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J.J. Graves Mystery #9
Playing Dirty
J.J. Graves and her husband, Sheriff Jack Lawson, are sworn to protect and serve. The Christmas season brings out the best—and worst—in people, and death hits close to home when a Bloody Mary local is murdered. Bringing justice to the dead is what they do—even when they don’t like the victim.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2020
482 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Liliana Hart
207 books3,307 followersLiliana Hart spent five years teaching music in the public education system. She molded America’s youth, busted kids for smoking pot in the restrooms, and broke up illicit affairs behind the stage on a regular basis. (Liliana’s Addison Holmes Mystery Series, about a small town teacher who gets into a whole lot of trouble, is somewhat autobiographical, but she won’t confess to which parts).
Liliana began reading romance novels with all her new found free time, and when she ran out of things to read, she decided to write her own novels. The result was a 150,000 word thriller—a dazzling adventure—where the heroine was a thirty-year-old virgin assassin (Yes, you read that right). She couldn’t imagine why people weren’t knocking down her door to read it, but she persevered and began writing a second book. She finally got the hang of things, and eventually learned that losing one’s virginity wasn’t all that romantic after all. All of her books involve some kind of suspense (she just can't help herself), laughter, and a lot of steamy sex.
Since the failure of her first attempt, Liliana’s books have won awards such as: The Daphne Du Maurier, The Suzannah, The Linda Howard Award of Excellence, The Maggie, and many others. Her affiliations include Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Liliana loves to cook, and is addicted to reading, Internet Boggle, kickboxing, and Bones. She lives in a big, rambling house in Texas with a couple of cats to keep her company. She loves to get emails from readers.
Enjoy the Adventures!
Liliana began reading romance novels with all her new found free time, and when she ran out of things to read, she decided to write her own novels. The result was a 150,000 word thriller—a dazzling adventure—where the heroine was a thirty-year-old virgin assassin (Yes, you read that right). She couldn’t imagine why people weren’t knocking down her door to read it, but she persevered and began writing a second book. She finally got the hang of things, and eventually learned that losing one’s virginity wasn’t all that romantic after all. All of her books involve some kind of suspense (she just can't help herself), laughter, and a lot of steamy sex.
Since the failure of her first attempt, Liliana’s books have won awards such as: The Daphne Du Maurier, The Suzannah, The Linda Howard Award of Excellence, The Maggie, and many others. Her affiliations include Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Liliana loves to cook, and is addicted to reading, Internet Boggle, kickboxing, and Bones. She lives in a big, rambling house in Texas with a couple of cats to keep her company. She loves to get emails from readers.
Enjoy the Adventures!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 23, 2021
3.5 stars
Not the best or my fave in the series. I expected a little more depth - this felt like filler. Hope the next one is better.
Not the best or my fave in the series. I expected a little more depth - this felt like filler. Hope the next one is better.
March 9, 2021
I do enjoy this series.
December 9, 2020
I STILL absolutely love this series! My heroes have gone through so much and I hope we’ll see J.J. and Jake have a baby soon, I swear I was hoping that little bombshell would drop in this book but nope. Not yet anyway! (Still keeping my fingers crossed!)
I love that their love for each other grows more and more with each case, and how the bad guys they’re taking down are bigger and bigger every time. I STILL can’t wait for MORE!!!🤩❤️
I love that their love for each other grows more and more with each case, and how the bad guys they’re taking down are bigger and bigger every time. I STILL can’t wait for MORE!!!🤩❤️
March 26, 2021
What a relief. After finishing installment number 8 in this series, I dreaded and even questioned reading Playing Dirty. I hesitated needlessly. A long time secret Jack has kept only between himself and J.J. is suddenly out in the open, and oddly enough, we never find out how this secret got out! The sheriff's election day is close, and now it appears Jack may not win the election. Karma strikes, and Jack's opponent confesses to hitting a bicyclist one dark foggy morning. The back and forth of weird, chaotic happenings kept me guessing until the last quarter. Intense read until the end, and I have already pre-ordered Dirty Martini.
December 2, 2020
Playing Dirty
Absolutely love these J.J. Graves mysteries. In this one Jack and J.J. kept me turning pages as fast as I could read. Found myself practically holding my breath at times, so not good for someone on oxygen. LOL The story, the characters, everything was great and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
Absolutely love these J.J. Graves mysteries. In this one Jack and J.J. kept me turning pages as fast as I could read. Found myself practically holding my breath at times, so not good for someone on oxygen. LOL The story, the characters, everything was great and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
April 1, 2021
4.50 / 4 Stars
I'm still really enjoying the J.J. Graves series!! This one had me on an emotional rollercoaster. From laughter at the funeral home with J.J.'s crew, to the emotional toll J.J. and Jack are going through in regards to their relationship. Then there's the conspiracy to make sure Jack losses the Sheriff's race. Lots going on......
I'm still really enjoying the J.J. Graves series!! This one had me on an emotional rollercoaster. From laughter at the funeral home with J.J.'s crew, to the emotional toll J.J. and Jack are going through in regards to their relationship. Then there's the conspiracy to make sure Jack losses the Sheriff's race. Lots going on......
December 3, 2020
I have been in a reading slump. I literally read this book in 3 hours. First I gotta say I needed to read since how annoyed I was at the end of last book. LOL
That being said the book was fast paced and intricately weaved into a much deeper story line. I could not put this book down. The story was complicated but yet not. And as usual I loved the dynamics of all the characters in this series. Looking forward to the next.
That being said the book was fast paced and intricately weaved into a much deeper story line. I could not put this book down. The story was complicated but yet not. And as usual I loved the dynamics of all the characters in this series. Looking forward to the next.
September 6, 2023
Playing Dirty on Books On Track
RTC
Previous books:
✦ Dirty Devil (J.J. Graves Mystery #8) ~ ★★★★ (03/08/2023)
✦ A Dirty Job (J.J. Graves Mystery #7) ~ ★★★★ (03/08/2023)
✦ Dirty Money (J.J. Graves Mystery #6) ~ ★★★★ (03/08/2023)
✦ Dirty Laundry (J.J. Graves Mystery, #5) ~ ★★★★ (02/08/2023)
✦ Dirty Deeds (J.J. Graves Mystery #4.5) ~ ★★★★ (01/08/2023)
✦ Down and Dirty (J.J. Graves Mystery, #4) ~ ★★★★ (31/07/2023)
✦ Dirty Rotten Scoundrel (J.J. Graves Mystery #3) ~ ★★★★ (31/07/2023)
✦ A Dirty Shame (J.J. Graves Mystery, #2) ~ ★★★★ (30/07/2023)
✦ Dirty Little Secrets (J.J. Graves Mystery, #1) ~ ★★★★ (30/07/2023)
February 21, 2024
While angry with each other, Jaye and Jack work a death that at first appears to be an accident when a cyclist is hit by a car. They’re also feeling the pressure of the election for sheriff, with Jack facing Floyd.
Jaye uncovers the truth, that the victim had amphetamines in his system, meaning he might have been murdered. After talking to his wife, it further confirms her suspicions.
Meanwhile, during a ride the cycle club is on, Vaughan blows a tire, and again, it’s found to be sabotaged. Other things are also going wrong, making Jack suspect he’s being kept busy and distracted by things happening to those he cares about.
As the election draws closer, it comes to light that there’s a contingent that wants a federal prison to be built in King George, which Jack refused, angering those wanting to make a lot of money from the project.
With help from Carver, the plot becomes clearer, as do the players, and at the last minute, Jack and J.J. race to save yet another cyclist from being killed.
Overcoming their argument and getting through the election, there’s likely more to deal with in stopping the corrupt company wanting to build the prison.
Such interesting stories in this series, with twists that make it hard to figure things out, and often bigger forces at play.
A great story in this series.
Jaye uncovers the truth, that the victim had amphetamines in his system, meaning he might have been murdered. After talking to his wife, it further confirms her suspicions.
Meanwhile, during a ride the cycle club is on, Vaughan blows a tire, and again, it’s found to be sabotaged. Other things are also going wrong, making Jack suspect he’s being kept busy and distracted by things happening to those he cares about.
As the election draws closer, it comes to light that there’s a contingent that wants a federal prison to be built in King George, which Jack refused, angering those wanting to make a lot of money from the project.
With help from Carver, the plot becomes clearer, as do the players, and at the last minute, Jack and J.J. race to save yet another cyclist from being killed.
Overcoming their argument and getting through the election, there’s likely more to deal with in stopping the corrupt company wanting to build the prison.
Such interesting stories in this series, with twists that make it hard to figure things out, and often bigger forces at play.
A great story in this series.
December 7, 2020
Oh were to start with my love for this series!! It’s been a long time love with JJ and Jack and it’s still growing with each and every book.. now I’d like to say I stood solid after the ending of the last book but... lol I was pissed at Jack and even though he realized what a total idiot he had been the second Jaye walked out the door those words can never ever be taken back and that made me sad then really angry!!!
And no even after this amazingly awesome story all is not forgiven in my heart Jack hurt Jaye so I’m still holding back a bit but I have to say I am super proud of Jaye and how she handled the whole situation and Jack idiocy but I’m still gonna hold a grudge against Jack a bit longer...lol
Now the mystery!!! That was bloody awesome, no seriously a cyclist dead on the side of the road in what appeared to be a hit and run but at closer inspection was anything but... so then why does someone who is a bigger douche than Jack admit to being the driver of the hit and run... and the twists just keep coming, the mystery is puzzling and the murderer is a surprise... I loved it even though I’m still pissed at Jack it did redeem himself a little by the end of the book so Lilana Hart keep them coming.
And no even after this amazingly awesome story all is not forgiven in my heart Jack hurt Jaye so I’m still holding back a bit but I have to say I am super proud of Jaye and how she handled the whole situation and Jack idiocy but I’m still gonna hold a grudge against Jack a bit longer...lol
Now the mystery!!! That was bloody awesome, no seriously a cyclist dead on the side of the road in what appeared to be a hit and run but at closer inspection was anything but... so then why does someone who is a bigger douche than Jack admit to being the driver of the hit and run... and the twists just keep coming, the mystery is puzzling and the murderer is a surprise... I loved it even though I’m still pissed at Jack it did redeem himself a little by the end of the book so Lilana Hart keep them coming.
December 7, 2020
I have read all of JJ. Graves books, and I was so nervous about picking up the latest release. Like I do not want Liliana Hart destroying my all-time favorite couple. It will destroy everything but I had to know how JJ and her husband Jack were going to pull through after the latest betrayal.
I will not go into much details but I do not want to spoil anything. But I got to say that Liliana Hart had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. She did not rush anything which was such a relief because sometimes the author will rush the betrayal process but she did not. She gave us real emotions whenever someone faced betrayal in their life. I absolutely love it because we get to see more of JJ's vulnerable side. She has so much faith in Jack that she never expected it from him. It takes a toll on her and us too. And Jack, I do not have many words for you but you definitely need to watch yourself. Seriously.
I know some of you won't rush to read it because you don't want to be crushed. But I will let you in a secret, there is hope. That's all I have to say.
I will not go into much details but I do not want to spoil anything. But I got to say that Liliana Hart had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. She did not rush anything which was such a relief because sometimes the author will rush the betrayal process but she did not. She gave us real emotions whenever someone faced betrayal in their life. I absolutely love it because we get to see more of JJ's vulnerable side. She has so much faith in Jack that she never expected it from him. It takes a toll on her and us too. And Jack, I do not have many words for you but you definitely need to watch yourself. Seriously.
I know some of you won't rush to read it because you don't want to be crushed. But I will let you in a secret, there is hope. That's all I have to say.
June 1, 2021
A Good Tale of Political Intrigue
This is a good mystery whodunit surrounded by political intrigue. But the whole Jack/JJ thing from the ending of the last book still ticks me off and it’s too easily glossed over here. I don’t think it was necessary and it was a heap stunt. An author this good doesn’t need something like that. And it’s really unfair to characters that have the backgrounds these MCs do.
The mystery here is full of political connections and the ending is very disappointing as we don’t see the repercussions of those actions. I’m particularly disappointed that there’s no mention of the reactions to the resolution of the case. And some of the actions just don’t make sense to me in a small town with a founding family connection. There’s no way that whole country club thing goes down like that. It’s unrealistic.
I really liked the whole money in politics, lobbyists, etc storyline as it’s a great one in this political climate but there are plot points that really could have been better thought out.
This is a good mystery whodunit surrounded by political intrigue. But the whole Jack/JJ thing from the ending of the last book still ticks me off and it’s too easily glossed over here. I don’t think it was necessary and it was a heap stunt. An author this good doesn’t need something like that. And it’s really unfair to characters that have the backgrounds these MCs do.
The mystery here is full of political connections and the ending is very disappointing as we don’t see the repercussions of those actions. I’m particularly disappointed that there’s no mention of the reactions to the resolution of the case. And some of the actions just don’t make sense to me in a small town with a founding family connection. There’s no way that whole country club thing goes down like that. It’s unrealistic.
I really liked the whole money in politics, lobbyists, etc storyline as it’s a great one in this political climate but there are plot points that really could have been better thought out.
January 16, 2021
I was anxious to read this installment after the cliffhanger in the last book. Jack and JJ are two characters that I really love. So, this one hurt a little to read. I will say that I love that they ended up having real and honest communications along with some of their normal witty repartee. There were two major issues going on. One was the election. The second was the death of a cyclist. It turns out someone I love to hate, hit the cyclist. But, is that what caused his death. When looking into the murder, they find that someone close to them was the intended target. Jack begins to realize that everyone around him is suffering and his attention to the election is fractured because of it. The murder is settled satisfactorily and we get the election results. I can't help but think that the events in this book will have impact in future books. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jack and Jaye.
December 1, 2020
J J and Jack rule!
Playing Dirty rocks!!! I love how the story sucks you in and makes your heart beat a little faster your palms sweat as you get closer to finding out who the killer is!! The best part really though is the writing of JJ and Jack - there connection is bone deep and as JJ said it a number of times “we are stronger together than apart”. Jack’s emotions , the anguish during his apology brought tears to my eyes and when JJ broke down in the car it was all I could do not to ugly cry myself - I waited up past midnight to get this book I was so anxious but this story more than satisfied and I can’t wait for the next book!!!
Playing Dirty rocks!!! I love how the story sucks you in and makes your heart beat a little faster your palms sweat as you get closer to finding out who the killer is!! The best part really though is the writing of JJ and Jack - there connection is bone deep and as JJ said it a number of times “we are stronger together than apart”. Jack’s emotions , the anguish during his apology brought tears to my eyes and when JJ broke down in the car it was all I could do not to ugly cry myself - I waited up past midnight to get this book I was so anxious but this story more than satisfied and I can’t wait for the next book!!!
December 9, 2020
JJ and Jack are blindsided when his son is revealed just before the election. Together they are a force seeking the truth. And, the truth not only gets an innocent man killed, it affects everyone around Jack. Its up to JJ and Jack to uncover the truth and find the killer before some one else is hurt. This is a fun read, you cheer for JJ and Jack, while wanting to slap sense into Jack at the same time. You don't get a clear picture of the killer until the very end. And, then you have to wonder who isn't going home that night.
December 11, 2020
I genuinely feel terrible having to give this book only 2 stars. As a committed JJ Graves fan this book was probably the worst of the series. A rushed plot with almost no intrigue, this installment left a lot to be desired. There was so much that Hart had to work with: JJ's feelings about the split, Jack's lovechild that was given all of 3 sentences in the whole book, the election rigging concept, it was opportunity upon opportunity and not a single one was taken. Really hoping she gets back to it in Dirty Martini because this was just not good enough.
December 28, 2020
Book: Playing Dirty (JJ Graves #10) by Lilian Hart
Book 154 for the year
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Time to Read: 2 Days
How Did I Get It? Digital Version via Kindle
Mini Review: Coroner JJ Graves and Sheriff Jack Lawson must put their troubles aside to solve who killed the bike rider.
This is the tenth book in the JJ Graves series. The last book ended on a cliff hanger that I felt was unnecessary and after a few pages in this book was completely unnecessary. I liked the crime and getting to see some of the peripheral characters but the drama leftover from book 9 made me frustrated in this book. Will I read book 11? Absolutely but I won’t read it as soon as it’s published.
Book 154 for the year
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Time to Read: 2 Days
How Did I Get It? Digital Version via Kindle
Mini Review: Coroner JJ Graves and Sheriff Jack Lawson must put their troubles aside to solve who killed the bike rider.
This is the tenth book in the JJ Graves series. The last book ended on a cliff hanger that I felt was unnecessary and after a few pages in this book was completely unnecessary. I liked the crime and getting to see some of the peripheral characters but the drama leftover from book 9 made me frustrated in this book. Will I read book 11? Absolutely but I won’t read it as soon as it’s published.
March 8, 2025
3.5. Still lots of grammar errors and continuity issues which are annoying, but it’s still a good read. I feel like the author makes memories, jobs, backgrounds etc.. to fit how she wants to make readers feel, so they change depending that, which is annoying. I also feel like that cliffhanger in the previous book was just manufactured drama, it was not talked about except for maybe 1 sentence in the beginning. The ending with killer seemed a bit over the top as well. Overall though I really like Jack and JJ and their friends so I’ll keep reading.
December 9, 2020
Playing Dirty is a Non-Stop Page Turner
Play Dirty is so fascinating you won’t want to put it down. So pick it up and get started. If you haven’t already read a book from the JJ Graves series then hurry up a grab one. Each book gets better and better. Each book is a wonderful standalone story in it’s own right. Through the series you will become personally attached to repeat characters as the series builds. Hurry you don’t know what your missing.
Play Dirty is so fascinating you won’t want to put it down. So pick it up and get started. If you haven’t already read a book from the JJ Graves series then hurry up a grab one. Each book gets better and better. Each book is a wonderful standalone story in it’s own right. Through the series you will become personally attached to repeat characters as the series builds. Hurry you don’t know what your missing.
December 31, 2020
Go JJ and Jack!!♥️💙
I've loved every one of the books in this series and Playing Dirty is the best yet. "Seeing" JJ and Jack work through their personal angst, alongside solving a murder, gripped me all the way. Lilliana creates a marvellous blend of suspense, twists and turns, and humorous interludes that captures the reader completely. Can't wait for the next instalment. X
I've loved every one of the books in this series and Playing Dirty is the best yet. "Seeing" JJ and Jack work through their personal angst, alongside solving a murder, gripped me all the way. Lilliana creates a marvellous blend of suspense, twists and turns, and humorous interludes that captures the reader completely. Can't wait for the next instalment. X
February 6, 2021
Another fantastic instalment in the JJ Graves series. From the first page to the last, I was on the edge of my seat with every turn of the page. This series is fantastic, with great characters and brilliant stories filled with many twists and turns, some laugh out loud moments and plenty of love for family and friends, especially the “hot” sheriff Lawson. I can’t wait to find out what JJ and Jack get up to in the next book.
March 8, 2023
The aftermath of the dirty tricks that Floyd keeps using against Jack and Jaye are getting more and more extreme. Can Jack still win as sheriff? Can JJ and Jack find their way back together without irreparable damage done to their marriage? This time it seems as if all could be lost and this mystery is surrounded by all kinds of political and family connections, it will be interesting to see where it takes us next.
February 2, 2025
This was somewhat reminiscent of current events on a much smaller scale in a much smaller political arena. The money strong arm moves, deception, and corruption were the focus of Jack and JJ's case in this book.
I was glad the book didn't drag out Jack and JJ's relationship issue too long. I was also left with the feeling that Jack's youthful indiscretion will rear its head in some form further down the road.
I was glad the book didn't drag out Jack and JJ's relationship issue too long. I was also left with the feeling that Jack's youthful indiscretion will rear its head in some form further down the road.
December 7, 2020
Love overcomes all
Don't miss this one? Just days before the election, will Jack Lawson be too distracted to win, when someone is coming after him? When a simple hit and run turns to murder. See how JJ Graves reveals want truly happens to the victims. Dr. Graves and the Sheriff try to find the real murder in their town. Love this series well done, can't wait for next one.
Don't miss this one? Just days before the election, will Jack Lawson be too distracted to win, when someone is coming after him? When a simple hit and run turns to murder. See how JJ Graves reveals want truly happens to the victims. Dr. Graves and the Sheriff try to find the real murder in their town. Love this series well done, can't wait for next one.
December 8, 2020
Election woes
Another great installment in this series! In spite of some trust issues, JJ and Jack work together to solve a murder and the identity of the people trying to sabotage his re-election as sheriff. Carver and Magnolia make an appearance, which is always amusing as well as helpful. Highly recommended.
Another great installment in this series! In spite of some trust issues, JJ and Jack work together to solve a murder and the identity of the people trying to sabotage his re-election as sheriff. Carver and Magnolia make an appearance, which is always amusing as well as helpful. Highly recommended.
January 9, 2021
I don't know what it is about these books but they can always pull me right out of a slump and quick. If I hadn't needed to be an adult I probably would have finished this in one sitting. My only issue was that there was a big build up and then it just sort of ended. Not a huge issue but would have liked a little more at the end.
January 17, 2021
I waited several long months for this book to be released and was not very happy with the cliffhanger ending of the previous book. But now that we've arrived and things have progressed I'm recovering. I don't think Lilliana needs to hook us so we will keep reading, just keep the story flowing and we'll be here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2021
Love the relationship between Jack and JJ. They play well together but also have to deal with outside influences. This one stymies them with the murder victim. Who was really the target? Who was playing dirty tricks in this sheriff race and who was being played? And does Carver come to the rescue again?
April 29, 2021
Great book!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!! I think it was one of your best!! Only one thing as a retired phlebotomy I just wanted to tell you that checking for alcohol you don't use a alcohol pad to clean the area as that can affect the results!! You use betadyn!! Can't wait for the next book and please finish #12 before December!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!! I think it was one of your best!! Only one thing as a retired phlebotomy I just wanted to tell you that checking for alcohol you don't use a alcohol pad to clean the area as that can affect the results!! You use betadyn!! Can't wait for the next book and please finish #12 before December!!
November 1, 2024
Brent Jorgenson dies while biking and being hit by a vehicle. Things doing with the sheriff election are heating up, and Floyd Parker publishes a story about Jack fathering a baby and abandoning the mother and child. Things get dicey between Jaye and Jack, but they are soon back to working together to solve the death.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews