Rating: 4.5 🌈
So far, Bad Deal is now my favorite story in Annabeth Albert’s A-List Security series.
This is the first book that I really just completely got both characters and was invested in the growing relationship from the very beginning and stayed that way.
It’s not got a ton of high angst. Except for a realistically traumatizing scene (trigger warnings) early in the book. Ambrose Sterling has Hercules, Chinese Crested emotional support dog, because he has anxiety and panic attacks.
Albert does a terrific job with this element of Ambrose’s character and this aspect of the story. He sees a therapist, he’s situationally aware of what might bring on an attack, and he has Hercules. Hercules is an adorable pint sized character indeed. He’s also unafraid to talk about his condition.
I love how adult and responsible this is.
That means that, except for that attack scene (non sexual but realistically frightening), the path that tv producer Ambrose Sterling and head security adviser Harley Burton take towards an emotionally rewarding relationship and HEA is one of small steps. Of them becoming friends, then lovers as eventually, they deeply connect through shared experiences and values.
And one tiny emotional support Chinese Crested who adores both.
Harley Burton, a common character in the previous books, finally gets the depth and emotionally satisfying dimension to his character we’ve been hoping for. The internal dialogue about his sexuality that’s been happening settles in so Harley recognizes he’s probably always been pansexual. It’s the beautiful dialogue that occurs between Ambrose and Harley, a naturally flowing exchange of feelings and thoughts, that’s believable and cements their relationship.
Of course, there’s more bumps to overcome to HEA, but it’s a fabulous, heartwarming journey. One where you absolutely connect with these men and their families. And one tiny dog.
I’m highly recommending Bad Deal and wondering what the next has in store.
Plus it was a pleasure to get glimpses of past couples in Rainbow Cove, if only for a moment.
A-List Security series:
🔹Tough Luck #1
🔹Hard Job #2
🔹Bad Deal #3
🔹Rocky Start #4 – Jan 26, 2023
Goodreadshttps://www.goodreads.com › showBad Deal (A-List Security #3) by Annabeth Albert
Description:
I’m a bodyguard and far from ideal boyfriend material, but agreeing to this fake dating scheme might be the best bad deal I’ve ever made…
I’m a fixer. As a SEAL chief, I succeeded in impossible no-win situations. Now I’m retired and determined to improve the lives of my former military teammates through our Hollywood security firm. Plus, I get to guard intriguing people like Ambrose Sterling, creator of one of my favorite TV shows.
Of course, I want to keep Ambrose safe. When he’s attacked, I leap into action to save him and his scrappy little therapy dog.
But my good deed results in a coastal road trip with me pretending to be Ambrose’s boyfriend to keep him out of more danger.
I don’t do relationships, and I’ve never thought about dating a man before, but here I am, sizzling with every touch and dreaming about more stolen kisses.
Each night of white-hot passion brings us closer to an unbreakable bond. But I’m blue-collar, and Ambrose is Hollywood elite. I want a happy ending more than anything. Can I turn this fake boyfriend gig into the real thing, or am I just a guest star?
BAD DEAL is book three in the A-List Security series. It features a highly protective SEAL bodyguard, a suit-wearing silver fox, an adorably ugly dog, and all sorts of brand-new emotions. Get ready for all the high heat, big feels, and found family feels readers expect from this fan-favorite military romance author. Join A-List Security for this lower-angst series featuring former SEALs and the celebrity clients who win their hearts. Happy endings and no cliffhangers guaranteed!
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Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 