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When the Mission Ends #1
Operation: Endgame
It’s been six months.
Six months since Jake Madsen let Chris Robertson die.
Six months since the passion between Jake and Cassie, Chris’ sister, stepped over the line.
But now Cassie’s being stalked and it’s time for Jake to swallow his guilt, grief, and lust so he can save her life, even if it’s a life without him. He owes it to his dead friend and he owes it to Cassie. He’s fallen in love with her, but she doesn’t have to know that for him to keep her safe.
Six months since Jake Madsen let Chris Robertson die.
Six months since the passion between Jake and Cassie, Chris’ sister, stepped over the line.
But now Cassie’s being stalked and it’s time for Jake to swallow his guilt, grief, and lust so he can save her life, even if it’s a life without him. He owes it to his dead friend and he owes it to Cassie. He’s fallen in love with her, but she doesn’t have to know that for him to keep her safe.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2012
175 people are currently reading
1047 people want to read
About the author
Christi Snow
69 books738 followersAs an avid reader her entire life, Christi Snow always dreamed of writing books that brought to others the kind of joy she felt when she read. But...she never did anything about it besides jot down a few ideas and sparse scenes.
When her husband retired from the Air Force, Christi decided it was time to chase her dream and she started writing. She hasn’t stopped since. With twenty-two published books in various romance genres, she’s found her passion. Now she spends her days with her laptop writing about sexy, alpha heroes and the loves of their lives.
Writing, Christi has fulfilled her dream... filling the world with more romance and suspense.
Her tagline is... Passion and adventure on the road to Happily Ever After. She loves this adventure and has truly found her tribe!
Note: I also have a book review blog...Smitten with Reading ( http://smittenwithreading.blogspot.com ) and most of my book reviews are also posted there.
When her husband retired from the Air Force, Christi decided it was time to chase her dream and she started writing. She hasn’t stopped since. With twenty-two published books in various romance genres, she’s found her passion. Now she spends her days with her laptop writing about sexy, alpha heroes and the loves of their lives.
Writing, Christi has fulfilled her dream... filling the world with more romance and suspense.
Her tagline is... Passion and adventure on the road to Happily Ever After. She loves this adventure and has truly found her tribe!
Note: I also have a book review blog...Smitten with Reading ( http://smittenwithreading.blogspot.com ) and most of my book reviews are also posted there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
October 24, 2015
In Operation: Endgame, we’re introduced to twins Cassie and Chris Robertson and their childhood best friend, Jake Madsen. Cassie and Jake have been circling around their mutual attraction for years, but when Chris dies in combat and Jake feels responsible, a single night of shared passion and grief irrevocably change Cassie and Jake’s friendship forever. However, when a stalker begins to target Cassie, Jake is drawn back to Lubbock, Texas to protect the woman he loves.
Let me start by saying that I’m a massive fan of romantic suspense novels. However, it’s rare for me to find a new author whose work I think is as well-written and characters as well-crafted as that of Suzanne Brockmann, Cindy Gerard, Christy Reece, or Laura Griffin. That said, it only took reading a couple pages of Christi Snow’s novel, Operation: Endgame, to realize that I had found my next “must read” author.
There was a LOT to love about this book.
Perhaps most importantly for me, Snow managed to create main characters that were strong, sexy, and smart. A university professor and video game consultant, Cassie Robertson was independent, intelligent, and ambitious. At the same time, she was fun-loving and deeply devoted to her family and friends. Basically, she's everything that women in romance novels can (and should) be.
Jake Madsen, on the other hand, was the perfect foil for Cassie. An elite pararescueman (PJ), Jake was strong, capable, protective, and just vulnerable enough to tug at my heart strings. Honestly, if the man were real, I'd take two! ;)
And, because this is a romance novel, I have to mention that the chemistry between these two was spot on! I love a good friends-to-lovers story, but throw in some guns and mortal danger and it's good-bye panties! *wipes drool off chin*
Though the majority of Snow’s efforts were (understandably) spent on fleshing out her main characters, her secondary characters popped from the pages as well. The camaraderie and bone-deep caring the characters felt for one another was palpable on every page. Even though it was only a minor story line, I was really glad to see a relationship develop between War and Derek. Their struggle to accept themselves and their feelings for one another felt real and poignant. The more I see same-sex relationships (or anything else outside of the hetero norm) in romance novels, the happier it makes me. The world is a diverse and beautiful place filled with diverse and beautiful people, and it warms my heart to see romance authors embracing these types of characters and relationships in their work.
Love is love, after all.
The book started strong for me, but I felt that it stumbled a little towards the end. It was as if Snow’s descriptive capabilities which had been so well executed in the first half of the novel (especially in those fantastic flashbacks), weren’t able to keep up with the momentum of the plot she created as the action snowballed towards the climax. The description became a little thin, lacking in the more sensory experiences that would have pumped life into the scenes. Where was the stinging feel of the wind whipped up by the helicopter blades on Jake’s face? Or the deafening whump, whump of the blades that would have made conversation between the stalker and Jake inside the helicopter nearly impossible without shouting or the use of headsets?!
And although I was 100% entertained by the novel's climax (Snow knows how to write thrilling action), I couldn't help but feel as if it placed the characters in an almost unbelievable role reversal situation. I mean, I’m all for a woman who can hold her own and kick some serious ass, but Cassie was almost so in-charge that Jake felt redundant. And let’s be real, Cassie might be a military strategist of unparalleled skill, but Jake is a freakin’ PJ and those guys are badass – the elite of the elite. They don’t sit back and let others make the plans and take the risks. It also struck me as completely out of character that Cassie would be able to carry out the acts of violence she did in the final few pages of the book, even if it was to protect herself and those she cared about.
Despite a somewhat problematic climax, I still thought Operation: Endgame was a great book. It was well-written, fast-paced, included several really creative plot twists, and I was happy to see two characters I genuinely liked get their happily ever after together. Honestly, I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Let me start by saying that I’m a massive fan of romantic suspense novels. However, it’s rare for me to find a new author whose work I think is as well-written and characters as well-crafted as that of Suzanne Brockmann, Cindy Gerard, Christy Reece, or Laura Griffin. That said, it only took reading a couple pages of Christi Snow’s novel, Operation: Endgame, to realize that I had found my next “must read” author.
There was a LOT to love about this book.
Perhaps most importantly for me, Snow managed to create main characters that were strong, sexy, and smart. A university professor and video game consultant, Cassie Robertson was independent, intelligent, and ambitious. At the same time, she was fun-loving and deeply devoted to her family and friends. Basically, she's everything that women in romance novels can (and should) be.
Jake Madsen, on the other hand, was the perfect foil for Cassie. An elite pararescueman (PJ), Jake was strong, capable, protective, and just vulnerable enough to tug at my heart strings. Honestly, if the man were real, I'd take two! ;)
And, because this is a romance novel, I have to mention that the chemistry between these two was spot on! I love a good friends-to-lovers story, but throw in some guns and mortal danger and it's good-bye panties! *wipes drool off chin*
Though the majority of Snow’s efforts were (understandably) spent on fleshing out her main characters, her secondary characters popped from the pages as well. The camaraderie and bone-deep caring the characters felt for one another was palpable on every page. Even though it was only a minor story line, I was really glad to see a relationship develop between War and Derek. Their struggle to accept themselves and their feelings for one another felt real and poignant. The more I see same-sex relationships (or anything else outside of the hetero norm) in romance novels, the happier it makes me. The world is a diverse and beautiful place filled with diverse and beautiful people, and it warms my heart to see romance authors embracing these types of characters and relationships in their work.
Love is love, after all.
The book started strong for me, but I felt that it stumbled a little towards the end. It was as if Snow’s descriptive capabilities which had been so well executed in the first half of the novel (especially in those fantastic flashbacks), weren’t able to keep up with the momentum of the plot she created as the action snowballed towards the climax. The description became a little thin, lacking in the more sensory experiences that would have pumped life into the scenes. Where was the stinging feel of the wind whipped up by the helicopter blades on Jake’s face? Or the deafening whump, whump of the blades that would have made conversation between the stalker and Jake inside the helicopter nearly impossible without shouting or the use of headsets?!
And although I was 100% entertained by the novel's climax (Snow knows how to write thrilling action), I couldn't help but feel as if it placed the characters in an almost unbelievable role reversal situation. I mean, I’m all for a woman who can hold her own and kick some serious ass, but Cassie was almost so in-charge that Jake felt redundant. And let’s be real, Cassie might be a military strategist of unparalleled skill, but Jake is a freakin’ PJ and those guys are badass – the elite of the elite. They don’t sit back and let others make the plans and take the risks. It also struck me as completely out of character that Cassie would be able to carry out the acts of violence she did in the final few pages of the book, even if it was to protect herself and those she cared about.
Despite a somewhat problematic climax, I still thought Operation: Endgame was a great book. It was well-written, fast-paced, included several really creative plot twists, and I was happy to see two characters I genuinely liked get their happily ever after together. Honestly, I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
May 8, 2013
What is it about big, strong military men who try to do the right thing but the right thing isn't really the right thing and when they eventually see the light things come together in a glorious explosion of heaving body parts and danger?
*blisses out on the thought* Man, does it work!
Jake-y boy definitely *thinks* he knows what the right path is for him and Cassie. Good thing Cassie's stalker forces his hand and puts the two of them back in revolution around one another. Because those two have sparks and to deny that would be a crime. For shame, Jake. For shame.
After round 1 of Jake and Cassie Get Sweaty and Jake bails on her, Cassie shores up her defenses and does the strong woman routine. Which means that she tries to get on with her life while not telling anyone about the stalker she has. Which is... so wrong, Cassie. What good are friends if they can't help you when someone's leaving you creepy gifts? Once things escalate, she does come clean but it takes a lot to reach that point. Jake's reappearance in her life throws her for a loop. In a good way.
This is, coincidentally, when round 2 of Jake and Cassie Get Sweaty begins. *high five*
Nicely naughty with enough danger to keep me on edge and the theme of family and the bonds of friendship running throughout, this book left me happy. The Robertson siblings have a lot going for them and a lot still to get through. I am intrigued.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
*blisses out on the thought* Man, does it work!
Jake-y boy definitely *thinks* he knows what the right path is for him and Cassie. Good thing Cassie's stalker forces his hand and puts the two of them back in revolution around one another. Because those two have sparks and to deny that would be a crime. For shame, Jake. For shame.
After round 1 of Jake and Cassie Get Sweaty and Jake bails on her, Cassie shores up her defenses and does the strong woman routine. Which means that she tries to get on with her life while not telling anyone about the stalker she has. Which is... so wrong, Cassie. What good are friends if they can't help you when someone's leaving you creepy gifts? Once things escalate, she does come clean but it takes a lot to reach that point. Jake's reappearance in her life throws her for a loop. In a good way.
This is, coincidentally, when round 2 of Jake and Cassie Get Sweaty begins. *high five*
Nicely naughty with enough danger to keep me on edge and the theme of family and the bonds of friendship running throughout, this book left me happy. The Robertson siblings have a lot going for them and a lot still to get through. I am intrigued.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
December 25, 2012
This review can also be found on my blog.
Operation: Endgame was my first read by author Christi Snow, and I can say with certainty that it won't be my last. I like the (best) friends-to-lovers trope. There's already as established relationship that just needs the right catalyst to push them that extra step. In the case of Jake and Cassie, it's the news of her brother's death and later on, her problem with a stalker.
Cassie was my type of heroine – fiercely loyal and devoted to her family, intelligent, and a gamer geek. As a child she was a tomboy; running around playing war games with her brothers and Jake. Since all the boys later joined the military, she became a military history buff and military tactics expert which led her to being called upon to help develop a military themed game called Endgame. In short, she was the type of girl that any hot-blooded guy would fall for.
Jake's life changed the day he fell out of a tree and met the twins Cassie and Chris. From that day on, they were the Three Musketeers. When Chris is killed in combat, Jake is there to help Cassie deal with her grief, but he also feels tremendous guilt for not being able to save his friend, even though he was in the vicinity. When Cassie begs him to make her pain go away, he gives in, but it only serves to make them both feel even worse. He had promised Chris years ago that he would stay away from Cassie. All these years he had kept his promise, difficult as it may have been. I loved that he tried to honor that promise for so long. It showed how much he genuinely cared for the siblings who had effectively become his family. For the man whose childhood was less than loving until the Robertsons came into his life, I absolutely understood why he tried so hard to keep Cassie in the best friend corner.
I really enjoyed the suspense and danger that surrounded Cassie constantly mainly because it served to land Jake under the same roof as Cassie, and in the path of seduction. Watching him crumble was so much fun!
As she climbed the chair and reached to place the star at the top, Jake groaned internally. Her luscious ass was front and center and looking absolutely delectable. Luckily, it didn't take long to get the star up, but unfortunately, that wasn't the only thing getting up.
I had my suspicions about the villain, but kept getting turned around which kept me guessing until the mystery unfolded. I also liked the flashbacks at key moments in the story. They gave the reader a more in-depth understanding of the bond between the main characters or the meaning behind certain gestures and symbols. The most touching flashback had to do with certain scars. That was so cute. If there was one thing I didn't like, it was Cassie's carelessness. When it becomes obvious that her stalker has been watching her, she throws caution to the wind and leaves herself vulnerable to attack more than once. Aside from that, I highly recommend this book. I'm looking forward to starting book number two which is Colten's story. The poor guy deserves some happiness.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2012
This story has a little bit of everything-suspense, intrigue, sexual tension and love! It was great that I wasn't sure who the bad guy was until the very end, and I kept having to change my mind over and over. Can't wait for book two!
March 23, 2018
When I grow up, I want to write like christi snow! I'm not a great review writer, but I love this story. It stays with you, and I love how she pulled together occupations and plots that are uniquely her. I loved this story!
September 18, 2012
Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks
Operation: Endgame is the first book in debut author Christi Snow’s When the Mission Ends series. It is a contemporary romantic suspense story and yes, it’s true, I don’t read many books of this genre but you know what?…I really enjoyed it.
The characters are what did it for me. They are well developed and very likable. Cassie, the main heroine, was smart, sassy and a thorough joy. I liked how passionate she was about her job, her friends and her family. She was definitely a chick I would want to hang out with in real life. In fact, I would want to hang out with all three of main women, Cassie, Julie and Penelope – who will all end up getting their own book and HEA by the way…but more on that later.
Jake was a great hero. A bit wounded because he blames himself for his friend’s death but not so wounded that you want to shake him and tell him to get over himself. He is a fantastic match for Cassie and I love how he handles her ‘situation’. He’s all alpha because he loves her yet tactical because he’s military. His reactions really suited his character and how he was with Cassie once he made his feelings known suited him too.
We get a glimpse of Cassie’s BFF’s Penelope and Julie and of her brother too. Even though we don’t spend an enormous amount of time with these characters, they leave their mark. They will be the focus of the rest of this trilogy and, just from what I saw in book one, I am thoroughly pleased. I have already created a bit of a bond with these people and I can’t wait to know more about them and to watch their stories unfold. That is pretty impressive writing when an author can create a connection with her readers using secondary characters in such a short amount of time.
A few things in this book are explained via flashbacks. Now, for those of you who just moaned a bit and muttered “boo, flashbacks” do not fret. They are very well done and fit the story perfectly. They truly help the story along and not just pretend to.
The suspense part of the book was really well done. Cassie is well known after being interviewed about her role in the development of a war-based video game and has gained an extra passionate admirer. Yup, she has a stalker. A creepy one at that. Not like there is such a thing as a non-creepy stalker but I think you know what I mean. While I was reading, I could have sworn I knew who the stalker was. In fact, I thought Christi made it too obvious! But just when I was really thinking that, she threw in a couple of other suspects and suddenly I’m starting to second guess myself! Eventually she had me convinced that any of these three guys could be the culprit! Well, it turned out that… As if I’m going to tell you which one was the ultimate bad guy, but I will tell you that (even if you are a smarty pants and think you have it all figured out from the get go) there is no way you will ever guess the why behind it. With that part I was all “wha’?!” in a good sort of way.
Speaking of “wha’?!”…the twist near the end!!! Holy jumpin’!
There is a bit of repetition here and there and I did wish that Cassie took her situation a little more seriously at times and stopped putting herself in harm’s way but neither of these issues bothered me enough to truly damper the story for me. The overall pacing was great and I really enjoyed Christi’s writing voice. I feel it suited the genre very well.
Overall, I quite enjoyed Operation: Endgame. I found the story engrossing and the characters well written. The story, even though it was suspense based, was sweet and I found this book read exceptionally well. Christi is a voice to watch and I can’t wait to read more.
Operation: Endgame is the first book in debut author Christi Snow’s When the Mission Ends series. It is a contemporary romantic suspense story and yes, it’s true, I don’t read many books of this genre but you know what?…I really enjoyed it.
The characters are what did it for me. They are well developed and very likable. Cassie, the main heroine, was smart, sassy and a thorough joy. I liked how passionate she was about her job, her friends and her family. She was definitely a chick I would want to hang out with in real life. In fact, I would want to hang out with all three of main women, Cassie, Julie and Penelope – who will all end up getting their own book and HEA by the way…but more on that later.
Jake was a great hero. A bit wounded because he blames himself for his friend’s death but not so wounded that you want to shake him and tell him to get over himself. He is a fantastic match for Cassie and I love how he handles her ‘situation’. He’s all alpha because he loves her yet tactical because he’s military. His reactions really suited his character and how he was with Cassie once he made his feelings known suited him too.
We get a glimpse of Cassie’s BFF’s Penelope and Julie and of her brother too. Even though we don’t spend an enormous amount of time with these characters, they leave their mark. They will be the focus of the rest of this trilogy and, just from what I saw in book one, I am thoroughly pleased. I have already created a bit of a bond with these people and I can’t wait to know more about them and to watch their stories unfold. That is pretty impressive writing when an author can create a connection with her readers using secondary characters in such a short amount of time.
A few things in this book are explained via flashbacks. Now, for those of you who just moaned a bit and muttered “boo, flashbacks” do not fret. They are very well done and fit the story perfectly. They truly help the story along and not just pretend to.
The suspense part of the book was really well done. Cassie is well known after being interviewed about her role in the development of a war-based video game and has gained an extra passionate admirer. Yup, she has a stalker. A creepy one at that. Not like there is such a thing as a non-creepy stalker but I think you know what I mean. While I was reading, I could have sworn I knew who the stalker was. In fact, I thought Christi made it too obvious! But just when I was really thinking that, she threw in a couple of other suspects and suddenly I’m starting to second guess myself! Eventually she had me convinced that any of these three guys could be the culprit! Well, it turned out that… As if I’m going to tell you which one was the ultimate bad guy, but I will tell you that (even if you are a smarty pants and think you have it all figured out from the get go) there is no way you will ever guess the why behind it. With that part I was all “wha’?!” in a good sort of way.
Speaking of “wha’?!”…the twist near the end!!! Holy jumpin’!
There is a bit of repetition here and there and I did wish that Cassie took her situation a little more seriously at times and stopped putting herself in harm’s way but neither of these issues bothered me enough to truly damper the story for me. The overall pacing was great and I really enjoyed Christi’s writing voice. I feel it suited the genre very well.
Overall, I quite enjoyed Operation: Endgame. I found the story engrossing and the characters well written. The story, even though it was suspense based, was sweet and I found this book read exceptionally well. Christi is a voice to watch and I can’t wait to read more.
October 10, 2012
Originally published at Reading Reality
Operation: Endgame is a marvelous friends-into-lovers romance which manages to have both an alpha male military hero and a kick-butt heroine who not only rescues herself in the end, but also rescues the hero of one of the later books in this When the Mission Ends series. Not a bad day's work, all things considered.
There's a reason that the friends-into-lovers trope is a tried and true one. When it's done right, it gives the love story a whole lot more depth than the insta-love connection that's much too common in romance these days. Operation: Endgame does a terrific job at filling in the long story of Jake and Cassie's childhood bonding. Along with Cassie's twin brother Chris, they were the neighborhood's Three Musketeers. Those ties still run deep, even though adult responses have put a little distance between Cass and Jake, they are still best friends. They're both too afraid to let their attraction to each other ruin the most important relationship in their lives.
But Chris' death behind enemy lines changes all that. Chris and Jake are both in Air Force Special Operations, but Chris' job was to infiltrate, and Jake's duties are in the Pararescue Jumpers. Jake gets soldiers out after everything goes pear-shaped. But because bad weather moved in, he wasn't able to rescue Chris. The Air Force declares Chris dead based on his dog tags, his uniform, and not much else.
One thing this reader has learned after many too many of the right (or wrong) kind of books--if the body is burned beyond all recognition, it's never the right body. So when Cass starts having "twin dreams" that Chris is being tortured, it was obvious foreshadowing that he was alive and being tortured.
Two things happen in the wake of Chris' death. Jake and Cass finally spend one glorious night together. Which Jake, being an idiot, believes is the result of him taking advantage of Cass in her grief. He leaves in the middle of the night.
And someone starts stalking Cass, naming himself after the main villain in the military strategy video game that Cass consulted on (Cass is an expert on military strategy). As the stalking escalates, Jake realizes that he has to come back home to protect Cass, no matter how he feels. He thinks she deserves better than the man who wasn't able to save her brother.
Of course, he never asks her what she wants, or what she thinks she deserves. And that stalker has some pretty fixed ideas of his own on that score. Potentially deadly ideas.
Escape Rating B+: I loved the friends-into-lovers part of the story. Jake and Cass' relationship, and the twists and turns in how they got from childhood friendship to adult partnership, were very well done. While I referred to Jake as an idiot, his idiocy was completely understandable within the context of the story.
On the other hand, while the suspense was fun, I found it fairly predictable. As soon as it was revealed how Chris' body was identified, I knew he was still alive. That plot device has been used many too many times, including last week's NCIS episode.
Likewise, it was blindingly obvious who Cass' stalker was from the first moment the character was introduced. I will admit that his reason for stalking her turned out to be a surprise. Also a bit "over-the-top". Someone that completely unbalanced would have had a hard time maintaining the kind of extensive criminal enterprise this guy was running.
But the mix made for a terrifically fun story. I had a fantastic time reading it and I can't wait for book two in the series, Operation: Endeavor.
Operation: Endgame is a marvelous friends-into-lovers romance which manages to have both an alpha male military hero and a kick-butt heroine who not only rescues herself in the end, but also rescues the hero of one of the later books in this When the Mission Ends series. Not a bad day's work, all things considered.
There's a reason that the friends-into-lovers trope is a tried and true one. When it's done right, it gives the love story a whole lot more depth than the insta-love connection that's much too common in romance these days. Operation: Endgame does a terrific job at filling in the long story of Jake and Cassie's childhood bonding. Along with Cassie's twin brother Chris, they were the neighborhood's Three Musketeers. Those ties still run deep, even though adult responses have put a little distance between Cass and Jake, they are still best friends. They're both too afraid to let their attraction to each other ruin the most important relationship in their lives.
But Chris' death behind enemy lines changes all that. Chris and Jake are both in Air Force Special Operations, but Chris' job was to infiltrate, and Jake's duties are in the Pararescue Jumpers. Jake gets soldiers out after everything goes pear-shaped. But because bad weather moved in, he wasn't able to rescue Chris. The Air Force declares Chris dead based on his dog tags, his uniform, and not much else.
One thing this reader has learned after many too many of the right (or wrong) kind of books--if the body is burned beyond all recognition, it's never the right body. So when Cass starts having "twin dreams" that Chris is being tortured, it was obvious foreshadowing that he was alive and being tortured.
Two things happen in the wake of Chris' death. Jake and Cass finally spend one glorious night together. Which Jake, being an idiot, believes is the result of him taking advantage of Cass in her grief. He leaves in the middle of the night.
And someone starts stalking Cass, naming himself after the main villain in the military strategy video game that Cass consulted on (Cass is an expert on military strategy). As the stalking escalates, Jake realizes that he has to come back home to protect Cass, no matter how he feels. He thinks she deserves better than the man who wasn't able to save her brother.
Of course, he never asks her what she wants, or what she thinks she deserves. And that stalker has some pretty fixed ideas of his own on that score. Potentially deadly ideas.
Escape Rating B+: I loved the friends-into-lovers part of the story. Jake and Cass' relationship, and the twists and turns in how they got from childhood friendship to adult partnership, were very well done. While I referred to Jake as an idiot, his idiocy was completely understandable within the context of the story.
On the other hand, while the suspense was fun, I found it fairly predictable. As soon as it was revealed how Chris' body was identified, I knew he was still alive. That plot device has been used many too many times, including last week's NCIS episode.
Likewise, it was blindingly obvious who Cass' stalker was from the first moment the character was introduced. I will admit that his reason for stalking her turned out to be a surprise. Also a bit "over-the-top". Someone that completely unbalanced would have had a hard time maintaining the kind of extensive criminal enterprise this guy was running.
But the mix made for a terrifically fun story. I had a fantastic time reading it and I can't wait for book two in the series, Operation: Endeavor.
October 25, 2014
3.5 stars
On the enjoyability level, this book deserves almost five stars. Just as the synopsis says, Operation: Endgame tells a story of Jake and Cass, two best friends who just lost their other best friend. Said friend just happens to be Cassandra's overprotective twin brother who had warned Jake before that if he ever as much as touched Cass, he won't survive to see another sunrise, best friends or nor. Unfortunately, as Jake is comforting Cass after the funeral, things get out of hand, lust overpowers reason and the 20-year-old friendship takes a serious blow. Jake, guilty and slightly unstable, runs away, Cass is left grieving and in denial. Six months later, she finds herself being stalked by a total psycho and Jake takes the role of a knight in shining armor. Needless to say, sparks fly, sexual tension reaches its peak and both characters have to decide whether their relationship could survive something more than just a friendship most people would die to have.
Pretty much all of the characters made this book extremely enjoyable. This book is not one of those miserable cases where the main characters have only themselves and the rest of the world does not exist. They have friends, family and rivals. They are realistic and alive. They have distinct personalities, they have their quirks and they are extremely likable. And I'm not talking about main characters only, because people surrounding them shine just as much.
The romance also turned out to be wonderful. It's not overly dramatic, but it's not completely smooth either. Jake and Cass care for each other, understand each other, and love each other on many different levels. A very refreshing change from possessive, obsessive jerks and girls who are too stupid to live so often seen in romance. Sure, Jake gets jealous all the time seeing as Cass likes to flirt innocently with pretty much all of her friends, but it's all sweet and funny. Seriously, the guy even goes through Christmas shopping for her! These two often act like a married couple and for the whole duration of the story, they stay in perfect harmony. They don't misunderstand each other, they confront all of their issues right away and they actually talk. That's what a healthy relationship should be like. It's not about sex and attraction at first sight, contrary to the popular belief of most romance novel characters.
However, my issue with the book is the writing style. It was a bit too simple for my liking, but that's totally okay. Not everything should be poetry. But quite often sentences and paragraphs were a bit clumsy, I guess, with lots of repetitions. At times, it felt like I was reading fanfiction (and not a very well written one), not a published book. Many flashbacks done in the wrong way, many sentences describing characters' actions in the wrong way... Maybe it's just me, but it really bothered me.
Another thing is predictability. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the plot, much more than I suspected I would. However, it all was pretty clear. Although there is supposed to be a great doze of suspense, the villain was pretty obvious and so were other things. Sure, I enjoy good foreshadowing and piecing together clues given by authors, but in this book I had no doubt about the villain, who is amazing, btw. The epilogue felt rushed, too, compared to the overall pace of the book. Still, a very enjoyable read that left me craving its sequels, so 3.5 stars it is.
On the enjoyability level, this book deserves almost five stars. Just as the synopsis says, Operation: Endgame tells a story of Jake and Cass, two best friends who just lost their other best friend. Said friend just happens to be Cassandra's overprotective twin brother who had warned Jake before that if he ever as much as touched Cass, he won't survive to see another sunrise, best friends or nor. Unfortunately, as Jake is comforting Cass after the funeral, things get out of hand, lust overpowers reason and the 20-year-old friendship takes a serious blow. Jake, guilty and slightly unstable, runs away, Cass is left grieving and in denial. Six months later, she finds herself being stalked by a total psycho and Jake takes the role of a knight in shining armor. Needless to say, sparks fly, sexual tension reaches its peak and both characters have to decide whether their relationship could survive something more than just a friendship most people would die to have.
Pretty much all of the characters made this book extremely enjoyable. This book is not one of those miserable cases where the main characters have only themselves and the rest of the world does not exist. They have friends, family and rivals. They are realistic and alive. They have distinct personalities, they have their quirks and they are extremely likable. And I'm not talking about main characters only, because people surrounding them shine just as much.
The romance also turned out to be wonderful. It's not overly dramatic, but it's not completely smooth either. Jake and Cass care for each other, understand each other, and love each other on many different levels. A very refreshing change from possessive, obsessive jerks and girls who are too stupid to live so often seen in romance. Sure, Jake gets jealous all the time seeing as Cass likes to flirt innocently with pretty much all of her friends, but it's all sweet and funny. Seriously, the guy even goes through Christmas shopping for her! These two often act like a married couple and for the whole duration of the story, they stay in perfect harmony. They don't misunderstand each other, they confront all of their issues right away and they actually talk. That's what a healthy relationship should be like. It's not about sex and attraction at first sight, contrary to the popular belief of most romance novel characters.
However, my issue with the book is the writing style. It was a bit too simple for my liking, but that's totally okay. Not everything should be poetry. But quite often sentences and paragraphs were a bit clumsy, I guess, with lots of repetitions. At times, it felt like I was reading fanfiction (and not a very well written one), not a published book. Many flashbacks done in the wrong way, many sentences describing characters' actions in the wrong way... Maybe it's just me, but it really bothered me.
Another thing is predictability. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the plot, much more than I suspected I would. However, it all was pretty clear. Although there is supposed to be a great doze of suspense, the villain was pretty obvious and so were other things. Sure, I enjoy good foreshadowing and piecing together clues given by authors, but in this book I had no doubt about the villain, who is amazing, btw. The epilogue felt rushed, too, compared to the overall pace of the book. Still, a very enjoyable read that left me craving its sequels, so 3.5 stars it is.
December 14, 2012
Operation: Endgame by debut author Christi Snow was the first book in a Contemporary Romantic Suspense Trilogy, set in Lubbock TX. All three books feature former active duty Air Force officers and the women they love. This was an excellent opener to what should be a fabulous series.
Establishing character credibility and history adeptly is always a plus in a series. Christi Snow, accomplished this brilliantly, shifting through time, allowing the reader to become familiar with Colton, Cassie and Chris Robertson, who from an early age were orphaned through the death of their parents. Endgame primarily focuses on Cassie, twin of Fighter Pilot Chris; enduring his tragic death, and her traumatic experience with a crazed stalker. We also met the supporting characters, Jake, the hunky best friend of Cassie and Chris, vivacious, highly intelligent Penelope, and sweet, serious Julie.
You cant but love a heroine who is intelligent, beautiful, sassy and fiercely independent! Cassie, a Military Professor is someone used to control. She maintained a full, busy life determined to keep her fears at bay for her ‘boys’, all involved in active duty. Due to her proficiency as a Military Strategist, she drew the attention of a nefarious stalker, hell bent on making her, his. Cassie grew up knowing she was loved and cared for by her men, but one man in particular held her heart, and had for a long time.
Honorable, luscious and delectable Jake Madsen had been friends with the twins for 20 years. With grief constricting their hearts on the night of the funeral, and dormant passion stirring, a night of sex realised a fantasy for Cassie, and caused Jake to become assuaged with guilt, risking their easy friendship.
Jake was extremely likeable. He was sexy, gorgeous, courageous and a wonderfully tactile man. He needed to overcome many obstacles to restore peace to his mind. Admirably moral, almost to his detriment, his life has come to a crossroad in both his career as a Pararescue Jumper (PJ) and his relationship with Cassie. He knew he loved her, but until her life was at risk, had not acknowledged the true depth of his feelings. Was it lust, love or guilt motivating his actions?
You will definitely want to see Jake and Cassie become a couple, but i wont give away secrets....
Endgame was what I would call a light suspense. There were twists and turns, which kept you guessing, funny interchanges, and enough sizzling chemistry to keep you panting. It read like a Television mini series, with all the characters, wicked and virtuous being introduced, and the perpetrator easily identifiable. Despite being a little predictable, the pace was good, the characters strong, each adding significant dimension to the book, and the action/suspense, arresting. The author balanced the intensity between the mystery and the romance effortlessly. I feel there could have been more probing into the dreams Cassie experienced, and a less conspicuous villain, but otherwise, it was an engaging, promising start to an excellent series. Just wait till you read the second book Operation: Endeavor……
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review.
Establishing character credibility and history adeptly is always a plus in a series. Christi Snow, accomplished this brilliantly, shifting through time, allowing the reader to become familiar with Colton, Cassie and Chris Robertson, who from an early age were orphaned through the death of their parents. Endgame primarily focuses on Cassie, twin of Fighter Pilot Chris; enduring his tragic death, and her traumatic experience with a crazed stalker. We also met the supporting characters, Jake, the hunky best friend of Cassie and Chris, vivacious, highly intelligent Penelope, and sweet, serious Julie.
You cant but love a heroine who is intelligent, beautiful, sassy and fiercely independent! Cassie, a Military Professor is someone used to control. She maintained a full, busy life determined to keep her fears at bay for her ‘boys’, all involved in active duty. Due to her proficiency as a Military Strategist, she drew the attention of a nefarious stalker, hell bent on making her, his. Cassie grew up knowing she was loved and cared for by her men, but one man in particular held her heart, and had for a long time.
Honorable, luscious and delectable Jake Madsen had been friends with the twins for 20 years. With grief constricting their hearts on the night of the funeral, and dormant passion stirring, a night of sex realised a fantasy for Cassie, and caused Jake to become assuaged with guilt, risking their easy friendship.
Jake was extremely likeable. He was sexy, gorgeous, courageous and a wonderfully tactile man. He needed to overcome many obstacles to restore peace to his mind. Admirably moral, almost to his detriment, his life has come to a crossroad in both his career as a Pararescue Jumper (PJ) and his relationship with Cassie. He knew he loved her, but until her life was at risk, had not acknowledged the true depth of his feelings. Was it lust, love or guilt motivating his actions?
You will definitely want to see Jake and Cassie become a couple, but i wont give away secrets....
Endgame was what I would call a light suspense. There were twists and turns, which kept you guessing, funny interchanges, and enough sizzling chemistry to keep you panting. It read like a Television mini series, with all the characters, wicked and virtuous being introduced, and the perpetrator easily identifiable. Despite being a little predictable, the pace was good, the characters strong, each adding significant dimension to the book, and the action/suspense, arresting. The author balanced the intensity between the mystery and the romance effortlessly. I feel there could have been more probing into the dreams Cassie experienced, and a less conspicuous villain, but otherwise, it was an engaging, promising start to an excellent series. Just wait till you read the second book Operation: Endeavor……
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review.
July 18, 2012
I enjoy friends to lovers romances. There is a little more with Jake and Cassie’s friends to lovers romance but I’m not going to spill. You need to read to find out. Jake and Cassie don’t have an easy road to happily ever after though. He has a case of survivor’s guilt, and he feels guilty about taking advantage of Cassie after her brother’s death. Cassie has mixed feeling about how Jake reacted after their one night of passion, she’s being stalked by an unknown predator, and she’s feeling off with everything in her life.
I loved this close knit group of friends. From the first page they seemed like people I knew and by the end of the book I felt like part of their group. These are the type of people that you want to have as friends that you consider family. All of the characters are easy to relate to and I look forward to seeing more of them as the series continues.
I loved the flashbacks. There are a few, not an overwhelming amount. The very first one was my favorite. Cassie, Chris, and Jake have been friends for most of their lives. The flashbacks show not only the amount of time, but they reinforce just how strong of a friendship they have.
I need to mention the suspense. Cassie has a stalker. When it came out who it was, why he was doing it, how he had hidden it so well for so long I was a bit shocked. The reason for the stalking is not what I had assumed it would be, it was some of the psycho’s reasoning. There is just so much more to the stalking. What he was hiding from Cassie is still a shocker. I did not see that one coming.
I mentioned I’m looking forward to continuing the series. If book #3 is going to who I think it is I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
***while none of the characters in Operation: Endgame drive Jeeps, the author does. She has a Rubicon & I have Jeep envy.***
I loved this close knit group of friends. From the first page they seemed like people I knew and by the end of the book I felt like part of their group. These are the type of people that you want to have as friends that you consider family. All of the characters are easy to relate to and I look forward to seeing more of them as the series continues.
I loved the flashbacks. There are a few, not an overwhelming amount. The very first one was my favorite. Cassie, Chris, and Jake have been friends for most of their lives. The flashbacks show not only the amount of time, but they reinforce just how strong of a friendship they have.
I need to mention the suspense. Cassie has a stalker. When it came out who it was, why he was doing it, how he had hidden it so well for so long I was a bit shocked. The reason for the stalking is not what I had assumed it would be, it was some of the psycho’s reasoning. There is just so much more to the stalking. What he was hiding from Cassie is still a shocker. I did not see that one coming.
I mentioned I’m looking forward to continuing the series. If book #3 is going to who I think it is I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
***while none of the characters in Operation: Endgame drive Jeeps, the author does. She has a Rubicon & I have Jeep envy.***
April 25, 2015
Oh my God! This was no light reading.
The story trapped me from page one thinking this would be an adorable love story between Jake and Cassie. Those two--with their hot and sweet chemistry--won me from the beginning. I was rooting for them to reach their HEA. But holy mother, this was more than a love story.
The mystery behind the stalker kept me plastered to my kindle until the every end. Especially those last chapters! My heart couldn't stop beating fast (in a nervous way) because I didn't know how everything would turn out or if I would ever see Jake and Cassie safe and happy. Those last pages were so nerve-wracking for me that I still feel some adrenaline rushing through my veins and because of it, I wish I could've read more happy moments between them throughout the book, especially in the ending. Because even though I loved what happened, I wanted more.
Now I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, hoping to see some of Jake and Cassie in there. And of course, more of the rest of the characters.
'Operation: Endgame' is a thrilling debut for Christi Snow. You won't want to stop reading until you reach the end. If you're a romance and suspense lover (with some sexiness in between) this is the book for you. It is a great beginning of a series that promises to be awesome.
The story trapped me from page one thinking this would be an adorable love story between Jake and Cassie. Those two--with their hot and sweet chemistry--won me from the beginning. I was rooting for them to reach their HEA. But holy mother, this was more than a love story.
The mystery behind the stalker kept me plastered to my kindle until the every end. Especially those last chapters! My heart couldn't stop beating fast (in a nervous way) because I didn't know how everything would turn out or if I would ever see Jake and Cassie safe and happy. Those last pages were so nerve-wracking for me that I still feel some adrenaline rushing through my veins and because of it, I wish I could've read more happy moments between them throughout the book, especially in the ending. Because even though I loved what happened, I wanted more.
Now I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, hoping to see some of Jake and Cassie in there. And of course, more of the rest of the characters.
'Operation: Endgame' is a thrilling debut for Christi Snow. You won't want to stop reading until you reach the end. If you're a romance and suspense lover (with some sexiness in between) this is the book for you. It is a great beginning of a series that promises to be awesome.
June 26, 2012
I love a good steamy romance with a Kick A$$ heroine and lots of suspense. Operation:Endgame has all of this in spades, plus more. It's a friends to lovers story that grabs you by the throat from the first page. It's so important to me when reading a romance that the heroine can hold her own and the author definitely does not disappoint on this score. Jake, our hero, is absolutely lickable and a strong Alpha who, of course, has a weakness named Cassie. The romance and heat between these too is the best kind, because it's been on simmer for years and when it hits boiling point, you're going to need to turn up the air conditioner, I'm just sayin'. The author does an excellent job of turning up the heat with both the suspense and the romance, which is perfect because so many times you have not enough of one or the other. This promises to be an excellent series..and if I can be honest I am crushing hard on Book 3's Hero (Operation:Endurance) Chris. Back off ladies, he's mine. Although I'm sure Book 2, Operation:Endeavor will be able to keep me warm until then!
May 19, 2012
I'll be back to add my raving review...seriously fabulous book!!!
December 3, 2012
Loved loved loved this!! It's great to read a book that's not always the guy saves the girl, girls kick ass too!
August 12, 2021
J’ai choisi de sortir ce titre de ma PAL pour le challenge Juno 2021 du mois d’Août et je valide ainsi l’item « un titre choisi pour la couverture ». Je l’avoue, j’ai un peu triché. Elle n’est pas dingue, mais je voulais absolument découvrir ce titre !
Cassie et Jake ont perdu un frère et un meilleur ami. Ils se sont épaulés et réconfortés pour ensuite s’éloigner pendant six mois. Mais quand la vie de la jeune femme sera en danger, le militaire ne réfléchira pas à deux fois pour l’aider.
Une romance suspense que j’ai aimé découvrir ! Les deux genres littéraires fonctionnent bien et sont bien présents pour notre plus grand bonheur ! Mais détaillons !
Cassie est une jeune femme pas comme les autres : elle est sexy, femme fatale, mais en même temps garçon manqué. Elle est forte et déterminée. Une force de la nature. Et j’ai adoré ça. Typiquement le genre d’héroïne que j’aime retrouver !
Jake est un excellent héros et qui change un peu. Malgré son côté militaire, il n’est pas si autoritaire que ça. C’est principalement pour la sécurité d’autrui. Il est tendre, respectueux. J’ai vraiment apprécié cette personnalité !
Un duo qui va vous donner du fil à retordre ! Le premier rapprochement arrive très vite. Mais après les six mois plus rien ne va. Il va falloir se refaire confiance, retrouver une complicité et accepter ses sentiments. Chacun a des peurs, mais c’est surtout un manque de communication qui retarde les choses. Imaginez-moi me tirant les cheveux pour leur dire de parler ! C’était drôle, mais surtout j’aime beaucoup ce duo amoureux et attentionné !
Ils ne sont pas seuls ! Des amis, des ex, des ennemis : la liste est longue et j’aurais peur de spoiler. Mais surtout à part la famille de Cassie, j’ai trouvé qu’ils étaient assez en retrait. J’ai hâte de découvrir sur qui sera la suite. Très bonne surprise d’avoir un couple MM en devenir !
L’intrigue est à double tranchant par contre. J’ai trouvé cela bien mené jusqu’à la dernière révélation. L’enquête nous accompagne dès le début et on tente de tout analyser et j’adore ça ! J’ai eu des idées telle Arabesque, mais ce n’était pas possible de prévoir ça ! Félicitations à l’imagination de l’auteure même si un peu tiré par les cheveux. C’est le destin. Mais avec tous ses bons côtés, j’ai trouvé dommage que cela se termine si rapidement.
Mon autre bémol qui fera que ce ne sera pas un coup de cœur, vient de la plume. J’ai aimé les choix et l’imagination de l’auteure. C’est assez addictif et haletant. Mais je ne suis pas fan des répétitions de prénoms qui rythme pas très bien notre lecture et certains passages sont trop scolaires à mon goût. Mais c’est totalement personnel et au final cela n’a pas nui à ma lecture.
Une découverte très sympa que j’ai dévorée en une soirée. Une aventure que je vais poursuivre avec le deuxième tome. Mais surtout un roman que je vous recommande pour un moment de détente !
Cassie et Jake ont perdu un frère et un meilleur ami. Ils se sont épaulés et réconfortés pour ensuite s’éloigner pendant six mois. Mais quand la vie de la jeune femme sera en danger, le militaire ne réfléchira pas à deux fois pour l’aider.
Une romance suspense que j’ai aimé découvrir ! Les deux genres littéraires fonctionnent bien et sont bien présents pour notre plus grand bonheur ! Mais détaillons !
Cassie est une jeune femme pas comme les autres : elle est sexy, femme fatale, mais en même temps garçon manqué. Elle est forte et déterminée. Une force de la nature. Et j’ai adoré ça. Typiquement le genre d’héroïne que j’aime retrouver !
Jake est un excellent héros et qui change un peu. Malgré son côté militaire, il n’est pas si autoritaire que ça. C’est principalement pour la sécurité d’autrui. Il est tendre, respectueux. J’ai vraiment apprécié cette personnalité !
Un duo qui va vous donner du fil à retordre ! Le premier rapprochement arrive très vite. Mais après les six mois plus rien ne va. Il va falloir se refaire confiance, retrouver une complicité et accepter ses sentiments. Chacun a des peurs, mais c’est surtout un manque de communication qui retarde les choses. Imaginez-moi me tirant les cheveux pour leur dire de parler ! C’était drôle, mais surtout j’aime beaucoup ce duo amoureux et attentionné !
Ils ne sont pas seuls ! Des amis, des ex, des ennemis : la liste est longue et j’aurais peur de spoiler. Mais surtout à part la famille de Cassie, j’ai trouvé qu’ils étaient assez en retrait. J’ai hâte de découvrir sur qui sera la suite. Très bonne surprise d’avoir un couple MM en devenir !
L’intrigue est à double tranchant par contre. J’ai trouvé cela bien mené jusqu’à la dernière révélation. L’enquête nous accompagne dès le début et on tente de tout analyser et j’adore ça ! J’ai eu des idées telle Arabesque, mais ce n’était pas possible de prévoir ça ! Félicitations à l’imagination de l’auteure même si un peu tiré par les cheveux. C’est le destin. Mais avec tous ses bons côtés, j’ai trouvé dommage que cela se termine si rapidement.
Mon autre bémol qui fera que ce ne sera pas un coup de cœur, vient de la plume. J’ai aimé les choix et l’imagination de l’auteure. C’est assez addictif et haletant. Mais je ne suis pas fan des répétitions de prénoms qui rythme pas très bien notre lecture et certains passages sont trop scolaires à mon goût. Mais c’est totalement personnel et au final cela n’a pas nui à ma lecture.
Une découverte très sympa que j’ai dévorée en une soirée. Une aventure que je vais poursuivre avec le deuxième tome. Mais surtout un roman que je vous recommande pour un moment de détente !
September 1, 2013
Operation: Endgame revolves around Jake and Cassie and how the come to finally give into the love that they truly have for each other. After Chris, Cassie's twin and Jake's best friend, is pronounced dead on a mission, Jake and Cassie find comfort in each others arms. Unfortunately that comfort makes Jake very uncomfortable since he broke a promise that he made Chris 10 years ago. 6 months later, Jake and Cassie have found themselves estranged, however when Cassie's older brother, Colton, calls Jake to help find out what is wrong with Cassie the two are thrown back together with a lot of unanswered questions.
Cassie is a professor at Texas Tech university and is educated in everything military. She is so good at what she does that she helped create a video game that is revolved around war and combat with a very realistic feel. Unfortunately, the popularity she has received from the game has brought an admirer out of the woodwork who is now stalking her. With the help of Jake and the local PD, she needs to find the stalker and stop his antics before it is too late.
I really enjoyed that we had a very strong alpha male out of Jake and a strong woman with Cassie. I'm so happy that Christi focuses on these types of characters in her books because they are the characters that I come to love and enjoy to read about. You can tell there is a lot of chemistry between our two main characters, but with their high emotions it's hard for them to just admit it to each other...and sometimes themselves.
I also enjoyed the suspense that was filled throughout the entire book. You have no clue who the stalker is, and even when you get minor glimpses of who it could be...you are constantly questioning if you are reading into the actions/reactions of the characters correctly. Having a stalker is definitely no laughing matter, but Cassie wants to pretend that this person is harmless. However, when the actions of the stalker start becoming bolder and more dangerous, everyone has to focus at the issue at hand and stop things before it's too late.
I really enjoyed the story line of the book as well as some of the side characters, but I did have a few issues. Some of the conversations seemed very mechanical. They didn't flow as well as I would have liked. I also wish there was more of a confrontation between Cassie and Jake when they finally got around to the issue between them and what happened 6 months prior. Jake really did hurt Cassie on a level that should be a little harder to deal with than she did, and I was surprised at her level of forgiveness even before the really brought the issue up head on.
I also liked the twists that were thrown in with her stalker. I enjoyed that I was left in the dark about a lot of the characters and when things became clear I was in complete shock. The last few chapters of the book had me on the edge of my seat, I was trying to figure out how everything was going to be wrapped up. It is hard for me to say, but when everything finally climaxed with the stalker, it was so quick that it was hard to have a reaction. It was like I was built up and built up and then in one quick sentence everything was taken care of. :-( I was hoping for a little more action at the end with all of our characters and everything that was set-up. Although, I am very happy that it was a specific character that ended up ending things for the stalker...that felt just perfect to me...I can't really say much more than that or I'll give things away!
There are a few other things I'd like to mention, but I really can't because I loved reading about them as the story went along...things that I would be upset if someone would have told me about them prior to reading the book. I will also say that I LOVED how short the chapters were. It made me feel like the story was moving a long quickly AND it helped on the late nights of reading to say "Just one more chapter." and actually have the chapter not keep me up for another hour!
I also really enjoyed the side characters! Between Colton, War, Derek, Peneloe and Julie there is definitely some potential for future side stories/novellas. I'm excited to see how things go with Julie and Dr. Hottie and how things go between two of our other characters...that I can't mentioned their names because that was another twist in this story that I didn't see coming. :-D
Overall:
I really liked this first book in a romantic suspense series. The element of surprise was weaved throughout the book and had me guessing the whole time. Again, I enjoyed the main characters and I'm excited to see some of our other characters HEA occur...I'm also interested to see what other suspenseful stories Christi is going to be able to come up with for the next two books! :-D I had a few issues with the book, but overall I'd still recommend this to any reader out there who enjoys a good suspenseful story with some romantic elements in the mix! Now, it's time to pick-up book 2!!
Cassie is a professor at Texas Tech university and is educated in everything military. She is so good at what she does that she helped create a video game that is revolved around war and combat with a very realistic feel. Unfortunately, the popularity she has received from the game has brought an admirer out of the woodwork who is now stalking her. With the help of Jake and the local PD, she needs to find the stalker and stop his antics before it is too late.
I really enjoyed that we had a very strong alpha male out of Jake and a strong woman with Cassie. I'm so happy that Christi focuses on these types of characters in her books because they are the characters that I come to love and enjoy to read about. You can tell there is a lot of chemistry between our two main characters, but with their high emotions it's hard for them to just admit it to each other...and sometimes themselves.
I also enjoyed the suspense that was filled throughout the entire book. You have no clue who the stalker is, and even when you get minor glimpses of who it could be...you are constantly questioning if you are reading into the actions/reactions of the characters correctly. Having a stalker is definitely no laughing matter, but Cassie wants to pretend that this person is harmless. However, when the actions of the stalker start becoming bolder and more dangerous, everyone has to focus at the issue at hand and stop things before it's too late.
I really enjoyed the story line of the book as well as some of the side characters, but I did have a few issues. Some of the conversations seemed very mechanical. They didn't flow as well as I would have liked. I also wish there was more of a confrontation between Cassie and Jake when they finally got around to the issue between them and what happened 6 months prior. Jake really did hurt Cassie on a level that should be a little harder to deal with than she did, and I was surprised at her level of forgiveness even before the really brought the issue up head on.
I also liked the twists that were thrown in with her stalker. I enjoyed that I was left in the dark about a lot of the characters and when things became clear I was in complete shock. The last few chapters of the book had me on the edge of my seat, I was trying to figure out how everything was going to be wrapped up. It is hard for me to say, but when everything finally climaxed with the stalker, it was so quick that it was hard to have a reaction. It was like I was built up and built up and then in one quick sentence everything was taken care of. :-( I was hoping for a little more action at the end with all of our characters and everything that was set-up. Although, I am very happy that it was a specific character that ended up ending things for the stalker...that felt just perfect to me...I can't really say much more than that or I'll give things away!
There are a few other things I'd like to mention, but I really can't because I loved reading about them as the story went along...things that I would be upset if someone would have told me about them prior to reading the book. I will also say that I LOVED how short the chapters were. It made me feel like the story was moving a long quickly AND it helped on the late nights of reading to say "Just one more chapter." and actually have the chapter not keep me up for another hour!
I also really enjoyed the side characters! Between Colton, War, Derek, Peneloe and Julie there is definitely some potential for future side stories/novellas. I'm excited to see how things go with Julie and Dr. Hottie and how things go between two of our other characters...that I can't mentioned their names because that was another twist in this story that I didn't see coming. :-D
Overall:
I really liked this first book in a romantic suspense series. The element of surprise was weaved throughout the book and had me guessing the whole time. Again, I enjoyed the main characters and I'm excited to see some of our other characters HEA occur...I'm also interested to see what other suspenseful stories Christi is going to be able to come up with for the next two books! :-D I had a few issues with the book, but overall I'd still recommend this to any reader out there who enjoys a good suspenseful story with some romantic elements in the mix! Now, it's time to pick-up book 2!!
May 9, 2015
Ms. Snow sure knows how to throw in some twist that you do not see coming. If you pay attention you can pick up a few hints here and there but the big turn you sure won’t see coming. This is the first time I have read her work, I have to say her writing style is outstanding there is no wonder this lady is a bestseller. She grabs your attention from the first page with this page turning attention getter suspense.
Is there anything worse than loving someone and promising her brother that you won’t lay a hand on her? Yes there is when the love of your life is being stalked and you have a hard time not letting your emotions get in the way trying to keep one bullhead, stubborn women safe why you keep your hands off said women.
Jake was there when Chris died he has a hard time dealing with he wasn’t able to save his best friend. One night of hot passion which makes him feel like a heel, he can’t forgive his self for giving in, he doesn’t know how to fix this, he only knows it can’t happen again. He walks away stays in touch but never goes back until he gets the call from her other brother that things aren’t right at home. Jake races home to find out the mystery. Cassie’s being stalked he must put his feelings aside and keep her save. This is where the book takes off with some very interesting military games of cat and mouse.
I adored Jake is very alpha knows what he wants but can’t have it. He tries so hard, there are many misunderstandings as only women and men can do. Even with Chris being dead he still gets in the way when it comes to Jakes feelings for Cassie. Jake is a military man who believes in honor, love, family and friends. He will die to keep those he loves safe. He does need to work out where his life needs to go, get his head on straight and decide if he can still be military when he let his best friend down in more than one way. Jake is an upstanding true hero as he servers his country why serving his friends memory.
Cassie is just a little spitfire who knows no bounds she is a take the bull by the horn kind of lady. She will do anything to protect those she loves. She does have a hard time believing her twin is dead they have always been able to know how the other feels won’t she know, feel that he was gone. This can’t be true add to the nightmares she having and one hot night of passion she doesn’t know which way is up. She only knows she has lost two men she loves more than anything in life. Now she has to handle a stalker who wants to play games of war which bring Jake running home to be by her side. How can she fight a stalker, deal with her brother’s death and fight her feelings for Jake.
I loved the plot the author gives you some wonderful twists and turns as she gives you a compelling story of lost, love, pain and sorrow. She throws in a mad man who thinks he has rights and he isn’t giving up the chase. Everyone plans to win but only one team can come out the winner it is whose guess which one that will be since the stalker is giving no hints. I really enjoy how this authors mind works as she pulls you in with mystery giving you just enough to drive you crazy to want to see who the stalker is. I had to slap my hands to not go to the end of the book to find out. The chemistry between Cassie and Jake is powerful and has been since they were young. You can feel the pull as these two dance around each other.
I loved the supporting characters, the author gives you just enough to pull you in at times you adore them and at other times you do not know what to think about them. For the most part I worked out a few things here and there but there are tons of surprises you won’t see coming. Cassie has wonderful friends who adore her she has a wonderful personality there is nothing you won’t love about this little spitfire.
I am really looking forward to reading more from this author and see what she has planned for me in the rest of this series. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves romance, action, suspense, thrills and surprise as she takes you on the hunt for a stalker on Endgames.
Is there anything worse than loving someone and promising her brother that you won’t lay a hand on her? Yes there is when the love of your life is being stalked and you have a hard time not letting your emotions get in the way trying to keep one bullhead, stubborn women safe why you keep your hands off said women.
Jake was there when Chris died he has a hard time dealing with he wasn’t able to save his best friend. One night of hot passion which makes him feel like a heel, he can’t forgive his self for giving in, he doesn’t know how to fix this, he only knows it can’t happen again. He walks away stays in touch but never goes back until he gets the call from her other brother that things aren’t right at home. Jake races home to find out the mystery. Cassie’s being stalked he must put his feelings aside and keep her save. This is where the book takes off with some very interesting military games of cat and mouse.
I adored Jake is very alpha knows what he wants but can’t have it. He tries so hard, there are many misunderstandings as only women and men can do. Even with Chris being dead he still gets in the way when it comes to Jakes feelings for Cassie. Jake is a military man who believes in honor, love, family and friends. He will die to keep those he loves safe. He does need to work out where his life needs to go, get his head on straight and decide if he can still be military when he let his best friend down in more than one way. Jake is an upstanding true hero as he servers his country why serving his friends memory.
Cassie is just a little spitfire who knows no bounds she is a take the bull by the horn kind of lady. She will do anything to protect those she loves. She does have a hard time believing her twin is dead they have always been able to know how the other feels won’t she know, feel that he was gone. This can’t be true add to the nightmares she having and one hot night of passion she doesn’t know which way is up. She only knows she has lost two men she loves more than anything in life. Now she has to handle a stalker who wants to play games of war which bring Jake running home to be by her side. How can she fight a stalker, deal with her brother’s death and fight her feelings for Jake.
I loved the plot the author gives you some wonderful twists and turns as she gives you a compelling story of lost, love, pain and sorrow. She throws in a mad man who thinks he has rights and he isn’t giving up the chase. Everyone plans to win but only one team can come out the winner it is whose guess which one that will be since the stalker is giving no hints. I really enjoy how this authors mind works as she pulls you in with mystery giving you just enough to drive you crazy to want to see who the stalker is. I had to slap my hands to not go to the end of the book to find out. The chemistry between Cassie and Jake is powerful and has been since they were young. You can feel the pull as these two dance around each other.
I loved the supporting characters, the author gives you just enough to pull you in at times you adore them and at other times you do not know what to think about them. For the most part I worked out a few things here and there but there are tons of surprises you won’t see coming. Cassie has wonderful friends who adore her she has a wonderful personality there is nothing you won’t love about this little spitfire.
I am really looking forward to reading more from this author and see what she has planned for me in the rest of this series. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves romance, action, suspense, thrills and surprise as she takes you on the hunt for a stalker on Endgames.
July 23, 2012
Have you ever just kind of stumbled upon a book? I was flipping through my updates on Goodreads last week and saw a comment about a review on Operation: End Game and it really peaked my interest. After doing a little bit more stalking… um.. snooping…. uh research, I discovered that this is the first book in Christi Snow’s When the Mission Ends Trilogy. After congratulating her on her new book, she thanked me and then offered me a copy for review. I was more than a little excited because the synopsis sounded intriguing. Let’s just say, I wasn’t disappointed. Once I loaded the book onto my Kindle, I couldn’t resist sneaking a peek at the prologue. Before I knew it, I was on Chapter 3… yeah, I was hooked – it honestly happened that fast. *sigh*
The prologue begins 20 years in the past. It introduces the main characters as children on the day that they met. It was a perfect beginning. When characters grab you and make you laugh out loud before the book even starts, you know you’re in for a treat. The story just kept getting better from there.
The relationship between Jake and Cassie isn’t forced at all. The fact that they have been as close as they have for most of their lives makes the inevitable love that grows between the two of them perfectly natural and at the same time, extremely intense. I loved these two together. Jake’s need to protect Cassie and his unspoken guilt pull him in different directions. That combined with Cassie’s misconception about Jake’s feelings and her crush that began years ago fuel the sexual tension that drives their relationship.
I only had one moment in the entire book that made me scream. At that moment Cassie did something so incredibly stupid that I honestly think I ‘yelled’ at her. It was just like one of those moments in a horror film when you yell at the character for doing something that you know is going to put them in danger but you can’t stop them AND you KNOW that they know better. It was minor and for the story to progress it needed to be done, but while I was reading the scene it just seemed ‘un-Cassie-like.’ Beyond that (and in all honesty, it may have been just me) the rest of the book was flawless.
The additional relationships between the supporting characters in Endgame were great. These characters were well developed and by the end you felt like you not only knew but could relate to them all. There were twists and turns, plenty of action, mystery and lots of romance. Basically, this book wasn’t lacking in any department. Christi’s writing flows well and was very easy to read and her dialog flows as flawlessly as the text. All of these points made Endgame a book that was very hard to put down. The climax takes you by surprise and even if you think you have the ‘who’ figured out, the ‘why’ will blow you away.
The next book in this trilogy comes out in January, and I can’t wait to read it. There is a description of each of the books on Christi Snow’s Blog. Cassie’s older brother Colton and her friend Penelope are the featured characters in Operation: Endeavor. Even though I’m looking forward to their story, I hope we haven’t seen the last of Cassie and Jake.
The prologue begins 20 years in the past. It introduces the main characters as children on the day that they met. It was a perfect beginning. When characters grab you and make you laugh out loud before the book even starts, you know you’re in for a treat. The story just kept getting better from there.
The relationship between Jake and Cassie isn’t forced at all. The fact that they have been as close as they have for most of their lives makes the inevitable love that grows between the two of them perfectly natural and at the same time, extremely intense. I loved these two together. Jake’s need to protect Cassie and his unspoken guilt pull him in different directions. That combined with Cassie’s misconception about Jake’s feelings and her crush that began years ago fuel the sexual tension that drives their relationship.
I only had one moment in the entire book that made me scream. At that moment Cassie did something so incredibly stupid that I honestly think I ‘yelled’ at her. It was just like one of those moments in a horror film when you yell at the character for doing something that you know is going to put them in danger but you can’t stop them AND you KNOW that they know better. It was minor and for the story to progress it needed to be done, but while I was reading the scene it just seemed ‘un-Cassie-like.’ Beyond that (and in all honesty, it may have been just me) the rest of the book was flawless.
The additional relationships between the supporting characters in Endgame were great. These characters were well developed and by the end you felt like you not only knew but could relate to them all. There were twists and turns, plenty of action, mystery and lots of romance. Basically, this book wasn’t lacking in any department. Christi’s writing flows well and was very easy to read and her dialog flows as flawlessly as the text. All of these points made Endgame a book that was very hard to put down. The climax takes you by surprise and even if you think you have the ‘who’ figured out, the ‘why’ will blow you away.
The next book in this trilogy comes out in January, and I can’t wait to read it. There is a description of each of the books on Christi Snow’s Blog. Cassie’s older brother Colton and her friend Penelope are the featured characters in Operation: Endeavor. Even though I’m looking forward to their story, I hope we haven’t seen the last of Cassie and Jake.
December 26, 2015
Review copy provided by author
Disclaimer: I know Christi as a fellow reader and book blogger in addition to being an author. That said, my review is completely my honest and unbiased opinion of this book.
Why I Read this Book: Romantic suspense is my go-to genre. I love it and can’t get enough.
What I Liked: The prologue really cemented the bond between Cassie, Chris, and Jake for me. From just that prologue, I grew emotionally attached to Chris. I mourned his death right along with Cassie, Jake, and Colton. And fans of the friends-since-childhood-turned-lovers trope will love watching the romance between Cassie and Jake blossom.
Cassie is a unique heroine. She turned her childhood passion for war games into a career. She’s a militant expert on war tactics and strategies and teaches a college-level course on the subject matter. She has also served as a militant consultant for a video game. This gives her an edge and set her apart from the normal everyday heroines.
Instead of telling the reader about an event or incident that took place, the author takes the reader there, back in the moment when it happened, with flashbacks. And these flashbacks are easily distinguishable from the present day happenings, which is important.
Just when I would think I had something figured out, there would be a turn of events that would prove me wrong. But I did have one assumption (a hunch really) about 75% into the book, which I quickly dismissed but turned out to be right. My notes actually say “Could it be [insert villain’s name here]? Nah.” The author definitely kept me on my toes with clever plot twists that I didn’t see coming.
What I Didn’t Like: I was surprised that none of the characters made the connection between the trinket Cassie received shortly after Chris’ death to the stalker. There was evidence to the connection that slipped right past them.
There was one scene where a security code was needed and too easily found. It felt too convenient for the characters.
Memorable Moment: The bathtub scene. Cassie’s injuries prevent her from being able to do certain tasks on her own so she asks Jake for assistance.
Overall Impression: Operation: Endgame is a balanced blend of romance, suspense, and mystery. I didn’t want to put this book down! I’m ready for more and can’t wait until January 2013 when Operation: Endeavor, book two in this series, releases.
Disclaimer: I know Christi as a fellow reader and book blogger in addition to being an author. That said, my review is completely my honest and unbiased opinion of this book.
Why I Read this Book: Romantic suspense is my go-to genre. I love it and can’t get enough.
What I Liked: The prologue really cemented the bond between Cassie, Chris, and Jake for me. From just that prologue, I grew emotionally attached to Chris. I mourned his death right along with Cassie, Jake, and Colton. And fans of the friends-since-childhood-turned-lovers trope will love watching the romance between Cassie and Jake blossom.
Cassie is a unique heroine. She turned her childhood passion for war games into a career. She’s a militant expert on war tactics and strategies and teaches a college-level course on the subject matter. She has also served as a militant consultant for a video game. This gives her an edge and set her apart from the normal everyday heroines.
Instead of telling the reader about an event or incident that took place, the author takes the reader there, back in the moment when it happened, with flashbacks. And these flashbacks are easily distinguishable from the present day happenings, which is important.
Just when I would think I had something figured out, there would be a turn of events that would prove me wrong. But I did have one assumption (a hunch really) about 75% into the book, which I quickly dismissed but turned out to be right. My notes actually say “Could it be [insert villain’s name here]? Nah.” The author definitely kept me on my toes with clever plot twists that I didn’t see coming.
What I Didn’t Like: I was surprised that none of the characters made the connection between the trinket Cassie received shortly after Chris’ death to the stalker. There was evidence to the connection that slipped right past them.
There was one scene where a security code was needed and too easily found. It felt too convenient for the characters.
Memorable Moment: The bathtub scene. Cassie’s injuries prevent her from being able to do certain tasks on her own so she asks Jake for assistance.
“Jake, relax. It’s just me, the girl you used to tie to the tree and abandon when we were little.”
“Can we not talk about bondage when you’re standing there looking so gorgeous in just your underwear and about to get naked?”
Overall Impression: Operation: Endgame is a balanced blend of romance, suspense, and mystery. I didn’t want to put this book down! I’m ready for more and can’t wait until January 2013 when Operation: Endeavor, book two in this series, releases.
November 18, 2015
http://www.blue-moon.fr/spip.php?arti...
Vous allez découvrir Christi Snow très prochainement avec ce premier tome d’une série qui comprend deux autres romans et une nouvelle. Cette auteure du Texas a commencé il y a quelques années sa carrière avec cette saga qui oscille entre romance contemporaine et military romance. Tous les héros sont, de près ou de loin, des militaires ; Tout repose sur une famille, composée de deux frères et d’une sœur. Viendra s’ajouter, et c’est ce qui constitue le prologue de cette histoire, un troisième larron, un voisin, qui va devenir le meilleur ami des jumeaux, Chris et Cassie. Les années vont passer et chacun va donc trouver sa place dans l’armée américaine.
Lorsque l’histoire commence, Cassie va apprendre la terrible nouvelle de la mort de son jumeau, Chris. Liés comme on peut l’imaginer, la jeune femme va vivre de terribles moments, compliqués encore par les relations complexes qu’elle entretient avec celui qui est devenu un compagnon de jeu et un peu plus au fil du temps. Jake est son ancien voisin, il est également dans l’armée. Tous deux nourrissent de tendres sentiments l’un pour l’autre sans le savoir.
Ce premier livre a une intrigue amoureuse plutôt simple. On comprend bien vite que seul l’aveuglement, de Jake surtout, les éloigne l’un de l’autre. Le petite plus est l’intrigue que l’auteure ajoute. Alors que Cassie se remet très difficilement de la mort de son frère, de mystérieuses menaces lui sont adressés par une personne qui la harcèle systématiquement. Cassie n’est pas du genre à se laisser impressionnée, elle enseigne la stratégie militaire à l’université. Si, on peut deviner assez rapidement ce qui se trame, la révélation de toute la vérité est très bien amenée et c’est très bien pensé.
La relation entre Jake et Cassie aurait pu être encore plus travaillée sans doute, plus approfondie et une fois de plus, ce qui les sépare est un peu ténu. Mais ils sont adorables tous les deux et Cassie, femme de caractère ne manque pas de charme. Autour d’eux gravitent pas mal de personnages secondaires, notamment des amies de Cassie dont on devine qu’elles auront droit à leur propre histoire, tout comme d’autres hommes dont l’autre frère de la jeune femme, Colton, plus âgée, très en contrôle et militaire lui aussi.
Le tout se déroule au moment de Noël, au Texas, ce qui est plutôt opportun puisque le roman sort en France dans cette période. De quoi faire la connaissance avec la romance simple, efficace et sensuelle de cette auteure. Si ce premier livre n’est pas parfait, il fait passer un bon moment, c’est déjà beaucoup !
Vous allez découvrir Christi Snow très prochainement avec ce premier tome d’une série qui comprend deux autres romans et une nouvelle. Cette auteure du Texas a commencé il y a quelques années sa carrière avec cette saga qui oscille entre romance contemporaine et military romance. Tous les héros sont, de près ou de loin, des militaires ; Tout repose sur une famille, composée de deux frères et d’une sœur. Viendra s’ajouter, et c’est ce qui constitue le prologue de cette histoire, un troisième larron, un voisin, qui va devenir le meilleur ami des jumeaux, Chris et Cassie. Les années vont passer et chacun va donc trouver sa place dans l’armée américaine.
Lorsque l’histoire commence, Cassie va apprendre la terrible nouvelle de la mort de son jumeau, Chris. Liés comme on peut l’imaginer, la jeune femme va vivre de terribles moments, compliqués encore par les relations complexes qu’elle entretient avec celui qui est devenu un compagnon de jeu et un peu plus au fil du temps. Jake est son ancien voisin, il est également dans l’armée. Tous deux nourrissent de tendres sentiments l’un pour l’autre sans le savoir.
Ce premier livre a une intrigue amoureuse plutôt simple. On comprend bien vite que seul l’aveuglement, de Jake surtout, les éloigne l’un de l’autre. Le petite plus est l’intrigue que l’auteure ajoute. Alors que Cassie se remet très difficilement de la mort de son frère, de mystérieuses menaces lui sont adressés par une personne qui la harcèle systématiquement. Cassie n’est pas du genre à se laisser impressionnée, elle enseigne la stratégie militaire à l’université. Si, on peut deviner assez rapidement ce qui se trame, la révélation de toute la vérité est très bien amenée et c’est très bien pensé.
La relation entre Jake et Cassie aurait pu être encore plus travaillée sans doute, plus approfondie et une fois de plus, ce qui les sépare est un peu ténu. Mais ils sont adorables tous les deux et Cassie, femme de caractère ne manque pas de charme. Autour d’eux gravitent pas mal de personnages secondaires, notamment des amies de Cassie dont on devine qu’elles auront droit à leur propre histoire, tout comme d’autres hommes dont l’autre frère de la jeune femme, Colton, plus âgée, très en contrôle et militaire lui aussi.
Le tout se déroule au moment de Noël, au Texas, ce qui est plutôt opportun puisque le roman sort en France dans cette période. De quoi faire la connaissance avec la romance simple, efficace et sensuelle de cette auteure. Si ce premier livre n’est pas parfait, il fait passer un bon moment, c’est déjà beaucoup !
October 28, 2012
The Three Musketeers grow up together playing war games. Chris, Cassie and the neighbor, Jake. They terrorized the neighborhood of their Texas town. This practice led them to their careers as adults. Cassie is a professor of military strategy at Texas Tech, Chris a pilot and Jake a parajumper in the Air Force. And that friendship is the strongest and most lasting thing in all their lives.
The death of Chris during a mission gone wrong in Columbia devastates Cassie and Jake. Jake feels the guilt that his crew couldn’t get to Chris fast enough. Cassie is haunted by nightmares of Chris’ torture in Columbia. She can’t really move on with a constant reminder and a nagging feeling. When these two look to each other to console their grief, is it right or wrong? This night of passion threatens to tear apart even their friendship.
Six months later, Cassie isn’t her self. She has a stalker and the love of her life is back in town. Jake has been sent by her older brother, Colton, to go check on her. Forced to be with each other night and day, Jake struggles with a promise he once made to Chris–”hands off his sister.” Jake, if anything, is honorable. These two walk through a daily tango of keeping Cassie safe and trying to figure out where their relationship is. There is action, suspense and twists and turns before it comes to an end.
This book had me endeared to these three kids that grew up together. And it had me crying in the first 20 pages. The characters are strong, independent and lovable. Cassie is a smart and passionate expert in military strategy. She commands attention without giving up her femininity. Jake is strong, sensitive, tortured and had me melting like butter with “darling” spoken in a Texas drawl. You can’t help but love Chris through the eyes Cassie and Jake’s love for him. It was a one seat read for me. I couldn’t put it down. I love friendships that turn romantic. And Christi Snow knew just how to torture me, by teasing and delaying my gratification.
Their childhood love of things military and their grown up commitment to it made a very interesting backdrop. The stalker is pulled to Cassie, because of her work on the Operation: Endgame video game. It creates ample anxiety to keep Cassie and Jake bound together and see them in action using their knowledge.
Sometimes a girl has to save herself and the man she loves.
The death of Chris during a mission gone wrong in Columbia devastates Cassie and Jake. Jake feels the guilt that his crew couldn’t get to Chris fast enough. Cassie is haunted by nightmares of Chris’ torture in Columbia. She can’t really move on with a constant reminder and a nagging feeling. When these two look to each other to console their grief, is it right or wrong? This night of passion threatens to tear apart even their friendship.
Six months later, Cassie isn’t her self. She has a stalker and the love of her life is back in town. Jake has been sent by her older brother, Colton, to go check on her. Forced to be with each other night and day, Jake struggles with a promise he once made to Chris–”hands off his sister.” Jake, if anything, is honorable. These two walk through a daily tango of keeping Cassie safe and trying to figure out where their relationship is. There is action, suspense and twists and turns before it comes to an end.
This book had me endeared to these three kids that grew up together. And it had me crying in the first 20 pages. The characters are strong, independent and lovable. Cassie is a smart and passionate expert in military strategy. She commands attention without giving up her femininity. Jake is strong, sensitive, tortured and had me melting like butter with “darling” spoken in a Texas drawl. You can’t help but love Chris through the eyes Cassie and Jake’s love for him. It was a one seat read for me. I couldn’t put it down. I love friendships that turn romantic. And Christi Snow knew just how to torture me, by teasing and delaying my gratification.
Their childhood love of things military and their grown up commitment to it made a very interesting backdrop. The stalker is pulled to Cassie, because of her work on the Operation: Endgame video game. It creates ample anxiety to keep Cassie and Jake bound together and see them in action using their knowledge.
Sometimes a girl has to save herself and the man she loves.
July 30, 2013
Operation: Endgame is book one in the When The Misson Ends Trilogy by Christi Snow. Jake, Chris and Cassie have all been friends since childhood and have all gone on to be successful in their own fields. There has always been an attraction between Jake and Cassie but neither give into the feelings untill tragedy strikes. When it looks like Chris has been killed Cassie looks to Jake for comfort and gets more than either expected.
Fast forward 6 months, Jake is on medical leave from the Airforce. He has been avoiding Cassie because he regrets what happened between them. Cassie's older brother contacts Jake feeling there is something wrong with Cassie. There is, she has her very own stalker. Of course Jake charges to the rescue to keep her safe. Jake has all these reasons he is convincing himself he doesn't want a romantic relationship with Cassie.
Cassie has no such reservations but she isn't going to force herself on Jake. Jake might be acting all bristling, protective male. Cassie just writes that off as big brother like behaviour. While Jake was playing hot and cold with Cassie. I just sort of lost interest in the romance. Cassie was great, intelligent and take charge. I was invested in her finding out who her stalker was. I just wasn't as invested to find out if she ended up with Jake. As a hero Jake left me a bit frustrated and flat.
There is always that "Who is it?" aspect to books where someone is being stalked. The closer the stalker appears to be, the more people turn into suspects. I really enjoyed the mystery and must say was a little surprised with the outcome. But I will hint there were clues along the way! I did enjoy Operation: Endgame and I will read the next book in the series. Christi Snow writes great action and suspense, I liked Christi Snow writing style, she introduced an interesting cast of characters and set them up nicely with back stories. Operation: Endgame did have the feeling of a big budget action movie towards the end. But being a little unrealistic didn't bother me. It just seemed like part of the ride!
Fast forward 6 months, Jake is on medical leave from the Airforce. He has been avoiding Cassie because he regrets what happened between them. Cassie's older brother contacts Jake feeling there is something wrong with Cassie. There is, she has her very own stalker. Of course Jake charges to the rescue to keep her safe. Jake has all these reasons he is convincing himself he doesn't want a romantic relationship with Cassie.
Cassie has no such reservations but she isn't going to force herself on Jake. Jake might be acting all bristling, protective male. Cassie just writes that off as big brother like behaviour. While Jake was playing hot and cold with Cassie. I just sort of lost interest in the romance. Cassie was great, intelligent and take charge. I was invested in her finding out who her stalker was. I just wasn't as invested to find out if she ended up with Jake. As a hero Jake left me a bit frustrated and flat.
There is always that "Who is it?" aspect to books where someone is being stalked. The closer the stalker appears to be, the more people turn into suspects. I really enjoyed the mystery and must say was a little surprised with the outcome. But I will hint there were clues along the way! I did enjoy Operation: Endgame and I will read the next book in the series. Christi Snow writes great action and suspense, I liked Christi Snow writing style, she introduced an interesting cast of characters and set them up nicely with back stories. Operation: Endgame did have the feeling of a big budget action movie towards the end. But being a little unrealistic didn't bother me. It just seemed like part of the ride!
July 18, 2017
★3.75/5 ★
Que voilà un sympathique romantic-suspense !
Après un prologue très attendrissant, centré sur le trio infernal Cass, Chris (des jumeaux) et Jake, on retrouve les personnages des années plus tard. Devenus adultes, ils sont toujours aussi proches les uns des autres, mais un drame va bientôt les frapper et Chris va mourir dans de dramatiques circonstances, liées à son job de pilote dans l'armée.
Jake et Cass vont devoir faire face à cette perte, tout comme Colt, le frère ainé des jumeaux. Jake & Cass vont franchir la ligne jaune et enfin céder à leur attirance, mais cela va compliquer les choses, vous vous en doutez.
Quelques mois plus tard, Jake va venir retrouver Cass, maintenant en danger. Elle est en effet harcelée par une mystérieuse personne, ce qui va donner lieu à de l'action, une bonne dose de suspense, et une intrigue aux ramifications surprenantes.
Pour moi qui adore les histoires d'amitié et d'amour, je dois dire que j'ai été gâtée ! La romance est belle, sensuelle et tendre, le couple est craquant à souhait et le héros est délicieusement appétissant. Ils prennent leur temps, ce qui laisse la tension sexuelle s'installer, pour notre plus grand bonheur. J'ai eu un faible pour certaines scènes, comme celle du tatouage, tellement porteuse de sens ... J'ai craqué pour Jake, si amoureux et protecteur, mais alors, il a de sacrées œillères ! Et Cass est une nana qui en jette, comme on dit, elle n'est pas du genre à céder à la panique, c'est une fille plutôt posée et sympa, futée et pas geignarde pour deux sous. Ils forment un très joli couple, très complice et très amoureux.
Les personnages secondaires sont bien développés, on en retrouvera certains dans les tomes suivants, d'ailleurs.
Malgré une fin trop rapide à mon goût (c'est hélas souvent le cas dans les RS), j'ai trouvé ce livre bien ficelé, les rebondissements sont plausibles et les quelques surprises qui émaillent le récit apportent du rythme à l'ensemble.
C'est un bon premier tome qui installe tranquillement la série, très romantique et passionné, j'ai vraiment passé un bon moment !
Que voilà un sympathique romantic-suspense !
Après un prologue très attendrissant, centré sur le trio infernal Cass, Chris (des jumeaux) et Jake, on retrouve les personnages des années plus tard. Devenus adultes, ils sont toujours aussi proches les uns des autres, mais un drame va bientôt les frapper et Chris va mourir dans de dramatiques circonstances, liées à son job de pilote dans l'armée.
Jake et Cass vont devoir faire face à cette perte, tout comme Colt, le frère ainé des jumeaux. Jake & Cass vont franchir la ligne jaune et enfin céder à leur attirance, mais cela va compliquer les choses, vous vous en doutez.
Quelques mois plus tard, Jake va venir retrouver Cass, maintenant en danger. Elle est en effet harcelée par une mystérieuse personne, ce qui va donner lieu à de l'action, une bonne dose de suspense, et une intrigue aux ramifications surprenantes.
Pour moi qui adore les histoires d'amitié et d'amour, je dois dire que j'ai été gâtée ! La romance est belle, sensuelle et tendre, le couple est craquant à souhait et le héros est délicieusement appétissant. Ils prennent leur temps, ce qui laisse la tension sexuelle s'installer, pour notre plus grand bonheur. J'ai eu un faible pour certaines scènes, comme celle du tatouage, tellement porteuse de sens ... J'ai craqué pour Jake, si amoureux et protecteur, mais alors, il a de sacrées œillères ! Et Cass est une nana qui en jette, comme on dit, elle n'est pas du genre à céder à la panique, c'est une fille plutôt posée et sympa, futée et pas geignarde pour deux sous. Ils forment un très joli couple, très complice et très amoureux.
Les personnages secondaires sont bien développés, on en retrouvera certains dans les tomes suivants, d'ailleurs.
Malgré une fin trop rapide à mon goût (c'est hélas souvent le cas dans les RS), j'ai trouvé ce livre bien ficelé, les rebondissements sont plausibles et les quelques surprises qui émaillent le récit apportent du rythme à l'ensemble.
C'est un bon premier tome qui installe tranquillement la série, très romantique et passionné, j'ai vraiment passé un bon moment !
September 29, 2012
Read this review on my blog! --> Book Travels
I love a good Romance when there’s some action on the background, it makes things more real and the present always sounds like the best time to act and reveal the feelings for another character.
This book was on my wishlist simply because I follow the author blog and after seeing this gorgeous cover for the first time, he managed to became interesting, but after Christi asked me if I wanted a review copy, we can all guess I jumped on the opportunity. And that was the first time I actually read the series summary and knew those characters were going to make me swoon.
The book gives us two perspectives: one is from the past and it’s set 20 years ago, but explain how the characters met and why is so important their friendship; the other is present and where all the dangerous is happening.
The book started with Chris death and this affected his family and friends. We can see Cassie and Jake together for the first time and also the stalker shows up for a sec. But everything really took a turn for the worst six months after Chris funeral and Jake discovered Cassie was in dangerous.
I liked Cassie and how strong and determined she is, especially with three older guys bossing in her she still managed to be a professional and beautiful girl.
But Jake was not so great for me. He was unsure what to do with his life and afraid to follow in his love because of a friendship but the problem is how he just flipped one night and it was like a complete different person. But he was always protective of Cassie and I understand he’s conflict, but the change was to fast for me and I was hoping for a bit seduction before he relented.
The action scenes were really great and it felt like so real, that I connected why Cassie anguish and Jake terror.
January 27, 2013
I love Romantic Suspense so I was pretty excited to read this. And I am glad to say it did not disappoint.
We start out seeing Cassie, Jake and Chris when they first meet at children. Then fast forward years later when they are adults and settled in their chosen careers. Which is when tragedy strikes and Chris' plane goes down while on a mission. Jake is there for her and the heat between them flares up in one night they will never forget. Feeling he betrayed his best friend he goes back to active duty and tries to forget.
Months later we learn Cassie has a stalker using an identity from a video game she consulted on and became famous for. Finding out she is in trouble Jake comes back to do everything he can to help her.
Now we have romantic tension, mystery and suspense all rolled together and they come to make an excellent story. I enjoyed learning about Cassie and Jake and watching their relationship try to move past the friendship stage without breaking apart. And the mystery of who is after Cassie is well done and the stalker comes out as a character that is hard to expect as are the reasonings behind the why she is a target.
This was an excellent story that I didnt want to put down once I started. I was immediately drawn in and loved all the characters both main and secondary. I only wish the next two books were coming out sooner. I cant wait to read more stories of these officers and their perfect match.
We start out seeing Cassie, Jake and Chris when they first meet at children. Then fast forward years later when they are adults and settled in their chosen careers. Which is when tragedy strikes and Chris' plane goes down while on a mission. Jake is there for her and the heat between them flares up in one night they will never forget. Feeling he betrayed his best friend he goes back to active duty and tries to forget.
Months later we learn Cassie has a stalker using an identity from a video game she consulted on and became famous for. Finding out she is in trouble Jake comes back to do everything he can to help her.
Now we have romantic tension, mystery and suspense all rolled together and they come to make an excellent story. I enjoyed learning about Cassie and Jake and watching their relationship try to move past the friendship stage without breaking apart. And the mystery of who is after Cassie is well done and the stalker comes out as a character that is hard to expect as are the reasonings behind the why she is a target.
This was an excellent story that I didnt want to put down once I started. I was immediately drawn in and loved all the characters both main and secondary. I only wish the next two books were coming out sooner. I cant wait to read more stories of these officers and their perfect match.
January 14, 2013
this book has mainly 4 or 5 star rating (granted that they are not that many but still) and I really don't understand how/why
This is not a very good book..there is A LOT of typos and stuff that doesn't add up like the fact that she's broken her collarbone and has her arm in a sling and still manage to move both her hands up in the air and to use both her arms/hands on occasion...
the storyline is..... I don't know what to say other that that it is so unbelievable and juvenile and stupid..the suspense part is laughable and the female lead is such a stupid woman..she's supposed to be some kind of military strategic expert but when she is being stalked she is such a stupid person, she won't believe he or he or he could do that...she goes out to throw away the trash alone when someone is threatening her...and that's just one example.
And Jake doesn't tell the police that the guy at the coffee house is a bit creepy..eh..why not...they talk about her students but he doesn't mention the guy that basically threatening him...yeah right because you wouldn't suspect someone acting like that would yo *roll eyes*
as a reader you knew right away thats him, thats the stalker, and you also knew who the acomplich was...but the big military expert guy had no clue...*facepalm*
seriously don't waste your time reading this
This is not a very good book..there is A LOT of typos and stuff that doesn't add up like the fact that she's broken her collarbone and has her arm in a sling and still manage to move both her hands up in the air and to use both her arms/hands on occasion...
the storyline is..... I don't know what to say other that that it is so unbelievable and juvenile and stupid..the suspense part is laughable and the female lead is such a stupid woman..she's supposed to be some kind of military strategic expert but when she is being stalked she is such a stupid person, she won't believe he or he or he could do that...she goes out to throw away the trash alone when someone is threatening her...and that's just one example.
And Jake doesn't tell the police that the guy at the coffee house is a bit creepy..eh..why not...they talk about her students but he doesn't mention the guy that basically threatening him...yeah right because you wouldn't suspect someone acting like that would yo *roll eyes*
as a reader you knew right away thats him, thats the stalker, and you also knew who the acomplich was...but the big military expert guy had no clue...*facepalm*
seriously don't waste your time reading this
July 23, 2012
I read a lot of romance but not usually Romantic Suspense and the reason I'm going to start reading more is Operation: Endgame. There was a lovely balance of action and romance. I loved both the main characters, Jake and Cassie. They were both strong, well developed, and likable. The combo of these two was something I found myself rooting for. I enjoyed the fact that they had a long history that showed that great romance can blossom over time. I find the whirlwind love stories in most romance novels a little far fetched. The flashbacks really helped to reveal their story and give us insight into these two awesome characters. The sex was sizzling, descriptive, and I just wish there was a lot more of it!
The action and suspense in this story really kept me turning the pages. I was kept guessing and I really love when a book isn't too obvious. The foreshadowing was so subtle and the attention to detail impressive. I appreciated the complex villain as well as the likable supporting cast, they added a lot of dimension to this book. Overall, I found this book extremely well written, the pacing was nice, the characters were well developed, and I really enjoyed that I didn't see the twists coming. This book left me wanting more and I can't wait for the next book!
The action and suspense in this story really kept me turning the pages. I was kept guessing and I really love when a book isn't too obvious. The foreshadowing was so subtle and the attention to detail impressive. I appreciated the complex villain as well as the likable supporting cast, they added a lot of dimension to this book. Overall, I found this book extremely well written, the pacing was nice, the characters were well developed, and I really enjoyed that I didn't see the twists coming. This book left me wanting more and I can't wait for the next book!
May 5, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. Jake and Cassie were instantly likeable characters for me, both going through a hard loss and conflicting emotions.
Cassie has always been crazy about Jake, and Jake promised her twin brother he would never cross the line of being friends with her. Now that he is dead, Jake is battling with these wants as well as guilt that he couldn't save him.
The chemistry between these two characters is great and I liked that it went back and forth between them. At a couple points I did want to wring Jake's neck and be like "Quit being stupid. She obviously likes you, bro!"
Alas, there were bigger fish to fry so I refrained from harming the muscely Jake. Cassie has a stalker and they continue to ramp up their advances throughout this story. The suspense in this story is great. I had my suspicions but was not able to piece everything together before the author's big reveal so I have to applaud her on that.
There are other great twists and turns. At one point I actually dropped my phone in shock--I was reading on my kindle app. This is why I have a phone case :)
I'm excited to read the next in this series!
Cassie has always been crazy about Jake, and Jake promised her twin brother he would never cross the line of being friends with her. Now that he is dead, Jake is battling with these wants as well as guilt that he couldn't save him.
The chemistry between these two characters is great and I liked that it went back and forth between them. At a couple points I did want to wring Jake's neck and be like "Quit being stupid. She obviously likes you, bro!"
Alas, there were bigger fish to fry so I refrained from harming the muscely Jake. Cassie has a stalker and they continue to ramp up their advances throughout this story. The suspense in this story is great. I had my suspicions but was not able to piece everything together before the author's big reveal so I have to applaud her on that.
There are other great twists and turns. At one point I actually dropped my phone in shock--I was reading on my kindle app. This is why I have a phone case :)
I'm excited to read the next in this series!
May 17, 2013
Eh... this book was just okay for me. Mainly because it was too predictable. I figured out who the stalker was way before it was revealed, although the accomplices were a nice touch. I figured out the whole War/ Derrick thing, it was pretty obvious. I figured out the camera...duh. I also knew her dreams were real, although how it all tied together was a little whacky, but good. I liked Cassie and Jake's characters, but I thought it was a little ridiculous how long they let it go on...I mean 20 years? geesh. Also, if I was romantically involved with a friend of 20 years...no matter what the circumstances, I am pretty sure I would talk it out with them, not run and avoid for 6 months. ..but that's just me. For two people so brave and strong and loyal, you would think they could a little conversation eben if just to say, hey, we were grieving and no matter what, we have been friends for far too long to let anything get in the way....just my thoughts
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2012
Fabulous read! The author kept me guessing throughout the book... just as I thought I had it all figured out... there was a new twist to the story or a new character that came into play and had me second guessing my theories. I loved the sizzling chemistry between Cassie and Jake... even though they kept trying to deny their love for each other... admiting only to friendship... the reader could tell their bonds ran much deeper than being just life long friends. There were some surprises along their journey to happily ever after... one of which I was just so thrilled about... you'll have to read it to find out all the details... Amazing job, Ms. Snow... I recommend OPERATION: Endgame to anyone who loves a romantic story entwined with a dazzling plot.
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