What do you think?
Rate this book
Passion For Danger #3
A Kiss to Kill
Revenge…
Eight months ago, Dr. Gina Cappozi and CIA black ops commando Captain Gregg van Halen were lovers until Gregg committed the ultimate betrayal. Left in the hands of terrorists and to do the unspeakable or die, Gina vowed to kill the man she once loved.
Danger…
She knows that Gregg lives in the shadow world of violence and darkness. She knows that he’s watching her every move. What she doesn’t know is that Gregg isn’t the only one following her–or that he still cherishes her.
Sex…
When Gina’s burning need for revenge leads her back to the one place she can easily lure Gregg–his bed–she rediscovers another, more irresistible need. Now, with the threat of enemies at every turn, Gina and Gregg realize that the power of betrayal and revenge is nothing compared to the power of love.
Eight months ago, Dr. Gina Cappozi and CIA black ops commando Captain Gregg van Halen were lovers until Gregg committed the ultimate betrayal. Left in the hands of terrorists and to do the unspeakable or die, Gina vowed to kill the man she once loved.
Danger…
She knows that Gregg lives in the shadow world of violence and darkness. She knows that he’s watching her every move. What she doesn’t know is that Gregg isn’t the only one following her–or that he still cherishes her.
Sex…
When Gina’s burning need for revenge leads her back to the one place she can easily lure Gregg–his bed–she rediscovers another, more irresistible need. Now, with the threat of enemies at every turn, Gina and Gregg realize that the power of betrayal and revenge is nothing compared to the power of love.
357 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
20 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read
About the author
Nina Bruhns
73 books551 followersNew York Times and USA Today best selling author Nina Bruhns is an avid world traveler and adventurer with two graduate degrees in archaeology -- all great fodder for her stories, giving them broad dimension, vivid settings and characters that are out of the ordinary. In addition to hitting both the NY Times and USA Today bestseller lists, her novels have earned two RITA nominations, and won numerous other awards, including three prestigious Daphne du Maurier Awards of Excellence for Overall Best Mystery Suspense Novel of the Year, five Dorothy Parker Awards, several RT BookClub Awards and a National Readers Choice Award.
A native of Canada, Nina grew up in California and currently resides in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina.
A native of Canada, Nina grew up in California and currently resides in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 7, 2017
“Don’t trust anyone.”
Finally we know who this mysterious traitor was!
In this third installment, the story focused on an investigation of the connection between the dead bodies and the terrorists’ malicious plan. In comparison with the previous books, there weren’t as many action scenes as expected here. But anyway, I had an adrenaline rush when all hell broke loose near the end of the book. So much went on that I felt like my heart would jump out of my chest.
It’s not hard to feel satisfied by the conclusion of the series because all the loose ends were all wrapped up nicely. However, I wish the author would give me some more details or insight into the villains’ motives. The big reveal at the end of this book came as a shock to me. From the very start of this series, there was no dropping of any hint as to who the real traitor was, so when all the truth was out in the open, I couldn’t even believe what I just read. But somehow, despite this, the disclosure felt a bit rushed to me.
The romance between the main couple, Gregg and Gina, was mind-blowingly wonderful. Gregg was such an amazing alpha man. Normally I’m not quite into tortured heroes, but Gregg just simply pushed my right buttons. His protectiveness alone was enough to make me fall head over heels for him. And about Gina, considering what she had been through, it was a miracle she could stay strong. It took so much bravery and strength for her to trust Gregg again and ultimately let him help her overcome her captivity trauma. Aww…I loved this couple.
“Sweet thing, if I’d wanted to hurt you, I’d already have done so,” he said reasonably.
Her eyes cut up to him from the table. “Don’t call me that.”
He stifled a sting in his heart. She used to like it when he called her sweet thing. So did he. Because she was. Incredibly sweet. Sweet sounding, sweet tasting, sweet smelling, sweet looking. She was the sweet and soft to everything hard and bitter inside him.
Even now, with her beautiful dark eyes filled with such loathing and suspicion, she was still the sweetest thing he’d ever seen.
My biggest problem about this book was that there was too much pushing away. I must admit, I had high hopes for Alex and Rebel’s love story since I read the first book, but in this installment, Alex drove me crazy with his I-am-not-good-enough-for-you issues. As you know, I hate push/pull relationship and in this case, Alex totally failed me. He came across more like a jerk to me. Rebel wasn’t much better than him. She was an inch away from being a doormat, and damn, I’m not a fan of doormat heroines! I don’t understand why didn’t she just walk out on him? She was better off alone, for crying out loud!
Nevertheless, this was a very entertaining read. Once I started reading it, I just couldn’t stop. I highly recommend this series to fans of romantic suspense stories.
“You’re safe with me, Gina,” he whispered roughly. “I swear to you, no one will ever hurt you again. Not as long as I’m still breathing.”
Finally we know who this mysterious traitor was!
In this third installment, the story focused on an investigation of the connection between the dead bodies and the terrorists’ malicious plan. In comparison with the previous books, there weren’t as many action scenes as expected here. But anyway, I had an adrenaline rush when all hell broke loose near the end of the book. So much went on that I felt like my heart would jump out of my chest.
It’s not hard to feel satisfied by the conclusion of the series because all the loose ends were all wrapped up nicely. However, I wish the author would give me some more details or insight into the villains’ motives. The big reveal at the end of this book came as a shock to me. From the very start of this series, there was no dropping of any hint as to who the real traitor was, so when all the truth was out in the open, I couldn’t even believe what I just read. But somehow, despite this, the disclosure felt a bit rushed to me.
The romance between the main couple, Gregg and Gina, was mind-blowingly wonderful. Gregg was such an amazing alpha man. Normally I’m not quite into tortured heroes, but Gregg just simply pushed my right buttons. His protectiveness alone was enough to make me fall head over heels for him. And about Gina, considering what she had been through, it was a miracle she could stay strong. It took so much bravery and strength for her to trust Gregg again and ultimately let him help her overcome her captivity trauma. Aww…I loved this couple.
“Sweet thing, if I’d wanted to hurt you, I’d already have done so,” he said reasonably.
Her eyes cut up to him from the table. “Don’t call me that.”
He stifled a sting in his heart. She used to like it when he called her sweet thing. So did he. Because she was. Incredibly sweet. Sweet sounding, sweet tasting, sweet smelling, sweet looking. She was the sweet and soft to everything hard and bitter inside him.
Even now, with her beautiful dark eyes filled with such loathing and suspicion, she was still the sweetest thing he’d ever seen.
My biggest problem about this book was that there was too much pushing away. I must admit, I had high hopes for Alex and Rebel’s love story since I read the first book, but in this installment, Alex drove me crazy with his I-am-not-good-enough-for-you issues. As you know, I hate push/pull relationship and in this case, Alex totally failed me. He came across more like a jerk to me. Rebel wasn’t much better than him. She was an inch away from being a doormat, and damn, I’m not a fan of doormat heroines! I don’t understand why didn’t she just walk out on him? She was better off alone, for crying out loud!
Nevertheless, this was a very entertaining read. Once I started reading it, I just couldn’t stop. I highly recommend this series to fans of romantic suspense stories.
“You’re safe with me, Gina,” he whispered roughly. “I swear to you, no one will ever hurt you again. Not as long as I’m still breathing.”
June 19, 2011
3 1/2 stars
Based on the previous books in the series, I had no doubt that suspension of disbelief was a must if I wanted to enjoy this read. As expected, this book had several eye-rolling moments, but I was braced for them so I had fun with all the OTT action. It was exciting and entertaining, so I won't complain about it. As I mentioned before, I like the suspense part of this series. Ms. Bruhns has the knack for writing thrilling action scenes, there's no question about it.
Unfortunately, it was the romance part that fell flat in this book - again... There were too many couples and storylines going on at the same time, and one got in the way of the other. I might as well repeat what I wrote in my review of the previous book (with a few adjustments, since some of the couples changed from one book to another): I'm sorry to say, the romance didn't work that well for me. It wasn't the lack of it; on the contrary, there were three romances going on in the book: Gregg/Gina, Alex/Rebel and Wade/Sarah/Rebel/Gina/a mysterious affair from his past. Wade's story was a mess, as I couldn't figure out who he cared for. It was all too much and none of them had enough "screen time" to be developed the way they should have been. Based on the book description, Gregg and Gina were the H/h, but that's not the impression I got while reading the book because the other romances had as many pages/scenes as theirs. The way it was, Ms. Bruhns couldn't make me connect with any of the characters.
Besides the three romances, there was also the "main" storyline that glued everything together: the search for the Government mole(s) who had betrayed the country and might be planning a new terrorist attack. That was the book's saving grace, as I really enjoyed the several plot twists and turns and the final showdown. Great stuff there!
Overall, this was a better than average read to me, but not enough to make me bump my rating to 4 stars. Like the previous books, it was too busy and crowded, which prevented me from getting to know and understand the characters well enough to love them, but it was fun.
Note on the series: These books must be read in order, preferably back to back because more than one storyline begins in the 1st book, is developed through the 2nd, only to end in the 3rd. You won't be lost if you start the series in the middle because Ms. Bruhns gives enough info to help you through the journey, but take it from me: I found it hard to connect with the characters and I knew them from the start; I can only imagine how I'd feel about them if I didn't.
Based on the previous books in the series, I had no doubt that suspension of disbelief was a must if I wanted to enjoy this read. As expected, this book had several eye-rolling moments, but I was braced for them so I had fun with all the OTT action. It was exciting and entertaining, so I won't complain about it. As I mentioned before, I like the suspense part of this series. Ms. Bruhns has the knack for writing thrilling action scenes, there's no question about it.
Unfortunately, it was the romance part that fell flat in this book - again... There were too many couples and storylines going on at the same time, and one got in the way of the other. I might as well repeat what I wrote in my review of the previous book (with a few adjustments, since some of the couples changed from one book to another): I'm sorry to say, the romance didn't work that well for me. It wasn't the lack of it; on the contrary, there were three romances going on in the book: Gregg/Gina, Alex/Rebel and Wade/Sarah/Rebel/Gina/a mysterious affair from his past. Wade's story was a mess, as I couldn't figure out who he cared for. It was all too much and none of them had enough "screen time" to be developed the way they should have been. Based on the book description, Gregg and Gina were the H/h, but that's not the impression I got while reading the book because the other romances had as many pages/scenes as theirs. The way it was, Ms. Bruhns couldn't make me connect with any of the characters.
Besides the three romances, there was also the "main" storyline that glued everything together: the search for the Government mole(s) who had betrayed the country and might be planning a new terrorist attack. That was the book's saving grace, as I really enjoyed the several plot twists and turns and the final showdown. Great stuff there!
Overall, this was a better than average read to me, but not enough to make me bump my rating to 4 stars. Like the previous books, it was too busy and crowded, which prevented me from getting to know and understand the characters well enough to love them, but it was fun.
Note on the series: These books must be read in order, preferably back to back because more than one storyline begins in the 1st book, is developed through the 2nd, only to end in the 3rd. You won't be lost if you start the series in the middle because Ms. Bruhns gives enough info to help you through the journey, but take it from me: I found it hard to connect with the characters and I knew them from the start; I can only imagine how I'd feel about them if I didn't.
April 23, 2010
5+ stars – Romantic Suspense
WOW! I loved, loved, loved it! What a fantastic, thrilling conclusion to an AWESOME series! If you like steamy, action-packed military romantic suspense and authors like Suzanne Brockmann, Marliss Melton, Catherine Mann, and Stephanie Tyler (only with more smokin' hot sex) and haven't yet read this series, then what on earth are you waiting for?! Big 5 stars!
This series must be read in order:
Shoot to Thrill
If Looks Could Chill
A Kiss to Kill
WOW! I loved, loved, loved it! What a fantastic, thrilling conclusion to an AWESOME series! If you like steamy, action-packed military romantic suspense and authors like Suzanne Brockmann, Marliss Melton, Catherine Mann, and Stephanie Tyler (only with more smokin' hot sex) and haven't yet read this series, then what on earth are you waiting for?! Big 5 stars!
This series must be read in order:
Shoot to Thrill
If Looks Could Chill
A Kiss to Kill
September 12, 2010
4.5/5 stars
What a great conclusion to the Passion for Danger trilogy!!
This book, the third in the Passion for Danger trilogy is, in my humble opinion, the best of the bunch! This story focuses more heavily on CIA black ops agent, Gregg Van Halen (no relation, as he quickly pointed out in book 1) and Gina Cappozi, a scientist who has been working to develop a way to inoculate children through a nasal inhalation device, as opposed to injections. Because of her work with new ways to dispense drugs, chemicals, etc., she was taken and held hostage by the terrorists who wanted her to develop a way that their biological weapon could be easily released in a crowded, public forum – thus causing the most death.
As the story we’ve followed through the first two book comes to an end, our heroes and heroines are racing against the clock to discover the identity of the government official who has turned traitor and put millions of lives at risk by assisting those ruthless terrorists who are still planning the biological attack on US soil. This traitor has another surprise in store for our characters – he/she is also plotting the assignation of the President of the United States.
It was great watching as all the couples finally found their happily ever afters and thwarted the terrorists and traitors hell bent on killing as many people as possible thus saving us all from a painful death by ugly black, oozing blisters – those just sound nasty!!!
As I’ve said before, if you can get past some of the not-likely-to-happen events, suspending your disbelief for just awhile, you’d probably enjoy these books.
Note - This is one of those trilogies that, in order to really understand and get the most enjoyment out of, really should be read in order.
The books in this trilogy and their reading order are:
1. Shoot to Thrill
2. If Looks Could Chill
3. A Kiss to Kill
What a great conclusion to the Passion for Danger trilogy!!
This book, the third in the Passion for Danger trilogy is, in my humble opinion, the best of the bunch! This story focuses more heavily on CIA black ops agent, Gregg Van Halen (no relation, as he quickly pointed out in book 1) and Gina Cappozi, a scientist who has been working to develop a way to inoculate children through a nasal inhalation device, as opposed to injections. Because of her work with new ways to dispense drugs, chemicals, etc., she was taken and held hostage by the terrorists who wanted her to develop a way that their biological weapon could be easily released in a crowded, public forum – thus causing the most death.
As the story we’ve followed through the first two book comes to an end, our heroes and heroines are racing against the clock to discover the identity of the government official who has turned traitor and put millions of lives at risk by assisting those ruthless terrorists who are still planning the biological attack on US soil. This traitor has another surprise in store for our characters – he/she is also plotting the assignation of the President of the United States.
It was great watching as all the couples finally found their happily ever afters and thwarted the terrorists and traitors hell bent on killing as many people as possible thus saving us all from a painful death by ugly black, oozing blisters – those just sound nasty!!!
As I’ve said before, if you can get past some of the not-likely-to-happen events, suspending your disbelief for just awhile, you’d probably enjoy these books.
Note - This is one of those trilogies that, in order to really understand and get the most enjoyment out of, really should be read in order.
The books in this trilogy and their reading order are:
1. Shoot to Thrill
2. If Looks Could Chill
3. A Kiss to Kill
August 14, 2011
Opening Line: “They were using her as bait.”
Oh I liked this one and I agree with others that this is the best of the Passion For Danger trilogy. Its like Bruhns finally got the formula right here with each character getting just the right amount of page time, an exciting but not over-the-top storyline and the perfect balance of action/suspense to romance. It could also be said though that I’ve gotten used to her style and didn’t expect to read exclusively about just one couple. I actually enjoyed the multiple romances taking place this time around and since I’ve read these back to back (thanks to advice from other reviews) I was also seriously invested in the characters and seeing them through to their HEA’s.
All in all this was a great read that I was sad to see come to an end. Theres some excellent action scenes; Rebel and Alex diving the “Allah’s Paradise” wreck during one of his flashbacks (yikes) and quite a few LOL funny moments including male bonding “fist bumps” and the continued witty banter between agents. The love scenes remain heartfelt and super steamy with just the right amount of alpha maleness thrown in.
I should mention that in order to fully appreciate the back story and romantic build up involved here this series should be read in order, as almost all of the characters stories began in book #1(Shoot to Thrill) and are only now are seeing through to their conclusions.
Pegged as Gina and Gregg’s book -although as I said all the couples receive equal page time, this couple met eight months ago. Back then scientist Dr Gina Cappozi and black-ops agent Gregg Van Halen were (fantastic) lovers until Gregg committed the ultimate betrayal, turning Gina over to the hands of the terrorists. Tortured for several months, while they utilized her bio chemical talents to perform acts of terrorism Gina was rescued in the last book (A Kiss to Kill) and has now made it her mission to kill the man she once loved. Of course that wouldn’t be any fun especially now that she’s being targeted by kidnappers again and it seems that Gregg is the only one who can help her. Even if he is slightly controlling, in and out of the bedroom.
This is however only one of several ongoing plotlines we also get; Alex and Rebel who have finally gotten it together, although he has a few surprises about why they can’t stay that way and newcomer detective Sarah McPhee and rebound specialist Wade Montana. Hmm, more secrets there too. While all the love is going on the agents are still running around trying to discover the identity (didn’t see that coming) of the person responsible for the terrorist attacks and also to stop “the trigger” from killing the president. All these subplots blend well this time into a fast paced romantic thriller. Cheers
Oh I liked this one and I agree with others that this is the best of the Passion For Danger trilogy. Its like Bruhns finally got the formula right here with each character getting just the right amount of page time, an exciting but not over-the-top storyline and the perfect balance of action/suspense to romance. It could also be said though that I’ve gotten used to her style and didn’t expect to read exclusively about just one couple. I actually enjoyed the multiple romances taking place this time around and since I’ve read these back to back (thanks to advice from other reviews) I was also seriously invested in the characters and seeing them through to their HEA’s.
All in all this was a great read that I was sad to see come to an end. Theres some excellent action scenes; Rebel and Alex diving the “Allah’s Paradise” wreck during one of his flashbacks (yikes) and quite a few LOL funny moments including male bonding “fist bumps” and the continued witty banter between agents. The love scenes remain heartfelt and super steamy with just the right amount of alpha maleness thrown in.
I should mention that in order to fully appreciate the back story and romantic build up involved here this series should be read in order, as almost all of the characters stories began in book #1(Shoot to Thrill) and are only now are seeing through to their conclusions.
Pegged as Gina and Gregg’s book -although as I said all the couples receive equal page time, this couple met eight months ago. Back then scientist Dr Gina Cappozi and black-ops agent Gregg Van Halen were (fantastic) lovers until Gregg committed the ultimate betrayal, turning Gina over to the hands of the terrorists. Tortured for several months, while they utilized her bio chemical talents to perform acts of terrorism Gina was rescued in the last book (A Kiss to Kill) and has now made it her mission to kill the man she once loved. Of course that wouldn’t be any fun especially now that she’s being targeted by kidnappers again and it seems that Gregg is the only one who can help her. Even if he is slightly controlling, in and out of the bedroom.
This is however only one of several ongoing plotlines we also get; Alex and Rebel who have finally gotten it together, although he has a few surprises about why they can’t stay that way and newcomer detective Sarah McPhee and rebound specialist Wade Montana. Hmm, more secrets there too. While all the love is going on the agents are still running around trying to discover the identity (didn’t see that coming) of the person responsible for the terrorist attacks and also to stop “the trigger” from killing the president. All these subplots blend well this time into a fast paced romantic thriller. Cheers
March 19, 2012
A great finish to the series and I am gonna miss those guys;) I wasn't overly impressed with the first book but things definitely changed from the second.
There are loads of excellent reviews out there and I am feeling a little lazy :) but just wanted to quickly add one thing. Like the second we followed 3 different couples in the story and I did feel that the book was a bit 'crowded' and would have been better if each couple (or maybe 2 couple's at a time) had got their own book. I understand that would have been difficult due to the timeline and overall events of the story but each book could have been from the couple's prospective adding new information for the reader as it progressed.
Overall I did enjoy the series and will continue to read books by Ms Bruhn.
There are loads of excellent reviews out there and I am feeling a little lazy :) but just wanted to quickly add one thing. Like the second we followed 3 different couples in the story and I did feel that the book was a bit 'crowded' and would have been better if each couple (or maybe 2 couple's at a time) had got their own book. I understand that would have been difficult due to the timeline and overall events of the story but each book could have been from the couple's prospective adding new information for the reader as it progressed.
Overall I did enjoy the series and will continue to read books by Ms Bruhn.
April 20, 2010
Kick ass book (from a kick ass series). Once I started reading this one, I did not want to put it down. I just wanted to sit there until I finished. I was totally and absolutely hooked into it from the very start.
Series Note:
This series MUST be read in order.
Summary:
Geneticist Gina Cappozi's life has been a roller coaster for the past year. First her best friend disappears, then she meets a mysterious sexy guy and starts a blazing affair with him...then he betrays her (or so she believes) and she's captured by terrorists and tortured for months. Now she's physically healed and out for blood. Gregg van Halen's blood, to be exact. But when they finally meet up again, Gina is forced to realize that maybe he's not the bad guy she thought he was...unfortunately, someone still wants both of them dead.
At the same time, STORM Corps agent Alex Zane is heading back into the field for the first time since being rescued from a terrorist camp in Sudan. Right off the bat he finds himself thrown together with FBI agent Rebel Haywood as they try to find out who is after Gina. Rebel's been in love with Alex for years, but he keeps pushing her away. But as they must work together, Alex can't help back any longer. The two have a lot to work through, though, if they want to find happiness.
Review:
What to say about this book? It's got a little of just about everything I love in a good romantic suspense. A tense, engaging plot, great characters, fantastic romance, some steamy sex...all of which had me anxious to get back to the book whenever I had to put it down. I loved this book, and I loved the series on the whole. Absolutely fantastic.
This series really needs to be read in order, for anyone considering it. Everything between the three books is very tied together...plots, romances, characters, events. I think you'd end up a bit confused if you skipped around. I've read all three and I kept wishing I'd read them closer together as I read this one, that's how tied together the details are.
In this book, the al Sayika terrorist plot comes to a head as the group from STORM Corps, along with some FBI, some Metro PD, some Zero Unit and some other agents try to figure out who the traitor is who is putting them all in danger. It's a plot that goes in a lot of directions because there are so many characters and groupings. It kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next, who the bad guy was, how it would all play out. I must admit I was a bit surprised at the end as to the identity of the bad guy(s). And that last scene...the big plot climax...whew. That was tense. Excellently done by the author. I was just so hooked into the plot of this book, all the series arcs, the book plot...all of it was great.
Adding to all that were the characters and the romance. Gina and Gregg...fantastic couple. So much chemistry and heat. And okay, Gregg sounded like a hunk and a half ;) But they were great together. As were Alex and Rebel. This romance sorted started back in book one (as Gina and Gregg's did) and everything between them finally comes to a head in this book. These two are so meant for each other, but everything is working against them. Poor Alex, the man has been through so much. Over a year being tortured by terrorists, now he's got the PTSD to prove it. And Rebel...kick ass girl. I liked her. She was absolutely perfect for Alex. Between these two romances, it made the book even between. Plus, there's a mini romance for Wade, Gina's ex.
Then there's the sex...very steamy. It's not a book for the prudish sort. It's moderately graphic, with some explicit language, and also the inclusion of some non-vanilla sexual themes (bondage, dominance). So keep that in mind. But yeah, sexy scenes. And don't get me started on the tattoo thing... I have no words...
Was the book perfect? No. I give it five stars because I thought it was an awesome book. But it did have a few flaws. As I mentioned in at least one of the other books, character development could use some work. The characters are very much set in the moment and you really get little sense of their pasts and who they were before the books started. Leaves them a little one dimensional at times. There were also a few details here and there between books that didn't quite match up. But I didn't have any major complaints (obviously).
I'd highly, highly recommend this series to romantic suspense fans...especially those of you who like spec ops stories and the like. I loved all three books. I hope the author gets the opportunity to continue this series, or to write another like it. I would definitely read them!
Series Note:
This series MUST be read in order.
Summary:
Geneticist Gina Cappozi's life has been a roller coaster for the past year. First her best friend disappears, then she meets a mysterious sexy guy and starts a blazing affair with him...then he betrays her (or so she believes) and she's captured by terrorists and tortured for months. Now she's physically healed and out for blood. Gregg van Halen's blood, to be exact. But when they finally meet up again, Gina is forced to realize that maybe he's not the bad guy she thought he was...unfortunately, someone still wants both of them dead.
At the same time, STORM Corps agent Alex Zane is heading back into the field for the first time since being rescued from a terrorist camp in Sudan. Right off the bat he finds himself thrown together with FBI agent Rebel Haywood as they try to find out who is after Gina. Rebel's been in love with Alex for years, but he keeps pushing her away. But as they must work together, Alex can't help back any longer. The two have a lot to work through, though, if they want to find happiness.
Review:
What to say about this book? It's got a little of just about everything I love in a good romantic suspense. A tense, engaging plot, great characters, fantastic romance, some steamy sex...all of which had me anxious to get back to the book whenever I had to put it down. I loved this book, and I loved the series on the whole. Absolutely fantastic.
This series really needs to be read in order, for anyone considering it. Everything between the three books is very tied together...plots, romances, characters, events. I think you'd end up a bit confused if you skipped around. I've read all three and I kept wishing I'd read them closer together as I read this one, that's how tied together the details are.
In this book, the al Sayika terrorist plot comes to a head as the group from STORM Corps, along with some FBI, some Metro PD, some Zero Unit and some other agents try to figure out who the traitor is who is putting them all in danger. It's a plot that goes in a lot of directions because there are so many characters and groupings. It kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next, who the bad guy was, how it would all play out. I must admit I was a bit surprised at the end as to the identity of the bad guy(s). And that last scene...the big plot climax...whew. That was tense. Excellently done by the author. I was just so hooked into the plot of this book, all the series arcs, the book plot...all of it was great.
Adding to all that were the characters and the romance. Gina and Gregg...fantastic couple. So much chemistry and heat. And okay, Gregg sounded like a hunk and a half ;) But they were great together. As were Alex and Rebel. This romance sorted started back in book one (as Gina and Gregg's did) and everything between them finally comes to a head in this book. These two are so meant for each other, but everything is working against them. Poor Alex, the man has been through so much. Over a year being tortured by terrorists, now he's got the PTSD to prove it. And Rebel...kick ass girl. I liked her. She was absolutely perfect for Alex. Between these two romances, it made the book even between. Plus, there's a mini romance for Wade, Gina's ex.
Then there's the sex...very steamy. It's not a book for the prudish sort. It's moderately graphic, with some explicit language, and also the inclusion of some non-vanilla sexual themes (bondage, dominance). So keep that in mind. But yeah, sexy scenes. And don't get me started on the tattoo thing... I have no words...
Was the book perfect? No. I give it five stars because I thought it was an awesome book. But it did have a few flaws. As I mentioned in at least one of the other books, character development could use some work. The characters are very much set in the moment and you really get little sense of their pasts and who they were before the books started. Leaves them a little one dimensional at times. There were also a few details here and there between books that didn't quite match up. But I didn't have any major complaints (obviously).
I'd highly, highly recommend this series to romantic suspense fans...especially those of you who like spec ops stories and the like. I loved all three books. I hope the author gets the opportunity to continue this series, or to write another like it. I would definitely read them!
May 21, 2010
Another page turner! Book #3 in the Passion for Danger series picked up right were #1 and #2 left off so be sure to read this series in order because the back stories and build-up are in the earlier books.
In the first book, Shoot to Thrill, we got a few splashes of Gina Cappazi and Gregg van Halen's tale. Oh my! In the second book, If Looks Could Chill, their saga further developed with some intense scenes that involved abduction, torture and biological weapons. In book 3 (this one), Gina and Gregg become the main characters, and it starts off and goes.
As with the first 2 books in the series, this one had several other stories running through it and updates on previous characters.
Alex Zane (Christopher Alexander Zane) and Rebel Hayward played a large role here and I wasn't too thrilled with their saga. Alex had problems, true, but when a person has been carrying a torch for someone for so long....His rationalé got on my nerves. The posturing over Rebel got old, too. He wanted his cake and eat it, too, but acted very immature.
One overall theme that seemed to carry through the entire series that I didn't care for was how the men screwed the women into senseless oblivion. The women all caved when the men forced themselves on them and I'd like to see that backed away from in future books. Also, it irritated the hell out of me that the women, whether police detectives, FBI, STORM, etc were always "serving the coffee."
Got a kick out of Metro Police Detective Sarah McPhee! Hope to read more about her in later books. She had an "older woman/younger man" theme going on and she was in complete control of her actions. Great sense of humor, too. Would like to have read more of her back story....
Got a sense there would be more in this series and there are certainly plenty of characters with the local police, FBI, CIA and STORM characters all working together--mostly.
Excellent writing and how the overall plot was weaved was nicely done. The suspense was superb! Some funny scenes here and there, but mostly hot, romantic suspense. Emphasis on "hot."
In the first book, Shoot to Thrill, we got a few splashes of Gina Cappazi and Gregg van Halen's tale. Oh my! In the second book, If Looks Could Chill, their saga further developed with some intense scenes that involved abduction, torture and biological weapons. In book 3 (this one), Gina and Gregg become the main characters, and it starts off and goes.
As with the first 2 books in the series, this one had several other stories running through it and updates on previous characters.
Alex Zane (Christopher Alexander Zane) and Rebel Hayward played a large role here and I wasn't too thrilled with their saga. Alex had problems, true, but when a person has been carrying a torch for someone for so long....His rationalé got on my nerves. The posturing over Rebel got old, too. He wanted his cake and eat it, too, but acted very immature.
One overall theme that seemed to carry through the entire series that I didn't care for was how the men screwed the women into senseless oblivion. The women all caved when the men forced themselves on them and I'd like to see that backed away from in future books. Also, it irritated the hell out of me that the women, whether police detectives, FBI, STORM, etc were always "serving the coffee."
Got a kick out of Metro Police Detective Sarah McPhee! Hope to read more about her in later books. She had an "older woman/younger man" theme going on and she was in complete control of her actions. Great sense of humor, too. Would like to have read more of her back story....
Got a sense there would be more in this series and there are certainly plenty of characters with the local police, FBI, CIA and STORM characters all working together--mostly.
Excellent writing and how the overall plot was weaved was nicely done. The suspense was superb! Some funny scenes here and there, but mostly hot, romantic suspense. Emphasis on "hot."
July 16, 2010
I was going to give this book a 4 stars but the ending was so good that I had to add an extra 1/2 so a Kiss To Kill gets a 4 1/2 stars from me.
I really liked most of this book but parts I flat out loved. Once again the action was really good, the characters were great and the heat was there.
I really liked that I had NO idea who the bad guy's where until the end. It had me guessing as to who it was through the whole story.
The problem I had with this series is that every hero was afraid to commit to his lady love because his job was so dangerous. I can understand that but there were like 6 romances rolled into the three book's in this series and this scenario just got too over used for my taste.
The HEA for everyone was what I loved the most.
All and all I am really glad I read this series.
I really liked most of this book but parts I flat out loved. Once again the action was really good, the characters were great and the heat was there.
I really liked that I had NO idea who the bad guy's where until the end. It had me guessing as to who it was through the whole story.
The problem I had with this series is that every hero was afraid to commit to his lady love because his job was so dangerous. I can understand that but there were like 6 romances rolled into the three book's in this series and this scenario just got too over used for my taste.
The HEA for everyone was what I loved the most.
All and all I am really glad I read this series.
April 6, 2010
WOW WOW WOW!!! Couldn't ask for a better finish to this series. This book was written well, characters and their stories completed to satisfaction, and an all around amazing and suspenseful story. I'm ready to read the entire series again! If you haven't read this series, give yourself a big treat and get the books soon!
April 9, 2010
I enjoyed this so much more than I expected to. The cover is truly frightening (while oddly appealing!!), but the story was so much fun.
There was a lot going on here - we could have had more time with Gina and Gregg to see their relationship evolve - however, Nina Bruhns can write relationships like nobody's business, and wow did I fall in love with Gregg (and the others in the various pairings). I think Gina was realistic, considering what she's been through. After having most of the other women in this series be superhero cops and special agents, I liked that Gina was a normal woman I felt I could identify with.
I love romantic suspense that actually bothers to have a suspense plot, and this is one of those books. There was just the right balance between the different aspects of the books.
I know I will be rereading this.
There was a lot going on here - we could have had more time with Gina and Gregg to see their relationship evolve - however, Nina Bruhns can write relationships like nobody's business, and wow did I fall in love with Gregg (and the others in the various pairings). I think Gina was realistic, considering what she's been through. After having most of the other women in this series be superhero cops and special agents, I liked that Gina was a normal woman I felt I could identify with.
I love romantic suspense that actually bothers to have a suspense plot, and this is one of those books. There was just the right balance between the different aspects of the books.
I know I will be rereading this.
October 12, 2014
Another fun book with this big group of STORM and assorted other police people.
Gina is in trouble again, well, not really again, as much as still. The big bad behind the whole larger plot of the previous 2 books and this one is trying to tie up the loose ends. Those loose ends being Kick, Alex, and Gina, all of whom have a target on their head.
Gina is still trying to come to terms with Gregg's betrayal, when he pops back in her life and things become even more complicated. The team quickly comes together to protect her, which brings even more complications. Gina has to face some old ghosts and seems to find the same difficulties that all the other female members of these books have.
Alex and Rebel are thrown together, their attraction still red hot. Each one of them has their own issues and seeing them lay them out and work through them is fun. Alex, like most guys, seems to make a lot of mistakes along the way.
Wade is hanging around and again I am not sure just where his loyalties lie. With each new piece of evidence if found it either condemns him or redeems him, the bad part is that they keep finding things and you aren't sure.
With all the twists and turns you just aren't sure who to trust and who the bad guys are.
I really hope that this author keeps writing within this series as they are fun to read!!
Gina is in trouble again, well, not really again, as much as still. The big bad behind the whole larger plot of the previous 2 books and this one is trying to tie up the loose ends. Those loose ends being Kick, Alex, and Gina, all of whom have a target on their head.
Gina is still trying to come to terms with Gregg's betrayal, when he pops back in her life and things become even more complicated. The team quickly comes together to protect her, which brings even more complications. Gina has to face some old ghosts and seems to find the same difficulties that all the other female members of these books have.
Alex and Rebel are thrown together, their attraction still red hot. Each one of them has their own issues and seeing them lay them out and work through them is fun. Alex, like most guys, seems to make a lot of mistakes along the way.
Wade is hanging around and again I am not sure just where his loyalties lie. With each new piece of evidence if found it either condemns him or redeems him, the bad part is that they keep finding things and you aren't sure.
With all the twists and turns you just aren't sure who to trust and who the bad guys are.
I really hope that this author keeps writing within this series as they are fun to read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2012
I loved this series. What I don't love is that this is the end. I want more. This book and series had everything I love in a romantic suspense. This is fast paced, gritty, emotional, sexy, action packed story. Captain Gregg van Halen is an intense, emotionally scared, hardened black op committed to clearing his name and to save his past lover Gina from their enemies.
Alex Zane and Rebel have a conclusion to their story after many twists and turns. Usually due to Alex's problems. Another alpha working through his scars and intense emotions on what he thinks is best for the love of his life
Wade and Sarah have an intriguing story line but not as much heat. He had more heat and was more virile in the previous book *If looks could chill*.
It was a good series with action, suspense, heat, and thrills.
June 17, 2011
3.5 stars. Once again lots of stories going on.
There is a theme in each relationship though. Man and woman come together violently. Man says no I can't there are too many issues. Woman feels hurt and tries to distance herself but can't stop humping the sexy bod of said man. Man comes to senses and everyone lives happily ever after. I found it kind of annoying that the women constantly pant after the men with little or no diginity.
Anyway, still an entertaining enough read. I wouldn't mind a story about Commander Bridger and to see Quinn/Darcy married.
There is a theme in each relationship though. Man and woman come together violently. Man says no I can't there are too many issues. Woman feels hurt and tries to distance herself but can't stop humping the sexy bod of said man. Man comes to senses and everyone lives happily ever after. I found it kind of annoying that the women constantly pant after the men with little or no diginity.
Anyway, still an entertaining enough read. I wouldn't mind a story about Commander Bridger and to see Quinn/Darcy married.
September 18, 2010
The third book in the Passion For Danger series by Nina Bruhns. Definitely need to read this series in order. I loved the series and I'm glad I was able to read it back to back. Had I read this out of order or waited as they were published I probably wouldn't have enjoyed it as much. There is a storyline that continues through all three novels. The only real issue is as I said in my review for book 2, too many romances going on and the spotlight didn't stay on the main H/h as I would have preferred.
January 9, 2011
This series was amazing. There are 3 different relationships happening... Gina & Gregg, Wade & Sarah and Rebel & Alex.
Rebel and Alex were my favorite, BUT I was so tired of "Language..." That I didn't even want to read their part anymore. It just became so stupid. I mean really!! NO S*** Sherlock! I get the woman doesn't say bad words... enough already! I hated her by the end, so my review lost a star.
Could have been a 5 star book, but the above statement was OVERKILL... Other than that!! Awesome book & I am surprised there are not very many... I will keep her on my favorite author list!
Rebel and Alex were my favorite, BUT I was so tired of "Language..." That I didn't even want to read their part anymore. It just became so stupid. I mean really!! NO S*** Sherlock! I get the woman doesn't say bad words... enough already! I hated her by the end, so my review lost a star.
Could have been a 5 star book, but the above statement was OVERKILL... Other than that!! Awesome book & I am surprised there are not very many... I will keep her on my favorite author list!
December 5, 2009
A Kiss To Kill is the third and final book in the Passion For Danger series. The continuing cast of characters from books 1 and 2 (Shoot To Thrill, and If Looks Could Chill), including Gregg and Gina, Alex and Rebel, Kick, Quinn, and Marc, race the clock to discover who the government traitor is who is helping al Sayika wreak terror on the country...and why. Sizzling romance and high adventure are the order of the day!
July 25, 2011
Just what I need, another author to add to my favorites lists and another series to add to my TBB list. But I’ve already done the deed after reading A Kiss to Kill. This is my first book in Ms. Bruhns’ Passion for Danger series, and I loved every darned word of it. I want more. Now.
Gina Capozzi is finally recovered from her torturous ordeal at the hands of terrorists, and how she’s as angry as can be and is out for the blood of her former lover, rogue CIA operative Greg Van Halen. He’s the one who betrayed her, left her in the hands of those who turned her over to the bastards who nearly beat her to death after forcing her to create a deadly chemical for their twisted use.
She knows he’s out there watching her. All she needs is a chance to get close to him and she’ll let her new-found skill take care of the rest. What she doesn’t know is Greg isn’t the only one following her. She’s working with her friends and their colleagues from STORM, the highly specialized group hired to root out the terrorists, to lure Greg into the open, but she ends up in Greg’s hands before anyone else can get to her.
He’s determined to find out why he was sent out of the country so Gina’s handlers could do their dirty work that very easily could have, and probably should have, lead to her demise. Greg knows Gina blames him for the brutality she suffered, but he’s not the one who betrayed her and he’s going to make damn sure she knows it. He’s also going to have her in his bed again, no matter what.
Greg and Gina are one of the hottest couples I’ve read lately. They have a connection that can’t be broken. They know each other so intimately that once they are together again, their innate trust and love in one another has always been there, they just have to learn to hold onto it in the face of any further danger and betrayal. They are definitely tested again later in the book, and I nearly screamed when it looked like things may not work out for them.
I also like the two secondary stories we get. Alex is a STORM agent who has also been tortured by terrorists, and he’s in love with CIA agent Rebel Haywood, who has been loaned to STORM when it’s found their cases are closely related. Alex refuses to act on his feelings for Rebel for his own reasons, but she won’t put up with his nonsense for too long.
Sarah McPhee is a DC Metro police officer and she’s heading up a murder that turns out to also be related to STORM’s case, but she also has to deal with sexy CIA agent Wade Montana, who is unofficially nosing around for information. Sarah is interested in him, but when it looks like he may be illicitly involved in the whole thing, she feels she should have known better.
There’s not one thing I didn’t like about this took. It’s fast paced. It’s got an intriguing and complex story and mystery. It’s got fascinating characters on every page. It’s sexy and sensual and then some. I just ordered the first two books in the series and I can’t wait to get to them. The mailman had better watch out when he makes that delivery.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Gina Capozzi is finally recovered from her torturous ordeal at the hands of terrorists, and how she’s as angry as can be and is out for the blood of her former lover, rogue CIA operative Greg Van Halen. He’s the one who betrayed her, left her in the hands of those who turned her over to the bastards who nearly beat her to death after forcing her to create a deadly chemical for their twisted use.
She knows he’s out there watching her. All she needs is a chance to get close to him and she’ll let her new-found skill take care of the rest. What she doesn’t know is Greg isn’t the only one following her. She’s working with her friends and their colleagues from STORM, the highly specialized group hired to root out the terrorists, to lure Greg into the open, but she ends up in Greg’s hands before anyone else can get to her.
He’s determined to find out why he was sent out of the country so Gina’s handlers could do their dirty work that very easily could have, and probably should have, lead to her demise. Greg knows Gina blames him for the brutality she suffered, but he’s not the one who betrayed her and he’s going to make damn sure she knows it. He’s also going to have her in his bed again, no matter what.
Greg and Gina are one of the hottest couples I’ve read lately. They have a connection that can’t be broken. They know each other so intimately that once they are together again, their innate trust and love in one another has always been there, they just have to learn to hold onto it in the face of any further danger and betrayal. They are definitely tested again later in the book, and I nearly screamed when it looked like things may not work out for them.
I also like the two secondary stories we get. Alex is a STORM agent who has also been tortured by terrorists, and he’s in love with CIA agent Rebel Haywood, who has been loaned to STORM when it’s found their cases are closely related. Alex refuses to act on his feelings for Rebel for his own reasons, but she won’t put up with his nonsense for too long.
Sarah McPhee is a DC Metro police officer and she’s heading up a murder that turns out to also be related to STORM’s case, but she also has to deal with sexy CIA agent Wade Montana, who is unofficially nosing around for information. Sarah is interested in him, but when it looks like he may be illicitly involved in the whole thing, she feels she should have known better.
There’s not one thing I didn’t like about this took. It’s fast paced. It’s got an intriguing and complex story and mystery. It’s got fascinating characters on every page. It’s sexy and sensual and then some. I just ordered the first two books in the series and I can’t wait to get to them. The mailman had better watch out when he makes that delivery.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
October 25, 2015
Actually 3.75 stars
After her harrowing rescue in the previous installment, Dr. Gina Cappozi's brilliance is centered on one thought. Vengeance against Captain Gregg van Halen, it's what she lives for. By all appearances, Gina is safe, secure and resuming her life in New York while STORM operatives watch over her hoping to catch Gregg. Gina vows to herself she won't take an easy breath as long as Gregg takes any.
Gregg's aware he's a wanted man but can't seem to stay away from Gina as he watches and waits. While their romance or relationship or whatever it was going on between them, it wasn't the only romantic focus and this reader felt it was easy to get lost in the reason for the outing. For my taste this final outing was too invested in the romance threads and didn't do complete justice to the other pieces.
There were many almost vignettes or novellas going on, such as, monitoring Gina, Gina/Greg relationship, Gina's monitors; the Alex, Rebel, Wade, Helen double triangle, the Alex/Rebel relationship; Wade sexcapades featuring Rebel, Sarah, Gina, mystery woman from the past, ad nauseam was a full time job. Dez got short sheeted, tracking Gina's captors and not enough time devoted to the traitor with STORM inserted as an afterthought it was all too much.
I'm fine with a busy read but no one thread came across as the focus for the story. I had difficulty caring what happened anywhere between any characters and there were as many pages devoted to the action/adventure/drama pieces as to the individual romances until I stopped caring. I just wanted to be done.
The busyness coupled with the much too outrageous situations led to many opportunities for eye-rolls and exasperated sighs at how OTT action unfolded. However, the action and adventure pieces didn't disappoint in terms of tasks and getting the job done and actually led to a good wrap of loose ends.
After her harrowing rescue in the previous installment, Dr. Gina Cappozi's brilliance is centered on one thought. Vengeance against Captain Gregg van Halen, it's what she lives for. By all appearances, Gina is safe, secure and resuming her life in New York while STORM operatives watch over her hoping to catch Gregg. Gina vows to herself she won't take an easy breath as long as Gregg takes any.
Gregg's aware he's a wanted man but can't seem to stay away from Gina as he watches and waits. While their romance or relationship or whatever it was going on between them, it wasn't the only romantic focus and this reader felt it was easy to get lost in the reason for the outing. For my taste this final outing was too invested in the romance threads and didn't do complete justice to the other pieces.
There were many almost vignettes or novellas going on, such as, monitoring Gina, Gina/Greg relationship, Gina's monitors; the Alex, Rebel, Wade, Helen double triangle, the Alex/Rebel relationship; Wade sexcapades featuring Rebel, Sarah, Gina, mystery woman from the past, ad nauseam was a full time job. Dez got short sheeted, tracking Gina's captors and not enough time devoted to the traitor with STORM inserted as an afterthought it was all too much.
I'm fine with a busy read but no one thread came across as the focus for the story. I had difficulty caring what happened anywhere between any characters and there were as many pages devoted to the action/adventure/drama pieces as to the individual romances until I stopped caring. I just wanted to be done.
The busyness coupled with the much too outrageous situations led to many opportunities for eye-rolls and exasperated sighs at how OTT action unfolded. However, the action and adventure pieces didn't disappoint in terms of tasks and getting the job done and actually led to a good wrap of loose ends.
November 30, 2012
With all the different POVs, relationships, and conspiracy theories in this story, and the whole series, you can often find yourself feeling that the love story has been pushed aside for the action and intrigue. Though the novels were good I doubt I’ll read them again or try any of Nina’s other series. I much prefer one main romance in my novels, though I have read some well-done ones with secondary romances in the background. This seems more like she was trying to have too many couples coming together in too short of a series. I think if you count as you read the series something like six or seven couples came together in just three books along with all the terrorist plots, kidnappings, and police investigations. It was just too much happening too fast I think.
for full review see my blog at http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
for full review see my blog at http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
December 19, 2010
I dub this book the first entry into the "thank God that trilogy is over" category.
There was so much going on. Anyone who might try to pick this up on a whim, not having read the other two, would have no idea what's going on. None whatsoever. I liked Gina/Gregg and I'm glad they had a resolution. Rebel and Alex just got on my nerves. Wade and Sarah just seemed completely unnecessary in my opinion - three stories are just too much to follow and detract from ANY of the couple having much airtime.
3 stars ONLY for the resolution of Gina & Gregg.
There was so much going on. Anyone who might try to pick this up on a whim, not having read the other two, would have no idea what's going on. None whatsoever. I liked Gina/Gregg and I'm glad they had a resolution. Rebel and Alex just got on my nerves. Wade and Sarah just seemed completely unnecessary in my opinion - three stories are just too much to follow and detract from ANY of the couple having much airtime.
3 stars ONLY for the resolution of Gina & Gregg.
August 18, 2010
I have really liked all three books in this trilogy. My only issue is that I feel like Nina Bruhns tries to cram as many relationships as she can into each book. This one felt more like Rebel and Alex's book, and not Gregg and Gina's. I wanted more time with each couple, and the constant switching got on my nerves. Each time with each couple was just enough to leave us wanting more, and then it switched. Still, I read this in one day, and I wish there were more.
December 23, 2011
I really enjoyed this series. I was a bit disappointed by this book; only because the other 2 had led up to the conclusion in this one. I think I'd built up too big of a story in book 3. But still I really enjoyed this book and the entire series.
April 7, 2010
Wonderful wrap up to the series! Fans of this series will love it!
August 30, 2015
A Kiss to Kill by Nina Bruhns
September 30, 2010
4.85 // Action: 4.75 / Emotion: 4.75 / Romance: 4.95 / Sensuous: 4.5 / Intrigue: 5 / Humor: 1 / Tears: 2
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
After reading Book Two ( If Looks Could Chill ) of The Passion For Danger Trilogy, could not wait to read Book Three, A Kiss to Kill . Although A Kiss To Kill was chock full of blazing action, nail-biting suspense, frustrating romance and heated sensuality, it was not as intense as the previous book. Having read the books back-to-back it was, thus, a bit of a let down. Part of the problem could be that Bruhns did such a phenomenal job with her misdirection, it was mortifying to be so far off the mark when it came to identifying the villain.
Although it will not become a favorite style, Bruhns wrote another triple romance in one book. The featured couple was Zero Unit's Captain Gregg van Halen and Dr. Gina Cappozi. The very strongly-featured secondary couple was Alex Zane and FBI Special Agent Rebel Haywood. Thirdly, a minor romance between Special Agent in Charge Wade Montana and Metro PD Detective Sarah McPhee was developed.
A Kiss To Kill was tied to the other two books of the trilogy by featuring Bobby Lee Quinn as the STORM Commander leading the same basic team in their continued search for the traitor who framed Gregg for kidnapping Gina. It was great to get to re-visit with Darcy Zimmerman; Kick Jackson and Rainie Martin; and Marc Lafayette and Tara Reeves as they set up their headquarters in Washington D.C.'s Watergate Hotel.
Another successful writing technique that many romantic suspense authors seem to utilize to keep the readers enthralled and intrigued is jumping from one sequence of events to another (usually featuring a different character's point of view). While this technique is necessary to tell a cohesive story about how three couples separately work to find the same villain, it is a bit frustrating at times. It seems that Bruhns has done such a great job creating these strong, fascinating characters, she would have been better served to have written six more richly developed books giving the readers more background and emotional details about each couple featured in this trilogy. (But Bruhns probably wasn't offered a six-book deal from her publisher!)
Romance One: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Dr. Gina Cappozi has been released from her stay at STORM's Haven Oaks Sanatorium where she recovered after her horrific ordeal as a captive of the terrorist group al Sayika. She is currently serving as bait (under the watchful eyes of STORM Corp. operatives) to draw out the U.S. mole who is feeding information to al Sayika. Gina has trained to exact her own revenge on her ex-lover, whom she has long and loudly proclaimed as the man who betrayed her and handed her over to terrorists.
Gregg, however, has been proving his ability to be a ubër-alpha, well-trained, shadowy operative by following Gina to keep her safe. Gregg's mission is two-fold. He wants to find the man who not only hurt his ex-lover (someone who was drawing him from his world of darkness into the light), but framed him for the deed. He wants his honor and his job back (and he wishes that he could have Gina back, but he knows her hatred is too intense).
When three al Sayika terrorists try to kill Gina on the streets of Manhattan, it is Gregg who saves her. Gregg then kidnaps Gina, takes her to his apartment {how could he still have an unfindable apartment?}, and tries to convince her that he did not betray her. Gregg was tormented because Gina believes he is capable of such an atrocity.
After saving his life, Gregg mentored a young Zero Unit Team member, Tommy, who is helping him with inside information. Tommy arranges a meeting for the man Gregg suspects is the mole, his commander, Colonel Frank Blair. Bruhns is so clever creating this scene in which Blair cannot just pull his gun and arrest Gregg on the spot.
Bruhns has Gina turn to Gregg in a half-awake state to facilitate their reunion. Although it was disappointing that Gregg and Gina could not have the same kind of hot monkey sex that they engaged in back in Book One ( Shoot To Thrill ), she did manage to titillate readers with heated, spicy, yet emotionally-driven love scenes between these strong protagonists.
Gina eventually realizes that Gregg did not betray her and joins him in his search for the traitor. Colonel Blair had revealed that someone on Capitol Hill could be the traitor, so he and Gina head to Washington, D.C. and stay at (of course) Watergate Hotel. Gregg's amazing control and aloofness are demonstrated when he and Gina accidentally end up joining the STORM team.
Romance Two: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
This book felt more like it should be Alex and Rebel's story. Alex has joined the STORM team and has a flashback of his capture during his first assignment (protecting Dr. Cappozi). When Alex balks at being reassigned to work with the FBI and Coast Guard to investigate a suspect yacht in Chesapeake Bay, Bobby Lee tells Alex he shouldn't be on the team if they have to tip-toe around him.
There were quite a few instances in which Bobby Lee pulled no punches with Alex; mostly in telling him to get his love life in order so he wouldn't sabotage the operation. It was actually kind of humorous that Alex was constantly thinking things like "does the whole team know how I feel about Rebel?" And to borrow from Bruhns writing style, "well, duh!"
Rebel gets her first blazing, "it's about time" kiss from Alex aboard the Coast Guard's response boat right after she prevents the boarding team from getting blow to pieces by the bomb planted on Allah's Paradise>. Alex and Rebel's happily-ever-after is hampered by each protagonist. First, in a totally confusing about-face, Rebel is no longer sure she wants to pursue a relationship with the man she has loved the last five years. Second, would have to be a man to understand why Alex has been keeping himself away from the woman we all know he has been wanting for at least the past two years. He believes his reasons are valid, but romance readers everywhere are surely thinking "love (and Rebel) doesn't care about that."
Naturally, Alex and Rebel must spend time together as they continue their investigation of the sunken yacht. As expected, they finally make soul-searing, hot, magically intense love. Bruhns does know how to write spicy, engrossing love scenes. Thankfully, that is not the only time Alex and Rebel make heated, "can't keep my hands off you" love. Bruhns did a great job of validating the reasons Alex and Rebel were reluctant to pursue a future together, but sometimes it felt too contrived, too unrealistic for two people who have been in unrequited love with the other for so long. Just wish that they hadn't had so many obstacles to overcome in their already angst-ridden relationship.
Romance Three: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
D.C. Metro Police Detective Sarah McPhee is introduced as a world-wise woman investigating the death of a woman who has ties to terrorists. And, surprise, surprise, hunky, sexy, unrelentingly determined FBI Special Agent Wade Montana shows up to charm information from her. Found it curious that Wade was able to keep his regular job with the amount of time he spends on this unofficial investigation.
Wade came across as so sleazy. (Probably because he was never given a point of view thought during the entire three-book series.) A man who used his "women fall at my feet" good looks and charm to became involved in these "Gina Cappozi" investigations. During the whole "let me be part of your investigation" scenarios, it was a relief whenever smart, "I know what you're up to" Sarah would not succumb to Wade's charm. Thought Bruhns metaphors about Sarah's internal red flags flipping back and forth whenever Wade attempts to use sex to gain information was priceless.
Even more surprising, Wade and Sarah never make love. But Sarah does find out that Wade is an amazing kisser. And she finds out that he doesn't like STORM Corp.'s involvement with her investigation. Bruhns is nothing, if not imaginative, in keeping Wade involved with a woman and involved in the story of the search for the traitor.
A Kiss To Kill is a wonderful finale to The Passion For Danger Trilogy. It is a book that keeps the readers attention from the moment one reads the first page until the final sentence. It is not, however, a stand-alone read. There is just too much background information in the previous two books. In that regard, it would be difficult to recommend this book as a must-read without recommending the entire trilogy. Readers who like Suzanne Brockmann and Tara Janzen will really like this trilogy.
Note: Triple romances leave room for undeveloped plots that result is questions like: {1} Why did Helena (all the sudden) change her mind about marrying Alex? {2} What are details of incident that resulted in Sarah not making Lieutenant? {3} How did Wade manage to keep his job -- he spent so much time working on a case not assigned to him? {4} What made the villain turn traitor? {5} What made the villain choose Gregg to be the fall guy?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2022
Bottomline: Such a fun read! But should be read in order for the series.
I read this out of order for the series and loved it. However, I can tell it should be read in order of the series. As an unusual attribute, the book has several love stories going on at once. You follow several different couples all working towards their HEA. Very steamy. A plus I never thought of was you get several different heroes and different kinds of sexy scenes, because the book is tracking more than one couple. I highly recommend.
I read this out of order for the series and loved it. However, I can tell it should be read in order of the series. As an unusual attribute, the book has several love stories going on at once. You follow several different couples all working towards their HEA. Very steamy. A plus I never thought of was you get several different heroes and different kinds of sexy scenes, because the book is tracking more than one couple. I highly recommend.
August 23, 2017
3.75 stars
An action-packed suspense with a side of second chance romance. Involved 2 or 3 different couples, each with their side stories along with the main plot of finding out the true villain.
An action-packed suspense with a side of second chance romance. Involved 2 or 3 different couples, each with their side stories along with the main plot of finding out the true villain.
December 16, 2020
so sexistisch, aber eine bessere Story als der zweite Teil.
May 15, 2010
In the previous book - "If Looks Could Kill" - side characters Gina Cappozi and captain Gregg van Halen engaged in a hot relationship until the day he betrayed her. He left her to be physically and mentally tortured by terrorists for the next eight months and never looked back. Now they are the main characters and Gina is out for revenge. They cross paths again and realize not all is over between them. Besides her planning to kill Gregg, sticking close and Gregg making sure to keep his eyes on Gina, this book is an onslaught of revelations.
I was really surprised at what he did to Gina so I was anticipating it to be good. Being a black ops Captain, Gregg must keep back emotions that could jeopardize the mission even at the cost of the woman he cares for. We get the real reason why he did what he did, but the first parts of the book was frustrating. In fact, there was a lot of things going on, including sideplots and another couple. We keep switching back forth so it didn't work well with me. When Gina and Gregg quickly reunite, there lots of snarling, verbal jabs, mistrust and apparently still sexual tension. Gina is also on a mission and the sideplot in the last book is expanded and continued.
Their relationship just had a little heat to be rekindled. I was interested because of the way they left things, but it fell flat. Gina torn, emotionally and physically made me want to smack her a few times and I guess Gregg was okay. Like I said, others are thrown in the mix that it was too much.
Alex and Rebel somehow managed to get a nice tie for their end as they are the side couple. While I liked them, all their drama just weighed down the book. Nina Bruhns is one of the best romance/suspense writers, but "A Kiss to Kill" was just disappointing.
I was really surprised at what he did to Gina so I was anticipating it to be good. Being a black ops Captain, Gregg must keep back emotions that could jeopardize the mission even at the cost of the woman he cares for. We get the real reason why he did what he did, but the first parts of the book was frustrating. In fact, there was a lot of things going on, including sideplots and another couple. We keep switching back forth so it didn't work well with me. When Gina and Gregg quickly reunite, there lots of snarling, verbal jabs, mistrust and apparently still sexual tension. Gina is also on a mission and the sideplot in the last book is expanded and continued.
Their relationship just had a little heat to be rekindled. I was interested because of the way they left things, but it fell flat. Gina torn, emotionally and physically made me want to smack her a few times and I guess Gregg was okay. Like I said, others are thrown in the mix that it was too much.
Alex and Rebel somehow managed to get a nice tie for their end as they are the side couple. While I liked them, all their drama just weighed down the book. Nina Bruhns is one of the best romance/suspense writers, but "A Kiss to Kill" was just disappointing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews