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Cutter's Code #1

Operation Midnight

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Being spirited away—with her dog, Cutter—by armed men in a black helicopter is the last thing Hayley Cole ever expects. And why is her usually savvy dog so friendly toward their lean, dark-haired leader? She's determined to escape. Unfortunately, Quinn with his intense, searching gaze is always three steps ahead—and much, much too close….For Quinn Foxworth, control equals safety. Taking Hayley is the only way his undercover witness-protection team can protect her and their client. But convincing her he's one of the good guys is easier than guarding himself from her innocent courage. And with danger closing in, can he risk letting Hayley into his heart for good?

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

90 people are currently reading
278 people want to read

About the author

Justine Davis

263 books213 followers
Author biographies are supposed to give you all those statistics, books written, awards won, etc. and I will, I promise...but first let me tell you about this ornery little tomboy (back then, the boys had all the fun...) who was always the one to make up the stories the neighborhood kids would "play". For those who came of age in the computer game era, this is something that was done usually in the backyard, by any number of summer-bored children, with props where appropriate. (Did you know a 55 gallon drum tied to a picnic bench makes a very cool horse?) It wasn't until much later that this tomboy realized two things: A) not everyone made up stories in their heads all the time, and B) in real life, the boys that had already had all the fun now seemed to always be winning.

But I digress. I was born on a farm down in Iowa....well, not quite, but close; Boone, Iowa is in the middle of farm country, but I arrived at a hospital. In a snow storm. Make that a blizzard. My sister tells me she knew my destiny when I was very young, because when I first saw the Disney classic Old Yeller, I was apparently so upset that I promptly went home and rewrote the story. In my version, the dog lived, of course. Should have been a clue.

Possibly in response to that blizzard I was born in, I've been a West Coaster since before I was a year old, and intend to stay that way. I have a history of staying. I started my first full time job right out of school (well, there was a very brief sojourn at a place where they made, among other things, burial vaults, but I prefer not to recall that one...) and stayed for twenty-one years. I've been married to the same wonderful guy for going on two decades now. We lived in our last house for seventeen years. (I won't even mention how many dumpsters we filled moving after that long....)

Readers seem as fascinated by my first career as they are with my writing. My time in law enforcement was many things, exciting, nerve wracking, and irritating, but most importantly never, ever boring. It was fascinating enough that I didn't think about writing seriously for several years. I kept a journal, and wrote long letters, collected quotes, mentally rewrote movies, and still made up those stories in my head, but never dreamed of actually writing for publication. I was having too much fun helping to catch bad guys, and being continually amazed at the situations people get themselves into. And eventually I walked away with a wealth of background and story ideas, and knowing some truly great people who work very hard to keep all of us safe. I'm proud to have been one of them, and I'm very aware that I have had the great good fortune of having had two jobs in my life that I love. Many people don't get even one.

But now that I'm in the delicious position of being able to make a living telling those stories in my head, I promise my readers two things: A) I'm staying--I'll keep writing as long as you keep reading, and B) in my stories, the girl--tomboy or not--always wins!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

And now, the official stats:

Justine Dare Davis sold her first book in 1989, and followed that up with the sale of nineteen novels in less than two years. Her first four books were published in 1991, and she saw all reach the finals for either the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award or the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA Award. She has since won the RITA award four times, along with several Reviewer's Choice awards and three Career Achievement awards from Romantic Times. At the 1998 national conference, Justine was inducted into the RWA Hall of Fame, making her one of a very select group of just eight writers. She also had four titles on the Romantic Times "Top 200 of All Time" list. Her sales now total more than 45, and her books have appeared regularly on best seller lists, including the USA Today list. She has been featured in several local newspapers and nationwide by Associated Press, has appeared on CN

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5 stars
252 (53%)
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141 (29%)
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59 (12%)
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16 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Brenda.
246 reviews47 followers
October 19, 2017
I have to say those who like angsty and emotional romances may not like this book. It's mainly for those who like dogs, suspense, action with romance thrown in. Although the sexual chemistry between Quinn & Hayley was strikingly apparent, the kisses and sex mostly takes place toward the end, the latter not too detailed.

I, however, enjoyed the book. I love dogs and this entire wonderful series of Justine Davies was about Cutter, an awesome dog, who behaved almost like a human, drawing the most unlikely couples together with his extra-sensory instincts and making them fall in love with each other. He just appeared on Hayley's doorstep when she was mourning the death of her mother, for whom she'd given up everything for three years to tend to her as she battled with her disease. And, since no one came forward to claim him, he stayed on as Hayley's pet.

Quinn was an action oriented, ex-military, who runs into Hayley and her big, bear-like dog while he was on a secret night mission to airlift Hayley's neighbour. Since the dog, totally enamoured by Quinn, wouldn't leave his side, Quinn had no option but to kidnap both the dog and his spirited owner. It was a frightening experience for Hayley, a simple, girl-next door, to find herself and her dog dumped into the helicopter by the tall, brooding intimidating man and later confined with her neighbour and four strangers --Quinn and his team of men, Rafer, Liam and Teague-- in the middle of nowhere. Fear made her angry and snappy toward Quinn. He thought of her as a glitch in his smooth operation, a persistent gnat. I enjoyed the witty quips and banter between the two of them.

“Don’t like snakes?” Quinn asked.
Did the man never miss anything? “I’m talking to you, aren’t I?” she snapped.
Liam let out a whoop of laughter. Quinn gave him a sour look.
“She’s definitely all yours,” he muttered, and walked away.

She blinked. “You’re cooking breakfast for everybody?”
“Everybody takes their turn.”
“Even you?”
He lifted a brow. “You’d rather I assigned it to you?”
“Depends. Any rat poison around?”

Yet, no matter how much the two bantered, they couldn't help feel attracted to each other. Both, found themselves thinking more about the other than their present situation.

Instead of thinking about whether Quinn was as aware of her as a woman as she was him as a man she should be worried about staying alive. She should be worried about what was going on, about the story behind the man hidden behind that closed bedroom door. She should be worried about escaping all this somehow, no matter that she had no idea where she was except that it was a long way from any outpost of real civilization. Instead she was letting herself be lulled, convinced they really weren’t bad guys, lulled by the routine the days had fallen into, fascinated by Liam’s seeming boy-next-door charm, by Teague’s polite, military demeanor and his thoughtfulness in picking up things for Cutter on his supply run. She was even drawn, in a way, by Rafer ’s haunted, sometimes pained determination. But mostly she was captivated by the cool efficiency and rigid control—most of the time—of their boss. Not to mention that one glance from those eyes made her heart pound. Yeah, she was the perfect prisoner, wasn’t she? she thought, unleashing the full force of her sarcasm on herself. She’d never felt so tangled, so confused, so like she was going to fly apart at any moment.

It irked Hayley that the close-mouthed Quinn wouldn't say anything about his mission to her, nor did he allow her neighbour or anyone in his team to say anything. She had only Cutter's instincts to sense they were the good guys and Cutter happily followed Quinn everywhere that times Hayley felt jealous of the two of them. It was as if Cutter had found a kindred spirit in Quinn. Quinn too was bemused by the dog's adoration of him and uncanny understanding of human thoughts especially his, also how he drove right into the action, alerting Quinn and his men about the lurking danger. Both, man and dog had bonded so strongly that they ended up risking their lives and taking a bullet to save each other and the woman special to them both, Hayley. “My two wounded warriors,” Hayley fondly called them.

Hayley, herself, was absolutely heroic in the face of danger. Even with no military experience she was sharp and alert and helped Quinn and Cutter fight the invaders.

She was a good match for Quinn, who'd already been divorced because his ex-wife didn't understand that his job constantly needed him. Which is why, when it was all over, he was ready to let Hayley to go, even though very reluctantly. But, now that Hayley found her man, she wasn't going to let go of him. Loved the end scene with both of them curled up in bed and so caught up into each that they were late to pick up Cutter.

But, smug Cutter didn't mind. After all it was always his intention to bring together the two humans he adored the most.

And, I know in the following books of the series, he'll be finding many lost souls like Hayley and Quinn and bringing them romantically together.
It was a very enjoyable read. Not to be missed.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,794 reviews123 followers
March 4, 2012
Good book. When Hayley was taken, she was naturally afraid of what was going on. I really liked the way she kept pretty calm through the whole thing. She tried very hard to find out what was going on, and ended up being friendly with all the guys except Quinn. Quinn is very intense, and as leader doesn't give up any information. He does find himself enjoying Hayley's company, which is unique itself. I liked the way her attitude and conversation would amuse him, which startled him because it so rarely happened. I also liked the way Hayley jumped in and helped during the two attacks. I loved the dog -- he is so cool with the way he took to Quinn and helped the team with their mission. I am really looking forward to seeing more of him and also the rest of the team.
Profile Image for Miki.
1,016 reviews41 followers
August 30, 2015
I loved this one; really I’m fond of Justine Davis’ books. Cutter is wonderful, intelligent and so funny…even better ^^ Belgian, I was imagining that and when I’ve read in I was just even more immersed in it that before.
The suspense is high because you only get answer in the two last chapters but it’s not bothering at all. You think about several things while reading but theses answers while very important and interesting stay behind the secret and mystery of Cutter and the romance that’s building. I was totally hooked on this book.

Hayley is a strong heroine, stronger that even she know and giving her background that perfectly understandable. I loved her loyalty to Cutter and how she was a bit jealous of the way he acts with Quinn. I could recognize myself in her. How wouldn’t want a dog like him and with the man added it’s even better.

Quinn is the boss of a elite squad, all members except one are from the military, that act when there aren’t any others options. He is loyal, has a lot of honour and he is very good to his men. I loved the way he doesn’t act superior and can put them before his comfort. (A true alpha^^;;). He kidnapped Hayley without thinking and while he regrets it , he can’t help to feel attracted to her as she fight him while afraid, push his buttons and keep asking questions. Since he doesn’t like to feel destabilised he fight back by threatening, being sarcastic and such.
The others members of the squad aren’t left all, all of them have a speciality and they do their job very well. I love Liam and Teague. Rafter isn’t bad but he is more secret so for me it was a bit more difficult to appreciate him.

Now, I loved this book to the end but I can’t help to ask myself if is going to stay a stand alone or be the first of a series. I sent an email to the author and I received an answer: it’s the first book of the new series called Cutter’s Code. Why did I think about that? The story is finished except for one detail. You can stop at that and imagine what will happen, let your imagination wander or that could receive a answer in a next book starting off where this one stop. You are happy either way. Justine Davis did a great job to make you feel at ease in any case.

To recommend to the fan of romance slowly building and action, secret, suspense with the military touch that make it so much more believable.
Profile Image for Kathy B. (NE).
115 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2012
I would give this book 10 stars if I could. I absolutely could not put it down. Cutter, the dog, was the star of the book, but the H/h were first rate, too. There will be more in the Cutter's Code series, and I'll be very eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Profile Image for Nancy.
2,536 reviews61 followers
November 26, 2023
This was disappointing. It was such a slow read for me and I didn’t really believe in the romance.
I love this Cutter series .. so had high expectations for this first book.
3 stars bumped up to 4 .. because after all we are introduced to Cutter ! :)
2nd story in a combo. Quinn and Hayley
Profile Image for Teri-K.
2,482 reviews53 followers
September 2, 2024
I like this series, but personally I wish there was more plot and less "Man, is he/she hot!" lol Still, having read and enjoyed some of the later books, it was nice to back up and see where it all started.
Profile Image for Sara.
321 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2021
Amazing book

I absolutely loved the serious high anxiety thriller nature of this book balanced out with the quirky super intelligent dog. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Jeriann Fisher.
763 reviews
July 27, 2021
A Terrific Suspenseful Romance

Hayley and Quinn discover they're pretty perfect for each other, with the help if a truly brilliant dog. I enjoyed this.
Profile Image for Monae Doyle.
1,435 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2024
This book had action, suspense and a little romance mixed in.

This story centers around a guy named Quinn Foxworth. He has an undercover witness protection team. Him and his team have to go pick up this witness that will testify against a huge drug cartel. The witness lives next door to a young woman named Hayley Cole. She has a very smart dog 🐕 named Cutter. Cutter one night sees someone that he goes after. Hayley goes after him to stop him. Hayley is taken away along with her neighbor and her dog Cutter in the middle of the night in a black helicopter. Hayley thought that men in black outfits and black helicopters were a myth until she gets taken in one. She ends up meeting the leader of the group Quinn who is quite intense and not much of a talker. She doesn’t know what to think of Quinn and his men. Cutter seems to take a liking to Cutter. She begins to leave the room ahead of is being held in by the guys. She begins to meet some of the guys on his team including Quinn. Quinn starts to wonder about Cutter and the woman that they took with them. Hayley starts getting curious about Quinn and his team. She also starts to develop feelings for Quinn. Bad guys come after Quinn and his team. Quinn and Hayley start to have some time alone together and yes they end up falling for each other. I liked this story and the romance wasn’t spicy but it was a nice part of the story. I liked reading this book.
Profile Image for Kathy.
547 reviews6 followers
July 15, 2023
Hayley Cole had spent the past two years taking care of her Mother who had just recently died with cancer. She and Cutter, her dog, were doing just fine until the night a large black helicopter landed in her neighbors back yard. What was even more bizarre was she and Cutter were in the machine with Vincent, her neighbor, and a crew she knew was very, very dangerous. Upon landing things began to get even more weird and the mysterious leader of this crew was unpleasant at times but also was very handsome. Read the account of the week that follows and how it ends. Her life would never be the same.
121 reviews4 followers
September 26, 2019
If you are looking for a spellbinding book with mystery, intrigue and a bit of romance you need to read Operation Midnight by Justine Davis. It’s the first in her Cutters Code series and you will love Cutter. He is amazing. The introduction and development of the characters was well done, the storyline flowed well and the plot will keep you guessing. This book is a real page turner and I really want to read the rest of this series, as well as the other books by this author.
Profile Image for Julia.
194 reviews3 followers
March 4, 2022
This series is charming. The stories are good - perhaps bit thin if you look too closely, but for those willing to suspend disbelief a bit they make terrific beach-reads. The stories are suspenseful, the cast of characters is solid, and the cause they embrace is one we can all relate to. Cutter is brilliant, a truly fun and whimsical addition to the suspenseful stories. His mystically good canine perception speaks to those of us who have pets who seem to “get it” with nothing more to guide them than their nose and intuition.
3 reviews
January 12, 2024
Suspense keeps attention

This book keeps the reader’s attention. However, the beginning moves somewhat slowly in regard to Haley’s character. Much more developed at the latter part of story. The story of Cutter is very intriguing, remaining an unknown which is great for this story and any sequels.
1 review
May 5, 2020
Cutter is awesome. And I'm a cat person, so me loving a dog lets you know how good he is.

Great action, excellent blend of teamwork and friendship, leaves you looking forward to the next book. And did I mention Cutter is awesome?
Profile Image for Bea Tea.
1,155 reviews
September 21, 2022
Pretty fun actiony adventure, veeeerry low steam as to be almost closed door which was a bit of a let down hence only 4 stars. The dog was OK, I've never been a fan of insanely clever dogs in romance, I prefere them dumb and destructive.
1 review
February 10, 2024
I fell in love with Cutter's Code book series! When reading I can actually picture things in my head like a movie playing in my mind with this series! Thank you Ms. Davis your an awesome amazing writer!
Profile Image for Rebecca Delio.
1,116 reviews5 followers
November 25, 2020
Wonderful Story

I loved Cutter, that is some dog. I have now read this story three times and I loved it all three times......
184 reviews
February 18, 2024
So So

The best part of this book is the beginning and the end. The middle was a lot of running around and nothing happening. It was hard to understand what was going on.
2,323 reviews38 followers
April 22, 2013
Cutter's Code book 1

I had read Operation blind Date which is a Cutter's Code book 3 I believe. I enjoyed it and wanted to read more of the Cutter code series so I bought the first book of the series. I was not disappointed in it and still would love to read more. I know that their is at least one other out their that I can read right away.

The suspense of who or what Quinn is for me not their because I read book 3 first. I like the plot. The characters. I really like Cutter he is a dog. A very smart dog.

Cutter chased into the woods and Hayley chased after him. He had been uneasy since a helicopter flew over her home awhile ago. Hayley and Cutter were now on her neighbor's property and she sees the helicopter with no markings on it. She has only seen her neighbor twice before. She see's him being guided out of his house into the chopper by a guy wearing a gun. Then a third man comes out and Cutter runs up to him like a lost friend.

Quinn takes out his gun and Hayley runs out to save her dog. Cutter won't come to her and she tries to leave and hopes he comes with her. Quinn picks up Hayley and sticks her into the helicopter and than picks up her dog too. Then gets in and the helicopter lifts up.

Quinn makes it clear that if she won't behave the dog will go out of the chopper. They fly for hours than refuel and take off for more hours. Hayley has no idea where they are or why. They finally stop at a run down cabin all by itself. Their are four guards and her neighbor. She is not allowed to talk to her neighbor. More threats against Cutter for her to behave.

Cutter gets to go out for patrols and gains the men's respect. He warns Rafe about a rattlesnake he almost steps on. He also finds old paw prints of a big animal. No one can sneak up on them with Cutter around.

Lots of action, drama pretty clean read. Their is one love scene but not graphic. So now I have read two of this series it will be one I will look forward to reading again.
Publisher: Harlequin Romantic Suspense (March 1, 2012) 217 pages ISBN: 0373277652
Profile Image for Paula Legate.
Author 17 books25 followers
February 22, 2024
If you’re a dog lover, you’ll love this book. Hayley was chasing after her dog Cutter when a helicopter landed at her neighbor’s house. Before Hayley knew what was going on, she and her dog was thrown into the helicopter. I loved how calm she remained. She was always planning and asking questions. She wanted to know if the team that had taken her were the good guys, or the bad ones. Her dog followed Quinn around like he was his second master. I think her dog was playing match maker, lol. This book had parts that made me laugh. It also had action, suspense, and romance. Hayley herself was no push over, or damsel in destress. When the chips were down, she didn’t hesitate to pick up a gun and start shooting to protect her dog. I loved this book. This is an awesome series.
Profile Image for Lynn.
3,045 reviews82 followers
February 18, 2016
This was a suspenseful, fast quick read --- read it in less than 8 hours. Adored her preface with her regards to wonderful dogs – and Cutter was more than wonderful as the people who kidnapped her and her dog…enough suspense that couldn’t put it down and didn’t want to – glad I won a whole of six of this series and can start right in on the next one! GREAT SERIES! Terrific read!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
497 reviews
February 14, 2015
I got the impression this was the first of a series. I hope so because a lot of interesting things were just kind of thrown in and never fleshed out. Really enjoyed it for the light fluffy read it was.
Profile Image for April Blaine.
31 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2015
Still just as exciting and fun to read as when I first read years ago. With a new one coming out soon, it was time to brush up on the background. Loved Hailey and Quinn. Even cat lovers would adore Cutter. I do.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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