Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Osborn Brothers #1

The Dangerous One

Rate this book
Alone is good. Alone with her is…better.

Hunter Osborn left his family, his friends and his job as a park ranger after uncovering a disturbing crime scene. Haunted by nightmares and dark thoughts, Hunter relocated to a small cabin outside of Ridge Trail, Colorado, where he lives off the land (and mostly off the grid). To pay the bills, he works on classic cars, keeping his interactions with others to a minimum.

Still, Hunter can spot trouble from a mile away, and when he encounters Jodi Bentley, he knows she’s trouble of the most tempting kind—even more tempting when she moves into the run-down cabin next door. But when Jodi’s own past comes knocking, Hunter gets drawn out of his own darkness and into hers.

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 21, 2023

259 people are currently reading
782 people want to read

About the author

Lori Foster

416 books11.7k followers
Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.

Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.

Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/

Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.

•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.

•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.

•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.

•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.

•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.

•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.

•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.

•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.

•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
885 (45%)
4 stars
609 (31%)
3 stars
344 (17%)
2 stars
80 (4%)
1 star
35 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
Profile Image for Dale Harcombe.
Author 14 books426 followers
August 23, 2023
Two and a half stars.
After uncovering a disturbing crime scene, Hunter Osborn leaves his job as a park ranger. He also leaves family and friends and isolates himself on a rural property. Hunter can recognise trouble a mile off and when he meets Jodi Bentley, he knows she is trouble. She might be small in size but she is large in attitude. She evokes all sorts of responses in Hunter. Much as he tries to keep his distance, it doesn’t work. Jodi has her own traumatic issues from her past. But when trouble comes looking for Jodi, her and Hunter’s lives collide with alarming consequences and danger for both of them.
I had not read this author before. And although some aspects of the story worked okay, others did not. At times it dragged. There is quite a lot of violence. I got tired of repeatedly hearing how extraordinary, feisty and sexy Jodi is. And I skimmed the sex scenes as I don’t need the details of who did what and where and how etc. Plus there is a fair bit of bad language much of which was not warranted. So these aspects left me feeling it was just an okay read. This is book 1 of a series but I am not inclined to read any more. However, others may well respond differently.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,888 reviews451 followers
February 21, 2023
Hunter Osborn and Jodi Bentley are about to become neighbors, much to Hunter’s dismay. When Hunter rented his property, he made sure that he would have no neighbors. There was a small piece of land that did not look like it would ever be rented out, so he was quite happy with his choice of location. He soon learns that his new neighbor is a landscaper he just saw in town, Jodi Bentley. He saw her in an argument with someone that it takes strength to stand against. She definitely impressed him.

Meanwhile, Jodi has come from a tragic past and having just moved to a new town intends on starting over in her new job as a landscaper. With Jodi does not realize that someone has an eye on her cabin. She is about to face danger on more than one level, and a good thing for her is that she is not going to be alone in her new battles. Hunter plans on being there every step of the way. As independent and strong as Jodi is, she also gets help from a family that she has become a very important part of, the Mackenzie family.

This touching story has a very warm and intense romance that brews between Jodi and Hunter. Intrigue is also happening concerning the location where Jodi chooses to live. There is also the uncertain pasts that both Jodi and Hunter are working on overcoming. They are truly kindred spirits, and I love how their romance blossomed. In fact, this was one of the warmest and sweetest romances I have read in a very long time.

The Dangerous One is the first book in a new series that is a spin off of the Mackenzies of Ridge Trail trilogy. This compelling book does a fabulous job at beginning this new series, and at the end of the year at the next book will be out, The Fearless One, / where readers will get Memphis Osborn’s story. Memphis is Hunter’s brother, and the second book in the series should just be as intriguing and delightful as this one was.

Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/SudNFn86qZc
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,587 reviews784 followers
February 16, 2023
Former park ranger, Hunter Osborn, left his career and family in the aftermath of a tragic event. He loves the isolation of his land and business affords him. It’s just him and his dog. That is, until Jodi Bentley buys the run down cabin next door. Jodi is running from her past too and the tale that unfolds delivers a slow-burning romance and suspenseful tale.

I loved this tale from the onset. Jodi is all spunk and attitude. Hunter sees the troubled woman beneath her snark. If you’ve read the McKenzies of Ridge Trail, then you know Jodi, but don’t let that stop you if you haven’t. Foster does a great job of giving her back history without spoiling the other series. However, I recommend you add them to your reading pile. They are one of my favorites.

The tale that unfolds was filled with sweet and sexy moments as both Hunter & Jodi let down their guard and let the other in. In between, we deal with trouble as a local criminal was using Jodi’s abandoned property to hide things… things he wants back. The suspense angle was well done and allowed Hunter to meet Jodi’s adoptive family.

We also get to meet Hunter’s brother as we learn what happened to Hunter. I adored Memphis. We get some hints about his story and I look forward to it. Turbo, Hunter’s rescue dog, was a scene stealer and you’ll want to hug him.

Foster writes characters you connect with and form bonds with. I am looking forward to the next Osborn novel and hope we see more of the McKenzies. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Profile Image for Anita.
2,646 reviews218 followers
April 30, 2023
I haven't read Lori Foster recently. I didn't like the last few of her books I did read and decided to give her a rest. This book blurb sounds interesting so I'm giving her another shot. I didn't realize that this was a spin-off of the "McKenzies of Ridge Trail" Series. I was one and done with that series and, in fact, that was the series that caused me to take a Lori Foster hiatus. Soooo this book isn't looking so good so far. I miss the Lori Foster who wrote the "Love Undercover", "Body Armor" and "Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor" series. Those were a wonderful blend of hot romance and mystery/suspense. Lately her offerings have been filled with angst, martyr and TSTL tropes that just don't work for me.

DNF at 47%. I'm done with both the audio, which was narrated by Wayne Mitchell and was creepy and did nothing that made me want to continue listening to this book. He tried to make suspense out of a nothing plot. And the e-book, which, like I said is nothing of a plot. At 47% the plot reveled very little in the way of why these two characters are so prickly and closed off. You got hints as to why they were so hyper security conscious in small town Colorado, but no actual revelation. I'm tired of waiting. The baddies are baddies, at least I think so, but you have no idea why they so want to do Jodi harm, at least I think they do.

Here's what I know so far. Jodi Bentley relocated to Ridge Trail, Colorado, a small town, lives in a rundown cabin and runs a landscape business. She is also one of the victims saved by the McKenzie's, but she wants to experience life on her own. She does not trust - anyone.

Hunter Osborn was a game warden and had a terrible experience, at least I think he did. He has withdrawn from society preferring to live alone in the woods and work on classic cars. When Jodi moves into a rundown cabin within sight of Hunter's place, he is bent out of shape about it. But she's cute and just a prickly as he is so it must be a match made in heaven, right?

Here's what I think is going to happen: Jodi gets grabbed by the baddies and Hunter saves her. THE END.
Profile Image for Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms.
2,801 reviews344 followers
February 21, 2023
*I received a free copy of The Dangerous One. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*

The Dangerous One is set in the same world as The McKenzies of Ridge Trail, and I loved that I was able to follow Jodie in this story. As usual, there is quite a bit of suspense mixed in with the romance here, and both Jodie and Hunter had some pretty important demons from their past to deal with.

Because they felt like they met a kindred spirit the first time they laid eyes on each other, they slowly started opening up. Becoming neighbors by chance definitely helped with that - since they lived rather far from town, in a secluded place in the woods. Only their two houses was there, in the middle of trees, close to a creek and nature.

Jodie is the kind of strong woman I enjoy reading about. She had been through hell, but she was such a fighter. She had learned to take care of herself, and she had an aura of authority and knowing what she was doing that was impossible to resist. Enter Hunter, who had been through a different kind of hell. Who had a protective streak he needed to check around Jodie, because she wanted and needed to take care of herself.

Most of the 'sightings' of the McKenzies were by phone, and their easy banter was just as I remembered it from their stories.

The romance was so well done, a slow burn, building trust and tearing down walls protecting their hearts and souls, Jodie and Hunter were just so very right for each other. The steamy scenes were so steamy I had to pause every now and then for fear my kindle would go up in flames ;)

If you're looking for a steamy, hot, suspenseful romance with well rounded characters, search no more, The Dangerous One is it!
36 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2023
This book is about Jodie, who is from the McKenzies of Ridge Trial series. The Mckenzies also show up in this book,  mostly on the phone, which makes it even more interesting. I love reading about past characters and seeing them again in different books. I am really glad Lori Foster decided to write a book about Jodie. She was one of my favorite characters and  I am happy that she got her own book. This book is about how Jodie buys a house and moves to a new town to start her own lawn business. Of course, her new neighbor is sexy and has his own set of problems. They hit it off right away and the book is all about their sparks and danger. I highly recommend reading this book.  I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,209 reviews74 followers
February 21, 2023
After a deadly situation at work, Hunter has taken a break and isolated himself in the country with his hound dog mix, Turbo ( and all I could picture was Sheriff Rosco’s dog, Flash from The Dukes of Hazzard!). Hunter has been grappling with his role and the effects of the matter for some time, but burying himself away from everyone seems to suit him best. Or so he thinks. Then he meets Jodi, spitfire galore, and his world has a whole new meaning. Especially when the local mob like boss comes snooping around Jodi’s new home. He hid something in the previously vacant house and really wants it back!

Honest moment here…I truly had to think for a hot minute who Jodi was! I vaguely remembered she was connected to the Mackenzie family series, but not which book. Regardless of which story, I loved her! Jodi was direct, a bit sassy, and so stinking naive about relationships…yeah, she was a prickly sweetheart and I couldn’t help but root for her! Hunter was perfect for her. He was in tune with her oddities and she was someone he could really open up with. Hunter has a lot of protective instincts clamoring to break loose, but I appreciated how he lets Jodi have her moments to shine too!

A new book series, Hunter and Jodi kicked things off in style! There are some darker situations to deal with, so it isn’t all happy moments and sweetness. Just be aware before diving in. With cameos from a few favorite characters…Parrish and kids… meshed with fine lines of danger and then those romantic moments and some trademark humor, things are off to a great start!

I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
918 reviews12 followers
March 9, 2023
Great story and characters. I remember some of the characters because they were in a previous series. Can't wait for the next book!!
Profile Image for Debra .
1,385 reviews
November 19, 2022
Hunter and Jodi both ended up in the small Colorado mountain town to escape a troubled past. Hunter had a bad experience when he was a forest ranger and just wants to be left alone. Jodi was traumatized but later taken in by an amazing family that felt like she was now one of theirs and set her up with her own landscaping business. Her mantra is “Everyday life for the everyday woman.”

I loved how the two meet when Hunter is trying to get paid for work done on a classic car and Worth Linlow tries to claim a lower price than agreed with. Then Jodi comes up looking to get paid for her work and Worth doesn’t want to pay her the full price either. This is were Jodi shows her true colors – no one is going to mess with her and she can take care of herself. I loved it.

Things really get interesting when Hunter discovers Jodi has bought the run down property next to his home, the home where he didn’t expect to have any neighbors. Soon his desire to be totally left alone starts to crumble as he worries about her safety, which just annoys Jodi. But there is trouble coming her way and that is when the story takes off.

I loved Jodi and Hunter, but was thrilled to meet Hunter’s brother and touch base with Jodi’s adopted family.
I received an ARC from the author and NetGalley; this is my honest review.
369 reviews
February 24, 2023
Hunter and Jodi have an interesting first meeting. They recognize some similarities in both of their personalities. They are both very closed-off and want to depend on absolutely no one. Then they find out they are neighbors. Hunter is very drawn to Jodi but he can tell she doesn't like anyone getting too close. He has been that way himself. Of course, there is some drama that follows Jodi and Hunter wants to help keep her safe. At first, she doesn't want any help but finally lets her defenses down to let Hunter in and then he does the same as well. They have both been through some traumatic things and find out that having someone there for you doesn't mean you are weak. It means you are loved.

Thank you NetGalley and Lori Foster for the ARC of this great book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Shari.
20 reviews
January 7, 2023
Oh wow, this story was fantastic! Hunter and Jodi are two individual souls with memories past they can't escape. Drawn to one another, they work together to figure out the mystery of her cabin, and eliminate the danger, while learning to trust, and to love again. Along for the ride is Turbo, Hunter's dog I can't get enough of, The kick-ass McKenzie family (met in previous books) and Hunter's family (*really* hoping for their stories as well soon). As always, Lori Foster delivers!! One of my 3 auto-buy authors. This is my honest review of the ARC I received.
Profile Image for Gina.
67 reviews
February 23, 2023
I have been waiting for Jodi’s, from the McKenzies of Ridge Trail series, story and Lori Foster did not disappoint! This is the start of another great series. Hunter is an all alpha male and Jodi is a strong independent woman. It’s amazing how Lori brings together these two strong characters. This story has suspense, humor and family love. I love how the McKenzie family make appearances throughout the book. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. Way to go Lori!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Carrie.
45 reviews4 followers
February 22, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of The Dangerous One. This is a book about overcoming the past. Hunter moves to a small town to get away from his past, and Jodi moves to learn to be an "everyday woman". Trouble finds Jodi and Hunter steps in to help. Their experiences take you on a great journey. These two make a great couple that will have you rooting for a happily ever after. If you are looking for a great book that has it all, read The Dangerous One.
504 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I love Parrish and his family and am glad to see them in this series. I, am looking forward to the next story. I hope Remit gets his own book.

I highly recommended this book and all of Lori Foster's book. She never disappoints.

Thank you Harlequin and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,239 reviews207 followers
February 6, 2023
THE DANGEROUS ONE is the first instalment in Lori Foster’s contemporary, adult OSBORN BROTHERS romantic suspense series-a spin off from the author’s MACKENZIES OF RIDGE TRAIL series. This is former US Park Ranger Hunter Osborn, and landscaperJodi Bentley’s story line. Jodi Bentley was first introduced in the aforementioned series.

Told from third person perspective THE DANGEROUS ONE follows the building relationship between is former US Park Ranger Hunter Osborn, and landscaper Jodi Bentley. Jodi Bentley has purchased the property and rundown house next door to former US Park Ranger Hunter Osborn. Hunter needs his privacy; the quiet of living in the country, as he continues to struggle with a devastating search and rescue, months before. Jodi Bentley’s move to Ridge Trail is predicated on her ability to protect and defend. Jodi knows that her own protection is a matter of security and the well place surveillance of family and friends but Jodi never expected to be targeted for taking possession of an abandoned cabin. With the help of Hunter Osborn, Jodi reluctantly accepts the direction of her new life going forward until a message warns Jodi that all is not well, and her life may be forfeit with a secret discovery. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Jodi and Hunters, and the potential fall-out as Jodi finds herself hunted by a powerful man.

Jodi Bentley is a strong-willed, aggressive and determined heroine whose past life is dark, and has created the woman with whom Hunter will fall in love. Jodi had hoped for the peace and quiet of country living but from the outset Jodi discovers her ‘abrasive’ attitude has made a few enemies throughout the town. Hunter Osborn lives in seclusion, struggling in the wake of a heart breaking event. Meeting Jodi Bentley gives Hunter purpose, purpose that will pull together family and friends in an effort to save our heroine’s life.

The relationship between Hunter and Jodi begins as neighbors but Jodi’s first encounters with the locals finds our heroine battling with the misogynistic attitudes of the people in charge. Hunter is disheartened to discover someone has bought the place next door but is pulled into the aura that is Jodi Bentley. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters are numerous and colorful. We are introduced to Hunter’s brother Memphis; businessmen Worth Linlow, and Russ King, Danny Giggs, and Remmy Gardner, as well as the cameo (via phone) of Reyes McKenzie and Kennedy Brooks (Stronger Than you Know), and Reyes’ father Parrish McKenzie. The requisite evil has many faces.

THE DANGEROUS ONE is a story of secrets and lies, power, control and manipulation, security, protection, acceptance and love. The premise is intriguing and enthralling; the characters are energetic and determined; the romance is seductive.


www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
February 25, 2023
This one started out slow for me. It started to pick up once Jodi and Hunter started to reveal their pasts and realized how much they have in common. I was glad that Jodi didn't dismiss Hunter, but let him in. She needed more people other than her found family. The two of them quickly realized something was going on and started to protect Jodi's house and set about finding out things. It was great to see them help bring down the bad guy and leave their city better with him gone.
735 reviews2 followers
April 4, 2023
Hunter Osborn has moved to a remote area near Triple Creek, Colorado. He wants to stay to himself as he is recovering from a terrible crime. He worked as a park ranger. We eventually find out the specifics of what Hunter uncovered in that park he was working in.

Hunter made sure he had no neighbors when he rented the cabin he lives in. There is a neglected piece of land and run down cabin that he is sure no one will rent. He finds out differently when he is in town and discovers a landscaper by the name of Jodi Bentley has moved into the property. He finds her in an argument with a hard-nosed businessman. She impresses him with her grit.

Jodi is dealing with her own past, a very tragic one, the details of which are sparsely dealt with. She does not realize that she is in danger. Someone has hidden a cache of something in her cabin and wants her out. It's a good thing she has Hunter living by. Although Jodi does not like having to depend on anyone else. She does have a adoptive family who evidently helped her to recover from a horrendous incident. Jodi is used to taking care of herself and makes that plain to Hunter.

But Hunter develops a protective attitude toward Jodi and she finally learns to accept his help.

This story is obviously a spinoff from another series, that I am going to have to look for. I enjoyed this story of mystery and romance.
1,668 reviews41 followers
March 4, 2023
This is the first book in Foster’s Osborn Brothers series which it appears will only be two books long because there are only two Osborn brothers. It took me a while to figure it out but this book is sort of a spinoff of Foster’s McKenzies of Ridge Trail series. Our female protagonist is Jodi Bentley who had a secondary but important part in the second book in that series Stronger Than You Know.
Hunter Osborn is a man struggling with memories of a fatal night when to save himself and a woman he did things he never imagined he could. Eighteen months ago he left his family and bought a piece of land with a run down house about a half hour outside a small Colorado town. There with Turbo the hound he found and nursed back to health he lives a peaceful life fixing classic cars and having as little interaction with the townsfolk as possible. Then one day while doing business in town he spots Jodi Bentley with her tight little body and big attitude. One look into her amber eyes and he recognizes in its shadows a kindred spirit looking for someplace to hide from the world and the demons that keep her awake at night. When he learns the petite beauty has purchased the rundown shack next to his property he suspects she’s trouble that will threaten his peaceful life. Despite his supposed reservations he can’t resist making moves to invite Jodi into his life, inviting her over for dinner and helping her set up her home.
Jodi Bentley has dark secrets. She’d been a victim who fought her way to freedom by killing her captor. She then became a vigilante going after sexual predators. Her story is part of Stronger Than You Know. The McKenzies helped her get on her feet and show her a better way to live. Now she just wants to be a normal woman living a normal life. But given her indomitable spirit and her life’s experiences Jodi is anything but a normal woman. The Mckenzies are the only friends she’s ever had and the only people she trusts. She is clueless as to how attractive she is. She’s a little socially awkward always saying what she’s thinking and never backing down from a challenge. She has a unique ability to read people and situations. She doesn’t know Hunter Osborne’s secrets but she knows he has them and she knows they keep him awake at night. When he extends an invitation to dinner, she reluctantly and cautiously accepts. Thus begins a friendship between two people who try to keep their secrets locked behind the walls they’ve built. But their attraction to one another gradually tears down those walls and slowly they reveal their secrets to each other as they fall in love.
Unknown to either Jodi or Hunter, before she had purchased her house a local crime lord Bruce King had been using it as a stash house. When his minions show up one day to retrieve what he has stored there they discover the house is now occupied and measures have been taken to keep unwanted visitors out. When they report back to their boss who is drunk on his own power and murderously deranged he decides to take out his anger on Jodi for having the nerve to interfere with his plans intentionally or not. So there are the two story lines in this book. Hunter and Jodi finding their way into a loving relationship while dealing with the threat of the murderous crime lord. The McKenzies who consider Jodi family are never far away. Hunter’s younger brother Memphis shows up towards the end of the book to lend a hand. Good story with a nice blend or romance, suspense and some sex as Jodi goes from never been kissed to cashing her V-card pretty quickly. Jodi was great. Foster did a great job of creating a complex character. I loved how both Hunter and the McKenzies understood her and her fearless to the point of foolish confidence in her own abilities and were able to anticipate her actions to keep her out of real trouble.
1,354 reviews
March 12, 2023
Lori Foster does not disappoint!
The Dangerous One has a little bit of forced proximity, a little bit of insta-lust, and a whole lot of overprotective hero and those things are some of my favorites!
Hunter and Jodi are both loners - by choice - due to tragic things that have happened in their respective pasts. Jodi survived a traumatic long-term event that scarred her emotionally and left her afraid of opening up to anyone. She sets out on a path to live an "everyday life" in a new town, far away from her tragic memories. Hunter lived through a horrific event that still haunts him to this day. He isolates himself in his cabin in the woods, working on cars and not having to worry about anyone except himself.
All of that changes when Jodi crosses paths with Hunter. The prickly woman with the beautiful eyes and the wary smile knock Hunter for a loop the instant he meets her. While they were both overly cautious, Hunter was first to give in to his attraction and basically inserted himself into her life by being "neighborly".
Jodi doesn't know what to do with Hunter. She has no room for a man in her life - or so she thinks. When danger follows her to her new home, involving her next door neighbor at the same time, she is forced to rely on someone other than herself.
I really, really loved Hunter. He was exactly what Jodi needed - someone strong, caring and protective, but who would also let her take care of herself. He respected her and he cherished her, and he gave her the time she needed to open up to him.
I thoroughly enjoyed their story, and I hope Memphis gets a book soon!
Profile Image for Kim.
553 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2023
Hunter Osborn moved to Triple Creek to be alone and face his demons. He’s living the life he wants and fixing classic cars. Hunter is about to be pulled out of his imposed exile. Jodi Bentley’s was a nightmare. She did what was needed to survive. Jodi’s mantra is Everyday life for an Everyday woman. When these two meant they immediately see the same emotional survival instinct in each other. They’re secrets may just reveal which is The Dangerous One.

Lori Foster begins her new series the Osborn Brothers with the book The Dangerous One. Hunter Osborn is a man trying to deal with the idea of the man he’s become. Jodi Bentley is trying to show the people who have become her family that she can take care of herself. These two just want to be left alone to deal with their pasts. Moving to Triple Creek is their way of trying to have a ordinary life. A man who just wants to be left alone soon finds a neighbor who he wants to spend time with. A woman trying to show her friends aka family that she can take care of herself and lead an ordinary life as a landscaper is anything but. As these neighbors get to know each other and their secrets are revealed they’ll learn to trust each other. The Dangerous One has several layers of danger coming at the main character, from their emotional ones to the physical coming from outside sources. A woman whose past has her knowing how a bad guy thinks. A man wants nothing more than to protect the woman who has opened him up to the world again. A woman will learn to trust a man along with teaching her how a family treat each other. The Dangerous One by Lori Foster take the reader on a journey of two people who thought their pasts define them and bring the happily ever after they didn’t know they were looking for. This reader was a little disappointed that there wasn’t more conflict between the main bad guy and main characters. A romance between two people whose traumas are slowly revealed as they realize they’re falling in love. Foster takes the secondary character from her McKenzie’s of Ridge Trail series and brings her to the fore front as the lead heroine in the first book in the Osborn Brothers series and gives her fans the happy ending that they have wanted for the character since her introduction. A must read for Lori Foster fans of the McKenzie’s of Ridge Trail books and any of her other stories. This reader can’t wait to hear about Maverick and maybe Remy’s stories.
Profile Image for Nikki.
248 reviews5 followers
November 14, 2022
Jodi Bentley is trying to finally live free and find herself. She has come along way from the traumatized victim she used to be, to the bold as brass dynamo she is today. With the help of the McKenzies, Jodi starts her new life in the small town of Triple Creek with her new self ran lawn care company. She craves the independence her new place represents, even if it is in badly need of repair, so what if she is still battling some demons? Jodi is determined to live a normal life of a normal woman.

Hunter Osborn is battling some demons of his own and recognizes a like soul when he sees one. He is captivated by Jodi the moment he sees her but wishes to keep to his self imposed isolation, until he discovers she is his new neighbor in the house he thought to be inhabitable. His protective instincts won’t allow him to stop checking in on her well being and soon an unlikely and slightly rocky friendship develops. They both have secrets which keeps their guards up but at the same time they both realize that because of their secrets, they are safe with each other.

Trouble comes for Jodi as a local thug orders his minions to retrieve something of his from the shack he used to hide it in, only to find the shack is now a home. The thug decides to instead play games to entertain himself and he wants Jodi to be said entertainment.

We met Jodi in Stronger Than You Know (Kennedy and Reyes’s book), we learned her background and we’ve seen her struggle through some of her demons. To see her mostly past everything, don’t get me wrong there is still a struggle as there should be, but she is sooooo strong and sure of herself it is wonderful to see. There is a vulnerability still present that shows that she is still trying to find herself but ultimately she has succeeded in conquering her past.

Hunter is the best person for Jodi ever, he is suffering from his own demons but he is also a strong male protector. He is confident in the things that Jodi struggles with and can help to bolster her. The fact that he has his own struggles help him to understand Jodi’s demons and really it’s visa versa. I’m excited that we were introduced to new characters that can be included in further stories, I wasn’t ready for this series to end!!

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader copy of this book.*
Profile Image for Carma.
473 reviews5 followers
January 30, 2023
The Dangerous One is the first book of the new series, Osborn Brothers, by Ms. Foster. I am rating it 4.5 stars for the simple fact of it feeling a little too familiar in plot and execution.

Hunter Osborn wants to be left alone. He bought his private cabin, outside of Triple Creek, Colorado with that plan in mind. He doesn’t like to think about why he ran from his previous life, he just did. It’s been about 18 months and he is as lost as he was before. His rescue dog Turbo helps give him a focus again, and so does working on classic cars but that is all that he for distraction right now. That is until he gets a glimpse at the beauty wearing cut off shorts and work boots on a riding mower.

The main female character Jodi, we met in a previous series, McKenzies of Ridge Trail #2 Stronger Than You Know. She was held captive and met Kennedy and the other McKenzies who saved her from herself. She joined their business and family, and they’ve protected her ever since. She is now out on her own, just trying to start life as a normal girl, in a normal world. Unfortunately, trouble seems to find her wherever she goes. Right now the trouble in her face is Worth Linlow, sleezy businessman trying to scam her out of what’s owed her. Little does she know that Worth is the least of her problems in this sleepy mountain town.

Hunter and Jodi, find themselves more alike than either could ever anticipate. They both have secrets in their past, don’t trust easily and are skilled in survival. The storyline moves along at a swift pace with the types of secondary characters we’ve come to expect from the author. The love story builds up at a realistic albeit quick pace, with the final conflict over a little too quickly for my taste.

I loved the reality to which the author described Turbo, my mind’s eye could picture him and I laughed out loud quite a few times as I read the story. I also enjoyed meeting Memphis, Hunter’s younger brother, and can’t wait to see what is in store for him, and other secondary characters I have a feeling will be popping up in future novels. Catching up with the McKenzies was a nice treat too, it’s fun to go back and see what our favorite characters have up to.

Although it is part of a series, The Dangerous One can be read as a standalone. Very good start to a new series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Michelle N..
116 reviews2 followers
January 22, 2023
The Dangerous One by Lori Foster is the first book in her new Osborn Brothers series. This book tells the story of Hunter Osborn and Jodi Bentley. Jodi’s name might be familiar to fans of Lori Foster’s books because we were introduced to her in the McKenzies of Ridge Trail series. I have been waiting for Jodi to get her own book and was surprised to see her in a new series rather than a fourth McKenzie book. That being said, a new series makes sense because Jodi is uniquely her own person. She is a strong, independent, survivor, and deserves her own new series, with a man who falls hopelessly under her spell. I loved everything about this new series and this book. This book does take place in the McKenzie universe but it is most definitely Hunter and Jodi’s story.
Like Jodi, Hunter is trying to rebuild his life after a traumatic experience. Unlike Jodi, he is trying to rebuild his life in complete solitude while Jodi is trying to rebuild hers by working herself back into society. Hunter is drawn to Jodi as a kindred spirit, they accept each other for who they are. Isn’t that what love is all about? Hunter knows Jodi has secrets and a past she is working through. He doesn’t try to fix her or change her but works to understand her and build a foundation of trust with her.
This is an action-based romance so trouble does try to find it’s way into the developing relationship between Hunter and Jodi. They both need to learn to trust each other in order to face what is coming.
Lori Foster writes families, friends, and pets better than anyone. This book is no exception. Hunter comes with a lovable hound dog named Turbo who wins Jodi over before he does and a younger brother, Memphis, who has the next book in the series. She also introduced some other new characters that I hope get books as well but I am not willing to give any spoilers away.
I received an advanced reader copy for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kara Quade.
620 reviews4 followers
February 27, 2023
Hunter Osborn has isolated himself from his friends and family. He left his job as a park ranger after finding a gruesome crime scene that has left him haunted with violent nightmares. Hunter lives on an isolated property and keeps his interactions with people to a minimum. Jodi Bentley is a strong, tough as nails woman who has survived her own traumatic past. With the help of the Mackenzie family, Jodi is learning to live her life on her terms. Hunter knows Jodi is trouble but finds he can't stay away. Hunter's protective instints go into overdrive when Jodi is threatened. Jodi bristles under Hunter's alphaness and wants to handle the threats on her own. Jodi and Hunter grow closer and open up to each other as they spend time together. Can Hunter keep Jodi safe as the danger to her increases? Will Jodi and Hunter let down their walls and open their hearts to each other? Will Hunter reach out to his estranged family? Can Jodi and Hunter trust a surprise ally in their quest to find out who wants to hurt Jodi? I loved The Dangerous One, the first book in the Osborn Brothers series, by Lori Foster. Jodi and Hunter are an amazing couple with great chemistry that had them burning up the sheets when they finally gave into their attraction to each other. Loved how the Mackenzies were there for Jodi whether it was furniture for her house, background check on Hunter, or tapping into her security cameras on her and Hunter's property. The Dangerous One is a fantastic start to the new Osborn Brothers series by Lori Foster. I would highly recommend getting The Dangerous One. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Misty.
1,292 reviews30 followers
November 28, 2022
What a great beginning to a new series. In this book we get to see Jodi’s story who moved into a run-down shack near Hunter’s cabin. Jodi became close to the Mackenzie’s and their mission to take down human traffickers. Jodi always knows how to find trouble. When she finds two men snooping outside of her cabin, she knows something is going on. However, to her annoyance Hunter sees them as well and refuses to let her out of his sight. Jodi grows close to his dog and enjoys being around both Hunter and Turbo. This is new for her; she hasn’t been around someone she is interested in ever since she went through her ordeal.

Hunter has secluded himself after his last case as a Forest Ranger. He doesn’t like being around people, he doesn’t like going into town unless he has to, and likes it being just him and his dog. That all changes when Jodi moves in next door. Hunter is a protector, and it is difficult for him to stand back and let Jodi do her thing, although knowing she is fully capable of taking care of herself.

These two characters are fun, strong, independent and watching them learn how to coexist is entertaining. It was good to see Jodi get her HEA and I loved watching the Mackenzie’s get involved in this book. I just wish we could have seen them a bit more instead of as background characters. I loved Tank, he was such a fun dog and had so much character all on his own. The Dangerous One was a great start to this new series and I cannot wait to see where it goes.

Received ARC in exchange for honest voluntary review
Profile Image for Deb Schwartz.
534 reviews19 followers
January 14, 2023
Ohhh, The Dangerous One is a strong start to a new series by Author Lori Foster. The plot thickens as we get to know the town of Triple Creek, Colorado.

Hunter Osborn’s past has him living the secluded life, not being much of a people person suits him just fine until a short spitfire caught his eye. I felt the draw to this hero from his utter sex appeal as well as his huge caring heart.

Jodi try’s to live a normal life,where even being neighborly is a stretch for this heroine. Jodi Bentley is such a puzzle. This heroine has so many layers to her, I felt her strength as well as her softness. I enjoyed how she was able to banter with the best of them.

The first scene with Hunter and Jodi is very powerful. The trust is there almost immediately. Hunter and Jodi both have past with memories they find hard to escape. The chemistry is there between them without a doubt. Can they ends this mystery, and find each other again?

I can’t wait for more stories from these supporting characters, The McKenzie family from The McKenzie’s of Ridge Trail Series by Author Lori Foster along with Hunter’s family. Memphis and Madison are an interesting duo. Worth is a questionable man in my book. King is a bad evil force, that will take whatever he pleases. Will Hunter, Jodi and their band of mighty heroes be able to stop him? I was on the edge of my seat, Ms. Foster has a real talent of having her readers feel the chill when evil appears along with cheering for a HEA moment.

Rated 5 Stilettos and a Recommended Read by Deb!
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,955 reviews26 followers
January 2, 2023
Wow! What a great small town, edge of your seat story! Hunter will have you swooning while he tries to ease Jodi's fears, but make no mistake, Jodi isn't a meek woman who needs protecting! 5 amazing stars for this one!
Hunter walked away from his family, his job, after a horrible situation he was in. He's out in the woods, working on cars, all by himself with his dog, which suits him just fine. That is, until he see's this beauty headed his way, on a law mower and she informs him she lives in the disaster of a house that he can see from his property and thought was vacant. She's beautiful, and of course his dog loves her, but he can see she's definitely a force to be reckoned with.
When danger seems to come directly to her door, he's right there ready to protect her, but she shows him just how strong and self sufficient she is. She's had a rough past, and learned to care for herself, but by no means is she alone in the world, she's got the best family behind her, but she likes to take on situations by herself. Having Hunter here to help her is new to her, but when she starts to fall for him, she agrees to let him and the others help her out!
I loved this story so much! It was sweet with Hunter and how he handled Jodi! And the action kept me on the edge of my seat! Well done Ms. Foster!
981 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2023
You know what you get from Lori Foster’s thriller/romances. The guy is a sculpted hunk who falls instantly for the heroine. She is spunky and brave and willing to take on the world. There will be some evil guy with equally evil minions who is determined, for some reason, to kidnap the girl and kill the guy. Tension builds throughout the book as the good guys use all sorts of unbelievable hacking and IT skills to find out all about the baddies and to protect themselves. The hero and heroine will hold off on sex until the heroine fully trusts the guy and then they’ll have magnificent sex. Finally, the bad guys will make their moves and the good guys will defeat them in about three pages. So all that build up will all be over pretty quickly and then all the previous heroes with their lovely partners can get together for a reunion of hunky, sexy happiness.

If that sounds like your jam, you’ll enjoy this new entry. If it sounds too formulaic for you, this is not your book. I know what I’m going to get and I enjoy it so this was fun for me. I can suspend disbelief and just enjoy the ride, but it might not be for everyone.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
Profile Image for ari.
1,269 reviews
February 6, 2024
Woman with secretive past moves to a small town, disrupting the life of a man who also has a secretive past.

This was anticlimactic and not interesting.

Notes:
Mildly intrigued what her past could be. Probably abusive ex right? Stalker?

I love turbo. He puddled

For someone so wary of her surroundings, she warmed up to him fast. Dinner at his house, doesn’t run when she sees binoculars.

I love the chickens

She was held captive in a basement by a pervert but never SA'd? Well.

I hate that the intimate scene was interrupted by a chapter of the bad guy's POV.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.