Trevor Maxwell Coyote shifter with an attitude Covert operator Trusts no one, especially his devastatingly beautiful new partner
Alina Bosch Former CIA, newest operative on the covert team Hired to spy on her partner Motto: "Never be deceived again."
Coyote shifter Trevor Maxwell is teamed up with CIA agent Alina Bosch to catch a killer. But when the mission becomes much more dangerous than they expected, they're going to have to ignore the attraction between them and learn how to trust one another to come out on the other side...
Paige Tyler is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, romantic suspense and paranormal romance. She and her very own military hero (also known as her husband) live on the beautiful Florida coast with their adorable fur baby (also known as their dog). Paige graduated with a degree in education, but decided to pursue her passion and write books about hunky alpha males and the kick-butt heroines who fall in love with them.
I haven't read a book in this genre in a while. I even didn’t think I might want to do it again. But this one turned out to be quite good.
I'm pretty sure I've read at least one book in this series. But I don't remember much of it. I'm also pretty sure it didn't have much to do with the storyline of this book, that is, looking for John's murderers. This was not a problem at all, everything relevant was well explained. And while I think reading this series in order probably makes more sense, reading this book without knowing the previous ones won't be a big deal.
The main characters in this book are Alina, a former CIA agent, and Trevor, a coyote shifter. I like that Alina is a really strong woman. She is not waiting to be saved, instead she takes the initiative and fights herself. I also like that Trevor, even though he is a shapeshifter and a man with a very strong personality, was not overly possessive. He looks after Alina, but does not limit her. She can still be herself and he is not trying to change that. Overall, I think they make a very good couple. I liked them more than I expected.
The romance is quite simple. But I am not going to say that I had any great expectations in this regard, so I was not particularly disappointed. I believe that is the case with all the books in this series or even genre. Alina and Trevor fall in love very quickly. And just as I often have a problem with that, in this case they fit together quite well. To be quite true, I read about book couples falling in love even faster. Here it all somehow fits the story.
I used to like books like this a lot, but recently I stopped reading them. However this one was quite a nice experience. Maybe I should give them a chance again. This is certainly not a book that I will remember in a month or so, but it's simple and straightforward entertainment, and that's what I was looking for.
As most people know, I'm a die hard fan of the X-Ops and SWAT series, they are both absolutely brilliant. I've followed the X-Ops books religiously, awaiting each installment eagerly and Trevor's story was no exception. I love the way Paige Tyler writes her books, the pages keep me in suspense and I'm always completely engrossed.....
However... for what ever reason, the shocking revelations in Her Dark Half were, for me, completely rushed, I had no idea that they were even going to happen but when they did, I was so disappointed that this was not played out with more detail and emotion. I was struck dumb! Those that have kept up with the series will know what this is about, how the events have taken place over a number of books came to an abrupt end within a chapter or two! Wow!! This kind of took the edge of this book for me...
I'm hoping that the next installment is going to allow me to savour the pages as previous books have, these stories are delicious, but this one? Not so much.
Her Dark Half is the 7th book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler. This story introduces and follows the main characters of Trevor Maxwell and Alina Bosch. Trevor has decided to stay at the DCO and act as a insider spy for his friends once they go into hiding after everything that happens in book 6. Alina is initially brought in to spy on Trevor but soon begins to realize everything at the DCO isn't what it may seem.
Like I've said many times before, I love this series and these characters, so I was beyond excited to start reading this book as soon as I finished the previous story. While I still enjoyed this story, it wasn't my favorite in the series. I think this had to do with it being a new character and another that we hadn't really gotten to know, so there wasn't so much of the build up as there was in some of the previous books. There were also parts where the story seemed slow and quite a few things that happened that I anticipated the whole time, but the ending seemed to pick up and also throw some surprises in.
I would probably rate this book somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. I did still enjoy the story and of course the writing. Even now after finishing this book, I'm left wanting more! Way to go Tyler on an amazing series that is truly addicting.
A series that has been building to a showdown and finally it came. Both sides step out of the shadows where suspicion, betrayal, lust, and opportunity for something passionate and exciting had me gripped by Her Dark Half.
As book seven of the X-Ops series, this one has plot threads that have been building through the whole series so it is not a good place to begin the series or a good choice for a standalone.
Coyote shifter, Trevor Maxwell, was a prominent minor player in the last book and now this is his story beside new coming, former CIA operative, Alina Bosch. I loved how this one read like a spy thriller with paranormal elements. Alina is out for revenge and betrayal is the nastiest word in her thinking so it was especially irresistible that she thinks Trevor is a murderer who betrayed his boss.
See, something big went down at the end of the last book that left a series fan like me nearly gutted. This book picked up the pieces and kept things strong. I would daresay this is possibly the most impactive one for me save the first book, Her Perfect Mate. It just felt a fantastic balance of all the elements that make a book special. It was action-packed, but it was well developed in overall plot, world, and characters as well. It brought things to a culmination here that delivered after all the expectation.
As to the romance pair, they were great partners on and off the job. I loved how it started so mistrusting and hostile, but then slowly they moved forward- together. A sizzling attraction buzzed beneath the surface and didn't culminate in anything until much later which was well-timed for all that was going on.
The stakes were pretty high in this one and there were a few shocks and twists. It felt like a worthy series finale- though, good news, there is more to come with a new series arc. I am so curious to get the deets on a certain new player's agenda and what it will mean for the DCO shifters and their people.
All in all, this one rocked my X-Ops loving mind. Those who love military/black ops style romantic suspense blended with the paranormal really should not pass up this series.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Love reading this author. Fast, engaging and thrilling. 7th book in the X-OP series. Kind of stands alone, but will mean more having read the previous books. There is an underlying storyline through the whole series of a political heavyweight with his own agenda. This book wraps up a few things, brings back many of the previous central characters and hands us a few surprises as well.
A tad slow and predictable for me in the middle, but the last 80+ pages at the end made it a winner.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also will purchase a copy to gift to a friend.
I somehow found myself jumping into the X-Ops series of paranormal romances with book eight. Luckily, since each book focuses on one couple, I wasn't at all lost. Alina Bosch is a former CIA agent who has been hired by the DCO (Department of Covert Operations) and told by her boss that she is being partnered with Trevor Maxwell who the director believes is a traitor to the organization.
Trevor Maxwell is a coyote shifter who is certain that his boss was complicit in the death of the former boss and Trevor's friend. Trevor is hanging around the organization only to find out who killed his friend and bring them to justice. He is sure that Alina has been hired to spy on him. The situation is perfectly set up to have the two of them really distrust each other. They do gradually learn to trust each other and fall in love too.
Meanwhile the bigger plot is becoming more clear. The man who is the head of the organization is trying to create hybrid shifters loyal only to him. He's more than willing to leave a string of bodies behind as the formula to create the hybrids is perfected. He is also guilty of a number of murders besides that of Trevor's friend.
Many of the characters in earlier books in the series make cameos in this one (based on blurbs of the other books) but the main focus is on Alina and Trevor. The romantic scenes are nicely spicy but not kinky. The action comes fast and furious as both Alina and Trevor confront their separate enemies.
Fans of spicy paranormal romantic suspense will enjoy this one.
Her Dark Half is the seventh installment in this series and I have been really neglecting this author of late. I am not sure why I have been doing it either because she really hooks me so easily. I just love how easily she draws me into her world-building plots. I really love this style of paranormal, where we get a blend of the PNR genre plus romantic suspense and some military lovin'. It's like all of my favorite aspects just thrown together into one and it's so beautiful the way that Paige Tyler really combines all of these elements. There is something so dynamic in her writing style, and even though this book wasn't right away "pull me into the story" after a chapter or so, I was really hooked into it. I did have trouble being in the mood for this book and I felt so sad about it however, I finally got my jive going with this one and it just drew me back into this world that I have missed and I can't wait to immerse myself back into more of this author's work.
Her Dark Half is a action-packed romance that features:
Alina Bosch- Ex CIA agent, working undercover, strong and vulnerable
Her Dark Half sets off with Trevor Maxwell, who is still working at the DCO, even though all of his friends have been forced on the run. But he is biding his time, trying to learn all that he can, and take down the leaders of the company who are trying to destroy everything he cares about. But now his boss is forcing him to partner with Alina, who happens to be Ex CIA. He knows that he can't trust her because he knows that she is a plant to get information on him to see if he is trustworthy or a traitor. Alina has been determined to never be deceived again. She was once betrayed while working at the CIA by someone she trusted the most and now she wants justice for that betrayal. But while on this assignment, she is asked to spy on Trevor, and see if he is hiding anything. She senses that he has many secrets and she wants to get to the bottom of those secrets. But what puts an added complication in the mix, is the intense chemistry that rises between Trevor and Alina. But when some secrets get revealed, Trevor and Alina will have to learn to trust in each other to fight the real enemy because the battle is just beginning...
Her Dark Half really picks up where the last book leaves off, but I was really surprised that I didn't need to read the previous books to remember everything that was happening. It has been about three to four years since I have read this author, so I thought I would forget everything. But it came roaring back to me the moment I started to read. And once I was about 20% in I was definitely back in love with this world and seeing all the characters in the overall plot and their involvement. I actually had such a good time with this book. I am not that surprised, because it is Paige Tyler, and she always delivers on such solid stories. I really loved the espionage feel to this story and seeing how crafty Trevor needs to be. The bond between Trevor and Alina was quite fun, and they get on so well together. And the chemistry is so flawless in this book, from beginning to end you see and feel the depths of it all and how it all comes together. There is so much emotion packed into this book and there were definitely tear-jerky moments at times and in the most unexpected ways too. My heart broke for some of the side characters and what they were facing. I would say if you are new to this author or this series, I highly recommend you read these books in order. Just due to the overall plot of the series as a whole, it is better to read them in order so you can fully understand and enjoy this world.
Overall I found Her Dark Half to be a compelling, intense-filled romance that combines so many edgy elements of the PNR and delivers in such a satisfying end while at the same time teasing you to pick up the next book.
This might be hard to believe, but I think Paige Tyler may have surpassed everything she has ever written in the spellbinding, thrilling HER DARK HALF. In the previous book, there was a shocking plot twist that boded well for this instalment, and to say the least Paige Tyler rose to the occasion brilliantly!
Trevor Maxwell, a coyote shifter, chose to stay on at DCO – the Department of Cover Operations – even after the proverbial excrement hit the fan in the previous book. He can’t accept what went on and he is bent on revenge. He is sent on a covert mission with a newcomer, Alina Bosch, formerly of the CIA. Alina became disenchanted with the Department and needed a change, and to say the least, when she got recruited, by the DCO, she could not have anticipated what was coming, not by a long shot.
And after reading the book, I know why the official blurb was so short: there are so many reveals, secrets, betrayals and shifts – pun intended – that it’s a bit difficult saying anything about the storyline without giving away any spoilers. Suffice it to say that HER DARK HALF is one of the most exciting instalments in the X-Ops series, if not the most, and that is one major achievement! At first, Trevor and Alina don’t trust each other, and for very good reasons, which will make it so much more difficult to work together when they are paired on a field mission. All the while, as they learn what makes the other tick, they slowly fall in love. I must say the romance was utterly convincing, very lovely indeed, and perfectly woven into the action. The plot is very intricate, the past, present and even the future play a part in the storyline, the ARC which started in fact in the first book, and yet HER DARK HALF can stand alone.
The plot is as complex as a shifter’s DNA, yet easy to follow, there are twists and turns that will make your gasp and race through the book. A lot of people are not what they appear to be, and there are marvellous new characters that are introduced and that I hope will play prominent parts in future books in this fab series! And Tanner!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
This book unlike the previous books in the series gives a lot of answers to questions that readers have wanted for some time. I finally found out the why and the who, for many questions, from the beginning of the series. All of the couples from previous books make an appearance in this book and try to help. You finally get some information on Adam, the shifter who started it all. The upcoming books will have new mysteries to solve.
Alina Bosch has been in the CIA for many years and had to deal with a huge betrayal from a co-worker. She no longer has much trust in other people and doesn’t put much stock in work partners. She is so burned out on the CIA she gets talked/conned into working for the DCO to find a traitor. She gets partnered up with the supposed traitor/shifter Trevor Maxwell. Trevor in turn does not trust Alina because he thinks she is a spy for the Director and that she wants to find out where the hiding shifters are located. Practice in the Shoot House goes very wrong because they can’t trust the other to watch their back. Alina gives the director information about someone important and causes that person problems. Can Trevor trust her with anything after that? On top of the trust issues Alina is dealing with seeing shifters for the first time and having to work with some and how to fight and win against others. Even though they don’t have trust, there is a strong physical attraction between them. Will they get on the same page and be able to help Trevor’s shifter friends? Will they be able to trust another person with their life?
I love this shifter series. I missed one or two somewhere because I didn't know some of the goings on but that being said, it is something you can pick up really quickly. Trevor is one of the few shifters left at the DCO. When he is teamed up with a new partner, an obvious spy for the 'other side', he isn't a happy camper. The attraction between the two is obvious but neither trusts the other. I really like Trevor. He has a tough guy attitude and a soft heart. The whole crew that I've grown to love through the series makes an appearance. I was heartbroken at the beginning with what all had happened but so glad that the characters I love are still there. Alina is still determined to catch the one who betrayed her and her team but she isn't sure what is going on at the DCO. She and Trevor, of course, are majorly attracted to each other but neither thinks they can trust the other so they keep things they should share to themselves. There is a lot of underhanded stuff going on and I couldn't read this quick enough. I liked the ending where it set it up for future books. I absolutely look froward to more from this author! It was a 4/5 for me. I must go back and find the one(s) I missed and can't wait for more!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Freaking awesome book. It's very fast paced, suspenseful, sexy, and will keep you reading until the very end. I was hooked from the first page. Alina was a CIA agent who's partner turned on her and her team. He killed them all but her. For the next few years she made it her mission to hunt him down. That is until DCO recruited her to keep on eye on her new partner, Trevor. Trevor is a shifter and covert operator and has a sarcastic sense of humor. He doesn't trust his new partner but is attracted to her anyway. Trevor and the rest of the shifters ( who are in hiding) are trying to get the goods on the guy who killed their leader, John. The more time spent, the more they start to trust each other. There is a lot of shooting, things blowing up, and a new breed of hybrids that are hard to kill. I believe this is my favorite so far. *Voluntarily reviewed for netgalley *
I knew that this book would be a bit different from previous books because of how Her True Match ended. The series has been building and building since book one. Things really came to a head and a lot happened at the end of book six. That leaves this current, book seven, to pick up the pieces and move the series forward.
The books in this series always start off in the past. We learn something about the new character that will be part of the main couple for that particular book. Here, we go back into Alina Bosch’s past. She was part of a team of CIA agents and she is betrayed by one of her teammates and the expense of the rest of the team. As you can imagine, revenge is very high on her list. She wants nothing more than retribution for her teammates lives. So, when she is given the opportunity to work in a different government branch and sniff out someone who betrayed their boss, you can imagine how quickly she jumped on the chance. Oh, they also offered to let her use resources to track down her dirtbag of an ex-teammate too.
Trevor Maxwell was a minor character who is getting his time to shine. He is a coyote shifter and has been an operative for DCO for years. He decided to stay, when many others left, to try to get information on what the corrupt people in power are doing up to. He is reporting back to Ivy and Landon.
It is safe to say that Trevor and Alina start off very rocky. Neither trusts the other and they both have good reason. It doesn’t take long before Alina starts to see that she wasn’t told the 100% truth and that Trevor isn’t the cold blooded killer she was told. Trevor starts to see that Alina is on the up and up and that they must work together to figure out what is going on at DCO.
This is a really fun series. I love the great mashup of suspense, action and romance. The fact that there are shifters (my favorite of all the paranormal species), doesn’t hurt anything either. Paige Tyler has done a great job with keeping things very interesting with the overall series arc and the diversity in characters. I really feel like every character is completely unique. Every couple has their own issues that they must overcome to be together. I can’t wait to see where she takes the series from here.
**Book was provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley. This review is my opinion and was not requested or provoked in anyway.
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!! ***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I received a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I am collecting this series in paperback!
The cover is pretty cool, but no animals on the cover which is my favorite kind of shifter cover.
This is the 7th book in the series. It is not necessary to read them in order, but I have a feeling it would make it much better if you did. This is for adults only due to the steamy content and violence. This book is about 350 pages.
This book is jammed pack with action and intrigue. I couldn’t put it down. I love Paige’s writing style because it is so engaging and descriptive. Action shifter books are my favorite kind of romance. Alina and Trevor both have trust issues. Alina is a kick butt agent who has some baggage from the CIA. Trevor is also kick butt and has baggage regarding who is trust worthy. They have a bunch of adventures and learn all sorts of things throughout the book. I love that this book isn’t predictable. You will be shocked at some of the things you learn. Of course the characters from previous books are a big part of this book.
I highly recommend to any shifter fan who loves action and intrigue in the romance! Paige kept me guessing what would happen next! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Lots of information that had previously been kept from the readers is finally revealed along with story arc's that were started in the first book getting wrapped up. . This series has been a perfect mix of Military men, cops, FBI and CIA and a group of shifters who work for the Department of Covert Affairs. Plenty of suspense, danger and romance in each book kept you turning the pages.
This series has always had a large ensemble cast along with all the couple's. Every one of those characters are back by the end of the book for a very satisfying ending to the series.
Her Dark Half by Paige Tyler is the 7th book in the X-ops series. Not having read the previous books in the series and having zero experience with the author I did not know what to expect. You may wonder why I chose to read this book. Well, the story is a combination of two (2) of my favourite genres, paranormal and suspense, which was enough incentive for me to grab this book.
What the story is about. Alina Bosch left the CIA after a botched mission left her entire team dead. The current head of the DCO recruited her to spy on Trevor Maxwell, her new partner. Trevor, a coyote shifter and a covert operative for the DCO is not keen on working with Alina. He suspects the reason for her being hired and believes she could not be trusted. However, when the mission to which they were assigned became deadly, they had no choice but to trust each other if they wanted to survive.
What I Loved. As you can see, I began the series with the seventh book. I thought I would have trouble following the story line, however, my worries were for naught. There was sufficient information to help me understand what transpired in the previous instalments that led to the current events. I like that each book is about a different couple and after reading Her Dark Half; I became curious about the other couples mentioned. That being said, I will be reading the remaining books.
I loved the couple in this installment. Before I continue, I should warn you that this was not a slow burn romance. Their attraction to each other was instant in spite of the circumstances under which they met, which was riddled with hostility and mistrust. However, I enjoyed watching them move past these feelings and embracing the attraction that sizzled between them.
I adored Trevor. I found his sense of humour endearing and contagious. I loved his take-charge attitude and his determination. He takes crap from no one and tells it likes he sees it. Behind of all of this laid a caring heart. Alina is a snarky, blunt, kick ass and determined female. Together she and Trevor made a perfect team not only in the field but also on a personal level.
This fast-paced story held my attention from the first page. I had a hard time putting my kindle down. The suspense, action and romance was well-balanced. Well-written fight scenes, loads of action and a sizzling romance made for an exciting and thrilling read. There were a few stunning twists and turns. Tyler created a world, which for me was unique and captivating. I enjoyed every moment spent in this world and I am eager to learn more.
Conclusion/Recommendation Overall, this was an exciting read. I was happy with how the events unfolded and how the story ended. Fans of paranormal romance and romantic suspense should definitely check this out.
This is book 7 in the X-OP's series. There is are several series arcs that make this series best read in order. However they can be read as stand alones. In this book we get the conclusion of one of the over-arcing as well as new ones being started. There are a few big reveals and some threads neatly tied as well as some left hanging. All in all a satisfying read.
Trevor Maxwell is a coyote shifter. Left working in the government agency after all his friends have had to leave for their own safety, he is on the hunt for evidence against the man that had his boss and friend killed. Knowing he's under the killer's watchful eye, he is paired with a new partner, former CIA agent, Alina Bosch. After a few uneasy days, they start to work together as a team and learn to trust each other.
I have to say, I was a little disappointed with this book. While I did enjoy it, I felt the story was predictable and the 'reveals' I saw coming a mile away. I did like all the action and how the story flowed but I did find it easy to put down. Once I was reading it was engaging with lots of action but I wanted a little more. There were several perspectives as well and I would have preferred to spend more time with the main characters and less with side characters. I think that was a lot about building to that characters book (his is the next one in the series) but I would have liked less of that. I felt that the story tried to take on too much. We have a backstory that is conveniently connected to the bad guys, set up for the next book as well as showcasing the next bad guys for the series. Also more information about the hybrids and a whole big section where they are dealing with a hybrid that seems to have nothing to do with this particular story.
I did enjoy seeing many of the characters from previous books and finding more about the first shifter at the agency. I am very interested to see more about him. The action was good and kept the pace moving. As always I enjoyed how Alina was more than capable of holding her own when she and Trevor were on missions. This book took place mainly in a small area so we don't get too much of them out kicking butt together but there are some scenes where she is able to showcase her skills and she is just as impressive as Trevor's shifter abilities.
Overall I am still interested in this series and seeing where the author goes with it. There are plot points that were specifically left open that will hopefully be dealt with in the next book.
'Her Dark Half' is a book that has been coming for a long time, or at least the revelations in it, where the narrative arc comes to an end, so to speak, before another begins.
There's clearly too much to recount here, but along with Alina's and Trevor's romance, Paige Tyler finally answers the questions (at least many of them) that I'd ranted about not being addressed in her previous books' narratives that simply coasted along. For this reason, I'm not sure if this book would work as a standalone, because the more critical parts of the backstory and the buildup that happen in some of her past stories definitely would contribute to a fuller reading experience in this one.
I did like Alina/Trevor for most part, but most importantly, Alina's deception wasn't one that was held to the very end and then becoming the major conflict between her and Trevor. Paige Tyler simply had bigger fish to fry, too much action to write, more hybrids/shifters to put through the wringer and more bombs to drop on the unsuspecting reader. The opening up of the X-Ops world after this major shakeup is one that I'm definitely looking forward to and I'm really curious to see what else Tyler has in store after this.
OMG THIS BOOK!! Book seven of Paige Tyler's X-Ops series answers all the questions. It's an epic conculsion to the continuing story arc that has been asking the big question why? But it's not over!
Trevor is a coyote shifter who chose to stay behind after the events of the last book and keep an eye on Dr. Dick and Thorn and see what they have planned for the DCO, then reporting back to Adam. DDr. Dick and Thorn know they don't have Trevor's loyalty and assign him an ex-CIA operative who expertise is tracking down traitors. After Alina's own experience with a turncoat that got her team killed she vowed she would track him down and kill him if it was the last thing she ever did, but her determination and one track mind was not what the CIA had planned for her. When she was approached by Dr. Dick he lured her to the DCO by telling her she would have a chance to go after her target.
Trevor and Alina don't trust each other they have no reason to trust each other, yet. Trevor knows Alina is there to spy on him for Dr.Dick and Thorn while Alina was told that he is conspiring with the team of X-Op teams that, well the events of the last book. But the more Trevor takes her on leads the more she realizes that it didn't happen the way Dr. Dick said it did, the truth is so much more frightening. Their gut feeling is telling them to trust the other, along with their libido. They are strongly attracted to each other and after one life threatening lead they give into the attraction. Together they unravel the mystery.
Overall, this was jaw dropping, screaming YES! out loud book. That tells all and then hints to even more mysteries to come.
✦Spotlight, Review, Excerpt & Giveaway: HER DARK HALF (X-Ops) by Paige Tyler http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-9GT Publication Date: September 5, 2017 Genre: Paranormal Romance Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna Rated 4.5 Stars
I enjoyed this rollercoaster ride of a story. It never let up on the intensity so that I could catch my breath. Between the dangerous action and heated romance, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Although it would be easy enough to figure out what was going on, it isn’t a stand-alone novel, even though Alina is a new character. Reading the others in this series will help you know the players and the why of their actions. Trevor and Alina make a believable pair, and the lead-in to the next book has me waiting impatiently.
*Review copy provided NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Trevor Maxwell is a DCO operator and coyote shifter who stayed after the murder of John so he could get the people responsible. Alina Bosch is former CIA whose team was killed by a traitor. She was hired by the DCO to be Trevor's partner and spy on him. As Trevor's mission becomes more dangerous and the attraction between him and Alina grows, can they learn to trust one another?
I'm really enjoying this series and this book was no exception. It's full of intrigue and fast moving, I was hooked from beginning to end. It's well-written with well-rounded characters whether you like them or not. I'm looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order.
Great characters, I loved seeing them learn to trust each other. Great ending to the story arc, and I was thrilled to have confirmation of what I thought about a big nasty surprise in the previous volume.
BUT as it was the case in the last book in PT's SWAT series where there were 11 chapters of Her Dark Half, here the story only takes 2/3 of the book, the rest is 9 chapters of the next SWAT's book. I find this frustrating.
Do they know what covert means? DNF @ 50% *SPOILERS*
This is the seventh book in the X-Ops series but can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read any of the other books and had no difficulty following the story, but there were pieces that I imagine would have greater depth and explanation if the reader had the other books as background. That said, those occasional lack of information moments were not why I gave up on this book. The sole reason I couldn’t finish this is the complete unbelievability of the characters and their actions as covert agents.
I could go on and on about all the blatantly illogical things the characters in this book did that no real covert agent would do but I think I’ve made my point. In between these nonsensical actions, the book was terrifyingly dull. I was bored out of my mind with the slow pacing and the lack of anything substantial. Even the romance didn’t hold my attention because I felt no emotions for or from either character. Very flat.
I would skip. This book definitely makes me hesitant to pick up another novel by this author.
Originally posted on I Smell Sheep * A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
With everything that happened in the previous book, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Her Dark Half to see just how my favorite characters old and new would handle the fallout.
The setup is that after the murder of his former boss, Coyote shifter Trevor Maxwell doesn’t know who to trust outside of the now branded “rogue” shifters accused of murdering said boss. Trevor certainly doesn’t trust his new human partner Alina Bosch, a former CIA agent secretly hired to spy on Trevor. But they’re definitely attracted to each other and they don’t have much time to learn to trust each other before their real enemies close in on them.
From the very start, Her Dark Half hit the ground running and kept up a pretty fast pace which I appreciated because there was a definite sense of urgency and a small window of time that Trevor and Alina had to work with. I could almost hear the clock ticking in my mind as the plot progressed and it seemed like Trevor and Alina would put the puzzle pieces together too late. All of Tyler’s books have that “can’t put it down to save my life” feel but this book totally got my blood pumping and had me biting my nails for real with how narrowly these two escaped with their lives.
As a couple though, Trevor and Alina’s romance kind of took a back seat because, hello! There were a few more important things to get done and lives to save but that didn’t mean that there wasn’t a romance. I loved how Paige Tyler made their romance seem natural even though they started off not trusting each other. The timeline was pretty quick for a romance but I felt it was more of a this is a great beginning to something real kind of love for Trevor and Alina. If that makes sense.
The big plot twist that occurred in the previous book is resolved here which okay I thought was a bit quick but at the same time there were a lot of loose ends that could keep the series going for a long time (Oh please let it keep going for a long time, it’s one of my favorites). I did love the twists and turns that happened towards the end because it made me feel like while the Big Bad was down, he wasn’t the only Big Bad, in fact there are bigger, badder ones out there that this tight knit group may not be prepared for. That uncertainty makes for very exciting possibilities and again, more books.
Her Dark Half can technically be read as a standalone BUT I wouldn’t suggest it. Start at the beginning of the series so that the build up to this point leaves you with the best feeling. I kid you not it is worth the time.
Her Dark Half is book seven in Paige Tyler's X-Ops series. I have not read any of the other books in this series so jumping in with book seven was probably not the greatest idea. Her Dark Half has a lot going on outside of the main storyline, a lot of it I struggled to follow as I didn't have the background information that I needed from the other books. Obviously, this is my fault as a reader and isn't a criticism of the author. I was, however, able to follow the main storyline and the romance without issue and I found it mostly enjoyable. Her Dark Half is action packed and the romance was good. However, it failed to grip me like other books in this genre has. Her Dark Half is an entertaining book that unfortunately lacked a little character. Despite this, I will be making an effort to read more books from this series.
Her Dark Half by Paige Tyler is the 7th book in her wonderful X-Ops series. When we last left off in the last book, our heroes throughout this series were all on the run. The man they trusted who ran DCO (Department of Covert Operations) was killed, and the two major villains were out to arrest and kill them all. It was a huge game changer.
In Her Dark Half, Trevor Maxwell, our hero, was still working with DCO, but he was acting undercover helping his former teammates in hiding. The goal was to find evidence to prove that Thomas Thorne, who was now in charge, was behind all hybrids being created to build his own army. Trevor is forced to accept a new partner, who was new to DCO.
The story starts off a few years prior, where we meet our heroine, Alina Bosch, who is a CIA agent leading a mission that goes bad. Alina lost her whole team because her partner betrayed them and had set up a trap. Alina has spent this few years wanting revenge, but has not been able to find her ex partner. Alina leaves her job with the CIA and accepts a job with DCO, having been tempted by DCO that they will help her find her ex partner. Alina is told by Dick (one of the two villains) that she needs to spy on her new partner…Trevor. She finds it hard to trust anyone, but she sees something about Trevor that makes her suspect that there is more than she has been told. Trevor, at first also doesn’t trust Alina, but pretty quickly they are in the middle of some attacks, and Alina begins to realize that Dick is using her information to kill those that they have interviewed.
Trevor and Alina will also become very attracted to each other, and in a short time a romance will begin. Alina will realize that Trevor is a good guy, and also learn about him being a shifter; they will join hands to fight off hybrid attacks. What follows is an intense, fast paced, exciting and dangerous attempt to reveal the truth about Thomas Thorne and those now in charge at DCO. It was great and fun to see all our former heroes, such as Landon, Ivy, Tanner, Declan, Kendra, Danica, Adam, Braden, Dreya, just to name a few. It will take the entire team to band together to fight these ultra powerful hybrids, who are impossible to kill. Of course, one of those powerful hybrids, is the man Alina has been trying to find all these years.
The last half of the book was very suspenseful, with a few twists, and a thrilling ride to the finish. Paige Tyler, as always, gives us another terrific story, with another wonderful couple. I do not know what she has in store of us next, but the game has changed and I can’t wait to see how this will affect our team. Her Dark Half should not be read out of order; this is not a standalone. You need to start from the beginning, in order to enjoy all the wonderful characters and the continuing story line.
Her Dark Half by Paige Tyler is the 7th book in the X-ops series. Not having read the previous books in the series and having zero experience with the author I did not know what to expect. You may wonder why I chose to read this book. Well, the story is a combination of two (2) of my favourite genres, paranormal and suspense, which was enough incentive for me to grab this book.
What the story is about. Alina Bosch left the CIA after a botched mission left her entire team dead. The current head of the DCO recruited her to spy on Trevor Maxwell, her new partner. Trevor, a coyote shifter and a covert operative for the DCO is not keen on working with Alina. He suspects the reason for her being hired and believes she could not be trusted. However, when the mission to which they were assigned became deadly, they had no choice but to trust each other if they wanted to survive.
What I Loved. As you can see, I began the series with the seventh book. I thought I would have trouble following the story line, however, my worries were for naught. There was sufficient information to help me understand what transpired in the previous instalments that led to the current events. I like that each book is about a different couple and after reading Her Dark Half; I became curious about the other couples mentioned. That being said, I will be reading the remaining books.
I loved the couple in this installment. Before I continue, I should warn you that this was not a slow burn romance. Their attraction to each other was instant in spite of the circumstances under which they met, which was riddled with hostility and mistrust. However, I enjoyed watching them move past these feelings and embracing the attraction that sizzled between them.
I adored Trevor. I found his sense of humour endearing and contagious. I loved his take-charge attitude and his determination. He takes crap from no one and tells it likes he sees it. Behind of all of this laid a caring heart. Alina is a snarky, blunt, kick ass and determined female. Together she and Trevor made a perfect team not only in the field but also on a personal level.
This fast-paced story held my attention from the first page. I had a hard time putting my kindle down. The suspense, action and romance was well-balanced. Well-written fight scenes, loads of action and a sizzling romance made for an exciting and thrilling read. There were a few stunning twists and turns. Tyler created a world, which for me was unique and captivating. I enjoyed every moment spent in this world and I am eager to learn more.
Conclusion/Recommendation Overall, this was an exciting read. I was happy with how the events unfolded and how the story ended. Fans of paranormal romance and romantic suspense should definitely check this out.
WARNING - ENTIRE PLOT SUMMARY AHEAD (used for me to keep track of series events) REALLY - DON'T READ THIS; IT SUMMARIZES BOOK.
find out near end that John is alive, has wife and 10 year old shifter (super young to shift) Boo.
End of Thorn story arc. other reviewer: "the shocking revelations in Her Dark Half were, for me, completely rushed, I had no idea that they were even going to happen but when they did, I was so disappointed that this was not played out with more detail and emotion. I was struck dumb! Those that have kept up with the series will know what this is about, how the events have taken place over a number of books came to an abrupt end within a chapter or two!"
Thorn wants to create hybrid army to start WWIII, making $ in arms sales. Huge battle, lots of injuries. Thorn, Dick, Frasier all killed.
Fallout: Some hybrids surrender - what to do with them? Sage (unstable hybrid) stressed. Tanner (usually pretty stable hybrid) loses his shit during battle and attacks friends and enemies; takes off after battle.
Shifters convince cops that battle was practice fire. DCO restructured. John refuses to re-take Deputy Directorship. wants to concentrate on his family. Landon will be Deputy Director. People who left returning. Thorn's business destroyed. Story set up that he left country with soldiers and researchers. DCO will be headed by committee member/congresswoman Rebecca Brannon; great at crisis management and resolving DCO post battle. Sends Thorn's goons and hybrids to supermax facility; tells them to be good and they'll be let out. New Director politician William Hamilton (oddly - father of Declan's ex-fiancee). Declan and Kendra don't trust him, but think he functions well under pressure.
Epilogue: Out from under Thorn, but.... Rebecca Brannon is evil. Behind one of the plots to create hybrids. Lover is William Hamilton. She tells him to kill Dr Mahsood (serum inventor) and Ashley - the shifter who was imprisoned at the psych facility. Turns out Ashley is their daughter, who was institutionalized to protect Rebecca's political future because she was unwed mom. Ashley had escaped; he theorizes escape to Canada, but also tells Rebecca that Ashley is "psychotic and hates you with a passion." Tells Hamilton to be subtle with DCO leadership and watch agents. She is the one who convinced John to quit and focus on family. She says to end hybrid program because they don't need it anymore. Since they control DCO, they have access to the best covert agents in the world. Needs to end program so that Landon doesn't find out they were behind research.
Misc: Adam is reptilian shifter. His bite is poisonous.
Kendra gives birth to twins during gunfight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Her Dark Half was a little hard for me to get into at first. This is also the seventh book in this series and I have read none of the previous ones. I got this copy of the book from NetGalley for review purposes. I will say that by 28% (thank you kindle) I got HOOKED into this book. The mystery of waiting to see how they get the baddie was a lot of fun to read. The events that occur within the book flow naturally. Thanks to the author's skillful writing tying you in. So if you haven't read the previous books like me, you will be fine to pick this up. You get a feel for the world and previous events pretty early in the book.
I love shifter style books because the idea is just magical. Who wouldn't want to be an animal right? In Her Dark Half, there are some who are born as shifters. And then there are some who were kidnapped, tortured and, turned into shifters with science backed by a shady congressman. Thorne is an evil man, and it is left to the only shifter left in the DCO to ferret out the truth of all the previous events from other books. Trevor is a coyote shifter and he only has a few friends left that are helping out. Thorne thinks he is slick and hires a former CIA agent who is skilled at getting traitors to be Trevor's partner.
Alina is a bad-ass with a past. She quit working for the CIA because she been obsessed in finding a criminal. The criminal had once been her team member who betrayed her whole team killed. Alina was so obsessed with finding traitors that it became her specialty. Alina got sick of doing that job. Always looking for people in your own ranks who are traitor's has got to wreck your emotions. So Alina saw a new opportunity to work with the DCO and took it. The problem was she didn’t' realize that she would be watching her new partner Trevor to see if he is a traitor.
To start these two do not trust each other at all. Alina is under the impression that Trevor is probably a traitor. Trevor knows that Alina is most likely a plant to keep an eye on him so he can't bust Thorne and Dick. Dick is the current head of the DCO and he is definitely shady. There are a bunch of shifters who are on the run, one is even pregnant. And they are all trying to survive and find out what Dick and Thorne are up to. There are a lot of people in this story that are from the earlier books and you get to see parts of them but not much. There are more books in the series and this series seems pretty solid from what I have read. It had solid action and solid action.
Back at the DCO dating service...the hookup place.
Aside for the predictable DCO partner hookup, I'm on the fence with this one...sort of. I did find it a semi enjoyable read but I had a few issues with this story which wouldn't allow me to give it a higher rating or a better review.
There was no chemistry between Alina and Trevor...
The relationship just didn't work for me. It was superficial and untested and untried.
The Kathy/Molly factor...
I have no idea why Kathy, Alina's BFF and neighbor, was even in the book other than to care for Alina's dog Molly. And why in the world would Alina have a dog in the first place in her former line of work? Totally irresponsible and made no sense. Kathy adds nothing to this series other than annoyance.
Shifters galore...
The story felt rushed and forced. The characters who were previously well written in this series, seem like shells of their former selves in Her Dark Half. I know this is Alina and Trevor's story but when Landon, Ivy, Declan, Kendra, Clayne, Danica, Layla, Jayson, Angelo, Minka, Dreya and Braden are thrown in the mix for the big showdown, it falls flat. I think it was character overload but the characters didn't have enough to do.
John and Adam...
My hunch about John's death is on the money. Who killed John and why is finally answered. My curiosity about Adam is somewhat appeased in getting a better sense of who and what kind of shifter he is.
Thorne and Dick...
Thorne is truly mad--he reminds me of a certain leader of a certain country...What he has planned for his new hybrids is unfathomable. Dick thinks he's in the thick of things and knows what's going on in the plan but he really has no idea he has gotten in bed with the antichrist.
In Summary...
The story comes across as a summation of the previous six books (and ebook), which isn't a bad thing, but there is no pretense and it comes across as exactly that. For me, the story didn't get interesting until Chapter 12 when Alina meets up with Wade, a member of her old CIA team, who has really changed since last she saw him. And when they meet face to face, somebody's gotta go and you can bet who it's going to be.