Ruthless Cross

Off the Grid: FBI #6

by Barbara Freethy

Everyone has a secret. Some are worth killing for… some are worth dying for…

FBI agent Flynn MacKenzie is no stranger to deception, but when the brutal murder of a federal judge unravels an intricate and shocking web of lies, he finds himself tangled up in personal life-changing secrets and in the arms of a woman he isn't sure he can trust.

Callie Harper not only wants justice for her stepfather, she also wants to protect her family. Staying close to Flynn seems like the smart option, until she starts to fall for the man who could hurt everyone she loves.

The lines between good and bad, guilty and innocent, are blurred. Callie and Flynn quickly realize their search for the truth could take them somewhere they don't want to go... if they can stay alive long enough to get there.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Mystery, Suspense, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

346 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 12, 2019

About the author

Barbara's love of writing developed out of a love of reading. Growing up in an all-boy neighborhood, she spent quite a bit of time reading through her mother's large library, many of which were romantic novels. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Barbara, she went into Public Relations, but soon discovered that writing was her true passion.

Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.

Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.

When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!

For a complete list of her books, visit her website!

Reviews

[Debbie Oliphant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I love this series and I love the way this author can tell a suspenseful story and keep the content fresh, engaging and entertaining.

Flynn has been a character in the previous books as an FBI agent. He receives a request from an old friend to attend an Art Exhibit because he needs a favor. He arrives at the exhibit and his friend tells him that he believes he is being followed, but will share more at the event. Flynn doesn't get the chance to learn more because his friend is murdered during the exhibit. This is just the first chapter and there are many suspects. Flynn recruits the stepdaughter, Callie, for help as her mom may be a suspect. However, as the two uncover clues, they learn that his friend had secrets and they are revealing some old wounds and Flynn is unsure if he wants to learn the truth.

Callie becomes a rock for Flynn and he is having feelings for her that he has not experienced before. Their feelings are tested as they find themselves in a dangerous plot and Flynn must make a choice between his heart or what is required as an FBI agent.

This is my favorite series and I am so happy that there are more characters and more stories to come. They are an addiction and each plot has a unique twist that keeps you engaged from the beginning.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from the first page until the last. When Flynn’s old friend and the father of his deceased girlfriend calls up asking for help, Flynn goes to him. Before he can find out what the judge wanted, the man is murdered. Now Flynn, along with the help of the judge’s stepdaughter, Callie, must unravel what happened before someone else winds up dead.

Callie is weary of Flynn. Not only because he suspects her mother may be involved in the murder, but she hasn’t had much luck with men in the past. Flynn is weary of Callie because he worries Callie is trying to cover for her mother. Both have issues trusting one another, but it was fun watching them learn how to do so.

The suspense was well-written, and there were so many potential suspects that it made it difficult to pinpoint who was behind murder and why.

For those who have read the other books in the series, characters from those books do make appearances in this one. It was nice to see them all again. For those that haven’t, don’t worry, this book can be read as a standalone.

If you enjoy great romantic suspense, look no further. This author is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense, and she has never let me down.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy**

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another exciting, fast paced, suspenseful book by Ms. Freethy. It is amazing that Flynn works for the FBI and is such a good person. It sure didn’t happen through his father’s example. Flynn did learn so much about art from his father. Flynn is determined to find the killer of the judge who stood in as a father example to him growing up. The judge’s step daughter Callie is horrified how he died and has to take care of her sensitive mother. There are many secrets in the art world as well as stolen paintings. Flynn and his team has their work cut out for them to figure out who killed the judge. Callie wants to stick by Flynn to help prove her mother had nothing to do with the murder. I felt bad that Callie has had to take care of her mother most of her life. Callie definitely doesn’t feel like she can have a relationship in her life even though she starts having feelings for Flynn. This is a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out all the twists and turns the book takes. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The time has come. The stage has been set. There's danger on the horizon and fear is a sure bet. Count on Freethy to thrill your socks off, while running away with your heart. Ruthless Cross had me holding my breath and biting my nails as I sat on the edge of my seat. Caught in an epic battle of good verses evil, two strangers risk everything to get to the truth. Flynn may come across as the man in charge, but Callie is no shrinking violet. With a smart mouth, a quick mind and an aching heart, this duo of necessity grabs hold of the senses and powers their way under your skin.

[Brenda Horton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the best

I have enjoyed all the books in this series so far but found this one lacking. I expected more from a book about Flynn. He came across a strong leader in all the other books but this book about him he was wishy washy and I didn't enjoy the book at all. I ended up skipping they most of it

[Mary Kent · Rating 3 out of 5]

FBI Agent Action is Inappropriate

It was unbelievable, that Flynn would be forced to take a civilian to a crime scene daily. He could not solve the case without her input. Not believe able. This was the only one of the series that was off putting. His Father was more likeable that any of the main characters.

[Judy Churchill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this episode. Lots of terror and lots of human interaction. A daughter caring for her mother, a son lost in hatred for his father and a love that comes together and grows. . . all in this episode. Not to mention the horrendous murders and art thefts.

[Twobchelm · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story line was entertaining dealing in murders in the art world. The love interest became a little tedious and sometimes just plain sappy….

[Patti Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Barbara Freethy has once again delivered an incredible romantic thriller with Ruthless Cross. Each book in Barbara Freethy's Off the Grid: FBI series gets better and better. I absolutely loved Ruthless Cross, the sixth book in her Off the Grid: FBI series. Ruthless Cross had me guessing throughout the story as to who was behind the murder of Arthur Corbyn and the other thrilling events. I could not put it down. I loved every page. I really enjoy how the book is told from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. Barbara Freethy has once again proven that she is a master storyteller. Ruthless Cross is the story of Flynn MacKenzie, an undercover FBI agent and Callie Harper, a chef and step-daughter of Judge Arthur Corbyn. Flynn and Callie meet at an art exhibition at an art museum. Arthur invited Flynn to the exhibition, because he needs his help. Arthur has been a father figure to Flynn, since the death of Arthur’s daughter, Olivia, who was Flynn’s girlfriend. As the exhibition begins, Arthur’s body falls from an upper floor. Flynn decides to get to the bottom of Arthur’s murder and the reason why Arthur wanted him to attend the exhibition. Callie wants to help Flynn with his investigation, especially since her mother Julliette, is Flynn’s prime suspect. Flynn cannot interview Juliette, because Callie had her admitted on a seventy-two-hour psych hold. After multiple attempts on their lives, the relationship between Flynn and Callie changes. Neither is sure if their relationship is just fueled by the adrenaline from the chase. I loved the relationship between Flynn and Callie. Flynn reaches out to his team for help. Eventually all clues lead them to Arthur’s secret life and the reason behind his murder. I really enjoy the poignant and bittersweet moments, the plot twists and the surprises that I have come to love and expect in Barbara Freethy's books and Ruthless Cross did not disappoint. One of my favorite parts of the story are the poignant moments that Callie has during conversations with her Mom. I loved all the secrets that Flynn and Callie shared with one another. I love that all the characters from the previous books were included in Ruthless Cross. It felt like a family reunion and I loved catching up with the other characters from the series. I love how she resolved the Arthur’s murder; I did not see that happening. I love how all Barbara Freethy's epilogues, wrap up the ending of the story and are always my favorite part of her books. I love how all the loose ends got tied up. I love all the characters and the way Barbara describes the locations in and around Los Angeles. It was really an incredible story and I loved every page.

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC for honest review with no compensation

Ruthless Cross is book 6 in the Off the Grid: FBI series by Barbara Freethy an a great addition to this series!

We have read about Flynn MacKenzie, another FBI agent in the prior books in this series and now it’s time for his story...

When Flynn is contacted by his friend Arthur who is also a federal judge that he needs help but before they can talk the judge is murdered with one possible suspect being his wife. Callie Harper wants justice for her stepfather, the judge and to protect her mother who is a suspect in his death. Flynn and Callie need to work together to solve the murder but Can Flynn trust Callie?

Deception, murder, lies and secrets keep you on the edge of your seat and when you think you have it all figured out...something else happens...

[ROBIN RUIZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruthless Cross continues the FBI Off The Grid Series with another great adventure !
This time is Flynn .. Flynn has been exposed to the art world both legal and illegal since he was a kid. His dad is an art thief who left him and his mom years ago to avoid prison.

Callie has been taking care of her mom since she was a little girl. When he’d mothers new husband is murdered at an art gallery, her mother is the first suspect !

Callie and Flynn stay close together during the investigation, attracted to but not necessarily trusting each other. Theft, murder, secrets , exploring the past and present only add to the adrenaline rush, that only Barbara Freethy can write !

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest addition to the FBI series is exciting and enthralling and I just could not put it down! Well written it’s filled with action, suspense, murder, mystery, grief, heartbreak and romance and of course the team is right in the thick of it all! I love Flynn and Callie and got totally lost in their story as I followed them as they unravelled this thriller / mystery . I have loved all of these books and would totally recommend them.

[Linda A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspense, Danger, Love

The Off The Grid:FBI series continues to be a joy to read. The plot of #6 is fascinating and believable. I love how each FBI character has an individual story brought to "life", yet it you happen to read the series out of order, you will not be confused or find less enjoyment. Ms. Freethy dives into the world of art and the result is a well plotted story with great characters. I am eager for book 7!

[Sherri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good but for 6th in series, getting predictable

Have to admit that the first 3 books were better. It seems to run a similar theme. This book involved Flynn's dad. Previous one in series involved Diego's mom. Agent and civilian partner hook up around chapter 20. Crime/murder solved in 23-26 chapters.

[Di OBRIEN · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just okay, in my opinion. Although it wasn't apparent until the very end who the killer was, this never gave me that edge-of-my-seat anticipation that makes a really good story of romantic suspense. There were also too many things that probably wouldn't happen in real life or at least would have been handled differently.. On the plus side, it is a standalone with a nice ending.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Flynn is fascinating, with an interesting personal history and a present that is getting more complicated by the page. Callie was awesome, although I got a bit frustrated - how dare you horn in on an FBI investigation?? This book kept me on tenterhooks from beginning to end!

[Whispers From · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flynn is a FBI agent and head of his own task force. He was involved in the forgery division because of his father. His father, owned an art gallery, and ran off because he was a thief and was about to get caught. Flynn is contacted by an old friend, Arthur a judge, and asked to meet him at a art showing. Before Flynn gets to talk to him, he's pushed over a railing and dies.
Callie is a chef and her mother is married to Arthur. Her mother has mental issues and has been hospitalized several times. Callie's mother was seen arguing with Arthur on video so that makes her a suspect. Callie ends up having to have her mother put in the hospital when she tries to jump off the balcony.
Flynn and Callie work together to find the killer. Callie helps to get her mother off the suspect list and Flynn believes it could be her mother so he's looking for evidence. Several incidents happen and Flynn wants to keep an eye on Callie. The more they are together the closer they get. When Callie is taken, will Flynn let the one person who he has been after, help?
Edge of your seat suspense. Action. A little sex. Two people who have kept their hearts walled up might just find their true love. I loved this story.

* Received a copy from Bookfunnel *

[Robert Crouch · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a federal judge and friend is murdered, FBI Agent Flynn MacKenzie must investigate. While there’s a possible conflict of interest, his knowledge of the art world and the judge make him the best investigator for the job. Naturally, being a romantic suspense novel, he’s going to fall for the girl, Callie Harper, stepdaughter of the judge, making his otherwise complicated life even more complicated.

Did I mention his father was an art thief who ran out on the family twenty years ago?

While it sounds formulaic, the story is told with such heart and emotion, it’s impossible not to be swept along. The main characters are sharply drawn and well-portrayed, with that potent mixture of strength and vulnerability to make them real. While the plot seems to play second fiddle at times to the characters, it soon picks up momentum when Flynn and Callie discover secrets and edge closer to the truth and the murderer.

It all ends with an exciting climax and revelation that keeps you guessing. While I’m sure I’m not the target reader for this type of story, it’s quality story-telling with a high emotional quota that kept me turning the pages to the end.

I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Marti · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ruthless Cross by Barbara Freethy

Ruthless Cross by Barbara Freethy is a romantic thriller! It is the next book in the series Off the Grid: FBI #6. The storyline caught my attention from the outset and even with all the twists and turns I found myself becoming more entranced. I felt lots of concern for the characters and worried how the resolution would happen.

FBI agent Flynn MacKenzie was contacted by an old friend for help. When he met up with him at an art opening, it was in time to see his death. Callie Harper is the step daughter of his old friend and Flynn immediately is drawn to her. She is protecting her mother and seems to have some knowledge he needs. Add into this maelstrom, Flynn’s father’s (an art thief and blackmarketer with art) name keeps coming up. Flynn and Callie work together to find answers and unravel the new questions that come up. Then there was the threat on their life. Both want a resolution, before the stakes become too high.

Ruthless Cross by Barbara Freethy is a good read.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the parts about the art heist, the murder, Flynn's' father and I could even accept the serial killer aspect.

I expected more from Flynn. In previous books he seemed like a strong, capable leader. When Callie entered the picture, he wimped out at every turn. The book went down hill from there.

I was so irritated. How was it that this seasoned FBI agent in charge of his own team was going to let a chef (whose mother was a suspect btw) interrogate witnesses, suspects, withhold evidence, participate in every interrogation, and travel to places needing to be investigated?

Callie was whiny and entitled. I have to say the narrator did an excellent job of voicing her character. Her whiny interference with an FBI investigation came across full force. Both characters were such turnoffs in this book. I would give this 2.5 stars.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suspense, Romance

Loving this series!
Taking place in the art world of which I know next to nothing about made me develop a bit more interest into the actual art world.
Flynn's dad abandoned him and his mother when he was young. Up until then Flynn thought his dad to be a stand up guy. He had an art gallery and Flynn learned a lot from him. This is back story.
Present day. The person that helped Flynn get over his loss and the father of the love of his life calls to tell him he needs his help.
Before he can talk to him the man is murdered.
Flynn gets thrust back into the art world as lead on the case with the FBI.
Little does he know who else is involved and how much he will fall for his friend's step daughter.
Escaping danger to solve the case makes this an easy page turner.

[Rondi Potts]

Sophomoric Writing

This is a very amatuerish book. The author clearly has no knowledge of FBI protocols or accountability. The actual prose is choppy and juvenile and the same thoughts are repeated over and over (her mother's mental instability, his father's abandonment). And conversations like this:

'"I try to be someone my friends can count on." "So do I." He glanced over at her. "You can count on me, too, Callie." "Does that mean we're friends?" she asked lightly. "I don't know. Do you kiss all your friends the way you kissed me?" "Do you?" "I asked you first." "We don't need to talk about kissing," she declared. "You're right. I'd rather do it than talk about it." "Just drive, Flynn," she ordered, as his sexy smile made her stomach flutter.' OMG.

The main characters have the romantic maturity of high-schoolers. I expected better from the over-inflated reviews.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book six in the FBI Off the Grid books and it involved the good and the bad of the art world. Special Agent Flynn MacKenzie knew quite a bit about the art world and when his friend Arthur contacted him asking him for his help, he made special time for him but he was too late. Before Flynn had a chance to find out what the judge needed, he was murdered right before a large group of art patrons. Not only did he have a murder to solve but one of his suspects was the mother of a beautiful lady that had gotten his attention early in the evening. Now he wanted to prove her mother innocent and to get to know her better. Great book

[Desiree McMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up all night!

I read a few reviews before I started this book. In the begining I was a little irritated with all the names being thrown at me setting up the players of the book. It was a bit overwhelming but it did slow down. Then I was thinking about the review about the girl tagging along with the FBI agent, I'm glad I had that tidbit of info or else my brain would have been stuck on that too. But the book moved fast, twists and turns, which I love, and the ending was great. I will read more of Barbara Freethy books!

[Glenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was so boring at times. It was constantly talking of his father and her mother. I understand that Callie's mother had problems, but it shouldn't have been a constant. The suspense was good and I didn't figure out who the serial killer was. It wasn't a lot of information on the suspects because the time was spent on Callie and Flynn's parents.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not expected

Art crime, serial killers, cold cases and a romance. The story is full of crimes and case solving, but also world building that shows a crazy art scene and how connected everyone is. The romance is expected, but well developed. The rest of the team is present and I can’t wait to read more of their stories!

[Terra Boustead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

Good story and characters, sadness in the death of a old friend and mentor leds to a fast pace hunt for a killer before it happens again. Finding the killer and finding the love of your life before you lose them both is hard to navigate. Thank goodness you have a great team of agents to help.

[Sharon Rudolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book

This series has been amazing! I have loved every book in this series! The characters are so real and the storylines are wonderful! I can't wait to read the next book!

[Carolee Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-paced and suspenseful. Really good storyline well-developed characters. Nice visiting with some of the old crew from Quantico. Nice light hand on the romance aspects of the relationship between Flynn and Callie.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner

I really enjoy this series, and I'm starting to feel like a broken record going on about how great they are. If you haven't started reading this series yet, you really should put it on your "to read" list.