly, Deacon’s world collapses. Now to top it all off, someone is stalking him for real and threatening his life.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
In Safe Hands is a fast paced action thriller that kept me guessing to the very end. With an alternating point of view, as well as occasional forays into the mind of the killer, this novel allows the reader to delve deeply into the minds of Deacon and Mav and how they both have coped with life altering tragedies from their pasts. Wounded, scarred both figuratively and emotionally, Deacon and Mav find solace in each other despite the fact that imminent danger has brought them together. I think Deacon is the most atypical rock star I have ever read about. Not truly invested in furthering a music career, but willing to ride a career that just fell on his shoulders after joining a contest with a few college friends, Deacon rockets to fame only to have it all torn away from him overnight. But it’s not the fame and money that Deacon mourns, it’s the loss of his niece, Molly, who was left to him after his brother Michael died of an overdose that has shattered him. He and Michael had just reconnected after many years apart and his death tore Deacon apart. When a scandal leads Deacon’s mother to gain custody of Molly, Deacon’s world collapses. Now to top it all off, someone is stalking him for real and threatening his life.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
May 18, 2019
Not quite 4 stars, but better than 3.5
I borrowed this one, but I can definitely see myself buying it once I have more money (and maybe if the price comes down just a little bit).
I borrowed this one, but I can definitely see myself buying it once I have more money (and maybe if the price comes down just a little bit).
August 1, 2019
Audiobook review3,5 stars
If I give you the name Maverick and tell you that he’s a (former) pilot, are you getting the same flashbacks as me? ;)
Well, when we first meet Mav he’s far from the dreamy guy you just imagined. His last mission left him scarred in every way imaginable. His looks cause people to stare or turn away, his missing leg is another thing that just adds misery to an already miserable existence. Add a hefty dose of self-pitying alcohol and survivor’s guilt and you might get closer to the Mav we have in this book. He’s not unlikable in any way, he’s just down in the way where you’ll either want to give him a big hug or a swift kick in the behind.
His change comes gradually in the form of his sister asking him to take a meeting in her stead. As she said, all he has to do is sit behind a desk and look half-way competent for the duration. Seeing as he owed said sister a lot he agrees to meet this disgraced former teenage throb of a musician. It doesn’t take long for them to realise that the stalker and story they thought was made up was something far worse, because now there isn’t only threatening notes left on his car. There are dead bodies.
Both Deacon and Mav does a tremendous amount of growing in this short time. Maverick finally accepts the past and his current state. Yes he might be disfigured, he might have only one leg, and yes people might stare, stammer and be just a little bit afraid. But if he just gave them half of a chance he might just realise that the staring and stammering was because of admiration and awe – just like the “kid” selling him a car. As for Deacon, he realised that just because he lost one fight (the custody of his niece) that didn’t mean he needed to stop fighting altogether. There was still hope. As they said they were both down, but neither was out. And not even a serial killer was going to stop them from going after what they wanted.
Michael Pauley… I’m seriously running out of words to describe this guy. If you have any, please give me a shout because I might want to borrow them ;) Anyway he is talented for sure. With a wonderful voice and great pacing he brings Mav and Deacon to life – but also the horrors that follow the latter.
Going back to the kid with selling Mav the car – or rather the remodelling of his current one to fit with his prosthesis. For me that was a moment or meeting that really touched me. Because Pauley and Sue so clearly showed us that something as innocent as a look or lack thereof can be interpreted in so many ways depending on what baggage you are carrying on your back. For Mav it was a rejection due to his scars and lost leg. For the kid (Gah, I can’t remember his name, and I wish I had the print version to look it up, that’s the one negative with audios) Mav was a reminder of the dad he lost in war. A reminder that they sometimes do come home. He was in awe of him. From this rambling you might think this was something huge in the book, but it really wasn’t. It took a few minutes at the most, but it made an impact, on me, but also on Mav. So kudos to Pauley and Sue for truly bringing that to life.
In Safe Hands was a nice story about two lost men finding each other, realising they still had something to fight for. Finding the will and ability to live but more importantly to love.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
March 21, 2019
This was one busy story. The shit that kept hitting the fan could have been toned down, it really should have been pared back.
However, the author also has a nice way with character connection. I actually liked both Deacon and Maverick, although there was one rough patch toward the end where I did not respect Maverick.
You get both MCs POV. Sometimes, not always, it didn't progress the storyline, it could take it back and then (re)deliver part of a previous development from the other MCs eyes - never a favourite style of mine. I prefer to progress the story and move it forward with a dual POV.
You also get the antagonist's POV, without giving away who it was. That was well done.
There were aspects I really liked about this story. I was engaged enough and happy to read right through to the end and see what happened. And, with a few exceptions, I now have a policy of if I don't engage in some way with the writing, the story, the characters, I'm not continuing. It's my personal 'life is too short' reading policy.
The mystery/crime arc was well developed. The author kept me on my toes.
Overall, In Safe Hands was middle of the road reading for me.
However, the author also has a nice way with character connection. I actually liked both Deacon and Maverick, although there was one rough patch toward the end where I did not respect Maverick.
You get both MCs POV. Sometimes, not always, it didn't progress the storyline, it could take it back and then (re)deliver part of a previous development from the other MCs eyes - never a favourite style of mine. I prefer to progress the story and move it forward with a dual POV.
You also get the antagonist's POV, without giving away who it was. That was well done.
There were aspects I really liked about this story. I was engaged enough and happy to read right through to the end and see what happened. And, with a few exceptions, I now have a policy of if I don't engage in some way with the writing, the story, the characters, I'm not continuing. It's my personal 'life is too short' reading policy.
The mystery/crime arc was well developed. The author kept me on my toes.
Overall, In Safe Hands was middle of the road reading for me.
November 15, 2019
In Safe Hands by Victoria Sue
A heroes and babies series M-M romantic suspense.
Maverick’s injuries ended his Air Force career and he hadn’t reconciled the loss until Deacon asks for help and protection.
The storyline includes PTSD, murder, kidnapping, and drug abuse.
The characters grow more responsive and responsible as they get to know and depend on each other. Molly, the baby, is adorable and brings a lighter note to the storyline.
Some unbelievable twists but overall a good read.
A heroes and babies series M-M romantic suspense.
Maverick’s injuries ended his Air Force career and he hadn’t reconciled the loss until Deacon asks for help and protection.
The storyline includes PTSD, murder, kidnapping, and drug abuse.
The characters grow more responsive and responsible as they get to know and depend on each other. Molly, the baby, is adorable and brings a lighter note to the storyline.
Some unbelievable twists but overall a good read.
September 2, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
Not sure how long this has lurked on my kindle but I enjoyed it. The timescale is ridiculous, everything, and I mean everything, happens in a week.
It was blatantly obvious who the bad guy was. But it was entertaining. While it was insta-love, insta-cure for alcoholism... the characters don't fall into bed until halfway point, of course that's only three days, but with everything squished into the time frame it felt like they built up to that.
The characters are interesting. I did wonder if some named where from another series or future books. Phan's grey eyes are of frequent note!
Overall I liked it.
Not sure how long this has lurked on my kindle but I enjoyed it. The timescale is ridiculous, everything, and I mean everything, happens in a week.
It was blatantly obvious who the bad guy was. But it was entertaining. While it was insta-love, insta-cure for alcoholism... the characters don't fall into bed until halfway point, of course that's only three days, but with everything squished into the time frame it felt like they built up to that.
The characters are interesting. I did wonder if some named where from another series or future books. Phan's grey eyes are of frequent note!
Overall I liked it.
March 26, 2019
A very enjoyable read!
Mav was such a lovable character, and the mystery was interesting and little Molly was cute~
Mav was such a lovable character, and the mystery was interesting and little Molly was cute~
Want to read
April 25, 2020🎁 Free on Amazon today (4/25/2020)! 🎁
May 30, 2019
I really enjoyed this romantic, action packed suspense.
Okay now that I've gotten that out of the way - I really loved both Mav and Deacon and the book also had some great secondary characters. There was a lot of character development and depth and although the romance happened quickly it didn't feel unrealistic. The mystery was also written very well and I didn't figure it out until right before a character in the book did. I loved the relationship between Mav and his sister and the one between Deacon and his niece. Although the book touched on depression, losing a limb, alcohol abuse and child abuse it was surprisingly not dark. I think because Mav and Deacon worked so well together and Deacon gave Mav a reason to really move past his drinking and his role as protector helped him combat his depression and Mav made Deacon feel safe. There was also plenty of action throughout the book that kept the pacing moving right along. I really enjoyed this book and this author's writing style and would read more books by her.
Okay now that I've gotten that out of the way - I really loved both Mav and Deacon and the book also had some great secondary characters. There was a lot of character development and depth and although the romance happened quickly it didn't feel unrealistic. The mystery was also written very well and I didn't figure it out until right before a character in the book did. I loved the relationship between Mav and his sister and the one between Deacon and his niece. Although the book touched on depression, losing a limb, alcohol abuse and child abuse it was surprisingly not dark. I think because Mav and Deacon worked so well together and Deacon gave Mav a reason to really move past his drinking and his role as protector helped him combat his depression and Mav made Deacon feel safe. There was also plenty of action throughout the book that kept the pacing moving right along. I really enjoyed this book and this author's writing style and would read more books by her.
July 21, 2019
Have you ever had that nagging feeling at the back of your brain...
You know the one that says 'I've been here before or I've done this before or just generally geez this is really familiar? Well that's what I got when I went to write the review for this story and what it came down to after pondering things for a day is this...
I really enjoy this authors 'Enhanced' series and what I realized was that if we gave Maverick some kind of enhanced ability this story would work very nicely into that series. Which is not to say that I didn't enjoy the story but more that since it isn't a part of the 'Enhanced' series for me it would have been more enjoyable if it hadn't felt like it should have been.
We have Maverick (Mav) Delgardo a strong, heroic, brooding, former soldier who's been injured in the line of duty and bares the physical proof of it. It's only been a few months so he's also still struggling to adjust to the changes this has brought to his life.
When Mav's sister ask for his help with a case in her efforts to get her very fledgling PI business off the ground in spite of his less than stellar mental state Mav knows it's time to man-up, after all it's just for a couple of days to babysit the lead singer of a band that's fallen from grace...really, what could possibly go wrong...one should never ask or even wonder about this.
And if you ask Deacon Daniels, he'll tell you the real question is 'could something, anything possibly go right?' Down on his luck doesn't even begin to explain Deacon's life. It's a grocery list of one bad event after another with the occasional bright spot thrown in just to give him hope and keep him going.
I really, really liked Deacon for me he was the bright spot in this book. Not that he was overly full of sunshine and light but that he was a character who was strong and determined not to let life break him.
Deacon's lost everything, his band, his money and the niece that was entrusted to his care by his deceased brother and now all he's got to show for it all is a stalker who seems to want not only him dead but anyone connected to him and the scandal that destroyed his career.
I liked the relationship that was developing between Mav and Deacon. While it was quick and intense truthfully so was the situation they suddenly realized they were entangled in.
Other than the too strong resemblance to the 'Enhanced' series that this story held for me, the only other thing that was slightly problematical for me was the narration. Michael Pauley was the narrator for this story and this is by no means the first audiobook that I've listened to that was narrated by him...more like number 9 or 10, but be that as it may, this time around the narration wasn't working for me. That's not to say that it was bad just that for whatever reason I wasn't connecting with the voices so this unfortunately also contributed to the lack of connection that I felt with the story.
While I wouldn't exactly call this one a win nor would I call it a total loss...when it comes right down to it...it just wasn't the story for me...another time...who knows it might have gone better.
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An audio book of 'In Safe Hands' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
You know the one that says 'I've been here before or I've done this before or just generally geez this is really familiar? Well that's what I got when I went to write the review for this story and what it came down to after pondering things for a day is this...
I really enjoy this authors 'Enhanced' series and what I realized was that if we gave Maverick some kind of enhanced ability this story would work very nicely into that series. Which is not to say that I didn't enjoy the story but more that since it isn't a part of the 'Enhanced' series for me it would have been more enjoyable if it hadn't felt like it should have been.
We have Maverick (Mav) Delgardo a strong, heroic, brooding, former soldier who's been injured in the line of duty and bares the physical proof of it. It's only been a few months so he's also still struggling to adjust to the changes this has brought to his life.
When Mav's sister ask for his help with a case in her efforts to get her very fledgling PI business off the ground in spite of his less than stellar mental state Mav knows it's time to man-up, after all it's just for a couple of days to babysit the lead singer of a band that's fallen from grace...really, what could possibly go wrong...one should never ask or even wonder about this.
And if you ask Deacon Daniels, he'll tell you the real question is 'could something, anything possibly go right?' Down on his luck doesn't even begin to explain Deacon's life. It's a grocery list of one bad event after another with the occasional bright spot thrown in just to give him hope and keep him going.
I really, really liked Deacon for me he was the bright spot in this book. Not that he was overly full of sunshine and light but that he was a character who was strong and determined not to let life break him.
Deacon's lost everything, his band, his money and the niece that was entrusted to his care by his deceased brother and now all he's got to show for it all is a stalker who seems to want not only him dead but anyone connected to him and the scandal that destroyed his career.
I liked the relationship that was developing between Mav and Deacon. While it was quick and intense truthfully so was the situation they suddenly realized they were entangled in.
Other than the too strong resemblance to the 'Enhanced' series that this story held for me, the only other thing that was slightly problematical for me was the narration. Michael Pauley was the narrator for this story and this is by no means the first audiobook that I've listened to that was narrated by him...more like number 9 or 10, but be that as it may, this time around the narration wasn't working for me. That's not to say that it was bad just that for whatever reason I wasn't connecting with the voices so this unfortunately also contributed to the lack of connection that I felt with the story.
While I wouldn't exactly call this one a win nor would I call it a total loss...when it comes right down to it...it just wasn't the story for me...another time...who knows it might have gone better.
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An audio book of 'In Safe Hands' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2019
There’s so much to enjoy each time I pick up a book by Victoria Sue—depth of character, complexity of story, amazing secondary characters, and a well-planned plot, usually with lots of mystery and drama. This book did not disappoint.
Mav Delgardo can’t seem to come to terms with the loss of his foot and consequently the loss of his career as a USAF helicopter pilot. Wallowing in a bottle, sleeping in his sister’s spare room, it’s not until she needs his help to guard a former musician that he manages to pull himself together. Deacon Daniels (real name Danny) was a teen idol until a scandal resulting in the death of a woman and her child brings his career crashing down. Add to that the fact he’s lost custody of his two-year-old niece, for whom he was named guardian when his brother died, and a stalker is now out to get him, and it’s a wonder the young man doesn’t give up.
Mav is entranced by the real Danny and realizes there’s no way the news reports and gossip sheets have any inkling of what the young man is really like. And Danny sees Mav, beyond the scars on his face and torso and his artificial foot, Danny reacts to the person who cares about others and desperately wants to be needed and find his place in life after the loss of his career. The two become close as those involved in perpetrating the scandal that destroyed Deacon’s career are murdered and the stalking and threats increase.
It’s not until the two start to hope for a brighter future that the situation takes a turn for the worse and it looks like Danny won’t have a future at all if the murderer has his way. I really enjoyed the action in this story. The story was interesting, the characters well-developed, and the mystery intriguing. When the murderer is revealed there was still plenty of action and suspense and I had a hard time putting the book down.
Victoria Sue creates real characters with real feelings. I can rarely stay an arm’s length from getting caught up in their lives. This story is for those who want to experience second chances, hurt-comfort, lots of intrigue, and a couple who deserves a solid future together.
**4.5 stars**
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
Mav Delgardo can’t seem to come to terms with the loss of his foot and consequently the loss of his career as a USAF helicopter pilot. Wallowing in a bottle, sleeping in his sister’s spare room, it’s not until she needs his help to guard a former musician that he manages to pull himself together. Deacon Daniels (real name Danny) was a teen idol until a scandal resulting in the death of a woman and her child brings his career crashing down. Add to that the fact he’s lost custody of his two-year-old niece, for whom he was named guardian when his brother died, and a stalker is now out to get him, and it’s a wonder the young man doesn’t give up.
Mav is entranced by the real Danny and realizes there’s no way the news reports and gossip sheets have any inkling of what the young man is really like. And Danny sees Mav, beyond the scars on his face and torso and his artificial foot, Danny reacts to the person who cares about others and desperately wants to be needed and find his place in life after the loss of his career. The two become close as those involved in perpetrating the scandal that destroyed Deacon’s career are murdered and the stalking and threats increase.
It’s not until the two start to hope for a brighter future that the situation takes a turn for the worse and it looks like Danny won’t have a future at all if the murderer has his way. I really enjoyed the action in this story. The story was interesting, the characters well-developed, and the mystery intriguing. When the murderer is revealed there was still plenty of action and suspense and I had a hard time putting the book down.
Victoria Sue creates real characters with real feelings. I can rarely stay an arm’s length from getting caught up in their lives. This story is for those who want to experience second chances, hurt-comfort, lots of intrigue, and a couple who deserves a solid future together.
**4.5 stars**
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
March 5, 2019
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤4.5 in safe hands stars.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
When his sister could not provide her latest client with protection, injured former Air Force pilot Maverick found himself filling the role. Despite not wanting the pity and the looks, Maverick knew he would be of little help for the former rock star who was only looking for a second chance.
He'd lost his career thanks to a fame grabbing reporter, then he'd lost his brother. The last straw was losing custody of his beloved niece. But, what more could Deacon do when a stalker was after him and due to being accused one time prior, no one seemed to believe him this time. Finding protection was his only way and it seemed there was one man for the job.
The interest was there from the first line of the blurb and though the story started off slowly for me, I enjoyed the the suspense and mystery of it all. There was romance, and Maverick's and Deacon's passion could be felt almost from on meeting. This who-dun-nit kept my attention and there was an undertone of familial problems that I am glad was resolved and every twist and turn held such excitement. The secondary characters truly added to the story and I can see another story set in this universe. Fantastic read and I can say that yes I would recommend it to anyone who has discovered the author Victoria Sue and her unique style of storytelling.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤4.5 in safe hands stars.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
When his sister could not provide her latest client with protection, injured former Air Force pilot Maverick found himself filling the role. Despite not wanting the pity and the looks, Maverick knew he would be of little help for the former rock star who was only looking for a second chance.
He'd lost his career thanks to a fame grabbing reporter, then he'd lost his brother. The last straw was losing custody of his beloved niece. But, what more could Deacon do when a stalker was after him and due to being accused one time prior, no one seemed to believe him this time. Finding protection was his only way and it seemed there was one man for the job.
The interest was there from the first line of the blurb and though the story started off slowly for me, I enjoyed the the suspense and mystery of it all. There was romance, and Maverick's and Deacon's passion could be felt almost from on meeting. This who-dun-nit kept my attention and there was an undertone of familial problems that I am glad was resolved and every twist and turn held such excitement. The secondary characters truly added to the story and I can see another story set in this universe. Fantastic read and I can say that yes I would recommend it to anyone who has discovered the author Victoria Sue and her unique style of storytelling.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
March 19, 2019
Wow, the suspense and angst in this one was enough to give me a few more gray hairs.
Maverick Delgardo is retired from the Air Force after an accident left him unfit for duty. An amputee and disfigured from the fire, when we meet him, he’s still not coping, sleeping on his sister’s couch and drinking til he forgets all he lost… which was more than just his leg.
Deacon Daniel’s used to be a heartthrob lead singer, but all that went to dirt when a bad manager, a scandal and his mother got involved. Let me tell you right now, his mother is the epitome of the worst person alive, and I’d have rather seen her die than spend an extra minute trying to find the real killer. Dramatic? Sure… but the woman was evil, through and through. She got off lucky as far as I’m concerned. I actually spent the whole book thinking she had something to do with everything that was happening, so I was kind of bummed she didn’t get the karmic smack she deserved.
ANYWAY… So, as Mav’s sister used to be a cop but was now running a process serving business that was supposed to be a security firm as well back before her husband ran off with a younger woman… she decided to take on a desperate client who at first just had a stalker…that stalker turned deadly though and everyone Deacon had any dealings with started dropping like flies…. Giving Maverick a reason to get up off the couch and stop wasting his life feeling sorry for himself…
He wanted to keep Deacon safe, of course, he did… especially when he knew that he came with a little girl, who I absolutely fell in love with, because I’m such a sucker for hot guys with kids, and she was so precious. I really felt for her, having lost both her parents and then the one person who cared about her because of her grandmother…. (don’t go on another tangent about the mother….) So, it was cute to see these two tiptoe around each other at first, but then, even as Deacon had nothing really to offer, he had no money, no life and virtually destitute at the moment, he came into his inner spitfire and didn’t let Mac push him away…. Loved that!
Now, the only problem I had with this story was all the coincidences Literally, everyone in this story was connected somehow. I was floored when I found out who the killer was, but then he knew literally everyone and it stemmed back years and years! How? It was random that Deacon got referred to Jamie (Mav’s sister), and who knew that Mav would even be there? But it had nothing to do with Mav, it was all about Deacon… I dunno, while the plotline itself was a good one and I gasped with a nooooo way…. The rest of it just seemed too far fetched. Like, it didn’t need all the added coincidences, you had enough with just that. I won’t give it away, obviously, who the killer is… but I hope you’re as surprised as I was! It’s most definitely worth the read. A bit pricey for me, for a kindle book, but it’ll definitely get your blood pumpin…
I also thought the clause at the end, when the killer threatens Mav to stay away from Deacon and his baby was ridiculous… like it was his one last effort to make Deacon unhappy, and Mav just complies with it? Uhm, no… the dude was going to prison and you have all these cop friends and contacts… you can’t make sure that the killer doesn’t cause any more trouble from prison?? That whole thing just seemed unnecessary, I’m glad it didn’t last long!
Other than that, it was a suspenseful and angsty read and I feel like I need a nap after reading it, just my heart can go back to beating in its normal rhythm for a while….
4 stars from me!
Maverick Delgardo is retired from the Air Force after an accident left him unfit for duty. An amputee and disfigured from the fire, when we meet him, he’s still not coping, sleeping on his sister’s couch and drinking til he forgets all he lost… which was more than just his leg.
Deacon Daniel’s used to be a heartthrob lead singer, but all that went to dirt when a bad manager, a scandal and his mother got involved. Let me tell you right now, his mother is the epitome of the worst person alive, and I’d have rather seen her die than spend an extra minute trying to find the real killer. Dramatic? Sure… but the woman was evil, through and through. She got off lucky as far as I’m concerned. I actually spent the whole book thinking she had something to do with everything that was happening, so I was kind of bummed she didn’t get the karmic smack she deserved.
ANYWAY… So, as Mav’s sister used to be a cop but was now running a process serving business that was supposed to be a security firm as well back before her husband ran off with a younger woman… she decided to take on a desperate client who at first just had a stalker…that stalker turned deadly though and everyone Deacon had any dealings with started dropping like flies…. Giving Maverick a reason to get up off the couch and stop wasting his life feeling sorry for himself…
He wanted to keep Deacon safe, of course, he did… especially when he knew that he came with a little girl, who I absolutely fell in love with, because I’m such a sucker for hot guys with kids, and she was so precious. I really felt for her, having lost both her parents and then the one person who cared about her because of her grandmother…. (don’t go on another tangent about the mother….) So, it was cute to see these two tiptoe around each other at first, but then, even as Deacon had nothing really to offer, he had no money, no life and virtually destitute at the moment, he came into his inner spitfire and didn’t let Mac push him away…. Loved that!
Now, the only problem I had with this story was all the coincidences Literally, everyone in this story was connected somehow. I was floored when I found out who the killer was, but then he knew literally everyone and it stemmed back years and years! How? It was random that Deacon got referred to Jamie (Mav’s sister), and who knew that Mav would even be there? But it had nothing to do with Mav, it was all about Deacon… I dunno, while the plotline itself was a good one and I gasped with a nooooo way…. The rest of it just seemed too far fetched. Like, it didn’t need all the added coincidences, you had enough with just that. I won’t give it away, obviously, who the killer is… but I hope you’re as surprised as I was! It’s most definitely worth the read. A bit pricey for me, for a kindle book, but it’ll definitely get your blood pumpin…
I also thought the clause at the end, when the killer threatens Mav to stay away from Deacon and his baby was ridiculous… like it was his one last effort to make Deacon unhappy, and Mav just complies with it? Uhm, no… the dude was going to prison and you have all these cop friends and contacts… you can’t make sure that the killer doesn’t cause any more trouble from prison?? That whole thing just seemed unnecessary, I’m glad it didn’t last long!
Other than that, it was a suspenseful and angsty read and I feel like I need a nap after reading it, just my heart can go back to beating in its normal rhythm for a while….
4 stars from me!
March 15, 2020
Maverick's Air Force career is in tatters. He's got scars both internally and externally, and he's in a spiral. Until his sister asks him to meet with someone who could become his client. Will Maverick take on the protection of once rising musician, Deacon? Will they both find healing with each other?
I liked both Maverick and Deacon, but there was so much happening that I got a bit lost and started skimming. I do think they had a great connection, though, so if all the stuff happening had been scaled back a lot, and not packed into such a short time, I think I would have ended up liking this one more.
ARC via GRR/LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
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March 5, 2019
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-1/2-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
I honestly believe Jay Aheer is incapable of creating a cover that is less-than visually stunning. The cover composition is as exciting as the plot. While I’ve promoted Victoria Sue a time or two, this is the first of her books I’ve read and reviewed.
POV ~> Third-person
Mav served in the Air Force until a suicide bomber took several lives and left him medically discharged. Since the incident, he’s done nothing more than wallow in self-pity over being an amputee.
That changes the day his sister takes on a disgraced rock star who feels he has a stalker but winds up sidelined herself, essentially leaving Mav to take Deacon on.
Mav quickly discovers and concludes that Deacon is not some pampered airhead and believes there is a serious threat. A broke and washed up rock star and a disabled Air Force veteran just may make the most unlikely pairing, but neither will allow it to be any other way.
Strong and smart lead characters are aided by a varied secondary cast to love and hate. I’d actually pinned the suspect about two-thirds of the way through but did not make the full connection of the how/why until it was revealed. Yay, how exciting this was!
Loose ends were tied up pretty neatly and the leads were given an implied HEA that was solid enough to be satisfying.
I really enjoyed this story and will look for more from this author!
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.45 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
I honestly believe Jay Aheer is incapable of creating a cover that is less-than visually stunning. The cover composition is as exciting as the plot. While I’ve promoted Victoria Sue a time or two, this is the first of her books I’ve read and reviewed.
POV ~> Third-person
Mav served in the Air Force until a suicide bomber took several lives and left him medically discharged. Since the incident, he’s done nothing more than wallow in self-pity over being an amputee.
That changes the day his sister takes on a disgraced rock star who feels he has a stalker but winds up sidelined herself, essentially leaving Mav to take Deacon on.
Mav quickly discovers and concludes that Deacon is not some pampered airhead and believes there is a serious threat. A broke and washed up rock star and a disabled Air Force veteran just may make the most unlikely pairing, but neither will allow it to be any other way.
Strong and smart lead characters are aided by a varied secondary cast to love and hate. I’d actually pinned the suspect about two-thirds of the way through but did not make the full connection of the how/why until it was revealed. Yay, how exciting this was!
Loose ends were tied up pretty neatly and the leads were given an implied HEA that was solid enough to be satisfying.
I really enjoyed this story and will look for more from this author!
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.45 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
Read
August 1, 2021Oh my god, this was an amazing book! I devoured it. Deacon and Mav are perfect together. And oh, poor Maverick, but I mean really are we surprised he flew helicopters with a name like that? Really worth the read. And maybe several more to see if I can find any hidden clues. Because that ending, whoo boy. Was it a doozy.
October 21, 2020
Took a wee while but I worked out the perpetrator before he was revealed. A good mystery that could have easily been very dark and gruesome but thankfully the author managed to keep it on the lighter side. I liked both MCs and loved how they meshed together to help each other out.
February 12, 2019
I really enjoyed this! There was a great balance of mystery/suspense and romance that kept me turning the pages until I was done. I really loved the 2 MCs and the title of this book perfectly describes both of them and their needs rather than just one of them.
If you’re looking for a tender relationship along with a suspenseful plot then I recommend checking out this book!
4 STARS
If you’re looking for a tender relationship along with a suspenseful plot then I recommend checking out this book!
4 STARS
May 1, 2020
I’ve read this author before. This is a mm contemporary story. Main characters are Mav an ex military helicopter pilot who has sustained terrible face and leg injuries and Deacon a disgraced band singer. This is a murder mystery book. Great side characters. I’ll read more from this author
June 30, 2024
"In Safe Hands" by Victoria Sue was an enjoyable read. Maverick (Mav) was a pilot for the Air Force, but an accident left him injured and out of the Air Force. His sister, Jamie, asks him to do a protective service for Deacon. Deacon was the lead singer for the band "Six Sundays," but the band has gone under due to a supposed scandal. Deacon finds himself with a murderous stalker killing people around him. The stalker breaks into Deacons apartment and trashes it, and leaves him a message. Mav has Deacon come and stay with him and his sister so he can keep his eye on him. While Mav is protecting Deacon, he starts to have feelings for him. One of my favorite parts is when Deacon forgot to put a pull-up on his 2 year old niece, Molly, and she happens to pee on Mav. I enjoy Victoria's writing style and will read other books by her.
October 19, 2020
I loved Mav and Deacon together. Both men were broken down by life and more than a little lost. I enjoyed seeing them have each other's support even though they were going through vastly different circumstances. Deacon's relationship and love for his niece was also very endearing. My favorite part of the story was the mystery and suspense. There was so much going on, but I enjoyed the twists and turns.
August 20, 2020
DNF @50%
I was already done way before 50% but I pushed through. The amount of “shit hitting the fan” that the author pushes at us its INSANE for such a short book. Don’t get me wrong, I like my angst but on this book is never ending. Problem after problem after problem and I was tired and done of the repetitive cicle.
I didn’t feel the supposed connection and affection between the MCs. Ever. 50% in and I wasn’t feeling it. At certain points they felt like siblings or best friends to me. It is a bit insta-lovey but its not so in your face like other books.
I didn’t connect with ANY character at all and that’s bad. My emotions were a void while reading this book because I was busy navigating through the shitload of problems the author decided to throw... constantly without break.
I have a vague idea about who the killer/stalker is but I am not 100% sure. If you read this review, please spoil me that one detail so that I can feel better about myself. I think its the father of the baby that was inside the car when that woman ran her own car off the road. Correct me if I am wrong tho!
I was already done way before 50% but I pushed through. The amount of “shit hitting the fan” that the author pushes at us its INSANE for such a short book. Don’t get me wrong, I like my angst but on this book is never ending. Problem after problem after problem and I was tired and done of the repetitive cicle.
I didn’t feel the supposed connection and affection between the MCs. Ever. 50% in and I wasn’t feeling it. At certain points they felt like siblings or best friends to me. It is a bit insta-lovey but its not so in your face like other books.
I didn’t connect with ANY character at all and that’s bad. My emotions were a void while reading this book because I was busy navigating through the shitload of problems the author decided to throw... constantly without break.
I have a vague idea about who the killer/stalker is but I am not 100% sure. If you read this review, please spoil me that one detail so that I can feel better about myself. I think its the father of the baby that was inside the car when that woman ran her own car off the road. Correct me if I am wrong tho!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2020
Two point five rounded. Long, way too long. So long that I fell asleep during the final denouement and it wasn’t until a day later I remembered I didn’t finish it.
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