Christmas Bodyguard - Rachel Lee (HI #2038 - Dec 2021)

Series: Conard County: The Next Generation (Book 46)

They'll bring a criminal to justice
If an assassin doesn't kill her first
 
Security expert Hale Scribner doesn't get personal with clients. Ever. But Allie Burton isn't his standard low-risk charge. She has evidence that could put away a notoriously shady CEO for good. But with an assassin trailing them 24/7, there are few places to hide in a small Wyoming town. Not from the danger…or their undeniable attraction. They'll need a Christmas miracle to survive both.
 
Good book. This one is a little different than most Conard County books in that our hero and heroine didn't start there. Allie is an accountant in California, working for a large international company. When she found a mistake, she brought it to the attention of CEO Jasper Ellis; he told her not to tell anyone about it, and that "bad things can happen." She thinks nothing of it until she tells her dad's old friend Max about it. Max is a detective whose department has been investigating Ellis for years, and he immediately tells Allie she is in danger and needs a bodyguard. Allie takes a lot of convincing, but she eventually agrees.
 
Hale is a former Marine who now owns his own security company. He and Max are good friends, so he comes immediately when Max calls him. Hale is a tall man with an intimidating air. As soon as he knows who Allie is up against, he knows he has his work cut out. He's adamant about taking Allie and going on the run until he "can take care of the threat." Allie is horrified by Hale's rules but knows she has no choice.
 
I ached for Allie, who was way out of her depth. Hale is the only thing standing between her and an assassin's bullet. While she's afraid, it doesn't stop her from trying to stand up to Hale and his demands. I felt bad for Hale because he kept having to remind her of the trouble she was in.
 
The suspense built over the next few days as Hale and Allie stayed on the move. He has a second-in-command who works with him, keeping Hale informed via coded conversations. Hale's frustration grows when he can't seem to shake some of their followers. He worries about a mole in his company, undiscovered tracking devices, and where the assassin is. Meanwhile, sparks of attraction grow between Hale and Allie. They do their best to resist, not needing the distraction, and there's no future in it. Max's life hasn't lent itself to believing in love, and Allie isn't the type for a fling. There are several emotional scenes when they talk about their pasts.
 
It isn't long before Allie starts getting under Hale's skin. Besides his care to keep her safe, there are some sweet scenes where he does little things to make her more comfortable. When Hale decides it's time to change tactics, they hole up in a small Wyoming town for a few extra hours. Allie decides she's reached her limit and tells Hale she isn't leaving. It's almost Christmas, and the small town's celebrations call to her. I loved this look at Conard City from an outsider's perspective. I liked seeing past characters as Allie made friends and her joy in approaching something normal. On the other hand, Hale's frustration with her stubbornness was understandable, and his fears for her safety were more than job-related.
 
The tension ramped up as the bad guys closed in. A not-so-chance encounter with Sheriff Gage Dalton eventually led to a closer conversation. I loved Allie's determination to take a stand and how she dragged Hale along with her. I could feel Hale's pride in her strength and his fear for her safety. The final confrontation was terrific. I loved seeing some familiar faces lend a hand and stayed glued to the pages until it was all over. The epilogue was excellent, with a wrap-up of the suspense. I also loved the Christmas present Hale gave Allie and the declaration that went with it.

A Song of Secrets - Jayci Lee (HD #2853 - Feb 2022)

 

Series: Hana Trio (Book 1)

Her secret tore them apart.
 
Will his secret reunite them?
 
World-renowned cellist Angie Han is desperate to save her trio's chamber music society. So when she discovers that her ex Joshua Shin is the anonymous composer setting the classical music world on fire, she asks for his help. The sexy musician agrees to an uneasy truce to protect his secret success. But when their passion reignites, Angie's own secrets may be exposed. Will Joshua ever trust her again? And will what's keeping them apart ever lead them to happily-ever-after?
 
A good second chance love story, and opener for the Hana Trio series. The book opens with an emotional scene where Joshua and Angie see each other again for the first time in ten years, at a fundraiser for the local chamber music society. Angie and her sisters are among the performers, and Joshua is one of the attendees in place of his sick grandfather. Joshua is swamped by the memories of their college romance where they bonded over their music and gave in to the attraction that burned between them. He also remembers her walking away from him, his heartbreak destroying his ability to make music. When they come face-to-face, Joshua hides his still-simmering attraction to her behind anger and coldness when Angie asks him if he's happy.
 
Two months later, Angie receives the devastating news that the chamber music society may have to close. Their operating funds are dangerously low due to the pandemic, and their fundraising efforts have not kept up. After her estranged father refused to donate without Angie giving up her hard-fought independence, she was at a loss on how to help. Then, while listening to a piece from an anonymous new composer, Angie heard a musical phrase she never expected to hear again. I loved her determination to take what she knew and ask Joshua to compose a piece for the Society season-opening and ached at his stubborn refusal. But when Joshua's beloved grandfather has a heart attack, Joshua offers to write the piece in exchange for Angie playing her cello as music therapy for him.
 
Spending time together with his grandfather and working on his composition rekindles the attraction that still burns between them. Neither can resist the pull and decide that they can satisfy it with a no-strings affair. Each is determined to keep emotions out of it, but we all know how well that works. I loved seeing the quiet times they spent together and their collaborative efforts for his contribution. It didn't take long for Joshua's anger to fade, though he fought hard against acknowledging the love that had never gone away. Angie begins to feel the strain of pretending she doesn't want more than the affair they agreed to.
 
The emotional intensity ramped up when the secrecy failed. Joshua and Angie's world began to implode. I hurt for Angie, who faced the double pain of Joshua rejecting her love and believing her capable of revealing his secret. The depth of her pain dripped off the pages, and I was grateful for the closeness she shared with her sisters. I loved their support as she tried to overcome her heartbreak. I wanted to be mad at Joshua, but he faced his own Armageddon. Not only had he lost Angie through his stubborn blindness, but he also ran the risk of losing his promotion to CEO of the family business. I loved seeing him realize the truth of his feelings for Angie and her place in his life and how he used that to prepare his fight for his job. To my delight, he rocked the scene in the boardroom. Even better, I loved how his focus moved on to finding a way to win Angie back. I wasn't surprised by his method, but the details showed how well he knew her and how much she meant to him. The openness and honesty of Joshua's confession to her were intensely emotional and went a long way toward making up for the hurt he caused. I loved the ending and hope to see more of them in her sisters' books.

Colton's Pursuit of Justice - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2167 - Feb 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 1)

Determined to redeem the Coltons' reputation
He'll help with even the unlikeliest case…
 
His family name is being dragged through the mud, but Caleb Colton is about righting wrongs. So when he believes that activist Nadine Sutherland's father has been duped by a shady oil company, Caleb vows to help her -- and protect her. Someone doesn't want Nadine poking into the deal, and the threats are escalating. But as Caleb works overtime with passionate Nadine, guarding his heart gets harder and harder…and so does staying alive!
 
Good start to the new Coltons of Colorado series. Caleb Colton is the oldest of Ben Colton's twelve children. Ben was a respected judge until he was caught taking kickbacks from private jails and juvenile detention centers for sending many innocent people to those facilities. He died in a car accident before he could be tried. In the twenty years since then, Caleb and his twin sister Morgan became lawyers and set about clearing the family name. After starting their own law firm and The Truth Foundation, they set about righting their father's wrongs.
 
Caleb's workaholic ways in focusing on his mission cost him his marriage though he remained friends with his ex-wife. When she called him and asked for his help for her cousin Nadine he was happy to help. Nadine is an activist, a talented jewelry maker, and a concerned daughter. Her father recently signed away the fracking rights on his property, and she suspects the oil company took advantage of his diminishing mental capabilities. Shortly after Nadine began asking questions, she received threatening phone calls. While she's not convinced she's in any danger, she does want Caleb's help in getting her father's land back.
 
Caleb is with Nadine when she receives one of those calls and thinks she is in more danger than she will admit. He gets a good dose of her argumentative nature when she fights against every step he wants to take to protect her. While her argumentativeness amuses him, it also frustrates him that her stubborn independence won't allow her to see when she needs help. Underneath the antagonism are undeniable sparks of attraction. After his divorce, Caleb gave up any idea of having a family of his own, but Nadine made him rethink his stance. Nadine never thought she'd fall for a lawyer, but his work shows her the good man he is at heart. I loved how she got involved in helping Caleb with the cases he's working on, showing him the possibilities for a life-long partnership. He just needs to get past the threats against her and his own fears. But it took nearly losing her to get him to that point. I loved the ending and seeing the changes in Caleb and his view of the future.
 
The suspense was terrific. It started quickly with the threats against Nadine and Caleb's determination to protect her. As they delved into the land grab details, the threats escalated. I was a little irritated at Nadine and the risks she took, capped by her headlong rush to her father's house at the end. I was glued to the pages as I wondered how she and her dad would escape their danger. The resolution of the case was satisfying, though I would have liked a bit of the oil company's reaction.
 
There is also a secondary story involving one of Ben Colton's victims. We get some progress on that case, but no resolution. This storyline may run through some, if not all, of the books in the series.

Undercover K-9 Cowboy - Addison Fox (HI #2169 - Feb 2022)

Series: Midnight Pass, Texas (Book 4)

A by-the-book Fed…gone rogue for justice
 
To stop the drug epidemic ravaging Midnight Pass, FBI agent Ryder Durant reluctantly takes matters into his own hands. Poised to set a trap at Reynolds Station, he has to contend with Arden Reynolds -- who prefers Ryder's K-9 to the Fed protecting her family. As Ryder and Arden spar, embers spring into flame. And those flames are as dangerous as the crime ring lurking too close to home…
 
Good conclusion to the series. Though it is the fourth book, there is enough backstory woven in that it works well as a stand-alone. Ryder is the new senior FBI agent in Midnight Pass, tasked with stopping the drug runners using Midnight Pass ranchlands to move their drugs. He focuses on Reynolds Station, the most likely location of that route. Ryder wants to use their land to set up a trap and needs their agreement. The first person he encounters on his quest is Arden Reynolds.
 
Arden is the youngest of the Reynolds siblings and the only girl. In addition to helping on the ranch, she owns a yoga studio in town. She learned early how to hold her own against testosterone-driven arguments with three older brothers. After a romantic relationship goes bad, Arden is wary of good-looking, charming men. She also resists giving her heart to anyone/anything, preferring to avoid the chance of heartbreak.
 
Arden and Ryder met one day when she confronted him about tying his dog up in front of a store while he was inside. The encounter ended amicably, with Arden falling hard for Ryder's dog, Murphy, but wary of Ryder. Neither one can stop thinking about the other.
 
I loved the family meeting where Ryder presented his case to the Reynolds family. He's honest about his needs and his desire to ensure their safety. I could feel his frustration when they refused to let him do his thing without their involvement simply. There is a lot of interesting back-and-forth negotiation over the next few days before both sides are satisfied. I especially enjoyed the time that Arden and Ryder spent together. Though Arden tries to keep him at arm's length, Ryder finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her. Though he tries to talk himself out of it, he quickly realizes that he is falling for her. There are a few clashes as Arden doesn't always appreciate his insight into what makes her tick. She also can't deny that he makes her feel safe amid the danger that stalks the ranch. But it takes nearly losing her life for Arden to let go of the past and embrace a future with Ryder.
 
The suspense was good though it started slowly. Ryder has his plans for a trap to catch the smugglers, but it takes a backseat when a ranch hand is murdered. A disturbing encounter while Ryder and Arden are on a date gives him the feeling that something is off. That feeling intensifies when a friend of Arden's expresses concerns about her current boyfriend, and Arden shares them with Ryder. I liked seeing Ryder team up with his predecessor to determine the truth. I was on the edge of my seat as the bad guy kidnapped Arden. Her calmness in the face of danger was fantastic, and I loved seeing her fight back. I could feel Ryder's fear when he realized she was missing and his determination to find her. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, with rescue coming from an unexpected source. My only disappointment was that there were a couple of threads left hanging. Perhaps there will be a second series dealing with those.
 
I loved the family dynamics with the Reynolds clan. The men are the rough and tough rancher stock, with one having also been in Special Forces. They are protective of their ladies and their land. Their wives have all been through traumatic events before finding their happy endings. Those events gave them all a core of strength that comes in handy when dealing with the current trouble. I also enjoyed seeing them side with Arden and work to get their men to see that action now will make the future safer. The epilogue was great.

 

The Five-Day Reunion - Mona Shroff (HSE #2891 - Feb 2022)

Series: Once Upon a Wedding (Book 1)

They ended their marriage but they never fell out of love…
 
Law student Anita Virani hasn't seen her ex-husband since the ink dried on their divorce papers. Now she's agreed to pretend she's still married to Nikhil until his sister's wedding celebrations are over -- because her former mother-in-law neglected to tell her family of their split! The closeness they share during the marriage act gives Anita new insight into the man she once loved so deeply. And reignites Nikhil's feelings for her…
 
Terrific second chance romance. Anita and Nikhil married young and divorced after just two years. They haven't seen each other in the three years since then. When Nikhil arrives at his mother's home for the start of his sister, Tina's, five days of wedding festivities, he is shocked to find his ex-wife there. Furious, he confronts his mother, who confesses that she never told the rest of the family about the divorce. Afraid of the news's effect on her elderly father, Nikhil's mother begs him to pretend they are still married until the wedding is over.
 
Nikhil is very reluctant to play along. He's still hurt and angry over the way Anita walked away from their marriage. Anita is also dubious, but his mother made her an offer she couldn't refuse. Forced to spend time together to keep up the deception, it doesn't take long for old feelings to resurface. But both of them have significant baggage from their past that must be dealt with before they can think about giving in to those feelings.
 
Nikhil is the odd man out in his family. All of the others are lawyers, while he is a writer. Despite being a best-selling author, Nikhil gets no respect from his family members. I ached for him because it's obvious that it hurts. I lost count of the number of times he was put down, asked when he'd get a "real job," or just plain ignored. Meanwhile, Anita, who is in her third year of law school, gets all of the attention he doesn't, which adds to his frustration. I could feel Nikhil's determination to show them all, even though he did the same things he blamed them for.
 
I liked how the time they spent together brought back memories of the good times, which helped make their forced proximity easier to carry off. With a little more maturity under their belts, they also begin to see that neither one was blameless in the failure of their marriage. I loved seeing them open up about their feelings and perceptions during those last days and realize that they'd still be married if they'd been better at communicating. It gave me hope for them when I saw Nikhil's pride in Anita's community law work and Anita's vocal support of him when his family's cluelessness/obnoxiousness got out of hand.
 
When Nikhil's ex-girlfriend shows up and wants him back, she doesn't take well to being denied. I could tell she would be trouble, especially when Anita got involved. In this case, Nikhil's brother had his back, and I loved seeing them deal with her quickly and decisively. Unfortunately, she didn't go quietly and stirred up quite a storm in her wake. I loved Anita's response.
 
With the cat out of the bag, Nikhil and Anita have some soul-searching and decisions to make. I loved Nikhil's advice from his brother and mother, which helped him realize he couldn't let history repeat itself. I loved his big moment and seeing that they've both learned from their mistakes. The epilogue was fantastic.
 
I loved the setting of a traditional Indian wedding. The information about the clothes, food, and entertainment was fascinating. I'm not familiar with the ceremonies, and I loved how each part was shown in a way that I could easily understand. I also liked how each event that Anita and Nikhil participated in brought back memories or gave them the chance to clear up something from their past.
 
The family dynamics were complex. Nikhil's feelings of being the black sheep were understandable because of how he was treated. His backstory made his insecurity when it came to anything to do with the family law firm heartbreaking to witness. Nikhil's mother irritated me through most of the book because she was one of the worst offenders, mainly to "save face" with her relatives. I liked Nikhil's grandfather. He was kind, funny, and more with-it than most gave him credit for. Nikhil's aunts were a pain and busybodies of the worst variety. I loved his sister, Tina, and her support of Nikhil. His brother Rocky bugged me for a long time but redeemed himself. I liked the younger couples, who seemed more relaxed and fun-loving.

A Proposal in Provence - Donna Alward (HR #4792 - Feb 2022)

Series: Heirs to an Empire (Book 5)

An escape from scandal…
…rescued by the tycoon!
 
PR assistant Anemone Jones loves working in Paris for the glamorous Pemberton family…until she discovers she is in fact their half-sibling! When the scandal hits the tabloids, it's her gorgeous boss, Phillippe Leroux, who sweeps her off to his idyllic home in Grasse. Phillippe's proposal in Provence gives Annie breathing space to process her new life -- and even find a place in his…
 
Terrific story. Anemone (Annie) Jones was raised by a single mother. She never knew her father or who he was until after her mother's death. Annie would love to get to know her half-siblings but is wary of her reception. She takes a job at Aurora, the family company, without letting anyone know of her connection.
 
As the story opens, Stephen Pemberton discovers that his father had been making unknown payments to someone up until his death. Determined to get to the bottom of it, he sets his investigators on the problem and is horrified by what he finds out. The father they all admired had had an affair that produced another child. The next step was to locate that child.
 
Meanwhile, Annie works in the PR department at Aurora's Paris office. She is assigned to help Phillippe Leroux plan the launch of the newest Aurora fragrance. Her organizational skills are stellar, and she has become indispensable to Phillippe. Annie has quite a crush on Phillippe, handsome, kind, and an excellent boss. Annie doesn't know it, but Phillippe is just as drawn to her. Two things are holding him back. First, he is her boss. Second, he is divorced, and his first wife's actions left him determined to avoid romantic entanglements.
 
When Annie receives a summons to report to a meeting with the head boss, she has no idea what's in store for her. Confronted by the united front of her half-siblings, they accuse her of wanting to blackmail them for money, create a scandal, etc. Horrified and devastated by the accusations and the coldness of her so-called family, Annie is furious when Stephen attempts to buy her off.
 
I ached for Annie, who just wanted some family, and instead, they accused her of horrible intentions. I loved how Phillippe stood up for her and protected her. Though he tries to deny his feelings for her, it's easy to see that Annie has found her way into his heart. I loved watching the attraction between them build until it became too much to resist. Phillippe's pride in her accomplishments was one motivation in his insistence that she attend the launch gala, and I loved the steps he took to make it possible. I also liked the little bit of "rub their faces in it" attitude he had, knowing that the Pembertons wouldn't exactly be happy that she was there.
 
When disaster struck in the form of a tabloid story about Annie, Phillippe was the one who rode to the rescue. I loved seeing him take her to the place where he's happiest and where he can let go and be himself. I loved seeing Phillippe open up about his past and trust Annie with the pain and guilt he still feels. There were plenty of sweet scenes of them together, like picking roses for perfume, and a couple of steamy ones, such as their trip to Cannes. The tension returned when Annie received a call asking her to visit the Pemberton chateau. Once again, Phillippe was ready to stand by her side in support but stood back when Annie wanted to do it on her own. I loved the boost in confidence that he gave her.
 
I was happy to see that the Pemberton family redeemed themselves, but it complicated matters for Phillippe. I ached for him and his fear of history repeating itself and wanted to shake Annie for being a bit insensitive in her excitement. Fortunately, their separation didn't last long. I loved the depth of emotion expressed as Annie and Phillippe finally shared their feelings. The ending was great. I loved seeing their decisions about their future and loved Phillippe's big moment.

The Shoe Diaries - Darby Baham (HSE #2890 - Feb 2022)

Series: Friendship Chronicles (Book 1)

It's never too late to put your best foot forward
 
From the outside, Reagan “Rae” Doucet has it all: a coveted career in Washington, DC, a tight circle of friends and a shoe closet to die for. When one of her crew falls ill, however, Rae is done playing it safe. The talented but unfulfilled writer makes a “risk list” to revamp her life. But forgiving her ex, Jake Saunders, might be one risk too many…
 
For me, this was just an okay book. I had a hard time liking the main character, Rae. Early in the book, she seems to have a constant litany of complaints, from her job to her love life, but no intention of actually doing anything about them. The best part of her life is her vast closet full of shoes, and even there, she shows discontent over the ones she's never worn.
 
Rae is a journalist who works for an online magazine in DC, writing about political and social issues. She'd love to take her articles in new directions, but her boss is resistant to the idea, and Rae doesn't push. Instead, she backs down and grumbles to her friends about being stifled. She runs into her ex-boyfriend from college, who apologizes for being a jerk and indicates an interest in trying again. But Rae isn't interested in risking her heart on someone who's already broken it once.
 
Then one of Rae's best friends falls ill. Christine encourages Rae to stop playing it safe and go after what she wants while she can. With the encouragement of her friends, Rae begins a "risk list" of goals to break out of her safe little world. But writing it down and doing it are two different propositions, and weeks go by with no progress. I liked seeing her other friends hold Rae accountable for her delaying tactics.
 
I was happy when Rae finally started taking those risks, though I ached for her over the catalyst for it. I especially enjoyed her confrontation with her boss, though I initially thought she would back down again. Her fears are understandable, and the realism of her job search was well done. It was great to see that someone appreciated her drive and creativity when she found a good fit for employment.
 
My biggest disappointment was in the lack of romance. At the beginning of the book, there's a brief sighting of Jake, the college ex, but then Rae gets involved with this other guy. It looked serious, which left me confused. When that relationship crashed and burned, I ached for Rae and understood what happened. I liked the support she received from her friends and family but wondered if/when we'd see Jake again. Though he made a few more appearances, I never felt any connection between him and Rae, so the so-called romance fell flat for me.
 
This book felt much more like a chick-lit story than a romance. I liked seeing the growth that Rae experienced and enjoyed the linking of her shoes to various life events. It isn't unusual for inanimate objects to trigger memories, which was well done. I would like to have seen an epilogue with a bit more of Rae and Jake together. Hopefully, they will show up in the next book.

An Operative's Last Stand - Juno Rushdan (HI #2052 - Feb 2022)

Series: Fugitive Heroes: Topaz Unit (Book 4)

A kill squad is closing in…
Now this team leader must risk everything for answers
 
Barely escaping CIA mercenaries, ex-agent Hunter Wright is after the person he thinks targeted his ops team, Topaz, for treason. Deputy director Kelly Russell is still the one woman he can't resist, but she believes Hunter went rogue. Now she's his only shot at getting the answers they need. Can they trust each other enough to save Topaz -- and each other?
 
Terrific conclusion to the series. For the last eighteen months, the members of the Topaz Unit have been on the run. Accused of betraying their country for money, they know they are innocents of the charges and are desperate to clear their names. Meanwhile, the powers-that-be at the CIA have sent hit squad after hit squad to silence them. Hunter Wright, Topaz's team leader, has done his best to protect his teammates who have barely escaped their pursuers. All of them and their significant others have joined Hunter on his sanctuary island, where they decide it is time to return to the US and get the answers they need.
 
Two years earlier, Hunter and the team's handler, Kelly Russell, grew very close. After one passion-filled night, Kelly pulled back, insisting on returning to a professional relationship. Not long after that, Topaz Unit was sent on the mission that started their troubles. They suspected something was off but carried out their orders, only to discover that they had killed the wrong person. When they were declared traitors, Hunter believed that Kelly had set them up, and when he learned of her promotion, he was sure of it. In previous books, we have seen Kelly's determination to exterminate the team vehement in her characterization of them as traitors. Hunter is understandably hurt and angry that she could believe him capable of such heinous behavior.
 
Thanks to discovering a tracking device at the end of the previous book, the team knows their days on the island are numbered. As the story opens, they await the next attack. I was on the edge of my seat as they lay in wait, trap baited. I loved watching them kick butt while Kelly and the others followed the events in horrified disbelief. Kelly's frustration is palpable, and her frustration with her coworker is evident. That was my first inkling that everything might not be what it seemed. I loved seeing the team make a clean getaway, and advance their plans to discover the truth.
 
The story's suspense built from event to event, chapter to chapter, as the team grew closer to uncovering the truth. Hunter's first step was a confrontation with Kelly, and I loved how he set that up. Face-to-face for the first time since that fateful mission, their exchange was heartbreaking and satisfying. Though she was skeptical of Hunter's claims, he raised just enough doubt that she promised to look into it. Those inquiries stirred up a hornets' nest, and the team worked hard to protect themselves and, eventually, Kelly. Bombs, snipers, mass shootings, made for non-stop action as Hunter and Kelly raced to uncover the who and why of the set-up. Just when I thought I knew who was behind it, an unexpected twist proved me wrong. The final confrontation was a nail-biter with Kelly caught in the clutches of the mastermind. The motivations behind it all shocked me, and the steps taken to ensure success were horrifying. I was glued to the pages as Hunter, the other Topaz members, and some of John's SEAL friends arrived in time to save the day.
 
Much of the relationship between Hunter and Kelly happened off-page at the beginning of the book. Despite her being his boss, their time together deepened the attraction that grew between them. I was as frustrated as Hunter was at Kelly's lack of faith in Hunter's honor. I'm not sure I could be as forgiving as he was. I could feel Hunter's pain when he kidnapped Kelly and tortured her to get her to listen. Kelly's guilt was evident as she uncovered the manipulations that made her believe in Hunter's treachery. Once she saw the truth, she allowed herself to pursue her growing feelings for him. The epilogue was terrific with finding out the results of their work and seeing the happiness of the four couples. I loved the twist in the big moment between Hunter and Kelly. 

 
 

Alaskan Christmas Escape - Juno Rushdan (HI #2041 - Dec 2021)

Series: Fugitive Heroes: Topaz Unit (Book 2)

With a death squad in pursuit…
A fugitive needs the help of a wounded warrior.
 
An elite CIA kill squad has located hacker Zenobia Hanley's Alaska wilderness hideout. With commandos hot on Zee's heels, she's saved from capture by her neighbor John Lowry. Zee has kept her yearning for the SEAL, who has a disability, in check to shield him. But, despite her secrets, John's determined to protect Zee regardless of the risks. Because there's more at stake this Christmas than just their lives.
 
A fantastic book full of non-stop action, many twists and turns, and a terrific romance between two hurting people. Zee is the computer hacker member of Topaz Unit, a former CIA unit whose last mission didn't go as planned. It quickly became apparent that they were set up, and the only questions were who and why? To make matters worse, the CIA sent a hit squad after them, determined to stop them from asking questions. In this book, Zee has settled in a remote cabin in Alaska, where she keeps to herself. The only exception is the wary friendship she's built with her next-door neighbor, John.
 
John is a former Navy SEAL, injured in the line of duty, and medically retired. He has PTSD and prefers to live his life away from people. The Alaskan wilderness suits him perfectly. He first got to know Zee as he helped the city girl learn to deal with the Alaskan challenges. He senses that she has secrets, but he doesn't pry since he does too.
 
The story's suspense was outstanding and kept me hooked from beginning to end. Zee uses her hacking skills to search for what went wrong with Topaz Unit's last mission. As good as she is, a too-long dip into the CIA's system raised flags and gave away her location. The latest kill squad has an unexpected complication. The group leader also has personal reasons for wanting Zee dead, and nothing will stop him. His ruthlessness is evident the first time we see him and his horrific actions at the computer club. The intensity ramps up when John spots the squad as they arrive near Zee's cabin, warns her and immediately jumps in to help her escape. I was on the edge of my seat as I wondered how they would get away, but Zee's abilities and John's SEAL skills made it happen. Though Zee tried hard to push John away to protect him, including a harsh exchange of words, John refused to give up on her.
 
The action never lets up as Zee and John struggle to stay ahead of the kill squad. An added complication came when Zee insisted on retrieving her daughter, Olivia, from her school. The shocking revelation of Olivia's father's identity added to the tension of the pursuit. The twists, turns, and intensity of the killers' intent kept me glued to the pages as each confrontation increased the pressure. The final confrontation was a nail-biter as Zee faced off against her pursuer. The conclusion was not unexpected as Zee, John, and Olivia used team leader Hunter's "parachute" to get away. The epilogue indicates that a showdown is coming and that the team is ready to bring the fight to their accusers.
 
I enjoyed seeing the development of the relationship between Zee and John. After months of sharing dinners, watching movies, and just spending time together, their attraction continues to grow. Neither one does anything about it because they don't want to risk their friendship. When trouble comes, Zee tries to put distance between them to protect John from those who are after her. However, John refuses to be pushed aside. I loved his protectiveness and how he insisted on helping her. Once Zee accepted that he wasn't going anywhere, their partnership was fantastic. I loved seeing them trust each other enough to share their secrets and depend on each other to have their backs. Burned by a past relationship, Zee resists the feelings stirred up by John. I loved watching John's unwavering care begin to break down her walls. John's instant connection with Zee's daughter, Olivia, also went a long way toward helping Zee trust her feelings for him. I loved the epilogue and seeing how much closer John and Zee are. There's an adorable scene between John and Olivia, followed by an emotional one with Zee and John. 

A Bee in Her Bonnet - Sharon Buchbinder (CPC Publishing - Nov 2021)

Series: Cat's Paw Cove (Book 24)Not all that buzzes is a bee…
 
Elva Boyd, an extroverted elf, uses bees and honey to treat patients in pain. Art Klarastos, an introverted demi-god, beekeeper, and inventor is her best friend. When Elva’s beehives disappear, Art beelines to her to deliver the news. Distressed, Elva pleads for his assistance with the mystery of the missing boxes. Kit Kat, his matchmaking talking cat, makes a deal with Elva: Art will help her in exchange for a real date.
 
Art is mortified, but Elva agrees without hesitation. While they attempt to deduce why someone might want to steal her bees’ homes, a couple arrives and claims to be Elva’s long-lost parents. An orphan raised in Cat’s Paw Cove by her aunt and uncle, Elva is ecstatic. Suspicious of these unknown elves, Art shares his concerns—but Elva tunes out his buzzing.
 
When her parents declare they have come to take her home to Scotland for her contractually obligated wedding, Art is devastated. Will his best friend leave with her newfound family and soon-to-be-husband? Or will he be able to convince her that he is the beekeeper of her heart?
 
A fun novella that I read in one sitting. Elva is an elf who her aunt and uncle raised in Cat's Paw Cove after her parents disappeared. She's the only kid at the Feline Fine Retirement Home, which she describes as "like living with dozens of grandmothers and grandfathers." When she's ten years old, she meets ten-year-old Art, who has just arrived in town with his parents. They buy a home to use during the summers, and Art and Elva immediately become best friends. I loved that first meeting, with Art's astonishment at everything from Elva's pointy ears to the talking cats.
 
When Art was eighteen, he permanently moved to Cat's Paw Cove and set up his inventing business. Elva became a healing elf who uses bees and honey to treat her patients. Art is just as shy now as he was twenty years ago. He's in love with Elva but doesn't think she feels anything more than friendship for him. He's about to get a little help. When Elva's beehives are stolen from her yard, Art is the one she looks to for help. Art's feline companion, Kit Kat, tells her to go on a date with Art if she wants his help, while her cat, Romeo, mutters, "About time..." Art is shocked but thrilled when she agrees since he has no idea that she is in love with him too. Just as he's leaning in for a long-awaited kiss, they are interrupted.
 
At the door are two people claiming to be Elva's long-lost parents. Stunned but happy, Elva is full of questions. Art is skeptical and has reservations about this couple. I loved his protectiveness and how he watched out for Elva from the very beginning. Elva received another shock when her parents claimed that she is betrothed to Prince Scott and the wedding is in two weeks. I loved her reaction when she met Prince Scott, who turns out to be something of an over-age frat boy.
 
We quickly learn that things are not always what they seem. Something fishy is going on, and it seems to have something to do with the King of the Dark Elves. I was fascinated by the twists and turns and revelations as Art and Elva looked for the truth. I loved watching Elva's family and friends go all-in in protecting her while Art's Uncle Hermes looks into the missing hives and whether her parents are dead or not. Later on, combining Prince Scott and too many bottles of mead led to the whole thing falling apart. I loved watching everything unravel and laughed out loud at many parts.
 
I loved the ending. The truth is exposed, and Elva stands up for her choice of husband. I loved the surprise waiting for Elva after delivering some hives to some friends at the retirement home.

Code Name: Virgo - Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Publishing - Jan 2022)

Series: Zodiac Tactica;: Rescue Unit (Book 2)

My code name is Virgo. The stars say I’m practical, honest, stubborn as hell.
 
Guilty as charged.
 
Zodiac Tactical is the company that gave me a second chance. We guard, protect, rescue...eliminate the threat when nobody else can. And as a former SEAL, I’m good at those things. Good with weapons, good with missions.
 
But with people...not so good.
 
So when a gruesome enemy takes Bronwyn Rourke, one of Zodiac’s newest young recruits—with blue eyes that take up nearly her whole damn face—I shouldn’t take it personally. Shouldn’t allow her to consume my every thought and become my only mission.
 
They took her because they thought she was alone. Easy prey. That no one would fight for her.
 
They were wrong.
 
My code name is Virgo. And I will grind my enemy to dust to bring her home.
 
Yet another of the author's books that had me pulling an all-nighter. I really must learn to start these books earlier in the day. I know this, but somehow it doesn't stop me from reading as soon as possible. This is the second book in the Zodiac Tactical series, and much of it takes place concurrently with Code Name: Aries but from a different perspective. There are some overlapping scenes, but not many, and those don't feel repetitive.
 
The story starts with Sarge's first encounter with Bronwyn. He's a SEAL whose team just finished a mission and is on leave in Prague (terrific city - the descriptions took me back to my visits there). He spots Bronwyn, a talented pickpocket, as she works the square. He doesn't interfere until later when he rescues her from a disturbing situation. I loved Sarge's protectiveness and honorable nature, something Bronwyn had no experience with. The scene in his hotel room was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved the connection between them and how important that connection became. I ached for Bronwyn when something she said after leaving caused him harm and for Sarge, who believed she'd betrayed him. Despite the circumstances, neither one forgot the other.
 
Five years later (current day), Sarge is back in Prague and looking for Bronwyn. Nothing much has changed, but now Sarge works for Zodiac Tactical. This time when he encounters Bronwyn, he offers her the means to escape her current situation by recruiting her for Zodiac. When she shows up at their Paris location, he keeps a watchful but distant eye on her. When we see Bronwyn again, she is in the middle of a mission. I loved seeing her pride in her work, and how she overcame the temptation she felt at a crucial moment. Everything looks good as Bronwyn successfully completes her mission. But things go downhill fast when she arrives back at her hotel room and is drugged and taken.
 
When Sarge finds out that Bronwyn is missing, his protectiveness goes into overdrive. Hw leaves no stone unturned in his search for her. Even when others believe she left on her own, he doesn't give up. And when video shows up of Bronwyn participating in robberies and other illegal behavior, Sarge is the only one who believes that something is wrong. I loved his determination to find her and his confidence in her when he does. In the segments done from Bronwyn's point of view, we witness the devastating torture she experiences at the hands of Mosaic and the excruciatingly painful methods of mind control they use. I couldn't help but be amazed at her strength of will as she fought against the darkness. I loved how her connection with Sarge gave her the strength to endure and survive. Her mental conversations with him were often the only thing that kept her from going over the edge.
 
I ached for Sarge on those occasions he caught up with Bronwyn. He worked so hard to stop her without hurting her, but because of the brainwashing, Bronwyn didn't hold back, though she could never bring herself to kill him. The parallels and overlaps with Ian and Wavy's story helped build my anticipation for some of the things I knew were coming. I loved it when Sarge whisked Bronwyn away to the ranch to heal and recover. His patience and care were terrific. I hurt for Bronwyn, who believed that she was broken, no matter how often Sarge tried to tell her how amazing she was. The back and forth as various groups fought for possession of Bronwyn made me ache for everything she experienced.
 
I loved how Bronwyn's time with Jenna while Sarge was away allowed Bronwyn to push her brain for memories that Sarge held her back from. Bronwyn's determination to unlock the secrets shows how strong she is. Her horror at what she learned was tempered by knowing that she has information vital to stopping Mosaic.  I loved her plan, and though Sarge hated it, he had to admit it could work. I was glued to the pages (and wide awake at 5 am!) as they carried it out. Of course, there's frequently a monkey wrench thrown into the works during the process, and this was no exception. I loved watching Bronwyn face off against the one responsible for her troubles. Justice was served in the end.
 
During their time on the ranch, Bronwyn and Sarge had the chance to get to know each other. Because of their age difference, Sarge was cautious about how he treated her. It took a while for him to admit his feelings for her, though Bronwyn knew hers. I could feel her frustration at times as he kept that bit of distance between them. I loved when she finally broke through his control, and they experienced what was meant to be. The epilogue was fantastic.
 
I can't wait for the next Zodiac book, as well as the Resting Warrior Ranch series. 

Desperate Ransom - Cindy Dees (HRS #2155 - Nov 2021)

Series: Colton 911: Chicago (Book 10)

They're about to live through every parent's worst nightmare…
 
Myles Colton's marriage is in trouble the moment he takes on a case that puts him in harm's way -- yet again. This time, though, it's his wife, Faith, and their son who become targets. When the little boy is kidnapped, Myles will stop at nothing to bring his child home safe. But is there anything he can do to repair his shattered family?
 
A gripping story that I could not put down. Unlike most romances, here we have a couple that is already married. Myles and Faith have known each other since sixth grade and have been a couple since eighth grade. They've been married for several years and have a four-year-old son, Jack. Faith is a teacher who took time off after Jack was born but is ready to go back to work. Myles is an up-and-coming lawyer with a large law firm. He left his job as a city prosecutor after too many run-ins with disgruntled criminals and took a safer position with a firm that deals with liability cases. However, the group he is working against right now is known for its intimidation techniques.
 
Myles and Faith's marriage is on shaky ground. For the past several years, Myles has worked very long hours to get ahead, leaving Faith feeling like a single parent. As they head out for a rare date night, the tension between them is palpable. As they near the restaurant, a hit-and-run driver T-bones their car. Furious when she discovers the collision may directly result from the case Myles is working on, Faith rips into Myles. Fearful for his family's safety, Myles arranges security for them, basically putting them in lockdown until his case is over. The strain between Myles and Faith continues to grow. I ached for both of them. Myles is doing what he thinks is necessary to provide for his family, but all Faith can feel is neglect and loneliness. Things begin to look up a little when the case is over. Some sound advice from his stepfather opens Myles's eyes to his neglect of Faith, and I loved seeing him take full advantage of what he learned. The scenes from their vacation were terrific, and I could feel them begin to reconnect and share their feelings, dreams, and expectations.
 
Just as things seem to be looking up for Myles and Faith, Faith's fears return when she notices someone watching her and Jack. Myles's reaction is immediate and protective, but Faith can't let go of her fear. I ached for Myles, who bore the brunt of her fear-induced anger. Their worst fears come to pass when Jack is kidnapped. While the local police department and the FBI work to find Jack, Myles and Faith must deal with the effects of the emotional storm. I hurt for Myles and Faith. Myles blames himself and desperately needs to feel Faith's support, but all she can do is blame him. I was so happy to see his cousin Simone, the psychologist, explain what was happening with Faith, enabling Myles to deal with her over-the-top emotions and give her the support she needed.
 
When it became clear that their first suspicions were wrong (I loved the scene at the jail with Anarchy Ink's leader), the effect on Faith was almost immediate. I loved seeing her change and how she and Myles began to support each other. I liked seeing them finally listen to one another when they talked and look to a better future for their family.
 
Meanwhile, the search for Jack continued. The intensity ramped up when a ransom call came in. It was fascinating to see the profiler work and get a sense of the person they were dealing with. The ransom amount immediately raised my suspicions on who was behind the kidnapping. I loved how the entire family came together to help, from agreeing to pool their resources to assemble the ransom to the united front they showed at the press conference. I laughed out loud when Lila and Carter devised the perfect ransom, and Myles used his talents to sell the kidnapper on it. I was on the edge of my seat during the ransom delivery and what happened around it. While Jack was safely recovered, there are still unanswered questions carried over into the next book. 

Lord Grantwell's Christmas Wish - Diane Gaston (HH #1607 - Oct 2021)

Series: Captains of Waterloo (Book 2)

He wished to never see her again
Now he wishes she'll stay…
 
Lord Grantwell hasn't seen Lillian Pearson since she betrayed him years ago. So when she arrives on his doorstep looking for sanctuary, he's not inclined to offer it! But when the two orphaned children in his care ask if she can stay for Christmas, how can he refuse? Grant and Lillian discover an intense attraction still simmers between them, and Grant starts to wonder if he has done her a grave injustice…
 
Excellent second chance love story. Grant, who we first met in Her Gallant Captain at Waterloo as Rhys's best friend, returned to England after the death of his brother. With Rhys as his estate manager, Grant slowly settles into his new role as Viscount Grantwell, including becoming the guardian of two young children, William and Anna. As the book opens, the butler announces a woman there for the governess position. He is shocked to see Lillian, the woman who'd betrayed him years earlier in Portugal.
 
Lillian is there for sanctuary, not employment. Accused of murdering her Portuguese husband, she is fleeing her vengeful brother-in-law. Out of money and out of options, she desperately hopes Grant will hide her for a short time, despite how they parted.
 
The intensity of the situation immediately sucked me into the story. Grant's renewed feelings of anger and betrayal, Lillian's feelings of desperation and hope, and the presence of a snowstorm combined into an emotional opening. Seeing Lillian again brought everything back to Grant, and he wanted to toss her right back out of the door. But despite those feelings, he couldn’t bring himself to do that, so he offered to let her stay until the roads cleared. At the same time he remembers her betrayal, he also remembers the good times together, creating an internal struggle. Lillian can't believe that Grant still believes her capable of betraying him and their country. Nothing said then or now convinces him that he's wrong. But she's grateful for refuge from the storm and the chance to evade her pursuers. She'll worry about the next step when the storm is over.
 
When Lillian encounters the children on her way to her room, they immediately take to each other. Utterly bewildered on what to do with them, Grant willingly turns their care over to Lillian. Grant finds himself drawn into Lillian's attempts to give the children a Christmas as they've never had before. The more time he spends with her, the harder it is to remember her betrayal. I loved seeing Grant's anger start to fade as he saw Lillian's good-hearted attempts to help the children. I enjoyed seeing the return of their former ease with each other, though I wanted to shake Grant every time he reminded himself of the past. Another thing that hadn't changed was the attraction that still burned between them, creating another layer of complications.
 
The suspense created by Lillian's pursuers hovered in the background throughout the book as she worried about them finding her. Between the question of who really killed Lillian's husband and what actually happened that day back in Portugal, I was anxious to see if the truth would be revealed. While the truth about the murder turned out to be no surprise at all, I didn't see the resolution of the spying charge coming. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I loved the children's part in the solution. I would have liked to see a little groveling on Grant's part for his lack of faith in Lillian. The epilogue was fantastic. I loved seeing what a difference a year made in their lives.
 
One of the things I enjoyed was the inclusion of the era's Christmas traditions. Many of them still exist in one form or another today, and I liked seeing them in context. I loved how the author used those traditions to bring four hurting and lonely people together. I would like to have learned more about the children's background and why they were mistreated by those who should have loved them.
 
The secondary characters were terrific. From the servants to Rhys and Helene, everyone had unique personalities and roles. I had to laugh at the interplay between the cook and Grant over their memories of him as a boy. I also enjoyed seeing Rhys point out that Grant behaved like a man in love, and Helene reach out in friendship to Lillian.

New Year Kiss with His Cinderella - Annie O'Neil (HMED #1219 - Jan 2022)

Series: Nashville ER (Book 1)

From a midnight kiss…
…to a reunion in the ER!
 
When Dr. Carter shares a New Year's kiss with a captivating stranger, he doesn't expect a reunion. Then he walks into Saint Dolores's ER the very next day…and discovers she's his new colleague! Awkwardly, their smoking-hot attraction hasn't gone away! But for Carter, life has meant staying mobile, and he can't simply lay down roots. Yet there's something about Nurse Avery and Nashville that's starting to really feel like home…
 
An emotional story that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I loved the first meeting between Carter and Avery. It was New Year's Eve, and she was riding a mechanical bull, trying to win the cash prize. One sight of the handsome stranger intently focused on her, and she lost her concentration and her seat. I loved Carter's offer to win it for her and his understanding of her reaction. In the end, Avery succeeded, and they shared an intense midnight kiss. Then Avery walked away, never expecting to see him again.
 
Fate, of course, had other plans. The next day Avery, a nurse practitioner at Nashville's busy ER, gets a shock during the welcoming of new hires. One of them is Dr. Carter Booth, the sexy stranger from the night before. The tension between them is off the charts as Avery gives Carter a tour and assists with his first couple of cases. It isn't long before they have to admit there is something between them
 
I loved seeing the relationship develop between Carter and Avery. It starts as a no-strings fling between friends. Carter is upfront about his inability/unwillingness to do any long-term commitments. His younger sister is in prison and also suffers from a chronic disease. She frequently gets in trouble and is moved to another prison, and Carter follows along to the closest hospital. She is the only family he has, and his protectiveness runs deep. Avery also avoids relationships. She still grieves the death of her sister two years earlier. She has locked up her emotions between her grief and being dumped in her last relationship. But as the weeks go on and they spend time together, something more than attraction builds between them. I loved seeing them open up and share things they'd never told anyone else. The support and understanding they have for each other are fantastic.
 
When an incident at the hospital breaks the walls Avery built around her emotions, Carter was there to pick up the pieces. I loved how he helped her rediscover her music and the big decision she made because of it. Then a medical crisis involving Carter's sister causes him to pull away from Avery. I wanted to shake him for his unkind words before walking out and ached for Avery and her heartbreak. I loved the lecture he got from his sister, who'd gone through some changes in her own outlook, and called him an idiot for walking away from Avery. It was an eye-opening experience for Carter, and I loved its effect on him. His big moment at the end was sweet and emotional.
 
As is usual with Harlequin's Medical line, a few medical issues played significant parts in the story. They were well done without overshadowing the romance. The detail was sufficient for the seriousness of the scene without feeling like I was reading a textbook. I always seem to learn something new from one of these books.

The Midwife's Miracle Twins - Caroline Anderson (HMED #1227 - Feb 2022)

Series: Yoxburgh Park Hospital (Book 14)

Two miraculous heartbeats will change the midwife's life!
 
Special delivery…
…for the midwife!
 
Midwife Georgie loves her job. But the belief that she'll never hold a baby of her own makes her life on the maternity ward bittersweet. So, while the arrival of obstetrician Dan is a distraction Georgie isn't looking for…it's exactly the distraction she needs. After a difficult delivery, they find comfort in each other's arms. Yet just as they try to dial their relationship back to purely professional, Georgie discovers the incredible consequences of their night!
 
Terrific and emotional book with two people who are hurting due to baby issues. Georgie is a midwife who loves her job but struggles with infertility, which drove her and her partner apart. Every baby she helps into the world is a joy but also a painful reminder of what she'll never have. The book opens as she faces a complicated case. The department's new consultant joins her to save mother and child, though not without a rocky start between them. Relief over a successful birth has them taking comfort in a passionate night together, followed by regrets over what they did. They agree to return to a professional relationship.
 
Though Dan and Georgie try to stick to their intentions, they find a deep friendship developing between them. Shared meals and easy conversation create a connection neither can deny. They also note that their attraction is still there, though neither wants a relationship. Resistance isn't easy, but they manage. Then Georgie found herself unexpectedly pregnant. Shocked but thrilled to have her dream come true, she wastes no time telling Dan of his impending fatherhood. I ached for Dan, for whom the news brought up terrible memories. During medical school, his girlfriend became pregnant. In a tragic series of events, both she and the baby die, and Dan blames himself. Being responsible for another pregnancy is his worst nightmare.
 
Once the initial shock is past, Dan and Georgie must learn to work together. Dan is very protective of her, to the point of "helicoptering" at times. Georgie is very independent and often butts heads with Dan over his hovering. I loved their honesty in communicating their feelings and expectations, preventing miscommunications and resentment. When Georgie discovered she was having twins, everything changed. I loved seeing her learn to accept and appreciate Dan's help, while Dan learned to trust Georgie's instincts and judgment. Over the following months, I loved seeing them grow closer. Georgie was the first to suspect her feelings, while Dan tried to ignore his for a long time.
 
As the pregnancy progressed, complications arose. I ached for Georgie and Dan, whose fears were never far from their minds. I loved the close-knit Labor and Delivery unit and how they all watched out for Georgie. There's a great scene where Dan, who serves as a mentor for a new young doctor, Patrick, is helped through his own crisis by that same doctor. I was on the edge of my seat as they fought for the lives of the babies. I loved the ending and seeing how Georgie and Dan finally admitted their feelings for each other.
 
The medical details used in the story happen organically, imparting information without me feeling like I'm sitting in a class. I loved the feeling of realism they added and how the worry helped bring Dan and Georgie closer together. I also loved seeing characters from earlier books in the series. It's always good to catch up with previous couples.

Disavowed in Wyoming - Juno Rushdan (HI #2046 - Jan 2022)

Series: Fugitive Heroes: Topaz Unit (Book 3)

He'll put his own life on any line
If it means keeping her away from the danger stalking him
 
Fleeing from a CIA kill squad, former operative Dean Delgado is hiding out back in Wyoming, where the terrain -- and the people -- are all too familiar. He befriends veterinarian Kate Sawyer while working undercover -- the woman he was once forced to leave behind. But when an emergency call brings Kate under fire, Dean must blow his cover to save her. Now, despite the risks to his own life, protecting Kate is the only mission that matters.
 
Wow-what a rollercoaster of a ride this book was. The action began almost immediately and didn't let up even at the end. The story opens as Kate, a veterinarian with a mobile clinic takes a late-night call. But instead of a client with a sick animal, her caller is a desperate young woman in labor and standing outside Kate's apartment. When the terrified mother-to-be refuses to allow an ambulance to be called, Kate realizes she'll have to deliver the baby herself. With the help of the elderly bartender, DJ, from the bar under her apartment, Kate gets Cheryl into her mobile clinic with minutes to spare. But as Kate is in mid-delivery, two gun-wielding men burst in, threatening their lives, and demanding to take Cheryl and the baby.  In the first of many surprises that night, the elderly DJ takes out one gunman and chases down the other.
 
Unknown to Kate, DJ is not precisely what he seems. Dean Delgado, a native of Laramie and her high school boyfriend, walked away when they were seventeen without a word to anyone. Since then, he lived on the streets, spent time as a Marine, then joined the CIA, where he was a member of Topaz Unit, an assassination squad. When his team's last mission went horribly wrong, they found themselves the targets of a CIA kill squad. A master of disguises, Dean returned to Laramie, where he's lived undercover for seven months, always looking over his shoulder. When he breaks cover to help Kate, he knows he'll have to leave again, but how can he go when she's in danger?
 
I loved the reunion between Dean and Kate. While grateful for his help, the last thing she wants is to have Dean stirring up old feelings. I loved how she ripped into him for the way he left, his selfishness in not getting in touch, and his current plan to disappear again. His explanation doesn't wholly convince her of the danger he's in, and she wants him to stay and help her figure out what was going on with Cheryl. Dean attempts to persuade her to leave it alone, as he suspects something terrible is going on, and he wants her to be safe. Of course, she refuses to back down, and though Dean leaves, his guilty conscience sends him right back - just in time to rescue Kate again.
 
I could not put the book down as Dean and Kate investigated what Cheryl was involved in. Strange numbers found on a thumb drive led them to a dark underbelly in their small town and put both in further danger. I loved Dean's actions, proving he knew the right thing to do, but it also left Kate vulnerable. An unforeseen twist put her at the mercy of a dangerous man, leaving Dean to figure out how to save her. Help came from an unexpected source, and though Dean is wary, he can't turn it down. The rescue scene was a nail-biter, but their troubles aren't over yet.
 
At the same time, all of this is going on, the kill squad finally got the break they needed to locate Dean. A disturbing scene at CIA headquarters shows a ruthlessness on the part of several people to eliminate Dean and the rest of his team. They deploy a "secret weapon" to get their information while reiterating their expectations. I was especially intrigued by the news about Topaz Unit's former boss and can't wait to see what comes of that. I was on the edge of my seat as the killers came closer to Dean and Kate. The final confrontation was heartbreaking, but I hold out hope that some good may come of it.
 
I loved seeing the rekindling of the relationship between Dean and Kate. Neither had forgotten each other in the fifteen years they'd been apart, and it didn't take long for their feelings to resurface. I liked watching them talk about what happened back then, the repercussions for everyone involved, and the effects that still linger in their lives. Kate's trust issues have impacted attempted relationships in ways she only just begins to understand. Dean has trouble believing he deserves anything good in his life. As they work their way toward safety and sanctuary, they have some time to get to know each other again.
 
The epilogue was excellent, and I loved catching up with the people from the first two books. But an unpleasant surprise arrives along with Dean and Kate and serves as a lead-in for the next book. I can't wait to finally find out the truth of what happened with that failed operation and the who/what/why behind the attacks.