Leverage, p.1
Leverage, page 1
Table of Contents
Cover
Synopsis
Bella Books Social Media
Praise for the works of E. J. Noyes
Other Bella Books by E. J. Noyes
About the Author
Title Page
Copyright
Acknowledgments
Author’s Note
Prologue
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-one
Chapter Twenty-two
Chapter Twenty-three
Chapter Twenty-four
Chapter Twenty-five
Chapter Twenty-six
Chapter Twenty-seven
Chapter Twenty-eight
Bella Books
Synopsis
Last month, intelligence analyst Lexie Martin found out a secret that could ruin lives. After a week on the run from her own government with her maybe-almost girlfriend, Sophia Flores, Lexie was forced to turn herself in and accept her punishment. But that punishment never came…
Aside from Lexie’s confusion about the whys of her release, things seem to be okay—she’s free, back at work, and is officially dating Sophia, which is way better than just okay. But when you embarrass the most powerful man in the country, you risk incurring his petty wrath, and when Lexie is reassigned back into a field position in a hostile country, she’s sure it’s retaliation for knowing the truth and that the president is going to leverage what Lexie did to keep her in line.
Now Lexie has a new mission. Make it home to the woman she loves.
Book Two in the Halcyon Division Series.
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Praise for the works of E. J. Noyes
Integrity
Noyes writes in first-person point of view like no other. This author made me see and feel everything through Lexie’s eyes. Noyes’ writing is beautiful and real, I loved getting lost in the main character’s head and re-read several paragraphs because they were so poignant.
Noyes always writes witty, funny heartfelt dialogue and this book has all of that in bucket loads.
-The Lesbian Review
Noyes never fails to impress me with her talent. She is fearless in her storytelling, never hesitating to flesh it out and let the story take her where it will. Because she does, it feels organic to the reader. Scenes don’t feel forced. They work. Furthermore, they advance the plot. It all works to prove Noyes is a master at producing stories that are pure, indulgent escapism. Readers get so caught up in the narrative that it’s over before they know it and they’re a little disappointed that it has. However, a true Noyes fan always knows that the reread is going to be just as good, if not better than the first time through... Book one of the Halcyon Division Series is a fantastic beginning; I have no doubt readers are going to enjoy this journey and sign up for more. This is heart-pumping, non-stop, page-flipping fun, and one heck of a ride! My recommendation: don’t miss out!
-Women Using Words
Schuss
This is an absolutely charming first-love, new-adult romance between characters that I had already bonded with. Seeing how they have grown and matured in the four years is a treat and watching the two struggle with their feelings for each other just melted my heart… Schuss could be read as a standalone novel, but honestly, I think you should read both books together. They are wonderful stories, and I highly recommend them.
-Betty H., NetGalley
E. J. Noyes has this way of writing characters that you get completely absorbed into. When we were left with the Gemma and Stacey cliffhanger in Gold, I was hoping we’d get their story and it was phenomenal.
-Les Bereading, NetGalley
If I Don’t Ask
If I Don’t Ask adds a profound depth to Sabine and Rebecca’s story, and slots in perfectly with what we already knew about the characters and their motivations.
-Kaylee K., NetGalley
Overall, another winner by E. J. Noyes. An absolute pleasure to read. 5 stars.
-Lez Review Books
Go Around
Noyes excels at writing both romance and intrigue and it shows in this book. Her characters might as well be real they are so well-written. I’m a pretty big fan of second-chance love stories, and I love the way this one is done. You get the angst you expect from the two women trying to get past the pain of their separation and work their way back to being a couple in love. The outside forces that had a role in their breakup are still around and have to be dealt with. Add in a nasty bad guy (or guys) who are physically and psychologically stalking Elise and you get a tale full of danger, excitement, intrigue, and romance. I also love the Easter egg the author included for her book Alone. I actually laughed out loud at that little scene. E. J. Noyes’ works always get my highest praise and recommendation, and this novel is no different. You really need to read this book.
-Betty H., NetGalley
In Go Around, E. J. Noyes has dipped her toes in the second-chance romance pool and was masterful in blending angst, enduring love and suspense in it. The chemistry and dynamics between the pair were thick and palpable but what stood out for me throughout the book was the type of love everyone wished they had; fierce and protective, grounded in loyalty, passionate yet to be able to just be when you are with the other. Noyes also made Bennet, Avery’s dog another highlight for me. He was the tension breaker and a giant darling.
-Nutmeg, NetGalley
Pas de deux
Pas de deux doesn’t disappoint: the writing is excellent, the pace is ideal, the characters are layered and, yes, relatable, including the secondary characters, from Caitlyn’s groom Wren, to Addie’s friend Teresa and, of course, Dewey the horse. One of the many things I loved in this book is the way the MCs deal with problems. They do this very adult and very rare-in-lesfic thing: they talk to each other. This book is proof that miscommunication isn’t required for drama. Neither is a breakup. Well-fleshed characters with very human hang-ups bring all the angst and drama necessary. It’s all the more interesting here as Pas de deux is part enemies-to-lovers romance, part second chance, depending on whose point of view is playing.
-Les Rêveur
This story is not the traditional enemies-to-lovers romance, and I love that. Noyes really puts emphasis on how skewed memories can become as you get older, and how an experience may appear different to another person who had the exact same one. Even if you are unfamiliar with dressage, Noyes’ writing is still spot-on and delivers the same compelling, fun, and intriguing story with loveable characters of both the two-legged and four-legged kind. This love letter to a sport she obviously has a passion for is so evident and I felt honored to have her share her passion with me and every reader who picks it up. If you love horses, enemies-to-lovers, or even just Noyes’ stories in general, this one will definitely be a favorite on your list.
-The Lesbian Review
Reaping the Benefits
The story is quite eccentric with its paranormal context but in fact is a pure romance at heart with a nice dose of humor. The book is written in third person, from the point of view of both protagonists, which is not common for Noyes, but it is executed perfectly. With all main elements done well, this makes an awesome read which I could easily recommend to all romance fans.
-Pin’s Reviews, goodreads
I’ve read many love stories that entertain the idea of soul mates, but this one does something even more interesting. This one explores the depth of love and its ability to transcend death. This story plays with the idea that love has no limits or boundaries. Its exploration provides a unique setting for this heartfelt romantic tale. At its core it remains a romance. The love story between Jane and Morgan is tender and sweet. It’s so cleverly and delightfully done; I’ve never read anything quite like it before. Noyes possesses the ability to see a story where others don’t and turn that into something unique and captivating. She uses rich storytelling and engaging characters to enthrall and delight us.
It’s fresh and original. It’s everything you crave when you want to dig into a great romance. I highly recommend it.
-Deb M., NetGalley
If you’re looking for a lesbian romance, but with a twist of something different, I recommend Reaping the Benefits. It’s sweet, sexy, and fun.
-The Lesbian Review
If the Shoe Fits
When we pick up an E. J. Noyes book we expect intensity, characters with issues (circumstantial and/or internal), and a romance that builds believably. Considering this is Ask, Tell #3 we expected all of the above layered with epic seriousness. We were pleasantly surprised and totally floored by
-Best Lesfic Reviews
Alone
E. J. Noyes is easily one of the most gifted writers pulling us into whatever world she creates making us live and feel every emotion with her characters. Definitely, loudly, vehemently recommended.
-Reviewer@Large, NetGalley
Alone is an absolutely stunning book. This book is not a 5-star, it is well above that. You don’t see books like this one very often. Truly a treasure and one that will stay with you long after the final page.
-Tiff’s Reviews, goodreads
There are only a few books out there so compelling they seem to take control of you and force you to read them as quickly as possible. You can’t put them down. You just want the world to go away and leave you alone until you can finish this story. Alone by E. J. Noyes is that book for me. This novel is absolutely wonderful.
-Betty H., NetGalley
Not only is this easily one of the best books of 2019, but it has worked its way onto my personal all-time top 10 list. There is not one formulaic thing going on, and it’s “unputdownable.”
-Karen C., NetGalley
I cannot give this anything more than five stars, but damn I wish I could. I would give it 15.
-Carolyn M., NetGalley
Ask Me Again
Not every story needs a sequel. Ask, Tell demanded it, and Noyes delivers in spectacular fashion. Sabine and Rebecca show us their fortitude and their strength in their love for each other…Thank you, Noyes, for giving us a great story, a great series, and amazing women that teach us the best things in life are worth fighting for.
There really is only one way to tell this story, and Noyes executes it perfectly. She gives us events from the first-person perspective. However, she alternates each chapter between Sabine’s point of view and Rebecca’s point of view. You’re able to get the full perspective of their inner feelings and turmoil they hide from one another. In addition, you’re able to get the complete picture of the unconditional love Sabine and Rebecca have for each other. It’s this little light of love that propels the reader to keep going and hope these women will finally reach the end of the darkness.
-The Lesbian Review
Gold
This is Noyes’ third book, and her writing just keeps getting better and better with each release. She gives us such amazing characters that are easy for anyone to relate to. And she makes them so endearing that you can’t help but want them to overcome the past and move forward toward their happily ever after.
-The Lesbian Review
This book is exactly the way I wish romance authors would get back to writing romance. This is what I want to read. If you are a Noyes fan, get this book. If you are a romance fan, get this book. I didn’t even talk about the skiing… if you are a skiing fan, get this book.
-Lex Kent’s Reviews, goodreads
Turbulence
Wow… and when I say ‘wow’ I mean… WOW. After the author’s debut novel Ask, Tell got to my list of best books of 2017, I was wondering if that was just a fluke. Fortunately for us lesfic readers, now it’s confirmed: E. J. Noyes CAN write. Not only that, she can write different genres… Written in first person from Isabelle’s point of view, the reader gets into her headspace with all her insecurities, struggles, and character traits. Alongside Isabelle, we discover Audrey’s personality, her life story and, most importantly, her feelings. Throughout the book, Ms. Noyes pushes us down a roller coaster of emotions as we accompany Isabelle in her journey of self-discovery. In the process, we laugh, suffer, and enjoy the ride.
-Gaby, goodreads
The entire story just flowed from the first page! E. J. Noyes did a superb job of bringing out Isabelle’s and Audrey’s personalities, faults, erratic emotions, and the burning passion they shared. The chemistry between both women was so palpable! I felt as though the writer drizzled every word she wrote with love, combustible desire, and intense longing.
-The Lesbian Review
Ask, Tell
This is a book with everything I love about top-quality lesbian fiction: a fantastic romance between two wonderful women I can relate to, a location that really made me think again about something I thought I knew well, and brilliant pacing and scene-setting. I cannot recommend this novel highly enough.
-Rainbow Book Reviews
Noyes totally blew my mind from the first sentence. I went in timidly, and I came away awaiting her next release with bated breath. I really love how Noyes is able to get below the surface of the DADT legislation. She really captures the longing, the heartbreak, and especially the isolation that LGBTQ soldiers had to endure because the alternative was being deemed unfit to serve by their own government. I applaud Noyes for getting to the heart of the matter and giving a very important representation of what living and serving under this legislation truly meant for LGBTQ men and women of service.
-The Lesbian Review
E. J. Noyes was able to deliver on so many levels… This book is going to take you on a roller-coaster ride of ups and downs that you won’t expect but it’s so unbelievably worth it.
-Les Rêveur
Noyes clearly undertook a mammoth amount of research. I was totally engrossed. I’m not usually a reader of romance novels, but this one gripped me. The personal growth of the main character, the rich development of her fabulous best friend, Mitch, and the well-handled tension between Sabine and her love interest were all fantastic. This one definitely deserves five stars.
-CELEStial books Reviews
Other Bella Books by E. J. Noyes
Ask, Tell
Turbulence
Gold
Ask Me Again
Alone
If the Shoe Fits
Reaping the Benefits
Pas de deux
Go Around
If I Don’t Ask
Schuss
Integrity
About the Author
E. J. Noyes is an Australian transplanted to New Zealand, which may be the awesomest thing to happen to her. She lives in the South Island with her wife and the world’s best and neediest cat, and is enjoying the change of temperature from her hot, humid homeland.
An avid but mediocre gamer, E. J. lives for skiing (which she is also mediocre at), enjoys arguing with her hair, pretending to be good at things, and working the fact she’s a best-selling and award-winning author into casual conversation.
Copyright © 2023 by E. J. Noyes
Bella Books, Inc.
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Tallahassee, FL 32302
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without permission in writing from the publisher.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites or their content.
First Edition - 2023
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Heather Honeywell
ISBN: 978-1-64247-497-8
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
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Acknowledgments
Though writing can be a somewhat solitary experience, no author is an island, and I’m incredibly grateful for those who hold my hand, and give me little nudges or large shoves along the way. Every one of you (and that’s you too, readers) plays a part in helping me get a project to publication. It’s this mix of gentle and tough love, support, excitement, and encouragement that wraps around me and helps me open up my works-in-progress when all I want to do is play Call of Duty or engage in some other mindless, time-wasting exercise.
