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Cold Justice #1
A Cold Dark Place
She’s an FBI agent hunting her sister’s killer.
He’s an assassin who’ll die to keep her safe.
His secret will destroy them both.
Former CIA assassin Alex Parker works for a clandestine government organization hell-bent on taking out serial killers and pedophiles before they enter the justice system. Alex doesn't enjoy killing, but he's damn good at it.
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney has spent years hunting the lowlife who abducted her identical twin sister eighteen years ago. Now, during an on-going serial killer investigation, Mallory begins to suspect there's a vigilante operating outside the law.
When Mallory starts asking questions, Alex is ordered to watch her. As soon as they meet, the two begin to fall in love. But the lies and betrayals that define Alex's life threaten to destroy them both—especially when the man who stole her sister all those years ago makes Mallory his next target.
Start reading this award-winning Romantic Suspense series today! Winner of the New England Readers' Choice Award and the Aspen Gold. Available in digital, print, and audiobook format. From New York Times bestselling author Toni Anderson.
This edition features a brand-new cover.
He’s an assassin who’ll die to keep her safe.
His secret will destroy them both.
Former CIA assassin Alex Parker works for a clandestine government organization hell-bent on taking out serial killers and pedophiles before they enter the justice system. Alex doesn't enjoy killing, but he's damn good at it.
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney has spent years hunting the lowlife who abducted her identical twin sister eighteen years ago. Now, during an on-going serial killer investigation, Mallory begins to suspect there's a vigilante operating outside the law.
When Mallory starts asking questions, Alex is ordered to watch her. As soon as they meet, the two begin to fall in love. But the lies and betrayals that define Alex's life threaten to destroy them both—especially when the man who stole her sister all those years ago makes Mallory his next target.
Start reading this award-winning Romantic Suspense series today! Winner of the New England Readers' Choice Award and the Aspen Gold. Available in digital, print, and audiobook format. From New York Times bestselling author Toni Anderson.
This edition features a brand-new cover.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2014
6826 people are currently reading
14072 people want to read
About the author
Toni Anderson
84 books3,259 followersNext Release: COLD HEAT
Put it on your "To Read" shelf.
BUY LINKS:
Put it on your "To Read" shelf.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Toni Anderson® writes gritty, sexy, FBI Romantic Thrillers, and is a New York Times and a USA Today bestselling author. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for excellence in Mystery/Suspense, the Readers' Choice, Aspen Gold, Book Buyers' Best, Golden Quill, and National Excellence in Romance Fiction awards. She’s been a finalist in The Vivian Contest and the RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America, and also in the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s Jackie Collins Award for Romantic Thrillers.
Her books have been downloaded more than three million times.
Best known for her Cold Justice® books perhaps it’s not surprising to discover Toni lives in one of the most extreme climates on earth--Manitoba, Canada. Formerly a Marine Biologist, she still misses the ocean.
In January 2016, she visited FBI Headquarters in Washington DC, including a tour of the Strategic Information and Operations Center.
For more information about Toni:
Website: https://www.toniandersonauthor.com
Store: https://toniandersonshop.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonianderson...
TikTok: tiktok.com/@toni_anderson_author
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toni_anders...
Newsletter: https://www.toniandersonauthor.com/ne...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Start reading Toni's award-winning, bestselling Cold Justice® series with A COLD DARK PLACE.
If you want to know when Toni's next book will be out, visit her website https://www.toniandersonauthor.com or sign up for her newsletter https://www.toniandersonauthor.com/ne...
Put it on your "To Read" shelf.
BUY LINKS:
Put it on your "To Read" shelf.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Toni Anderson® writes gritty, sexy, FBI Romantic Thrillers, and is a New York Times and a USA Today bestselling author. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for excellence in Mystery/Suspense, the Readers' Choice, Aspen Gold, Book Buyers' Best, Golden Quill, and National Excellence in Romance Fiction awards. She’s been a finalist in The Vivian Contest and the RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America, and also in the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s Jackie Collins Award for Romantic Thrillers.
Her books have been downloaded more than three million times.
Best known for her Cold Justice® books perhaps it’s not surprising to discover Toni lives in one of the most extreme climates on earth--Manitoba, Canada. Formerly a Marine Biologist, she still misses the ocean.
In January 2016, she visited FBI Headquarters in Washington DC, including a tour of the Strategic Information and Operations Center.
For more information about Toni:
Website: https://www.toniandersonauthor.com
Store: https://toniandersonshop.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonianderson...
TikTok: tiktok.com/@toni_anderson_author
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toni_anders...
Newsletter: https://www.toniandersonauthor.com/ne...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Start reading Toni's award-winning, bestselling Cold Justice® series with A COLD DARK PLACE.
If you want to know when Toni's next book will be out, visit her website https://www.toniandersonauthor.com or sign up for her newsletter https://www.toniandersonauthor.com/ne...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,377 reviews
July 2, 2014
Originally posted at The Book Nympho
I love it when the action in a suspense novel starts on the first page. This book begins that way and never seems to let up!
Quick summary
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney joined the bureau because she ultimately wanted to find out what happened to her twin sister who was abducted 18 years ago. While tracking a serial killer she stumbles upon information suggesting that a vigilante is operating outside of law enforcement. Former CIA operative Alex Parker is now working for a covert organization whose mission is to take down the most vile criminals before they enter the justice system. As Mallory starts to get closer to discovery, Alex is assigned to "watch" her and ends up getting closer than he'd planned.
The suspense
Women are being abducted and their bodies later discovered, often with significant time spans between the time they went missing and when they were murdered. What makes this even more spine tingling is sometimes we get the points of view from the victims and the killer. Anderson doesn't give you a clue as to who's going to make it, which keeps the tension level awfully high. When the killer begins focusing on Mallory, things get even more dicey.
The romance
Alex and Mallory have great chemistry but always in the background is his duplicity. She doesn't know about his history and he has so many secrets it takes most of the book to uncover them. Alex's blurred lines makes him more interesting and even he gets conflicted as his relationship with Mallory deepens. It's a tricky romance that keeps you wondering how all of this will (or can) be resolved.
The bottom line
The balance is tipped more towards suspense in this story but believe me, the romance doesn't suffer and isn't forsaken. Alex is a compelling "gray" hero, straddling those ethical lines. I couldn't find a good stopping point so I gave up trying to sleep and got up in the middle of the night and finished the book. I also couldn't definitively nail down the identity of the killer until close to the book reveal. That doesn't happen to me very often and the clues were there. Loved this book and I've already bought the next book.
I love it when the action in a suspense novel starts on the first page. This book begins that way and never seems to let up!
Quick summary
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney joined the bureau because she ultimately wanted to find out what happened to her twin sister who was abducted 18 years ago. While tracking a serial killer she stumbles upon information suggesting that a vigilante is operating outside of law enforcement. Former CIA operative Alex Parker is now working for a covert organization whose mission is to take down the most vile criminals before they enter the justice system. As Mallory starts to get closer to discovery, Alex is assigned to "watch" her and ends up getting closer than he'd planned.
The suspense
Women are being abducted and their bodies later discovered, often with significant time spans between the time they went missing and when they were murdered. What makes this even more spine tingling is sometimes we get the points of view from the victims and the killer. Anderson doesn't give you a clue as to who's going to make it, which keeps the tension level awfully high. When the killer begins focusing on Mallory, things get even more dicey.
The romance
Alex and Mallory have great chemistry but always in the background is his duplicity. She doesn't know about his history and he has so many secrets it takes most of the book to uncover them. Alex's blurred lines makes him more interesting and even he gets conflicted as his relationship with Mallory deepens. It's a tricky romance that keeps you wondering how all of this will (or can) be resolved.
The bottom line
The balance is tipped more towards suspense in this story but believe me, the romance doesn't suffer and isn't forsaken. Alex is a compelling "gray" hero, straddling those ethical lines. I couldn't find a good stopping point so I gave up trying to sleep and got up in the middle of the night and finished the book. I also couldn't definitively nail down the identity of the killer until close to the book reveal. That doesn't happen to me very often and the clues were there. Loved this book and I've already bought the next book.
October 10, 2018
A freebie. Got it almost 3 years ago. Not bad, not bad at all. Liked both characters although the heroine did have a stupid moment towards the end.
“Part of her wanted to hang on tight and see where it led. The other part wanted time and space to try and figure out exactly what was happening. But if she’d learned anything over the years it was time and space didn’t always provide answers.”
“Tell me you aren’t as perfect as you seem, Alex.” “Not even close to perfect.” His blue-gray eyes darkened. “Not a complete asshole either.”
March 10, 2020
A Cold Dark Place by Toni Anderson is the first in the Cold Justice series,it's the first I've read from this author but I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next in this series.
It's fast, thrilling and fun,it's also a typical romantic suspense thriller with the FBI , an Assassin, a cat and mouse chase with a murderer oh and a steamy love affair with the assassin and the FBI agent (did I mention a HEA too 😉)
But also the story line is very pacy and keeps you flipping pages it's a quick read because you need to know and can't put it down.
It's definitely worth reading 📖
It's fast, thrilling and fun,it's also a typical romantic suspense thriller with the FBI , an Assassin, a cat and mouse chase with a murderer oh and a steamy love affair with the assassin and the FBI agent (did I mention a HEA too 😉)
But also the story line is very pacy and keeps you flipping pages it's a quick read because you need to know and can't put it down.
It's definitely worth reading 📖
July 22, 2023
2 🤨🤔⭐️s
Many plot holes, poor execution and development, the romance was not great, the suspense adequate and the heroine was not that intelligent...
Many plot holes, poor execution and development, the romance was not great, the suspense adequate and the heroine was not that intelligent...
September 26, 2017
A Cold Dark Place, by Toni Anderson, is the first book in her Cold Justice series.
Former CIA assassin Alex Parker works for a covert government organization disposing of serial killers and pedophiles before they enter the justice system.
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney has spent many years hunting down the madman who abducted her identical twin sister eighteen years earlier. Involved in a serial killer investigation Mallory suspects there is a vigilante at work and feels she must now take him down too.
Toni Anderson magically blends sizzling chemistry between Alex and Mallory with lots of suspenseful action in A Cold Dark Place.
I look forward to the rest of the series!
Former CIA assassin Alex Parker works for a covert government organization disposing of serial killers and pedophiles before they enter the justice system.
FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney has spent many years hunting down the madman who abducted her identical twin sister eighteen years earlier. Involved in a serial killer investigation Mallory suspects there is a vigilante at work and feels she must now take him down too.
Toni Anderson magically blends sizzling chemistry between Alex and Mallory with lots of suspenseful action in A Cold Dark Place.
I look forward to the rest of the series!
January 30, 2023
3 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise. The mystery. The intrigue nuggets thrown in here and there to keep me guessing.
The Not-So-Good: The romantic elements were definitely secondary to the suspense/mystery. Which is fine! I just would've liked a better balance.
The Bad: The ending. I needed much more closure for this couple, especially after all they faced.
Overall: This was enjoyable, especially for a freebie! I enjoyed the serial killer aspect and the H was likable. I just wanted to shake the h a few times and I wanted more closure in the end. Overall, I thought it was just okay.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Mallory and Alex's story. Mallory is a young FBI agent that is always looking for her twin sister's abductor, when she meets Alex. Alex is a secret government assassin that takes out serial killers and pedophiles and he almost gets caught by Mallory and her team when his handler cuts it a little too close. Mallory gets a new job with the BAU, but there is a catch -- she needs to find out who the inside man is that's communicating with the suspected vigilante assassin. The more time they spend together, the more they start to develop feelings and fall in love. There are some suspenseful moments, some mystery, and some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing mainly on Mallory and Alex, but it had some other parts that focused on side characters (like the killer) in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Food. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They don't develop a ton past attraction and lust.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Alex. I liked him more than the h. I felt for his conflicting feelings and I think he was good for the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Mallory. I liked her, but she acted stupid a few times to make me just think she was just okay.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No, I don't consider them together to consider it a separation
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place for the mystery/suspense and an alright place for the romance. I'd call this a HFN ending because we don't get enough commitment for me to call it a HEA (but, again, that's just me being picky)
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise. The mystery. The intrigue nuggets thrown in here and there to keep me guessing.
The Not-So-Good: The romantic elements were definitely secondary to the suspense/mystery. Which is fine! I just would've liked a better balance.
The Bad: The ending. I needed much more closure for this couple, especially after all they faced.
Overall: This was enjoyable, especially for a freebie! I enjoyed the serial killer aspect and the H was likable. I just wanted to shake the h a few times and I wanted more closure in the end. Overall, I thought it was just okay.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Mallory and Alex's story. Mallory is a young FBI agent that is always looking for her twin sister's abductor, when she meets Alex. Alex is a secret government assassin that takes out serial killers and pedophiles and he almost gets caught by Mallory and her team when his handler cuts it a little too close. Mallory gets a new job with the BAU, but there is a catch -- she needs to find out who the inside man is that's communicating with the suspected vigilante assassin. The more time they spend together, the more they start to develop feelings and fall in love. There are some suspenseful moments, some mystery, and some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing mainly on Mallory and Alex, but it had some other parts that focused on side characters (like the killer) in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Food. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They don't develop a ton past attraction and lust.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Alex. I liked him more than the h. I felt for his conflicting feelings and I think he was good for the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Mallory. I liked her, but she acted stupid a few times to make me just think she was just okay.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No, I don't consider them together to consider it a separation
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place for the mystery/suspense and an alright place for the romance. I'd call this a HFN ending because we don't get enough commitment for me to call it a HEA (but, again, that's just me being picky)
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
December 1, 2015
Currently free @ Amazon on Dec 1, 2o15.
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Read on March 7, 2015
The heroine, Mallory is a rookie cop who joined the FBI to search for the person responsible for abducting her twin sister when they were eight years old.
The hero, Alex Parker, is an ex-soldier recruited by a shadowy government organization to act as a vigilante to remove serial killers and pedophiles.
Mallory and Alex's part crossed when she look into the possibility of vigilante activities that caused the death of a serial killer. Alex decided to keep tab on Mallory himself to avoid his upper management to 'dispose' her.
Mallory had been spending all her life searching for closure that she never stop to enjoy her life. Alex is the first man that distract her focus and make her want to be free of her own demon for once.
Alex is one of those soldier that had been screwed over by the government one too many times. His past with the army is not something nice to be reminiscence. Now his service as a vigilante assassin is his only way to achieve the freedom he crave. He had been counting down the days till he is no longer under the government clutch. Mallory might just happened to be the reason that will change his end game.
A serial killer that might have a link to Mallory's twin sister is at large and for once she is finally getting some head way into solving this cold case. But I actually find myself more intrigue with the ongoing secrecy between Alex and Mallory. How will she react when she found out Alex's true identity and how can he dig himself out of the imminent downfall?
Although the suspense with the serial killer is not really that nail biting, this is still a page turner. I think Alex make the story for me. I sympathize with his character and his tortured soul. His dedication in helping Mallory behind the scene without expecting a HEA with her is so selfless and is what make him such a great man. An epilogue towards the end will be highly appreciate, though.
--------------------------------------------------------
Read on March 7, 2015
The heroine, Mallory is a rookie cop who joined the FBI to search for the person responsible for abducting her twin sister when they were eight years old.
The hero, Alex Parker, is an ex-soldier recruited by a shadowy government organization to act as a vigilante to remove serial killers and pedophiles.
Mallory and Alex's part crossed when she look into the possibility of vigilante activities that caused the death of a serial killer. Alex decided to keep tab on Mallory himself to avoid his upper management to 'dispose' her.
Mallory had been spending all her life searching for closure that she never stop to enjoy her life. Alex is the first man that distract her focus and make her want to be free of her own demon for once.
Alex is one of those soldier that had been screwed over by the government one too many times. His past with the army is not something nice to be reminiscence. Now his service as a vigilante assassin is his only way to achieve the freedom he crave. He had been counting down the days till he is no longer under the government clutch. Mallory might just happened to be the reason that will change his end game.
A serial killer that might have a link to Mallory's twin sister is at large and for once she is finally getting some head way into solving this cold case. But I actually find myself more intrigue with the ongoing secrecy between Alex and Mallory. How will she react when she found out Alex's true identity and how can he dig himself out of the imminent downfall?
Although the suspense with the serial killer is not really that nail biting, this is still a page turner. I think Alex make the story for me. I sympathize with his character and his tortured soul. His dedication in helping Mallory behind the scene without expecting a HEA with her is so selfless and is what make him such a great man. An epilogue towards the end will be highly appreciate, though.
June 15, 2018
*June, 2018 - Rereading for group buddy read. - Happy to say this story is just as good the 2nd time around! Suspense, flawed characters, a few shockers, and sizzling chemistry = A Must Read!
2016-Once in awhile, I find a book that pushes all the right buttons. Edge of my seat Suspense ✔ Sizzlin' Romance ✔ Damaged yet strong characters ✔ Plot with twists & turns ✔ Surprise or two near the end ✔ It all adds up to one fantastic read! I loved A Cold Dark Place as it was the perfect blend of everything I love most about Romance/Suspense. A Must Read!
2016-Once in awhile, I find a book that pushes all the right buttons. Edge of my seat Suspense ✔ Sizzlin' Romance ✔ Damaged yet strong characters ✔ Plot with twists & turns ✔ Surprise or two near the end ✔ It all adds up to one fantastic read! I loved A Cold Dark Place as it was the perfect blend of everything I love most about Romance/Suspense. A Must Read!
April 20, 2020
The first book in Toni Anderson's Cold Justice series. At the age of nine, Mallory Rooney's twin, Payton, was kidnapped. Now 18 years later, she is with the FBI and determined to find the kidnapper and discover what happened to her. Alex Parker is an assassin who kills for The Gateway Project. They meet through Mallory's friend, Lucas, and Alex asks her out but Mallory doesn't date. Then Mallory is transferred to Quantico, she runs into Alex again. Meanwhile, there is a serial killer out there to catch and Mallory is on the investigative team.
I really liked this one a lot. I have read a few of Toni Anderson's books and all have been winners for me. She writes in a style that appeals to me. Fast paced but not too fast. Not too much filler but enough background development that I understand what is going on. A great balance of suspense and romance without either getting too much or not enough attention. I highly recommend this one!
I really liked this one a lot. I have read a few of Toni Anderson's books and all have been winners for me. She writes in a style that appeals to me. Fast paced but not too fast. Not too much filler but enough background development that I understand what is going on. A great balance of suspense and romance without either getting too much or not enough attention. I highly recommend this one!
June 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. I liked how the author described certain scenes and events, making me feel like I was watching an episode of Criminal Minds. It was creepy and a bit scary and the murderer's perspective only made it more of a thriller.
It was exciting to know (or at least feel) like no one was safe. Mallory was a rookie agent who had a bit of arrogance that made her feel that she was untouchable. She was a smart and tough cookie, who was no stranger to tragedy ever since her identical twin was taken and has remained missing. All she wants is to find out what happened to her and get some justice. Alex was a man who was burdened by the tragedy as well. A trained killer, he was extemely patriotic, but he knew how to color outside the lines.
This story worked so well that I'll definitely be reading more of this series.
Find more on on the blog
It was exciting to know (or at least feel) like no one was safe. Mallory was a rookie agent who had a bit of arrogance that made her feel that she was untouchable. She was a smart and tough cookie, who was no stranger to tragedy ever since her identical twin was taken and has remained missing. All she wants is to find out what happened to her and get some justice. Alex was a man who was burdened by the tragedy as well. A trained killer, he was extemely patriotic, but he knew how to color outside the lines.
This story worked so well that I'll definitely be reading more of this series.
Find more on on the blog
July 7, 2025
Finished Reading December 10, 2015
A Cold Dark Place by Toni Anderson
Genres: Adult, Crime, Romance, Suspense
4.5 Stars
Got my attention and held it throughout the book.
Well written.
The characters are well developed and interesting.
More of a crime suspense novel than a romance. A lot of action and keeps you guessing to the end who the serial killer is, but gives you clues as the story unfolds.
A satisfying and all around good read. The suspense was spot on. The romance was well done, but the actual sex scenes seemed just a bit rushed to me.
You are never sure how Mallory is going to react to the truth of who Alex is till the end.
I will be adding book #2 Cold Pursuit to my TBR pile.
Purchased from Amazon November 30, 2015
A Cold Dark Place by Toni Anderson
Genres: Adult, Crime, Romance, Suspense
4.5 Stars
Got my attention and held it throughout the book.
Well written.
The characters are well developed and interesting.
More of a crime suspense novel than a romance. A lot of action and keeps you guessing to the end who the serial killer is, but gives you clues as the story unfolds.
A satisfying and all around good read. The suspense was spot on. The romance was well done, but the actual sex scenes seemed just a bit rushed to me.
You are never sure how Mallory is going to react to the truth of who Alex is till the end.
I will be adding book #2 Cold Pursuit to my TBR pile.
Purchased from Amazon November 30, 2015
October 5, 2022
Freaking amazing story! Totally gripping, freaky, steamy, even made me weepy. I need more!
August 30, 2015
Mallory Rooney has worked her whole life to become an FBI agent and solve the case of the abduction of her identical twin from their bedroom when they were 9 years old. With the execution style death of a serial killer, Mallory begins to suspect a vigilante is working with information from inside the Bureau. She has worked for years to bring her sister's abductor and killer to justice and believes in the justice system, so she wants this vigilante stopped and jailed, also.
Alex Parker, former soldier, former CIA, now assassin for The Gateway Project has an agreement to ignore his conscience for three years and eliminate proven serial killers before they can destroy more victims and families in exchange for getting him out of a Moroccan prison. Even with the deal, Alex still makes his own decision if he will or will not eliminate the subject.
As the FBI tries to catch a serial killer who is abducting and killing young women in the same area that 18 years previously, Mallory's sister was taken, Alex meets Mallory and is drawn to her from the first moment they meet. At first he is there to make sure she doesn't identify him as the vigilante, but he soon wants only to protect her as they realize the killer wants her. So many secrets, not just from Alex, but from everyone around Mallory. The ending was very satisfying. The suspense is nonstop and the romance is hot. I loved this book and can't wait to start the next book in this series!
Alex Parker, former soldier, former CIA, now assassin for The Gateway Project has an agreement to ignore his conscience for three years and eliminate proven serial killers before they can destroy more victims and families in exchange for getting him out of a Moroccan prison. Even with the deal, Alex still makes his own decision if he will or will not eliminate the subject.
As the FBI tries to catch a serial killer who is abducting and killing young women in the same area that 18 years previously, Mallory's sister was taken, Alex meets Mallory and is drawn to her from the first moment they meet. At first he is there to make sure she doesn't identify him as the vigilante, but he soon wants only to protect her as they realize the killer wants her. So many secrets, not just from Alex, but from everyone around Mallory. The ending was very satisfying. The suspense is nonstop and the romance is hot. I loved this book and can't wait to start the next book in this series!
dnf-nope
April 6, 2023DNF @ 20%
I love the fbi x cia agent/ assassin trope but how is it hot if he loved her TWIN sister. Makes me think the only reason he fell for the heroine is because she looks exactly like the woman he loved.
Reasons for DNF:
-He was in love with her twin sister.
-He thinks the heroine is a whore and wants to make her pay.
Safety:
Heroine has been celibate for 2 years- idk about the H
H was in love with h’s twin sister
I love the fbi x cia agent/ assassin trope but how is it hot if he loved her TWIN sister. Makes me think the only reason he fell for the heroine is because she looks exactly like the woman he loved.
Reasons for DNF:
-He was in love with her twin sister.
-He thinks the heroine is a whore and wants to make her pay.
Safety:
Heroine has been celibate for 2 years- idk about the H
H was in love with h’s twin sister
February 16, 2021
Page turner
This was a thrilling ride, a page turner. I recommend this book to those that enjoy reading FBI profiling, serial killers and a touch of romance.
This was a thrilling ride, a page turner. I recommend this book to those that enjoy reading FBI profiling, serial killers and a touch of romance.
June 16, 2021
Mallory Rooney became an FBI Agent because of the kidnapping of her twin sister Payton at the age of nine. Mallory and her team are searching for a serial killer when they find that he has been assassinated by a vigilante. As Mallory is trying to research the identity of the vigilante, she is transferred to the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) at Quantico. Alex Parker is a former CIA Operative who now works for a secret government organization that wants to rid the world of killers and pedophiles before they are arrested and spend years appealing their convictions. Alex has been told to keep an eye on Mallory to make sure she doesn't discover their organization.
BAU's newest case is a series of rapes and murders of young, dark-haired women. The killer has left a calling card; the initials "PR" have been carved into the skin of each victim. Mallory begins to believe that her sister's killer may be striking again. Alex thinks the same thing. He also believes that the killer may be targeting Mallory next. He needs to find the killer before that happens.
This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last. It had a nice balance of romance and suspense. I liked the mystery. There were a couple of twists that surprised me. Alex and Mallory are drawn to each other; yet he is the vigilante that she is has been searching for. I liked both characters and I want to jump right into the next book in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
BAU's newest case is a series of rapes and murders of young, dark-haired women. The killer has left a calling card; the initials "PR" have been carved into the skin of each victim. Mallory begins to believe that her sister's killer may be striking again. Alex thinks the same thing. He also believes that the killer may be targeting Mallory next. He needs to find the killer before that happens.
This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last. It had a nice balance of romance and suspense. I liked the mystery. There were a couple of twists that surprised me. Alex and Mallory are drawn to each other; yet he is the vigilante that she is has been searching for. I liked both characters and I want to jump right into the next book in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
July 11, 2019
She was a federal agent who lived to uphold the law. He was a killer who’d die to keep her safe.
* Could be read as standalone.
This book is everything that suspense romance should be;
* great flow of the writing
* perfectly paired main couple who are so unperfect which makes them so much more real
* gripping plot which just at the moments you think you figure it out, surprises you with an unexpected twist
If you love political drama and criminal mystery with steamy parts left in it- this is a book for you.
As this is a hunt for a serial killer it is sufficient to say there are many triggers so if you have some of these issues stay away
I am very curious about future books and overall books by this author. This is my first book by her. I will read more definitely.
I thought to give it four stars but that extra star is for the plot and superb writing!
* Could be read as standalone.
This book is everything that suspense romance should be;
* great flow of the writing
* perfectly paired main couple who are so unperfect which makes them so much more real
* gripping plot which just at the moments you think you figure it out, surprises you with an unexpected twist
If you love political drama and criminal mystery with steamy parts left in it- this is a book for you.
As this is a hunt for a serial killer it is sufficient to say there are many triggers so if you have some of these issues stay away
I am very curious about future books and overall books by this author. This is my first book by her. I will read more definitely.
I thought to give it four stars but that extra star is for the plot and superb writing!
February 16, 2022
I found this book completely by accident one night while searching for an audiobook, and this author came up. I'm so happy that I took a chance on this author! I really loved the story, loved both main characters, love the mystery/thriller, and the relationship was perfect. It's often hard to find that balance between an alpha male who is also a sensitive man. And an h who is strong and competent but also has a softer side. These two were so lovely together ♥️
February 4, 2015
A really good and interesting book.
I liked very much both the hero and the heroine, even if she did have a TSTL moment towards the end! ;)
Still the story was intriguing and the villain creepy enough to make things interesting.
A nice pace and good writing made it even better!
I liked very much both the hero and the heroine, even if she did have a TSTL moment towards the end! ;)
Still the story was intriguing and the villain creepy enough to make things interesting.
A nice pace and good writing made it even better!
June 5, 2015
Yet another book where a writer's fan club skews the ratings. This is a book that has an interesting and harrowing premise, but the way it is handled bangles it (really, a senator's daughter and the police did not search the whole grounds in Colby, particularly the woods abutting the senator's property? No heat detectors? No thorough questioning of the neighbours? I could have done a better job and without all that technology at my disposal). It also has two characters who could have been stellar, but they are not. We get details about their lives but put together those details do not make a whole.
What spoils the book further is the terribly confused moral reasoning. It wants to be a reflection on the clash between principles and ideals of justice and the practices that bring it about. But instead of being that, it is a mish mash of confused platitudes about 'right' and 'wrong'.
The heroine, who carefully avoids the general stupidity of female FBI/Special Operations/Police etc. characters (where total lack of common sense and awareness of one's limits are passing for 'strength' and 'independence') for about 75% of the story , had to succumb to the general affliction of RS heroines and turn stupid.
As a general rule, writers need a 'spectacular show down' for their finale, and that is where the worst crimes against common sense, against mere believability are committed. In this case, Mallory (the heroine), who's been rather free of idiotic-jumping-into-conclusions up to a few chapters before the end, decides that her self-defence training and a gun are enough to protect her from a very dangerous and determined serial killer, who has come very close to abducting and killing her on several occasions, and she knows it! She suddenly decides she can do without the man who has provided effective protection to her on numerous occasions and she takes him out of circulation! Suddenly, she wants to be alone to clear her head, to think things over, and, crucially, catch the serial killer by herself!!! Why is this woman suddenly convinced she does not need the help of the man who stood between the killer and herself? Such sudden confidence! Especially at a time when she feels an emotional wreck. This last portion of the book ruined the whole book for me (early on something happened, the letting of air out of her tyres, only days after she had two masked men breaking into her house, yet she dismisses the incident as a colleague's spiteful behaviour! That stupid attitude did take me out of the story for a while), and it showed that Anderson had no clue as to how to end her book, falling back in the tried and trusted path of turning the heroine into a mind-numbing idiot. There are also other unacceptably silly elements exploding like megaton bombs of stupid at the end of this story. Like, a whole chorus of FBI and government agents and covert operatives confessing everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, in front of the apprehended serial killer!!!!!!!! You'd think that the first thing they learn in their ultra-expensive training programmes is to keep their f*cking trap shut. Unbelievable, ridiculous and risible beyond belief.
This could have been a book the Anderson fan club could have justifiably been proud of but it is not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2014
A Cold Dark Place is quite the fitting title to this novel. Alex Parker is a man who prefers the darkness to do what he is entrusted to do. Employed by an organization known as “The Gateway Project” that is so deeply hidden in the layered complexities of the US government, Alex is an assassin who enacts justice by killing the worst sort of scum. Counting down the days until he would be free of his promise that binds him to his employers, his job becomes doubly dangerous when he realizes that someone on the inside is out to make him and that someone is the deliciously enticing FBI Special Agent Mallory Rooney to whom his instant attraction makes her a more than dangerous “adversary”.
Mallory’s life mission for the past eighteen years has been to become smart enough and tough enough to find her twin sister’s abductor and bring him to justice. The pain that she lives through every single day, blaming herself for not being there for the one and only person with whom she had shared an inexplicable connection with is what drives her, even when she meets the same dead end, time and yet again. Though her experience in hunting killers and analyzing their behavior is limited, her sharp intelligence and observation skills ends her up in the BAU and in the direct sight of the man who would do everything in his power to claim her as a replacement for his lost love. [...]
Rating = 4/5
Caliber SEAL: GREAT READ
Mallory’s life mission for the past eighteen years has been to become smart enough and tough enough to find her twin sister’s abductor and bring him to justice. The pain that she lives through every single day, blaming herself for not being there for the one and only person with whom she had shared an inexplicable connection with is what drives her, even when she meets the same dead end, time and yet again. Though her experience in hunting killers and analyzing their behavior is limited, her sharp intelligence and observation skills ends her up in the BAU and in the direct sight of the man who would do everything in his power to claim her as a replacement for his lost love. [...]
Rating = 4/5
Caliber SEAL: GREAT READ
February 7, 2021
Thought it was way to fluffy and cute then what I had in mind going in. Was hoping for more suspensive and badass characters but feelt this was more of a fluffy contempery romance then the romantic suspensfull novel I was hoping for.
January 4, 2022
4 to 4 1/2 stars
October 13, 2019
A Cold Dark Place
4.5 Stars
Rookie FBI agent Mallory Rooney has dedicated her life to finding the man who abducted her twin sister 18 years earlier. Following her most recent case, Mallory begins to suspect that a vigilante is at work disposing of pedophiles and serial killers. As she investigates, the powers behind the vigilante order former CIA assassin and current security expert, Alex Parker to keep an eye on Mallory. However, the secrets that Alex keeps begin to take their toll, especially once a deranged killer sets his sights on Mallory, and Alex may be forced to reveal his identity in order to save her.
A gripping serial killer plot with intriguing characters and an engaging romance.
The suspense plot is well-developed with several spine-tingling twists that culminate in an exciting climax. The moral ambiguity surrounding the theme of vigilante justice adds another layer of intensity to the story and the characterization as nothing is as it seems. Nevertheless, the resolution to this thread is a bit too easy for my tastes.
The keeping secrets trope is usually a huge turn off for me, but it is exceedingly well done in this case. Rather than constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, Alex’s secret identity only enhances the tension and chemistry that exists between him and Mallory.
Mallory is an intelligent and resilient heroine coping to the best of her ability with an awful childhood trauma. She thankfully manages to avoid the TSTL trap for the majority of the book, and her one misstep is understandable given the circumstances.
All in all, a fast paced read with an excellent mix of romance and suspense. Looking forward to continuing with the series very soon.
4.5 Stars
Rookie FBI agent Mallory Rooney has dedicated her life to finding the man who abducted her twin sister 18 years earlier. Following her most recent case, Mallory begins to suspect that a vigilante is at work disposing of pedophiles and serial killers. As she investigates, the powers behind the vigilante order former CIA assassin and current security expert, Alex Parker to keep an eye on Mallory. However, the secrets that Alex keeps begin to take their toll, especially once a deranged killer sets his sights on Mallory, and Alex may be forced to reveal his identity in order to save her.
A gripping serial killer plot with intriguing characters and an engaging romance.
The suspense plot is well-developed with several spine-tingling twists that culminate in an exciting climax. The moral ambiguity surrounding the theme of vigilante justice adds another layer of intensity to the story and the characterization as nothing is as it seems. Nevertheless, the resolution to this thread is a bit too easy for my tastes.
The keeping secrets trope is usually a huge turn off for me, but it is exceedingly well done in this case. Rather than constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, Alex’s secret identity only enhances the tension and chemistry that exists between him and Mallory.
Mallory is an intelligent and resilient heroine coping to the best of her ability with an awful childhood trauma. She thankfully manages to avoid the TSTL trap for the majority of the book, and her one misstep is understandable given the circumstances.
All in all, a fast paced read with an excellent mix of romance and suspense. Looking forward to continuing with the series very soon.
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March 6, 2024"This author surprises me with every book I read. She is a newer author for me and I am really enjoying the journey. I'm excited to start the next book because the last series I loved the second book even more than the first. If you love romantic suspense, then I would dive in with me." ~Bitch Can Write A Book.
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February 22, 2017
DNF@32%
I tried my best to like this book. I really did. But for some strange reason I just couldn't get into it and I found it a struggle in the end.
I admit what drew me in was the blurb as it sounded interesting and when I got around to finally reading it I was slightly disappointed. There was nothing wrong with the narrative style or the characters. From what I read the premises seemed well written; there was plenty of mystery and action and Alex and Mallory were believable (I liked Alex a bit more as he seemed to have had a dark past and because he's an assassin). However it didn't hold my interest like I hoped it would.
It's like the other day I reached 12% and I felt that the beginning was a bit too slow for me. So I decided to take a break from reading this to read another book. I thought I was going through a dry spell and I hoped when I did come back to this book that I will start to enjoy it while making progress. Unfortunately the more I read it, the more bored/unfocused I was getting. To be honest I was debating whether or not I should make it to the halfway point, yet at the same time I couldn't bring myself to force myself to read anymore.
I'm sure Toni Anderson is a great writer and I certainly respect her talent. Having said that, I don't think her books are my cup of my tea. Maybe I'm kinda new to the whole crime/mystery genre. Don't let my review discourage you; if you like this book then fair enough.
I tried my best to like this book. I really did. But for some strange reason I just couldn't get into it and I found it a struggle in the end.
I admit what drew me in was the blurb as it sounded interesting and when I got around to finally reading it I was slightly disappointed. There was nothing wrong with the narrative style or the characters. From what I read the premises seemed well written; there was plenty of mystery and action and Alex and Mallory were believable (I liked Alex a bit more as he seemed to have had a dark past and because he's an assassin). However it didn't hold my interest like I hoped it would.
It's like the other day I reached 12% and I felt that the beginning was a bit too slow for me. So I decided to take a break from reading this to read another book. I thought I was going through a dry spell and I hoped when I did come back to this book that I will start to enjoy it while making progress. Unfortunately the more I read it, the more bored/unfocused I was getting. To be honest I was debating whether or not I should make it to the halfway point, yet at the same time I couldn't bring myself to force myself to read anymore.
I'm sure Toni Anderson is a great writer and I certainly respect her talent. Having said that, I don't think her books are my cup of my tea. Maybe I'm kinda new to the whole crime/mystery genre. Don't let my review discourage you; if you like this book then fair enough.
August 22, 2019
This started out with an interesting premise, and that’s about it. The romance consisted of the h/H boning and deciding it was special. The serial killer ended up being some rando, instead of someone in the h’s midst. So disappointing.
We only get to see the vigilante assassin kill ONE bad guy! Then he’s all Mr Nice Guy. The conclusion and cover up were so far fetched, my eyeballs almost rolled right out of my head!
How does this have high ratings? 1.5 stars rounded up to 2 stars.
We only get to see the vigilante assassin kill ONE bad guy! Then he’s all Mr Nice Guy. The conclusion and cover up were so far fetched, my eyeballs almost rolled right out of my head!
How does this have high ratings? 1.5 stars rounded up to 2 stars.
December 17, 2019
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
La serie Cold Justice è l’esplorazione oscura del giusto e dell’errore nella giustizia. Una giusta punizione potrebbe essere adatta per i serial killer e i pedofili? Un gruppo non autorizzato all’interno del governo degli Stati Uniti la pensa in questo modo e usa i loro assassini per portarli fuori bypassando il sistema giudiziario. Alex Parker è un uomo che preferisce l’oscurità per fare ciò che gli è stato affidato. È un assassino che uccide il peggior tipo di feccia umana. È un personaggio così profondo e complicato, le cui linee del bene e del male diventano sempre più sfocate e ciò lo rende ancora più interessante, ma le circostanze lo spingono verso l’area grigia della vendetta. Il suo lavoro diventa doppiamente pericoloso quando si rende conto di provare per l’affascinante agente speciale Mallory Rooney un’attrazione immediata che la rende un avversario più che pericoloso. Mallory ha sempre avuto l’obiettivo da quando sua sorella gemella è stata rapita, di trovare l’uomo che l’ha presa per consegnarlo alla giustizia. Nonostante ciò che è accaduto crede ancora nel sistema giudiziario. Pagina dopo pagina vediamo il dolore che ogni giorno le attanaglia il petto, i sensi di colpa che ha per non essere stata presente durante il rapimento di sua sorella. È una protagonista forte, ha un’acuta intelligenza e un’ottima capacità di osservazione. Quando Alex la incontra si sente subito attratto da lei, dalla luce che emana anche se pensa di essere perso nell’oscurità senza possibilità di redenzione. La caccia al serial killer è piuttosto complessa. L’autrice, infatti, ha fatto un ottimo lavoro per scrivere una storia intricata per darci un sorprendente finale. Ho amato ancora di più la storia per la presenza dei punti di vista non solo dei protagonisti ma anche delle vittime e del killer; ciò, infatti, rende la storia ancora più intrigante e avvincente e conferisce ritmo e tensione in ogni pagina. È raro trovare un libro che mantenga il giusto equilibrio tra la parte romantica e quella suspense poiché in molti libri una delle due è predominante, ma in questo libro l’autrice mantiene costante entrambe le parti. La suspense è ben sviluppata insieme ai numerosi colpi di scena che culminano in un’elettrizzante climax. L’ambiguità morale che circonda il tema della giustizia aggiunge uno strato di intensità alla storia e alla caratterizzazione in quanto nulla è come sembra...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
La serie Cold Justice è l’esplorazione oscura del giusto e dell’errore nella giustizia. Una giusta punizione potrebbe essere adatta per i serial killer e i pedofili? Un gruppo non autorizzato all’interno del governo degli Stati Uniti la pensa in questo modo e usa i loro assassini per portarli fuori bypassando il sistema giudiziario. Alex Parker è un uomo che preferisce l’oscurità per fare ciò che gli è stato affidato. È un assassino che uccide il peggior tipo di feccia umana. È un personaggio così profondo e complicato, le cui linee del bene e del male diventano sempre più sfocate e ciò lo rende ancora più interessante, ma le circostanze lo spingono verso l’area grigia della vendetta. Il suo lavoro diventa doppiamente pericoloso quando si rende conto di provare per l’affascinante agente speciale Mallory Rooney un’attrazione immediata che la rende un avversario più che pericoloso. Mallory ha sempre avuto l’obiettivo da quando sua sorella gemella è stata rapita, di trovare l’uomo che l’ha presa per consegnarlo alla giustizia. Nonostante ciò che è accaduto crede ancora nel sistema giudiziario. Pagina dopo pagina vediamo il dolore che ogni giorno le attanaglia il petto, i sensi di colpa che ha per non essere stata presente durante il rapimento di sua sorella. È una protagonista forte, ha un’acuta intelligenza e un’ottima capacità di osservazione. Quando Alex la incontra si sente subito attratto da lei, dalla luce che emana anche se pensa di essere perso nell’oscurità senza possibilità di redenzione. La caccia al serial killer è piuttosto complessa. L’autrice, infatti, ha fatto un ottimo lavoro per scrivere una storia intricata per darci un sorprendente finale. Ho amato ancora di più la storia per la presenza dei punti di vista non solo dei protagonisti ma anche delle vittime e del killer; ciò, infatti, rende la storia ancora più intrigante e avvincente e conferisce ritmo e tensione in ogni pagina. È raro trovare un libro che mantenga il giusto equilibrio tra la parte romantica e quella suspense poiché in molti libri una delle due è predominante, ma in questo libro l’autrice mantiene costante entrambe le parti. La suspense è ben sviluppata insieme ai numerosi colpi di scena che culminano in un’elettrizzante climax. L’ambiguità morale che circonda il tema della giustizia aggiunge uno strato di intensità alla storia e alla caratterizzazione in quanto nulla è come sembra...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
August 3, 2016
4 - 4.5 Stars
First read by TA - Really good RS!
First read by TA - Really good RS!
January 29, 2018
A Cold Dark Place is book 1 in the Cold Justice series by Toni Anderson. I have read books that occur later in the series and enjoyed the blend of Criminal Minds and Scandal (with less wine). In book 1, Mallory is an FBI agent transferred to the BAU after she discovers a vigilante and a mole in the FBI. She is also hunting the man who kidnapped and killed her sister when they were still children. Alex is a 'security expert' who moonlights as an assassin for The Gateway Project which is a black ops division of the CIA. The characters all converge on the hunt for a man abducting women with a certain look that all leads back to Mallory's sister. Throw in Mallory's mom who is a senator, her father who is a judge, an entire team of BAU agents who are skeptical of Mallory's reason for being at the BAU and you have a tangled web of lies and deceit.
Mallory is a young FBI agent who gets caught up in a major cover up. This leads to a chance to really investigate her sister's murder. Mallory is smart and driven-torn between survivors guilt and familial duty. There is a LOT going on the story that will require you to listen closely for sure. Alex is a complex guy. He was a soldier who joined the CIA to get revenge on those who set up his fellow soldiers. But, the stint in the CIA goes bad as well and now he is bitter and jaded. However, he falls hard and fast for Mallory and is determined to help her. But he also has to keep her from discovering his secret assassin duties or he will end up on death row!
The narrator did a great job. His female voices weren't over done and he created different voices for each character which really helps when there are as many characters as Anderson has here!
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: FBI/CIA
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone within an interconnected series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
books by Rachel Grant, Cynthia Eden's Killer Instinct Series, Laura Griffin's Tracers series...then you will probably like A Cold Dark Place!
A Cold Dark Place
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