This one is definitely better than #1. Characters were better developed, the plot was more varied and the context and pacing were fairly consistent. Even the love scenes were better. It really helps that Ivan is a lovable nut.
I do not get why some people seem to expect AJ Sherwood to write differently than she does. While the writing can be criticized as not 'academically strong', her style is fluid and friendly for those who are reading for pure entertainment.
I prefer to read a huge variety of tropes and styles as one type becomes boring. Everything has its place - even Harlequin - which I used to take to my university English Romance Era Lit classes just to see the veins pop on my professor's forehead. He was such a literary snob. ( )

Fantastic. Delightful! Wonderful. If you'd told me I'd fall in love with a criminal team, I'd-a side-eyed you, but HERE WE ARE. *bounces in place waiting for #3* ( )