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Ballybeg Bad Boys #1
Her Treasure Hunter Ex
When underwater photographer Katy Ryan embarks on a secret mission to salvage priceless jewels from a First World War shipwreck, she’s pissed as hell to be be pitted against Dex Fitzgerald, her super sexy treasure hunter ex. This novella was first published in the Romancing the Alpha adventure romance boxed set.She’d left him in the past. He’s about to blow up her future. Declan “Dex” Fitzgerald is a treasure hunter on a mission. With a loose idea of where to find the gems, and even looser morals, Dex wrangles a last-minute job on the exploration team. And realizes he’ll have to work alongside his uptight-but-sexy-as-hell ex. And they’re not the only ones in pursuit of the treasure. With sparks flying and oxygen tanks running low, can Dex and Katy retrieve the gems before the bad guys?
168 pages, ebook
First published August 28, 2015
About the author
Zara Keane
39 books978 followersZara Keane is a USA Today bestselling author of Irish cozy mysteries and romantic comedies.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 6, 2016
3 - "May the best diver win." Stars!
Her Treasure Hunter Ex is the first book that I have read by this author, and the first book in the Ballybeg Bad Boys series. The title was what grabbed me for this one, and the synopsis sold it to me.
The second chance love trope is one that I really enjoy, add in an unusual backstory, in that our couple are diving the wreck of the Lusitania off of the Irish coast for missing jewels, and that not everyone on the crew is on the up and up, and Declan and Katy's story kept me entertained for a few hours.
”You’re certain you want to start something with me again? It didn’t end well last time.”
The reason this only got a 3 star rating for me is that our couple have a past between them that isn’t pretty, and I felt that it was all resolved and forgotten about very quickly, and before you know it they were back to being a couple again.
It didn’t quite ring true with me, and the reconnection felt rushed and underdeveloped, if you are going to add into your story line, I think it needs to be addressed a little more in depth than it was done in Her Treasure Hunter Ex.
The suspense side of the book was well plotted and the ending held a few surprises, and I would certainly look to read more from Zara Keane in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Her Treasure Hunter Ex is the first book that I have read by this author, and the first book in the Ballybeg Bad Boys series. The title was what grabbed me for this one, and the synopsis sold it to me.
The second chance love trope is one that I really enjoy, add in an unusual backstory, in that our couple are diving the wreck of the Lusitania off of the Irish coast for missing jewels, and that not everyone on the crew is on the up and up, and Declan and Katy's story kept me entertained for a few hours.
”You’re certain you want to start something with me again? It didn’t end well last time.”
The reason this only got a 3 star rating for me is that our couple have a past between them that isn’t pretty, and I felt that it was all resolved and forgotten about very quickly, and before you know it they were back to being a couple again.
It didn’t quite ring true with me, and the reconnection felt rushed and underdeveloped, if you are going to add into your story line, I think it needs to be addressed a little more in depth than it was done in Her Treasure Hunter Ex.
The suspense side of the book was well plotted and the ending held a few surprises, and I would certainly look to read more from Zara Keane in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 27, 2016
3.5 star rating for this fun and sexy read :)
January 20, 2016
PROS:
The cover model is hawt.
The ending is funny.
It's short.
CONS:
SOME THINGS MAKE ME DOUBTFUL.
--Like, for professional divers, can you really guys talk underwater with some device through your head piece or something(I forgot the term)? My only experience in diving is when we watched some clown fish and other fishy creatures that is not edible and believe me, I find it hard to even move around much less talk...
The author didn't spend much words and time explaining some technical stuffs about diving and focused on sex (it's a contemporary romance and it's a novella to boot so I let it go) but I was a bit bothered by the fact that they chitchat under water and pressure.
IT'S TOO SHORT.
Want to read
September 28, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/28/2019)! 🎁
August 21, 2016
I ENJOYED THE FACTS MIX WITH FICTION
September 8, 2015
As always, Keane has created a story that will hold you captive from cover to cover. The fast paced, suspense-filled novel was one that I simply couldn`t put down. The mix of romance and under water archaeology was intense. I love how realistic it was all portrayed. The plot was full of twists and turns, keeping me on my toes and making the story impossible to put down.
Keane’s unique and varied cast truly enhanced the story. I loved the second chance that the main characters were given together. Their similar beliefs and different reactions made them stand out. Also, I found their jobs to be fantastic. The supporting cast really added to the story as well. Trying to figure out who everyone really was, above and beyond how they presented themselves. Was a great deal of fun. Sean’s appearance, tying this novel back to Keane’s Ballybeg series, really brought it all home to me.
This novel is definitely the perfect start to Keane’s new series. It is a fast paced, quick read that I devoured in a single sitting. And the last line of the story? Absolutely priceless.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Keane’s unique and varied cast truly enhanced the story. I loved the second chance that the main characters were given together. Their similar beliefs and different reactions made them stand out. Also, I found their jobs to be fantastic. The supporting cast really added to the story as well. Trying to figure out who everyone really was, above and beyond how they presented themselves. Was a great deal of fun. Sean’s appearance, tying this novel back to Keane’s Ballybeg series, really brought it all home to me.
This novel is definitely the perfect start to Keane’s new series. It is a fast paced, quick read that I devoured in a single sitting. And the last line of the story? Absolutely priceless.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2015
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the first book I read by Zara Keane. This is the first book in a new series, Ballybeg Bad Boys, and it follows the first series, Ballybeg. Keane is a wonderful author. Born in Ireland and living in Switzerland gives her writing a different feel from US authors and I really enjoy it. That she can weave a really good story is a bonus.
Katy is a US ex-pat who recently finished her PhD in archeology and is an expert underwater photographer. She is approached to dive and photograph the RMS Lusitania. The man offering her the job raises the spydi senses honed in the mean streets of Brooklyn, NY. She takes the job anyway because needs the money for her mothers medical care. She gets a lot more than she bargained for, including several attempts on her life.
Dex is the brother of Sean from Love and Shamrocks, Ballybeg #4. He is also a archeologist, except he has sold out to the treasure hunter side of the profession. He is on this dive for the jewels, not the history. He is also Katy's ex-fiancé. There is still a lot of feeling left and when they end up shearing a one bedroom apartment, well, hot things happen. On the dive, he has to make sure she stays safe. The treasure is not at all what they expected.
I really enjoyed the first book I read by Zara Keane. This is the first book in a new series, Ballybeg Bad Boys, and it follows the first series, Ballybeg. Keane is a wonderful author. Born in Ireland and living in Switzerland gives her writing a different feel from US authors and I really enjoy it. That she can weave a really good story is a bonus.
Katy is a US ex-pat who recently finished her PhD in archeology and is an expert underwater photographer. She is approached to dive and photograph the RMS Lusitania. The man offering her the job raises the spydi senses honed in the mean streets of Brooklyn, NY. She takes the job anyway because needs the money for her mothers medical care. She gets a lot more than she bargained for, including several attempts on her life.
Dex is the brother of Sean from Love and Shamrocks, Ballybeg #4. He is also a archeologist, except he has sold out to the treasure hunter side of the profession. He is on this dive for the jewels, not the history. He is also Katy's ex-fiancé. There is still a lot of feeling left and when they end up shearing a one bedroom apartment, well, hot things happen. On the dive, he has to make sure she stays safe. The treasure is not at all what they expected.
September 12, 2015
I am a fan of Zara Keane's Ballybeg series, so Her Treasure Hunters Ex made this a one-click for me, and I was glad I did. I always love my trips to Ballybeg courtesy of Zara Keane's series, and this one was suspenseful and sexy with a second chance storyline between the main characters. Kate and Dex broke up months ago, and it's very clear that they aren't done with each other. I loved Dex's earnest way of talking to Katy and her response to it. It's a lovely story, with a lot of significance as it takes place against the backdrop of a historical event, the sinking of the Lusitania. There is a lot to like about this story, and it's a perfect follow-up after Sean and Clio's story. If you haven't been reading this series, this story might just lure you into the charm of small coastal town of Ballybeg and its sometimes quirky and adorable inhabitants.
September 16, 2015
Katy needs money so when she is offered a large sum of money to take photos of a wreck and find some jewels she can do that but she is just about to meet up with her ex. Her & Dex did not leave their relationship as friends and now they have to work together.
They are both excellent at their jobs that was never the problem, life threw them a curve ball and things just went downhill from there.
They both still love each other so sharing a bed shouldn't be a problem but can they trust each other as there is a lot of money involved.
Accidents start to happen and Katy doesn't know who she can trust as Dex is also after the jewels. But can she tell him her fears before it is too late for both of them. A story that takes you on a journey from Ireland to the US and back again. The characters were both two stubborn people who just needed to give each other a break which I am glad to see happened. Nice easy flow and just the right amount of mind blowing sex. I enjoyed the story and I am happy to recommend to others. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
They are both excellent at their jobs that was never the problem, life threw them a curve ball and things just went downhill from there.
They both still love each other so sharing a bed shouldn't be a problem but can they trust each other as there is a lot of money involved.
Accidents start to happen and Katy doesn't know who she can trust as Dex is also after the jewels. But can she tell him her fears before it is too late for both of them. A story that takes you on a journey from Ireland to the US and back again. The characters were both two stubborn people who just needed to give each other a break which I am glad to see happened. Nice easy flow and just the right amount of mind blowing sex. I enjoyed the story and I am happy to recommend to others. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
September 11, 2015
I love Zara's writing style...heat, humour and mystery always a great combination to make for a great story. And I love a good treasure hunting tale, especially on the water! Dex and Katy's story is a little different than Zara's other Ballybeg series, but still a great read. Dex is a morally challenged treasure hunter after some priceless gems supposedly hidden in the wreck of the Lusitania. Katy's pretty po'd when she discovers she's signed on to the same crew as her charming but scheming ex and even more irate when she finds out their actually searching for the jewels under the guise of unearthing historical artifacts for posterity sake. But she needs this gig and the cash it will bring to assist with her ailing mother so she's willing to bend her own morals to get to the treasure first. There's sizzle, there's laughs, there's also murder and mayhem. Can't get much better than that! And thanks Zara for the ARC for an honest review!
September 12, 2015
This was another enjoyable story from Zara.
There was plenty of action and intrigue.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
As you read the series the characters and their adventures seem so real !
There was plenty of action and intrigue.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
As you read the series the characters and their adventures seem so real !
October 1, 2015
Katy is such a cool heroine, she has a PhD and works as an underwater photographer. The story is a great mixture of adventure, suspense and romance. I really enjoyed it!
For more romance reviews, check out my website:https://katherinasbooks.wordpress.com
For more romance reviews, check out my website:https://katherinasbooks.wordpress.com
January 18, 2023
It was actually a pretty decent read. I skipped some corny mushy parts, but I believe I still enjoyed this story overall. I also like the added mystery part ;)
September 30, 2015
Originally posted at SmexyBook-http://smexybooks.com/2015/09/review-...
Ballybeg Bad Boys is a series of novellas that spin-off Zara Keane’s original and popular Ballybeg series. This installment was originally released as part of the Romancing the Alpha: An Action-Adventure Romance Boxed Set Anthology.
Her Treasure Hunter Ex takes us back to Ballybeg and introduces us to Katy Ryan and Declan Fitzgerald. Fans of Keane’s will notice that Declan (Dex) is the brother of Seán Mackey, the hero in Love and Shamrocks. Katy and Dex suffered a tragedy that was made worse by depression and a lack of communication. Their relationship ultimately failed and they went their separate ways. When they discover they will not only be teammates but also bunk mates, Dex and Katy set aside their animosity and focus on the job, only to discover the past has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.
This sexy romantic suspense blends a steamy second chance romance with an interesting mystery revolving around a sunken ship, hidden treasure, and the race to find it. A steady pace with personable characters makes this an easy fun read. I have always been interested in the sinking of the Lusitania and the conspiracies that have surrounded it. Keane’s use of fact and fiction in the mystery only serves to heighten your interest as you root for this estranged couple to reconnect. My only qualm is I felt the couple reconnected too easily for the multiple issues that drove them apart. They didn’t really deal with what happened. They just apologized to one another and decided to let go and move forward from there.
RATING: C+
Ballybeg Bad Boys is a series of novellas that spin-off Zara Keane’s original and popular Ballybeg series. This installment was originally released as part of the Romancing the Alpha: An Action-Adventure Romance Boxed Set Anthology.
Her Treasure Hunter Ex takes us back to Ballybeg and introduces us to Katy Ryan and Declan Fitzgerald. Fans of Keane’s will notice that Declan (Dex) is the brother of Seán Mackey, the hero in Love and Shamrocks. Katy and Dex suffered a tragedy that was made worse by depression and a lack of communication. Their relationship ultimately failed and they went their separate ways. When they discover they will not only be teammates but also bunk mates, Dex and Katy set aside their animosity and focus on the job, only to discover the past has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.
This sexy romantic suspense blends a steamy second chance romance with an interesting mystery revolving around a sunken ship, hidden treasure, and the race to find it. A steady pace with personable characters makes this an easy fun read. I have always been interested in the sinking of the Lusitania and the conspiracies that have surrounded it. Keane’s use of fact and fiction in the mystery only serves to heighten your interest as you root for this estranged couple to reconnect. My only qualm is I felt the couple reconnected too easily for the multiple issues that drove them apart. They didn’t really deal with what happened. They just apologized to one another and decided to let go and move forward from there.
RATING: C+
March 2, 2016
As usual our favorite author knocked it out of the park! I received an ARC, but would have left this review regardless. Treasure Hunters, betrayal, love and more abound in this book. It's a thrill a minute. You root for the estranged couple through the whole book. If you want to read a great romantic suspense book, I HIGHLY recommend this one!! An underwater photographer is given the opportunity of a lifetime! She is asked to photograph the sunken ship that her great grandparents had been said to escape from . This book is a spin-off of the popular Ballybeg series. The heroines ex fiance and once again possible love interest is the brother of Sean the cop. Dex is also diving this wreck, but to nab priceless artifacts for his investor. Neither is aware the other was hired. Once aboard the dive sparks begin to fly....as does mystery. What's the real reason for the dive. Who is messing with stuff. Danger and love are in the air. Read on to see what happens. This is the first in a spin off series from Ballybeg. Look forward to book 2 about a rock star .....enjoy the read
August 27, 2016
This was a quick and fun second chance story that had some underwater adventure thrown in as well. The heroine was a diver and photographer for the US Navy. When she left she got involved with another diver, and they had a falling out. Now they find themselves working on the same dive, both secretly searching for shipwreck treasure that would be kept from the rest of the find for lots and lots of money. Unfortunately they have different sponsors. However, they do talk and do figure some things out, some due to the calming influence of time. And that happens just in time for both to become snared in a very dangerous situation with some other treasure hunters.
I haven't read other books by this author before, so didn't realize that this is a spin-off of an earlier series until I got into the story. It became clear that there was likely some history with the hero's brother, and there is from the previous series. Their relationship was fun to read, and I liked their personalities. The brother's fiance is hardly a character in this book, but I'm curious now to read their story.
I haven't read other books by this author before, so didn't realize that this is a spin-off of an earlier series until I got into the story. It became clear that there was likely some history with the hero's brother, and there is from the previous series. Their relationship was fun to read, and I liked their personalities. The brother's fiance is hardly a character in this book, but I'm curious now to read their story.
July 9, 2015
I read this in the romancing the alpha box set. what a promising start to the new ballybeg series! and what a hot cover.
I've had the privilege of reading Her Treasure Hunter Ex and it makes the box set worth every single penny.
Her treasure hunter ex brings us bag to Balleybag with Dex Fitzgerald and his ex fiance Katy. Imagine the surprise when the two realize they are stuck bunking together. Sparks fly as the two are searching the wreckage of the Lusitania.
I LOVE these Irish based stories, I love the language, the dynamics and even the insults. I enjoyed the danger aspect in this story while the crew looked for the hidden Jewels. 5 stars! Can't wait to read other books in this series!
I've had the privilege of reading Her Treasure Hunter Ex and it makes the box set worth every single penny.
Her treasure hunter ex brings us bag to Balleybag with Dex Fitzgerald and his ex fiance Katy. Imagine the surprise when the two realize they are stuck bunking together. Sparks fly as the two are searching the wreckage of the Lusitania.
I LOVE these Irish based stories, I love the language, the dynamics and even the insults. I enjoyed the danger aspect in this story while the crew looked for the hidden Jewels. 5 stars! Can't wait to read other books in this series!
September 20, 2015
I fell in love with Ballybeg (and Zara) as soon as I picked up Love and Shenanigans. I knew this new series (Badboys of Ballybeg) was going to be less focused on Ballybeg, but I still jumped at the chance to read it. I am so glad that I did!
Katy and Dex were both extremely likeable characters with sizzling chemistry. I love that Katy has a little bad girl in her, too!
Her Treasure Hunter Ex is filled with suspense and intrigue while following Katy and Dex's reconciliation. If I had to give a criticism, I would have liked to learn more about the other diver's. I feel it would have made the mystery a bigger part of the story. Oh, my other complaint- it ended too quickly!
I'm so excited to read the rest of the series!
I received a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Katy and Dex were both extremely likeable characters with sizzling chemistry. I love that Katy has a little bad girl in her, too!
Her Treasure Hunter Ex is filled with suspense and intrigue while following Katy and Dex's reconciliation. If I had to give a criticism, I would have liked to learn more about the other diver's. I feel it would have made the mystery a bigger part of the story. Oh, my other complaint- it ended too quickly!
I'm so excited to read the rest of the series!
I received a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2015
Her Treasure Hunter Ex is a story about two people who live diving and hunting for treasure that just couldn't make their relationship work. A year apart now and Katy has her PHD, a life of her own, and a chance for a job thats she's always wanted.
Dex lost the love of his life, off on the next big adventure, he still can't get over Katy. When called to do a job looking for some treasure, he can't resist. When he starts to meet the crew, he can't believe his luck that he'll be back working with Katy.
The sparks are still there and it's still has hot as always. When danger arises, and old flames are part of the equation will they survive and get happily ever after?
Dex lost the love of his life, off on the next big adventure, he still can't get over Katy. When called to do a job looking for some treasure, he can't resist. When he starts to meet the crew, he can't believe his luck that he'll be back working with Katy.
The sparks are still there and it's still has hot as always. When danger arises, and old flames are part of the equation will they survive and get happily ever after?
September 11, 2015
I was gifted a copy of this book for review.
Katy is a very determined complicated woman who has dealt with a traumatic loss by pushing her fiancee away. It didn't help the situation when she suspected he was unfaithful.
Dex dealt with things basically by running away he didn't fight like he should have. When these two are thrust together again they must rely on each other to make it out alive.
While the characters are intriguing and the storyline is promising I felt the story was a bit rushed in places.
Katy is a very determined complicated woman who has dealt with a traumatic loss by pushing her fiancee away. It didn't help the situation when she suspected he was unfaithful.
Dex dealt with things basically by running away he didn't fight like he should have. When these two are thrust together again they must rely on each other to make it out alive.
While the characters are intriguing and the storyline is promising I felt the story was a bit rushed in places.
January 26, 2017
4.5 adventurous stars
A good adventure book. Although I figured out who was who it was still an interesting storyline, gave me a few lite laughs and there were a couple of sad times but no heavy emotion. A great summer read for sure.
Dex is a good guy, a great match for Katy. I'm glad they get a second chance but I would have liked to know more about what happened with treasure box. Did she get to help her Mom?
A good adventure book. Although I figured out who was who it was still an interesting storyline, gave me a few lite laughs and there were a couple of sad times but no heavy emotion. A great summer read for sure.
Dex is a good guy, a great match for Katy. I'm glad they get a second chance but I would have liked to know more about what happened with treasure box. Did she get to help her Mom?
Shelved as 'freebie-to-read'
April 1, 2016**part of the Romancing the Alpha: An Action-Adventure Romance Boxed Set anthology.
July 7, 2015
Loved this book! I guess you can say it is just so cool of the story's idea. Treasure hunting, ex-sweethearts, the list can go on and on. Sexy, quick read that grabs you from the beginning. You don't need to have read previous stories to enjoy this one.
September 10, 2015
Katy and Dex both join an underwater salvage operation but have no idea the other will be there. When they meet again and have to share a flat things heat up. However can either one trust each other enough to let them know why they are on the operation.
October 2, 2015
Fun read with slight intrigue.
August 2, 2016
Ehh, it's about as cheesy as the title, but is an entertaining read and some nice history on the Lusitania. The characters I really didn't get, they weren't very believable.
August 29, 2016
First I have read by Zara Keane.
September 28, 2020
A short book with an interesting suspense element surrounding a shipwreck.
Zara Keane is one of my favourite authors and I love her funny, witty way of writing. This is set in the same fictional world of Ballybeg.
The archeology and history inserted in the story is interesting, as well the information on diving.
I'm not fond of second chance romance, but I didn't mind this one too much. For a short book, though, there were too many sex scenes.
Zara Keane is one of my favourite authors and I love her funny, witty way of writing. This is set in the same fictional world of Ballybeg.
The archeology and history inserted in the story is interesting, as well the information on diving.
I'm not fond of second chance romance, but I didn't mind this one too much. For a short book, though, there were too many sex scenes.
January 24, 2019
Not a bad little romance with a shallow back story and a weakly developed second string of characters. The main characters are just okay, but we get no feel for the other players and yet, they're an integral part of the story. The editing is clean and Keane knows how to string words together, but they need more depth.
June 22, 2023
Katy Ryan is an archeological photographer who gets hired to shoot film on a dive to the HMS Lusitania. When she arrives at the site, she's surprised to find her ex-fiancé, Dex Fitzgerald. Dex is an archeologist and treasure hunter, and he regrets losing Katy. This was a very short and sexy adventure tale with an interesting twist at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews