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Seven of Spades #3
Cash Plays
Book three in the Seven of Spades series
In this game, the stakes are life or death.
The Seven of Spades is back with a vengeance — the vigilante serial killer has resumed their murderous crusade, eluding the police at every turn. But a bloodthirsty killer isn’t the only threat facing Sin City. A devious saboteur is wreaking havoc in Las Vegas’s criminal underworld, and the entire city seems to be barreling toward an all-out gang war.
As Detective Levi Abrams is pushed ever closer to his breaking point, his control over his dangerous rage slips further every day. His relationship with PI Dominic Russo should be a source of comfort, but Dominic is secretly locked in his own downward spiral, confronting a nightmare he can’t bear to reveal.
Las Vegas is floundering. Levi and Dominic’s bond is cracking along the seams. And the Seven of Spades is still playing to win. How many bad hands can Levi and Dominic survive before it’s game over?
Word 90,500; page 351
In this game, the stakes are life or death.
The Seven of Spades is back with a vengeance — the vigilante serial killer has resumed their murderous crusade, eluding the police at every turn. But a bloodthirsty killer isn’t the only threat facing Sin City. A devious saboteur is wreaking havoc in Las Vegas’s criminal underworld, and the entire city seems to be barreling toward an all-out gang war.
As Detective Levi Abrams is pushed ever closer to his breaking point, his control over his dangerous rage slips further every day. His relationship with PI Dominic Russo should be a source of comfort, but Dominic is secretly locked in his own downward spiral, confronting a nightmare he can’t bear to reveal.
Las Vegas is floundering. Levi and Dominic’s bond is cracking along the seams. And the Seven of Spades is still playing to win. How many bad hands can Levi and Dominic survive before it’s game over?
Word 90,500; page 351
300 pages, ebook
First published June 4, 2018
About the author
Cordelia Kingsbridge
30 books1,201 followersCordelia Kingsbridge has a master's degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, but quickly discovered that direct practice in the field was not for her. Having written novels as a hobby throughout graduate school, she decided to turn her focus to writing as a full-time career. Now she explores her fascination with human behavior, motivation, and psychopathology through fiction. Her weaknesses include opposites-attract pairings and snarky banter.
Away from her desk, Cordelia is a fitness fanatic, and can be found strength training, cycling, and practicing Krav Maga. She lives in South Florida but spends most of her time indoors with the air conditioning on full blast!
Away from her desk, Cordelia is a fitness fanatic, and can be found strength training, cycling, and practicing Krav Maga. She lives in South Florida but spends most of her time indoors with the air conditioning on full blast!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 561 reviews
May 24, 2018
4 Stars.
Three books in and this is turning into a highly addictive series.This one pulled me in from the start and didn't let go...
Dominic and Levi are in a good place emotionally when the book opens.There are sweet moments and some seriously hot one's as well.After reading the blurb for book four (big mistake!), I kind of knew what to expect but that didn't make it any less dramatic and the further I got into the book,the more I read with growing trepidation.Having an idea of how things would play out and how they actually do are two very different things...
Career wise,
Dominic has just started a new job as a Private Investigator and the case he's assigned to of a missing women is about to test his resolve to it's very limits...
Levi is getting more and more frustrated with his inability to catch the elusive Seven of Spades killer and add into the mix an all out gang war on the streets of Las Vegas and he seems to be pulled in every direction and increasingly unable to spend so much time with Dominic...
Cordelia Kingsbridge has created some truly great couples in her stories and Dominic and Levi are no exception.These two men are just meant to be together.I adore them individually and together they are explosive,although definitely not always pretty.Both struggling with ever present demons from their pasts...will their love be enough?
Although it was important to the story I got a bit bored with the gang war aspect and kind of felt the Seven of Spades took a bit of a back seat here.Having said that the mystery surrounding his/her identity is building nicely and I'm more than a bit fascinated by the fixation with Levi.I've had my theory on who it is from book one and my opinion is still the same...
Seriously,September can't come soon enough...I'm completely enthralled by this series.
Highly Recommended.
Review copy provided by the publisher,via NetGalley.
Three books in and this is turning into a highly addictive series.This one pulled me in from the start and didn't let go...
Dominic and Levi are in a good place emotionally when the book opens.There are sweet moments and some seriously hot one's as well.After reading the blurb for book four (big mistake!), I kind of knew what to expect but that didn't make it any less dramatic and the further I got into the book,the more I read with growing trepidation.Having an idea of how things would play out and how they actually do are two very different things...
Career wise,
Dominic has just started a new job as a Private Investigator and the case he's assigned to of a missing women is about to test his resolve to it's very limits...
Levi is getting more and more frustrated with his inability to catch the elusive Seven of Spades killer and add into the mix an all out gang war on the streets of Las Vegas and he seems to be pulled in every direction and increasingly unable to spend so much time with Dominic...
Cordelia Kingsbridge has created some truly great couples in her stories and Dominic and Levi are no exception.These two men are just meant to be together.I adore them individually and together they are explosive,although definitely not always pretty.Both struggling with ever present demons from their pasts...will their love be enough?
Although it was important to the story I got a bit bored with the gang war aspect and kind of felt the Seven of Spades took a bit of a back seat here.Having said that the mystery surrounding his/her identity is building nicely and I'm more than a bit fascinated by the fixation with Levi.I've had my theory on who it is from book one and my opinion is still the same...
Seriously,September can't come soon enough...I'm completely enthralled by this series.
Highly Recommended.
Review copy provided by the publisher,via NetGalley.
September 11, 2024
Reread March 2019
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4.25
~PLAYED AND LEFT BROKEN AS HELL~
Pardon my language for this review because I have feelings. TOO MANY RAGEY FEELING 🤬
This book…
This fucking book…
This motherfucking book…
I don’t even have the words right now. I feel like love is dead, everything is a lie and I wanna cry over a bag of hot Cheetos and a plate filled with delicious fried foods.
Cash Plays, the third book in the Seven of Spades ♠️ series and what a whopping play of crazy, disappointment, and hot man love this is. If you have no clue about this I suggest checking out my review Kill Game and see the delights of this vigilante killer who kills with flair on the crazy street of Las Vegas as a form of justice for those who escape justice form the police. The killer has fixated on Levi Abrams a detective and his partner Dominic Russo a PI. Together they are piano keys being played by a ruthless killer that is always one step ahead.
Now, the streets of Las Vegas are caught in a gang war and Levi and Dom is smack dab in the centre. The Seven of Spades has been on a killing spree and his/her crimes is escalating in ruthlessness. The calm killer is gone and the violence is at high level, seems SoS ♠️ now likes the taste of killing and is basking in the violence. Levi is frustrated that he’s no closer to catching the killer but he’s happy in his relationship and so somethings are looking up. But the thing is when you’re up the only left to do is fall and like playing Pyramid with a deck of cards, it all falls down.
Dom is on a case to rescue a girl but the case comes with complications and before he knows it, he’s caught with no escape. He’s putting everything he loves in danger but the rush is so palatable and Dom lives for it. He’s ashamed but now he’s trapped and everything is on the line.
Can I just say…what the fuck man. This book has ruined my entire month or longer until I get the next book. I don’t love it like I did the first two books and that only because of how ridiculous some of the story was. Especially with Dom (slight spoilers ahead).
This fool is doing his PI case and hears something about a password being involved. He lives in Las Vegas 🤔 ummmm excuse me sir. Why else would you need a password? and while reading I was just like “it’s all over now”. And it really was. Shit spiralled and now I can’t even with anything.
My love for Levi is strong as ever. I love that he’s just so badass, violent, and destructive. If you didn’t know, bad ass is my aesthetic. His relationship with Dom is so pure sometimes that it makes my heart ache and to see it unravel just has me so ragey. I really just want to cry because it’s too pure and…no words.
The FBI (Fucking Bitch-ass Investigator) agent. I don’t why his ass is there but I hope he’s just there to annoy me. Goodbye Rohan!!
The action is awesome. I was so entertained through the entire story. It’s like watching a crime drama with a new episode each week. I’m so invested in this story and while I have some idea who the SoS ♠️ is some new details make the operation so much bigger than anticipated and it literally could be anyone in the police station right now. Like what is happening??
The Ending: I’ve already started my fanfic to rewrite, because fuck no!! Dominic sir, please get it together (a bitch is on her knees here 😭).
Overall, highly entertaining, but Ms. Kingsbridge fun is over. Let’s get it together and stop playing with my emotions. No man shall stray and love will conquer all, pretty please. Cash Plays was the book I needed but I really don’t want. Putting in my request for book 4 pronto!! Another highly entertaining book in a series that is hands down one of my faves ever (little competition).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4.25
~PLAYED AND LEFT BROKEN AS HELL~
Pardon my language for this review because I have feelings. TOO MANY RAGEY FEELING 🤬
This book…
This fucking book…
This motherfucking book…
I don’t even have the words right now. I feel like love is dead, everything is a lie and I wanna cry over a bag of hot Cheetos and a plate filled with delicious fried foods.
Cash Plays, the third book in the Seven of Spades ♠️ series and what a whopping play of crazy, disappointment, and hot man love this is. If you have no clue about this I suggest checking out my review Kill Game and see the delights of this vigilante killer who kills with flair on the crazy street of Las Vegas as a form of justice for those who escape justice form the police. The killer has fixated on Levi Abrams a detective and his partner Dominic Russo a PI. Together they are piano keys being played by a ruthless killer that is always one step ahead.
Now, the streets of Las Vegas are caught in a gang war and Levi and Dom is smack dab in the centre. The Seven of Spades has been on a killing spree and his/her crimes is escalating in ruthlessness. The calm killer is gone and the violence is at high level, seems SoS ♠️ now likes the taste of killing and is basking in the violence. Levi is frustrated that he’s no closer to catching the killer but he’s happy in his relationship and so somethings are looking up. But the thing is when you’re up the only left to do is fall and like playing Pyramid with a deck of cards, it all falls down.
Dom is on a case to rescue a girl but the case comes with complications and before he knows it, he’s caught with no escape. He’s putting everything he loves in danger but the rush is so palatable and Dom lives for it. He’s ashamed but now he’s trapped and everything is on the line.
Can I just say…what the fuck man. This book has ruined my entire month or longer until I get the next book. I don’t love it like I did the first two books and that only because of how ridiculous some of the story was. Especially with Dom (slight spoilers ahead).
This fool is doing his PI case and hears something about a password being involved. He lives in Las Vegas 🤔 ummmm excuse me sir. Why else would you need a password? and while reading I was just like “it’s all over now”. And it really was. Shit spiralled and now I can’t even with anything.
My love for Levi is strong as ever. I love that he’s just so badass, violent, and destructive. If you didn’t know, bad ass is my aesthetic. His relationship with Dom is so pure sometimes that it makes my heart ache and to see it unravel just has me so ragey. I really just want to cry because it’s too pure and…no words.
The FBI (Fucking Bitch-ass Investigator) agent. I don’t why his ass is there but I hope he’s just there to annoy me. Goodbye Rohan!!
The action is awesome. I was so entertained through the entire story. It’s like watching a crime drama with a new episode each week. I’m so invested in this story and while I have some idea who the SoS ♠️ is some new details make the operation so much bigger than anticipated and it literally could be anyone in the police station right now. Like what is happening??
The Ending: I’ve already started my fanfic to rewrite, because fuck no!! Dominic sir, please get it together (a bitch is on her knees here 😭).
Overall, highly entertaining, but Ms. Kingsbridge fun is over. Let’s get it together and stop playing with my emotions. No man shall stray and love will conquer all, pretty please. Cash Plays was the book I needed but I really don’t want. Putting in my request for book 4 pronto!! Another highly entertaining book in a series that is hands down one of my faves ever (little competition).
A magnet designed as a seven of spades playing card was stuck to his refrigerator, securing a piece of paper on which a message had been scrawled in black marker: YOU HURT HIM, I HURT YOU DON’T PUSH YOUR LUCK
March 23, 2019
4.45 stars
“Everybody has a dark side,��� Dominic said. He unstrapped his right glove. “It’s okay to take that side out for a drive every now and then. Healthy adults have this crazy thing called impulse control that tells them when and where to do that. It’s what separates us from psychotic serial killers. And teenagers.”
DAMN! MUTHA OF ALL F**KERS This book made me ragey and....
The first half of this book had me fooled. Hot sex! Lovey dovey, enjoying the mystery….then all that gets taken away! Poof! All gone!
Levi and Dominic broke my heart and at the same time I wanted to just spank them. I was happy, angry, sad and everything in-between.
I believe I am not a violent person, but… buuuuut those fight scenes got me all hot and bothered. There is just something about guys beating each other up that gets me like, daaaamn. That stuff is on fire!! Levi is kinda of a psycho and i love him even more.
He launched himself at Dominic again. This time, Dominic evaded several strikes before landing a solid left hook and then slamming his right fist into Levi’s stomach. Levi coughed, doubling over, and then delivered a nasty snap kick.
The mystery in this one was just ok and also made me want to punch everyone involved, that gang war thing was just off and unnecessary. I can’t wait to find out who the SoS is. He/She/Them better be really smart because at the moment, i am finding it hard to believe this, all knowing, all smart, omnipresent 'A' person. At the same time, i love that he/she/ them is obsessed with Levi., it adds some juice to the story.
I can’t express how much I love the writing. CK sure can write. The words flow from page to page, the dialogues are so engaging, the sex is hoooot! and we get some humor too. What more can a girl ask for?
I don't want to read about Dominic's addiction ever! That stuff is fucked up, exhausting and so damn real.
This series has the best diverse characters and best bad-ass women ever. I need more of Rohan, Sawyer, Stanton. CK please give me more stories.
The award for the best supporting character ever goes to.. drum-roll please.. da-da-da-da!!
REBEL!!!
“Everybody has a dark side,��� Dominic said. He unstrapped his right glove. “It’s okay to take that side out for a drive every now and then. Healthy adults have this crazy thing called impulse control that tells them when and where to do that. It’s what separates us from psychotic serial killers. And teenagers.”
DAMN! MUTHA OF ALL F**KERS This book made me ragey and....
The first half of this book had me fooled. Hot sex! Lovey dovey, enjoying the mystery….then all that gets taken away! Poof! All gone!
Levi and Dominic broke my heart and at the same time I wanted to just spank them. I was happy, angry, sad and everything in-between.
I believe I am not a violent person, but… buuuuut those fight scenes got me all hot and bothered. There is just something about guys beating each other up that gets me like, daaaamn. That stuff is on fire!! Levi is kinda of a psycho and i love him even more.
He launched himself at Dominic again. This time, Dominic evaded several strikes before landing a solid left hook and then slamming his right fist into Levi’s stomach. Levi coughed, doubling over, and then delivered a nasty snap kick.
The mystery in this one was just ok and also made me want to punch everyone involved, that gang war thing was just off and unnecessary. I can’t wait to find out who the SoS is. He/She/Them better be really smart because at the moment, i am finding it hard to believe this, all knowing, all smart, omnipresent 'A' person. At the same time, i love that he/she/ them is obsessed with Levi., it adds some juice to the story.
I can’t express how much I love the writing. CK sure can write. The words flow from page to page, the dialogues are so engaging, the sex is hoooot! and we get some humor too. What more can a girl ask for?
I don't want to read about Dominic's addiction ever! That stuff is fucked up, exhausting and so damn real.
This series has the best diverse characters and best bad-ass women ever. I need more of Rohan, Sawyer, Stanton. CK please give me more stories.
The award for the best supporting character ever goes to.. drum-roll please.. da-da-da-da!!
REBEL!!!
June 5, 2018
4.5 Hearts
My immediate response upon finishing this book was:
Every time.
Every.
Single.
Time.
Imma have to re-think my whole vision of myself as "non-masochistic".
Cordelia Kingsbridge: slyly making readers redefine their self-image, one book at a time.
In other words...
Again! I knew it would. WE ALL KNEW IT WOULD! She'll prolly cliff us again in One-Eyed Royals. But I still steady keep reading them the second I get them. Like a junkie.
Honestly though, as hard as it was to read about two characters that I've grown to love struggle I wouldn't have it any other way. They have to test their relationship. It can't always be tongue slap your brains out sex and tender moments that make me heart eyes my kindle like a creeper. True, they're in a bad place right now but their connection to each other is soul deep and I know this too shall pass. There is relate-ability and authenticy in their issues which is what makes them difficult to read but also dovetails into stronger characterizations. I appreciate that these things weren't minimized or overwrought. Also, you know what the upside of them fighting is? ANGRY SEX FTW!!!!!!!!!
Where I think CK truly distinguished herself here is with the construction of this narrative. The Seven of Spades, I believe, is playing a larger puppet master role than I initially envisioned which opens up possibilities with regard to their endgame, and I do believe their is one. An endgame, that is.
Las Vegas's legendary organized crime plays a critical role in Cash Plays. The turf war has caught the attention of LVMPD and Dom gets involved by way of a possible kidnapping case he's working at his new PI job. There are three syndicates that run Las Vegas who seemingly have a cooperative relationship then Utopia bursts on the scene. No one knows much about them but they seem to be reaping all the rewards of said turf war. The lack of investigation into Utopia is my reason for deducting a half star. But even with that oversight this storyline was involved, complex and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
Get ready for LOADS of action in this installment! Levi BAMF ninjas out several times and even wends up on YouTube!
I love actiony books and this delivered while also subtly addressing the issue of gun violence and the role the police play in it that's in every headline and I liked the way it was handled; it wasn't preachy or didactic and it didn't divert attention away from the plot.
Those who suffer from depression may want to exercise caution with this one as both Levi and Dom seem to be struggling with it to varying degrees and coping with it in their own, sometimes maladaptive, ways.
Most concerning is Levi's relationship with the Seven of Spades and I don't mind saying I'm kind of beside myself over it. But I have to wait for the next installment.
Must read for fans of the series and psychological thriller fans.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley.
My immediate response upon finishing this book was:
Every time.
Every.
Single.
Time.
Imma have to re-think my whole vision of myself as "non-masochistic".
Cordelia Kingsbridge: slyly making readers redefine their self-image, one book at a time.
In other words...
Again! I knew it would. WE ALL KNEW IT WOULD! She'll prolly cliff us again in One-Eyed Royals. But I still steady keep reading them the second I get them. Like a junkie.
Honestly though, as hard as it was to read about two characters that I've grown to love struggle I wouldn't have it any other way. They have to test their relationship. It can't always be tongue slap your brains out sex and tender moments that make me heart eyes my kindle like a creeper. True, they're in a bad place right now but their connection to each other is soul deep and I know this too shall pass. There is relate-ability and authenticy in their issues which is what makes them difficult to read but also dovetails into stronger characterizations. I appreciate that these things weren't minimized or overwrought. Also, you know what the upside of them fighting is? ANGRY SEX FTW!!!!!!!!!
Where I think CK truly distinguished herself here is with the construction of this narrative. The Seven of Spades, I believe, is playing a larger puppet master role than I initially envisioned which opens up possibilities with regard to their endgame, and I do believe their is one. An endgame, that is.
Las Vegas's legendary organized crime plays a critical role in Cash Plays. The turf war has caught the attention of LVMPD and Dom gets involved by way of a possible kidnapping case he's working at his new PI job. There are three syndicates that run Las Vegas who seemingly have a cooperative relationship then Utopia bursts on the scene. No one knows much about them but they seem to be reaping all the rewards of said turf war. The lack of investigation into Utopia is my reason for deducting a half star. But even with that oversight this storyline was involved, complex and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
Get ready for LOADS of action in this installment! Levi BAMF ninjas out several times and even wends up on YouTube!
I love actiony books and this delivered while also subtly addressing the issue of gun violence and the role the police play in it that's in every headline and I liked the way it was handled; it wasn't preachy or didactic and it didn't divert attention away from the plot.
Those who suffer from depression may want to exercise caution with this one as both Levi and Dom seem to be struggling with it to varying degrees and coping with it in their own, sometimes maladaptive, ways.
Most concerning is Levi's relationship with the Seven of Spades and I don't mind saying I'm kind of beside myself over it. But I have to wait for the next installment.
Must read for fans of the series and psychological thriller fans.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley.
May 3, 2022
This book was HARD for me to read. Very angsty, and I don't particularly enjoy relationship drama, but I could NOT put it down. It's currently 5 am and I read straight through the night.
These books are difficult to review. Murders and drama both escalate. Blood, sex, and angst ensues. I'm going right on to the 4th book.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
These books are difficult to review. Murders and drama both escalate. Blood, sex, and angst ensues. I'm going right on to the 4th book.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
September 4, 2020
September 2020: Audiobook = once again***4+ Stars*** especially for all the accents Wyatt Baker pulls off
***********************************************
Original review: May 2018:
ALL BETS ARE OFF
With this last message - last warning - at the end of the previous book, the Seven of Spades upped the ante in their sick game of cat and mouse and unleashed an unprecedented killing spree in order to put the fear of god into Las Vegas's underworld and everyone who is trying to stop them. Playing mind games, mocking and challenging the police with every strike.
Levi's frustration about not being any further at closing this case than he was at the very beginning, threatens to snap his hold on his temper and his hard-won resolve on keeping the anger, the violence inside him at bay.
As if this wasn't enough, Levi has to deal with an obnoxious FBI profiler who could be a threat to his career and his love life and to top it all off, a new player enters the game whose goal apparently amounts to throwing Las Vegas into a gang war that is getting more and more out of hand.
While the Seven of Spades increasingly escalates, their obsession grows more and more mutual and in his fixation, the SoS even develops some kind of protective instinct for Levi, ending up in Levi finding his only solace in his lover Dominic and their deepening relationship.
Dominic sees himself forced to take a dangerous path, though. His new case as a Private Investigator to find a missing person compels him to push his luck and only results in him being stretched to his limits - not to say far beyond that - which in turn affects his relationship with Levi in a way neither of them anticipated. Not only Dominic's life choices are put to the test, but also their love for each other...
And on that note, I'll leave the rest to your imagination until you get to read it for yourselves. :-)
Yep, it's official now and I have it in black and white: I'm a glutton for punishment! I knew it! I knew how it would end - well, not exactly - but of course my inner toggler had to click the details for the book on the publisher site again (yeah, the next one too *cough*) and I had a vague idea how it would go down, even if the execution exceeded all my expectations. And still I couldn't resist... I'm not known for my patience and yet now I'm sitting here again on my hands for three more months until the next book comes out. Do I regret my decision? Hell no. This book sucked me in right from the start and everytime I read a book by this author - a book in this series in particular - it's like a movie playing in my mind's eye, thanks to the vivid writing style of the author - umm and yeah, also thanks to my vivid fantasy.
Ms. Kingsbridge is a master in lulling her readers - but also her characters - into a false sense of security by giving us some tender moments between Levi and Dominic to show us that these guys are a match made in heaven before she closes in for the kill, culminating in some seriously hot angry sex. But even if it was sometimes painful to read and I alternated between wanting to strangle Dominic and hug him, she absolutely convinced me of the realness of someone who is only intent on getting his next fix - figuratively speaking - by pushing any rational thought aside no matter what the cost.
Unlike Trick Roller the Seven of Spades took on a bigger role again this time and since I'm collecting my own evidence on the side, everything still points out to the one I had in my sights from the beginning and it's killing me to wait another half year to see if I'm right. The ending made me even more anxious about the next book than I already was since it looks like the Seven of Spades still has another ace up their sleeve.
Highly recommended!
***********************************************
Original review: May 2018:
ALL BETS ARE OFF
With this last message - last warning - at the end of the previous book, the Seven of Spades upped the ante in their sick game of cat and mouse and unleashed an unprecedented killing spree in order to put the fear of god into Las Vegas's underworld and everyone who is trying to stop them. Playing mind games, mocking and challenging the police with every strike.
Levi's frustration about not being any further at closing this case than he was at the very beginning, threatens to snap his hold on his temper and his hard-won resolve on keeping the anger, the violence inside him at bay.
He couldn't help thinking how thin the line could be between badass and psycho.
As if this wasn't enough, Levi has to deal with an obnoxious FBI profiler who could be a threat to his career and his love life and to top it all off, a new player enters the game whose goal apparently amounts to throwing Las Vegas into a gang war that is getting more and more out of hand.
While the Seven of Spades increasingly escalates, their obsession grows more and more mutual and in his fixation, the SoS even develops some kind of protective instinct for Levi, ending up in Levi finding his only solace in his lover Dominic and their deepening relationship.
Levi didn't have Dominic's brute strength, but in the face of a violent threat, he was just as capable of defending himself - perhaps more so. Yet resting in Dominic's arms always created a sense of safety he couldn't quite explain.
Dominic sees himself forced to take a dangerous path, though. His new case as a Private Investigator to find a missing person compels him to push his luck and only results in him being stretched to his limits - not to say far beyond that - which in turn affects his relationship with Levi in a way neither of them anticipated. Not only Dominic's life choices are put to the test, but also their love for each other...
And on that note, I'll leave the rest to your imagination until you get to read it for yourselves. :-)
Yep, it's official now and I have it in black and white: I'm a glutton for punishment! I knew it! I knew how it would end - well, not exactly - but of course my inner toggler had to click the details for the book on the publisher site again (yeah, the next one too *cough*) and I had a vague idea how it would go down, even if the execution exceeded all my expectations. And still I couldn't resist... I'm not known for my patience and yet now I'm sitting here again on my hands for three more months until the next book comes out. Do I regret my decision? Hell no. This book sucked me in right from the start and everytime I read a book by this author - a book in this series in particular - it's like a movie playing in my mind's eye, thanks to the vivid writing style of the author - umm and yeah, also thanks to my vivid fantasy.
Ms. Kingsbridge is a master in lulling her readers - but also her characters - into a false sense of security by giving us some tender moments between Levi and Dominic to show us that these guys are a match made in heaven before she closes in for the kill, culminating in some seriously hot angry sex. But even if it was sometimes painful to read and I alternated between wanting to strangle Dominic and hug him, she absolutely convinced me of the realness of someone who is only intent on getting his next fix - figuratively speaking - by pushing any rational thought aside no matter what the cost.
Unlike Trick Roller the Seven of Spades took on a bigger role again this time and since I'm collecting my own evidence on the side, everything still points out to the one I had in my sights from the beginning and it's killing me to wait another half year to see if I'm right. The ending made me even more anxious about the next book than I already was since it looks like the Seven of Spades still has another ace up their sleeve.
Highly recommended!
June 9, 2019
4.5 Stars!
This book was a complete struggle for me to get through. Now don't take that to mean I struggled because the book was awful. I obviously enjoyed it considering my rating. But the many emotions this book put me through was fucking exhausting. I put it down many times only to pick it right back up seconds later because no matter how frustrated or pissed off it made me, I still needed to know where it was going and how it would all end. My biggest struggle was with what was happening to my guys and the chaos surrounding them. Both men were deteriorating slowly throughout the book until the very end but in very different ways.
Dominic let his case compromise his recovery and used his case as an excuse to feed his addiction. He lost sight of what was important and jeopardized his friendships, his relationship with his family, his job, and most importantly, (to this girl) his relationship with Levi. As every addict does while they are in the mist of a relapse, Dom made excuses and became mean, angry, and defensive. With the high came extreme lows. He was ashamed and felt guilt but that only made him want to chase the high he got from his addiction even more so he wouldn't have to feel the low anymore. It's a vicious cycle and one he was still struggling with at the end of the book.
Levi has been struggling with his demon's since book 1. His anger, his nightmares, his inability to pull the trigger, and his paranoia that stems from the serial killer, SOS. His frustrations with this case has been bringing all of his issues to the forefront of his mind making him slowly come undone and had his icy persona breaking apart with every new development. By the end the book he accepts he needs help and seeks it and that was a bright spot from what happened in the rest of this book.
I need Levi and Dominic to get it together because I love them and their relationship is one of the realest I've read about it some time. They fit. The way they are with each other completely melts this cynic's heart. So to see it unravel the way it did in this book completely depressed my ass and made me grumpy as hell.
I can not express how up and down this book had me. My mood swings were no joke. I had my own highs and lows and boy did the people around me feel it. My sister was like, "You were fine when I left and now your a grumpy ass. What happened in the last hour I was gone?". This book! That's what happened. I knew things weren't going to end the way I wanted, which was with these guys kissing and making up and everything being rainbows and all that shit. Yet here I sit still upset and disappointed. I need the next book like an addict needs his next hit. But it says SEPTEMBER!!! I hate waiting.
I didn't love this one as much as the ones before it, but that had nothing to do with this authors writing or the majority of the story. I just had personal issues with how the relationship went but that's on me. I know there has to be downs in every relationship, but it doesn't mean I have to like them.
The whole story was just as enthralling and brilliantly written as the first and second book. This author has done an excellent job at building the mystery behind the serial killer because although I have someone in mind, I am completely in the dark honestly.
If you haven't picked up this series I highly recommend you do.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a complete struggle for me to get through. Now don't take that to mean I struggled because the book was awful. I obviously enjoyed it considering my rating. But the many emotions this book put me through was fucking exhausting. I put it down many times only to pick it right back up seconds later because no matter how frustrated or pissed off it made me, I still needed to know where it was going and how it would all end. My biggest struggle was with what was happening to my guys and the chaos surrounding them. Both men were deteriorating slowly throughout the book until the very end but in very different ways.
Dominic let his case compromise his recovery and used his case as an excuse to feed his addiction. He lost sight of what was important and jeopardized his friendships, his relationship with his family, his job, and most importantly, (to this girl) his relationship with Levi. As every addict does while they are in the mist of a relapse, Dom made excuses and became mean, angry, and defensive. With the high came extreme lows. He was ashamed and felt guilt but that only made him want to chase the high he got from his addiction even more so he wouldn't have to feel the low anymore. It's a vicious cycle and one he was still struggling with at the end of the book.
Levi has been struggling with his demon's since book 1. His anger, his nightmares, his inability to pull the trigger, and his paranoia that stems from the serial killer, SOS. His frustrations with this case has been bringing all of his issues to the forefront of his mind making him slowly come undone and had his icy persona breaking apart with every new development. By the end the book he accepts he needs help and seeks it and that was a bright spot from what happened in the rest of this book.
I need Levi and Dominic to get it together because I love them and their relationship is one of the realest I've read about it some time. They fit. The way they are with each other completely melts this cynic's heart. So to see it unravel the way it did in this book completely depressed my ass and made me grumpy as hell.
I can not express how up and down this book had me. My mood swings were no joke. I had my own highs and lows and boy did the people around me feel it. My sister was like, "You were fine when I left and now your a grumpy ass. What happened in the last hour I was gone?". This book! That's what happened. I knew things weren't going to end the way I wanted, which was with these guys kissing and making up and everything being rainbows and all that shit. Yet here I sit still upset and disappointed. I need the next book like an addict needs his next hit. But it says SEPTEMBER!!! I hate waiting.
I didn't love this one as much as the ones before it, but that had nothing to do with this authors writing or the majority of the story. I just had personal issues with how the relationship went but that's on me. I know there has to be downs in every relationship, but it doesn't mean I have to like them.
The whole story was just as enthralling and brilliantly written as the first and second book. This author has done an excellent job at building the mystery behind the serial killer because although I have someone in mind, I am completely in the dark honestly.
If you haven't picked up this series I highly recommend you do.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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February 22, 2022
4.5 i-really-went-through-it stars ☆
❝And I know why,❞ Dominic said quietly. His eyes were warm as they raked from head to foot. ❝It's because you trust I'd never use that strength against you. You're right. I'd only ever use it to protect you. To please you.❞
Levi strained up and pulled him into a ferocious kiss. ❝Right now I want you to please me with that enormous dick,❞ he said when the kiss broke.
Dominic grinned.
oh, fucking hell.
i was warned this was the start of angst-fest (thank you, julia), but are we ever really prepared for these things? i think not. the second half was... something. it honestly broke me, like
but i also LOVED it??
this book put me through every emotion in existence and, by the end, i was just
so yes. that's a thing.
on a happier note, there are so many interesting side characters in this series. can we please have stories for Rohan, Sawyer, Stanton, Volkov/Rocco, Parks family (don't ask me why, the way they were described was enough to intrigue me 🤣)?
❝And I know why,❞ Dominic said quietly. His eyes were warm as they raked from head to foot. ❝It's because you trust I'd never use that strength against you. You're right. I'd only ever use it to protect you. To please you.❞
Levi strained up and pulled him into a ferocious kiss. ❝Right now I want you to please me with that enormous dick,❞ he said when the kiss broke.
Dominic grinned.
oh, fucking hell.
i was warned this was the start of angst-fest (thank you, julia), but are we ever really prepared for these things? i think not. the second half was... something. it honestly broke me, like
but i also LOVED it??
this book put me through every emotion in existence and, by the end, i was just
so yes. that's a thing.
on a happier note, there are so many interesting side characters in this series. can we please have stories for Rohan, Sawyer, Stanton, Volkov/Rocco, Parks family (don't ask me why, the way they were described was enough to intrigue me 🤣)?
June 12, 2021
This was definitely an emotional rollercoaster. The first half of the book just sucks you into complacency. Levi and Dom are in a good place. Their careers are going moderately well.
Prickly Levi still melts when Dominic calls him baby. Some declarations might even be exchanged......
And then.
Since this is one of my favorite series, I read the Blurb for Book 4 as soon as I saw it. So I knew to expect pain.
Remember that Sarah McLachlan song, Hold on?
Hold on. Hold on to yourself. 'Cuz this is gonna hurt like hell.
An all-out gang war erupts in the city, causing Levi to be working 14 hour days, every day. He doesn't have enough time to pay attention to Seven of Spades. He also doesn't have any time for Dominic. His psyche is sinking further and further into a dark place.
Dominic, however, wouldn't have it any other way since he has his own cases to solve as a PI AND a gambling addiction in active status.
But my world imploded, along with Levi and Dominic's, when it all revealed itself.
The book doesn't end with any resolution. And that's sort of ok with me. It keeps the story line fresh and makes me salivate for Book 4 even more. I expect that one to hurt too.
I still can't wait!!!
May 29, 2018
*4.5 stars*
First of all let me say that Cordelia Kingsbridge is absolutely rocking my world with every new book she puts out there (and every new chapter on Patreon). She's been an auto buy ever since I read Close Protection and she hasn't disappointed me since.
Now about the book. Well, for me Cash Plays is like two books in one.
The first half: Levi and Dominic sitting in the tree...lalalala....There is sex, tender moments, the ”I love yous”(where I almost melted), some more sex, meeting the parents, and the Seven of Spades serial killer lurking in the background. But in general…
And then the second half....
BAM! Addiction, lies, hate sex, fights, gang wars, the Seven of Spades creepier than ever, and in the end...I'm not gonna say. But. SHIIIT!
Just don't expect this to end with hearts and flowers because it doesn’t. IT HURTS! And that's ok with me. It makes me even more giddy for the next installment.
I highly recommend the whole series. You won’t regret it.
First of all let me say that Cordelia Kingsbridge is absolutely rocking my world with every new book she puts out there (and every new chapter on Patreon). She's been an auto buy ever since I read Close Protection and she hasn't disappointed me since.
Now about the book. Well, for me Cash Plays is like two books in one.
The first half: Levi and Dominic sitting in the tree...lalalala....There is sex, tender moments, the ”I love yous”(where I almost melted), some more sex, meeting the parents, and the Seven of Spades serial killer lurking in the background. But in general…
And then the second half....
BAM! Addiction, lies, hate sex, fights, gang wars, the Seven of Spades creepier than ever, and in the end...I'm not gonna say. But. SHIIIT!
Just don't expect this to end with hearts and flowers because it doesn’t. IT HURTS! And that's ok with me. It makes me even more giddy for the next installment.
I highly recommend the whole series. You won’t regret it.
February 28, 2019
4.5 stars!
This series is driving me batshit crazy. I am usually pretty good figuring out “who dunnit”, but I have no clue who the Seven of Spades is. Plus all the struggles Levi and Dominick are going through. UGH!!
I have one more book to read before the final book is released, and March 11 cannot get here fast enough.
This series is driving me batshit crazy. I am usually pretty good figuring out “who dunnit”, but I have no clue who the Seven of Spades is. Plus all the struggles Levi and Dominick are going through. UGH!!
I have one more book to read before the final book is released, and March 11 cannot get here fast enough.
November 16, 2018
4.25 Stars
Well, well!! This series is getting better and better! There are mysteries and actions! But this time I enjoyed The drama between Levi & Dominic and the tension between them! Don’t get me wrong, the mystery/action side was really good but this time I enjoyed it more because they had their own battles to fight! Oh, and there is a new guy in town, Rohan! He is an FBI agent and profiler! I don’t trust him, he’s a bit shady, but still he intrigued me, maybe a little!?! I’m dying to know who is the killer!! How long do we have to wait to find the truth!?!?! I can’t wait anymore…
Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the third installment in the "Seven of Spades" series, it’s cliffy and has to be read in order. It’s well-written and well-paced with awesome characters! Overall, really liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks so much, dear Hadis, for the recommendation! Always appreciate…
Well, well!! This series is getting better and better! There are mysteries and actions! But this time I enjoyed The drama between Levi & Dominic and the tension between them! Don’t get me wrong, the mystery/action side was really good but this time I enjoyed it more because they had their own battles to fight! Oh, and there is a new guy in town, Rohan! He is an FBI agent and profiler! I don’t trust him, he’s a bit shady, but still he intrigued me, maybe a little!?! I’m dying to know who is the killer!! How long do we have to wait to find the truth!?!?! I can’t wait anymore…
Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the third installment in the "Seven of Spades" series, it’s cliffy and has to be read in order. It’s well-written and well-paced with awesome characters! Overall, really liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks so much, dear Hadis, for the recommendation! Always appreciate…
July 20, 2023
How can I start explaining what’s like reading this book? I felt like screaming half of the time, screaming at them for making bad decisions, screaming at every declaration of love, every time they showed me they are each other’s endgame yet kept putting obstacles in the way.
They lied, manipulated each other, only because their own problems were blinding them, telling them that’s the best for the other, the best to keep being happy as nothing is happening. I can’t think of the last time a book made me feel so lucky, so happy only to get my heart shattered in pieces. The best part about this series is that you are following flawed characters, people who commit mistakes and do things wrong yet the reasons behind their actions are so understandable you can’t help but suffer along with them, keep following them even if you know it’s the recipe for disaster.
The only small thing I would have changed is something that Dom does. I didn't see the point of hurting someone when he could have done anything else instead. While I get that Dom may not be at his best, it still didn't make sense for me other than being a plot device necessary for what was yet to come.
As for the mystery, there has only been a suspect on my mind since book one and it’s starting to give me anxiety how much they keep fitting as the story progresses. It’s such a wild guess I feel a bit dump just thinking about it, so let me hide the name until I reach book 5 and the author confirms I’m crazy, and then you can laugh at my expense.
↬ Seven of Spades:
1. Kill Game: 4.5 stars
2. Trick Roller: 4 stars
3. Cash Plays: 4.75 stars
4. One-Eyed Royals: 4 stars
5.A Chip and a Chair: 3 stars
They lied, manipulated each other, only because their own problems were blinding them, telling them that’s the best for the other, the best to keep being happy as nothing is happening. I can’t think of the last time a book made me feel so lucky, so happy only to get my heart shattered in pieces. The best part about this series is that you are following flawed characters, people who commit mistakes and do things wrong yet the reasons behind their actions are so understandable you can’t help but suffer along with them, keep following them even if you know it’s the recipe for disaster.
"You say I put you in a pedestal, Dominic, but you do that to yourself just as much. You can't stand for anyone to see you as anything other than this happy shiny image you project."
The only small thing I would have changed is something that Dom does. I didn't see the point of hurting someone when he could have done anything else instead. While I get that Dom may not be at his best, it still didn't make sense for me other than being a plot device necessary for what was yet to come.
As for the mystery, there has only been a suspect on my mind since book one and it’s starting to give me anxiety how much they keep fitting as the story progresses. It’s such a wild guess I feel a bit dump just thinking about it, so let me hide the name until I reach book 5 and the author confirms I’m crazy, and then you can laugh at my expense.
↬ Seven of Spades:
1. Kill Game: 4.5 stars
2. Trick Roller: 4 stars
3. Cash Plays: 4.75 stars
4. One-Eyed Royals: 4 stars
5.A Chip and a Chair: 3 stars
January 21, 2023
This was so intense I loved every second of it. This book gave me a lot of anxiety but I still loved it. Favorite in the series so far, but I say that every time. Can't wait to get to book 4.
June 29, 2024
Talk about an emotional rollercoaster. The book begins with Dominic and Levi in love and on their first vacation together. When they return to Vegas, Dominic meets Levi's parents, who are an absolute hoot. Levi's mom call Dominic Levi's "bashert" (soulmate).
The book ends with Dominic in active addiction, gambling away his life and pride; Levi spiraling to the point he can't keep his rage in check; and the MCs no longer together.
Watching Dominic make excuses for his gambling, seeing his shame and his unwillingness to do anything to help himself was gut-wrenching. He loses Levi, almost loses his job, misses his niece's birth, ditches Carlos ... all for what?
On top of that, we have gang warfare, a Russian mobster and his lover, a very handsome FBI profiler hitting on Dominic while hinting that Levi might be the serial killer, an informant in the LVMPD, and the Seven of Spades upping the ante with ever more elaborate displays of violence and power.
Cash Plays is thrilling and angsty. It made me angry, uncomfortable, and frustrated. I didn't enjoy the book but couldn't stop reading. Someone pour me a vodka double, STAT.
The book ends with Dominic in active addiction, gambling away his life and pride; Levi spiraling to the point he can't keep his rage in check; and the MCs no longer together.
Watching Dominic make excuses for his gambling, seeing his shame and his unwillingness to do anything to help himself was gut-wrenching. He loses Levi, almost loses his job, misses his niece's birth, ditches Carlos ... all for what?
On top of that, we have gang warfare, a Russian mobster and his lover, a very handsome FBI profiler hitting on Dominic while hinting that Levi might be the serial killer, an informant in the LVMPD, and the Seven of Spades upping the ante with ever more elaborate displays of violence and power.
Cash Plays is thrilling and angsty. It made me angry, uncomfortable, and frustrated. I didn't enjoy the book but couldn't stop reading. Someone pour me a vodka double, STAT.
September 26, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*I struggled a little bit with this one*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
We're back with third book of homicide detective of four years, Levi Abrams (how old?) and then bounty hunter and now private investigator and still part-time bartender (at Stingray, a LGBT nightclub), Dominic ‘Dom’ Russo (32). Levi and Dominic are getting even closer, however everything is pulling them apart; even themselves. The Seven of Spades are upping their games and are always three steps ahead of the police. They are also fixated on Levi. Levi is seriously struggling with his emotions; he's about to explode, and Dominic is struggling with his gambling addiction which are put on the front runner as he has a chase where gambling is included. Overall, I didn't like how different of a character Dominic was in this book. I felt disconnected to him and I didn't like it. It sorta ruined things for me.
“You’re the—the gentlest person I’ve ever met,” he said. “But somehow that never comes across as weakness. I don’t know how you do that.”
“Uh . . . thanks?”
“You’re . . .” Levi swallowed. “You’re always kind and loving and thoughtful.”
“Wow, how much wine did you have with dinner?” Dominic said, grinning.
“I’m not drunk.”
“Your face is super flushed.”
“I . . .” Levi pressed a hand to his own cheek and realized Dominic was right, though it wasn’t because of the wine. “I’m just trying to—”
“Don’t get me wrong, I like you all cute and pink-cheeked. It’s pretty—”
“For God’s sake, you asshole, I’m trying to tell you I love you!”
Dominic fell silent, every hint of amusement wiped clean from his face. Levi rolled his eyes and looked away, his cheeks burning hotter.
Both of Dominic’s large hands cupped Levi’s face and turned him back. Dominic met his eyes with the most solemn expression Levi had ever seen on him.
“I love you too,” he said.
Levi drew a shaky breath. He knew that Dominic loved him—had known for a while—but hearing it said aloud made it a concrete reality.
OTHER CHARACTERS:
→ Natasha Stone, one of the counselors in the LVMPD’s Police Employee Assistance Program
→ Nancy and Saul Abrams, Levi's parents.
→ Silvia, Dom's paternal grandmother. Rita, his mother. Natalie, his niece.
→ Stanton Barclay, young scion of a multibillion-dollar hotel empire and was Levi's boyfriend of three years.
→ Detective Martine Valcourt, Levi's work partner. Her husband, Antoine. Mikayla and Simone, their daughters.
→ Rebel, Dom's hundred-pound German Shepherd–Rottweiler mix.
→ Carlos Guerrero and Jasmine Anderson, Dom's neighbors.
→ Dominic's the third of five children, and the only one of his siblings still unmarried. Soon to be the only one without kids too, since his youngest sister Gina had just announced her first pregnancy a few weeks ago. Angela, the oldest of the five, then there's brother Vincent and sister Theresa. And Dom's brother-in-law Howard; married to Theresa?
→ Deputy District Attorney Leila Rashid
→ Adriana Velazquez (16), foster child.
→ Keith Chapman, was a detective with Levi. Killed himself after being framed by Seven of Spades.
→ Dr. Angela Tran, Keith's psychiatrist.
Nancy waved a hand. “So come the day after Christmas. That’s one of the upsides of dating a Gentile—you can spend Christmas with Dominic’s family and Hanukkah with yours, no problem.”
“I—” Levi stopped short and stared at her. “You just called Dominic by his actual name.”
Nancy glanced at Saul, smiled, and reached out to pinch Levi’s chin. “I’ve always said I’d know my son’s bashert when I met him. Haven’t I, Saul?”
“She has,” he agreed.
Soul mate. Levi swallowed past the sudden lump in his throat.
“Okay,” he said quietly. “I’ll talk to Dominic about it.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Three.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dominic ‘Dom’ Russo.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
June 4, 2018
Just when you start to relax with a few things, Cordelia Kingsbridge decides to turn up the intensity. Going into Cash Plays, everything felt relaxed and happy. Levi and Dominic are in such a good space. Their relationship is progressing in a very good direction. They're tender and loving and dirty with each other. For the latter half, though, I was filled with a sense of dread until I broke.
Going into this book, I had a fair idea of how it ended, at least relationship-wise, because I read the blurb for book 4. If you want to avoid spoilers, you really should avoid reading the book 4 blurb until after you read Cash Plays. Knowing though, did not diminish the intensity of watching the events unfold, however. Still -- don't do it. Just let it happen.
I'm not even sure where to begin with this review! Along with a ton of action, there were so many feels - good feels and rip your heart to shreds feels and all the feels in between. I'm feeling kind of shredded and raw right now as I try to write this.
Plot-wise, a whole lot happened. Between an escalating gang war and the activities of Seven of Spades, everyone is on high alert and all that intersects with a case Dominic is working on that sends him off the rails of recovery, and everything into a tail-spin.
The Seven of Spades series has become a favorite so quickly and even though I know the author is going to shred me (probably some more) and make Levi and Dominic suffer immensely, I know everything will be ok - eventually.
My suspect list of one, as to the identity of Seven of Spades, has not changed. Could it? Oh yeah, definitely. We still have 2 books to get through, yet. After this book, I'm not sure I'll survive the wait, but I must.
I definitely recommend this series.
-------------------
ARC of Cash Plays was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Going into this book, I had a fair idea of how it ended, at least relationship-wise, because I read the blurb for book 4. If you want to avoid spoilers, you really should avoid reading the book 4 blurb until after you read Cash Plays. Knowing though, did not diminish the intensity of watching the events unfold, however. Still -- don't do it. Just let it happen.
I'm not even sure where to begin with this review! Along with a ton of action, there were so many feels - good feels and rip your heart to shreds feels and all the feels in between. I'm feeling kind of shredded and raw right now as I try to write this.
Plot-wise, a whole lot happened. Between an escalating gang war and the activities of Seven of Spades, everyone is on high alert and all that intersects with a case Dominic is working on that sends him off the rails of recovery, and everything into a tail-spin.
The Seven of Spades series has become a favorite so quickly and even though I know the author is going to shred me (probably some more) and make Levi and Dominic suffer immensely, I know everything will be ok - eventually.
My suspect list of one, as to the identity of Seven of Spades, has not changed. Could it? Oh yeah, definitely. We still have 2 books to get through, yet. After this book, I'm not sure I'll survive the wait, but I must.
I definitely recommend this series.
-------------------
ARC of Cash Plays was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
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December 3, 2023
4.75***** "Don’t Push Your Luck" stars ♠︎
I admit, I made a grave mistake. I read the blurb for this one. And even worse, the beginning of the one for the next book, too. (Don’t ask!) So I went into this third part of the story with a sickening feeling of what’s to come and what would inevitably happen. So dumb! I do not recommend.
The pace of this book is insanely fast, so much is going on, there was literally no breather. Not regarding the mystery, not with the relationship between Dom & Levi. I guess one of my most circling thoughts was ohfuckohfuckohfuck!
WOW. Just wow!
I didn’t intend on binge reading this series but there is no way I stop reading now.
side note: is it wrong of me to have developed a soft spot for one certain Russian criminal? I want his story NOW!!!!!
***********
Seven of Spades Series:
Book 1 - Kill Game - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Trick Roller - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Cash Plays - 4.75 stars
Book 4 - One-Eyed Royals - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - A Chip and a Chair - 4.5 stars
“Everybody has a dark side,” […]
I admit, I made a grave mistake. I read the blurb for this one. And even worse, the beginning of the one for the next book, too. (Don’t ask!) So I went into this third part of the story with a sickening feeling of what’s to come and what would inevitably happen. So dumb! I do not recommend.
The pace of this book is insanely fast, so much is going on, there was literally no breather. Not regarding the mystery, not with the relationship between Dom & Levi. I guess one of my most circling thoughts was ohfuckohfuckohfuck!
“I’m capable of hurting you in ways you’d never hurt me,” he said. “That’s why I’d win a true fight between us. Every single time.”
WOW. Just wow!
I didn’t intend on binge reading this series but there is no way I stop reading now.
side note: is it wrong of me to have developed a soft spot for one certain Russian criminal? I want his story NOW!!!!!
***********
Seven of Spades Series:
Book 1 - Kill Game - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Trick Roller - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Cash Plays - 4.75 stars
Book 4 - One-Eyed Royals - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - A Chip and a Chair - 4.5 stars
June 19, 2018
Omigod, omigod, omigod!!!! This book! This story!! Arrrghhhhhhhhhh!!
I mean every single freaking book has left me on edge, panting, craving for more. The serial killer, The Seven of Spades is still out there and getting more personal. I still have NO CLUE as to whom it could be. Sure, there are a couple ideas floating around, but HELL! This is just so damned good!
Dominic is now a PI. Levi and Dominic take a vacation. Levi’s parents are due in town to visit. Levi and Dominic declare their love, but then start keeping things from each other. And Dominic, my sweet Army Ranger falls down a deep black hole and I don’t know how he’s getting out, cause I don’t think he wants to leave its safe confines.
I suppose this only makes sense if you’ve actually read the book. If you haven’t started the series, start.....don’t wait till the books are all out. Waiting and the pain that comes with it is part of the pleasure of this series, trust me!
This book had some nice and nasty sex scenes, but most of the pages were devoted to the crimes. Fantastic police procedural! A MUST read for sure! I can’t wait for the series to come out in audiobook!
I mean every single freaking book has left me on edge, panting, craving for more. The serial killer, The Seven of Spades is still out there and getting more personal. I still have NO CLUE as to whom it could be. Sure, there are a couple ideas floating around, but HELL! This is just so damned good!
Dominic is now a PI. Levi and Dominic take a vacation. Levi’s parents are due in town to visit. Levi and Dominic declare their love, but then start keeping things from each other. And Dominic, my sweet Army Ranger falls down a deep black hole and I don’t know how he’s getting out, cause I don’t think he wants to leave its safe confines.
I suppose this only makes sense if you’ve actually read the book. If you haven’t started the series, start.....don’t wait till the books are all out. Waiting and the pain that comes with it is part of the pleasure of this series, trust me!
This book had some nice and nasty sex scenes, but most of the pages were devoted to the crimes. Fantastic police procedural! A MUST read for sure! I can’t wait for the series to come out in audiobook!
August 28, 2018
I was a bit skeptical when it became clear that a serial killer would be hunted through the whole series. It means, not through initially three installments, but through five installments. Maybe even more, who knows.
I might be mistaken but I am slightly concerned that in this series quantity will take priority over quality. Not that I don’t trust the author with new creative ideas, but Cash Plays revealed some serious problems with a mystery part (for me) that was difficult to ignore for me.
Mystery:
First, nothing really happens here to solve THE BIG CASE: the killer plays his games with the police as always, except that killer's brutality increases, the obsession for Levi manifests and the police remains hopeless, ineffective and lacking in ideas.
Not even a new FBI consultant could contribute to a successful outcome - though I know by now that his role in the series less to help to find the serial killer, but rather to be a disturbing factor in Levi’s and Domenic’s relationship, and this task he masters perfectly well.
Somehow I had a feeling during reading the last third of the book that Cordelia Kingsbridge didn't really know what to do with the situation in which she brought her characters, it is why she came up with the action-packed gang war that occupies the major part of the mystery plot in the third book, but not very interesting to follow. I don’t like fighting scenes, not in the movies and much less in my books. Unfortunately, there are many of them here and they are just two lines too long.
But even more than written fighting scenes I dislike the situations when the MCs act unprofessionally. Levi and Domenic are very unprofessional in the third book. And, alas, in a way that makes the cop/PI's job in this book appear superficial and ridiculous, and this is also the fact that I refuse to accept.
Romance:
If you don’t care about the mystery at all, you won’t probably notice all trivialities I am complaining about, all you attention will be focus on the romantic relationship between Levi und Dominic, and – it has to be said – in the third book it turns suddenly into a big construction sites .
To tell the truth, I expected more pain and heartbreak at the romance part. Maybe I belong to the most hart-boiled contemporary romance reader but it was not THAT gloomy and hurtful as I initially suspected it to be.
Levi und Dominic are first at the beginning of their intense relationship, each one of them has their own strengths and weaknesses, and each one of them must learn to recognize and to deal with strengths and weaknesses of his partner. It still doesn’t work perfectly, but it is human, and I have no doubts that they will manage it in the future
Bottom line:
So, on the emotional part everything was fine, but I was pretty bored with all this
***ARC provided kindly by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
February 15, 2023
welcome to 202-Queer 🌈✨
50 in February: 23/50
i'm really upset actually :( this entire book was so sad :( by poor boys :( i'm crying :(
50 in February: 23/50
i'm really upset actually :( this entire book was so sad :( by poor boys :( i'm crying :(
January 8, 2019
I'm dying over this series. I can't even write reviews because I have to get to the next book. I think this was the best of them all. Maybe. Probably. OMG I love this series.
March 6, 2019
4.5 stars
The series has reached a point where it’s becoming more and more difficult to write a spoiler-free review, so I’ll just stand by one of my updates midway through this book: this was like watching a train wreck happening in slow motion.
I suspected something like this was going to happen since , but seeing events unfold was ten times worse.
Everything was done very well and realistically, , and that made it even more painful to watch.
I’ve never been more glad to have the lovely Rosa as my reading buddy for this series, her hand-holding throughout this book has been the only thing keeping me from throwing my Kindle at the wall.
And now excuse me while I go starting the next book.
The series has reached a point where it’s becoming more and more difficult to write a spoiler-free review, so I’ll just stand by one of my updates midway through this book: this was like watching a train wreck happening in slow motion.
I suspected something like this was going to happen since , but seeing events unfold was ten times worse.
Everything was done very well and realistically, , and that made it even more painful to watch.
I’ve never been more glad to have the lovely Rosa as my reading buddy for this series, her hand-holding throughout this book has been the only thing keeping me from throwing my Kindle at the wall.
And now excuse me while I go starting the next book.
August 9, 2021
Re-read 09/08/2021
Omg this was good! I definitely enjoyed the first two more only because I felt like the romance between Dom and Levi plus the mystery around the Seven of Spades took a back seat to everything else so it felt a little boring.
As always, most of the things are well done in this book! And I haven't read the last two books yet so I'm really excited to see how things turn out!
4 stars.
F*cking hell.
You're an idiot, Dominic. But I love you so can you please get your shit together.
I neeeed the next book now, pretty please.
_______
Before reading:
OMGOMGOMG RIPTIDE APPROVED ME FOR AN ARC. THIS NEVER HAPPENS.
*happy dance*
Omg this was good! I definitely enjoyed the first two more only because I felt like the romance between Dom and Levi plus the mystery around the Seven of Spades took a back seat to everything else so it felt a little boring.
As always, most of the things are well done in this book! And I haven't read the last two books yet so I'm really excited to see how things turn out!
4 stars.
F*cking hell.
You're an idiot, Dominic. But I love you so can you please get your shit together.
I neeeed the next book now, pretty please.
_______
Before reading:
OMGOMGOMG RIPTIDE APPROVED ME FOR AN ARC. THIS NEVER HAPPENS.
*happy dance*
May 5, 2019
This book certainly caused a lot of feelings ranging from sappy happy to boiling angry. It was a very enjoyable read but in the end I had a big question: Where do Levi and Dominic go from here?
It started innocent enough: new job for Dominic, new investigation for Levi and somehow it turned into a nightmare. Arrival of Levi's parents was a pleasant surprise and during their visit Dominic charmed their pants off. It was fun and happy time in their household. But then $$hit hits the fan. New FBI agent looking all gorgeous who causes Levi's jealousy, Seven of Spades who is changing their MO and no answers in sight. But this is not even the worst. It can only be described one way: Armageddon and Doomsday have just had a baby, and it IS UGLY!!!
Dominic during his case of missing person stumbles on an underground illegal casino ring and his addiction flares up like the fireworks on 4th of July. He thinks he has it under control....nope he does not and his life slowly starts to crumble. He is lying to his family and friends, to Levi, he is stuck in a loop of bets and casino chips. He is distant and cold and is not there when Levi needs him. It all comes to an end when Levi discovers the truth. The emotions were flying high that night and even though they have succeeded in their goals their personal lives were in tatters.
Dominic is back to full addiction and Levi does not know how to help him. But then he only tries one time and then seemingly gives up which is completely out of character and Dominic is so hurtful to Levi, the nasty words spewing out of him like water from a fire hydrant. It was sad to watch: two men in love, one whole broken in two. I totally think that Dominic is in the wrong here. He jeopardized everything when he stepped foot into that casino, he made a conscious choice and now he is reaping his just rewards, and it's not fair to Levi to pick up his slack but then that's what a relationship is about - to be there for your special person whether in good or bad.
And in the end Seven of Spades again shows their hand...to Dominic and I start to wonder what kind of hold does Levi have over their killer and if this obsession is not going to end with both of them dead. Very intense and enjoyable book! I highly recommend it!
It started innocent enough: new job for Dominic, new investigation for Levi and somehow it turned into a nightmare. Arrival of Levi's parents was a pleasant surprise and during their visit Dominic charmed their pants off. It was fun and happy time in their household. But then $$hit hits the fan. New FBI agent looking all gorgeous who causes Levi's jealousy, Seven of Spades who is changing their MO and no answers in sight. But this is not even the worst. It can only be described one way: Armageddon and Doomsday have just had a baby, and it IS UGLY!!!
Dominic during his case of missing person stumbles on an underground illegal casino ring and his addiction flares up like the fireworks on 4th of July. He thinks he has it under control....nope he does not and his life slowly starts to crumble. He is lying to his family and friends, to Levi, he is stuck in a loop of bets and casino chips. He is distant and cold and is not there when Levi needs him. It all comes to an end when Levi discovers the truth. The emotions were flying high that night and even though they have succeeded in their goals their personal lives were in tatters.
Dominic is back to full addiction and Levi does not know how to help him. But then he only tries one time and then seemingly gives up which is completely out of character and Dominic is so hurtful to Levi, the nasty words spewing out of him like water from a fire hydrant. It was sad to watch: two men in love, one whole broken in two. I totally think that Dominic is in the wrong here. He jeopardized everything when he stepped foot into that casino, he made a conscious choice and now he is reaping his just rewards, and it's not fair to Levi to pick up his slack but then that's what a relationship is about - to be there for your special person whether in good or bad.
And in the end Seven of Spades again shows their hand...to Dominic and I start to wonder what kind of hold does Levi have over their killer and if this obsession is not going to end with both of them dead. Very intense and enjoyable book! I highly recommend it!
May 5, 2019
Thank you Adam, for another amazing buddy read!
I really don’t know how to rate this.
It felt like an action movie most of the time and the romance fell completely flat. Levi is an uptight self-centered bitch whereas Dominic is a gentle giant type of perfect boyfriend who (dare I say it) finally shows his dark side in this book.
I loved Dominic’s struggles. You don’t see this type of issue () often in books and I find it portrayed really well. It makes a collected and thoughtful character like Dominic completely lose control and resort to some morally bad things to justify it. Pretty impressive.
What can I say in a review of the third installment of a series about a serial killer without it being a spoiler?
Seven of Spades is still on the loose and things are as shady and mysterious as always. This time, there’s even a couple of gangs thrown in, which spices things up a bit.
I like the continuous plot concerning the SOS killer, but the romance between Levi and Dominic left me disappointed. While things start out with a very VERY juicy sex scene that almost burned my retinas out, their relationship jumped the shark pretty badly for reasons that are caused by both guys.
Perhaps I am looking at this the wrong way, though. Perhaps . Or maybe I am just totally paranoid.
I definitely want to find out who the killer is, but sadly enough, I do not feel the epic relationship between Levi and Dominic anymore here.
3.5 stars!
I really don’t know how to rate this.
It felt like an action movie most of the time and the romance fell completely flat. Levi is an uptight self-centered bitch whereas Dominic is a gentle giant type of perfect boyfriend who (dare I say it) finally shows his dark side in this book.
I loved Dominic’s struggles. You don’t see this type of issue () often in books and I find it portrayed really well. It makes a collected and thoughtful character like Dominic completely lose control and resort to some morally bad things to justify it. Pretty impressive.
What can I say in a review of the third installment of a series about a serial killer without it being a spoiler?
Seven of Spades is still on the loose and things are as shady and mysterious as always. This time, there’s even a couple of gangs thrown in, which spices things up a bit.
I like the continuous plot concerning the SOS killer, but the romance between Levi and Dominic left me disappointed. While things start out with a very VERY juicy sex scene that almost burned my retinas out, their relationship jumped the shark pretty badly for reasons that are caused by both guys.
Perhaps I am looking at this the wrong way, though. Perhaps . Or maybe I am just totally paranoid.
I definitely want to find out who the killer is, but sadly enough, I do not feel the epic relationship between Levi and Dominic anymore here.
3.5 stars!
October 6, 2024
Ok.
All day yesterday I was off. I felt anxious. Unsettled. Not really in a bad mood and not really angry just NOT ME. I couldn't figure it out. I haven't been sleeping great (thanks Mom) but I didn't really feel tired. I had a long weekend, life is great...
And then I realized it was this book. It was affecting me like Harry wearing the Horcrux and I couldn't shake it. I couldn't stop reading but felt dread when I thought about it.
Overall I don't know how I feel exactly about this installment of the series. I know it was an uncomfortable read for a lot of different reasons and I am unsure how I feel about the end.
What I do know is I need a quick break and will probably need to re-read at least the last 20% again before continuing. So, that's where I am right now.
Full series review once I finish.
Full review now posted here.
All day yesterday I was off. I felt anxious. Unsettled. Not really in a bad mood and not really angry just NOT ME. I couldn't figure it out. I haven't been sleeping great (thanks Mom) but I didn't really feel tired. I had a long weekend, life is great...
And then I realized it was this book. It was affecting me like Harry wearing the Horcrux and I couldn't shake it. I couldn't stop reading but felt dread when I thought about it.
Overall I don't know how I feel exactly about this installment of the series. I know it was an uncomfortable read for a lot of different reasons and I am unsure how I feel about the end.
What I do know is I need a quick break and will probably need to re-read at least the last 20% again before continuing. So, that's where I am right now.
Full series review once I finish.
Full review now posted here.
March 14, 2019
Review to come after binge-reading...maybe
May 19, 2018
"Everyone who meets Dominic loves him. I've heard bounties he's arrested talk about what a nice guy he is."
"I have a Jewish mother. I am her only son. King David himself could walk the earth again and she wouldn't think he was good enough for me."
Hello bingemode my old friend.. sadly, though, with only three books (well, two!) out so far, this is as far as said binge goes. But what a ride it has been.
"He used to be just the cutest, scrawniest little thing you ever saw -- all elbows and knees with a big poof of curls. I have some pictures in my wallet if you'd like to see them."
"Please."
"You're all dead to me."
Naturally, when you sign up for a multiple-book romance arc, you know there will be instances where your pairing doesn't do so well. And for Levi Abrams, Las Vegas homicide detective, and Dominic Russo, once a bail bondsmen and now a PI, this is that instance.
"If you became a murderer, you'd never be content to simply slit a man's throat and be done with it. You would tear your victims apart and leave them in pieces. That's how I know you're not the Seven of Spades."
Seeing as we're three books in to a continuing plot, as well as romance, there are so many things I can't say for fear of spoilers. However the premise continues to be set around a vigilante serial killer who has a strange attachment to our couple but, specifically, Levi. Which is just one of the many reasons an FBI profiler is brought onboard as the killer continues to go about enacting his brand of terrible justice. Simultaneously, the city seems to be on the brink of a war between the three top gangs. A war that appears to be more and more the result of someone on the inside betraying the others. Said gangwar coincidences with a missing person's case that Dominic takes on, which has the unfortunate luck of being tied up in a moveable underground gambling ring, which threatens Dominic's addiction.
"Everyone has a dark side. It's okay to take that side out for a drive every now and then. Healthy adults have this crazy thing called impulse control that tells them when and where to do that. It's what separates us from psychotic serial killers. And teenagers."
Basically CASH PLAYS is a bubbling pot about to overflow and cause a clusterfuck of a mess.. which it does. The emotional chaos, doubt, and lies that get flung about in this installment were rough. Like I said, this is the low point of the series that I would like to think will only make our couple stronger once they can move past and overcome what they've endured. Between Dom's backsliding, Levi's rage and despair at his lack of traction with the Seven of Spades case (not to mention his own darkness), the sweet and funny moments in the third Seven of Spades were few and far between. But they were still present. The escalation of the heat in their intimate moments did seem to have a direct correlation to how spectacularly they were crashing and burning, though, so.. I mean.. thanks? It was hot? Just also frustrating and sad.
Levi's last boyfriend had been a suave, well-educated billionaire successfully managing the North American division of his family's global-spanning hotel empire. That was a tough act to follow for a debt-ridden college dropout with a gambling problem.
As always, though, Kingsbridge leaves us with a cliffhanger that isn't a cliffhanger so much as an 'oh shit' moment. I am so rabidly curious as to who the Seven of Spades is. Each book has solidified just how fascinating this character is and the suspect list is basically.. anyone. Everyone. It's mindboggling and it's no wonder Levi is frustrated and obsessed. I'm right there with you!
"For God's sake, you asshole, I'm trying to tell you I love you!"
I regret waiting so long to start this series but now that I'm left waiting for more, I also regret starting it this soon, #readerstruggles. I'm so looking forward to more of this series and can't wait to see what the author has in store for us, and her characters, next.
4 "if you're going to sext at work, the least you could do is share some details" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
"I have a Jewish mother. I am her only son. King David himself could walk the earth again and she wouldn't think he was good enough for me."
Hello bingemode my old friend.. sadly, though, with only three books (well, two!) out so far, this is as far as said binge goes. But what a ride it has been.
"He used to be just the cutest, scrawniest little thing you ever saw -- all elbows and knees with a big poof of curls. I have some pictures in my wallet if you'd like to see them."
"Please."
"You're all dead to me."
Naturally, when you sign up for a multiple-book romance arc, you know there will be instances where your pairing doesn't do so well. And for Levi Abrams, Las Vegas homicide detective, and Dominic Russo, once a bail bondsmen and now a PI, this is that instance.
"If you became a murderer, you'd never be content to simply slit a man's throat and be done with it. You would tear your victims apart and leave them in pieces. That's how I know you're not the Seven of Spades."
Seeing as we're three books in to a continuing plot, as well as romance, there are so many things I can't say for fear of spoilers. However the premise continues to be set around a vigilante serial killer who has a strange attachment to our couple but, specifically, Levi. Which is just one of the many reasons an FBI profiler is brought onboard as the killer continues to go about enacting his brand of terrible justice. Simultaneously, the city seems to be on the brink of a war between the three top gangs. A war that appears to be more and more the result of someone on the inside betraying the others. Said gangwar coincidences with a missing person's case that Dominic takes on, which has the unfortunate luck of being tied up in a moveable underground gambling ring, which threatens Dominic's addiction.
"Everyone has a dark side. It's okay to take that side out for a drive every now and then. Healthy adults have this crazy thing called impulse control that tells them when and where to do that. It's what separates us from psychotic serial killers. And teenagers."
Basically CASH PLAYS is a bubbling pot about to overflow and cause a clusterfuck of a mess.. which it does. The emotional chaos, doubt, and lies that get flung about in this installment were rough. Like I said, this is the low point of the series that I would like to think will only make our couple stronger once they can move past and overcome what they've endured. Between Dom's backsliding, Levi's rage and despair at his lack of traction with the Seven of Spades case (not to mention his own darkness), the sweet and funny moments in the third Seven of Spades were few and far between. But they were still present. The escalation of the heat in their intimate moments did seem to have a direct correlation to how spectacularly they were crashing and burning, though, so.. I mean.. thanks? It was hot? Just also frustrating and sad.
Levi's last boyfriend had been a suave, well-educated billionaire successfully managing the North American division of his family's global-spanning hotel empire. That was a tough act to follow for a debt-ridden college dropout with a gambling problem.
As always, though, Kingsbridge leaves us with a cliffhanger that isn't a cliffhanger so much as an 'oh shit' moment. I am so rabidly curious as to who the Seven of Spades is. Each book has solidified just how fascinating this character is and the suspect list is basically.. anyone. Everyone. It's mindboggling and it's no wonder Levi is frustrated and obsessed. I'm right there with you!
"For God's sake, you asshole, I'm trying to tell you I love you!"
I regret waiting so long to start this series but now that I'm left waiting for more, I also regret starting it this soon, #readerstruggles. I'm so looking forward to more of this series and can't wait to see what the author has in store for us, and her characters, next.
4 "if you're going to sext at work, the least you could do is share some details" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
April 5, 2019
4.5 Stars
This woman is a genius.
I'm reviewing this as an ARC so I have to have more words than that, though.
So, in this installment we start off with Levi & Dominic pretty solid in their relationship, taking a vacation together. Levi definitely needs the break because of how involved he is in the SoS Killer case...but because the SoS is so focused on Levi they also took some time off all the killing. Which is totally weird and, when looked at along side all the other aspects of the case, well...I can totally see why the FBI (and probably a lot of cops & civilians) think that Levi is the SoS. Which he's not because obviously we know of phone calls and texts and other such "friendly" communications.
At least...well, for a hot minute there I thought "damn, I hope it's not some Dissociative Identity thing where the SoS personality sets up these calls/texts/etc. knowing what Levi might be likely to say in conversation." Which, no, that last phone call at the end of the book makes that less likely. But STILL, holy hell what a MindF*ck THAT would be, amirite?
Anywho, Dominic just got his PI license and landed a major case...one that put his back into play in a bad, bad way. It was like watching a car crash happen in extreme slow motion; you knew what was gonna happen, how he was gonna react, what he was gonna do and how he'd justify it. You just had to wait for it all to unfold, helpless. And damn, that was painful. Especially how he completely . But Levi is a fighter and a lover and will stick by Dominic - at least until it becomes an enabling issue (which was actually addressed, so bravo).
The SoS Killer is still up to vigilante justice, this time involving a whole bunch of gang members...who already seem to have an internal fight on their hands, wherein someone on the inside appears to be pitting the previously aligned gangs against each other. Wasn't hard to figure out who once they were introduced, but I couldn't decide if they were also the pawn of SoS. I'll let you find that bit out for yourself.
Once again I loved how CK really made Vegas into a side-character in her own right. If you're a local, you'd notice a ton of things she got right...and not just the who/where/what details but the ambiance, the actual feel for things off the Strip and out of the bright lights. That aspect is probably one of my favorite things about this series. In the future, the locations used might date the book though; which, honestly, will appeal to the nostalgia factor I guess.
Finally, that ending. I just about died because I was sort of expecting it and yet didn't dare hope it would happen. I'm having a hard time feeling antipathy toward the SoS Killer, in all honesty. Do I believe in the rule of law? Absolutely. But unfortunately, as recent RL events prove, justice isn't applied evenly to everyone...and some people just need a killing.
Can't wait for the next one. OMFG it's months away yet...
Original Thoughts:
*FLAILING SO HARD RIGHT NOW*
⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊
ARC provided via Netgalley and Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This woman is a genius.
I'm reviewing this as an ARC so I have to have more words than that, though.
So, in this installment we start off with Levi & Dominic pretty solid in their relationship, taking a vacation together. Levi definitely needs the break because of how involved he is in the SoS Killer case...but because the SoS is so focused on Levi they also took some time off all the killing. Which is totally weird and, when looked at along side all the other aspects of the case, well...I can totally see why the FBI (and probably a lot of cops & civilians) think that Levi is the SoS. Which he's not because obviously we know of phone calls and texts and other such "friendly" communications.
At least...well, for a hot minute there I thought "damn, I hope it's not some Dissociative Identity thing where the SoS personality sets up these calls/texts/etc. knowing what Levi might be likely to say in conversation." Which, no, that last phone call at the end of the book makes that less likely. But STILL, holy hell what a MindF*ck THAT would be, amirite?
Anywho, Dominic just got his PI license and landed a major case...one that put his back into play in a bad, bad way. It was like watching a car crash happen in extreme slow motion; you knew what was gonna happen, how he was gonna react, what he was gonna do and how he'd justify it. You just had to wait for it all to unfold, helpless. And damn, that was painful. Especially how he completely . But Levi is a fighter and a lover and will stick by Dominic - at least until it becomes an enabling issue (which was actually addressed, so bravo).
The SoS Killer is still up to vigilante justice, this time involving a whole bunch of gang members...who already seem to have an internal fight on their hands, wherein someone on the inside appears to be pitting the previously aligned gangs against each other. Wasn't hard to figure out who once they were introduced, but I couldn't decide if they were also the pawn of SoS. I'll let you find that bit out for yourself.
Once again I loved how CK really made Vegas into a side-character in her own right. If you're a local, you'd notice a ton of things she got right...and not just the who/where/what details but the ambiance, the actual feel for things off the Strip and out of the bright lights. That aspect is probably one of my favorite things about this series. In the future, the locations used might date the book though; which, honestly, will appeal to the nostalgia factor I guess.
Finally, that ending. I just about died because I was sort of expecting it and yet didn't dare hope it would happen. I'm having a hard time feeling antipathy toward the SoS Killer, in all honesty. Do I believe in the rule of law? Absolutely. But unfortunately, as recent RL events prove, justice isn't applied evenly to everyone...and some people just need a killing.
Can't wait for the next one. OMFG it's months away yet...
Original Thoughts:
*FLAILING SO HARD RIGHT NOW*
⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊⇊
ARC provided via Netgalley and Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
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