Secrets, lies, deceit… A former Navy SEAL turned homicide detective has met his match in this new standalone addition to the number #1 Bestselling Steele Shadows Series… dedicated his life to one thing—speaking for the dead. Everyone and everything else be damned, including his own demons. During one of the most oppressive heat waves to hit the small, southern town of Berry Springs, the former Navy SEAL is called to a scene where a real estate heiress is found standing over a dead body, holding the murder weapon. The local cops immediately dub it a slam-dunk case, but if Jagg has learned anything from his days running special ops, it’s that nothing is as it seems… including this suspect.
Despite her name, Sunny Harper is as beguiling as a fallen angel. Mysterious, clever, completely unwilling to cooperate, and, perhaps his least favorite quality—mind-numbingly intoxicating. When evidence from the scene suggests an accomplice, Jagg begins to believe that Sunny is both innocent and in danger, despite the towns’ uproar to lock her up. Torn between his growing feelings for his suspect, he takes Sunny to a secluded lake house where he discovers there’s much more behind those enchanting green eyes… including secrets that could take them both under.
With his career on the line and the clock ticking, Jagg must decide if he can trust Sunny… before they both get burned.
Jagger is a standalone romantic suspense novel (no cliff-hanger!)
★Awards and Recognition:★
CABIN 1 (STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY): 2020 National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, 2020 HOLT Medallion Finalist.
THE STORM (A BERRY SPRINGS NOVEL): 2018 Golden Leaf Winner for Romantic Suspense, 2018 Maggie Award for Excellence Finalist, 2018 Silver Falchion Finalist, 2018 Beverley Finalist, 2018 Passionate Plume Honorable Mention Recipient.
THE FOG (A BERRY SPRINGS NOVEL): 2019 Golden Quill Winner for Romantic Suspense, 2019 I Heart Indie Winner, 2019 Maggie Award for Excellence Finalist, 2019 Stiletto Award Finalist, 2019 Book Buyers Best Finalist.
THE CAVE (A BERRY SPRINGS NOVEL): 2020 Book Buyers Best Finalist, 2020 Carla Crown Jewel Finalist.
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4.5 Stars
Max Jagger is a detective in Berry Springs, when one of his close friends is shot to death at the scene of a robbery—he finds some footage of the robbery area and sees a ‘black bandit’ leaving the scene, and shortly thereafter, Jagg’s friend is killed. Shortly after that, a woman is attacked while jogging, and her attacker ends up with half of his face blown off, with Sunny Harper holding a gun over his dead body. Seems like an open-and-shut case, only it’s not.
Sunny and Jagg start off with opposing objectives, but eventually find some common ground. They both have some significant emotional wounds, and a few external ones as well. The conflicts are clear with Jagg, but somewhat muddled with Sunny, because she’s got a few secrets that are doled out sparingly. The pace is pretty steady and the tension ramps up as the reader gets deeper into the story. The Steele brothers play a small part in this story, but most of the action focuses on Jagg and Sunny and his investigations into the two separate but potentially-related crime scenes.
Both Jagg and Sunny have had to pull themselves up from their own rock bottom situations, giving each of them an interior strength that gives them gravitas as protagonists. Add in some incredible canine companions, and some interesting peripheral characters, and this is a compelling story. Well done, Ms. McKinney!
This is a new to me author and for a first pick of her work I was impressed. It had the right amount of romance and suspense. I loved the characters.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to enter into another one by this author that also starts a series off. Homicide detectives do not usually get rest because there is always murder lurking. I like his motto that Jagger has speaking for the dead. I am so glad he sees beyond the obvious in this one. Sunny will have her hands full of more than just blood if she does not help her one that believes something else. I also like that there are secrets to uncover and a murder to solve. Danger is coming and they have to get the answers soon so that pulls you to the edge. Like those secluded places. Things always happen there. Did I say it is fast so keep up and hang on so you do not miss a clue or secret.
Downright spellbinding!
From the first page to the last it was impossible to put this story down. This was a little darker than the preceding books, but not to the point that it was too much. Sunny and Jagg are an amazing combination both in investigating the strange happenings as well as in their mutual attraction. If you like mysteries and romance you’re bound to love Ms. McKinney’s books!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
It was a little slow to get into for me in the beginning (that’s the reason for the 4 stars) but I ended up loving this book. It wasn’t ALL about the romance like many romance books are wont to do. I really loved the murder mystery plot line and wow the twist at the end! Usually I see through that stuff and have it figured out 1/4 to 1/2 way through but this one really got me!
5+ stars
*ARC kindly provided by the author and I’m leaving an honest review*
Suspenseful
Gripping/gritty
Fast paced
Page turner
Passionate
Intense
Heartfelt
Emotional
Unpredictable twists and turns
Dark storytelling
Raw
Hot, delicious, damaged/tortured hero
Sassy, strong, vulnerable Heroine
Amazing love story
Jagger is the first book in Steele Shadows Investigations series by Amanda McKinney. Wow! Honestly, the series keeps getting better and better. This was completely brilliant, compelling, raw, breathtaking, at times heartbreaking story and such a wonderful read which I can’t express how much I loved. One of the talents that the author possesses is the knowledge how to develop, create the storyline and make you fall in love with her words, plot and the characters demanding your attention from start to finish. It is majorly written in Jagger POV which I loved, but I think I missed Sunny’s POV on special things and scenes and her thoughts. But it didn’t diminish my enjoyment in any way. I love we get a glimpse at the Steele brothers and the way they help Jagger out. I loved the added mystery and vibe of local legends, practicing magic and a full moon theories. This is a story about Max Jagger, former Navy SEAL turned homicide detective, and Sunny Harper, a real estate heiress. The characters are complex and resilient; the plot is strong with unpredictable twists and turns that will keep you guessing the whole time. It was enjoyable, steamy, dark, suspenseful, heartfelt and heartbreaking read with such cleverly and brilliantly written plot twist(s).
The chemistry and tension between Jagg and Sunny was everything. I liked them from the moment they interacted the first time. They lit the pages with their chemistry and cute witty banter/smartass, sarcastic comments. They are each other’s match; sinfully sexy and intense. He can’t explain what exactly is about her that gets to him; he just knows that he is drawn to her. But also suspects that she is hiding something which makes him want to be cautious. With danger surrounding them, he wants to keep her safe. Jagg is charming, loving, caring, loyal, broody, moody, grumpy; but also jaded from the past and doesn’t trust easily. Sunny is loving, caring, fighter, survivor, vulnerable, loyal and jaded from the past. Separately they are beautiful mess, together they are perfectly imperfect. Neither of them in the beginning is looking for a relationship, or fully trust each other, but also can’t deny the strong connection or the chemistry they feel. They are passionate, a little bit angsty and intense. I loved their banter which was a highlight to getting to know them and my reading. They had a lot going on with unexpected twists and turns. I love their moments, dialogues and banter; how they are just drawn to each other, how gradually they let each other in and began to trust each other. They simply understand each other. Maybe they don’t make sense but when they are together – they are just perfect and exactly what they need in order to heal and move on from the scars of their past. Their love story is not perfect. It’s layered, fast paced, real, emotional, with depth, lies, secrets and edge. The pace of the story added to their romance and to them figuring out place in life and new circumstances of situation. It was flirty, fun, touching, heartbreaking and heartwarming. The epilogue was so amazing and it’s the perfect ending for them both.
Two words: INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL! It kept my attention at all times and I could not put it down. It was addictive, angsty, slow burn, sinfully sexy and intense, emotional, heartbreaking, enthralling and raw with real characters and a lot of heart and heartbreak. With relatable, wonderful and marvelous primary and secondary characters, an effortless writing, awe-inspiring details and a journey of self-doubting, love, secrets, lies, mystery, the author takes us on an emotional and beautiful journey of the characters, their struggles and their self-discovery. It’s filled with so much love, heart and heat, effortless and poignant writing with compelling, gripping storyline. I can’t wait for Jagg’s brother Ryder’s book. I highly recommend it.
Jagger is a phenomenal romantic suspense by Amanda McKinney. Ms. McKinney has once again impressed me with her writing. This is a well-written book and the characters…whooeee, they’re second to none. Jagger is a homicide detective investigating his friend’s murder and the theft of a scroll. Sunny is a loner and a bit of a mystery until she’s attacked and the attacker winds up dead. Jagg and Sunny’s story is packed, cover to cover, with drama, humor, sizzle, action and suspense. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait for my next read from Amanda McKinney. Jagger is part of the Steele Shadows Investigations Series but can easily be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jagger is Book 1 of Amanda McKinney’s new Steele Shadow Investigations series and a spin-off of the Steele Shadows Security series. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in but this was an exciting, edge of your seat, thriller that will keep you second-guessing yourself until the end.
Jagger comes across as a brash and generally unlikeable kind of guy at first but then you start to get glimpses beneath that tough exterior. Sunny is a strong independent woman herself who has been to hell and back. Sparks fly instantly between these two.
Overall this was a great start to a new series and I look forward to reading Ryder’s story next!
Awesomely detailed
Edge of your seat suspense
Deeply effective.
Jagger & Sunny are hot separate AND even hotter together!!!
***I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.***
Amanda McKinney had out done herself once again. Jagger did not disappoint, and lived up the Steele Security name. I highly recommend this book.
An abundance of endless intrigue that will have you frantically turning the pages! An exciting storyline that makes you feel as if you are there watching the story as it unfolds! Fun, enjoyable, intense and emotionally moving! Amazing hot chemistry you just want to sink your teeth into! One heck of an amazing must read!
This saga just keeps getting better and better! Amanda McKinney takes the time to let you get to know the characters without slowing the story down. For instance, Max Jagger, ex-SEAL who was deemed physically unable to perform the job, becomes a homicide detective for Berry Springs Poice Department. You know right a way he has a chip on his shoulder because of his bad back.
His mentor from BSPD has been killed on the same night as a priceless piece of art is stolen from a local gallery. After his mentor’s funeral Jagg finally decidew to head home when he hears a twinkling sound. He follows the sound, gun drawn and comes upon a tree with Wiccan symbols, chimes, vodoo dolls and candles. The city in in the middle of a heatwave along with a no burn order in place. He thinks this has something to due with the funeral. He will figure it out.
While talking about the tree and the funeral with his superior trying to connect the dots they get a call about a shooting in the park. Sunny Arlo is standing over the dead body of the local Pastor’s son, with a gun in her hand. The witness has his own gun pointed at her, calling her a murderer. Jagg tells her to drop the gun which she does as she takes off. Jagg tackles her and asks her if she shot the Pastor’s son. She says no. Did she kill his mentor, she says no again. He believes her. He can’t explain it but he does.
His superior tells him to be careful, he is becoming a loose cannon. He is close to losing his badge. Sunny Arlo has him under some sort of spell. Jagg needs to put the pieces of the puzzle together, his mentors killer, the killer of the Pastor’s son and the art thief have to be the same person right? It can’t be Sunny, can it?
Jagger is a navy seal with attitude. He is now a detective in Berry Springs. He meets Sunny Harper during an investigation. This is another suspenseful book in the Steele Security saga! It will keep you on the edge of your seat!
5 Stars!!!
After reading Cabin 1, Cabin 2, Cabin 3 and Phoenix I was anxious to read Jagger. I’ve come to expect disappointment when the series gets to the 3rd or 4th book. Not in this case, each one is better than the last. Wow! Hands down Jagger is the best of the series. As with all of Amanda McKinney’s books, the anticipation keeps you turning the pages. It’s an intriguing story-line with many twists, surprises and very well written. The main characters are well developed and have an interesting relationship. I also like it when characters from past books show up and help. Absolutely riveting. I could not put the book down until I had read it in full. This was her best one yet.
Ok, seriously. Every time I read one of Amanda McKinney’s books I think it is the best one she has ever written. Until the next one! I was soooo excited for Jagger. And I wasn’t disappointed. Mystery, intrigue, suspense, this book has it all! Jagger has met his match in Sunny and their story makes for a great read. I loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via The Author Amanda McKinney through BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Suspenseful
Gripping/gritty
Fast paced
Page turner
Passionate
Intense
Heartfelt
Emotional
Unpredictable twists and turns
Dark storytelling
Raw
Hot, delicious, damaged/tortured hero
Sassy, strong, vulnerable Heroine
Amazing love story
Jagger is the first book in Steele Shadows Investigations series by Amanda McKinney. Can I just say, Wow! Honestly, the series keeps getting better and better.
This was completely brilliant, compelling, raw, breathtaking, at times heartbreaking story and such a wonderful read which I can’t express how much I loved.
Some talents that the author possesses is the knowledge how to develop, create the storyline and make you fall in love with her words, plot and the characters. This story demands your attention from start to finish.
The majority of the book is written in Jagger’s POV which I loved, but I think I missed Sunny’s POV on special things, scenes and her thoughts. But it didn’t diminish my enjoyment in any way. I love that we get a glimpse at the Steele brothers and the way they help Jagger out.
All in all I absolutely and thoroughly enjoyed this book. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a truly well written, suspenseful, dark romance Story.
This book was amazing. I loved the chemistry between Jagg and Sunny. Loved all the twists and turns. I loved this entire series each book keeps getting better and better.
This series gets better and better with each book! This book has it all intrigue, suspense, angst and love. An Abundance of emotions take you on a roller coaster of a ride. Jagger and sunny don’t have an easy ride to love. But it’s worth the heartache to get to the end.
The author just gets better with each novel she writes. The story pulls you in and never lets go. With heart pounding suspense, drama and danger, you just cannot put the book down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love a mystery with lots of danger, lies and surprises, you’ll enjoy this book. Jagg is ex Navy Seal and now he’s a homicide detective. He meets Sunny thru a crime scene. He scraficies everything to prove her innocent and find the real killer. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was Jagg doing all the talking so to speak. I don’t know if this is called first person writing or not. HEA