What do you think?
Rate this book
The Defender
A TOUGH-AS-NAILS FBI SPECIAL AGENT AND A STUNNING BLONDE ATTORNEY WITH SOMETHING TO PROVE JOIN FORCES IN THE DEFENDER.
By all accounts Penny Hennings was the sort of woman FBI special agent Russell Voight went for. Smart, sexy and with just enough sass to keep him honest. Then she went sticking her nose in undercover FBI business. He knew her legal reputation would skyrocket if she won this case. But every move she makes undoes all the work Russell's put into taking down the city's biggest crooks. And the criminals they're after will do anything to avoid the witness stand—including kill. So it's time to pool their resources and collaborate. Even if working together every day takes them late into the night…and into the line of fire.
By all accounts Penny Hennings was the sort of woman FBI special agent Russell Voight went for. Smart, sexy and with just enough sass to keep him honest. Then she went sticking her nose in undercover FBI business. He knew her legal reputation would skyrocket if she won this case. But every move she makes undoes all the work Russell's put into taking down the city's biggest crooks. And the criminals they're after will do anything to avoid the witness stand—including kill. So it's time to pool their resources and collaborate. Even if working together every day takes them late into the night…and into the line of fire.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
12 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Giordano
124 books862 followersAuthor also writes as Anne Dano
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romantic suspense and mystery novels. She is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book.
For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AdrienneGiord..., Twitter at http://twitter.com/AdriennGiordano and Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/AdrienneGior....
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romantic suspense and mystery novels. She is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book.
For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AdrienneGiord..., Twitter at http://twitter.com/AdriennGiordano and Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/AdrienneGior....
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 2, 2019
American citizens deserved to have their constitutional rights protected and that was her job. Invariably upon meeting someone, she'd be asked what was known by defense attorneys as the "cocktail party question." The old "How can you defend them?" and nothing provoked Penny like that blasted question. For her it was about judgment, and implying that being a defense lawyer was somehow less worthy than being a prosecutor. As if she took joy in defending a man accused of murder. In truth, many nights she lost sleep over it.
Reality was she couldn't resist the job. Call her a masochist but she loved the unwinnable case. Loved the inevitable problems and the intellectual challenge.
The war. 12%
This is a sequel to Giordano's The Prosecutor - even though GR doesn't tell you that. The hero in the last book was the prosecutor Zac Hennings, and the heroine in this book is his sister - defense lawyer Penny Hennings.
The book opens with the hero, FBI agent Russell Voight checking out Penny's ass. You'd be surprised with just how many romance novels start out with the hero checking out the heroine's ass. It's a surprisingly high number, given what a disgusting way to introduce our hero it is. Needless to say I don't find it very romantic.
Five months ago, Penny shredded Russ on the stand in court. Russ and Penny are actually a pretty good match. Penny is a ruthless snake, an aggressive and manipulative lawyer. That really turns Russ on. He loves her manipulative, hard, aggressive, biting, determined personality. He loves that she argues about everything. He calls himself 'a sick man' for this, but if you saw how Penny was in Book One you will understand it takes a special man to fall in love with her.
As for personally liking her, there were things about her that irked me. For one thing, she has a low opinion of men. I can't even list all the times she said the sentence "Men are pigs" or "all men are pigs" in this book. It was A LOT. She also calls men 'gorillas' and thinks their posturing and fighting are idiotic.
He gave her the hard stare. He probably didn't like being called Russell. Too bad, because calling men by their given names with just a hint of sarcasm had been a trick Penny used to maximum effect. She called it the Mommy Game and she hadn't met a man yet who could withstand it. 8%
This is another romance novel that throws the word 'alpha' around like confetti. We even have a term 'ultra-alpha' in here when - I guess - the word 'alpha' just isn't alpha enough. This is dumb. The whole idea of human societies having an alpha is dumb - we're not wolves. In one scene in here, Giordano describes three men in a room as 'alpha.' Just because a man is tough and/or powerful does not make him 'alpha.' The idea that men fight it out for dominance daily, perhaps hourly, is ridiculous and not accurate (I hope). It sounds frankly extremely exhausting for the men. It's also spawned some completely ridiculous and misguided ideas about men and manliness and 'attracting women' that frankly are pretty disgusting but I see spouted a lot on the Internet.
An evil, scumbag criminal is targeting Penny because Penny is defending someone who is going to testify against him. Russ is assigned to protect her. Blah blah blah.
As is usual with these novels, we really have two parallel stories here: the suspense story and the romance story. As I've said before, it's EXTREMELY difficult to deliver satisfaction on both these fronts in one book. To be fair, Giordano gives it a great try.
The romance has it's ups and downs. On the good side, Russ and Penny suit each other. They seem to find each other's personality amusing. Russ doesn't take Penny's snide remarks and constant bickering personally. In fact, he's turned on by it. Penny likes that he's steady and that he enjoys her abrasive personality. They are pretty upfront with each other, which is good.
The bad is that they have sex at a ridiculous moment. Truly a terrible time to have sex.
He also gets an erection when he and Penny are being shot at, which I thought was a bit odd. I mean, I'm not a man, but I found it a bit odd.
As far as the suspense plot goes, while Giordano is good at making things exciting and rather fast-paced, there are some major flaws in logic here. You're never sure if this is for real, or if Giordano is just making up stuff as she goes along.
The way the FBI handles this is not realistic, with Penny being able to do all sorts of things without her handlers realizing it. She makes some truly idiotic mistakes, but so does Russ. I would be harder on Giordano but it truly is extremely difficult to write good, convincing romantic suspense. Especially with this word-count.
Some pluses are that Russ is five-ten. It's rare to get a man under six foot as a romance hero. Another plus is how small-chested Penny is. She barely fills a padded A-cup. This is also rare in romance. I liked these little touches.
There are some funny moments in here with the back-and-forth between Penny and Russ.
"You'll have to wait, though. I'm not blowing this case because I'm fantasizing about you naked. Except for a pair of stilettos - the red ones from the other day - and that pink bra from last night."
"Oh, please. That would be so uncomfortable. You really have no idea. Not to mention they don't match." 33%
However, it's nowhere near as funny as the copy would have you believe.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
I can't believe I'm writing this again, but this is YET ANOTHER book which has the hero talking about and promising slow sex and then just saying 'fuck it' and going at it hard and fast. For first-time sex in the couple. Why is this SO COMMON? a.) Writers are lazy. b.) Writers are not permitted to write hot, slow sex scenes. c.) Writers think slow lovemaking is boring. d.) Writers are unable to write good, slow sex.
I don't know, but I'm fucking sick of it and it is so prevalent I'm starting to become ecstatic every time a romance novel DOESN'T pull this shit. Which is sad.
This is an extremely annoying trope and it's making me rabid.
They use condoms, that's good.
Nothing sexually exciting or interesting happens IMO.
TL;DR For a romantic suspense, this wasn't bad. Giordano didn't do as well in this book as she did in The Prosecutor. I thought The Prosecutor was better.
Strengths: they fit together, personality-wise. The suspense story is slightly dumb but still better than average found in these books and pretty quick-paced.
Weaknesses: Some dumb shit going on with the suspense plot. Both Russ and Penny were a bit grating to me. They may have been a perfect fit for each other, but I found them rather unlikable as individuals. They have sex at the most horrible time. Him getting an erection while being shot at was also weird IMO. Some of their banter was offensive to me (as was Penny's constant insistence that all men were pigs) but I think Giordano was meaning for it to be humorous. Occasionally it was humorous, but mostly it was just grating
P.S. There was some missing punctuation in this book. Sloppy editing. I expect more from Harlequin.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES:
Contemporary Romance
Romantic Suspense
Non-Virgin Heroine
Lawyer Romance
He's an FBI Agent; She's a Defense Attorney.
SERIES:
#1: The Prosecutor
#2: The Defender
#3: The Marshal
#4: The Detective
#5: The Rebel
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
Reality was she couldn't resist the job. Call her a masochist but she loved the unwinnable case. Loved the inevitable problems and the intellectual challenge.
The war. 12%
This is a sequel to Giordano's The Prosecutor - even though GR doesn't tell you that. The hero in the last book was the prosecutor Zac Hennings, and the heroine in this book is his sister - defense lawyer Penny Hennings.
The book opens with the hero, FBI agent Russell Voight checking out Penny's ass. You'd be surprised with just how many romance novels start out with the hero checking out the heroine's ass. It's a surprisingly high number, given what a disgusting way to introduce our hero it is. Needless to say I don't find it very romantic.
Five months ago, Penny shredded Russ on the stand in court. Russ and Penny are actually a pretty good match. Penny is a ruthless snake, an aggressive and manipulative lawyer. That really turns Russ on. He loves her manipulative, hard, aggressive, biting, determined personality. He loves that she argues about everything. He calls himself 'a sick man' for this, but if you saw how Penny was in Book One you will understand it takes a special man to fall in love with her.
As for personally liking her, there were things about her that irked me. For one thing, she has a low opinion of men. I can't even list all the times she said the sentence "Men are pigs" or "all men are pigs" in this book. It was A LOT. She also calls men 'gorillas' and thinks their posturing and fighting are idiotic.
He gave her the hard stare. He probably didn't like being called Russell. Too bad, because calling men by their given names with just a hint of sarcasm had been a trick Penny used to maximum effect. She called it the Mommy Game and she hadn't met a man yet who could withstand it. 8%
This is another romance novel that throws the word 'alpha' around like confetti. We even have a term 'ultra-alpha' in here when - I guess - the word 'alpha' just isn't alpha enough. This is dumb. The whole idea of human societies having an alpha is dumb - we're not wolves. In one scene in here, Giordano describes three men in a room as 'alpha.' Just because a man is tough and/or powerful does not make him 'alpha.' The idea that men fight it out for dominance daily, perhaps hourly, is ridiculous and not accurate (I hope). It sounds frankly extremely exhausting for the men. It's also spawned some completely ridiculous and misguided ideas about men and manliness and 'attracting women' that frankly are pretty disgusting but I see spouted a lot on the Internet.
An evil, scumbag criminal is targeting Penny because Penny is defending someone who is going to testify against him. Russ is assigned to protect her. Blah blah blah.
As is usual with these novels, we really have two parallel stories here: the suspense story and the romance story. As I've said before, it's EXTREMELY difficult to deliver satisfaction on both these fronts in one book. To be fair, Giordano gives it a great try.
The romance has it's ups and downs. On the good side, Russ and Penny suit each other. They seem to find each other's personality amusing. Russ doesn't take Penny's snide remarks and constant bickering personally. In fact, he's turned on by it. Penny likes that he's steady and that he enjoys her abrasive personality. They are pretty upfront with each other, which is good.
The bad is that they have sex at a ridiculous moment. Truly a terrible time to have sex.
He also gets an erection when he and Penny are being shot at, which I thought was a bit odd. I mean, I'm not a man, but I found it a bit odd.
As far as the suspense plot goes, while Giordano is good at making things exciting and rather fast-paced, there are some major flaws in logic here. You're never sure if this is for real, or if Giordano is just making up stuff as she goes along.
The way the FBI handles this is not realistic, with Penny being able to do all sorts of things without her handlers realizing it. She makes some truly idiotic mistakes, but so does Russ. I would be harder on Giordano but it truly is extremely difficult to write good, convincing romantic suspense. Especially with this word-count.
Some pluses are that Russ is five-ten. It's rare to get a man under six foot as a romance hero. Another plus is how small-chested Penny is. She barely fills a padded A-cup. This is also rare in romance. I liked these little touches.
There are some funny moments in here with the back-and-forth between Penny and Russ.
"You'll have to wait, though. I'm not blowing this case because I'm fantasizing about you naked. Except for a pair of stilettos - the red ones from the other day - and that pink bra from last night."
"Oh, please. That would be so uncomfortable. You really have no idea. Not to mention they don't match." 33%
However, it's nowhere near as funny as the copy would have you believe.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
I can't believe I'm writing this again, but this is YET ANOTHER book which has the hero talking about and promising slow sex and then just saying 'fuck it' and going at it hard and fast. For first-time sex in the couple. Why is this SO COMMON? a.) Writers are lazy. b.) Writers are not permitted to write hot, slow sex scenes. c.) Writers think slow lovemaking is boring. d.) Writers are unable to write good, slow sex.
I don't know, but I'm fucking sick of it and it is so prevalent I'm starting to become ecstatic every time a romance novel DOESN'T pull this shit. Which is sad.
This is an extremely annoying trope and it's making me rabid.
They use condoms, that's good.
Nothing sexually exciting or interesting happens IMO.
TL;DR For a romantic suspense, this wasn't bad. Giordano didn't do as well in this book as she did in The Prosecutor. I thought The Prosecutor was better.
Strengths: they fit together, personality-wise. The suspense story is slightly dumb but still better than average found in these books and pretty quick-paced.
Weaknesses: Some dumb shit going on with the suspense plot. Both Russ and Penny were a bit grating to me. They may have been a perfect fit for each other, but I found them rather unlikable as individuals. They have sex at the most horrible time. Him getting an erection while being shot at was also weird IMO. Some of their banter was offensive to me (as was Penny's constant insistence that all men were pigs) but I think Giordano was meaning for it to be humorous. Occasionally it was humorous, but mostly it was just grating
P.S. There was some missing punctuation in this book. Sloppy editing. I expect more from Harlequin.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES:
Contemporary Romance
Romantic Suspense
Non-Virgin Heroine
Lawyer Romance
He's an FBI Agent; She's a Defense Attorney.
SERIES:
#1: The Prosecutor
#2: The Defender
#3: The Marshal
#4: The Detective
#5: The Rebel
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
June 16, 2014
I can't say enough about how much I loved this book. We first met Penny in her brother's book, The Prosecutor, when she was trying to clear someone that he was trying to keep in prison. I knew then that I wanted to read her story. This book starts out with a bang, quite literally, and the action never stopped.
Penny is a top notch defender. When one of her clients comes to her because of threats against her life and that of her son, Penny also finds herself in the line of fire. Russ is on the spot to save her and her father, because he had been waiting to meet with her. He needs help from her and her client to put a particularly nasty criminal away. This man is also connected to the death of her client's husband and she has information that will help Russell nail him.
I loved Russell and Penny and the relationship between them. As an agent, Russell really doesn't like defense attorneys, because they work to free the same people he wants behind bars. Five months earlier Penny had decimated Russell and one of his cases on the witness stand. She is petite and beautiful and aggressive in the courtroom, which has earned her the nickname of "Killer Cupcake". As much as he knows he shouldn't like her, he does. There's just something about her attitude that really speaks to him. He is also very attracted to her, which he acknowledges to himself and to her, though he knows that doing anything about it until the current crisis is over would be a bad idea. I loved just how well he understands her and is able to deal with her in all her moods. He really endeared himself to me when he stood up for her against her horrible oldest brother.
Penny is a real firecracker. She is intense, strong and independent. She will do whatever it takes to win her clients' cases, including going head to head with a certain FBI agent. He's sparked some interesting fantasies in her mind ever since their first encounter five months ago. One of the things she likes best about him is that he can give as good as he gets in an argument with her. When they discover that she and her client are the targets, she has to rely on Russell for his protection, a point that is both good and bad. It's good, because he is definitely motivated to protect his investigation. It's also bad because she discovers just how much Russell gets her, an occurrence that hasn't happened with anyone else. It also means that she has a hard time getting away with anything around him. I loved the fact that she respected him enough to follow his directions, but that all falls apart toward the end when Zac is endangered and she does something really stupid. Fortunately she realizes her mistake before it's too late and things turn out okay. The last chapter shows just how well he understands her and brings them together in a most satisfying way.
The action and suspense throughout the book is nonstop. The bad guy is definitely into mind games as well as his criminal activities and Russell and Penny are kept on their toes. His phone calls to Penny are downright creepy and his ability to know just what they are doing was frustrating to them. The final showdown was really intense and there were moments when I wondered if someone was going to end up really hurt. I really enjoyed seeing the way that Penny dealt with all the restrictions, even when it put her in danger. I loved her interactions with the marshal Brent, and really hope to see him get a story of his own.
Penny is a top notch defender. When one of her clients comes to her because of threats against her life and that of her son, Penny also finds herself in the line of fire. Russ is on the spot to save her and her father, because he had been waiting to meet with her. He needs help from her and her client to put a particularly nasty criminal away. This man is also connected to the death of her client's husband and she has information that will help Russell nail him.
I loved Russell and Penny and the relationship between them. As an agent, Russell really doesn't like defense attorneys, because they work to free the same people he wants behind bars. Five months earlier Penny had decimated Russell and one of his cases on the witness stand. She is petite and beautiful and aggressive in the courtroom, which has earned her the nickname of "Killer Cupcake". As much as he knows he shouldn't like her, he does. There's just something about her attitude that really speaks to him. He is also very attracted to her, which he acknowledges to himself and to her, though he knows that doing anything about it until the current crisis is over would be a bad idea. I loved just how well he understands her and is able to deal with her in all her moods. He really endeared himself to me when he stood up for her against her horrible oldest brother.
Penny is a real firecracker. She is intense, strong and independent. She will do whatever it takes to win her clients' cases, including going head to head with a certain FBI agent. He's sparked some interesting fantasies in her mind ever since their first encounter five months ago. One of the things she likes best about him is that he can give as good as he gets in an argument with her. When they discover that she and her client are the targets, she has to rely on Russell for his protection, a point that is both good and bad. It's good, because he is definitely motivated to protect his investigation. It's also bad because she discovers just how much Russell gets her, an occurrence that hasn't happened with anyone else. It also means that she has a hard time getting away with anything around him. I loved the fact that she respected him enough to follow his directions, but that all falls apart toward the end when Zac is endangered and she does something really stupid. Fortunately she realizes her mistake before it's too late and things turn out okay. The last chapter shows just how well he understands her and brings them together in a most satisfying way.
The action and suspense throughout the book is nonstop. The bad guy is definitely into mind games as well as his criminal activities and Russell and Penny are kept on their toes. His phone calls to Penny are downright creepy and his ability to know just what they are doing was frustrating to them. The final showdown was really intense and there were moments when I wondered if someone was going to end up really hurt. I really enjoyed seeing the way that Penny dealt with all the restrictions, even when it put her in danger. I loved her interactions with the marshal Brent, and really hope to see him get a story of his own.
May 25, 2014
I really enjoyed this one, provided by the publisher. If you're looking for a no-holds-barred all-action romantic suspense, then this probably isn't it, although the suspense is good. Instead, it's the dynamic between the hero and heroine which makes this one sizzle and sparkle.
The mouthy, sassy, perky heroine and reliable, hunky, conscientious hero combo isn't new, but I just really enjoyed how this one was written. It was credible for them to have interacted professionally and gotten to know of one another prior to this story. They're both in the legal/law enforcement community. The attraction between them is already there, but it doesn't rely on the nauseating bolt-of-lightening scenario and, well, I just loved them.
The heroine is just a wonderful character. A tough-as-nails spitfire in a sexy, stiletto-heeled package, but she's not perfect. There are moments of self-doubt and she needs to constantly prove herself. She also doesn't react well to pressure beyond the courtroom, and does something pretty daft, but even that is not TSTL, and feels absolutely right.
The hero is also great. His attraction to the heroine has an inevitability about it - he knows he's going to end up with the mouthy lawyer, and it's an enjoyable ride watching him come to terms with that.
The plot is solid and enough to keep the pace up, but for me this one was all about the hero and heroine. Oh, and it helps that it's set in Chicago, my hometown!
4 stars. I really like it and I can't wait for the next one by this author.
The mouthy, sassy, perky heroine and reliable, hunky, conscientious hero combo isn't new, but I just really enjoyed how this one was written. It was credible for them to have interacted professionally and gotten to know of one another prior to this story. They're both in the legal/law enforcement community. The attraction between them is already there, but it doesn't rely on the nauseating bolt-of-lightening scenario and, well, I just loved them.
The heroine is just a wonderful character. A tough-as-nails spitfire in a sexy, stiletto-heeled package, but she's not perfect. There are moments of self-doubt and she needs to constantly prove herself. She also doesn't react well to pressure beyond the courtroom, and does something pretty daft, but even that is not TSTL, and feels absolutely right.
The hero is also great. His attraction to the heroine has an inevitability about it - he knows he's going to end up with the mouthy lawyer, and it's an enjoyable ride watching him come to terms with that.
The plot is solid and enough to keep the pace up, but for me this one was all about the hero and heroine. Oh, and it helps that it's set in Chicago, my hometown!
4 stars. I really like it and I can't wait for the next one by this author.
June 18, 2014
Five months ago, Special Agent Russell “Russ” Voight sat on the witness stand while Penny Hennings decimated him with her aggressive cross-examination skills. Today, he put himself between her and sniper fire. Their relationship is extremely complex – it is built on professional admiration and lust.
Adrienne Giordano has ramped up the adrenaline in this installment. I love the banter between Russ and Penny. It was very amusing to watch the interplay between these two. The dialogue is all foreplay leading up to HUGE climax (pun intended).
I recommend this to all romantic suspense readers. You will understand while these two professionals find it impossible to maintain objectivity.
I am still waiting on Brian’s story but now I want to append my request to include a story for Deputy U.S. Marshal Brent Thompson. FYI, I do not care about a story being written for David Hennings – Penny's asshat of an older brother.
This review also appears on Harlequin Junkie.
Disclosure: This book was provided to me free of charge for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
“He’s good. I destroyed him on the stand a few months back and he still talks to me. Heck, he saved my life today.”Bring Colin Heath to justice was what Russ wants and he needs Elizabeth Brooks, Penny’s client, to help him. However, Heath has other plan for Elizabeth; like silencing her permanently - hence the shooting at the courthouse.
Adrienne Giordano has ramped up the adrenaline in this installment. I love the banter between Russ and Penny. It was very amusing to watch the interplay between these two. The dialogue is all foreplay leading up to HUGE climax (pun intended).
I recommend this to all romantic suspense readers. You will understand while these two professionals find it impossible to maintain objectivity.
I am still waiting on Brian’s story but now I want to append my request to include a story for Deputy U.S. Marshal Brent Thompson. FYI, I do not care about a story being written for David Hennings – Penny's asshat of an older brother.
This review also appears on Harlequin Junkie.
Disclosure: This book was provided to me free of charge for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
September 3, 2016
Oh, this book. Where do I start? I loved it even more than its predecessor (The Prosecutor), and I really, really liked that one. (I knew before I was even halfway done with that one that I needed to read Penny's story. Can I request that Brent be next as a hero? Please? ;) )
I adored Penny and Russ--or "Killer Cupcake" and Russell, as they snarkily referred to each other. If I'd been reading a print version and using a real highlighter instead of a virtual one, I'm pretty sure I would have run out of ink from highlighting all the parts I especially enjoyed.
There's a few. :)
The story starts--literally--with a bang. Penny and her father, both defense attorneys, are giving a press conference on the federal courthouse steps. Fortunately, Russ, a special agent with the FBI, is there--because we're not even a half a dozen paragraphs in when shots are fired. Russ reacts immediately. Penny doesn't--so he lands on top of her, which leads to an...ahem...interesting situation.
Oh. My. Gosh. I almost snorted Pepsi Max out of my nose while reading that.
These two just never stop their verbal battle, and it's awesome--the ultimate in witty foreplay, and it's written so, so well. The two first met five months before the novel's start, when Penny practically decimated Russ on the witness stand. That's when Russ's fellow agents gave her the "Killer Cupcake" moniker, and Russ found himself perversely attracted to her even then.
The gunshots that start this novel end up being a warning for Penny, and a precursor of threats to come. When she gets the first threatening phone call, she's at a coffee shop with Russ. He pulls her into the public restroom for privacy, as she's understandably upset. Once she hangs up, Russ grabs a hold of her arm in an attempt to keep her upright.
This is why I love this woman. Even under duress, she's got a snappy comeback. And the wherewithal to realize that--hello--public bathroom floor = way beyond disgusting.
Russ gets her, as no other guy has before. They challenge each other and drive each other crazy, all while having (figurative) killer chemistry.
There's a lot of tension and danger with the psycho who's trying to make their lives a living hell, and Adrienne Giordano brings Zac back from book one and puts him in danger. (Mean trick, Ms. Giordano. I wasn't sure my heart could take it.) This book had me on the edge of my seat, feverishly turning pages. My roommate/coworker (we were on day two of our chaperoning duties on the eighth grade class trip as I read this. I didn't ride a single ride until I'd finished reading--it's that good!) had to keep asking if I was all right. I gasped, I laughed, I snorted, I clutched at my chest in horror--sometimes I even had two or more reactions on a page. This story had me all over the place emotionally, and I loved every minute of it.
Spoiler alert--we get our HEA. (You were worried, I know.) And a truly fantastic and heartfelt speech--plus white gummy bears--play a part.
Seriously, how can you not adore these two? I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series. Did I mention I'm hoping to see U.S. Marshall Brent get his own HEA? Yes? ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 white gummy bears / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I adored Penny and Russ--or "Killer Cupcake" and Russell, as they snarkily referred to each other. If I'd been reading a print version and using a real highlighter instead of a virtual one, I'm pretty sure I would have run out of ink from highlighting all the parts I especially enjoyed.
There's a few. :)
The story starts--literally--with a bang. Penny and her father, both defense attorneys, are giving a press conference on the federal courthouse steps. Fortunately, Russ, a special agent with the FBI, is there--because we're not even a half a dozen paragraphs in when shots are fired. Russ reacts immediately. Penny doesn't--so he lands on top of her, which leads to an...ahem...interesting situation.
“Russell, I think I’m hit.”
“I don’t think you’re hit.”
“Then what’s that damned poking?”
“Uh, sorry,” he said. “That’s, uh...ah, cripes...it’s...me. It happens sometimes. Adrenaline.”
What? She focused on Russ’s body, the weight of it, the location of their various body parts and— Oh, stop it. Men. “You have an erection?” she muttered, hoping her father wouldn’t hear. “Now?”
“Hey, it’s involuntary.” Some nut was shooting at them and the FBI agent, the one who had just saved her life, had an erection. Unbelievable. “Well, get. It. Off.”
Oh. My. Gosh. I almost snorted Pepsi Max out of my nose while reading that.
These two just never stop their verbal battle, and it's awesome--the ultimate in witty foreplay, and it's written so, so well. The two first met five months before the novel's start, when Penny practically decimated Russ on the witness stand. That's when Russ's fellow agents gave her the "Killer Cupcake" moniker, and Russ found himself perversely attracted to her even then.
The gunshots that start this novel end up being a warning for Penny, and a precursor of threats to come. When she gets the first threatening phone call, she's at a coffee shop with Russ. He pulls her into the public restroom for privacy, as she's understandably upset. Once she hangs up, Russ grabs a hold of her arm in an attempt to keep her upright.
"If I let go, you're not going to face-plant, are you?"
Penny scoffed. "On this floor? Not on your life."
This is why I love this woman. Even under duress, she's got a snappy comeback. And the wherewithal to realize that--hello--public bathroom floor = way beyond disgusting.
Russ gets her, as no other guy has before. They challenge each other and drive each other crazy, all while having (figurative) killer chemistry.
She snuggled into him, enjoying the banter and the ease between them. Russ had an ego for sure, but he didn’t take every comment as a personal affront or an implied message. He let her be snarky without feeling offended. A lot of men wouldn’t. In her experience, some men couldn’t handle her direct manner and she’d often found herself apologizing for something she’d said. For being herself.
Not a place a woman should find herself.
And somehow, with Russ, she never did.
There's a lot of tension and danger with the psycho who's trying to make their lives a living hell, and Adrienne Giordano brings Zac back from book one and puts him in danger. (Mean trick, Ms. Giordano. I wasn't sure my heart could take it.) This book had me on the edge of my seat, feverishly turning pages. My roommate/coworker (we were on day two of our chaperoning duties on the eighth grade class trip as I read this. I didn't ride a single ride until I'd finished reading--it's that good!) had to keep asking if I was all right. I gasped, I laughed, I snorted, I clutched at my chest in horror--sometimes I even had two or more reactions on a page. This story had me all over the place emotionally, and I loved every minute of it.
Spoiler alert--we get our HEA. (You were worried, I know.) And a truly fantastic and heartfelt speech--plus white gummy bears--play a part.
“Special Agent Voight, you’d better not break my heart. I’d have to stab you if you did.”
“Talk about romance.”
“Just warning you.”
Seriously, how can you not adore these two? I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series. Did I mention I'm hoping to see U.S. Marshall Brent get his own HEA? Yes? ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 white gummy bears / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2014
Loved, Loved, Loved this book!!
FBI Agent Russ Voight was shredded to ribbons a few months ago by Penny Hennings, he could and should have hated her for that alone. Penny Hennings was by far one of the toughest defense attorney's he had ever come across, Russ hated defense attorney's but there was something about Penny and her spunk that he had to admire. He had to admire other things about her as well.
Penny Hennings tough as nails in court, loyal, smart and knows how to play up her assets. She isn't afraid to put in long hours of research and leg work to get answers. Always trying to prove she earned her position in her father's law firm. She is one of the hardest working attorney's in the firm. Taking the tough cases. This time however she may have taken a case that will get her or someone she loves killed.
Shots are fired in broad daylight in the middle of a crowd of reporters all wanting to interview Penny and her father. Russ acts on reflex from years on the job. Who was the target Penny or her father? That question is quickly answered and protection is arranged for the entire Hennings family. Being shadowed is not something any of them enjoy.
Russ and Penny clash over her client a deal is made.
This book was full of action, twists and turns and tugs at your emotions. Adrienne did a wonderful job on this book. I could not put it down and finished it in one night. It was worth the lack of sleep. This is one you will not want to miss and will want your friends to read so that you can talk to them about it. You might as well pick up a few copies to pass out.
FBI Agent Russ Voight was shredded to ribbons a few months ago by Penny Hennings, he could and should have hated her for that alone. Penny Hennings was by far one of the toughest defense attorney's he had ever come across, Russ hated defense attorney's but there was something about Penny and her spunk that he had to admire. He had to admire other things about her as well.
Penny Hennings tough as nails in court, loyal, smart and knows how to play up her assets. She isn't afraid to put in long hours of research and leg work to get answers. Always trying to prove she earned her position in her father's law firm. She is one of the hardest working attorney's in the firm. Taking the tough cases. This time however she may have taken a case that will get her or someone she loves killed.
Shots are fired in broad daylight in the middle of a crowd of reporters all wanting to interview Penny and her father. Russ acts on reflex from years on the job. Who was the target Penny or her father? That question is quickly answered and protection is arranged for the entire Hennings family. Being shadowed is not something any of them enjoy.
Russ and Penny clash over her client a deal is made.
This book was full of action, twists and turns and tugs at your emotions. Adrienne did a wonderful job on this book. I could not put it down and finished it in one night. It was worth the lack of sleep. This is one you will not want to miss and will want your friends to read so that you can talk to them about it. You might as well pick up a few copies to pass out.
July 22, 2014
The author is a great writer--I had issues with another book, but I wanted to try again. Unfortunately, the same kind of plot issues bothered me.
The heroine's brother is kidnapped. He's been under federal protection, and the FBI agent hero is vowing that he'll find her brother. So what do the hero and heroine decide to do? Consummate their relationship, of course! It didn't gel for me. Maybe for comfort if they'd already been together, maybe if there was nothing else that they could do and so they clung to each other, but this was more like: Oh, my brother's been kidnapped, I feel bad. What could make me not feel bad? Hmm, I like sex, let's go.
I also didn't get the villain. He calls the heroine a lot to threaten her, and because he wants her to convince her client not to testify against him. Then he kidnaps her brother, and calls to have more incriminating conversations, which she could've been recording (I don't think she was, but how could he be sure about that?). So... I don't know why he's doing anything. He wanted to derail the first case against him, but even if that case fell through, he's just kidnapped someone. And admitted it over the phone. In the book, I guess he was planning to kill everyone and leave no witnesses, but he'd still be a target for the feds, so what would it matter if the first case against him was dismissed or not--he'd still have to leave town. Apparently the villain is some financial mastermind, so maybe I missed something in his grand plan, but none of this made sense to me. That and hating the romance makes me sadly decide to steer clear of this author, even though she can be really good at other moments.
The heroine's brother is kidnapped. He's been under federal protection, and the FBI agent hero is vowing that he'll find her brother. So what do the hero and heroine decide to do? Consummate their relationship, of course! It didn't gel for me. Maybe for comfort if they'd already been together, maybe if there was nothing else that they could do and so they clung to each other, but this was more like: Oh, my brother's been kidnapped, I feel bad. What could make me not feel bad? Hmm, I like sex, let's go.
I also didn't get the villain. He calls the heroine a lot to threaten her, and because he wants her to convince her client not to testify against him. Then he kidnaps her brother, and calls to have more incriminating conversations, which she could've been recording (I don't think she was, but how could he be sure about that?). So... I don't know why he's doing anything. He wanted to derail the first case against him, but even if that case fell through, he's just kidnapped someone. And admitted it over the phone. In the book, I guess he was planning to kill everyone and leave no witnesses, but he'd still be a target for the feds, so what would it matter if the first case against him was dismissed or not--he'd still have to leave town. Apparently the villain is some financial mastermind, so maybe I missed something in his grand plan, but none of this made sense to me. That and hating the romance makes me sadly decide to steer clear of this author, even though she can be really good at other moments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2014
The author delivers another great suspenseful story in The Defender! Penny has spent a lifetime proving her independence and the fact she deserves to be considered a valuable member of successful family of lawyers. What starts out to be a relatively easy case quickly turns deadly when the con artist her client is going to testify against threatens not only her client, but Penny and other members of her family as well.
Russell Voight knows a thing or two about con artists and his goal is clear: Make Colin Heath pay for all of the pain he caused his victims. The key to his victory? He has to deal with Penny Hennings and convince her it’s safe for her client to testify. His brief history as a witness being grilled by Penny puts him on the offense the moment they run into each other again…a very embarrassing run in to say the least!
Fireworks from the case and between Russell and Penny keep you turning the pages in this newest release by Adrienne Giordano. Wonderful story telling and plenty of romance, suspense and action will make you fall in love with the Hennings family all over again!
Russell Voight knows a thing or two about con artists and his goal is clear: Make Colin Heath pay for all of the pain he caused his victims. The key to his victory? He has to deal with Penny Hennings and convince her it’s safe for her client to testify. His brief history as a witness being grilled by Penny puts him on the offense the moment they run into each other again…a very embarrassing run in to say the least!
Fireworks from the case and between Russell and Penny keep you turning the pages in this newest release by Adrienne Giordano. Wonderful story telling and plenty of romance, suspense and action will make you fall in love with the Hennings family all over again!
April 30, 2014
Another awesome book by Adrienne Giordano! I loved The Prosecutor so I was thrilled to read The Defender. The first page sucks you in with a shoot out involving Russell, Penny, Penny's father, and the mystery man that is shooting at them. The Defender was jam packed with suspense that always keeps you guessing. Elizabeth enlists Penny as her attorney seeking justice for the untimely murder of her husband. When the man responsible for Elizabeth's husbands murder threatens Penny the story becomes a whirlwind of thrills. Russell being a FBI agent does what he can to keep Penny and her family safe, but when Penny's brother is kidnapped she takes matters into her own hands.
The Defender is a quick read full of suspense, mystery, romance, and will not disappoint whomever reads it.
The Defender is a quick read full of suspense, mystery, romance, and will not disappoint whomever reads it.
May 20, 2014
I highly recommend this book. It's so good I couldn't put it down and read it in a day. There was humor, suspense, and passion. The two main characters Russ and Penny just have chemistry that sizzles the page. I absolutely loved the banter between the two. Then thrown in the danger you have one hell of a book.
May 30, 2014
This novel is set in Chicago, and pits a fierce criminal attorney known for her aggressive cross examinations of witnesses and an FBI agent who has been working a case for a year and determined to close it with an arrest.
Full review to follow on.......http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com
Full review to follow on.......http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com
July 30, 2014
What happened to this author?This is the second book by her that I didn't enjoy! The heroine was just so freaking annoying and so was the romance.
July 3, 2019
Light and unpretentious writing. Believable plot and likeable characters. Humorous internal monologues and no unnecessary drama.
July 26, 2014
Oh my gosh! This story left me all giddy inside after I finished reading it! That last chapter just got my eyes swelling in happiness~ Awwww
I have to say Adrienne knows how to keep me in tack, and hook! Right from the beginning she gave us what we wanted and the pace of the story just brought us right in to what was going on. The adventure! She didn’t let us dwindle on with slow information but threw us into the action with gun fires!
I had to pause just to get my bearing together because I thought I was missing something, like the backstory or the beginning but nope, she just dumped you into the loop and off you went on a roller coaster ride!
And man did I really had fun. Both these characters were a battle of wills right from the beginning and I already knew that this was going to get nasty, but in a good way between the two. And with their fierce attraction to each other and not denying it at the earliest opportunity they got, I was right aboard.
Sure there were high tension between the two because of their careers and current missions but they were so blunt and to the point with their attraction from the start to each other that I didn’t expect that would shock me so but it did. And I was really happy about it. A really great way to get to the heart of it and lay it down on the battlefield. Love it!
And shall I say both these characters are stubborn and commending as Heck! They will not back down what so ever! I surely thought it was an unlikely chance for them to get together but Russell is one Heck of a crazy man to fall in love with Penny. Not that Penny doesn’t deserve to be loved but man can she man handle a grown man! I truly applaud her.
Penny is one strong and independent woman. She won’t take no for an answer easily and she will get what she wants one way or another, unless she promised you otherwise. She tough and to the point but is in control of her self and can get a bit crazy with her work but it’s all in defending her clients. Her flaws: speaking out of turn, judging folks, always blaming herself, clean freak, quick to counter attack (verbally), bossy and mouthy. But it works in her line of work.
Russell is one powerful dude but was cut straight and man handle, for the first time and hopefully not exactly the last time *wink wink*, by the one and only Penny. He’s strong and attentive to his work and can be overbearing but that’s just him doing his job. He’s also caring and loving. Crying is is weakness because he can’t handle it of others, especially girls cry. He has pride and holds it highly with that, if he loses his trust in you, well, things will look bad. Flaws…..? Nahh, I don’t think he has any. Heehee~
One thing I super found interesting and love about these two were that they understood each other and use that to their advantage. Because they were so similar they got along well when others would have scoffed off already. And their banters were to die for. I loved enery tension and heart beating second of it! It got me on the edge of my seat waiting for their next move and I wasn’t disappointed.
And one thing I found I super love about this couple were at the last couple of pages. They still managed to surprise each other. That’s just…..awwww~
Plus, we got to see Zac again! Penny already made her introduction in Zac’s novel, The Prosecutor, so we couldn’t leave him out in Penny’s. He has a pretty huge role in this one as Penny did in Zac’s novel so it’s pretty even between the two. I would have loved to see more of their eldest brother David but…we’ll see. I want to get his side of the story and maybe a compromise??
But I’m looking at Jenna to have her own story and maybe even to ha e it with Brent? Or would David be a better fit?? *shrugs*
But l definitely loved this book and I oh so definitely enjoyed action!
This book was provided by the author for an honest review~
Rating: 4.5 out 5
I have to say Adrienne knows how to keep me in tack, and hook! Right from the beginning she gave us what we wanted and the pace of the story just brought us right in to what was going on. The adventure! She didn’t let us dwindle on with slow information but threw us into the action with gun fires!
I had to pause just to get my bearing together because I thought I was missing something, like the backstory or the beginning but nope, she just dumped you into the loop and off you went on a roller coaster ride!
And man did I really had fun. Both these characters were a battle of wills right from the beginning and I already knew that this was going to get nasty, but in a good way between the two. And with their fierce attraction to each other and not denying it at the earliest opportunity they got, I was right aboard.
Sure there were high tension between the two because of their careers and current missions but they were so blunt and to the point with their attraction from the start to each other that I didn’t expect that would shock me so but it did. And I was really happy about it. A really great way to get to the heart of it and lay it down on the battlefield. Love it!
And shall I say both these characters are stubborn and commending as Heck! They will not back down what so ever! I surely thought it was an unlikely chance for them to get together but Russell is one Heck of a crazy man to fall in love with Penny. Not that Penny doesn’t deserve to be loved but man can she man handle a grown man! I truly applaud her.
Penny is one strong and independent woman. She won’t take no for an answer easily and she will get what she wants one way or another, unless she promised you otherwise. She tough and to the point but is in control of her self and can get a bit crazy with her work but it’s all in defending her clients. Her flaws: speaking out of turn, judging folks, always blaming herself, clean freak, quick to counter attack (verbally), bossy and mouthy. But it works in her line of work.
Russell is one powerful dude but was cut straight and man handle, for the first time and hopefully not exactly the last time *wink wink*, by the one and only Penny. He’s strong and attentive to his work and can be overbearing but that’s just him doing his job. He’s also caring and loving. Crying is is weakness because he can’t handle it of others, especially girls cry. He has pride and holds it highly with that, if he loses his trust in you, well, things will look bad. Flaws…..? Nahh, I don’t think he has any. Heehee~
One thing I super found interesting and love about these two were that they understood each other and use that to their advantage. Because they were so similar they got along well when others would have scoffed off already. And their banters were to die for. I loved enery tension and heart beating second of it! It got me on the edge of my seat waiting for their next move and I wasn’t disappointed.
And one thing I found I super love about this couple were at the last couple of pages. They still managed to surprise each other. That’s just…..awwww~
Plus, we got to see Zac again! Penny already made her introduction in Zac’s novel, The Prosecutor, so we couldn’t leave him out in Penny’s. He has a pretty huge role in this one as Penny did in Zac’s novel so it’s pretty even between the two. I would have loved to see more of their eldest brother David but…we’ll see. I want to get his side of the story and maybe a compromise??
But I’m looking at Jenna to have her own story and maybe even to ha e it with Brent? Or would David be a better fit?? *shrugs*
But l definitely loved this book and I oh so definitely enjoyed action!
This book was provided by the author for an honest review~
Rating: 4.5 out 5
May 31, 2014
Readers are reintroduced to Penny Hennings of the Hennings & Solomon law firm when the feisty, sometimes abrasive defensive attorney takes on a client that could get her killed. The law firm is known for taking on cases that are impossible to win and Penny and her dad, Gerald Hennings, are the best. If you don't believe it, just ask FBI agent Russ Voight. She ripped his testimony to shreds on the witness stand and he fell in love with Penny because of it.
In the midst of another case, the two meet again during a shoot-out on the courthouse steps where it turns out, Penny is the target. Everybody in the Henning family eventually becomes fair game and needs protection but Russ secretly appoints himself Penny's private bodyguard, despite the fact the FBI assigns one to her. The criminal element of Chicago is out in full force and it's up to Russ to eliminate one in particular and save Penny and her family.
THE DEFENDER starts off with a bang and returns readers to Chicago crime and the characters we met in THE PROSECUTOR. Readers will also meet new characters including a brother in Boston that this reader is dying to know more about. Penny is still the headache she was in The Prosecutor, but this time you get a feel for her emotional side and her skepticism of romantic love and the "happy ever after". Russ is every woman's dream and he doesn't hesitate to fall in love, he just needs to convince his "Killer Cupcake" that being in love is a good thing.
Author, Adrienne Giordano is drawing us deeper into the lives of the Hennings and introducing us to more exciting characters. The suspense portion of her novel is explosive and the romance is endearing. There must be another Intrigue in the works because there has been no wedding for either of the couples and there are subtle secrets and innuendos that need to be dealt with. Because she does it all so well, it brings about frustration for the reader but excitement and anticipation of the next book.
In the midst of another case, the two meet again during a shoot-out on the courthouse steps where it turns out, Penny is the target. Everybody in the Henning family eventually becomes fair game and needs protection but Russ secretly appoints himself Penny's private bodyguard, despite the fact the FBI assigns one to her. The criminal element of Chicago is out in full force and it's up to Russ to eliminate one in particular and save Penny and her family.
THE DEFENDER starts off with a bang and returns readers to Chicago crime and the characters we met in THE PROSECUTOR. Readers will also meet new characters including a brother in Boston that this reader is dying to know more about. Penny is still the headache she was in The Prosecutor, but this time you get a feel for her emotional side and her skepticism of romantic love and the "happy ever after". Russ is every woman's dream and he doesn't hesitate to fall in love, he just needs to convince his "Killer Cupcake" that being in love is a good thing.
Author, Adrienne Giordano is drawing us deeper into the lives of the Hennings and introducing us to more exciting characters. The suspense portion of her novel is explosive and the romance is endearing. There must be another Intrigue in the works because there has been no wedding for either of the couples and there are subtle secrets and innuendos that need to be dealt with. Because she does it all so well, it brings about frustration for the reader but excitement and anticipation of the next book.
May 25, 2014
The Defender is Adrienne Giordano's newest book due for release June 2014· I received a copy from the author for an honest review. The h/H in this novel is a fbi agent, sexy and definitely alpha male and Penny, a strong minded defense attorney. Russ currently investigating a fraud case and Penny the attorney for the widow of a man involved before his death. A previous case had Penny questioning Russ, she had annihilated him on the stand, Russ is still attracted to Penny and she has the HOTS for him!! He has a love/hate relationship with defense attorneys. Russ has given the nickname Killer Cupcake to Penny and I love that he refers a lot to that when going through things in his head. Having to work together to bring an end to the case, brings some sizzling chemistry out! AT times I thought the pages would burn my fingers. Trust, compromise and dangerous situations keep you glued to the book, cheering on this couple. Russ and Penny will make you smile,laugh at their thoughts running through their heads and hope for the happy ending. I encourage you to read The Prosecutor first but this book is a stand alone. My hope is there are more books so I can find out if anything happens between Brent and Jenna. You could feel the vibes between these 2. Then there is David, Penny's older brother. He's living in Boston practicing anything but criminal law and away from family
May 25, 2014
This book was awesome, Adrienne has done it again with another awesome book with characters you will fall in love with. This books sucks you right in from the first chapter and doesn’t let go until the end. Penny is tough as nails Defense attorney who doesn’t back down for anything. Russell is a smart, sexy FBI agent trying to find enough information to put the guy away for life. Penny and her dad are walking into the court house one day and someone starts shooting. Russell is there and throws Penny to the ground when she freezes during the shooting. Penny’s client has information that Russell needs to arrest and convict the guys he has been investigating for a while. Penny gets a call from the person responsible for the shooting and he tells Penny that she must top her client from testifying or else more people will die. Russell and Penny needs to work together to find the evidence and save her client. That is until Penny’s brother gets kidnapped, then all bets are off, Penny will do anything to save her brother. This book is full of romance, action and adventure.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
June 1, 2014
Adrienne Giordano is outstanding as always. Penny and Russell maintain her reputation for creating couples that are strong, fascinating, and droolworthy. Love this couple and their story.
I loved Penny in The Prosecutor so I was thrilled to receive gift copy of her story; The Defender.
Tough guy FBI agent Russell Voight and Penny have faced off in court and the smart attorney worked him over well on the stand. He wants to hate her but he can't help admiring her intelligence almost as much as her irresistible body and personality. When a potential FBI witness approaches Penny to represent her in getting a deal for protection before she agrees to talk to the anyone from the bureau, the federal hunk is once again twisted in knots over the hot red-headed attorney. Before long it becomes necessary to protect Penny as well as the witness and of course, he wants to protect her body in a big way but tries to resist their attraction. Penny doesn't see any reason they can't act on those desires and doesn't make his job easy in any way.
5 star rating for review sites.
I loved Penny in The Prosecutor so I was thrilled to receive gift copy of her story; The Defender.
Tough guy FBI agent Russell Voight and Penny have faced off in court and the smart attorney worked him over well on the stand. He wants to hate her but he can't help admiring her intelligence almost as much as her irresistible body and personality. When a potential FBI witness approaches Penny to represent her in getting a deal for protection before she agrees to talk to the anyone from the bureau, the federal hunk is once again twisted in knots over the hot red-headed attorney. Before long it becomes necessary to protect Penny as well as the witness and of course, he wants to protect her body in a big way but tries to resist their attraction. Penny doesn't see any reason they can't act on those desires and doesn't make his job easy in any way.
5 star rating for review sites.
February 15, 2019
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
The Defender by Adrienne Giordano is a fast-paced romantic suspense novel that will keep your heart pounding and hands sweating to figure out what is going to happen next to the characters.
If there is one thing I enjoyed most about this book is how Adrienne kept me on my toes with the characters in the story. She kept me on the edge of my seat, to find out if the characters would ever get the bad guy and get their justice finally on what was occurring.
The Defender was my first book from Adrienne Giordano and the minute I started reading chapter one, I knew I was going to have a hard time putting down this book. Let’s just say Adrienne opens up the book with a heart pounding scene. From the beginning to the very end, it was a book that was full of action and suspense.
The Defender by Adrienne Giordano is a fast-paced romantic suspense novel that will keep your heart pounding and hands sweating to figure out what is going to happen next to the characters.
If there is one thing I enjoyed most about this book is how Adrienne kept me on my toes with the characters in the story. She kept me on the edge of my seat, to find out if the characters would ever get the bad guy and get their justice finally on what was occurring.
The Defender was my first book from Adrienne Giordano and the minute I started reading chapter one, I knew I was going to have a hard time putting down this book. Let’s just say Adrienne opens up the book with a heart pounding scene. From the beginning to the very end, it was a book that was full of action and suspense.
February 21, 2015
Special Agent Russ Voight is dedicated to his job. He's determined to bring in Colin Heath. This man has stolen people's life savings and thinks nothing of murdering anyone who gets in his way. He's a dangerous predator. To do this Agent Voight has to convince the killer cupcake (aka Penny Hennings) to work with him. This won't be easy. She's a pit bull when it comes to protecting her clients. This lawyer takes no prisoners. Can they work together to end Heath's reign of terror? The love-hate relationship between Russ and Penny is amazing. This feisty heroine and by the book lawman are hot for each other, but neither will risk letting a killer escape. I love their interaction. The dialogue is snappy and the danger that surrounds them heightens their attraction. The story is gripping. I enjoyed the surprising twist and turns. They kept me on the edge of my seat. Adrienne Giordano skillfully tells a story of love and duty. The Defender is a roller coaster ride from start to finish
May 31, 2014
Loved it, fast paced and full of action, The Defender continues the saga of the Hennings family. In this book we get to know Penning Hennings who is a "tough as nails" private attorney. Penny's life as well as that of her family is threatened when her client Elizabeth is getting prepared to turn over evidence against criminal Colin Health and his stock fraud scheme. Enter Russ Voight, FBI agent sent to protect Penny, her client Elizabeth and Elizabeth's young son.
The attraction between Penny and Russ heats up as they are thrown together to find Colin Heath before he gets to Penny or her client, seems Colin has eyes everywhere and is always one step ahead. Lots of action follows and not only in the bedroom.
I found this book hard to put down and enjoyed the characters as well.
The attraction between Penny and Russ heats up as they are thrown together to find Colin Heath before he gets to Penny or her client, seems Colin has eyes everywhere and is always one step ahead. Lots of action follows and not only in the bedroom.
I found this book hard to put down and enjoyed the characters as well.
September 28, 2014
The Defender by Adrienne Giordano
Penny Hennings is a defense attorney and when shots are fired and Ross Voight, FBI agent is called to protect her, it's instant attraction. He knows she is smart and capable as an attorney, but as a woman, is tempting him beyond distraction. The situation gets tense as the "bad guy" gets personal by breaking into Penny's home and threatening her family. Ross and Penny must work together to catch the criminal while protecting a witness.
I really liked the connection between Penny and Ross. They totally got each other. And the fact that she was tough on him in the courtroom in the past made him appreciate her intelligence. Super classy.
Favorite quote: "Hello, Confusion, thanks for visiting."
I received this book from the author.
Penny Hennings is a defense attorney and when shots are fired and Ross Voight, FBI agent is called to protect her, it's instant attraction. He knows she is smart and capable as an attorney, but as a woman, is tempting him beyond distraction. The situation gets tense as the "bad guy" gets personal by breaking into Penny's home and threatening her family. Ross and Penny must work together to catch the criminal while protecting a witness.
I really liked the connection between Penny and Ross. They totally got each other. And the fact that she was tough on him in the courtroom in the past made him appreciate her intelligence. Super classy.
Favorite quote: "Hello, Confusion, thanks for visiting."
I received this book from the author.
June 5, 2014
There are so many things that I love about The Defender by Adrienne Giordano. …I just don’t know where to start. It begins with edge of your seat action as shots rang out while Penny Hennings and her father were on the courthouse steps. And then Special Agent Russell Voight comes crashing into the picture. The fast paced beginning really drew me in to this story of a pump-and-dump scheme turned deadly. The details were spot on and I could clearly visualize the action, characters’ thoughts, scenarios, and tense moments as they were happening.Read More
I received an e-arc of The Defender from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review and purchased a paperback copy, thank you.
I received an e-arc of The Defender from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review and purchased a paperback copy, thank you.
January 26, 2016
This book is all about Penny. She is still the staunch lawyer but this time she is almost killed by a shooter that shoots while her and her father are on the court house steps. Penny is trying to help Elizabeth. Russ is trying to help Penny. Russ is an FBI agent she shredded on the stand but as much as he hates lawyers he loves Penny! Zac, from the previous book, her brother is kidnapped and she will go through all sorts of lengths to get him back. Thank goodness Russ has her back as he keeps a close eye on her to keep her from getting killed.
This book you knew who the bad guy was the whole time but you just didn't know when he would strike, who he would hurt and what he would do!!!
Another good book by Adrienne!
This book you knew who the bad guy was the whole time but you just didn't know when he would strike, who he would hurt and what he would do!!!
Another good book by Adrienne!
June 1, 2014
I have to say, after reading The Prosecutor, I was quite looking forward to Penny’s story. The opening of the novel caught my attention and held it. We are introduced to Russell at the beginning, when a shooting takes place near the court where Penny is standing with her father and numerous other people. We learn that Penny has taken a case that demands involvement by the FBI, namely Russell. The man responsible continuously threatens Penny, and later her family, as romance unfolds between her and Russell. Read this book, you won’t be disappointed, since I sure wasn’t.
*I would like to state that I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
*I would like to state that I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
June 2, 2014
My Review
4.6 Star Review – The Defender
I recommend this book.
Could not put the book down.
Penny is shot at and Russell protects her. As they work together on a case to protect a mother and her son they are thrown together. The must decide if they should pursue a relationship that could affect the case or if they should wait until the case is over.
The case they are working takes a lot of twists and turns that end up effecting more then just the two of them.
Can they catch the bad guy before he hurts them or anyone else?
Love these two characters. Both were strong and could take care of themselves. When together could fiercely protect each other at the same time.
4.6 Star Review – The Defender
I recommend this book.
Could not put the book down.
Penny is shot at and Russell protects her. As they work together on a case to protect a mother and her son they are thrown together. The must decide if they should pursue a relationship that could affect the case or if they should wait until the case is over.
The case they are working takes a lot of twists and turns that end up effecting more then just the two of them.
Can they catch the bad guy before he hurts them or anyone else?
Love these two characters. Both were strong and could take care of themselves. When together could fiercely protect each other at the same time.
July 19, 2017
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads
June 9, 2014
Sassy Penny Hennings- Defense Attorney and a pretty dam good one at that. She is a Killer in the court room. That's until one of her clients is being threatened, which in turns finds her also in danger. When FBI Special Agent Russell Voight saves Penny and her father. He goes to her office to ask for her cooperation. He needs information from her client to put a con artist behind bars. He's also wanted in connection with her clients husbands death.
FBI Special Agent Russell (Russ) Voight won't forget what Penny Hennings did to him in the court room. She has been dubbed a nickname..Killer Cupcake. He needs her help. She is a pain in
his side always breaking some rules, going behind his back. Until she realizes she needs him. He'll do anything to protect her.
When Penny agrees she will work with him. and talk to her client to try and protect them and help Russ things get a little tense..
Their is a little attraction that develops between Russ and Penny while they're working together. They try not act in it. In the middle of case could be determential to the case if anyone found out.
When things get a little hairy and her brother Zac's life is on the line she will stop at nothing to bring him home safely even that means going against Russ.
What will happen to Penny's bother? Will they fight the attraction or act on it?
Buy the book. My first book from Adrienne and won't be my last.
One of my favorite lines:
"A sly, sexy grin spread over Penny's mouth. "You don't trust me?"
"Not one bit."
She batted her eyes. Oh, Russell. Flattery will get you everywhere."
At that, he had to laugh. "You're a piece of work. I'm glad I saved your life."
September 3, 2016
The Defender is even better than The Prosecutor, which was itself a strong romantic suspense from Giordano. While we had the story of Zac, Assistant DA, in The Prosecutor, we met his private lawyer sister Penny and enjoyed the sibling rivalry and banter throughout that book.
This one features Penny, who is in danger as she represents client Elizabeth and her son from her murdered husband's ex-partner. Penny is helping Elizabeth get immunity from her husband's stock scheme in exchange for testimony.
Though she is shot at while attending a press conference, Penny does not at first realize she too is in danger. FBI agent Russ has been attracted to the Killer Cupcake lawyer for a long time, despite her bulldog tactics to defend criminal clients. He would love to take down Colin Heath, murdered of Elizabeth's husband, and he tries to deny his feelings for Penny while keeping her and her client safe.
Giordano does a good job making the chemistry between the two hot but realistic. It is an integral part of the story without overpowering the action. Many surprises in the case keep pages turning, such as when a member of Penny's family is put in danger.
Readers will enjoy Penny and her brains as she helps save her client and her family. And they will also enjoy the relationship she develops with Russ.
This is another great read from an award winning romantic suspense writer whose career is gaining momentum. I did receive an advance copy as I am a librarian and a reviewer, but I've become a fan of Giordano's books and can happily give an honest review here.
This one features Penny, who is in danger as she represents client Elizabeth and her son from her murdered husband's ex-partner. Penny is helping Elizabeth get immunity from her husband's stock scheme in exchange for testimony.
Though she is shot at while attending a press conference, Penny does not at first realize she too is in danger. FBI agent Russ has been attracted to the Killer Cupcake lawyer for a long time, despite her bulldog tactics to defend criminal clients. He would love to take down Colin Heath, murdered of Elizabeth's husband, and he tries to deny his feelings for Penny while keeping her and her client safe.
Giordano does a good job making the chemistry between the two hot but realistic. It is an integral part of the story without overpowering the action. Many surprises in the case keep pages turning, such as when a member of Penny's family is put in danger.
Readers will enjoy Penny and her brains as she helps save her client and her family. And they will also enjoy the relationship she develops with Russ.
This is another great read from an award winning romantic suspense writer whose career is gaining momentum. I did receive an advance copy as I am a librarian and a reviewer, but I've become a fan of Giordano's books and can happily give an honest review here.
May 27, 2016
I had not read a Harlequin Romance book in 40 or 50 years and was dismayed when this showed up in my mailbox. But then I checked and, sure enough, I had entered the drawing from Goodreads. Since I love Goodreads, I decided that I would read and rate it. It was better than I expected. The story was reasonable but I had to put it aside every third page or so. Too much panting, secret desiring the body under those clothes, too much lust. When I got to the end, I realized why I gave this a poor rating. The author makes the lead character, a highly respected defense attorney, into a silly simpering fool. She wears spike heels so she can not run in grass, she follows her own lead to solve the problem (ignoring that she is putting family, client, FBI agents, and herself), opens the door with no blouse on - not knowing who is at the door. Why do women writers write such drivel and degrading stuff about other women?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews