“OMG! I am in Paris and I started to read book 1 last night before bed. Went to sleep but woke up at 3am to read more. I’m hooked. Fabulous writing.”
Thrillers With Humour And Heart
Welcome!
I got tired of reading stories about middle-aged female characters who sweetly reminisce about their younger years while the twenty-somethings have all the fun. I’m not going to stop having adventures just because I’m over… okay, well over forty. Okay, fine; over… never mind. I’m old(er), not dead.
That’s why I created a kickass, foul-mouthed middle-aged bookkeeper who gets sucked into a spy’s life. If you like fast-paced action with some laughs along the way, my books are for you. I hope you enjoy them!
Diane Henders
P.S. Want to be notified when I release a new book? Click here to join my New Book Notification list.
.
Book 18 of the NEVER SAY SPY series is under way!
.
The NEVER SAY SPY Series
Book 1: Never Say Spy
Complete e-book available for free!
~ 60 months in the Kindle Top 100 Free ~
Despite her fondness for weapons and ripe language, middle-aged Aydan Kelly’s résumé reads ‘bookkeeper’, not ‘badass’. She’s leaving the city to fulfill her dream of country living when she gets carjacked by a man who shouldn’t exist.
When RCMP officer John Kane kills her captor, Aydan hopes her troubles are over; but Kane’s investigation implicates her in a techno-espionage plot. Criminal charges become the least of her worries when she finds herself in the crosshairs of the same dangerous group Kane suspects her of aiding.
Armed with only her analytical mind, a warped sense of humour, and a penchant for profanity, Aydan faces off against international spies and an RCMP officer who’s not what he seems.
Pity her enemies. Because nobody’s tougher than a middle-aged woman who wants her dream back.
“Fierce and funny – this spy thriller keeps you clinging to the edge of your seat even while you laugh.”
Book 2: The Spy Is Cast
When a clandestine government agency recruits middle-aged bookkeeper Aydan Kelly, she overcomes her fear and agrees to go undercover at a lavish gala affair. But the glamour of the mission fades fast when she finds herself astride a motorcycle, assigned to an all-male surveillance team.
Aydan discovers spies are using classified technology to torture information from their captives. Worse, they know she’s breached their security. Now she has to prevent them from revealing her true identity, while avoiding capture by the vicious criminals who won’t hesitate to torture her, too.
“I feel like I’ve just finished a wild ride on an overpowered motorcycle – I’m exhausted, shaky and totally exhilarated.”
Book 3: Reach For The Spy
Middle-aged bookkeeper Aydan Kelly never wanted to moonlight as a spy, but she doesn’t have a choice. Working with computer networks in a secured building sounds safe, but it turns out the job’s a killer – literally.
When Aydan’s trusted co-worker is shot while committing an apparently treasonous act, Aydan embarks on a secret mission to clear his name. But her investigation casts suspicion on the director of operations himself. If he’s a double agent, Aydan’s in more danger than she ever imagined… and national security hangs in the balance.
“More action, turns and twists, great character development, and one hell of a fun read.”
Book 4: Tell Me No Spies
Aydan Kelly has reluctantly accepted her unwanted role as a part-time spy. It’s painful and dangerous, but she’s willing to make the sacrifice for the good of her country. Too bad her country doesn’t have the same honourable intentions.
When Aydan discovers the government murdered her husband, the betrayal drives her on a quest to uncover the truth. Living as a fugitive, alienated from the people she once trusted, she has to evade both government agents and the violent criminals who will sell her to the highest bidder.
“Literary crack – I’m so hooked on this series!”
Book 5: How Spy I Am
In her work with a clandestine government agency, Aydan Kelly stumbles across a shadowy consortium of scientists whose members are selling classified information for personal profit.
Aydan wants to report them, but there’s a small complication: her supposedly dead husband… isn’t. He wants to rendezvous with her, but he could be working with the consortium. If she rats on the scientists, her husband will die. But if she doesn’t, the consortium will kill her…
“The main character is one of my top three favorites of any book I have ever read.”
Soon to be released as an audiobook
Book 6: A Spy For A Spy
Aydan Kelly’s part-time job with a clandestine government organization just got a lot more complicated. Forced to lie to save her lover’s career, she tells the director she’s an experienced secret agent. He believes her… and assigns her to a dangerous mission.
When Aydan realizes innocent lives are at stake, she tries to confess her deception, but it’s already too late. Cut off from the Department and used as a pawn in the vengeful schemes of an obsessed spy, she must stop him before he destroys the people she loves.
“The way she makes you feel like you’re wearing the skin of her characters is truly amazing. This gave me goose bumps!”
Book 7: Spy, Spy Away
Middle-aged bookkeeper Aydan Kelly knew pretending to be an experienced secret agent was a bad idea, but it was the only way to protect her lover. Now her lies have caught up to her in the worst possible way: everyone believes them.
Armed with nothing but a sleazy porn-star cover identity, Aydan must infiltrate a criminal organization to retrieve a secret weapon prototype. With her lover’s life at stake as well as her own, she can’t afford to fail. But she has no idea how to succeed…
“Nail biting, tear shedding, heart wrenching, humor in all the right places. I mean, WHEW!”
Book 8: Spy Now, Pay Later
Railroaded into acting as a secret agent, Aydan Kelly only wants to return to her peaceful former existence. But when trusted co-workers go missing along with a deadly weapon prototype, she’s forced to take over the investigation to protect them from an agent with a personal vendetta.
And when a violent criminal organization abducts her lover, Aydan discovers exactly how far she’s willing to push the limits of her new role. The bad guys are about to learn an important lesson: Don’t piss off a middle-aged bookkeeper.
“…awesome… I can not sleep until I finish the book. Then I want to read it again.”
Book 9: Spy High
After four uneventful months spent guarding her boss’s eccentric hippy parents on an isolated raincoast commune, bookkeeper-turned-secret-agent Aydan Kelly is beginning to hope mildewed undies will be the only hazard she’ll face.
But some of the blissed-out flower children are not what they seem. Aydan discovers a plot to kill her lovable charges, and in her fight to protect them she unearths the commune’s deepest secret. Suddenly she’s facing dozens of enemies who threaten the lives of all the innocent commune members as well as her own.
She’ll only survive with a little help from her friends…
“Each character is so well defined that you can’t help but know them as if they were old friends, or enemies…”
Book 10: Spy Away Home
Bookkeeper-turned-secret-agent Aydan Kelly has barely begun to relax after her last mission when a shotgun-wielding man kicks in the front door of her country home. She doesn’t recognize the would-be assassin, so who hired him and why?
As evidence mounts against her abrasive co-worker, Aydan begins a deadly game of cat and mouse with herself as bait. If her suspicions are correct, the Department’s security has been breached and no one is safe.
With the lives of her dearest friends at risk as well as her own, Aydan must stop her unknown enemy before the next assassin succeeds.
“…so superbly detailed so that at the end… you feel almost out of breath… An amazing story.”
Book 11: The Spies That Bind
Secret agent Aydan Kelly is hoping to resume her peaceful life as a bookkeeper, until her director issues an ultimatum: Go undercover as an arms dealer or go to jail for life. But when Aydan realizes her co-worker’s son has been taken by a serial killer, she defies orders in an attempt to save the child.
Neglecting her undercover assignment may cost more than just her freedom. When the gunrunner she’s been baiting threatens her loved ones, Aydan must choose between protecting them herself or entrusting their safety to geriatric amateur vigilantes while she closes in on the killer.
How much will she risk for a child who may already be dead?
“…strong characters and quirky humour!! I tried to savor this one, but couldn’t leave it alone.”
Book 12: Kiss And Say Good Spy
Reluctant secret agent Aydan Kelly is posing as an arms dealer when her gangland buyer is implicated in a deadly plot to attack Remembrance Day services.
Partnered with an agent she can’t trust, Aydan races against time to stop the terrorists; but her partner’s volatile temper might blow the whole op… if it doesn’t kill her first. And when she discovers her lover is embroiled in the case, Aydan must decide: Will she sacrifice him to save hundreds of innocent lives?
“OMG! Talk about being EXPLOSIVE! I love Ayden!”
Book 13: Once Burned, Twice Spy
Escorting Canada’s top weapons developers to an international summit should be just another stressful day in the life of secret agent Aydan Kelly. But Aydan’s routine mission becomes a nightmare when she’s accused of an attack on the delegates and the theft of a classified weapon.
As evidence mounts against her, Aydan’s own investigation suggests she might have unconsciously committed the crime. Burned by her own Department and hunted by MI6, CIA, and FBI, Aydan must decide: When her own mind might betray her, who can she trust?
“…another breathtaking adventure that defies you to quit turning the pages.”
Book 14: Friends In Spy Places
Secret agent Aydan Kelly’s supposedly-dead mother Nora has resurfaced after thirty years, and the chain of command suspects her of treason. With only two weeks before Nora leaves the country under diplomatic immunity, Aydan struggles to piece together her mother’s questionable past.
Two days into Aydan’s investigation Nora announces she’s leaving early, and Aydan’s director gives her an ultimatum: Solve the case before Nora escapes, or face imprisonment for dereliction of duty. Meanwhile, an unknown enemy is stalking Aydan’s friends and the threats are escalating.
When time runs out and prison walls loom, claustrophobic Aydan must make an unthinkable choice: Sacrifice her friends, or lose her freedom forever.
“…nail-biting suspense, cliff-hanging peril…with an ample dollop of dry wit and rib-tickling humor…”
Book 15: A Spy For Help
Off-duty secret agent Aydan Kelly knows she shouldn’t interfere when her lover finally locates his long-lost sister, but she’s afraid Arnie’s too upset to stay on the right side of the law.
Arnie’s sister has been outed in a social media firestorm, and threats against her escalate to a violent attack. Aydan and Arnie rush to her rescue, only to discover she’s being targeted by a powerful crime lord from her unsavory past. As danger mounts, Aydan realizes Arnie will do anything to save his sister… including murder.
Caught between love and legality, Aydan faces an unthinkable choice: Risk her career and freedom by turning a blind eye to Arnie’s deadly plan, or save the crime lord and condemn Arnie to prison and his sister to death.
“…faster action than a James Bond book/movie and as much heart as Debbie Macomber!”
Book 16: Spy In The Sky
When secret agent Aydan Kelly investigates a disgraced CIA agent, he insists he was only following orders. Four days later he mysteriously dies while in custody.
Aydan suspects that a CIA director killed him to hide a profitable connection with an international arms dealer. As she digs deeper, Aydan knows she’s on the right track when assassins start trying to kill her. But when the arms dealer deposits twenty million dollars in her bank account, suspicion veers toward Aydan.
With only three days left before she’s jailed for treason, Aydan fights to stay alive, capture the elusive arms dealer, and clear her name.
“…the twists and the speed of this episode made me say “OMG” several times out loud…”
Book 17: Live And Let Spy
Secret agent Aydan Kelly is investigating an international arms cabal when drive-by shootings target her lovers, her Director, and Aydan herself. Her trusted informant delivers the chilling news: All their covers are blown.
The hitmen keep coming… and they seem to know exactly where Aydan and her team will be. Someone in the Department is betraying them, and Aydan is forced into a deadly race against time. Can she catch the traitor and stop the cabal before they slaughter the people she loves?
“… outstanding and complex … the story wouldn’t give me a chance to sleep … is un-put-downable a real word?!”
Book 18 is coming!
May 3/23: Wrote two chapters. Deleted two chapters. Rewrote two chapters… hmmm. Can anybody spot an unproductive pattern here? But at least I’ve figured out what went wrong with the story and I’ve fixed the problem, so it should be clear(er) sailing now!
Want to be notified whenever I release a new book? Please click on the button below to join the list. I’ll email you when a new book is available for pre-order, and again when the book goes live on all retail sites.
I promise to keep your email confidential, and I’ll never spam you. You can unsubscribe anytime. If you signed up for a previous book, you’re still on the list unless you’ve removed yourself or your email address has changed.
Please contact me if you’re having problems – thanks!
.
The INAPPROPRIATE Series
The “Inappropriate” series is a compilation of selected posts from my blog. Each book contains approximately a year’s worth of posts. None of the books contain anything that’s not available for free on my blog; but if you prefer to have a book in your hand instead of scrolling through text on your computer, these books are for you! 🙂
Want to be notified whenever I release a new book? Please click on the button below to join the list. I’ll email you when a new book is available for pre-order, and again when the book goes live on all retail sites.
I promise to keep your email confidential, and I’ll never spam you. You can unsubscribe anytime. If you signed up for a previous book, you’re still on the list unless you’ve removed yourself or your email address has changed.
Please contact me if you’re having problems – thanks!
Author Diane Henders 
Book 13!!! I am going to have to read it again. I am so much more in love with your characters. Oh, I cried, and I laughed. Thank you so so much. Please don’t ever stop writing about these engaging figments of your imagination.
LikeLike
Thanks, Angela – I’m thrilled that you loved Book 13! I enjoy writing about Aydan and the gang so much, it makes my day to know you love them, too. 🙂
LikeLike
Just finished book 13-loved it. Don’t want to give any spoilers so just say the character development was great. It is good to see more about the extra characters like Stemp and Reggie while staying true to the way they were introduced. Definitely a hard to put down read. Thanks for the entertainment!
LikeLike
You’re welcome, Louisa – it’s my pleasure. I’m so glad you loved Book 13! I loved writing it – it’s great fun to develop complex characters like Reggie and Stemp. Thank you so much for coming by to let me know you enjoyed the book – that makes my day! 🙂
LikeLike
Pingback: Our Excellent Adventure | Diane Henders
Loved book 13! Absolutely worth the wait.
LikeLike
Hi,
Hope all is well and that you are enjoying a rest now that book 13 is live.
Just wanted to let you know that i have reviewed your book in Amazon uk with 5 stars! (E Norge)
Eva Auletta
Laugh more, worry less
LikeLike
Hi Eva! Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to drop by and comment. I’m so glad you loved Book 13, and I really appreciate your review, too – thank you! I like your “Laugh more, worry less” – that’s a great way to live. 🙂
LikeLike
Hi,
Can’t tell you how happy I was reading your email about finishing book 13. So excited that I can soon read it.
You are a star.
Eva
LikeLike
Thanks, Eva! I’m excited to be wrapping up the last of the edits and starting on the cover art this week. I hope to have a release date to announce soon! 🙂
LikeLike
Pardon the language, but I. Fucking. L.O.V.E. These Books! I used to scoff every time someone described a book as “unputdownable” and chalked it up to hyperbole, but this series made me a believer. I hadn’t checked in for a while and when I saw that book 12 had come out I couldn’t click the “purchase” button fast enough; it was as if I was seeing my best friends again after years apart. I sat down and finished it in an afternoon. Am counting the days until Book 13!
LikeLike
Hi Miriam! I’m counting the days until Book 13, too – I’m SOOOOO close! I’m hoping to finish the draft next week, but time will tell…
No need to pardon your language – I’m absolutely thrilled that you love the series that much! 😀 I have so much fun writing all the characters that they feel like old friends to me, too.
Thank you for dropping by with such wonderful encouragement while I’m grinding through the final push of Book 13 – your support means a lot to me!
LikeLike
God Damnit! I did it AGAIN. I swore to myself that I’d take my three-day weekend (Wednesday-Friday) and slowly savor this book. It’s now 8pm, and I’ve finished it within five hours of downloading. I used to write for a living too; albeit criminal appeals and not fiction ( So many inappropriate comments, so little time!), so I know how arduous the process can be. That being said, I hope your hubby has you chained to your desk and is bringing you your meals on a tray because I NEEEEEED the next book! I’m counting the days.
-Miriam
LikeLike
LOL! I’ll tell Hubby to get going with my meal service. (Sounds like a win-win to me!)
And wow, five hours?!? You blasted through that book! I feel your pain – I’m a voracious reader, too, and authors don’t write FAST ENOUGH, dammit! I’ll get right on Book 14, but I likely won’t have it finished by tomorrow… 😉
Thank you so much for your encouragement and enthusiasm – I appreciate it!
LikeLike
Love love love the spy series.
LikeLike
Thanks, Linda! That makes my day! 😀
LikeLike
Read the series straight thru. Just finished 12. As much as I like Hellmound, I’d love to c Kane and Ayden together. Perhaps she figures out she can b a loving, trusting partner, even tho Daniel is in the mix, and still not lose herself. Like the twists.
LikeLike
Thanks, Lucy – it’s great to hear you devoured the series! Kane and Aydan’s story isn’t quite over yet – even I don’t quite know how it’ll turn out. Stay tuned… 🙂
Thanks for visiting and commenting!
LikeLike
I would love to see her keep her relationship with Hellhound. It is unconventional but just right for them. Would be a shame for her to “convert” to a traditional relationship with Kane.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for weighing in, PJ! I’m still waiting to see how it’ll all turn out – every time I think I’m getting close to nailing it down, the characters reveal some other little detail about themselves that changes the dynamic again. 🙂
LikeLike
Love all your books! Can’t wait to hear more of Hellmond!
LikeLike
Thanks, Barbara! More Hellhound coming up, as soon as I can. 😉
LikeLike
I just discovered the Spy series this summer and finished book 12 this morning. I couldn’t put them down! Loved the fun, tension and excitement. But especially loved the relationships of the characters. I am hoping against hope that Ayden and John work through their difficulties and find real trust and love. To me, they seem destined to make it! Thank you for 12 great reads!
LikeLike
Thank you for your kind words; and you’re welcome, Paula – it’s my pleasure! (Literally – I love writing these characters!) It’s so great to hear that you’ve been enjoying the series.
I won’t offer any spoilers about Aydan and John… mainly because I don’t know myself. I’ve written lots of different endings for the series in my head, and each time I thought, “This is The One!” And then those strong-minded characters took over and told me I was wrong again. I guess we’ll all have to wait and see how it works out! 😉
LikeLike
Just finished Kiss and Say Good Spy! … HOLY SMOKES … I couldn’t put the book down! Super awesome book….
LikeLike
Hooray! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, especially after such a long wait for its release. Thanks for letting me know – now I’m smiling! 🙂
LikeLike
I just finished book 12. as Nichelle would say : OMG Girl! It was great, couldn’t put it down. Thank you from one middle age redhead to another. I can’t wait for the next installment. Keep up the great work!
LikeLike
Thanks, Jody – that’s awesome! I’m so thrilled that you enjoyed Kiss And Say Good Spy! I appreciate you dropping by to let me know – you made my day. 🙂
LikeLike
just downloaded book 12. I’m posting this before i start reading
really looking forward to reading the book
to my surprise book 13 is coming soon, you sly thing starting it already hehehe 😉
well today is Bond and Henders (Aydan) I am working my way though all the Bond films up to film 5 so far hehe only got them yesterday
LikeLike
Ah, James Bond – my second crush. (After the Lone Ranger.) 😉 I hope you enjoy Book 12 when you get to it!
LikeLike
Got my pre-order done. Re-reading the series now. If it anything like the rest it will be an entertaining read. Still hoping it is Hellhound she ends up with. Kind of hoping Stemp brings his family home
LikeLike
Thanks for pre-ordering, Louisa – I hope you’ll enjoy Kiss And Say Good Spy! I’m flattered that you’re re-reading the series, too – it’s so nice to hear that you consider it worth another read. 🙂
I won’t offer any spoilers about Hellhound or Stemp, but take heart – their stories aren’t completely told yet!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m still waiting in anticipation of your next masterpiece, can’t wait!
LikeLike
Thanks, Geoffrey! I hope you’ll enjoy it! 🙂
LikeLike
Finished Kiss and Say Good Spy! Without giving any spoilers have to say it is one you just want to keep reading. Had a some laughs and some spots that keep you guessing. Definitely a worthwhile read. And now it makes me anxious for book 13 lol.Great work Diane!
LikeLike
Thanks, Louisa – I’m so glad you enjoyed it! That makes my day! 😀
LikeLike
I haven’t been able to find this new one. Where is it being sold out of. Couldn’t find it on Amazon or Barnes and noble sites.
Sent from my Sprint Samsung Galaxy S7.
LikeLike
Sorry to jump in here Diane. I got mine on kobo. But I also just checked on Amazon UK and it’s definitely available
LikeLike
Thanks, I’ll try the UK side, after I check again here. Wasn’t available on Thursday night, but haven’t checked since.
LikeLike
Hi Mary I got it on Kobo as well. There are links for purchasing on this site so you should be able to hopefully get a copy
LikeLike
I found it on Barnes and Noble online…
LikeLike
Thanks for jumping in, everybody! 🙂 I was travelling today so didn’t get a chance to check in until now, and I’m late sending out my mailout announcement, too – I’m sorry about that. Mary, here are a list of retailer links – I hope one of them works for you: https://blog.dianehenders.com/books/where-to-buy/#12
If you’re still having problems, please let me know. Thanks!
LikeLike
Thanks, found it. I’m not going to buy until Tues as I have to work, and if I buy now, I’ll be up reading until it’s finished. (I know me and your books.😊) Thanks again for such a great series of books.
LikeLike
Thanks, Mary! I hope you enjoy it when you get to it. 🙂
LikeLike
Pingback: Good Spies Finish First! | Diane Henders
I am another who just found these books and read all 11 in less than 3 weeks. I’m totally hooked. I love these characters! Your writing is fun, fast and easy; I laugh out loud and can’t put them down!
And I agree with previous posts, write faster!! I’m pretty ensconced in Team Hellhound (oh, my), but John needs to stick around too 😉 John and Alicia should definitely not get together. She can have her own story somewhere else.
You have an amazing talent and I hope you keep writing for us for a long long time!
LikeLike
Thank you for your kind words, Kim – It’s so great to hear you’re enjoying the series, and I’m glad you’re getting some laughs! I’ll do my best to write faster. (I’m hoping it’ll be easier to keep that promise now that I’m finished moving.) 😉
It’s always fun to hear from Team Hellhound – I have so much fun writing his character! John and Alicia, well… you’ll just have to wait and see…
Thanks for taking the time to drop by and comment!
LikeLike
DO NOT put John and Alicia together!!!! The thought makes me cringe…She on purpose kept Daniel a secret from John and that is just wrong on so many levels.
Finished “Kiss and Say Good Spy” yesterday and I put a review on the Barnes and Noble site. I’m so glad you did what you did to you know whom. Don’t want give it away. Now I have to wonder when we will find out more about Hellhound….I’m looking forward to that. But I do have a question. Will Aydan ever lose her doubt about herself? Or at least have it diminished some? Just wondering
Cait
LikeLike
Thank you for posting a review, Cait – I appreciate that! And that’s an excellent question about Aydan. I don’t think it’s realistic to expect her to completely overcome her self-doubt – everybody has at least some level of self-doubt; and she’s also struggling in a role where she’s expected to have the same skills that took other agents years of training and practice to acquire. As she successfully deals with a wider range of situations, her confidence will definitely increase… but sometimes confidence can jump up and bite you in the ass, too. Time will tell… 😉
LikeLike
How about throwing Ian Rand into the mix? Give Ayden four (holy cow) hunks liking that little red thong!!
LikeLike
That would be great fun! I think Aydan will be seeing more of Ian Rand, but I’m not sure if it’ll be in the literal sense. Time will tell… 😉
LikeLike
Okay here’s my 2 cents worth. Well, maybe it’s more like .002 but thats a bunny trail. I’ve always like Stemp. There was something about him that told me he’ll be A.O.K. He’s a closet nice guy because in his job he’s got to be the “dickhead.” Now Reggie is funny and I can see him and Ayden being good friends but not like Arnie and John.
Now for a professional question. What publisher did you use for your non-fiction? I have a book almost ready to submit and need a recommendation.
Thanks
Cait
LikeLike
I agree with Cait-Stemp would make a great friend for her. Still voting for Hellhound. Out of the romantic interest he accepts her for herself the most
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations on your book, Cait – that’s a huge accomplishment! I’m sorry I can’t recommend a publisher because I self-publish all of my books. But if you decide to go the self-publishing route, Janice Hardy has some great advice on her Fiction University site: http://blog.janicehardy.com/. Some of the information is fiction-specific, but a lot of the self-publishing information is the same regardless of your book content. Good luck! 🙂
LikeLike
New book is only in Beta read.. ugh. Waiting is hard. I’m @ book # 212 for the year..saving my pennies for the new book.. rereading ones I own… Catherine Coulter, JoAnn Ferguson, JD Robb…..
LikeLike
I’m sorry for the long wait. Hopefully Book 13 won’t be interrupted by another move… in fact, I’m hoping I’ll never have to move again! (And if I do, it’ll be to an old-folks home and somebody will have to deal with the details.) 😉 I’m hoping to find a bit of reading time soon, too – I haven’t read Catherine Coulter or JoAnn Ferguson, so I must give them a try.
LikeLike
I’ve been re-reading the entire series….again 🙂 I’m on book 9 and thinking it would be great to see more of “Orion Moonjava”… change things up a bit! I love Hellhound and love to hate Kane at times during his more “controlling” moments. Can’t wait for book 12!
LikeLike
Hi Diane – It’s so cool to hear that you’re ‘re-re-reading’! That makes me happy! 🙂 And it’s funny that you were thinking of Orion Moonjava – he’ll likely make another appearance, although I’m not sure when. Book 12 is consuming all my time and attention at the moment – our move to the coast took such a giant chunk out of my time that I’m struggling to meet my self-imposed March deadline. I’ll re-evaluate next week and decide whether I can release it in March without compromising its quality or whether it needs to be pushed until April. Always a tough decision!
Thank you for stopping by to offer encouragement – I really appreciate it, especially now while I’m feeling behind on Book 12!
LikeLike
I m so glad you switched gears and got ayden out of sim and into the field. Can’t wait to go through spy training with her. Lol. You are an awesome writer. Please stay focused on this series or a whole new series if you must but I love aydens character. I’m 59 and loving it. We have time to read. My daughter is 30 and sucked em down too. 🙂
. I see so many authors start to write novels and other stuff..and all I want as a reader is the next book. :). We started the series last year so we were fortunate to get to read all 11 books. Reading them quickly because we can hardly put them down! Wish you could write them as fast as we read em. Thanks for providing these stories for us. T V is off most of the time as I do a lot of reading instead.
Thanks
LikeLike
Thanks, Barb! I’m so glad you’re loving the series, and it’s cool that you and your daughter both enjoy Aydan and the gang. I wish I could write them as fast as you could read them, too – that would be great for everybody! (I don’t think that’s going to start happening anytime soon, though, unfortunately.) 😉
Thank you for dropping by to comment – your support means a lot to me!
LikeLike
I am totally hooked since reading Book #1.
LikeLike
Thanks, Tom! That makes my day! 🙂
LikeLike
I think there are a growing number of team Arnie readers who agree totally with you and far prefer his tender heart to John Kane’s. But the choosing or not choosing is entirely up to each person at any given time. I envy your fresh eyes to be reading these terrific books for the first time. They just keep getting better. Welcome to Diane’s blog too. There are many hours to enjoy every one’s humor and stories. Glad to have you with us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am almost finished book 1 in audio.
Diane, it is fab, although fab is not really the best word. I really really really loved it. Your gunna have to get Michelle to read the others.
No pressure of course.
I think I enjoyed hearing someone else’s interpretation of emphasis on the story. And I have to say having someone read the sex scene was fun. I have fallen in love with Hellhound all over again, Cain wasn’t so bad at the start i did swoon at his discretion.
To misquote Dickins
Please miss can was have some more
LikeLike
I’m so glad you loved the audiobook – hooray! Producing them is a long slow process, and I’m hoping to get Book 2 started soon.
LikeLike
I just can’t find the word to describe how much I enjoy your books. Every time I finish the newest one I have to go back and read the series from book one -11 again. I just finished book 11. So here I go with book 1 again. Love them!
LikeLike
Thanks, Mary! I’m so flattered that you’re finding the series worth ‘re-re-‘ reading, and I really appreciate you taking the time to drop by and tell me! 😀
LikeLike
I have not yet finished the series, I’m on book 6 but have read 1-5 in less than a week. Obsession might be a word I’d use to describe reading these. I hope Ayden finds a way to work through some of her issues and allows herself to love. I will just have to finish off these other books and wait to see the next installment. Thanks for such an entertaining read!
LikeLike
Hi Brooke – It’s great to hear that you’re enjoying them enough to devour them at such an amazing rate! Aydan’s got a long way to go with her issues, but there’s still hope for her. All she has to do is stay alive long enough to work through everything… 😉
I hope you enjoy the rest of the series, and thanks for taking the time to come by and encourage me!
LikeLike
Yeah, some of Kelly and John or Hellhounds more intimate moments are not what I want her to hear (as a grandparent) ever. So I read it as them studying what they have learned of the bad guys tactics. One day she will read it and look at me and say GrandPa, you made parts up! Just trying to save her childhood like mine wasn’t.
Lookin forward the the next installment!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Calmly waiting for the next book!
Yeah, now that That lie is out of the way, sense book 3 I have gone back and re read the previous 2 (or more) books patiently waiting on the next book. I work nights, lotta free time…
Thank you so much for a flowing read that one can hardly put down.
oh, and My vote is for Hellhound, he knows how to keep Ms Kelly calm….ish.
But I do love how you play it (us) back and forth.
LikeLike
LOL! “Calm…ish” – love it! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the series, and that it’s kept you entertained through the nights. I have respect bordering on awe for people who can work nights – I’ve done my share of all-nighters, and by about 3:30 AM I’m utterly useless. Lucky there are people like you who can do it!
Thanks for dropping by and giving me my smile for the day! 🙂
LikeLike
It was the least I could do! You young lady have entertained many in my home. Kelly is a hero to one of my grand daughters! She is 7 so I have to make up my own narrative through certain parts as I read to her.
Keep up the great work!
We Love you!
LikeLike
You read the ‘Spy’ books to your granddaughter and make up your own narrative as you go along? That’s fabulous – I love it! 😀 You’ve just made my day all over again!
LikeLike
Yes my vote is for hellhound too
LikeLike
Oh my God, I can’t wait for book 12!!! I read through this entire series in less than two weeks, and now I’m just rereading them over and over until the 12th comes out.. I identify with this character on such an amazing level…it’s like you’re in my head! it’s funny, it’s heartbreaking, I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve gotten angry! all the character dynamics are so complex. I absolutely love this series!! I know you’re working hard, but please hurry I can’t wait for book 12 !! 😊
LikeLike
Thanks, Tia! I’m thrilled that you’re so into Aydan and her friends! I have a blast writing the series so I love to hear about it when somebody really “gets” it. I’m off to work on Book 12 now – your encouragement and enthusiasm made my day. Thanks again! 😀
LikeLike
Started reading this series last week. Just finished book 11. I thoroughly enjoyed each book, and am looking forward to book 12! Hope to see Aydan dealing with some of her past hangups and begin to settle into her job and to have a healthier relationship with both Hellhound and Kane. I would like to see her make a choice and be dedicated to whichever one it is, if it doesn’t work out that is a whole other plot line!
LikeLike
Wow, you really blew through the series – I’m glad you enjoyed it! I think Aydan is being forced to confront her issues and realize how they’ve been hampering her, and it’ll be interesting to see how that will affect her decisions in Book 12. I never really know until I start writing – just when I think I have these characters figured out, they throw another twist at me! 🙂
Thanks for taking the time to drop by and comment!
LikeLike
4ead all 11 of Adyan Kellys spy books ,and loved all of them!! Cant wait until you finish book 12!!!
LikeLike
Thanks, Margaret, that’s great to hear! I’m excited to be putting the first words on the page for Book 12 this week! 🙂
LikeLike
Pingback: Parts is Parts | Beth Younker
Just finished book 11, totally loved it as usual. Seems the relationship between Aydan and Arnie is deffo more than the relationship with John.
Not sure now things have changed for John, he could pursue a relationship with Aydan. Though I don’t want to spoil it for other people who haven’t got to book 11 yet.
Looking forward to book 12, when you have written it. And no I’m not rushing you to start and finish it. Time to clear some of the other books I have waiting impatiently for me to get to reading them.
Hope your managing to keep life under control, more than I am.
Hugs to all
Karen xx
LikeLike
Thanks, Karen! Life is as ‘under control’ as it ever gets for me… which is not very. But that’s okay – wouldn’t want to get bored or anything, right? 😉
LikeLike
Does a happy dance, book 6 finally arrived so that’s all 10 books on my shelf, just waiting for book 11 to be released in paperback and then I will have the full set on my bookshelf.
Just started book 10 again,I ended up watching 4seasons of death in paradise over the Easter weekend and the picture is still waiting to go up on the wall oh well there is always this weekend when I’m off
LikeLiked by 1 person
Woohoo! Must get that paperback version released now – it’s next on my t0-do list! 🙂
LikeLike
Don’t forget the audio book
LikeLike
Coming soon! Probably not for a few weeks, though. Life got in the way of my schedule and everything got pushed, but I’ll get there eventually. 🙂
LikeLike
Gotta love Amazon, ordered 2 more books a few weeks, 3-5 weeks on delivery, then they changed their mind and I should get them next Tuesday, then I get an email to say Saturday, and a knock at the door about half hour ago was the Amazon delivery driver yey Amazon. Book 3 and book 9.
Delivered from Poland no less and arrived wrapped in plastic.
Just waiting on book 4 and book
LikeLike
Cont from above as hlf the comment got eaten
Book 6.
Just have to order books 7, 8 and 10 oh and 11 when it’s out in both paperback and on my kobo
Most of the paperbacks are the new covers with a total babe on the cover 😉😇
Just wish I could start book 3 now instead of eating before my interview, still it will be waiting for me when I get home later
Hugs to you all
Xxx
LikeLike
Poland – wow! I didn’t even know Amazon had a warehouse there – go figure. Thanks again for splurging on the paperbacks – that’s a lovely compliment! 🙂
LikeLike
While waiting for Amazon to deliver more of your wonderful books in paperback, I picked up my kobo and having finished my latest murder mystery I looked up the book version of your blogs, I downloaded (and bought) the three available.
I’m almost finished the first one and feel I should possibly apologise Tommy colleagues but I’m not going to, I have never giggled so much reading anything for a very long time.
Amazon have promised I will have book 3 by next Tuesday I’m sooooooo enjoying re-reading them, rediscovering the relationships as they started, remembering how much I disliked Stemp??? At first then as the books went on how much I really liked him.
I’m definitely Team Hellhound (hehe so much so that my tablet has the word already highlighted as I start to type Hellhound)
I’m still looking forward to the release of book 11, but the Amazon guy knocking at my hehe also fills me with delight but right now anything better than waiting to hear back from/about jobs
Hugs to all
Keep writing Diane, you are keeping me sane at work if that doesn’t sound too insane hehe
LikeLike
To my even
LikeLike
I’ve just laughed til tears were streaming down my face ‘cooking with spam’ God help me reading ‘ more yummy spam’ I will have to look up the comments when I can breath again or maybe when I’m home and it safe to giggle again
LikeLike
Thanks, Karen – I’m so glad to keep you giggling! And hey, giggling at work is the best – it keeps your co-workers on their toes, wondering what you’re up to. 😉
Keeping my fingers crossed for your new job!
LikeLike
Wow! I have enjoyed your books, …looking forward to #11. You have fans loyal to John, but I think Ayden should kick lying, stalking John to the curb. She then would be free to work on her cars, remodel her farm, and enjoy Hellhound’s lowdown gritty blues.
LikeLike
Thanks, J.R. – I’m so glad you’re enjoying the series! And it’s nice to hear from somebody who’s backing Hellhound – he has a lot of supporters, but they’re generally not as vocal as Team Kane. 😉
LikeLike
Starting on Book 12! Think I’ve died and gone to heaven! Am taking my time re reading as I want to savor the enjoyment. Am currently on Book 8 so should be ready for # 11 when it arrives on my Kindle. Diane, I love your characters and your plots. Not many books can survive re reading.
Thanks for the enjoyment.
LikeLike
Thank you so much for your encouragement, Barb! It makes all my work feel worthwhile. (Especially today, when I’m working on marketing stuff – blech. I’d much rather be writing!) 🙂
LikeLike
Re-reading the books, OK just the first one so far but I gotta say
Diane I’m in love with them again maybe more so than I was before as I have them in actual paperbacks (OK only 3 so far but I will get them all)
Id forgotten how good the first sentence was, I have smiled and giggled and gotten those looks from colleagues again. And you know what I don’t care I am enjoying the books again.
Diane you are a real gem, I can honestly say you are a true first, I will own your books in both formats eBook and paperback. No other author has managed that yet or probably ever.
I can take them all with my on my kobo and enjoy an actual book when I want to curl up with soft music and a nice glass of something cold, or a nice bath (OK that maybe tmi)
I know your books are great and anyone who knows me knows that are great coz I tell them regularly, and now maybe I’ll let them borrow a book or maybe not they can buy there own
Keep writing and I promise to keep reading
Best get back to Ayden, I left her with John handling her yellow underwear 😉
Hugs
Karen xxxx
LikeLike
Hi Karen! I’m honoured to be on your shelves in both paperback and electronic form – thank you so much for your loyalty and kind words! And thank you for spreading the word to your friends, too – that really means a lot to me.
I’m glad you’re enjoying Book 1 all over again – have fun! (And I’m already beginning to plan Book 12…) 🙂
LikeLike
Does a happy dance book 12 yey
Just finished book 1, taking book 2 to work with me, thank goodness I have a job where I can read and not have to bust my butt working all the time.
Have to say team Hellhound all the way, mind I’d go Kane personally, with Hellhound hehehe. Oh who am I kidding I couldn’t decide between them. But in book 1 Aydan has a better relationship with Hellhound, I look forward to re-reading them all while waiting for book 11 to be released. And now you have said it book 12 to appear
Oh how’s the audio book coming along? I still think it’s a shame your not reading it
LikeLike
Thanks, Karen! The audiobook is finished, and it’s just waiting its turn to be published. Once Book 11 is out the door, the audiobook version of Never Say Spy will be next on the list. And maybe I should post a bit of the early recording I did for it – it’s good for a laugh if nothing else! 😉
LikeLike
You soo should kinda of a blooper version just for the fans.
I’ve never read if thats the right word an audio book, but I do love a good radio play nice dark night with candles nothing better
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m going to need therapy waiting lol. I’ve just re-read the first 9 books and I’m part way through 10. Awesome. I love the characters. Thank you!
LikeLike
Thanks, Angela! I’m always so flattered when people re-read the series! 😀
LikeLike
Yippee! You have created such amazingly real characters that I, and I think your readers, care what happens to them. Am enjoying re-reading the earlier books but am so excited about #11. Thanks for so much entertainment, Diane.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure – I love writing this series! 🙂
LikeLike
And as you write, please Diane have Ayden get some help for her commitment issues! She needs to be able to trust those who care so deeply for her.
LikeLike
You’ll be pleased to know that Aydan has four months of helpful therapy under her belt in Book 11! But I can’t tell you any more without spoilers… 😉
LikeLike
I need the next book NOW! I’m unable to sleep knowing that all is not well because Ayden’s not in control. She needs some love and she has 2 prospective partners. Please write even faster…..
LikeLike
I’m doing my best! 🙂 *scurries off to write*
LikeLike
Geoff, I know how you feel! Book 11is needed by your ardent fans, Diane and am having a hard time waiting. Out of desperation, I have started re-reading the series starting with the first book. It is actually a great idea as I am reading them more slowly (I tend to pig out so to say when I find a book I enjoy, gobbling it up in record time) and am appreciating the character development in light of the future books. Still, can’t wait for #11!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s all anyone can do. Do your best, and write or paint for yourself first, being true to your own inner critic. If you work in hopes of pleasing everyone you will turn out the most boring tripe that will only please the least discriminating customers. If you surprise yourself, you will also surprise and delight the more critical amongst us. You clearly understand that some people will not like your first book and won’t buy book #2, but your loyal readers are very likely to still read more books even if there are elements that didn’t work for them in a single book. I don’t ever want to miss a word.
LikeLike
Thanks, el Tea! I really appreciate your encouragement! 😀 (And Book 11 is past the ‘Ugly Teenage Phase’ now. Not quite to ‘Graceful Adult’ yet, but getting there…)
LikeLike
Woo-hoo! Can’t wait!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have just finished reading the last book(#10) of Never Say Spy!!!! Truly the best one of the best series I have ever read !!! Thank-you for writing in Technicolor and such detail! Congratulations on your great writing skills and story telling!!!
LikeLike
Thanks, Billie, that’s so great to hear! My writing process goes through predictable stages with each book and I was just at the ‘self-doubt’ stage with Book 11. Your kind words and encouragement made my day! 🙂
LikeLike
Hi Diane,
The creative process is so interesting. So many of my own paintings go through a self-doubt stage that I named it The Ugly Teenage Phase.
Mind you, I’ve never raised a child through adulthood, but from my memories of what my siblings and I put our parents through, I named the phase. In the last years of teens and for a few years thereafter, as the teenager transitions into the independence of adulthood, the child is such a beast- so bad that the parents are about to give up all hope of the kid turning into a reasonable adult. If the parents are assured not to give up hope, that they need to hang on for just a bit longer, the kid finally matures into responsible, glorious adulthood.
This happens in my own work so often that when I see the frustration on the faces of my painting students, I can tell them that their painting is just an hour or two from the final, most fun part, namely adding the flourishes and small details that add the spark of life to the work.
It is nice that you are seeing the stages your books go through and are recognising them as part of the process. It should help to ease your doubts that the book is doomed and to understand that it is almost done- and a thing of great beauty is just around the corner.
LikeLike
Thanks, el Tea! It’s nice to know an artist of your calibre goes through the same process. And I got a giggle from ‘The Ugly Teenage Phase’! I didn’t experience that with my first books because I was writing only for myself, but now I feel a tremendous responsibility to my loyal readers. Every time I release a new book, I think, “Oh, I hope they aren’t disappointed!”
The sad part is that with such a diverse readership, the exact same book will thrill some and disappoint others; so I just do my very best with each one and try not to put myself through the mental wringer. 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks for your comments, Sandy, Barb, Geoff, and el Tea. You all make excellent points, and I enjoyed watching the discussion unfold! I’m privileged to welcome intelligent people like you to my blog – it’s so nice to see you present such well-considered opinions, and respect each other even when disagreeing.
You guys rock – thanks for making my day! 🙂
LikeLike
Good points about Hellhound and if ‘it’ turns out to be him in the end, that is OK. He has his own demons as well but there is a much deeper level of trust between Ayden and Arnie than Ayden ank Kame. He is possessive and needs to come to terms with that. Doubt Ayden will ever be totally with either one, she is too much her own person. You’re keeping us guessing, Diane!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Sandi and Geoff,
I’ll grant the fact that in the poll, Team Kane is ahead of all others, but I agree totally with Geoff that Hellhound is the better match for Aydan. He is so emotionally supportive and nurturing, she is free to trust him totally. With him, Aydan isn’t tempted to be anything but her truest self. With Kane, it is constant conflict and Aydan is always sublimating her needs for what Kane wants or needs. I really don’t know what the majority see in Kane over Arnie.
Kill off either man and you have lost the tension. At that point the series is over.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think Hellhound’s just hiding his true feelings because of hurt he’s both caused and received in the past. Once he’s got his head around that fact I believe he’d be the better of the two for Ayden. John comes across as being a bit too possessive for a long-term relationship to last.
Geoff B.
LikeLiked by 1 person
YES, YES, YES!!! But Hellhound is a good foil for Aden. She needs to start being as honest with Kane as she is with Arnie. But get Kane and Ayden at least into a stable relationship! PLEASE! A
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ok, I’m 40% into book 10 and while I don’t want you to kill Hellhound off, I wish out of loyalty to Kane (knowing his feelings for Ayden) Hellhound would cut out the physical relationship with Ayden. It seems like a lousy thing for Hellhound to do to Kane. Of course, this goes along with my romantic on-going wish that Ayden would just end up with Kane already!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kind of seems wrong to say Arnie should back off since he was actually with Ayden first. She keeps coming back to him so Kane should be the one to stay away
LikeLiked by 1 person
Please write faster….. ;o)
LikeLike
I’ll try! 🙂 You can stalk my progress here: https://blog.dianehenders.com/books/#11 (I update the graph once a week.)
LikeLike
Thanks for your reply Diane. Being a hopeless romantic, I would love to see John and Ayden finally having an open, honest relationship. Maybe you need to connect John’s mouth to his brain ( or another part of his anatomy) so the two of them can enjoy each other more. But keep Hellhound around too, at least he keeps Ayden on a more honest, level plain!
Can’t wait to find out what happens next!
B
LikeLiked by 1 person
“…another part of his anatomy…” – LOL! 😀
LikeLike
**DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU HAVEN’T READ BOOK 11, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED**
I too would like to see a happy ending between John and Aydan.
I completely understand what some of the above comments are saying about Hellhound seeming a better match for her at this point, and I agree that John is possessive and jealous and fickle and lots of other not very good things, but that’s because he’s messed up too. They’re all messed up.
Between ‘the tattoo’ and ‘The Animal’, I think Hellhound has found/is finding some peace now and I’m happy for him, but I’d like to see Aydan help John to heal now too.
I’m worried about Alicia. As someone above stated, things have changed for John now and I don’t know how it could even work out between him and Aydan, but I don’t want John and Alicia to get back together. As Aydan says, Alicia and John need to work together for the sake of their child, but I’d hate for him to go back to her. She divorced him once when he was in a bad way and was just doing his job and doing his best… and his job is even riskier since that happened, how long would it be before she hurt him again? Anyway, don’t ask me why, I just feel very strongly against a reconciliation. But I think he probably will go back for the sake of Daniel. Whether he really wants to take Alicia back or not I suspect he will think it’s his duty and stifle his feelings. Part of his being messed up emotionally I guess.
So I’m very much Team Kane, despite my undeniable love for Hellhound.
Tom seems like a really great guy…for a civilian book keeper. And Aydan ain’t in Kansas anymore, Toto. I don’t see how anything could work out between the two of them unless he turns out to be an undercover agent also. Even if Aydan took him off the no-go list, the simplest logistics of a relationship between an undercover agent posing as a civilian book keeper and an unsuspecting civilian farmer seem tricksy at best. And anyway, they’ve what, shared a couple of kisses or so? I don’t think he’s in the running anyway, it’s hardly some grand passion at this point.
I’m loving Reggie Chow and his left nut, he’s an absolute delight.
And *somewhere*, at some point along the way I’ve gone from truly despising Stemp to BLOODY LOVING HIM.
Never thought I’d say it, but Stemp is an awesome guy. I’m hoping we meet his family sometime soon, and fingers crossed Aydan can help him too, eventually. It must be driving Aydan crazy to know what she knows about Stemp and what she knows about his parents and know there’s a happy ending there if they would just let themselves take it.
So I’m waiting for your next book like Aydan waiting for a cold one and her hot wings…
LikeLike
Thanks, Jessica! I’m thrilled that you’ve turned around in your opinion of Stemp! He and Aydan butted heads a lot, with good reasons on both sides, but I’ve always felt a little sorry for Stemp because I imagined what it would be like to be in his position: taking over a Department with a catastrophic security leak, being completely isolated from his family, having no close friends, and then being confronted with Aydan and the potential security threat she represented into the bargain.
And I’m glad you love Reggie, too – I had so much fun writing him! Prickly characters always throw a little extra spice into the pot!
Stay tuned for Book 12, where things are already getting complicated with John and Alicia… 😉
LikeLike
Can’t wait! Although, in a way I’m also dreading it because of the John and Alicia thing and me selfishly hoping they don’t make a go of it 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person