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Zodiac Tactical #3
Code Name: Libra
My code name is Libra. The stars say I’m charismatic, intelligent, charming.
The one with the easy smile.
Zodiac Tactical has been the biggest part of my life for the past three years. We guard, protect, rescue...eliminate the threat when nobody else can. And I’ve always been at the front lines—first to help in whatever way was needed.
Until I took a bullet to the chest.
Now everybody’s worried about me. So I’m sent on what’s supposed to be an easy mission—gathering intel about some potential bad guys while on a tropical island for a wedding. Lay low, blend in, catch a little tan while getting the job done. Can’t be too hard.
Until I defend the bride’s adorable sister against some cruel cattiness and the next thing I know I’m mentioning I’m her fiancé.
Surprise.
When the mission takes a turn for the much more dangerous, and my fiancée finds herself in the middle of it, I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. My wounds may have knocked me down, but a Navy SEAL, even former one with a couple extra bullet holes, always gets back up.
My code name is Libra. Don’t let the easy smile fool you.
The one with the easy smile.
Zodiac Tactical has been the biggest part of my life for the past three years. We guard, protect, rescue...eliminate the threat when nobody else can. And I’ve always been at the front lines—first to help in whatever way was needed.
Until I took a bullet to the chest.
Now everybody’s worried about me. So I’m sent on what’s supposed to be an easy mission—gathering intel about some potential bad guys while on a tropical island for a wedding. Lay low, blend in, catch a little tan while getting the job done. Can’t be too hard.
Until I defend the bride’s adorable sister against some cruel cattiness and the next thing I know I’m mentioning I’m her fiancé.
Surprise.
When the mission takes a turn for the much more dangerous, and my fiancée finds herself in the middle of it, I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. My wounds may have knocked me down, but a Navy SEAL, even former one with a couple extra bullet holes, always gets back up.
My code name is Libra. Don’t let the easy smile fool you.
531 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2022
1258 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Janie Crouch
235 books2,020 followersUSA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
May 18, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "LIBRA" Another fabulous read by Janie Crouch I love this series you'll be hooked to the end full of suspense, angst, mystery, intrigue, heartbreak, steamy scenes, danger, secrets, lies, rivals, betrayal, twists that make for a very addicting story.
Landon Black was part of Zodiac Tactical for past 3 yrs. he took a bullet to the chest by Ian's fiance Wavy frustrated he wanted to be back at work he gets his chance called to Ian DeRose's office his boss Tristan code name Pisces needed him to go undercover on an Island a wedding for Oliver Thortons daughter Christiana.
Bethany Thornton wasn't close to her family since she started her bakery business Slice of Heaven Christians hired her to make the the desserts for her wedding without her mother Angelique knowing, Landon Black poses as a carpenter to make cake stands his way in to the wedding.
This wedding is not where Bethany belongs these are wealthy rich snotty people done of them most of them her family especially her cousin Mina who's out to make her fail jealous of Bethany she's a Viper cruel, sneaky, vengeful makes Bethany miserable always causing trouble.
Landon Black is there undercover to take down Vincent Frey Cartel connected to Mosaic & Joaquin Martinez who's worse than Frey their into human trafficking need to get intel to take them out.
I definitely recommend to get this heartfelt intense drama romance follow Bethany & Landon's journey to get a HEA.
I m so looking forward to next book in this series "Pisces" code name for Tristan his story is next so can't wait up read, Libra was so well worth the read it definitely won't disappoint loved the ending with alot of great characters. AWESOME READ!!!!!
Landon Black was part of Zodiac Tactical for past 3 yrs. he took a bullet to the chest by Ian's fiance Wavy frustrated he wanted to be back at work he gets his chance called to Ian DeRose's office his boss Tristan code name Pisces needed him to go undercover on an Island a wedding for Oliver Thortons daughter Christiana.
Bethany Thornton wasn't close to her family since she started her bakery business Slice of Heaven Christians hired her to make the the desserts for her wedding without her mother Angelique knowing, Landon Black poses as a carpenter to make cake stands his way in to the wedding.
This wedding is not where Bethany belongs these are wealthy rich snotty people done of them most of them her family especially her cousin Mina who's out to make her fail jealous of Bethany she's a Viper cruel, sneaky, vengeful makes Bethany miserable always causing trouble.
Landon Black is there undercover to take down Vincent Frey Cartel connected to Mosaic & Joaquin Martinez who's worse than Frey their into human trafficking need to get intel to take them out.
I definitely recommend to get this heartfelt intense drama romance follow Bethany & Landon's journey to get a HEA.
I m so looking forward to next book in this series "Pisces" code name for Tristan his story is next so can't wait up read, Libra was so well worth the read it definitely won't disappoint loved the ending with alot of great characters. AWESOME READ!!!!!
May 15, 2022
Another stellar entry in the Zodiac Tactical constellation. I really must learn to start these books early in the day, because once again I started reading after 9 pm and couldn't stop until I finished the whole thing at 4 am. Like the others, it is told from dual first-person perspectives - Landon and Bethany. It can be read as a stand-alone, but the experience is richer if you read them in order.
This book begins six months after Landon nearly died from a point-blank shot to the chest (Code Name: Virgo). He's been on desk duty ever since getting out of the hospital, and he is champing at the bit to get back in the field. Fortunately, a request comes in for an intelligence-gathering mission at a wedding on an island resort. He has the skills to go undercover as the baker's assistant for the bride's sister. It should be an easy assignment.
Bethany is the black sheep in her wealthy family. Rather than live off daddy's money, she started her bakery and works for a living. She is petite and curvy and frequently catches grief from her mother because of it. Bethany is also aware that her father's business practices aren't always ethical and maintains her distance because of it. But when her sister calls and begs her to provide the wedding week treats, she can't say no. It will be a chance to showcase her bakery and drum up some needed business. She never expected her trusted handyman cake-stand builder to bail on her and send a stranger to take his place.
I loved the first meeting between Landon and Bethany. He is known for his handsome face and charming ways, and he lays it on pretty thick when he meets her. Bethany is wary, but his easygoing way gets past her defenses, while his skills as a carpenter earn him a place on her team. The sparks between them are evident, but Landon is mission-focused, and Bethany isn't interested in a fling. Landon finds himself unexpectedly protective of Bethany when he sees how she is treated and cuts off some catty remarks when he claims to be her fiancé. It was unplanned, but being her fiancé opened some unexpected opportunities for his undercover work.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Bethany and Landon develop. Between being dumped by her previous boyfriend and the negative attitudes of the people around her, Bethany's self-esteem is pretty low. She has difficulty believing that Landon a) likes her for herself and b) is honestly attracted to her. Landon has difficulty keeping his eyes and hands off her, but his mission must come first. He feels guilty about deceiving her and does his best to maintain control of his actions until his task is completed. There are some terrific scenes of their time together, both working and when Landon coaxes her into relaxing. When they finally give in to their attraction, their chemistry is explosive. But an unexpected problem with his mission plays havoc with their developing relationship, and Landon fears she'll never trust him again. A couple of twists bring them back together in some heart-pounding circumstances, and honest communication solidifies their relationship.
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. The most important was Landon's mission to acquire information on two human traffickers. Landon is on his own except for some minimal backup from fellow ZT Tristan. I liked their scenes together, which were intense with risk. Most of the time, Landon must depend on quick wits and charm to create his opportunities. He made me laugh with his Dodgers hat ploy. His scenes with his quarry's security guards were nail biters. I was on the edge of my seat as Landon's last chance came down to the wire. I loved how Bethany saved the day. The tension wasn't over, though, as Bethany became the target of a vengeful man. I loved seeing Landon call on his SEAL abilities and go from charming to deadly in the blink of an eye. While Landon's mission was successfully completed, some lingering issues will carry on into the next book.
Bethany's sister went against her mother's wishes when she insisted Bethany be given the wedding week pastry job. I loved her confidence in Bethany and her support of Bethany's dream. I wanted to shake their mother for her confidence-busting comments. It was disheartening to see that some people believed Bethany would mess up or purposely do something to ruin the wedding. My heart broke for her when her nightmares became real the night before the wedding. I loved Landon's support and how he helped get her past the shock and into recovery mode. The culprit did not surprise me, nor did their idiotic actions that reveal the truth. The unexpected outpouring of love and help she got was heartwarming and encouraging for the future.
The epilogue was fantastic. I loved catching up with Ian and Wavy, Sarge and Bronwyn, and seeing the progression of Landon and Bethany's relationship. I liked the lead-in to the next book and can't wait to see Tristan again.
This book begins six months after Landon nearly died from a point-blank shot to the chest (Code Name: Virgo). He's been on desk duty ever since getting out of the hospital, and he is champing at the bit to get back in the field. Fortunately, a request comes in for an intelligence-gathering mission at a wedding on an island resort. He has the skills to go undercover as the baker's assistant for the bride's sister. It should be an easy assignment.
Bethany is the black sheep in her wealthy family. Rather than live off daddy's money, she started her bakery and works for a living. She is petite and curvy and frequently catches grief from her mother because of it. Bethany is also aware that her father's business practices aren't always ethical and maintains her distance because of it. But when her sister calls and begs her to provide the wedding week treats, she can't say no. It will be a chance to showcase her bakery and drum up some needed business. She never expected her trusted handyman cake-stand builder to bail on her and send a stranger to take his place.
I loved the first meeting between Landon and Bethany. He is known for his handsome face and charming ways, and he lays it on pretty thick when he meets her. Bethany is wary, but his easygoing way gets past her defenses, while his skills as a carpenter earn him a place on her team. The sparks between them are evident, but Landon is mission-focused, and Bethany isn't interested in a fling. Landon finds himself unexpectedly protective of Bethany when he sees how she is treated and cuts off some catty remarks when he claims to be her fiancé. It was unplanned, but being her fiancé opened some unexpected opportunities for his undercover work.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Bethany and Landon develop. Between being dumped by her previous boyfriend and the negative attitudes of the people around her, Bethany's self-esteem is pretty low. She has difficulty believing that Landon a) likes her for herself and b) is honestly attracted to her. Landon has difficulty keeping his eyes and hands off her, but his mission must come first. He feels guilty about deceiving her and does his best to maintain control of his actions until his task is completed. There are some terrific scenes of their time together, both working and when Landon coaxes her into relaxing. When they finally give in to their attraction, their chemistry is explosive. But an unexpected problem with his mission plays havoc with their developing relationship, and Landon fears she'll never trust him again. A couple of twists bring them back together in some heart-pounding circumstances, and honest communication solidifies their relationship.
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. The most important was Landon's mission to acquire information on two human traffickers. Landon is on his own except for some minimal backup from fellow ZT Tristan. I liked their scenes together, which were intense with risk. Most of the time, Landon must depend on quick wits and charm to create his opportunities. He made me laugh with his Dodgers hat ploy. His scenes with his quarry's security guards were nail biters. I was on the edge of my seat as Landon's last chance came down to the wire. I loved how Bethany saved the day. The tension wasn't over, though, as Bethany became the target of a vengeful man. I loved seeing Landon call on his SEAL abilities and go from charming to deadly in the blink of an eye. While Landon's mission was successfully completed, some lingering issues will carry on into the next book.
Bethany's sister went against her mother's wishes when she insisted Bethany be given the wedding week pastry job. I loved her confidence in Bethany and her support of Bethany's dream. I wanted to shake their mother for her confidence-busting comments. It was disheartening to see that some people believed Bethany would mess up or purposely do something to ruin the wedding. My heart broke for her when her nightmares became real the night before the wedding. I loved Landon's support and how he helped get her past the shock and into recovery mode. The culprit did not surprise me, nor did their idiotic actions that reveal the truth. The unexpected outpouring of love and help she got was heartwarming and encouraging for the future.
The epilogue was fantastic. I loved catching up with Ian and Wavy, Sarge and Bronwyn, and seeing the progression of Landon and Bethany's relationship. I liked the lead-in to the next book and can't wait to see Tristan again.
May 18, 2022
Code Name Libra continues the Zodiac Tactical series, which I am really enjoying! I love that this one includes a fake relationship trope as well as the danger. The chemistry was great as well, and I feel like that piece has been missing in some of my recent reads. Landon is a great hero and Bethany is a perfect heroine. This book just worked for me in every way.
If you like danger with your romance, this series is great and Code Name Libra really continues that. This book brings in the family drama dynamic and our heroine has to deal with an unsupportive mother and a witch of a cousin. But, Landon sweeps in and saves her in perfect ways. The story is a bit of a slow burn, which I typically don't enjoy. This story just WORKS. Honestly, the whole series has been a delight and I cannot recommend it enough!
POV: 3rd
Tears: a few
Trope: fake relationship
Triggers: n/a
Series/Standalone: standalone within an interconnected series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Authors like Susan Stoker, Riley Edwards, Elle James...then you will probably like Code Name Libra!
Code Name Libra
See full review on The Book Disciple
May 17, 2022
Zodiac Tactical is back and this time in Landon's story. I've been super excited to read this book with how he got hurt in book 1.
I've got to say I’m not sure what I expected but this book delivered non the less. I think what I loved the most about it is that he alone, well with a little help from Bethany made the danger go away. Don't get me wrong I love the whole Zodiac Tactical team but I just loved the way he was sent into dangerous waters without much back up. The way he handled her family and stood up for her made my heart sing. She deserved so much more from her family and I was so glad as the story progressed It was shown that they are not bad people.
Once again, I started this book with a glass of wine and before I knew what was happening, I'd read the whole thing in the wee hours of the night. Janie Crouch really made me fall in love with romantic suspense and I can't wait to see the next Zimmerman brother (first one was in Redwood) fall in love.
I've got to say I’m not sure what I expected but this book delivered non the less. I think what I loved the most about it is that he alone, well with a little help from Bethany made the danger go away. Don't get me wrong I love the whole Zodiac Tactical team but I just loved the way he was sent into dangerous waters without much back up. The way he handled her family and stood up for her made my heart sing. She deserved so much more from her family and I was so glad as the story progressed It was shown that they are not bad people.
Once again, I started this book with a glass of wine and before I knew what was happening, I'd read the whole thing in the wee hours of the night. Janie Crouch really made me fall in love with romantic suspense and I can't wait to see the next Zimmerman brother (first one was in Redwood) fall in love.
May 17, 2022
My favorite in the series so far.
Landon Black has been sidelined for way to long. He’s ready to get back into the field and this assignment is right up his alley.
Flashing ’em the famous Landon Black smile, complete with dimples I knew how to use to my advantage.
Bethany Thornton is trying to build up her business without the help of her rich family. Her sister has hired her to do all the deserts fir her week long wedding celebration.
He danced with me every dance for the rest of the evening, keeping me in his arms like he couldn’t stand for me not to be there.
Drama and a sexy hunk to the rescue. Landon and Bethany are sweet together in this slow burn love story with some undercover work on the side.
“I like this smile. Your megawatt grin is a sight to behold, but this one is…different.” He brought my fingers to his lips. “That’s because this one is real. And just for you.”
Landon Black has been sidelined for way to long. He’s ready to get back into the field and this assignment is right up his alley.
Flashing ’em the famous Landon Black smile, complete with dimples I knew how to use to my advantage.
Bethany Thornton is trying to build up her business without the help of her rich family. Her sister has hired her to do all the deserts fir her week long wedding celebration.
He danced with me every dance for the rest of the evening, keeping me in his arms like he couldn’t stand for me not to be there.
Drama and a sexy hunk to the rescue. Landon and Bethany are sweet together in this slow burn love story with some undercover work on the side.
“I like this smile. Your megawatt grin is a sight to behold, but this one is…different.” He brought my fingers to his lips. “That’s because this one is real. And just for you.”
August 19, 2022
Landon & Bethany's story has been my favorite thus far in the Zodiac Tactical series. I still struggle with the first person narrative--just not my cup of tea. But I loved these two characters, especially Bethany. Yes, Landon Black is a hottie on a mission, struggling with his conscience at using Bethany to get closer to his targets, and wanting to prove he's still got the goods to get the job done after getting shot. But Bethany feels like a real woman. Despite her privileged background, she's not afraid of hard work, and she's always finds a kind way to treat people. She deserves her HEA, and I'm glad Landon was smart enough to let it happen.
June 28, 2023
Polvere d'arte - per RFS
.
Quando prendi una pallottola in pieno petto a pochi centimetri dal cuore è terribile ma ancora di più quando tutti ti trattano come se fossi di porcellana, dimenticandosi che sei stato un seal e hai fatto operazioni pericolose per metà della tua vita e una pallottola è solo una cicatrice nel petto. Per di più non ti mandano in servizio attivo ma ti ritrovi a sistemare scartoffie.
Questo è il caso di Landon Black, un uomo intelligente, col sorriso e la battuta pronta. Uno tutto d’un pezzo e bello da far paura, che solo sorridendo con le sue fossette è capace di farti venire le farfalle nello stomaco. Finalmente dopo mesi, grazie a Callum, riesce a tornare in servizio attivo sotto copertura per provare a smascherare dei trafficanti, di cosa? Beh, non vi posso mica dire tutto! L’unico inconveniente che non aveva previsto è che si sarebbe ritrovato a lavorare a stretto contatto con una donna che riesce a non farlo ragionare lucidamente.
Il suo nome è Bethany, occhi verdi e rotondetta. È la figlia di un uomo benestante, ma si è distaccata dalla sua famiglia perché ha deciso di lavorare e di inseguire il suo sogno di pasticcera. I rapporti con i suoi non sono per nulla idilliaci. Grazie alla sorella Christiana, che la ingaggia per fare i dolci al suo matrimonio che si terrà su un isola, forse le cose potrebbero cambiare ma tutto dovrà essere perfetto! Invece fin da subito i preparativi cominciano ad andare a rotoli! Il falegname che doveva dargli una mano per i supporti delle torte la bidona e si ritrova con un Landon, falegname attraente, goloso di dolci, dal sorriso che scioglie e che sa sempre cosa dire al momento giusto.
Quando arrivano all’isola per festeggiare il matrimonio si verranno a creare delle situazioni che porteranno Landon a fingersi il fidanzato di Bethany. Sarà protettivo con questa donna che piano piano gli sta rubando il cuore, per la sua tenacia, perseveranza e che, nonostante non venga trattata bene dai suoi stessi parenti, è sempre dolce e mai cattiva.
Il nostro protagonista, non vorrebbe coinvolgersi così tanto, dato che è sotto copertura e le sta mentendo, ma quando sta con lei si ritrova a fare cose che pensando lucidamente non avrebbe mai fatto. Lei d’altro canto è convinta che lui stia solo fingendo per aiutarla a non sentirsi in imbarazzo con la sua famiglia e in fin dei conti pensa che uno come Landon non potrebbe mai innamorarsi realmente di una ragazza rotonda come lei, dedita soltanto alla sua attività.
Cercano tutti e due di non superare i propri confini ma l’attrazione è palpabile. Fra preparazioni di pasticceria, bagni in piscina e baci appassionati conditi da scalate di montagne, tubi di aerazione, rapimenti e dolcetti gettati addosso al boss di turno, nascerà un amore che potrà, o non potrà, sopravvivere a bugie e bassa autostima? Di certo passeranno dei bei momenti di passione che nemmeno tutta l’acqua del Pacifico riuscirebbe a raffreddare. Ma basterà?
Il romanzo è scritto in doppio punto di vista alternato e risulta scorrevole e passionale. La definirei una dolce storia d’amore condita d’ azione e per niente noiosa. Mi sono piaciuti entrambi i protagonisti: lei gentile, dal carattere forte che non si piega davanti alle malelingue e alle avversità e vuole farcela da sola senza l’aiuto della sua ricca famiglia nonostante una leggera insicurezza. Lui, un uomo quasi d’altri tempi, tenero e sensibile, molto, forse anche troppo, razionale, ma considerando il tipo di lavoro che fa ci sta tutto.
Unica pecca? Gli errori di battitura che penso derivino da distrazioni. Per il resto buona lettura!
.
Quando prendi una pallottola in pieno petto a pochi centimetri dal cuore è terribile ma ancora di più quando tutti ti trattano come se fossi di porcellana, dimenticandosi che sei stato un seal e hai fatto operazioni pericolose per metà della tua vita e una pallottola è solo una cicatrice nel petto. Per di più non ti mandano in servizio attivo ma ti ritrovi a sistemare scartoffie.
Questo è il caso di Landon Black, un uomo intelligente, col sorriso e la battuta pronta. Uno tutto d’un pezzo e bello da far paura, che solo sorridendo con le sue fossette è capace di farti venire le farfalle nello stomaco. Finalmente dopo mesi, grazie a Callum, riesce a tornare in servizio attivo sotto copertura per provare a smascherare dei trafficanti, di cosa? Beh, non vi posso mica dire tutto! L’unico inconveniente che non aveva previsto è che si sarebbe ritrovato a lavorare a stretto contatto con una donna che riesce a non farlo ragionare lucidamente.
Il suo nome è Bethany, occhi verdi e rotondetta. È la figlia di un uomo benestante, ma si è distaccata dalla sua famiglia perché ha deciso di lavorare e di inseguire il suo sogno di pasticcera. I rapporti con i suoi non sono per nulla idilliaci. Grazie alla sorella Christiana, che la ingaggia per fare i dolci al suo matrimonio che si terrà su un isola, forse le cose potrebbero cambiare ma tutto dovrà essere perfetto! Invece fin da subito i preparativi cominciano ad andare a rotoli! Il falegname che doveva dargli una mano per i supporti delle torte la bidona e si ritrova con un Landon, falegname attraente, goloso di dolci, dal sorriso che scioglie e che sa sempre cosa dire al momento giusto.
Quando arrivano all’isola per festeggiare il matrimonio si verranno a creare delle situazioni che porteranno Landon a fingersi il fidanzato di Bethany. Sarà protettivo con questa donna che piano piano gli sta rubando il cuore, per la sua tenacia, perseveranza e che, nonostante non venga trattata bene dai suoi stessi parenti, è sempre dolce e mai cattiva.
Il nostro protagonista, non vorrebbe coinvolgersi così tanto, dato che è sotto copertura e le sta mentendo, ma quando sta con lei si ritrova a fare cose che pensando lucidamente non avrebbe mai fatto. Lei d’altro canto è convinta che lui stia solo fingendo per aiutarla a non sentirsi in imbarazzo con la sua famiglia e in fin dei conti pensa che uno come Landon non potrebbe mai innamorarsi realmente di una ragazza rotonda come lei, dedita soltanto alla sua attività.
Cercano tutti e due di non superare i propri confini ma l’attrazione è palpabile. Fra preparazioni di pasticceria, bagni in piscina e baci appassionati conditi da scalate di montagne, tubi di aerazione, rapimenti e dolcetti gettati addosso al boss di turno, nascerà un amore che potrà, o non potrà, sopravvivere a bugie e bassa autostima? Di certo passeranno dei bei momenti di passione che nemmeno tutta l’acqua del Pacifico riuscirebbe a raffreddare. Ma basterà?
Il romanzo è scritto in doppio punto di vista alternato e risulta scorrevole e passionale. La definirei una dolce storia d’amore condita d’ azione e per niente noiosa. Mi sono piaciuti entrambi i protagonisti: lei gentile, dal carattere forte che non si piega davanti alle malelingue e alle avversità e vuole farcela da sola senza l’aiuto della sua ricca famiglia nonostante una leggera insicurezza. Lui, un uomo quasi d’altri tempi, tenero e sensibile, molto, forse anche troppo, razionale, ma considerando il tipo di lavoro che fa ci sta tutto.
Unica pecca? Gli errori di battitura che penso derivino da distrazioni. Per il resto buona lettura!
May 15, 2022
Steam, Suspense, heartbreak and some laughter. I love the laughter filled in between tense scenes and within the Zodiac Tactical Family. Libra, Landon Black is going stir crazy with everyone still walking on eggshells and worried about him after being shot point blank in the chest by his bosses fiance Wavy. This can be read as stand a lone but I highly recommend reading book 1. When a task finally comes his way it sounds like a pity task, but when he realizes he is the correct person for the job because of his talent, hes on board. Then he meets Bethany - the baker, his in to the island, and oh my, Landon has a sweet tooth and Bethany knocks it out of the park with her cooking. I swear I gained pounds just reading this luscious descriptions. There is suspense, there are some real jerks and some snotty women. There is family, tensions, and big time criminals. This one was character driven, and I really like that even with the verbal putdowns she grew up with, she stands up and speaks up even with self doubt beating at her. When the truth of Landons being there comes out, she hurts, she regroups and she is one class act. Landon had no intention of everything playing out the way it did, but things happen. Landon, please feel free to come help me with my self doubts. Thank you for the arc! I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions.
September 27, 2024
4.5 stars
I loved getting Landon's story! I think Bethany is absolutely adorable, and I love getting to see other characters show up. The suspense was great, and Bethany and Landon are so cute.
I loved getting Landon's story! I think Bethany is absolutely adorable, and I love getting to see other characters show up. The suspense was great, and Bethany and Landon are so cute.
May 13, 2022
Code Name: Libra by Janie Crouch
Zodiac Tactical #3
Sweet undercover mission for Landon Black has him savoring baked goods as well as the baker. Little did Bethany Thornton know that the man sent to help build elaborate cake stands would end up more than an expert carpenter but also a baker’s dream…in more ways than one.
What I liked:
* Bethany: excellent baker, businesswoman, from a wealthy family, wants to provide stellar sweets for her sister’s wedding, overworked, in need of a vacation and a release…
* Landon: retired Navy SEAL, works for Zodiac Tactical, eager to get back to work after being shot in the chest, gets the job done even when smitten by Bethany
* The way Bethan’s family began to see her as the story progressed
* The island location
* The element(s) of suspense provided by various people with evil intentions
* Thinking about the taste of the various cakes mentioned
* The way some pulled together to overcome adversity
* The growth in the relationship between Bethany and Landon
* The way Landon and Bethany communicated to overcome problems
* The way I warmed to Bethan’s family – wasn’t sure I would
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like: the mean girl and the bad guys…easy to dislike them!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Zodiac Tactical #3
Sweet undercover mission for Landon Black has him savoring baked goods as well as the baker. Little did Bethany Thornton know that the man sent to help build elaborate cake stands would end up more than an expert carpenter but also a baker’s dream…in more ways than one.
What I liked:
* Bethany: excellent baker, businesswoman, from a wealthy family, wants to provide stellar sweets for her sister’s wedding, overworked, in need of a vacation and a release…
* Landon: retired Navy SEAL, works for Zodiac Tactical, eager to get back to work after being shot in the chest, gets the job done even when smitten by Bethany
* The way Bethan’s family began to see her as the story progressed
* The island location
* The element(s) of suspense provided by various people with evil intentions
* Thinking about the taste of the various cakes mentioned
* The way some pulled together to overcome adversity
* The growth in the relationship between Bethany and Landon
* The way Landon and Bethany communicated to overcome problems
* The way I warmed to Bethan’s family – wasn’t sure I would
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like: the mean girl and the bad guys…easy to dislike them!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
May 19, 2022
The most entertaining in the series so far but i wouldn’t say it’s the best.
May 11, 2022
4.25 stars--CODE NAME: LIBRA is the third instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult ZODIAC TACTICAL erotic, romantic suspense series-a spin off from the author’s LINEAR TACTICAL series. This is former US Navy SEAL Landon Black, and bakery owner/chef Bethany Thornton’s story line. CODE NAME: LIBRA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Landon and Bethany) CODE NAME: LIBRA follows six months after the near-fatal shooting of our story line hero. Landon Black is desperate to get back out in the field. Working the desk for six months was driving him insane but as luck would have it, the team at Linear Tactical needed Landon to work undercover at a wedding, at an island resort, undercover as a baker’s assistant for the sister of the bride. Enter Bethany Thornton, and the woman with whom Landon will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Bethany and Landon, as Landon must remain undercover in the hopes of locating the leader of a human trafficking ring.
Bethany Thornton hasn’t been close to her family for a very long time. As the black sheep, she has been ostracized for what she does, and how she looks but a call from her sister to bake the wedding week treats means a chance to place her bakery in the spotlight but Bethany never expected to be working side by side with an unknown, a Landon Black, who stirs something deep within our story line heroine. Everything was going according to plan but Landon found himself falling for the sister of the bride. Landon was on assignment, and a relationship with Bethany might compromise his position, a position that quickly turned into a fake-engagement and relationship with our story line heroine.
The relationship between Bethany and Landon begins as an job when Landon is assigned to work undercover to track down a suspected ring of human traffickers but as the black sheep of the Thornton family, Bethany is often the target of ridicule and disdain, and Landon refuses to allow any personal attacks against our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including former US Navy SEAL and CEO of Zodiac Tactical Ian ‘Aries’ DeRose; fellow Zodiac Tactical member Tristan Zimmerman; Bethany’s sister Christiana and her fiance Simon, their parents Oliver and Angelique Thornton, as well as several security, extended family, and island residents. The requisite evil has many faces. Tristan’s story line is next.
CODE NAME: LIBRA is a story of secrets and lies, family and friendships, trust and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is captivating and consuming; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are energetic, colorful and appealing.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual first person perspectives (Landon and Bethany) CODE NAME: LIBRA follows six months after the near-fatal shooting of our story line hero. Landon Black is desperate to get back out in the field. Working the desk for six months was driving him insane but as luck would have it, the team at Linear Tactical needed Landon to work undercover at a wedding, at an island resort, undercover as a baker’s assistant for the sister of the bride. Enter Bethany Thornton, and the woman with whom Landon will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Bethany and Landon, as Landon must remain undercover in the hopes of locating the leader of a human trafficking ring.
Bethany Thornton hasn’t been close to her family for a very long time. As the black sheep, she has been ostracized for what she does, and how she looks but a call from her sister to bake the wedding week treats means a chance to place her bakery in the spotlight but Bethany never expected to be working side by side with an unknown, a Landon Black, who stirs something deep within our story line heroine. Everything was going according to plan but Landon found himself falling for the sister of the bride. Landon was on assignment, and a relationship with Bethany might compromise his position, a position that quickly turned into a fake-engagement and relationship with our story line heroine.
The relationship between Bethany and Landon begins as an job when Landon is assigned to work undercover to track down a suspected ring of human traffickers but as the black sheep of the Thornton family, Bethany is often the target of ridicule and disdain, and Landon refuses to allow any personal attacks against our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including former US Navy SEAL and CEO of Zodiac Tactical Ian ‘Aries’ DeRose; fellow Zodiac Tactical member Tristan Zimmerman; Bethany’s sister Christiana and her fiance Simon, their parents Oliver and Angelique Thornton, as well as several security, extended family, and island residents. The requisite evil has many faces. Tristan’s story line is next.
CODE NAME: LIBRA is a story of secrets and lies, family and friendships, trust and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is captivating and consuming; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are energetic, colorful and appealing.
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 20, 2022
~ Libra Balances the Scales ~
From the time Landon Black (Libra) was first introduced as the best friend and teammate of Ian DeRose (Aries), I was intrigued and anxious for his book to be released.
Delving into "Code Name: Libra" was such an enjoyable adventure! Landon's innate charm, dazzling good looks, and integrity complimented his pairing with Bethany. His loyalty and devotion in all phases of his work with Zodiac and to Bethany were reflected in every aspect.
Although a romantic suspense offering, it focuses on the characters with more elements in romance. Definitely not as dark as the previous two releases, it still more than satisfies and delivers on all levels. The majority of the mounting suspense, tension, and action is concentrated around Libra's undercover assignment and a secondary mystery surrounding Bethany.
I highly recommend "Code Name: Libra" and this series ~ The Zodiac Tactical team is just as likeable and loyal as Linear Tactical. As with the beloved Linear Tactical series, each Zodiac novel is refreshingly different and always unique!
[An ARC was provided for my honest review.]
From the time Landon Black (Libra) was first introduced as the best friend and teammate of Ian DeRose (Aries), I was intrigued and anxious for his book to be released.
Delving into "Code Name: Libra" was such an enjoyable adventure! Landon's innate charm, dazzling good looks, and integrity complimented his pairing with Bethany. His loyalty and devotion in all phases of his work with Zodiac and to Bethany were reflected in every aspect.
Although a romantic suspense offering, it focuses on the characters with more elements in romance. Definitely not as dark as the previous two releases, it still more than satisfies and delivers on all levels. The majority of the mounting suspense, tension, and action is concentrated around Libra's undercover assignment and a secondary mystery surrounding Bethany.
I highly recommend "Code Name: Libra" and this series ~ The Zodiac Tactical team is just as likeable and loyal as Linear Tactical. As with the beloved Linear Tactical series, each Zodiac novel is refreshingly different and always unique!
[An ARC was provided for my honest review.]
May 17, 2023
Another really good read!
Have to say this was a bit of a different read. Felt far more inter-family issue based than anything else. I did appreciate the various solutions to the issues... all felt very appropriate. This was cake-based more than action-based... mind you, there was fair bit of cake action!
I am liking this series...
Have to say this was a bit of a different read. Felt far more inter-family issue based than anything else. I did appreciate the various solutions to the issues... all felt very appropriate. This was cake-based more than action-based... mind you, there was fair bit of cake action!
I am liking this series...
October 3, 2022
The POV thing drives me crazy
She mixes the 1st person POV with the third person POV and it drives me crazy. Good stories, but pick a POV and stick with it.
She mixes the 1st person POV with the third person POV and it drives me crazy. Good stories, but pick a POV and stick with it.
November 22, 2023
another with POVs changing mid sentence
I like these books. I had hope the author had gotten an editor. But, no such luck again. Please get an editor.
I like these books. I had hope the author had gotten an editor. But, no such luck again. Please get an editor.
May 17, 2022
Landon Black would do anything for his family, even take a bullet to the chest from his best friend Ian’s girl Wavy. That single moment in time dramatically changed something in all of the men from Zodiac Tactical. Landon nor any of the men blamed Wavy because they knew she wasn’t in control of herself at that moment. Now though Landon feels he has something to prove and Ian is so afraid of losing his best friend that he’s cautious about putting him back in the field. Luckily a colleague from the government needed help to get some transmitters on a man they knew to be associated in the past with Mosaic. The moment Landon knew he could help take down more of these dangerous men he was in because Mosaic had already hurt two of the most important women in his life. Bethany Thornton has worked very hard to be her own woman that wants to have a successful business all her own. Her family on the other hand can’t believe she would do something so common as open a bakery. Bethany has put her blood sweat and tears into her career and has done it all by herself, now she has the chance to show her family just how truly amazing her creations are. Bethany is thrilled that her little sister is getting married and hired her to create not only her wedding cake but also all the desserts that would be showcased all week long leading up to the big day. However when her employee who creates her beautiful displays calls out for a family emergency she starts to see her future start to fall apart. Landon quickly becomes Bethany’s knight in shining armor when he replaces her long time employee for the week of the wedding. Landon can’t help but see the beauty from the inside out of Bethany and how different she is from her family. When the wedding events become a competition for the mega rich to show how much better they are from the lowly baker they see Bethany as, Landon will stop at nothing to support her and show them how amazing Bethany and her desserts are. Landon is quickly wanting his mission to be over so he can focus all of his attention solely on Bethany. Bethany can’t believe how Landon keeps rescuing her from the guests and elitists in attendance of her sisters wedding. Everyone is waiting for her to fall apart and ruin this event but none of them seem to see how much stronger she is than what they believe. Will Bethany and Landon survive a week of wedding events with her family who cut her off and refuse to support her. The other question is will Landon complete his mission to help take down the bad guys without breaking Bethany’s heart and trust. This story has all the best aspects that Janie Crouch brings us with her stories action, love, passion, humor, and a roller coaster of emotions that kept me from putting down this book until I finished it.
June 23, 2022
Kind of a disappointment
I had been waiting for Landon’s story, as he was a big character in the previous books. This was unfortunately a let down. The whole story is anticlimactic…especially the ending scene, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
First…a few annoying details:
* Catalina is not a tropical island…it’s barely a subtropical island, by the geographical definition. If you’ve ever been there, you know it’s not common to have a hot day (average July temps are mid 70s), much less a humid one, and it is often downright chilly with the frequent offshore fog. And the beaches are not big. Definitely not tropical.
* $5 would never cover a beer, poolside at a ritzy California seaside resort, much less include a respectable tip.
* “Masses” of curly hair, messy ponytails, and professionally and sanitarily preparing desserts for a society wedding don’t go together, but I guess hairnets don’t fit the trope.
* The expression is curdle your stomach, not curl your stomach.
Anyway…the bigger problem is that the h is Negative Nancy and comically completely driven and controlled by the very people she supposedly detests, judges, and thinks she’s so much better than. And everything she says to Landon is basically said so that he’ll be forced to tell her the opposite: “I know you’re not attracted to me” = “tell me you’re attracted to me.” It’s almost manipulative…like saying, “I look so bad in this dress” to force people to tell you that you look good. She’s just a little too “woe is me” and the sky is falling. She doesn’t handle things gracefully at all…more like a 10 year old in a playground fight. I was just constantly embarrassed for her. She’s basically Eeyore in human female form.
Exhibit A: nothing much has happened between them, they are in a fake relationship and don’t know each other at all…this is her thought: “what could possibly be more important to Landon than being with me when I was so shaken?” Everything is about her and she’s tiresomely melodramatic…and a willing, self-pitying, victim to all her circumstances. She’s supposed to be this independent woman who walked away from money to pursue her dream, but she’s SO NEEDY and such a catastrophizer…it’s almost hilarious, but more cringey than anything.
Back to the last scene…that was icing on top of a crap cake. I won’t spoil it, but was she really crying over that??? Ugh. Talk about something to NOT get weepy over and it just reiterated my thoughts above. Barf. I really, really hope the next books in the series are better. I wanted to get to know Landon, understand his PTSD, and his dynamics with his family history, yet this book focused almost exclusively on the least interesting character: the h.
I had been waiting for Landon’s story, as he was a big character in the previous books. This was unfortunately a let down. The whole story is anticlimactic…especially the ending scene, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
First…a few annoying details:
* Catalina is not a tropical island…it’s barely a subtropical island, by the geographical definition. If you’ve ever been there, you know it’s not common to have a hot day (average July temps are mid 70s), much less a humid one, and it is often downright chilly with the frequent offshore fog. And the beaches are not big. Definitely not tropical.
* $5 would never cover a beer, poolside at a ritzy California seaside resort, much less include a respectable tip.
* “Masses” of curly hair, messy ponytails, and professionally and sanitarily preparing desserts for a society wedding don’t go together, but I guess hairnets don’t fit the trope.
* The expression is curdle your stomach, not curl your stomach.
Anyway…the bigger problem is that the h is Negative Nancy and comically completely driven and controlled by the very people she supposedly detests, judges, and thinks she’s so much better than. And everything she says to Landon is basically said so that he’ll be forced to tell her the opposite: “I know you’re not attracted to me” = “tell me you’re attracted to me.” It’s almost manipulative…like saying, “I look so bad in this dress” to force people to tell you that you look good. She’s just a little too “woe is me” and the sky is falling. She doesn’t handle things gracefully at all…more like a 10 year old in a playground fight. I was just constantly embarrassed for her. She’s basically Eeyore in human female form.
Exhibit A: nothing much has happened between them, they are in a fake relationship and don’t know each other at all…this is her thought: “what could possibly be more important to Landon than being with me when I was so shaken?” Everything is about her and she’s tiresomely melodramatic…and a willing, self-pitying, victim to all her circumstances. She’s supposed to be this independent woman who walked away from money to pursue her dream, but she’s SO NEEDY and such a catastrophizer…it’s almost hilarious, but more cringey than anything.
Back to the last scene…that was icing on top of a crap cake. I won’t spoil it, but was she really crying over that??? Ugh. Talk about something to NOT get weepy over and it just reiterated my thoughts above. Barf. I really, really hope the next books in the series are better. I wanted to get to know Landon, understand his PTSD, and his dynamics with his family history, yet this book focused almost exclusively on the least interesting character: the h.
May 18, 2022
Code Name Libra is the third book in the Zodiac Tactical Rescue Unit series and can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend you to read the first two books in the series, Aries and Virgo, first so you can understand what has happened previously and know who the characters are when reading this book.
Code Name Libra is the fake fiancee romantic suspense story between Landon Black and Bethany Thornton. Landon Black is one of Zodiac Tactical’s core members and a former NAVY SEAL. He has been on desk duty for the past few months as a result in rehabilitating himself after an incident. But when Callum Webb and Ian Derose call for his help, he is ready to jump back into the field and help put away the bad guys. Bethany Thornton is a bakery owner whose store hasn’t made its mark in the industry yet and her family doesn’t approve of her life choices of being independent and building her business on her own. It’s her dream to put herself on the map and be someone that her family can be proud of. Her sister is getting married and has been asked to baked goodies and the wedding cakes for the wedding’s festivities. Seeing that this is her chance to shine, she hopes that everyone (family included) will fall in love with her sweet treats and will generate new business for her shop.
Landon and Bethany’s worlds collide when Landon’s mission has him assisting Bethany for the week. Their relationship starts off a little rocky as both are trying to juggle the different roles they are supposed to play- bakery owner and sister of the bride for Bethany and undercover agent and baker’s assistant for Landon. When Bethany is in need of a rescue to save face in front of her snooty family, Landon steps in like a knight in shiny armor and saves the day… as her fake fiancee. As the book progresses and the ruse continues, the emotions, heated glances, and hormones that are passing between Landon and Bethany cause things to get a little heated in and out of the kitchen if you know what I mean. Wink wink
As this book is part of a series, it’s known that there will be characters crossovers and I love how each book includes the characters from the previous books and/or series. This book is filled with bad guys, suspense, betrayal, sweet and spicy scenes and so much more. I had the hardest time putting this book down!! Can’t wait for book 4 and I love how we got some hints as to who the next book is about-Tristan Zimmerman. Been waiting to see when his book would come out and it’s save to say that I am so excited for his book!!! August can’t get here soon enough!
I highly recommend this book and the whole Zodiac Tactical series. Do yourself a favor and buy this book, you won’t regret it. If you are looking for a series similar to this one, I highly recommend the Linear Tactical series. It’s one of my all time favorite series.
Code Name Libra is the fake fiancee romantic suspense story between Landon Black and Bethany Thornton. Landon Black is one of Zodiac Tactical’s core members and a former NAVY SEAL. He has been on desk duty for the past few months as a result in rehabilitating himself after an incident. But when Callum Webb and Ian Derose call for his help, he is ready to jump back into the field and help put away the bad guys. Bethany Thornton is a bakery owner whose store hasn’t made its mark in the industry yet and her family doesn’t approve of her life choices of being independent and building her business on her own. It’s her dream to put herself on the map and be someone that her family can be proud of. Her sister is getting married and has been asked to baked goodies and the wedding cakes for the wedding’s festivities. Seeing that this is her chance to shine, she hopes that everyone (family included) will fall in love with her sweet treats and will generate new business for her shop.
Landon and Bethany’s worlds collide when Landon’s mission has him assisting Bethany for the week. Their relationship starts off a little rocky as both are trying to juggle the different roles they are supposed to play- bakery owner and sister of the bride for Bethany and undercover agent and baker’s assistant for Landon. When Bethany is in need of a rescue to save face in front of her snooty family, Landon steps in like a knight in shiny armor and saves the day… as her fake fiancee. As the book progresses and the ruse continues, the emotions, heated glances, and hormones that are passing between Landon and Bethany cause things to get a little heated in and out of the kitchen if you know what I mean. Wink wink
As this book is part of a series, it’s known that there will be characters crossovers and I love how each book includes the characters from the previous books and/or series. This book is filled with bad guys, suspense, betrayal, sweet and spicy scenes and so much more. I had the hardest time putting this book down!! Can’t wait for book 4 and I love how we got some hints as to who the next book is about-Tristan Zimmerman. Been waiting to see when his book would come out and it’s save to say that I am so excited for his book!!! August can’t get here soon enough!
I highly recommend this book and the whole Zodiac Tactical series. Do yourself a favor and buy this book, you won’t regret it. If you are looking for a series similar to this one, I highly recommend the Linear Tactical series. It’s one of my all time favorite series.
May 17, 2022
What a wonderful addition to the Zodiac series! You don't need to read the other books to fall in love with this one but I definitely recommend the others because they are all amazing reads.
With regard to Libra, this book and its hero, Landon, are just swoon-worthy! What I think I really loved about this book is that the overall atmosphere here is not as heavy as the other books in the series. Don't get me wrong- I absolutely LOVED all of the Zodiac books. But the previous ones where a little darker or more intense maybe. This book felt a bit lighter but still held my attention from the beginning. As has been the case with every Janie Crouch book I have ever read, I started reading this thinking I would read half one day and finish it the next only to find myself planted in my seat and I read it straight through. I could not put this book down and just had to know what was going to happen.
In this book our hero Landon has recovered from an injury and is sent out on solo mission. He is excited to be able to get out there and show his boss and himself that he is strong and ready to return to work. He is to go undercover at a wedding by posing as help for Bethany, the baker and sister of the bride. The wedding is for a very wealthy family and there will be some well-connected criminals in attendance. Landon fully expects Bethany to be the typical rich girl only to quickly see what a down to earth and beautiful person she is. Both feel the immediate attraction. Bethany struggles with seeing herself as attractive or good enough mixed with wanted to focus on making sure her bakery thrives. Landon struggles to straddle the line between completing his mission and making sure he doesn't use or betray Bethany in the process. Mixed into the pot is that her rich family appear to look down on Bethany for having a "common" job and Landon cannot help but step up and protect her.
I loved Bethany as she was such a joy - feminine and real yet determined. And Landon was amazing as the protective yet respectful hero. Once they got together it was just combustible. I also loved how the ultimate villain and showdown at the end was not what I thought it would be. Love when there is a bit of a twist.
Overall this was a wonderful romantic suspense that I highly recommend. Cannot wait to see what comes next for the Zodiac team.
With regard to Libra, this book and its hero, Landon, are just swoon-worthy! What I think I really loved about this book is that the overall atmosphere here is not as heavy as the other books in the series. Don't get me wrong- I absolutely LOVED all of the Zodiac books. But the previous ones where a little darker or more intense maybe. This book felt a bit lighter but still held my attention from the beginning. As has been the case with every Janie Crouch book I have ever read, I started reading this thinking I would read half one day and finish it the next only to find myself planted in my seat and I read it straight through. I could not put this book down and just had to know what was going to happen.
In this book our hero Landon has recovered from an injury and is sent out on solo mission. He is excited to be able to get out there and show his boss and himself that he is strong and ready to return to work. He is to go undercover at a wedding by posing as help for Bethany, the baker and sister of the bride. The wedding is for a very wealthy family and there will be some well-connected criminals in attendance. Landon fully expects Bethany to be the typical rich girl only to quickly see what a down to earth and beautiful person she is. Both feel the immediate attraction. Bethany struggles with seeing herself as attractive or good enough mixed with wanted to focus on making sure her bakery thrives. Landon struggles to straddle the line between completing his mission and making sure he doesn't use or betray Bethany in the process. Mixed into the pot is that her rich family appear to look down on Bethany for having a "common" job and Landon cannot help but step up and protect her.
I loved Bethany as she was such a joy - feminine and real yet determined. And Landon was amazing as the protective yet respectful hero. Once they got together it was just combustible. I also loved how the ultimate villain and showdown at the end was not what I thought it would be. Love when there is a bit of a twist.
Overall this was a wonderful romantic suspense that I highly recommend. Cannot wait to see what comes next for the Zodiac team.
May 16, 2022
Although this third book in the Zodiac Tactical series can be read as a standalone, you’ll get more insights on how Landon was hurt if you’ve read the first two books. In Code Name: Libra, it is now six months since that nearly fatal shot, and Landon is slowly recovering, but he is getting really antsy about wanting to get out into the field again. He is given a chance when a request comes in from the Omega Sector task force, to go undercover at a tropical wedding in the hope of uncovering a human trafficking ring. His way in was to work for Bethany Thornton, a baker and the black sheep of a wealthy family who may have ties to Mosaic and human trafficking. Bethany does not have the greatest relationship with her family but the bride, who happens to be her sister, hires her behind their mother’s back, to provide the cakes and desserts. This was her chance to network and make connections with the wealthy and influential people who would be attending.
With a little bit of maneuvering, Landon was able to take over as Bethany’s assistant to help build the cake stands for this wedding. For Bethany, not only is this wedding important because it is her sister but also to prove to her family and all the gossipmongers that have the skills and passion to make it without her family’s money. What both were not prepared for was the instant attraction they felt for one another. They both fought it for different reasons, but circumstances made it very difficult to keep things professional.
Landon and Bethany’s story was not as fast-paced or heart pounding as the first two books, but the drama and suspense it did have definitely was enjoyable and kept my interest. I really loved seeing the progression of Landon and Bethany’s relationship. Not only did Landon come to Bethany’s aid when snide remarks were tossed her way, but he also helped show her what an amazing person she truly is. But as Landon’s attraction toward Bethany started increasing, the guilt he felt for lying to her was evident. When all is revealed Bethany is of course hurt, but with a little bit of communication, and then when danger from Landon’s mission starts to heat up, she was able to understand and actually help in this mission.
Another great storyline with twists and turns, and a wonderful happily ever after. Looking forward to the next in the series.
With a little bit of maneuvering, Landon was able to take over as Bethany’s assistant to help build the cake stands for this wedding. For Bethany, not only is this wedding important because it is her sister but also to prove to her family and all the gossipmongers that have the skills and passion to make it without her family’s money. What both were not prepared for was the instant attraction they felt for one another. They both fought it for different reasons, but circumstances made it very difficult to keep things professional.
Landon and Bethany’s story was not as fast-paced or heart pounding as the first two books, but the drama and suspense it did have definitely was enjoyable and kept my interest. I really loved seeing the progression of Landon and Bethany’s relationship. Not only did Landon come to Bethany’s aid when snide remarks were tossed her way, but he also helped show her what an amazing person she truly is. But as Landon’s attraction toward Bethany started increasing, the guilt he felt for lying to her was evident. When all is revealed Bethany is of course hurt, but with a little bit of communication, and then when danger from Landon’s mission starts to heat up, she was able to understand and actually help in this mission.
Another great storyline with twists and turns, and a wonderful happily ever after. Looking forward to the next in the series.
May 17, 2022
Code name: Libra is the third book in the wonderful Zodiac Tactical series from Janie Crouch. It has a slightly different tone from the first two books, not quite so high octane, heart in mouth but no less compelling & absorbing.
Landon Black (Libra) is going stir crazy, desk bound several months after a nearly fatal bullet sidelined him from the action he craves so he jumps at the chance to go undercover at a wedding on an exclusive luxury island for what should be a straightforward operation.
Baker extraordinaire & family black sheep Bethany Thornton has been struggling to build her bakery business without the help of her disapproving wealthy family, she’s also the sister of the bride. Hired by her sister to provide delicious & creative desserts during the wedding Bethany unknowingly becomes part of the undercover operation when she is manoeuvred into hiring Landon to help her.
The spark between the two is instant, Landon sees the true sweet, kind, hardworking wonderful person Bethany is but is torn between completing his assignment & the growing pull of his feelings & Bethany can’t believe that charming, dimpled, sexy Landon would ever be attracted to someone like her. Their back & forth, up & down misunderstanding strewn relationship is the heart of the story surrounded by compelling drama - bad guys & a new player throwing a wrench in the mission plans, secrets, lies & misunderstandings, vicious wedding guests, a fake engagement & creepy bodyguards are all added to the mix. Throw in some sizzling heat between Landon & Bethany & you have the perfect recipe for a gripping & enthralling story of love, family & friendship, faith & acceptance. Tristan Zimmerman is next after featuring in this story & if the name is familiar his brother Gavin (Redwood) is part of the authors equally excellent Linear Tactical series, can’t wait!
I received an arc from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Landon Black (Libra) is going stir crazy, desk bound several months after a nearly fatal bullet sidelined him from the action he craves so he jumps at the chance to go undercover at a wedding on an exclusive luxury island for what should be a straightforward operation.
Baker extraordinaire & family black sheep Bethany Thornton has been struggling to build her bakery business without the help of her disapproving wealthy family, she’s also the sister of the bride. Hired by her sister to provide delicious & creative desserts during the wedding Bethany unknowingly becomes part of the undercover operation when she is manoeuvred into hiring Landon to help her.
The spark between the two is instant, Landon sees the true sweet, kind, hardworking wonderful person Bethany is but is torn between completing his assignment & the growing pull of his feelings & Bethany can’t believe that charming, dimpled, sexy Landon would ever be attracted to someone like her. Their back & forth, up & down misunderstanding strewn relationship is the heart of the story surrounded by compelling drama - bad guys & a new player throwing a wrench in the mission plans, secrets, lies & misunderstandings, vicious wedding guests, a fake engagement & creepy bodyguards are all added to the mix. Throw in some sizzling heat between Landon & Bethany & you have the perfect recipe for a gripping & enthralling story of love, family & friendship, faith & acceptance. Tristan Zimmerman is next after featuring in this story & if the name is familiar his brother Gavin (Redwood) is part of the authors equally excellent Linear Tactical series, can’t wait!
I received an arc from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
May 16, 2022
Landon is frustrated. After being shot in the chest, his recovery has been slower than he would like and the rest of the Zodiac crew are treating him like he's fragile. He finally gets assigned to a mission that requires his particular skillset. It's supposed to be an easy mission on a tropical island, but complications arise almost as soon as he arrives at the island. He will have to push his recovering body maybe a bit further than he's ready for, think on his feet, adapt the plan and overcome a series of unexpected obstacles. Perhaps the biggest curveball thrown at him is the lovely, curvy baker that becomes part of his cover, unbeknownst to her. He'll have a hard time focusing on the mission and keeping himself from pursuing something with the insanely attractive Bethany.
As always, Janie Crouch has created a swoonworthy hero. Landon is determined and honorable. He's dedicated to getting back out into the field and making a difference in the world with his work. Handsome and protective, he's such a good guy. Our heroine, Bethany, is a strong female lead as well. She is making her own way in the world, building a business based on her passion. She is willing to work hard and always remains kind to those around her. Rather than bemoan the obstacles thrown in her way, she just works the problem to find a way to succeed. Such a great character.
The story is told from dual points of view, alternating between Landon and Bethany providing great insight into each of their personalities. The story moves at good pace, and has equal doses of romance and suspense, with little dashes of humor mixed in. I really enjoyed both of these characters. While part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
Four stars for this suspenseful romance.
This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
As always, Janie Crouch has created a swoonworthy hero. Landon is determined and honorable. He's dedicated to getting back out into the field and making a difference in the world with his work. Handsome and protective, he's such a good guy. Our heroine, Bethany, is a strong female lead as well. She is making her own way in the world, building a business based on her passion. She is willing to work hard and always remains kind to those around her. Rather than bemoan the obstacles thrown in her way, she just works the problem to find a way to succeed. Such a great character.
The story is told from dual points of view, alternating between Landon and Bethany providing great insight into each of their personalities. The story moves at good pace, and has equal doses of romance and suspense, with little dashes of humor mixed in. I really enjoyed both of these characters. While part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
Four stars for this suspenseful romance.
This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
May 17, 2022
We all know Landon aka Libra, the fun, charming, calm operative in Zodiac who took a bullet and now after his recovery he is ready to get back into the game instead of sitting behind a desk. His mission is to get on an island that is hosting a wedding where a ruthless criminal will be attending and his in is the sister of the bride, Bethany, who is the dessert caterer for the week long event. Bethany has cut ties with her family after she branches out on her own, not interested in the high society and willing to work for a living. This is her one shot to prove to her family and to herself, she has what it takes, so when her employee has a “family emergency” Landon takes his place to help her out at the wedding. She can’t help but notice Mr September and all his attributes and a week with him, has her flustered especially when he comes to her aid…as her boyfriend and soon after posing as her fiancée. Landon can’t afford any distractions and Bethany is a huge distraction but once the mission is over….his control snaps…but what happens when she learns the truth of who he really is and why he’s there.
Swooning…sighing and swooning some more and not just over Landon, Bethany is just as amazing as he is. These two lit up the pages and the tension between these two…fireworks…until it finally explodes. Once again this author proves why she is an automatic one click with her books. The story flowed beautifully with descriptions that are spot on, the little to no drama between the two (LOVED IT), add in the suspense element with a bit of action, some surprises and the steam…swoon worthy steam….need I say more…automatic one click!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
Swooning…sighing and swooning some more and not just over Landon, Bethany is just as amazing as he is. These two lit up the pages and the tension between these two…fireworks…until it finally explodes. Once again this author proves why she is an automatic one click with her books. The story flowed beautifully with descriptions that are spot on, the little to no drama between the two (LOVED IT), add in the suspense element with a bit of action, some surprises and the steam…swoon worthy steam….need I say more…automatic one click!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
May 20, 2022
Code Name: Libra is the third book in the Zodiac Tactical series, but could be read as a stand alone. After recovering from an injury, Landon is ready to get back into a mission, and now he must infiltrate a glamorous island wedding with the help from Bethany. The bride’s sister and baker extraordinaire, she unknowingly helps Landon while he pretends to be her fiancé, but as the danger circles them both, will they be able to untangle their half truths and fully trust one another?
Oh wow, this book was just fantastic! The previous books in this series seemed to be a little darker and more intense, so this was kind of like the tropical vacation that Landon and Bethany attended - just with extra dashes of secrets and danger and a heavy dollop of passion and connection. Bethany was such a sweet character, full of grit and determination, and as much as she wanted her business to succeed, she also would do anything for those she loved, including putting herself into danger willingly. Landon was a pretty happy individual, but I loved his own drive, the way he owned fighting for what’s right, and the way that he became extra protective of Bethany. I loved them together! I thought they fit well, lifted one another up, and their connection felt like a great blend between romantic and passionate. The danger in this book almost felt subtle, like it was always lurking in the background, from lots of different directions, and I was on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding because of his undercover work and because of the snotty people they were surrounded by. The ending was perfect and really brought things together, and that epilogue just about made me want to swoon! I loved this book, I love this series, and I can’t wait for more!
Oh wow, this book was just fantastic! The previous books in this series seemed to be a little darker and more intense, so this was kind of like the tropical vacation that Landon and Bethany attended - just with extra dashes of secrets and danger and a heavy dollop of passion and connection. Bethany was such a sweet character, full of grit and determination, and as much as she wanted her business to succeed, she also would do anything for those she loved, including putting herself into danger willingly. Landon was a pretty happy individual, but I loved his own drive, the way he owned fighting for what’s right, and the way that he became extra protective of Bethany. I loved them together! I thought they fit well, lifted one another up, and their connection felt like a great blend between romantic and passionate. The danger in this book almost felt subtle, like it was always lurking in the background, from lots of different directions, and I was on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding because of his undercover work and because of the snotty people they were surrounded by. The ending was perfect and really brought things together, and that epilogue just about made me want to swoon! I loved this book, I love this series, and I can’t wait for more!
May 23, 2022
This is another fantastic addition to Janie Crouch’s “Zodiac Tactical;” series.
Landon is a former SEAL who now works for Zodiac Tactical. Since he is still recovering from an injury, the people-in-charge decide to only use him for an easy mission. A federal agent needs Landon to place a transmitter on the phone or computer of a high-level member of the Frey cartel while he is attending an over-the-top wedding celebration. This weeklong wedding takes place on a tropical island and will have lots of security. Therefore, the only way for Landon to gain access to the man is for him to go undercover.
Bethany is a professional baker and the older sister of the bride. She has been estranged from the family since she opened her business. She is considered the black sheep of the family because she is the only one who actually works. She accepts no help from her family, and has not spoken to any of them in years. However, in spite of that, Bethany’s sister hires her to bake all of the cakes and pastries for her wedding. The Zodiac team arrange for Landon to take the place of a member of her team who is unable to attend due to a “family emergency.”
I love Landon! He is charismatic and intelligent. His “easy” smile allows him to get close to everybody and anybody. These qualities allow him to quickly become a friend, a confidant, and an unconditional advocate, to the vulnerable Bethany who feels inferior to her snobbish family. Landon’s respect and devotion to Bethany is so unbelievably amazing that it could even soften Scrooge’s heart.
This romantic suspense an action-packed page-turner! It is filled with lots of action and intrigue that will keep the reader on the edge of her seat from the first chapter until the very last page!
Landon is a former SEAL who now works for Zodiac Tactical. Since he is still recovering from an injury, the people-in-charge decide to only use him for an easy mission. A federal agent needs Landon to place a transmitter on the phone or computer of a high-level member of the Frey cartel while he is attending an over-the-top wedding celebration. This weeklong wedding takes place on a tropical island and will have lots of security. Therefore, the only way for Landon to gain access to the man is for him to go undercover.
Bethany is a professional baker and the older sister of the bride. She has been estranged from the family since she opened her business. She is considered the black sheep of the family because she is the only one who actually works. She accepts no help from her family, and has not spoken to any of them in years. However, in spite of that, Bethany’s sister hires her to bake all of the cakes and pastries for her wedding. The Zodiac team arrange for Landon to take the place of a member of her team who is unable to attend due to a “family emergency.”
I love Landon! He is charismatic and intelligent. His “easy” smile allows him to get close to everybody and anybody. These qualities allow him to quickly become a friend, a confidant, and an unconditional advocate, to the vulnerable Bethany who feels inferior to her snobbish family. Landon’s respect and devotion to Bethany is so unbelievably amazing that it could even soften Scrooge’s heart.
This romantic suspense an action-packed page-turner! It is filled with lots of action and intrigue that will keep the reader on the edge of her seat from the first chapter until the very last page!
April 25, 2023
This is the best book in the Zodiac Tactical series so far! Finally, a book that doesn't deal with mind control or brain washing. This story was a breath of fresh air after the last two.
I loved the island setting. And I liked that the hero's mission wasn't too heavy of the violence or suspense. It allowed more of the romance to shine through.
I loved both Landon and Bethany. They were a great pair. Landon was a pretty regular character in the first two books, so I was excited to finally read a book about him.
Bethany was a brand new character and a bakery owner. I really enjoyed her character progression as well as the progression of her family. She was always able to keep her cool and maintain a kind presence, and when she did lose it once or twice, she was quick to apologize and make things right (if it was her fault). She's also a size 12, which is kind of part of the plot, since all her family seem to think this is a problem. I appreciated that the author pointed out two different times that a size 12 was not fat, but it didn't stop people from criticizing her for not being a size 2 like her sister or mother. Landon, of course, loves her body and worships it accordingly!
There is some suspense, but it's on the lighter side in this book. But don't worry, there's still time for the heroine to get kidnapped in the end and the hero to save her!
There's two sexy scenes and other references to them getting it on. The scenes are medium in length and detailed. There are descriptions of everything happening, so if you're not into that, move along. They're very well written scenes and add to the progression of the couples' relationship.
I hope the last book in the series is as good as this one!
I loved the island setting. And I liked that the hero's mission wasn't too heavy of the violence or suspense. It allowed more of the romance to shine through.
I loved both Landon and Bethany. They were a great pair. Landon was a pretty regular character in the first two books, so I was excited to finally read a book about him.
Bethany was a brand new character and a bakery owner. I really enjoyed her character progression as well as the progression of her family. She was always able to keep her cool and maintain a kind presence, and when she did lose it once or twice, she was quick to apologize and make things right (if it was her fault). She's also a size 12, which is kind of part of the plot, since all her family seem to think this is a problem. I appreciated that the author pointed out two different times that a size 12 was not fat, but it didn't stop people from criticizing her for not being a size 2 like her sister or mother. Landon, of course, loves her body and worships it accordingly!
There is some suspense, but it's on the lighter side in this book. But don't worry, there's still time for the heroine to get kidnapped in the end and the hero to save her!
There's two sexy scenes and other references to them getting it on. The scenes are medium in length and detailed. There are descriptions of everything happening, so if you're not into that, move along. They're very well written scenes and add to the progression of the couples' relationship.
I hope the last book in the series is as good as this one!
May 13, 2022
Riveting third book in this wonderful series, great reading
This is the third book in the series and I have to say that I enjoyed evey moment of this book and I guarantee that like myself you will find that once you begin reading you will not be able to stop until you reach the end and discover the outcome.
Libra had unfortunately been injured when he was hit by a bullet to the chest and since then his team Zodiac Tactical has been treating him with kid gloves and its driving him crazy. So, he has been sent out on to a mission on a tropical island which is supposed to be straight forward.
He was just supposed to be gathering intelligence until he met the beautiful and full of character brides who he felt strangely protective of even going so far as to say he was her Fiancé much to her surprise, but it stopped all the cruel comments and looks from the other women.
Then when suddenly the mission seems to take a curve ball, he has no choice but to act as he has been taught, ignore the pain of his recovering injuries and continue with the mission as best as he is able as a Navy SEAL
This is a fast paced and exciting read and I guarantee that you will be left looking forward to future books by this author.
I do not want to spoil the plot so will say no more about the three of them, I assure you that you will enjoy every single moment of this book.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
This is the third book in the series and I have to say that I enjoyed evey moment of this book and I guarantee that like myself you will find that once you begin reading you will not be able to stop until you reach the end and discover the outcome.
Libra had unfortunately been injured when he was hit by a bullet to the chest and since then his team Zodiac Tactical has been treating him with kid gloves and its driving him crazy. So, he has been sent out on to a mission on a tropical island which is supposed to be straight forward.
He was just supposed to be gathering intelligence until he met the beautiful and full of character brides who he felt strangely protective of even going so far as to say he was her Fiancé much to her surprise, but it stopped all the cruel comments and looks from the other women.
Then when suddenly the mission seems to take a curve ball, he has no choice but to act as he has been taught, ignore the pain of his recovering injuries and continue with the mission as best as he is able as a Navy SEAL
This is a fast paced and exciting read and I guarantee that you will be left looking forward to future books by this author.
I do not want to spoil the plot so will say no more about the three of them, I assure you that you will enjoy every single moment of this book.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
July 27, 2022
Landon has been recovering from being shot and is floundering a little bit. He is second guessing his usefulness as well as his ability to do his job because he has been regulated to desk duty. This. New assignment is for him to infiltrate a high-end destination wedding in which the family of the bride has rented out an island. He is to pose as the assistant to the baker, who happens to be the bride’s sister. What Landon doesn’t expect is the attraction that he feels to Bethany.
Bethany is a woman who has stepped away from the money her family has to make it on her own. With that choice, her parents cut her off. She is putting everything she has into the bakery that she owns and is making all of the desserts for her sister’s wedding to prove that she is capable of doing it on her own.
Landon wars with himself because he feels a connection with Bethany but doesn’t want to do anything because of the mission he is on. He wants truths between them… and has a hard time separating himself from that. Once the truth comes out, Bethany is open and honest with the way in which they deal with it. I was pleasantly surprised and please in the way in which Janie Crouch treated this turn of events. Yes, Landon was keeping things from Bethany, but he explains it in a way that she understands and has no ill will towards him.
I am loving this series, but you are able to read it out of order because while each book has recurring characters, they do not overcrowd the pages and you don’t get lost in their stories.
POV: Dual 1st person
PoP: 71%
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
Bethany is a woman who has stepped away from the money her family has to make it on her own. With that choice, her parents cut her off. She is putting everything she has into the bakery that she owns and is making all of the desserts for her sister’s wedding to prove that she is capable of doing it on her own.
Landon wars with himself because he feels a connection with Bethany but doesn’t want to do anything because of the mission he is on. He wants truths between them… and has a hard time separating himself from that. Once the truth comes out, Bethany is open and honest with the way in which they deal with it. I was pleasantly surprised and please in the way in which Janie Crouch treated this turn of events. Yes, Landon was keeping things from Bethany, but he explains it in a way that she understands and has no ill will towards him.
I am loving this series, but you are able to read it out of order because while each book has recurring characters, they do not overcrowd the pages and you don’t get lost in their stories.
POV: Dual 1st person
PoP: 71%
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
May 16, 2022
This is the third book in the series. They should be read in order. Landon is still recovering from getting shot by Wavy. He is healed but feels like everyone is treating him with kid gloves. Then he gets a case. Should be fairly easy. Just go undercover to help a baker working a wedding and plant some bugs. Then he meets the baker. Bethany is excited to provide the goodies for her sister’s wedding but dealing with her family is always taxing. Then her helper has a family emergency and she has no choice but to allow the guy he recommends to helper her. When she meets the guy, Landon she is taken by how attractive he is and surprised that he wants to take the job. Things take a turn when Landon finds himself attracted to Bethany. He can’t help but step up and help Bethany by saying he is her boyfriend when he hears the way people on the island are talking about her. Its not a hard ship for him at all. Landon finds himself in a situation. He has to complete the mission but now there are his feelings for Bethany. How will she react when she learns why he is really helping her? He doesn’t want her to be in danger. Landon is always so leveled headed and a charmer. He is surprised by Bethany; he expects her to act a certain way because of how she grew up but she is the complete opposite. Bethany is sweet and caring. She doesn’t care about the money she came from. She just wants to live a simple life and work at her bakery. This book was a fantastic read. I love Landon. All the guys in this series are fantastic. I can’t wait to read more about them. Janie is a fantastic author and I always look forward to her next book.
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