Shane has been pushed to the point of breaking. He has been holding on to his sanity, control with a great effort behind it. He may just have to take some steps that may send him further down that path. Come in read this one. If you had a taste with Hard Rules, then you most certainly needed to come in and lose a bit of your control with Damage Control. There was just something drawing and filling about Shane and Emily, together. They blazed the world around them with the intensity behind them and within them, separately and together. This time the rules are left behind and it’s time to control a bit more of the board. More twist. More secrets. More passion. More intensity. Just plain and simple MORE.

There is a very high chance that I will be rereading this one with each new book released in the series. This will be an addictive series just to see where it all will end. Who will survive? Who will not? How will it all come to a head?

DAMAGE CONTROL - Lisa Renee Jones
Dirty Money, Book 2
St. Martin’s Griffin
ISBN: 978-1250083838
February 2017
Contemporary Romance

Present Day - Denver

Shane Brandon knows Emily Stevens has a secret, and considering he’s fighting his own family as well as a local cartel for control of Brandon Enterprises, secrets are something he can’t afford. It would be easier to intimidate her into revealing everything if he didn’t like her so much. But when he does find out what Emily is hiding, he ends up just adding her problems to his own. When it rains, it pours, and Shane is in the middle of a monsoon.

Now that Emily has revealed her secrets, and gets Shane’s offer to help, it doesn’t make her feel any safer - now she’s just more nervous since she brought deadly trouble to Shane’s door. But despite the threat to her life, Emily is not about to let Shane deal with Brandon Enterprises alone. Essentially working as a spy within the company, she has to walk the line between being damaging enough to not let Shane’s family win, yet helpful enough to be kept on.

DAMAGE CONTROL is just as much of a roller coaster as the first book, HARD RULES. Shane and Emily just can’t catch a break, and the world is coming at them from all sides. Luckily, Shane has some allies in his corner, but the forces he’s against are brutal and take no prisoners. The story itself is dark, gritty, and so fast paced you won’t get a second to breathe.

This book cannot be read without first reading HARD RULES (August 2016). Due to the convoluted nature of the story, even if you have read HARD RULES before, I suggest you read it again right before picking up DAMAGE CONTROL, or some of the subtle secondary plots will be lost in the shuffle.

Shane and Emily’s story continues in BAD DEEDS coming August 2017.

Amanda Toth

Review will be posted on Romance Reviews Today in March 2017.

This book carries on seamlessly from the first one, there's also a bit of a recap to help you jump right back into the storyline.

As with every LRJ book I've read, I loved this one! There's mystery, romance, secrets, alphas, strong females, steamy stuff... it has it all, and in true Lisa fashion, she gives us just enough to eagerly want the next book!

4 stars! Damage Control, book 2 (4). Shane & Emily must come clean about their secrets to gain the upper hand in a game!

“I wonder,“ I say my gaze finding hers, heat simmering low in my limbs, one part lust, another part fury, “how it is that I didn’t taste your lies. I wonder if they’ll taste differently now that I know they exist.”

Books in Dirty Money series should be read in order:
Book 1: Hard Rules
Book 2: Damage Control
Book 3: Bad Deeds
Book 4: End Game

In Hard Rules, book 1 job candidate Emily Stevens, on the run from something, met attorney and heir Shane Brandon. And so she was pulled into a fight for control over a fortune between a deathly ill father, a meddling mother, one good brother and one who seems to have fallen from grace.

Damage Control, book 2 opens up to distrust. While Shane and Emily battle out their insane attraction… in the bedroom, the world around them is caving in. They will find themselves entangled with mobsters and hackers in a power game riddled with secrets, greed, deception, danger and conspiracy.

SHANE BRANDON: 32 years/$$$$/Heir/Harvard Law/Attorney/Dark hair/Gray eyes/6’2”/Tattoo.
Nine words to describe Shane Brandon: Noble, perceptive, loyal, dutiful, dominating, powerful, conflicted, enigmatic and private.

EMILY STEVENS: 27 years/Aspiring law student/Secretary/Brown hair/Lt blue eyes/Orphan.
Nine words to describe Emily Stevens: Secretive, loyal, cautious, naive, smart, perceptive, confused, vulnerable and desperate.

Damage Control, told from dual POVs, is a suspenseful whirlwind romance featuring a struggle between right and wrong; good and evil in a fight over an empire, a legacy and a fortune. It ends leading right to book 3, Bad Deeds for the continuation of their saga!

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

This is not just another office romance read! This has twists and turns, love and hate.... lots of hate. We have Shane a fiercely protective male and Emily an equally protective female, both sexy and both with amazing chemistry! When Emily runs from Shane, can she hide to protect him? Can she share her secrets? Can he share his? This story is intense and the sides are picked and line are drawn. biting my nails for the next in the series.....

This series, it’s the same as the first full of suspense, mystery, steamy. I couldn’t put it down, enjoyed and devoured every single moment. Lisa Renee Jones is quiet the pro at writing these suspenseful romances. The story its self is so hard to put down, the males are irresistible and the woman are always easy to relate with.

Her writing will pull you in and keep you till the end. I can’t get into so much because you know its a suspenseful tail that you really need to unravel on your own. It’s best devoured without knowing anything. But I think that you will enjoy this series, especially if you enjoyed other books from this author. You’ve got to grab a copy but first read book one if you haven’t yet.

This story wont disappoint, I promise!

I don't think I will give this book a review review. Reading Damage control made me realize a couple of things. I want to read something from Lisa Renee Jones that doesn't have not even a hint of suspense in it. I felt like I was reading the Surrender all over again. I want to see Lisa Renee Jones writing something new. I don't mind so much the connection between different series, but I minded this. Maybe if the story had focused more on the romance I wouldn't have felt like this, but unfortunately this book tired me and I wasn't as happy with it as I was with the author's other works. I will continue reading her book because I like the writing style and there is something different each time, but I don't feel like recommending this book. I feel bad for saying this because I like the author, but this is how I feel. In her recent books the author gives the reader the chance to remember the names and some basic info on some important characters in the story that follows. As someone who doesn't re-read a book in preparation for the next one and reads a lot of books between releases I found this very helpful because it gives me a chance to remember what happened. The book dragged a little and I hope the third book in the series will bring more excitement with it. Maybe this is the reason I felt tired after reading Damage control. If you want to read this book, please be aware that it's not a stand alone novel and you have to have read the book in order to complete understand things. It wasn't for me, but I hope it will be good for you.

REVIEW via enclosed link.

Emily is determined in running away. Though she does everything possible to keep Shane at arm’s length, the man refuses to let things lie. Part of her understands why he’s doing what he’s doing. He cares for her just as much as she cares about him, though she won’t openly admit it. Deep inside, she wants nothing more than to walk away from the life of deceit and lies she’s built around herself. If she wants to get to the truth, however, she’ll need to stick it out to the very end. The question is, how much more must she suffer before each and every one of her secrets comes back to haunt her?

Another awesome addition to the Dirty Money series, Damage Control gives us more insight into the plight Shane and Emily found themselves in within the last book. These two don’t have things easy. Bursting with love for one another, they do their best to deny their feelings in the hopes of setting all wrongs to right. What they find along the way, however, drives more nails into their coffins than they care to admit.

Lisa continues to expand on the world she’s created around these lovely characters. We get to see their pain, their heartache, and the constant indecision they experience while trying to assert themselves in the world they live in. Shane and Emily have shown us that it’s not easy living in a world where secrets can kill you. Their world is dark, dirty, and downright painful. Nevertheless, they’re willing to find the silver lining behind the clouds that surround them.

While this series is far from finished, we’ve been given a dark and gritty story that makes you want to delve further into the secrets that surround each character. While I don’t know what’s coming next for Shane and Emily, I confess I’m looking forward to what’s coming. I truly hope they get their happily ever after. One can hope, right?

Damage Control is the second book in Lisa's Dirty Money series, and wow what a sequel it was!Get Shortlink I've read a few of Lisa's books now and this series is definitely shaping up to by my favourite! I gave the first book 4.5 stars and this one a solid 4! I'd definitely recommend it - its the perfect mix of romance, mystery, and excitement. Go on, read it!

The story picks up after the cliff hanger that Hard Rules left on - thankfully after that I could immediately pick this one up! There was a lot of character development going on in Damage Control, particularly for Emily. We found out a lot more about her past in this instalment of the series and, in my opinion, we saw a much stronger side of her! I find that sometimes in romance books the girl is weak and has little personality...those books really annoy me...but that wasn't the case here at all! And not just Emily too, I loved that there were a lot of really strong female characters in the Dirty Money series - I loved Jessica and Shane's mum is really clever!

The plot thickens further in Damage Control, with more secrets coming to light about Brandon Sr, and Derek's involvement with a drugs cartel. Its intense! Every time I think I have the story all figured out something happens and I have to rethink all my ideas! It definitely kept me on my toes. And alongside the swoon-worthy romance between Emily and Shane I really couldn't have asked for more!

And of course I'm so excited to learn more in the next book which comes out in August!! I'm sure it's going to be just as good!!

This is my first book by Ms Jones and it was outstanding. What a thriller with so many twists and turns. I would advise you to read the first book of this series, Hard Rules, because Damage Control picks up where Hard Rules ends. Shane and Emily are explosive together. What a ride Lisa Renee Jones puts us through. Cannot wait for the next book, Bad Deeds coming out this summer. I recommend this series

You NEED to read Hard Rules first for a variety of reasons. 1- so you can meet Shane and Emily 2 - so you can find out just how truly screwed up Shane's family is 3 - because why not?

This book picks up immediately where Hard Rules left off. Emily and Shane are talking about Emily's past and why she was running from Shane. And we find out more about how truly effed up the Brandon family is. Shane now knows to trust Emily but there's really not anyone else to trust.

And that ending, though?! Oy I can't wait until August for Bad Deeds! I need Bad Deeds NOW!!!

This is just the epitome of what you look for in romantic suspense. It has mystery, intrigue, sexiness, romance, so many elements to this story. I loved every minute of reading it. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time and I am dying to find out what happens next. I know there are still a few books to go, but each ending is leaving me wanting more! I cannot wait to read the next book!

The blurb is what got me to read book one, Hard Rules, in this series by Lisa Renee Jones:

"When Wall Street meets the Sons of Anarchy..."

There really isn't a better way to describe these books. Picture the chaotic, crazy mess and ever-constant web spinning of the Sons of Anarchy cast... but instead of dirty (but sexy) bikers, picture filthy rich (and equally as sexy) bajillionaires.

I absolutely loved book 1 (you can read my review here) and was so excited to get my hands on book 2, Damage Control. But with my entire family dropping like flies with the flu, my life got a bit hectic and I was late starting my ARC and ended up buying the audiobook and switching back and forth from e-book to audio (I highly recommend the audiobook, I think the narrators are fabulous, by the way!)

Damage Control starts exactly where book one leaves off, with a giant freaking mess, more secrets than you can remember, and pretty much zero answers as well. I seriously haven't read a book with so many intricate details, and lies, and side plots going on at once... it's incredible the web that Lisa Renee Jones spins in these books. You never really know who is good, who is bad, what side someone is on, who is going down next, who is plotting what... seriously! I am good at figuring things out but good lord I leave each book wondering how the flaming fig newton someone can get out of these disasters unscathed.

Emily and Shane both have secrets and terrible families that are desperately trying to drag them down. There's international hacking groups, murder, a cartel, a billion dollar family business changing control, cancer... you name it. It is all in there tearing everybody apart at every angle.

I felt like this story was a lot of figuring out Shane and Emily's pasts and how they would conquer their future... if they even have one together. A lot of the plots are intense and action-packed, but Shane and Emily handle it separate from each other. Unlike book one where they are busy trying to handle their feelings, and the hiding of their relationship from co-workers and family members, in book 2 they're together in the open. The plot is more focused on the suspense, the mystery, the scandal. The parts where Shane and Emily are actually together are when they're home from work or bustin' cartel booty... and naked.

I loved that their relationship was there in the very steamy background, and the story instead took on a very strong voice more based on plot than relationship, if that makes sense. It's such an amazing, mind-boggling storyline that I loved immersing myself in the wtf is happening, how can they fix this, omg what now?!

Yes, they are still figuring out what "us" even means, and let me tell you... *fans face* Their "us" is sexy AF. *fans face harder.* Shane is the epitome of alpha male. And Emily is just as strong, no matter how lost she is in life, that chick is one bad ass mamba-jamba!

I can't recommend this series enough, and if you enjoy romantic suspense that'll get your heart pounding (for multiple reasons) this series is a must click!

Damage Control is book 2 in A Dirty Money series by Lisa Renee Jones. You must read Hard Rules to start it. The author included an amazing catch up/footnotes section at the beginning of the book, so even if you don’t remember certain things, just by reading that you will be up to date instantly.

Book 2 starts where we left off. Shane Brandon and Emily Stevens are at a crossroads. Can they trust each other with their secrets? We’re pulled right back into the suspense and danger lurking around.

“The people closest to you can hurt you the most.”

Emily is hiding and her painful past has the potential to catch up to her and destroy everything she loves.

Shane’s family made him untrusting and cynical and he needs Emily to be honest in order to have a future together. He wows to protect her as he fights his family’s downward spiral.

“You are the best damn thing that’s ever happened to me. I’m trying to make sure my family doesn’t destroy us.”

We learn so much in book 2. Super fast paced as information is uncovered and revealed, you will be glued to the pages. It’s full of twists and turns and it will keep you guessing and looking for answers.

I loved how Emily and Shane became closer. Their relationship develops through the web of deceit and lies inflicted on them by their families.

They become stronger as a couple but also as individuals too. Their connection is undeniable and off the charts hot.

Outside forces threaten their newly found happiness as Sean learns more about the greed driven betrayal from his family. Very few people can he trust as he desperately tries to run damage control and keep Emily safe at the same time.

Lisa Renee Jones kept me on my toes as I immersed into the world of deception, greed and danger. With plenty of hot and steamy moments between Emily and Shane to keep me satisfied till the end. Can’t wait for Bad Deeds!!

Damage Control was everything I hoped it would be!!
Lisa Renee Jones can do no wrong when it comes to writing novels! She constantly has me intrigued by her next plot line and characters. This novel was no exception.
Shane and Emily had some serious chemistry and connection going on! They were hot and steamy, while still maintain a relationship that showed some semblance of a deeper connection!
I cannot say enough good things about this novel! I guarantee you will enjoy it! Go purchase it for yourself today!
5/5 Stars!

Deceit and corruption are thriving in Brandon Enterpises and Shane is the good son, trying to do the right thing surrounded by a world of bad. Emily is his light, his escape from the corporate nightmare that has become his life. But Emily has secrets and troubles of her own. Will this company ever be on the up and up or will it always be tied up with strings that are illegal. Twisted families, secrets to discover and so very, very hot moments. Make this a hot read and I can't wait to see what the future will hold for these two. Will they ever find a HEA where stress doesn't live and life is just daisies and butterflies? Only time will tell.

“I think it’s fairly clear that she doesn’t want to see the distrust in my eyes any more than I want to see the lies in hers. Once again, we’re well matched, but for all the wrong reasons.”

Finding answers this go around should’ve been the no-brainer…but it’s not. There are so many moving parts to this story, yet it’s simple. Shane and Emily are meant for each other.
The only disappointing fact is that her hesitance and back-and-forth with everything was quite annoying. It made the book move extremely slow without much action to keep me interested.

I wanted answers.

“She’s escaping from one corrupt family to hide inside another. Mine.”

I didn’t get the ones I wanted, or really any at all. I felt a little lost reading this book, a sense of disconnect from the first one…but maybe it’s just because this may be what was needed to lay the ground work for the next novel. Which I’m sure will give me what I had hoped for in this one.

So, yeah. It wasn’t my favorite, but sometimes in reading a series there just has to be a set-up somewhere. They all can’t be super amazing, packed full of action and passion and oomph. Some just need to provide the details in order to understand the story better as a whole…this was that story for me.

“Please don’t try to make me feel better. You just said yourself that you had to accept the change you faced to really move forward. That’s about claiming control, and I admire that in you. I want to admire that in me too.”

**3.5 Not What I’d Hoped, Stars**

4 Suspenseful CROWNS

Lisa Renee Jones has delivered another novel filled with twists and turns that will leave the reader questioning who will win control of the Brandon empire.

This story from the opening pages starts off with a bang. Emily and Shane are struggling to deal with the revelations that were revealed at the end of the Hard Rules. Even with the amount of stress these two are under, they still remain relatively the same. Shane is still battling for the morality of his company and himself, while protecting the people he loves, and Emily is still running, although the reader finds out along with Shane what she is running from. The chemistry between these two is still as electric as it appears in book one, and it becomes more with this book as true feelings are shared and explored between these two. Their journey through this book serves to make them a stronger couple.

As always, Lisa Renee Jones delivers a story that will keep readers riveted to the pages. There are so many players in this game, so many duplicitous activities, and so much treachery that readers end up desperately trying to figure out all the pieces along with the characters. Even though much more is revealed in this book in regards to allegiances and players in this chess game, there are still many questions unanswered and man wildcard characters who can change the game quickly, so I am intrigued to see how Ms. Jones is going to wrap up this series.

Lovers of suspense and romance should absolutely pick up the Dirty Money series. The layers of the plot, the characters you love and the ones you love to hate, and the chemistry between Emily and Shane are sure to entertain.
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ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

“ Promise. And I never break a promise.”


Damage Control is an awesomely intense read, full of questions, anxiety, lust and suspense.

After the cliffhanger in Hard Rules , I was desperate to know what will happen to Shane and Emily- so many twists, so many questions left unanswered… I was left craving for more.
Shane and Emily are battling with an onslaught of different emotions. Emily wants answers and is going to do all she can to stay strong.
Neither one is willing to relinquish control and that really brought out an explosive dynamic between them that is equally endearing and sizzling to watch.

“I’d bleed for you. That’s what you don’t seem to understand.” “I don’t want you to bleed for me. That’s what you don’t seem to understand.”

Shane is more than never determined to take control of the Brandon Empire. He is ready to go to war against his father, his brother and whoever will be on his way. He struggles , however, with his feelings for Emily.

“ you’re a drug to me. The only addiction, outside of success, I’ve ever had.”

Emily wants to be part of his plan and help him but she has also demons to fight and problem to sort out.
The author allowed us to see the struggles Shane constantly faced with his actions towards Emily.

This was an awesome sequel to the first book. We got some answers, and even more questions.

I am loving this series. It encompasses all of the elements in a great read for me.
The story is so unpredictable, you never know what will happened next. It’s angsty, twisted and I couldn’t put it down.
I can't wait to see what unfolds for Shane and Emily.

“That’s what it’s about. You’re the future, not the past. You’re the good that I need while I get rid of the bad.”