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Elite Ops #1
Hard Target
The first installment in the Elite Ops series, featuring sexy ex-military men ... and the women who rescue their hearts.
Former DEA agent Leland Hollis wasn't planning on being a hero. Recovering from an injury sustained during a drug bust gone wrong and with more personal demons than he cares to admit, he wants nothing more than peace and a chance to rebuild his life. But when Anna Mercado's crazy ex shows up wielding a baseball bat, Leland can't ignore his instinct to help. And after her son is kidnapped, Leland agrees to deliver the ransom into dangerous territory south of the border.
Anna has no choice but to go with this stranger she's just met if she ever wants to see her son again. But getting the boy out of a violent cartel region involves risking everything. And for that Leland will have to convince Anna to do the scariest thing of all … open her heart and trust him.
Former DEA agent Leland Hollis wasn't planning on being a hero. Recovering from an injury sustained during a drug bust gone wrong and with more personal demons than he cares to admit, he wants nothing more than peace and a chance to rebuild his life. But when Anna Mercado's crazy ex shows up wielding a baseball bat, Leland can't ignore his instinct to help. And after her son is kidnapped, Leland agrees to deliver the ransom into dangerous territory south of the border.
Anna has no choice but to go with this stranger she's just met if she ever wants to see her son again. But getting the boy out of a violent cartel region involves risking everything. And for that Leland will have to convince Anna to do the scariest thing of all … open her heart and trust him.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2013
18 people are currently reading
1087 people want to read
About the author
Kay Thomas
99 books464 followersI didn’t grow up burning to be a writer. As a child I wasn’t even much of a reader until fourth grade. That’s when I was stuck at home with the flu and my big sister read THE BLACK STALLION aloud to me. For hours I was enthralled—shipwrecked in a foreign land and riding an untamed horse across the hot desert sand. Then tragedy struck. My sister lost her voice. (I think she caught my flu.) But I couldn’t wait to hear what happened to Alec Ramsey—so I picked up that book, finished reading it by myself, and went in search of more adventures at the local library. Today I live in Dallas with my husband, our two children, and a shockingly-spoiled Boston terrier.
In November 2013, HARD TARGET: Elite Ops-Book 1 was released in my new series from Avon Impulse, featuring sexy ex-military men...and the women who rescue their hearts. HARD TARGET received an Award of Merit in the HOLT Medallion Contest and was also a nominee for best romantic suspense in the GDRWA Booksellers Best Awards. PERSONAL TARGET, book two in the series, released in 2014 followed by EASY TARGET (Elite Ops 3) in 2015. For excerpts, book trailers, and more—visit my website at www.KayThomas.net
And to keep up with my latest releases, sign up for my Kay Thomas "Bullet Points" Newsletter. I only send them out when I have a new book and the list is never shared, so you'll only hear from me: http://eepurl.com/Pup1
I can also be found online at Facebook: www.facebook.com/KayThomasWrites
Twitter:
www.Twitter.com/KayThomasWrites
Pinterest:
www.pinterest.com/KayThomasWrites
Instagram:
www.instagram.com/KayThomasWrites
In addition to their US releases, my national best-selling books have been published in France, the Netherlands, Estonia, Australia, the UK and South Africa. BULLETPROOF HEARTS (April 2011), won the 2012 HOLT Medallion in Short Contemporary and was a finalist in the National Readers' Choice Awards. My debut novel, BETTER THAN BULLETPROOF (January 2009) was a HOLT Medallion Award of Merit recipient, a Readers’ Crown finalist, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice nominee.
In November 2013, HARD TARGET: Elite Ops-Book 1 was released in my new series from Avon Impulse, featuring sexy ex-military men...and the women who rescue their hearts. HARD TARGET received an Award of Merit in the HOLT Medallion Contest and was also a nominee for best romantic suspense in the GDRWA Booksellers Best Awards. PERSONAL TARGET, book two in the series, released in 2014 followed by EASY TARGET (Elite Ops 3) in 2015. For excerpts, book trailers, and more—visit my website at www.KayThomas.net
And to keep up with my latest releases, sign up for my Kay Thomas "Bullet Points" Newsletter. I only send them out when I have a new book and the list is never shared, so you'll only hear from me: http://eepurl.com/Pup1
I can also be found online at Facebook: www.facebook.com/KayThomasWrites
Twitter:
www.Twitter.com/KayThomasWrites
Pinterest:
www.pinterest.com/KayThomasWrites
Instagram:
www.instagram.com/KayThomasWrites
In addition to their US releases, my national best-selling books have been published in France, the Netherlands, Estonia, Australia, the UK and South Africa. BULLETPROOF HEARTS (April 2011), won the 2012 HOLT Medallion in Short Contemporary and was a finalist in the National Readers' Choice Awards. My debut novel, BETTER THAN BULLETPROOF (January 2009) was a HOLT Medallion Award of Merit recipient, a Readers’ Crown finalist, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice nominee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 6, 2015
REVIEW OF AUDIOBOOK; MARCH 5, 2015
Story: 3.5 stars
Narrator: P J Ochlan: 5 stars
The second half the story was eventful, with some good tense moments but the author used some lame, trite devices - a bodyguard fumbling with his weapon's trigger mechanism, giving Leland the opportunity to shoot him. Better to say his weapon jammed than to have Max's personal bodyguard "fumble" with the trigger; using a TV drama serial trope where the cavalry arrives only after the bad guys are killed by the hero.
I didn't buy into the romance at all. In fact, for a romantic suspense, the romance didn't fit. Anna was, justifiably so, too distraught over her son's abduction, too anxious and fearful having to cross over to Mexico with $750,000 cash, to be thinking of sex or romance. But she does. As for Leland, he's been wanting in her pants from the starting line so despite his own protests, the two go for it.
But it's coitus interruptus so the first sex scene is unfinished, unsexy and unnecessary. The second sex scene gets finished but was totally unbelievable for me considering the circumstances (No spoilers. Go read for yourself). The romance - or the lack of it - is what lost the book a star. I thought the suspense/action thread was good and if the author had made this a non-romance thriller, it would likely be better. Instead, the opportunity to develop a romance was practically non-existent, considering the situation the MCs were in, so when the author puts it in, nonetheless, it ended up unromantic and ill-fitting.
I finished the book despite not being very satisfied with the execution, and still intend to listen to the second installment. Hopefully, the overall writing improves because it still has an amateurish feel to it. For the most part, the Mexicans Leland and Anna encounter in that remote town up in the mountains didn't sound Mexican but more like Americans imitating Speedy Gonzales.
P J Ochlan, the narrator, was good. He gave the narrative portion an accentless voice but gave Leland an accent "only heard in the land of magnolia blossoms and the blues" (Reminded me of LaSalle from NCIS New Orleans) Ochlan's voice for Anna and her son, Zach, were very good, too. Zach sounded like the 14 year-old he is and Anna was a husky but feminine-sounding female. Not all male narrators can pull this off and the smart ones, like Slezak, choose to merely soften their voices for the female characters.
Without doubt, it was Ochlan that enabled me to finish this audiobook and who makes me want to try the next installment.
Story: 3.5 stars
Narrator: P J Ochlan: 5 stars
The second half the story was eventful, with some good tense moments but the author used some lame, trite devices - a bodyguard fumbling with his weapon's trigger mechanism, giving Leland the opportunity to shoot him. Better to say his weapon jammed than to have Max's personal bodyguard "fumble" with the trigger; using a TV drama serial trope where the cavalry arrives only after the bad guys are killed by the hero.
I didn't buy into the romance at all. In fact, for a romantic suspense, the romance didn't fit. Anna was, justifiably so, too distraught over her son's abduction, too anxious and fearful having to cross over to Mexico with $750,000 cash, to be thinking of sex or romance. But she does. As for Leland, he's been wanting in her pants from the starting line so despite his own protests, the two go for it.
But it's coitus interruptus so the first sex scene is unfinished, unsexy and unnecessary. The second sex scene gets finished but was totally unbelievable for me considering the circumstances (No spoilers. Go read for yourself). The romance - or the lack of it - is what lost the book a star. I thought the suspense/action thread was good and if the author had made this a non-romance thriller, it would likely be better. Instead, the opportunity to develop a romance was practically non-existent, considering the situation the MCs were in, so when the author puts it in, nonetheless, it ended up unromantic and ill-fitting.
I finished the book despite not being very satisfied with the execution, and still intend to listen to the second installment. Hopefully, the overall writing improves because it still has an amateurish feel to it. For the most part, the Mexicans Leland and Anna encounter in that remote town up in the mountains didn't sound Mexican but more like Americans imitating Speedy Gonzales.
P J Ochlan, the narrator, was good. He gave the narrative portion an accentless voice but gave Leland an accent "only heard in the land of magnolia blossoms and the blues" (Reminded me of LaSalle from NCIS New Orleans) Ochlan's voice for Anna and her son, Zach, were very good, too. Zach sounded like the 14 year-old he is and Anna was a husky but feminine-sounding female. Not all male narrators can pull this off and the smart ones, like Slezak, choose to merely soften their voices for the female characters.
Without doubt, it was Ochlan that enabled me to finish this audiobook and who makes me want to try the next installment.
November 17, 2013
Originally published at The Book Pushers
If you are able, like the White Queen in Alice in Wonderland, to “believe six impossible things before breakfast” then you will probably get a kick out of this romantic suspense/bodyguard romance/heroine in jeopardy/mother’s ultimate sacrifice story.
Unfortunately for me, it tripped my “willing suspension of disbelief” meter early in the first chapter. I hung on for the ride because I promised to review this one for Library Journal, and I’m going to have the devil’s own time writing a version of this review that fits under 250 words. Wish me luck?
Anna Mercado’s estranged husband is “The Tequila King” in Mexico. And their 14-year-old son is on the waiting list for a heart transplant. Meanwhile, she’s agreed to one last holiday weekend in Cancun as a family before their son has surgery in Dallas to get a LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) to buy him some time while the hospital keeps looking for a heart donor. She overhears her husband on the phone planning to kidnap their son and have her killed.
So she “steals” their passports and overnight case and escapes back to Dallas. Her husband catches up to them at a Best Western motel (doesn't that sound suitably prosaic) and starts beating her with a baseball bat. Even more stereotypical. This scene is interrupted by DEA agent Leland Hollis who is hiding out at that very Best Western from a Mexican drug cartel while recuperating from a busted ankle.
The DEA agent gets the baseball bat wielding husband arrested. This should be the end, but of course, it isn't. The kid gets kidnapped and a ransom is demanded. The DEA agent and Anna get sent on an incredibly wild goose chase back to cartel country with the ransom money. And equally expectedly, this whole case really doesn't have anything to do with the ransom money after all.
Not only is the kid’s dad involved with the cartels up to his slimy neck, but this plot is so stinkingly convoluted that it is worthy of the most tear-jerky kind of soap opera, the kind where a mother will do absolutely anything to save her child.
Including sacrifice her life. Including have sex with the nearly-but-not-quite washed-up agent who might save their lives, and might save himself.
If you’re thinking that Anna and the DEA agent figure out that they are in love with each other when it’s almost-but-not-quite too late, of course they do. If you enjoy trips to cliche-city by way of troperville, this train visits all the stops.
I give Hard Target a D+
If you are able, like the White Queen in Alice in Wonderland, to “believe six impossible things before breakfast” then you will probably get a kick out of this romantic suspense/bodyguard romance/heroine in jeopardy/mother’s ultimate sacrifice story.
Unfortunately for me, it tripped my “willing suspension of disbelief” meter early in the first chapter. I hung on for the ride because I promised to review this one for Library Journal, and I’m going to have the devil’s own time writing a version of this review that fits under 250 words. Wish me luck?
Anna Mercado’s estranged husband is “The Tequila King” in Mexico. And their 14-year-old son is on the waiting list for a heart transplant. Meanwhile, she’s agreed to one last holiday weekend in Cancun as a family before their son has surgery in Dallas to get a LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) to buy him some time while the hospital keeps looking for a heart donor. She overhears her husband on the phone planning to kidnap their son and have her killed.
So she “steals” their passports and overnight case and escapes back to Dallas. Her husband catches up to them at a Best Western motel (doesn't that sound suitably prosaic) and starts beating her with a baseball bat. Even more stereotypical. This scene is interrupted by DEA agent Leland Hollis who is hiding out at that very Best Western from a Mexican drug cartel while recuperating from a busted ankle.
The DEA agent gets the baseball bat wielding husband arrested. This should be the end, but of course, it isn't. The kid gets kidnapped and a ransom is demanded. The DEA agent and Anna get sent on an incredibly wild goose chase back to cartel country with the ransom money. And equally expectedly, this whole case really doesn't have anything to do with the ransom money after all.
Not only is the kid’s dad involved with the cartels up to his slimy neck, but this plot is so stinkingly convoluted that it is worthy of the most tear-jerky kind of soap opera, the kind where a mother will do absolutely anything to save her child.
Including sacrifice her life. Including have sex with the nearly-but-not-quite washed-up agent who might save their lives, and might save himself.
If you’re thinking that Anna and the DEA agent figure out that they are in love with each other when it’s almost-but-not-quite too late, of course they do. If you enjoy trips to cliche-city by way of troperville, this train visits all the stops.
I give Hard Target a D+
November 18, 2013
Very fasted paced with tons of action and drama.
The two main characters certainly have their fair share of problems. Anna Mercado is in Mexico to give her son who needs a heart transplant one last vacation with his father before he is admitted into the hospital. Anna had left Max over his infidelities but was willing to reconcile for a short while to make her son happy. When she accidentally over hears Max plotting her death and the kidnapping of her son she takes him and goes to Dallas where he is to soon receive a LVAD to help until a donor can be found.
Leland Hollis was a DEA Agent that was part of a mission that went horribly wrong. He just turned in his resignation and is recovering from a wound sustained on that ill fated mission. Leland is also burnt out and teetering on the verge of an addiction to pain pills.
Leland and Anna happen to be in the same hotel in Dallas and when Leland overhears someone break into Anna’s room and is threatening her life. He steps in not knowing that this is going to change the course of both their lives.
Leland doesn’t want to get involved in whatever is going on in Anna’s life but when her son is kidnapped he cannot just leave her. There are so many different Mexican cartels after them both that Leland doesn’t know if it has to do with his last mission or if it has to do with her husband who is also connected to the cartel. What ends up being the real reason is so shocking and unethical you won’t believe it.
This is the first in series and we do meet what I am sure are future characters. I’m hooked and look forward to the next book in the series.
The two main characters certainly have their fair share of problems. Anna Mercado is in Mexico to give her son who needs a heart transplant one last vacation with his father before he is admitted into the hospital. Anna had left Max over his infidelities but was willing to reconcile for a short while to make her son happy. When she accidentally over hears Max plotting her death and the kidnapping of her son she takes him and goes to Dallas where he is to soon receive a LVAD to help until a donor can be found.
Leland Hollis was a DEA Agent that was part of a mission that went horribly wrong. He just turned in his resignation and is recovering from a wound sustained on that ill fated mission. Leland is also burnt out and teetering on the verge of an addiction to pain pills.
Leland and Anna happen to be in the same hotel in Dallas and when Leland overhears someone break into Anna’s room and is threatening her life. He steps in not knowing that this is going to change the course of both their lives.
Leland doesn’t want to get involved in whatever is going on in Anna’s life but when her son is kidnapped he cannot just leave her. There are so many different Mexican cartels after them both that Leland doesn’t know if it has to do with his last mission or if it has to do with her husband who is also connected to the cartel. What ends up being the real reason is so shocking and unethical you won’t believe it.
This is the first in series and we do meet what I am sure are future characters. I’m hooked and look forward to the next book in the series.
November 20, 2013
4.5 stars
Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres, and Kay Thomas’ Hard Target has all of the elements of this genre that appeal to me and make the Elite Ops series one I plan to follow.
Thomas has created a compelling plot with mystery, suspense, and romance that increasingly builds in complexity and tension and is chockfull of action, which made this a fast and engaging reading experience. I had a difficult time finding a stopping place because I was so eager to see what twists and turns were waiting for Leland and Anna in their endeavors to rescue Anna’s son, Zach.
DEA agent LeLand Hollis is a swoon-worthy hero, a born protector who is unable to walk away from a “damsel in distress” when he inadvertently gets in the middle of Anna’s crisis with her soon-to-be ex-husband, Max Mercado. Leland has just resigned from the DEA and is still reeling from a disastrous failed bust that has left him physically injured, emotionally scarred, and uncertain about his future. He now questions his ability to intervene and keep others safe when necessary. Although Leland struggles with how involved he should become in Anna’s predicament, his honor and sense of responsibility won’t allow him to just walk away from Anna until her son is found. Furthermore, Leland has suspicions that some of his personal enemies may somehow be involved in the kidnapping of Anna’s son.
Anna Mercado is a wonderful, devoted mother to her gravely ill son, Zach and is willing to do whatever is necessary to find him and get him the medical attention he needs. I was even surprised by the lengths she’s willing to go to so her son can live longer. Her unconditional love is just one reason Leland becomes attracted to her since he didn’t have that same kind of love growing up.
Although Anna is aware that her husband wants her dead, both she and Leland aren’t certain that Max is behind Zach’s kidnapping after Anna gets a ransom note. Leland turns to Gavin, his former DEA partner who has just started his own personal security business for help. One of the best aspects of the book is following Leland and Anna as they journey deep into Mexican cartel country to find Zach and discover who is behind his abduction. Although Thomas subtly foreshadows the abductor’s motivations, the truth is still almost too shocking to fathom.
In the midst of all this danger, Leland and Anna turn to each other for physical and emotional comfort. Although neither one plans for any serious attachments, their attraction and need for each other continue to grow as the story progresses. There are a few steamy love scenes that show two desperate people clinging to each other for hope when they feel their world is crumbling all around them.
Thomas introduces readers to other characters who are part of Gavin’s security company and who will play key roles as the series develops. In addition, she sets up the next storyline before the resolution of Hard Target that has piqued my curiosity, and I’m anxiously waiting for Nick’s story, which is next – and based on the excerpt I read, it looks good!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres, and Kay Thomas’ Hard Target has all of the elements of this genre that appeal to me and make the Elite Ops series one I plan to follow.
Thomas has created a compelling plot with mystery, suspense, and romance that increasingly builds in complexity and tension and is chockfull of action, which made this a fast and engaging reading experience. I had a difficult time finding a stopping place because I was so eager to see what twists and turns were waiting for Leland and Anna in their endeavors to rescue Anna’s son, Zach.
DEA agent LeLand Hollis is a swoon-worthy hero, a born protector who is unable to walk away from a “damsel in distress” when he inadvertently gets in the middle of Anna’s crisis with her soon-to-be ex-husband, Max Mercado. Leland has just resigned from the DEA and is still reeling from a disastrous failed bust that has left him physically injured, emotionally scarred, and uncertain about his future. He now questions his ability to intervene and keep others safe when necessary. Although Leland struggles with how involved he should become in Anna’s predicament, his honor and sense of responsibility won’t allow him to just walk away from Anna until her son is found. Furthermore, Leland has suspicions that some of his personal enemies may somehow be involved in the kidnapping of Anna’s son.
Anna Mercado is a wonderful, devoted mother to her gravely ill son, Zach and is willing to do whatever is necessary to find him and get him the medical attention he needs. I was even surprised by the lengths she’s willing to go to so her son can live longer. Her unconditional love is just one reason Leland becomes attracted to her since he didn’t have that same kind of love growing up.
Although Anna is aware that her husband wants her dead, both she and Leland aren’t certain that Max is behind Zach’s kidnapping after Anna gets a ransom note. Leland turns to Gavin, his former DEA partner who has just started his own personal security business for help. One of the best aspects of the book is following Leland and Anna as they journey deep into Mexican cartel country to find Zach and discover who is behind his abduction. Although Thomas subtly foreshadows the abductor’s motivations, the truth is still almost too shocking to fathom.
In the midst of all this danger, Leland and Anna turn to each other for physical and emotional comfort. Although neither one plans for any serious attachments, their attraction and need for each other continue to grow as the story progresses. There are a few steamy love scenes that show two desperate people clinging to each other for hope when they feel their world is crumbling all around them.
Thomas introduces readers to other characters who are part of Gavin’s security company and who will play key roles as the series develops. In addition, she sets up the next storyline before the resolution of Hard Target that has piqued my curiosity, and I’m anxiously waiting for Nick’s story, which is next – and based on the excerpt I read, it looks good!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2013
Wow this book had suspense from beginning to end. There is some romance in between but this is not your typical suspense/romance book where there is suspense then romance and then back and forth. No this is suspense….suspense…mystery…..romance….action then more suspense… I actually thought it was addicting and couldn’t put it down because I didn’t want to miss what was going to happen next. It starts off with Anna the main character at Cancun taking a small vacation with her son Zach and estranged husband Max. They have been going through a lot because Zach has a heart condition and is waiting for a heart transplant. Anna is there with her soon to be ex-husband for her son Zach. Max and Anna are currently separated so otherwise she wouldn’t be with Max at all. At first you think Max is just a player and just very arrogant until something happens that changes everything Anna has ever known about Max. After this revelation Anna takes off with her son Zach to hide from her husband Max.
Anna and Zach are staying at a hotel where DEA Agent Leland Hollis is hiding from the media and from the public. He is testifying in a very well -known drug related case that involves some major drug dealers. Leland is trying to get a little getaway from all of the chaos in life and recovering from a broken ankle. While he is relaxing a commotion happens in the room right under him. He ends up on high alert and comes in with guns blazing to protect Anna and Zach from an attack. He has never met them but he couldn’t ignore the attack and not do anything. From this point on in the book it is completely action filled and non-stop. For some unknown reason Anna has experienced some traumatic experiences so it is very difficult to know who to trust. Once she meets Leland it changes for her and she decides to trust a stranger which she feels in her heart she can trust. He has risked a lot for her and her son so trusting him wasn’t as difficult as it should thought it should be.
I really like the chemistry between Anna and Leland in addition to his bond with Zach. Leland has always been a loner but for some reason he couldn’t seem to stop wanting to protect Anna and her son. The need to protect them was very strong which confused him because he never had these type of feelings for anybody. I can’t say it enough…the action was amazing!! My only wish is that there was more of an epilogue to the book that lets us know what happens with Leland, Anna, and Zach. I guess a deeper insight on what happens to them. There are other books after this one since it will be a series and hopefully we will get to keep in touch with our favorite characters and get updates about their relationships.
Warning….This is not a book to read to help you relax before going to bed. LOL You wouldn’t be able to sleep because there is so much suspense and action that happens. If you like action filled books with some romance then this is definitely your book to read. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
Anna and Zach are staying at a hotel where DEA Agent Leland Hollis is hiding from the media and from the public. He is testifying in a very well -known drug related case that involves some major drug dealers. Leland is trying to get a little getaway from all of the chaos in life and recovering from a broken ankle. While he is relaxing a commotion happens in the room right under him. He ends up on high alert and comes in with guns blazing to protect Anna and Zach from an attack. He has never met them but he couldn’t ignore the attack and not do anything. From this point on in the book it is completely action filled and non-stop. For some unknown reason Anna has experienced some traumatic experiences so it is very difficult to know who to trust. Once she meets Leland it changes for her and she decides to trust a stranger which she feels in her heart she can trust. He has risked a lot for her and her son so trusting him wasn’t as difficult as it should thought it should be.
I really like the chemistry between Anna and Leland in addition to his bond with Zach. Leland has always been a loner but for some reason he couldn’t seem to stop wanting to protect Anna and her son. The need to protect them was very strong which confused him because he never had these type of feelings for anybody. I can’t say it enough…the action was amazing!! My only wish is that there was more of an epilogue to the book that lets us know what happens with Leland, Anna, and Zach. I guess a deeper insight on what happens to them. There are other books after this one since it will be a series and hopefully we will get to keep in touch with our favorite characters and get updates about their relationships.
Warning….This is not a book to read to help you relax before going to bed. LOL You wouldn’t be able to sleep because there is so much suspense and action that happens. If you like action filled books with some romance then this is definitely your book to read. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
September 10, 2014
Review originally published at http://booksandspoons.weebly.com/book...
This plot has some original ideas that sets it apart from the regular romantic suspense, but the storyline gets messy. It is a bit too far fetched, and has so many scenarios for the possible reasons why things are turning out as they are,
and with so many secondary characters, it is so easy to lose focus and interest.
Leland is a broken man and tattered agent, being wanted, possibly, by the Mexican drug cartel. He has shut down his feelings, because caring for someone equals getting hurt for him. But I liked him, he was humble, honorable, and honest with himself in every aspect, even with his attraction to Anna.
I had hard time connecting with Anna. She is a married to the Tequila King, separated, and seems a bit lost, and very stressed because of the challenges of the past year, not to mention the 48 hours of drama and disaster they are going through in the story. Three times in the story she does, or tries to, use sex as a bargaining tool. Her connection to Leland seemed more like codependent hero worship, than love. And while being portrayed as the all sacrificing mother, she also has sex in the bathroom, with a man she met day before, under possible surveillance cameras, while being held as a prisoner by drug cartel leader, while her son is kidnapped, and her husband is held in prison for attempted murder, of her -- really?!
There are many secondary characters in the story, and I had hard time keeping them all lined up. Which agent was he again? Now what drug cartel did he work again, and he was in war with whom? And this informant came from where, why, how... You get the picture, just too much confusion.
There is a lot happening in this story, like said. The action is fast, constant, and furious, with surprises behind every corner. The drug cartels are after them, the thread from Anna's husband, and the reasons behind every attack change constantly. And when some of the questions are finally being answered, the 'reality' in the tale is unimaginable, and the last chapter's events were just -- unreal.
So the story has a wounded, interesting hero. An army of secondary characters I would like to know more about. A heroine with little appeal but an awesome son. A lot of action, but confusing and unrealistic events in the plot. Yes, it is fiction, but here there is a stretch to the storyline. How do I rate this book, and will I follow the series? I believe in all fairness, it deserves three spoons. There were enough intersting parts in the story to say I liked it.
And as to will I continue reading the series -- time will tell...
This plot has some original ideas that sets it apart from the regular romantic suspense, but the storyline gets messy. It is a bit too far fetched, and has so many scenarios for the possible reasons why things are turning out as they are,
and with so many secondary characters, it is so easy to lose focus and interest.
Leland is a broken man and tattered agent, being wanted, possibly, by the Mexican drug cartel. He has shut down his feelings, because caring for someone equals getting hurt for him. But I liked him, he was humble, honorable, and honest with himself in every aspect, even with his attraction to Anna.
I had hard time connecting with Anna. She is a married to the Tequila King, separated, and seems a bit lost, and very stressed because of the challenges of the past year, not to mention the 48 hours of drama and disaster they are going through in the story. Three times in the story she does, or tries to, use sex as a bargaining tool. Her connection to Leland seemed more like codependent hero worship, than love. And while being portrayed as the all sacrificing mother, she also has sex in the bathroom, with a man she met day before, under possible surveillance cameras, while being held as a prisoner by drug cartel leader, while her son is kidnapped, and her husband is held in prison for attempted murder, of her -- really?!
There are many secondary characters in the story, and I had hard time keeping them all lined up. Which agent was he again? Now what drug cartel did he work again, and he was in war with whom? And this informant came from where, why, how... You get the picture, just too much confusion.
There is a lot happening in this story, like said. The action is fast, constant, and furious, with surprises behind every corner. The drug cartels are after them, the thread from Anna's husband, and the reasons behind every attack change constantly. And when some of the questions are finally being answered, the 'reality' in the tale is unimaginable, and the last chapter's events were just -- unreal.
So the story has a wounded, interesting hero. An army of secondary characters I would like to know more about. A heroine with little appeal but an awesome son. A lot of action, but confusing and unrealistic events in the plot. Yes, it is fiction, but here there is a stretch to the storyline. How do I rate this book, and will I follow the series? I believe in all fairness, it deserves three spoons. There were enough intersting parts in the story to say I liked it.
And as to will I continue reading the series -- time will tell...
November 6, 2013
Anna has been taking care of her ailing son since they found out he had a heart condition. Her marriage has crumbled, but she intends for her son to lead a normal life and get to know his father. That's how she finds herself vacationing in Mexico with her soon-to-be ex-husband. She's had a few too many margaritas and is thinking of having one last "hurrah" with her husband. It is when she goes up to the suite that her world comes crashing down.
Leland is relaxing on a motel room after a brutal case that left him with a injured ankle. Feeling down on himself because of a loss that could have been prevented, she is considering quitting the DEA. He doesn't consider himself a hero, but neither can he stay away when he hears what is happening in the room below his. Unfazed by his leg injury, he intervenes and finds himself in the middle of a family conflict involving Anna and her husband.
Anna's disappearance from Mexico with her son and her altercation with her ex-husband coupled with Leland's involvement in the situation set forth an array of events that will affect everyone involved one way or the other.
This was such a page turner for me. Kay Thomas did an amazing job of drawing me into the story from the start. I enjoyed all the twists and turns that the story took. Add to that the sexual tension and the constant denial of a mutual connection from Leland and Anna and you got yourself a doozy.
I could easily relate to Anna and what she struggled with since the her feelings were well portrayed by the author. Her every insecurity, worry and feeling was put in place making it easier for me to connect with her and understand where she was coming from.
Although quiet and brooding, Leland's emotions jumped off the page too. He struggled not only with his attraction to Anna, but with his recent past. He questioned himself constantly, but never wavered in his protection of Anna. He was considerate, strong and a rock for Anna when she needed it most. I loved him!
I liked that both characters struggled and hesitated before finally admitting their attraction to each other. Man, when those two came together at last, it was HOT! And when they added their emotions to the mix it made for an even more enjoyable read.
Hard Target is the first book in the series and a great one at that. The characters that were introduced were intriguing and their stories would surely make for a great read. I can't wait to know more about these sexy, alpha-male men.
I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Leland is relaxing on a motel room after a brutal case that left him with a injured ankle. Feeling down on himself because of a loss that could have been prevented, she is considering quitting the DEA. He doesn't consider himself a hero, but neither can he stay away when he hears what is happening in the room below his. Unfazed by his leg injury, he intervenes and finds himself in the middle of a family conflict involving Anna and her husband.
Anna's disappearance from Mexico with her son and her altercation with her ex-husband coupled with Leland's involvement in the situation set forth an array of events that will affect everyone involved one way or the other.
This was such a page turner for me. Kay Thomas did an amazing job of drawing me into the story from the start. I enjoyed all the twists and turns that the story took. Add to that the sexual tension and the constant denial of a mutual connection from Leland and Anna and you got yourself a doozy.
I could easily relate to Anna and what she struggled with since the her feelings were well portrayed by the author. Her every insecurity, worry and feeling was put in place making it easier for me to connect with her and understand where she was coming from.
Although quiet and brooding, Leland's emotions jumped off the page too. He struggled not only with his attraction to Anna, but with his recent past. He questioned himself constantly, but never wavered in his protection of Anna. He was considerate, strong and a rock for Anna when she needed it most. I loved him!
I liked that both characters struggled and hesitated before finally admitting their attraction to each other. Man, when those two came together at last, it was HOT! And when they added their emotions to the mix it made for an even more enjoyable read.
Hard Target is the first book in the series and a great one at that. The characters that were introduced were intriguing and their stories would surely make for a great read. I can't wait to know more about these sexy, alpha-male men.
I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
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August 17, 2025Really tried to get into this one. Started out ok with everyone in Mexico when the wife overhears her husband talking on the phone about dumping her body somewhere. That definitely caught my attention and I wanted to see how she got out of the situation. We get the general idea of what she plans to do but all of a sudden the next chapter begins with her back in the US and we're told she got money sent to her and was able to buy tickets for her and her son to get back to the states. Easy peasy.
Back in the States we meet the hero of the book who happens to be staying in the hotel room above where the heroine and her son are hiding out. He also happens to be a federal agent. Go figure! Crazy husband (CH) from Mexico tracks down wife and son and hero comes to save the day when CH is beating on wife. There is a lot going on! The hero has his own issues after testifying in a high-profile drug cartel case. The CH is known as the Tequila King so he comes from money and who knows what kind of connections. The son has a heart condition and is on the transplant waiting list. He's been kidnapped so he may miss his chance if a heart becomes available; that is, if the trauma of seeing his dad beat his mom or his dad getting arrested or being kidnapped doesn't kill him first.
For some reason, I kept reading even when the h/h take the ransom into the middle of a foreign country without much of a plan or any backup for that matter. No, what really annoyed me throughout was that during all these traumatic events, the hero feels zings of arousal. Or the heroine feels zings of attraction. I had to stop when they're in a random hotel that the KIDNAPPERS set up for them and they start going at it. WTF? First of all, your sick son has been kidnapped. Second, you're in a random hotel room without any real security. Anybody can come in and shoot your ass and there goes your chance of saving your son. Sexytimes when so much is on the line? I just couldn't continue reading.
Back in the States we meet the hero of the book who happens to be staying in the hotel room above where the heroine and her son are hiding out. He also happens to be a federal agent. Go figure! Crazy husband (CH) from Mexico tracks down wife and son and hero comes to save the day when CH is beating on wife. There is a lot going on! The hero has his own issues after testifying in a high-profile drug cartel case. The CH is known as the Tequila King so he comes from money and who knows what kind of connections. The son has a heart condition and is on the transplant waiting list. He's been kidnapped so he may miss his chance if a heart becomes available; that is, if the trauma of seeing his dad beat his mom or his dad getting arrested or being kidnapped doesn't kill him first.
For some reason, I kept reading even when the h/h take the ransom into the middle of a foreign country without much of a plan or any backup for that matter. No, what really annoyed me throughout was that during all these traumatic events, the hero feels zings of arousal. Or the heroine feels zings of attraction. I had to stop when they're in a random hotel that the KIDNAPPERS set up for them and they start going at it. WTF? First of all, your sick son has been kidnapped. Second, you're in a random hotel room without any real security. Anybody can come in and shoot your ass and there goes your chance of saving your son. Sexytimes when so much is on the line? I just couldn't continue reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2017
*** 3.75 ***
For me, this is the first book by this author, as such I was a bit skeptical about what am I going to find.
I was however pleasantly impressed and I can definitely say I like his writing style. What particularly got my attention is how the author is describing not only what the characters do, but what they think or how they think in reacting to some events that they are involved with. This is somewhat fascinating to me, as we are not just told a story of what happens, but we also dive into the human mind exploring why people do the things they do, which is always an enigma hard to decipher...
The plot it great, characters are well constructed, the dialog is well placed and not least, the story as it is, has a catch that will keep you on the edge until the end...
Maybe the only thing I didn't quite like, or enjoy much, is a tendency to insert characters with dramatic and terminal diseases within the range of our characters or direct impacting our characters.
Yes, I know this may be a writing technique used by the author to force the conflict into an escalation point, or to dramatize more the story but still it's a bit overdone in this particular case.
Its a good book nonetheless and I will definitely follow this author work from now on.
For me, this is the first book by this author, as such I was a bit skeptical about what am I going to find.
I was however pleasantly impressed and I can definitely say I like his writing style. What particularly got my attention is how the author is describing not only what the characters do, but what they think or how they think in reacting to some events that they are involved with. This is somewhat fascinating to me, as we are not just told a story of what happens, but we also dive into the human mind exploring why people do the things they do, which is always an enigma hard to decipher...
The plot it great, characters are well constructed, the dialog is well placed and not least, the story as it is, has a catch that will keep you on the edge until the end...
Maybe the only thing I didn't quite like, or enjoy much, is a tendency to insert characters with dramatic and terminal diseases within the range of our characters or direct impacting our characters.
Yes, I know this may be a writing technique used by the author to force the conflict into an escalation point, or to dramatize more the story but still it's a bit overdone in this particular case.
Its a good book nonetheless and I will definitely follow this author work from now on.
May 30, 2021
This was an OK romantic suspense I didn't love it and I didn't hate it. I thought there were some places where I had a hard time suspending disbelief. I couldn't understand the heroine's decision toward the end. Especially given that she had zero reasons to trust the bad guy. I would have liked more of an epilogue to see what happened next. I didn't hate my time with it and I can see it being a hit with fans of this author.
August 9, 2017
Cartel what?
This was a solid read. The flow of the storyline was good and the characters were well developed. I highly recommend this book. Starting book two now!
This was a solid read. The flow of the storyline was good and the characters were well developed. I highly recommend this book. Starting book two now!
April 18, 2020
That was hard to read .... poor Anna
January 6, 2014
Hard Target is the first book in a series revolving around yet another agency composed of former SEAL people and what not, because there are never enough of these people who can somehow make billions of dollars to buy the software and hardware needed to start such operations while busy saving the world from evil Middle-Eastern and the occasional, now lamentably out of fashion, Russian and Eastern Europe terrorists. Indeed, there isn't anything in Hard Target that hasn't been seen before.
Anna Mercado's marriage to her husband Tomas has fallen apart for a while now, but their son Zach is in dire need of a heart transplant. When the story opens, it is finally Zach's turn to receive a heart transplant, and Anna doesn't think much when Tomas invites her and Zach to a Mexican getaway to give Zach a good time before he goes for his surgery. Alas, she overhears Tomas plotting to do away with her and kidnap Zach, so, clearly, the family reunion isn't happening any time soon. She eventually flees with Zach, but when they stop at a motel, her husband shows up to show her who the boss is.
Fortunately for her, Leland Hollis is in the room next door. Our former DEA hero resigned after his superior sent him and his team to assault what seems to be a criminal's abode, only to discover too late that the informant lied and Leland should have trusted his instincts that something wasn't right. By that time, one dead baby, another critically dead baby, a crippled woman, and a huge lawsuit all ensured that Leland's reputation is completely destroyed. Still, Leland is still a good guy despite being more surly than anything else at the moment, and he rushes to Anna's rescue.
When Zach is kidnapped shortly after, he can't help but to continue to lend Anna a hand. It's a good thing, as Anna is understandably out of her depths and Leland's connection with his fellow future stars of sequels and his action man expertise would all come in very useful. Time is running out for Zach, however, so they have better get moving ASAP!
Hard Target is not the most logical story around. The plot is quite convoluted, and when the villain's plot is finally revealed, I can only wonder whether there is a less complicated scheme that could be carried out. The whole thing is so convoluted, with so many rooms for failure, it's actually a wonder the whole thing even got off the ground.
Still, the story is so much fun - I'm having so much fun, it's so easy to just go, "Oh, what the hell!" and jump screaming in exhilaration down the cliff with these people. We have drug cartels, bullets, assassins, and everything normally associated with crime parties in Latin America, and all that is missing from the celebration of stereotypes is Salma Hayek. Anna isn't going to be a gun-totting avenger babe anytime soon, and that's fine, as doing so would be out of character for her. But she's a smart heroine and she behaves realistically in most situations without coming off as a liability. Leland is a standard part emo, all action hero guy, but he's an appealing one, as he's a sweet knight in tarnished armor guy and he is not too much of a super hero here. Maybe it's just me, but I also find the main villain quite sympathetic as he's doing what he does out of love. I'd like to say that I don't approve of his methods, but actually, I think I do. A guy that would happily kill in the name of love is so hot.
The romance is quite thin and it takes place at an accelerated pace, but all things considered, it's a nice complement to the crazy party that is the rest of the story. The characters are likable, and they do have some good chemistry, so in a way, I can believe that these two would be all right in the long run. Hard Target is more like an action story with romance instead of a romantic story with some suspense, so people looking for something that focuses more on the romance may be disappointed with this one. You may want to adjust your expectations a bit before reading this one.
Hard Target isn't going to win any award for sophisticated plotting, but it is such a crazy party that I can't help but to have fun. And that's not a bad thing at all.
Anna Mercado's marriage to her husband Tomas has fallen apart for a while now, but their son Zach is in dire need of a heart transplant. When the story opens, it is finally Zach's turn to receive a heart transplant, and Anna doesn't think much when Tomas invites her and Zach to a Mexican getaway to give Zach a good time before he goes for his surgery. Alas, she overhears Tomas plotting to do away with her and kidnap Zach, so, clearly, the family reunion isn't happening any time soon. She eventually flees with Zach, but when they stop at a motel, her husband shows up to show her who the boss is.
Fortunately for her, Leland Hollis is in the room next door. Our former DEA hero resigned after his superior sent him and his team to assault what seems to be a criminal's abode, only to discover too late that the informant lied and Leland should have trusted his instincts that something wasn't right. By that time, one dead baby, another critically dead baby, a crippled woman, and a huge lawsuit all ensured that Leland's reputation is completely destroyed. Still, Leland is still a good guy despite being more surly than anything else at the moment, and he rushes to Anna's rescue.
When Zach is kidnapped shortly after, he can't help but to continue to lend Anna a hand. It's a good thing, as Anna is understandably out of her depths and Leland's connection with his fellow future stars of sequels and his action man expertise would all come in very useful. Time is running out for Zach, however, so they have better get moving ASAP!
Hard Target is not the most logical story around. The plot is quite convoluted, and when the villain's plot is finally revealed, I can only wonder whether there is a less complicated scheme that could be carried out. The whole thing is so convoluted, with so many rooms for failure, it's actually a wonder the whole thing even got off the ground.
Still, the story is so much fun - I'm having so much fun, it's so easy to just go, "Oh, what the hell!" and jump screaming in exhilaration down the cliff with these people. We have drug cartels, bullets, assassins, and everything normally associated with crime parties in Latin America, and all that is missing from the celebration of stereotypes is Salma Hayek. Anna isn't going to be a gun-totting avenger babe anytime soon, and that's fine, as doing so would be out of character for her. But she's a smart heroine and she behaves realistically in most situations without coming off as a liability. Leland is a standard part emo, all action hero guy, but he's an appealing one, as he's a sweet knight in tarnished armor guy and he is not too much of a super hero here. Maybe it's just me, but I also find the main villain quite sympathetic as he's doing what he does out of love. I'd like to say that I don't approve of his methods, but actually, I think I do. A guy that would happily kill in the name of love is so hot.
The romance is quite thin and it takes place at an accelerated pace, but all things considered, it's a nice complement to the crazy party that is the rest of the story. The characters are likable, and they do have some good chemistry, so in a way, I can believe that these two would be all right in the long run. Hard Target is more like an action story with romance instead of a romantic story with some suspense, so people looking for something that focuses more on the romance may be disappointed with this one. You may want to adjust your expectations a bit before reading this one.
Hard Target isn't going to win any award for sophisticated plotting, but it is such a crazy party that I can't help but to have fun. And that's not a bad thing at all.
November 7, 2013
I love a great romantic suspense. So when I got the opportunity to read Hard Target by Kay Thomas, I jumped on it. Hard Target keeps you on the edge of your seat as you chew through your $30 manicure! There’s action, suspense, heartbreak, and sexual tension that will have you devouring this book in one sitting.
Leland Hollis character is not your typical sexy alpha ex-military guy. He’s fighting some heavy guilt over things in his past and struggling with a physical injuries that have him dependent on medication. Leland is ill-prepared to rescue a woman and her child fighting for their life. But that is exactly what he does. I love that he doesn’t hesitate to help, even though he’s injured and definitely not on the job. His sense of honor and integrity propel him to step up. And he doesn’t stop there. He proves himself a worthy hero over and over again to you, putting himself in situations most people would balk at. Even as he’s doing all this, he’s not a perfect guy. You see him struggle with a possible addiction and waffle with his decision to continue on this dangerous situation to help people he doesn’t even know.
Anna Mercado is nearing the end of her marriage. She’s ready to move and and deal with the realities of a sick child. But things about about to get much worse for her when her ex-husband attacks her. At first I was annoyed with Anna’s character. The fact she was letting her jerk of a husband into her life again after knowing what a sleaze he is bothered me. But that opinion changes pretty quick once she has to protect her only child from the one person who is suppose to love him the most. Anna comes off as a quiet and meek person, but complete shatters that stereotype, coming out of these crazy situations as a stronger person. There is a certain point in the book that has tears rolling down my face. The sacrifice Anna is willing to make for her son really touched me. Being a parent myself, I felt all the emotions she felt having to make a decision like this.
Hard Target keeps you edging toward the end of your chair as you read. Just when you think they’re out of the woods, Leland and Anna are propelled into another gut wrenching scene. I liked that Kay used the Mexican cartels as a plot point. Since these cartels are in the news, you feel the deep sense of danger and foreboding with these scary characters.
The romance between Anna and Leland slowly builds as these two going through this crisis together. Their attraction to each other is immediate, but they don’t act on it until they cannot resist each other any longer, even as lives are being threatened. I love that Leland doesn’t take advantage of Anna when she clearly wants him but it’s not right to act on his libido. It made me love him even more.
I enjoyed Hard Target. The actions scenes are well-written and detailed making you feel like you’re right in the action. I also like that it’s written in third person. It helps me get into the character’s heads and understand their thoughts and actions. I’ll definitely read the future books in this series based on this book. I give Hard Target 4 out of 5 stars.
Written by Dee McGee - Booze, Bookz, and Bad Boyz
Leland Hollis character is not your typical sexy alpha ex-military guy. He’s fighting some heavy guilt over things in his past and struggling with a physical injuries that have him dependent on medication. Leland is ill-prepared to rescue a woman and her child fighting for their life. But that is exactly what he does. I love that he doesn’t hesitate to help, even though he’s injured and definitely not on the job. His sense of honor and integrity propel him to step up. And he doesn’t stop there. He proves himself a worthy hero over and over again to you, putting himself in situations most people would balk at. Even as he’s doing all this, he’s not a perfect guy. You see him struggle with a possible addiction and waffle with his decision to continue on this dangerous situation to help people he doesn’t even know.
Anna Mercado is nearing the end of her marriage. She’s ready to move and and deal with the realities of a sick child. But things about about to get much worse for her when her ex-husband attacks her. At first I was annoyed with Anna’s character. The fact she was letting her jerk of a husband into her life again after knowing what a sleaze he is bothered me. But that opinion changes pretty quick once she has to protect her only child from the one person who is suppose to love him the most. Anna comes off as a quiet and meek person, but complete shatters that stereotype, coming out of these crazy situations as a stronger person. There is a certain point in the book that has tears rolling down my face. The sacrifice Anna is willing to make for her son really touched me. Being a parent myself, I felt all the emotions she felt having to make a decision like this.
Hard Target keeps you edging toward the end of your chair as you read. Just when you think they’re out of the woods, Leland and Anna are propelled into another gut wrenching scene. I liked that Kay used the Mexican cartels as a plot point. Since these cartels are in the news, you feel the deep sense of danger and foreboding with these scary characters.
The romance between Anna and Leland slowly builds as these two going through this crisis together. Their attraction to each other is immediate, but they don’t act on it until they cannot resist each other any longer, even as lives are being threatened. I love that Leland doesn’t take advantage of Anna when she clearly wants him but it’s not right to act on his libido. It made me love him even more.
I enjoyed Hard Target. The actions scenes are well-written and detailed making you feel like you’re right in the action. I also like that it’s written in third person. It helps me get into the character’s heads and understand their thoughts and actions. I’ll definitely read the future books in this series based on this book. I give Hard Target 4 out of 5 stars.
Written by Dee McGee - Booze, Bookz, and Bad Boyz
October 8, 2014
They met under extraordinary circumstances...
Anna Mercado is the estranged wife of Maximilian Mercado "The Tequila King". She agrees to go to Cancun with their ill son, Zach, to visit Max and allow Zach a mini-vacation before he's due for a procedure that upcoming Monday back in Dallas. When Anna overhears a disturbing phone conversation in which her husband orders that the boy be taken and to kill her and dump her body, Anna grabs Zach and flees back to the States.
Leland Hollis spent a few tours in the Middle East sandbox before turning DEA. Now, after a case had gone especially bad and left him injured, he's given his resignation. While holed up in his motel room, he can't help but overhear the mother & son occupants in the room below him. When the sounds of commotion rise up, Leland jumps to rescue the duo from the sounds of escalating violence.
When the fog clears from the initial situation, Anna and Leland suddenly discover that Zach's gone missing, the motel room is trashed, a very bold ransom note has been left & they've only been given 18 hours to meet the difficult demands.
----------------------------------------
My first impression of this book was "Did I miss something?". The way it started out, it felt as though I were meant to already know who these characters are already. But the intro seems to set the scene for the rest of the book.
Hard Target is a very well-written series pilot. The plot is filled with action, suspense and romantic tension. After Leland gives his resignation to the DEA, he's already offered a job from his pal, Garrett. Garrett wants Leland to work for him, joining AEGIS once he's healed from his current injuries. Sooner than Leland anticipates though, he's in need of Garrett's team to help Anna rescue Zach, who's been taken back into Mexico & into the heart of some very dangerous cartel territory. Enemies are bountiful in their journey and the obstacles seem insurmountable. Their journey is exciting & guaranteed to keep you turning those pages.
Leland and Anna are described and portrayed strongly. I adored Zach. The secondary characters were assets in the story, whether good or bad. The chemistry between the main characters was great, it built up from heated glances to a light reassuring touch. It built the suspense wonderfully. Dialogue and interaction was mostly believable.
There are plenty of small conflicts along the way that are resolved with a calm, clear head by Leland and a slightly shell-shocked Anna, but they are resolved in a satisfactory, efficient manner. The climax conflict is terrific! It's not often you get pages of adrenaline-fueled excitement, but Kay Thomas pulled of an epic sequence of events!
Lead Male: 4.5
Lead Female: 4.5
Secondary Characters: 4
Chemistry: 4.5
Dialogue/Interaction: 4.5
Plot: 5
Conflict & Resolve: 5
Predictability: 5
HOT factor: 4
Flow/Ease: 5
------------------
Overall: 4.6 / 5.0
Looking forward to book 2, Personal Target!
June 5, 2014
Romantic suspense is my favorite genre and I put Hard Target on my Wish List for a future purchase. I ended up buying it at an author signing and was excited to start reading it. However, I found the first quarter of the book a little difficult to get into and struggled to keep on reading. Once I got past that, it picked up and the action moved right along. I liked Leland, a DEA agent on the verge of resigning after a botched assignment. As he recoups in a Dallas hotel, he considers a job offer by his friend, Gavin, to join his elite ops organization. When he hears an altercation in another room, he goes to investigate and finds a man swinging a golf club at a terrified woman. The man, Max Mercado, is the Tequila King of Mexico and the woman, Anna, is his estranged wife. Their fourteen-year-old son, Zach, is in need of a heart transplant and Anna wants it done in the US and Max wants it done in Mexico. Anna does what she has to do to get Zach out of Mexico and back in the US when Max finds her. This is the basis for a deeper, more complex plan by Max involving drug cartels, kidnapping, harvesting of human organs and high priced payoffs, taking Leland and Anna deep into the Mexican cartel world.
I couldn't connect with Anna, and although I didn't dislike her, I wanted to like her more than I did. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I thought her character could have been so much more. I felt Leland had more depth than Anna, but I found it hard to get a visual in my head for them, especially for Anna. I didn't feel the heat in their attraction to each other and when they acted on it, it was just okay. I liked Zach a lot. He was a real trooper and had a great outlook on life despite all he'd been through.
I would probably rate this closer to 3.5 than 3.0, but I had high hopes for more. It had plenty of action and the characters were okay, even though with the secondary characters, I had to stop occasionally to think about who was who.
The other thing that kept my rating under 4.0 was the use of one of my grammatical pet peeves: the use of "waiting on" something rather than "waiting for" something. I understand it is a common, acceptable term nowadays, however, acceptable does not mean it's correct. "Waiting on" was used three times and to me, it's like fingernails on a chalkboard.
I would recommend this book as it does have a little of everything and kept my interest after a somewhat slow start. I will most likely read the next book in this series as Nick has me intrigued.
I couldn't connect with Anna, and although I didn't dislike her, I wanted to like her more than I did. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I thought her character could have been so much more. I felt Leland had more depth than Anna, but I found it hard to get a visual in my head for them, especially for Anna. I didn't feel the heat in their attraction to each other and when they acted on it, it was just okay. I liked Zach a lot. He was a real trooper and had a great outlook on life despite all he'd been through.
I would probably rate this closer to 3.5 than 3.0, but I had high hopes for more. It had plenty of action and the characters were okay, even though with the secondary characters, I had to stop occasionally to think about who was who.
The other thing that kept my rating under 4.0 was the use of one of my grammatical pet peeves: the use of "waiting on" something rather than "waiting for" something. I understand it is a common, acceptable term nowadays, however, acceptable does not mean it's correct. "Waiting on" was used three times and to me, it's like fingernails on a chalkboard.
I would recommend this book as it does have a little of everything and kept my interest after a somewhat slow start. I will most likely read the next book in this series as Nick has me intrigued.
Read
November 4, 2016Really tried to get into this one. Started out ok with everyone in Mexico when the wife overhears her husband talking on the phone about dumping her body somewhere. That definitely caught my attention and I wanted to see how she got out of the situation. We get the general idea of what she plans to do but all of a sudden the next chapter begins with her back in the US and we're told she got money sent to her and was able to buy tickets for her and her son to get back to the states. Easy peasy.
Back in the States we meet the hero of the book who happens to be staying in the hotel room above where the heroine and her son are hiding out. He also happens to be a federal agent. Go figure! Crazy husband (CH) from Mexico tracks down wife and son and hero comes to save the day when CH is beating on wife. There is a lot going on! The hero has his own issues after testifying in a high-profile drug cartel case. The CH is known as the Tequila King so he comes from money and who knows what kind of connections. The son has a heart condition and is on the transplant waiting list. He's been kidnapped so he may miss his chance if a heart becomes available; that is, if the trauma of seeing his dad beat his mom or his dad getting arrested or being kidnapped doesn't kill him first.
For some reason, I kept reading even when the h/h take the ransom into the middle of a foreign country without much of a plan or any backup for that matter. No, what really annoyed me throughout was that during all these traumatic events, the hero feels zings of arousal. Or the heroine feels zings of attraction. I had to stop when they're in a random hotel that the KIDNAPPERS set up for them and they start going at it. WTF? First of all, your sick son has been kidnapped. Second, you're in a random hotel room without any real security. Anybody can come in and shoot your ass and there goes your chance of saving your son. Sexytimes when so much is on the line? I just couldn't continue reading.
Back in the States we meet the hero of the book who happens to be staying in the hotel room above where the heroine and her son are hiding out. He also happens to be a federal agent. Go figure! Crazy husband (CH) from Mexico tracks down wife and son and hero comes to save the day when CH is beating on wife. There is a lot going on! The hero has his own issues after testifying in a high-profile drug cartel case. The CH is known as the Tequila King so he comes from money and who knows what kind of connections. The son has a heart condition and is on the transplant waiting list. He's been kidnapped so he may miss his chance if a heart becomes available; that is, if the trauma of seeing his dad beat his mom or his dad getting arrested or being kidnapped doesn't kill him first.
For some reason, I kept reading even when the h/h take the ransom into the middle of a foreign country without much of a plan or any backup for that matter. No, what really annoyed me throughout was that during all these traumatic events, the hero feels zings of arousal. Or the heroine feels zings of attraction. I had to stop when they're in a random hotel that the KIDNAPPERS set up for them and they start going at it. WTF? First of all, your sick son has been kidnapped. Second, you're in a random hotel room without any real security. Anybody can come in and shoot your ass and there goes your chance of saving your son. Sexytimes when so much is on the line? I just couldn't continue reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2013
ARC provided for honest review.
This book earned 3.5 stars from me! This book was really enjoyable. It tells the story of Anna Mercado and her son Zach who is very ill and needs a heart transplant. Anna's husband Max is about as horrible as they come, and Anna finds out exactly how bad when she overhears him plotting to kill her and kidnap their son while on a family vacation. Now let me introduce you to the sexy as ever hero of this story, Leland. Leland is a DEA agent who has just testified against his dept and basically cost himself his job. As a DEA agent, he has gone against some of the worst drug smugglers in Mexico, which has earned him a lot of enemies. Anna and Leland meet under horrible circumstances and when Anna's son Zach is kidnapped, she knows she needs Leland's help to find her son. The story continues with a kidnapping, many near-death experiences and some seriously hot sexual tension between Anna and Leland. This story introduces us to members of AEGIS, who I can't wait to read about! This book isn't exactly a romance, it is more action-packed which was a nice change from what I have been reading as of late. Anna was so strong to do what she did - I cannot even imagine being put in that situation. Max is just a complete scumbag - he absolutely repulses me. Leland is pretty swoon-worthy. He puts his life on the line to save Anna and her son - who doesn't love a hero? This was a quick read that I finished in one evening. If you are looking for an action-packed read that doesn't have a lot of sex, but more so has an interesting storyline, then give this one a try. Then you can see if Leland and Anna can keep themselves alive long enough to rescue Zach who is being held in the middle of drug smuggling territory - and we all know how much they love DEA agents.
This book earned 3.5 stars from me! This book was really enjoyable. It tells the story of Anna Mercado and her son Zach who is very ill and needs a heart transplant. Anna's husband Max is about as horrible as they come, and Anna finds out exactly how bad when she overhears him plotting to kill her and kidnap their son while on a family vacation. Now let me introduce you to the sexy as ever hero of this story, Leland. Leland is a DEA agent who has just testified against his dept and basically cost himself his job. As a DEA agent, he has gone against some of the worst drug smugglers in Mexico, which has earned him a lot of enemies. Anna and Leland meet under horrible circumstances and when Anna's son Zach is kidnapped, she knows she needs Leland's help to find her son. The story continues with a kidnapping, many near-death experiences and some seriously hot sexual tension between Anna and Leland. This story introduces us to members of AEGIS, who I can't wait to read about! This book isn't exactly a romance, it is more action-packed which was a nice change from what I have been reading as of late. Anna was so strong to do what she did - I cannot even imagine being put in that situation. Max is just a complete scumbag - he absolutely repulses me. Leland is pretty swoon-worthy. He puts his life on the line to save Anna and her son - who doesn't love a hero? This was a quick read that I finished in one evening. If you are looking for an action-packed read that doesn't have a lot of sex, but more so has an interesting storyline, then give this one a try. Then you can see if Leland and Anna can keep themselves alive long enough to rescue Zach who is being held in the middle of drug smuggling territory - and we all know how much they love DEA agents.
September 21, 2014
***This book was provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.***
"Meet me upstairs. I want you and I’m taking you to bed."
And with that opening sentence, we’re off!
This is a story about a man looking for redemption and a woman who would do anything to get her son back, and how maybe they can give each other what they need.
Let’s start with Anna’s character. Anna was so likable. She had strength and determination and she was fighter throughout this entire book. I loved her tenacity. She made some desperate choices, but she was in a desperate situation, and I thought it reflected that perfectly. Her love for her son was so tangible throughout the entire book, and my heart ached for her.
Leland’s character had just been through a very traumatic experience himself, and I love that despite what was going on in his own life, he stepped up to help Anna. He was such a good man, and went to great lengths to ensure she came out on the other side.
The dire situation they were in was a catalyst for their attraction; they had no choice but to trust each other and it drew them so close emotionally I feel like their attraction was inevitable!
I love it when secondary characters in books add something to the main character and I felt like Leland’s buddy Gavin did that in this one. He was a good friend to Leland and a loyal husband to his wife, and I liked that that was the kind of person Leland wanted in his life.
This book was action packed from the beginning, and I thought it was well paced throughout. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for romance, action, and adventure!
"Meet me upstairs. I want you and I’m taking you to bed."
And with that opening sentence, we’re off!
This is a story about a man looking for redemption and a woman who would do anything to get her son back, and how maybe they can give each other what they need.
Let’s start with Anna’s character. Anna was so likable. She had strength and determination and she was fighter throughout this entire book. I loved her tenacity. She made some desperate choices, but she was in a desperate situation, and I thought it reflected that perfectly. Her love for her son was so tangible throughout the entire book, and my heart ached for her.
Leland’s character had just been through a very traumatic experience himself, and I love that despite what was going on in his own life, he stepped up to help Anna. He was such a good man, and went to great lengths to ensure she came out on the other side.
The dire situation they were in was a catalyst for their attraction; they had no choice but to trust each other and it drew them so close emotionally I feel like their attraction was inevitable!
I love it when secondary characters in books add something to the main character and I felt like Leland’s buddy Gavin did that in this one. He was a good friend to Leland and a loyal husband to his wife, and I liked that that was the kind of person Leland wanted in his life.
This book was action packed from the beginning, and I thought it was well paced throughout. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for romance, action, and adventure!
July 31, 2014
4.7 Star Review - Hard Target (Elite Ops # 1)
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book by Kay. This book includes passion, laughs, heartache, kidnappings, murder, betrayal and a few gun fights.
Anna Mercado is on vacation with her husband and son when she overhears her husband planning her murder and her son’s kidnapping. She goes on the run and is hiding in a hotel when he tracks her down. Leland is staying at the hotel and comes to her aid and saves her. When her son is kidnapped they team up. He is going to protect her no matter what as he thinks he might be the reason they took her son.
Anna is slowly falling apart and is trying her hardest to keep it together. When they find out exactly what the kidnapper wants Leland is furious. He gets even more furious when Anna agrees. No way is he letting her give the kidnapper what he wants. How is he going to save everyone and get them all out of this mess.
Grab the book to find out.
Leland is a strong willed man. He has issues of his own but is determined to save Anna and her son no matter what. Even if they both hate him after. Anna has had to be strong for a while but she is slowly unraveling. Can she really trust Leland to get her son back? Does she even have a choice.
A very good read. Kay delivers a suspense fueled love story like no other. You know at the end of the day people are going to be furious about the steps that were taken for the outcome to be good. They will just have to learn to deal with it.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book by Kay. This book includes passion, laughs, heartache, kidnappings, murder, betrayal and a few gun fights.
Anna Mercado is on vacation with her husband and son when she overhears her husband planning her murder and her son’s kidnapping. She goes on the run and is hiding in a hotel when he tracks her down. Leland is staying at the hotel and comes to her aid and saves her. When her son is kidnapped they team up. He is going to protect her no matter what as he thinks he might be the reason they took her son.
Anna is slowly falling apart and is trying her hardest to keep it together. When they find out exactly what the kidnapper wants Leland is furious. He gets even more furious when Anna agrees. No way is he letting her give the kidnapper what he wants. How is he going to save everyone and get them all out of this mess.
Grab the book to find out.
Leland is a strong willed man. He has issues of his own but is determined to save Anna and her son no matter what. Even if they both hate him after. Anna has had to be strong for a while but she is slowly unraveling. Can she really trust Leland to get her son back? Does she even have a choice.
A very good read. Kay delivers a suspense fueled love story like no other. You know at the end of the day people are going to be furious about the steps that were taken for the outcome to be good. They will just have to learn to deal with it.
November 12, 2013
The first book in the Elite Ops series is a fast action packed thriller that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Recovering from a drug bust gone wrong, Leeland wants nothing more than to rebuild his life. But when a woman and her son are threatened, he can’t ignore his instincts. When her son is kidnapped, Anna has no choice but to trust this stranger to protect her and her son deep in cartel territory.
The author does a great job of conveying all the emotional turmoil of the characters in this intriguing book with strong captivating characters that draw the reader deeper into the story and are easily related to. The action and drama is defined in vivid detail making seem like the reader is there right along with Leeland and Anna as they fight for their lives and the life of her son.
The romance between Leeland and Anna slowly build throughout the book and is appropriately paced with the events taking place. The suspense builds throughout the fast paced plot with lots of believable action and engaging characters. The book starts off with a glimpse of the major characters lives at the beginning before the major conflict of the story starts. This gives the reader a great feel for the characters personalities and motivations and adds depth to the book.
This book is well written with lots of suspense and drama that keeps the reader entertained from beginning to end. The author has created an agency full of compelling characters that leave the reader wanting to know more about them and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Recovering from a drug bust gone wrong, Leeland wants nothing more than to rebuild his life. But when a woman and her son are threatened, he can’t ignore his instincts. When her son is kidnapped, Anna has no choice but to trust this stranger to protect her and her son deep in cartel territory.
The author does a great job of conveying all the emotional turmoil of the characters in this intriguing book with strong captivating characters that draw the reader deeper into the story and are easily related to. The action and drama is defined in vivid detail making seem like the reader is there right along with Leeland and Anna as they fight for their lives and the life of her son.
The romance between Leeland and Anna slowly build throughout the book and is appropriately paced with the events taking place. The suspense builds throughout the fast paced plot with lots of believable action and engaging characters. The book starts off with a glimpse of the major characters lives at the beginning before the major conflict of the story starts. This gives the reader a great feel for the characters personalities and motivations and adds depth to the book.
This book is well written with lots of suspense and drama that keeps the reader entertained from beginning to end. The author has created an agency full of compelling characters that leave the reader wanting to know more about them and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 7, 2013
Right now, I don’t know if I want to scream or cry. I don’t get this emotional with books, but I also don’t give this high rating to just any book. I believe this book is worth the highest rating that I could give it.
The storyline was not too intense or too lacking. It was at the right amount to keep me, the reader, turning the pages to find out what would be next.
I was on the edge of my seat turning the pages and then there was small rest spots that still had me turning the page but not biting my nails.
The writing style was colorful and had some wit thrown in for good measure. The point-of-view was of Third Person Selective Multiple that makes, the reader, me feel like I know and understand the characters fully. The characters were fully developed that me, as a reader, felt what they felt and understood why that character did what they did.
The small love interest going through the storyline, kept the action moving and added more tension for the reader to want to turn the pages.
Leland can come rescue me anytime of the day. He is now my new book boyfriend. When a guy with a cast on his foot can outsmart a bad guy all while sitting down, gets a gold star in my book!
5 stars
I got this book as an ARC, but my review is real.
The storyline was not too intense or too lacking. It was at the right amount to keep me, the reader, turning the pages to find out what would be next.
I was on the edge of my seat turning the pages and then there was small rest spots that still had me turning the page but not biting my nails.
The writing style was colorful and had some wit thrown in for good measure. The point-of-view was of Third Person Selective Multiple that makes, the reader, me feel like I know and understand the characters fully. The characters were fully developed that me, as a reader, felt what they felt and understood why that character did what they did.
The small love interest going through the storyline, kept the action moving and added more tension for the reader to want to turn the pages.
Leland can come rescue me anytime of the day. He is now my new book boyfriend. When a guy with a cast on his foot can outsmart a bad guy all while sitting down, gets a gold star in my book!
5 stars
I got this book as an ARC, but my review is real.
November 30, 2013
I'm a sucker for romantic suspense novels, and I have to say that Kay Thomas's Hard Target novel didn't let me down. Considering this is going to be series, the start is promising.
The novel centers around Leland, a former DEA agent, recently retired from the force, and Anna, mother of a 14 year old boy, Zach, and his rescue mission.
They meet in Dallas, when Leland gets involved in the crisis between Anna and her husband, Max Mercado. Leland saves the day, but soon after,Zach, Anna's boy is kidnapped. In order to find him in the heart of the Mexican cartel, Leland asks help from one of his fiends, Gavin, co owner of Aegis (an elite mercenary force). Together they travel to Mexico and try to piece together the puzzle that is Zach's kidnapping ( It's an interesting one, but I thought it was quite predictable). Obviously the book is going to have a happy ending for all parties involved :)
This is an action packed book, and that was one of the things I liked about it ( huge action movie fan here). The plot was quite good, although at times pretty predictable. It had the right amount of mystery and suspense to keep you intrigued thought the 300 pages :).
I consider it a fast and engaging read, and I would recommend it to suspense readers.
The novel centers around Leland, a former DEA agent, recently retired from the force, and Anna, mother of a 14 year old boy, Zach, and his rescue mission.
They meet in Dallas, when Leland gets involved in the crisis between Anna and her husband, Max Mercado. Leland saves the day, but soon after,Zach, Anna's boy is kidnapped. In order to find him in the heart of the Mexican cartel, Leland asks help from one of his fiends, Gavin, co owner of Aegis (an elite mercenary force). Together they travel to Mexico and try to piece together the puzzle that is Zach's kidnapping ( It's an interesting one, but I thought it was quite predictable). Obviously the book is going to have a happy ending for all parties involved :)
This is an action packed book, and that was one of the things I liked about it ( huge action movie fan here). The plot was quite good, although at times pretty predictable. It had the right amount of mystery and suspense to keep you intrigued thought the 300 pages :).
I consider it a fast and engaging read, and I would recommend it to suspense readers.
December 14, 2015
This is the first of this kind of book I've read.
In many ways, it reminds me of "Romancing the Stone", but more fired up.
The action as its intensity at full-throttle all the way through. The chapters are short; usually end with a new conflict development, and always develop spending time resolving some of that conflict. -- As an action/adventure story, this is well formed indeed!
I certainly found it tough to put this book down.
The romance is somewhat secondary to the narrative. Well, the whole story takes place over the course of an action-packed two days; so, I think it's hard-pressed to have character development in that timeframe.
It might also be that the conflict/resolution of the plot revolves much more around action ("can Hero shoot the bad guys?") than personal demons ("Hero usually disappoints those he's cared for before; can he do better this time?").
The Heroine is more a Scarlett O'Hara than an Ellen Ripley. Rather a tough damsel-in-distress.
Which is fine, I guess, but certainly quite asymmetric.
The action sets itself amongst Mexican drug-cartels, and the issue of children being kidnapped. It doesn't beat the reader over the head with this, although it is quite dire.
In many ways, it reminds me of "Romancing the Stone", but more fired up.
The action as its intensity at full-throttle all the way through. The chapters are short; usually end with a new conflict development, and always develop spending time resolving some of that conflict. -- As an action/adventure story, this is well formed indeed!
I certainly found it tough to put this book down.
The romance is somewhat secondary to the narrative. Well, the whole story takes place over the course of an action-packed two days; so, I think it's hard-pressed to have character development in that timeframe.
It might also be that the conflict/resolution of the plot revolves much more around action ("can Hero shoot the bad guys?") than personal demons ("Hero usually disappoints those he's cared for before; can he do better this time?").
The Heroine is more a Scarlett O'Hara than an Ellen Ripley. Rather a tough damsel-in-distress.
Which is fine, I guess, but certainly quite asymmetric.
The action sets itself amongst Mexican drug-cartels, and the issue of children being kidnapped. It doesn't beat the reader over the head with this, although it is quite dire.
November 11, 2013
Oh. My. Gawd. Okay, so it’s obvious that I’ve been bopping around different styles of romance these last couple of weeks, and I have to admit – I was in the mood for some good ole alpha romantic suspense. (Disclaimer: I received a copy of this in exchange for an unbiased review, blah blah blah.) This was SUCH a pulse pounding, stomach churning read. I want sooo much to comment on the core conflict in the book, but it would be too much of a spoiler – just suffice it to say that the moral depravity of some of the characters will leave you just wanting to VOMIT on your Kindle. Kay Thomas serves up the reality / danger of Mexican cartel kidnappings with a side dish of social commentary on organ donation in a way that will keep you on the edge of your seat, especially as the romance between Leland & Anna heats up to a boiling point. This is the first in her “Elite Ops” series and follows on the heels of her successful & award winning “Bulletproof” romantic suspense series. The book is almost 400 pages long & sells at Amazon for $2.99. In the mood for a romantic suspense? Then grab HARD TARGET and prepare to shoot a bulls-eye!
July 26, 2014
Won the book in a Goodreads Giveaway. (:
The book was an ordinary suspence one. However, there were a few things that differentiate it from other books in the genre.
The situation of Zach's health, for instance.
The bargain "suggested" to Anna by Tomas Rivera is another thing. I've never heard of such a thing.
I'm glad that no harm came to any of them, like happens often in books in this genre.
Of course, I always root for the couple to be together and have a happy ending.
I found it a bit annoying that there were a few misspellings in the book. But that was a minor thing that occured no more than five times, tops.
The book was a little standard, but I liked it anyway, and I was left wanting to hear the stories of the other characters as well. I can't wait for Nick's story to be published, and also Gavin, Marissa and Bryan's stories.
Can't wait for the next installment in the series!
The book was an ordinary suspence one. However, there were a few things that differentiate it from other books in the genre.
The situation of Zach's health, for instance.
The bargain "suggested" to Anna by Tomas Rivera is another thing. I've never heard of such a thing.
I'm glad that no harm came to any of them, like happens often in books in this genre.
Of course, I always root for the couple to be together and have a happy ending.
I found it a bit annoying that there were a few misspellings in the book. But that was a minor thing that occured no more than five times, tops.
The book was a little standard, but I liked it anyway, and I was left wanting to hear the stories of the other characters as well. I can't wait for Nick's story to be published, and also Gavin, Marissa and Bryan's stories.
Can't wait for the next installment in the series!
October 26, 2013
WOW!!! I could not put this book down once I statrted it, it took me a day and a half because of work, but I just finished it.. , I had the privialige to receive an advanced e-reader copy of this book, and I was not dissapointed. It had non-stop action that kept me on the edge of my seat. I had to tear myself away at lunch time to go back to work.
I thought about it the whole afternoon, until I could get home and finish it. I was very pleased with all the action and the simmering love story that was bound to come about. This will definitley be on my keeper shelf. First it has to be released, It is coming out on November 12th, so grab a copy and get immersed in Leland' s and Anna's adventure throught the Mexican jungle. I know Kay will be thrilled if you do.
Kay it was great, so how long before the next Elite Ops: comes out? LOL
Absolutely loved it!
Monica
I thought about it the whole afternoon, until I could get home and finish it. I was very pleased with all the action and the simmering love story that was bound to come about. This will definitley be on my keeper shelf. First it has to be released, It is coming out on November 12th, so grab a copy and get immersed in Leland' s and Anna's adventure throught the Mexican jungle. I know Kay will be thrilled if you do.
Kay it was great, so how long before the next Elite Ops: comes out? LOL
Absolutely loved it!
Monica
June 13, 2015
This is a first for me on many levels. I've never read a Kay Thomas novel. I don't recall reading an Avon Impulse book. And I am not a huge romance novel lover so I rarely pick them up.
Also note that I did win this in a contest. Not on Goodreads though.
I thought it was a pretty good book. The 'Hero' was super sexy and smart. The storyline was consistent, interesting and packed full of action. All of the characters to me were believable.
I'm not gonna nit pic because it's worth it to pick up if you like action romance novels. The few things that bothered me were probably more me and my tastes and certainly not the writers error.
If you like former DEA Agents, Ex-Military Men, Action and Romance then go ahead and pick this book up, it won't let you down.
Also note that I did win this in a contest. Not on Goodreads though.
I thought it was a pretty good book. The 'Hero' was super sexy and smart. The storyline was consistent, interesting and packed full of action. All of the characters to me were believable.
I'm not gonna nit pic because it's worth it to pick up if you like action romance novels. The few things that bothered me were probably more me and my tastes and certainly not the writers error.
If you like former DEA Agents, Ex-Military Men, Action and Romance then go ahead and pick this book up, it won't let you down.
May 24, 2015
After Leland's protective side gets him involved with Anna's family problems (soon to be ex-husband, child awaiting heart transplant), he slowly falls in love with the protective mother. As they struggle through their own trials, they draw closer together. I loved how the story wasn't a quick jump into bed, but showed 2 people fighting their own needs to protect a child and actually learn to love each other when they weren't looking. I also liked how the secondary characters were written into the story line. Immediately after finishing this one, I had to download number 2! Loved the story and can't wait til the 3rd comes out!
November 14, 2013
I was given this book by author for honest review. Leland Hollis is a DEA agent on the brink of retiring after a bust gone bad. Over hearing Anna Mercado talking to her son when her estranged husband breaks in on them he rushes to the rescue. They survive gunfights and explosions but will they survive a mother's willingness to do anything for her child. I literally could not put this book down, Fast paced to where I had to know what was going to happen next it didn’t disappoint. I am eager to dig into book 2 hopefully soon.
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