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The Conspiracy

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Member Reviews

Exciting suspense! The action starts quickly with this book and continues throughout. The characters are interesting and well-developed, and the story line kept my attention. A solid read!

Harper Winston needs help. Her brother set out to sail the Caribbean alone and she hasn't heard from him in days. She knows something has happened because she made Michael promise to keep in touch and she knows he wouldn't be playing games like this ... not with her. She knows just the man to contact, but she's not sure he's going to agree to help her.

Chase Garrett was once Michael's best friend, until destruction and lifestyles didn't exactly mesh between them anymore. As the owner of Maximum Security, he understands why Harper comes asking for help, he's just not so sure he wants to get mixed up in her family drama again. He has no doubt that her brother is in danger, but his biggest suspicion leads right back to the shady business dealings of their father.

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t’s been years since Harper Winston first laid eyes on Chase Garrett, back when her big brother Michael brought him to her sweet 16th birthday party. It’s also been years since the friendship between Michael and Chase fell apart due to Michael’s drug addiction and a whole lot of family secrets. But it’s been six days since Harper has heard from the now healthy, clean, and sober Michael, who is taking a solo cruise through the Caribbean. After everything that they went through, Michael promised that he’d never let his little sister have to worry about him like that again. After nearly a week unable to contact him by radio or phone, Harper does the only thing that she can do. She’s going to bring in Chase.

Chase Garrett, cowboy PI never expected to see Harper again, or to be drawn back into the Winston family. He also never expected to find the woman that he thought was a spoiled society princess living on Daddy’s dirty money was in fact a stubborn, smart, sexy businesswoman who would be willing to do anything to find her brother. Now they just have to put aside their attraction in order to track down what has happened to Michael. Never mind that they’ve had it bad for each other since they first met….

Harper and Chase’s acknowledgment of their sexual tension AND the fact that they need to put it aside for now is one of my favourite parts of the book. None of this ridiculous “oh, but he could never want me”, Harper knows. Our girl also knows howto use a gun, and to pack! She can fit an evening gown AND hiking gear into a carry-on bag, which somehow makes me adore her even more.

The twisting thrills and conspiracy are the focus, more than the romance, but don’t worry, there will be hotness! Plus this is not just a disappearance, the book is named conspiracy for a reason! Martin has also begun building an ongoing world, populated with the Garrett brothers, sexy ex-soldier Cowboy, sexy businessman cowboy, and Chase’s entire investigation firm filled with all kinds of sexy. This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship, Ms Martin (as long as you lay off the constant brand name dropping!)

4 outta 5 Pink Hearts.

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The latest of Martin's romantic suspense novels leaps in with no preamble, introducing our kind-of-a-jerk hero by having him solve a sex trafficking case. The very vanilla heroine immediately throws her missing drug-addicted brother at us (and the hero, a man with whom she is pretty much forbidden association courtesy of her wheeling and dealing magnate father whose schemes feature largely), and we're off on an adventure that straggles across numerous locations and through various modern agendas. Pretty much what one would expect from Kat Martin; fans will not be disappointed. Evidently this is the first full-length novel in a new series featuring the men of Maximum Security, which is the company owned by Chase Garrett, one of the main characters of this story.

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The Conspiracy launches Kat Martin's new series with taut suspense, steamy romance, and plenty of action. I really enjoyed that action. Martin takes readers from Texas to a Caribbean resort and, finally, into the jungles of South America as Harper and Chase race against time to discover what happened to Harper's brother. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way that kept me involved with the story, even after the reveal of who is behind Michael's abduction.

I had kind of a push-pull relationship with the romance. There's plenty of desire between Chase and Harper and I do love the "best friend of older brother" trope but I also had a few issues with them along the way. There's one scene in particular (no spoilers) that made me very uneasy but I did buy into their eventual HEA. While the primary focus of this book is on Chase and Harper, a secondary romance also unfolds as the story progresses. This romance includes a scene that I'm still trying to figure out why the author felt was necessary. Maybe she was going for an erotic edge, or shock value, but it didn't have that effect on me. In fact, it was disturbing enough that I had to set the book aside for several days before I could continue reading, which is a shame because I really did enjoy the rest of the book.

Those few issues aside, The Conspiracy is a fast-paced, twisty race against time filled with danger, action, betrayal, and desire that sets the stage for what looks to be another winning series by Kat Martin.

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This is the first book by Kat Martin and it won’t be my last. I’m so glad that I was able to get on the first book of her new series. There was just the right amount of intrigue mixed up with romance it kept me interested from the first page to the last with anticipation..

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If you like rollercoasters, you will love this book, a page turning adventure with all the hills and valleys, twists and turns of the rollercoaster that you will be riding. This is the first book in a new series by an author who specializes in handsome, rugged, brave and compassionate heroes and the strong women who they find as their match. The characters are masterfully developed with a riveting plot and adeptly written narrative.

Harper Winston had known Chase Garrett since her 16 birthday, when her brother Michael, brought his best friend at college home with him. After Michael had gotten into heavy drug use, Chase had distanced himself from Michael. Now at 35, Harper is the senior partner of Elemental Chic, a clothing company, while Chase, 35, owns Maximum Security, a PI, security and bail enforcement firm. Michael had cleaned up his act and now owned his own tech company. Michael has gone missing while sailing in the Caribbean and Harper comes to Chase to help her find him, insisting that she is coming along, or will go by herself. This is just the first steep slope in this adventure. And this being a romance, of course, they will find themselves attracted to each other.

I received a free advanced copy of this book from NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.

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THE CONSPIRACY is an old school romantic suspense by OG author Kat Martin, and it’s perfect for this awful wintry situation we’re finding ourselves in right now. Set in the Caribbean, this suspense centers around Harper Winston’s search for her missing brother, Michael, who’s supposed to be sailing the Caribbean. Since he’s missed several check-in’s, she enlists the help of his old friend, Chase Garrett, who owns Maximum Security. Chase and Michael were friends back in college, but parted ways because of Michael’s drug use. Harper’s instincts were good, though, and Michael’s kidnappers lead them on a good chase through the jungles of Columbia and beyond. The suspense is tense, the romance is sexy, and the tension is snow-melting.

*Originally published on Frolic: https://frolic.media/january-romantic-suspense-wrap-up/

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I've read other books by this author and The Conspiracy, does not disappointed. Harper Winston has a feeling her brother Michael is in danger. Enter brothers ex best friend Chase Garrett, Maximum Security to the rescue. This book is a page turner.

#theconspiracy #netgalley

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I think my hardest part about this book was that I wasn't a fan of Chase and Harper as a couple, otherwise this isn't a bad read! I'm happy this was my first book by Kat Martin. Maybe a little on the cheesy romantic side, but not bad!

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With fast-paced rough, tough, and deadly action and suspense and lust-filled romance, the new series by Kat Martin centering around the Maximum Security is introduced to the readers.
I'm a long time fan of the author, I especially liked the books from Alaska, the unforgiving nature as part of the romantic suspense giving it another dimension. I liked The Conspiracy, even enjoyed the second half of it immensely, it was entertaining and engaging with the unpredictable suspense and savage scenes where the action is up close, and personal combat where no one is safe. I do have some conflicting thoughts about some things, and I have been rewriting this review now too many times.
The book has multiple of sub-storylines, even a secondary romance happening on the sidelines. The point of view changes from the protagonists to the culprits to the secondary characters and so on. Yes, that kind of storytelling gives a well-rounded view of things happening, yet it can also be a bit chaotic at times as well and take away from the intensity of the main focus.
The romance between Harper Winston and Chase Garrett was intriguing, a former best friend's little sister type of attraction in between them. In the first half of the book, the lust-filled sexual thoughts didn't feel truly natural, instead, those inner monologues came off even a bit awkward at times. (Now, I read an e-arc from NetGalley, so there might have been more editing after that copy was released). Chase is lusting after Harper's body, but he is not fond of her family and has no plans to have any kind of relationship with her. There are some things said and mentioned at the beginning about Harper's and Chase's current and past relationships that were a bit cringe-worthy, yet that kind of mentality is dropped soon after, and (thankfully) there's no follow up on those issues either.
The first half of the book it felt at times like the author was searching for an edgier way to write, filling the thoughts of the protagonists with erotic type longing, that didn't quite feel fitting in. There's even a scene at the half point that nearly had me dropping the whole book, yet I'm glad I didn't since things smooth out in the second half, and really picks up, the suspense being intense with twists in the plot, and revenge been sought from the past actions.
The Conspiracy introduces the main characters of the new series. I liked the bond between the Garrett brothers, their love and support of each other is a palpable force in the story, saving the day, and lives, several times. The exciting life Garrett's are living, and their connections to the law enforcement enticed my mind and I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Druglords, kidnappings, fighting for the justice, and family drama invite the readers to the alluring world of the Maximum Security, yet it is the character and reputation of the Garretts and the seductive, desire-filled romance that will make me want to come back for more.
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side

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First book I read from this author and it was good. I like the multiple points of view writing style. One point of view can sometimes be very boring and repetitive in the characters thoughts. I was a bit frustrated with Chase. I felt it took too long for him to finally come around in his and Harpers relationship.

The suspense and mystery was well written. Overall I enjoyed this book

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Kat Martin always writes a good romantic suspense story! I don’t care how far fetched it is, I still enjoy them every time. Chase and Harper were quite the duo! The twists and turns are typical Martin and kept me intrigued throughout. Can’t wait for the next one!

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3.5 Stars

I love a good romantic suspense so I was intrigued by The Conspiracy and hadn't previously read any of Kat Martin's work. I have mixed feelings regarding this title, whilst it had the suspense, intrigue, action & unforeseen twists and turns that I crave from a romantic suspense, the characters kind of fell flat for me. The connection between them at times felt too forced and not organic. At times I loved both the hero and heroine, but at other times they frustrated me with their repetitive points of view. There is also a lot of information in this book for one title, with multiple points of view and plot lines, I was quite captivated by the first half of the story, but kind of got bogged down in the details in the second half.

Harper Winston is the heroine, she's attractive, successful and hard working. She grew up in a life of privilege, and is somewhat naïve, but will fight for those she cares for most. She is quite independent and head strong.

Chase Garrett is a private investigator, and former best friend to Harper's older brother Michael. He's intense, protective and kind, but has a tendency to be a bit arrogant and self righteous at times. Of the two main characters I preferred his character over Harper, but he frustrated me with the repetitive reasoning for not following through on the attraction they share.

There were several side characters who captivated my attention and I quite enjoy a series with connected standalones so will be checking out the next title in the series.

I recommend this title is you enjoy suspenseful story, as the romance definitely takes a back seat to the investigation of Michaels disappearance in this title.

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Thrilling suspense and danger holds readers hostage while the emotions grips readers by the heart. Harper’s brother is missing and her only hope is the man who used to be his best friend. Trusting his gut, Chase suspects that there is more to Michael’s disappearance than what meets the eye. Chase and Harper’s chemistry sizzles with electricity and the attraction between is undeniable but this couple has some emotional issues that has to be overcome as well as family issues that need to be resolved which keeps the relationship on a razor’s edge throughout. Readers hold their breath in anticipation of the outcome even as the couple fight their attraction.

The plot is fast paced and flows smoothly throughout with lots of adrenaline pumping suspense and dangerous events that keep readers on the edge of their seat as Michael is forced to put everything on the line to keep Harper safe. Surprising twists ensures that readers are kept guessing right along with the characters. The author has created another wonderfully, thrilling and suspenseful story with strong, imagination catching characters in a setting that demands readers come back for more and once again I was completely caught up in her world until the very end.

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**2.5 Stars**

Kat Martin takes readers on a crazy adventure in her latest romantic suspense novel, THE CONSPIRACY. This book follows successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, Harper, and handsome private detective, Chase, as they chase (see what I did there?) after Harper’s brother who has gone missing.

The Pros: I didn’t know this was the first book in a series, but I am into it. Ms. Martin plans to write an entire series centered around the men in Chase’s private investigations business. The secondary characters in this book are vibrant, fun, and super hot. I think this book does an excellent job of getting readers excited for the next book in the series, I certainly am.

The Cons: This whole book feels rather two-dimensional. Neither Harper nor Chase have any real depth as characters, and I was having a hard time rooting for them as a couple. Chase is just a difficult character for me to like overall. He is a “good guy” but I just never felt connected with him. Chase is rich, successful, always does the right thing… it’s slightly dull. I also didn’t feel like he has any conflict in his life besides the heroine, who he is somewhat condescending to for most of the book.

I really started to enjoy the plot line in the middle of the book in spite of my irritation with the main characters. I was excited and enjoying things all the way up to the last few chapters and the end. I won’t spoil anything but let’s just say there was a lot of eye-rolling on my part.

Overall, this is a fun, easy, and, for the most part, fast-paced romantic suspense novel. Ms. Martin is clearly a talented author, and I am excited to read future books in this series, THE CONSPIRACY just missed the mark for me.

**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**

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The Conspiracy by Kat Martin
Maximum Security #1

Great introduction to what will no doubt be a wonderful suspense packed romantic thrill ride provided book by book. In book one we meet the Garrett brothers, find out a bit about them and what they do, learn about Maximum Security (one of the businesses of the Garrett brothers) and are introduced to a number of people that may show up in future books of the series. That said...THIS book is about Chase Garrett and Harper Winston.

Harper’s brother Michael has not checked in for a long enough time that she is worried and the person she feels most likely to help her find him is Garrett. So, she approaches him and in the first portion of the book the two head off together to follow the trail and try to find out what is what. This section is filled with suspense and action and seems to conclude only to have a twist appear that leads the story on to another story line that is still related to the reason Michael disappeared in the first place.

Back in the USA again the story continues with Harper in danger and potential romance happening between Harper and Chase although the two do have some questions about whether or not they should pursue a relationship. And...I don’t want to give anything away so will say there was some yes-no-maybe going on but both really do like one another so it is more than likely they will get their HEA.

In addition to the main thread of this story there are a few Maximum Security jobs undertaken that give an idea of what types of stories might occur in future books of the series. Maximum Security provides body guards, does private investigative work, seeks the lost and runaways, coordinates with police and other law enforcement bodies, does bail bond enforcement and no doubt other things, too. The men that work for the firm are many and hunky and worth thinking about and no doubt will get books as the series progresses.

There was a lot going on and in many ways this is more a romantic suspense fantasy than reality story. Why? Well...humans are just that and not superheroes but then...when you pick up fiction you have to leave reality behind...at least a bit.

* Did I enjoy this book? Yes
* Do I want to read more books in this series? Definitely...I mean...Hawk? Of COURSE I want to read his story!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for the ARC – This is my honest review.

3-4 Stars

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The Conspiracy by Kat Martin is the first book in her new Maximum Security series. We meet our heroine, Harper Winston, at the start, as she is taking matters in her own hands to search for her missing brother. She knows he went on a dream vacation sailing in the Caribbean, and after a few days of texting back and forth, he suddenly stopped responding. Harper will then ask someone she hasn’t seen in years, to help her find her brother.

Chase Garrett, our hero, used to be Harper’s brother Michael’s best friend, until he became frustrated at Michael’s use of drugs and behavior. Chase also hates the father of Harper and Michael, knowing he is a bad man with shady dealings with drug lords. Chase owns Maximum Security, and when Harper comes to visit him, he tries to avoid becoming involved, but she convinces him that Michael has changed for the better, and his disappearance is not like him. Chase agrees to take the case, and despite his misgivings, he gives in to Harper’s insistence to come along.

What follows is an exciting, suspenseful adventure where Chase and Harper find themselves in dangerous situations as they try to find and save Michael. As evidence begins to point out that Winston’s dealings with the drug cartel has created enemies who are behind Michaels kidnapping, and Chase will need to bring in his cronies and some team members to try and rescue Michael.

The last half of the book returns back to the states, and Harper becomes the one who is in danger, with a lot of tense exciting action. This will bring Chase and Harper closer together that evolves into a romance. The danger does escalate, and Maximum Security comes into play to find the people trying to kidnap Harper, as well as bring in help from Winston’s men.

I did like both Chase and Harper together. Harper was a savvy, tough beautiful heroine, who was determined to be part of case, and her despair at learning the truths about her father’s crime syndicate. Chase was a great hero, hot, smart, loyal and protective of Harper. It was cute to see Chase’s initial reaction to seeing his friend’s baby sister, and how she was now a grown and very attractive woman.

The Conspiracy was an intriguing, suspenseful, exciting story line that had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I loved Chase and his brothers, who make up Maximum Security and look forward to future books showcasing them. Once again, Kat Martin gives us another exciting thriller. If you enjoy action, suspense, romance and intense crime thrillers, you should read anything by Kat Martin.

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The Conspiracy has a solid start, setting up the storyline and introducing the main characters, and it takes off at a good clip. However, somewhere toward the middle it loses momentum with some serious lags in the story, and I found myself wanting to skim several times throughout the rest of the book. There are plenty of twists and action along the way, but the in between needs some serious tightening up. Most of the characters are pretty straightforward as far as who's good and who's bad - the villains are all, well, villainous in characteristics and looks, and the good guys are nice-looking, well-built, etc. Main characters Chase and Harper do have a bit more development than the secondaries, but some of that development makes them a little hard to connect with. Chase is rather sanctimonious in his opinions and painting everyone in Harper's family with the same brush. And Harper, I just couldn't get on board with her at all. She put me in mind of the swooning ladies from so many historical romances. She does a fair bit of crying and turning pale, and the gasps every time she glimpsed Chase's body grew repetitive and tedious. We have all of that combined with a determined woman ready to jump into the fray and fight shoulder to shoulder with Chase and company. Harper was like two different people and I would've liked to have seen more of that determined and strong heroine. In the end, there were things I liked and things I didn't with this one, and as of right now, I'm undecided on whether I'll continue with the series.

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Let me preface this review by saying that I am by NO MEANS an expert in romantic suspense. This is one of the first books I’ve read that truly fit the genre and I couldn’t be more delighted. The intrigue and drama was top notch. Some scenes may be too graphic (violence) for some readers but it brought the heat and made me look forward to more! I can’t wait to continue reading this series. Kat Martin sets a great scene.

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.

Scorching hot romance and twisty suspense written by one of my favorite authors. It amazes me how consistently wonderful a book by Kat Martin can be. Few authors can just take me away and lead me on an adventure like she can.

When Harper Winston’s brother, Michael, fails to check in while on a sailing trip in the Caribbean, she knows deep down that something is very wrong. When all efforts fail to find him, Harper go to the one person she knows can.

Chase Garrett was Michael's best friend in college, but the two parted ways over Michael's drug use. Harper claims he has cleaned up his act and now runs his own successful tech company, but Chase isn't so sure. As the owner of Maximum Security his job is finding people so he decides to help Harper for old times sake and because the cute 16 year old has turned into a very hot woman. But, it's going to be strictly business because of a deep hatred between their fathers and Harper's dad is not quite the legitimate businessman he wants everyone to see.

Deep in the jungles of Columbia, Chase knows that Michael's kidnapping is not just the snatch and grab of a rich man's son for ransom. It is something much more and now Chase is involved and the only way to keep Harper safe is to trust his instincts and Harper.

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