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Under Fire #1
Under Fire
Coast Guard helicopter pilot Olivia Carver is on a very personal mission. Her twin brother, an undercover officer, was murdered by a drug cartel and she won't stop until she finds the man responsible for his death.
In the course of her own investigation, Olivia meets informant Rico Cortes. He's mysterious and sexy and despite her reservations, the two share a night of passion. But Rico turns out to be more than a one-night stand. He's a DEA agent, deep undercover in Miami's drug world, and possibly the one man who can help Olivia find the justice she seeks.
When Rico realizes his cover is blown, he isn't sure whether it was someone in the cartel or an inside agent. Olivia is the only one he can trust and together they venture on a dangerous, rogue mission to infiltrate a drug lord's inner circle with Olivia as bait.
86,000 words
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2011
5 people are currently reading
1020 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 24, 2016
This was such a great find!
This is the first book I've read by Rita Henuber, and I'll defiantly be looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
I loved the intensity of this book. Right from the beginning it was a non-stop roller-coaster ride, with lots of action, suspense, and of course chemistry.
The two main characters were both strong, intelligent, dedicated, and loyal people.
Olivia (the female lead) is an officer and helicopter pilot in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is in search of the killer of her twin brother who was an undercover police officer in the Miami Police Force.
Rico (the male lead) is a DEA Agent under deep cover trying to bring down the Cartel that has been killing undercover agents, and stop the flow of drugs into the U.S. He has been under for 2 years and is trying to bring this mission to an end.
Along with trying to bring justice to the fallen agents, Olivia and Rico must also try and find the leak in the Agencies to prevent their cover from being blown, and prevent other under-cover agents from being murdered.
The story-line, writing, characters are amazing. The love scenes between Olivia and Rico are hot and sexy.
I really enjoyed this read, and highly recommend it.
This is the first book I've read by Rita Henuber, and I'll defiantly be looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
I loved the intensity of this book. Right from the beginning it was a non-stop roller-coaster ride, with lots of action, suspense, and of course chemistry.
The two main characters were both strong, intelligent, dedicated, and loyal people.
Olivia (the female lead) is an officer and helicopter pilot in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is in search of the killer of her twin brother who was an undercover police officer in the Miami Police Force.
Rico (the male lead) is a DEA Agent under deep cover trying to bring down the Cartel that has been killing undercover agents, and stop the flow of drugs into the U.S. He has been under for 2 years and is trying to bring this mission to an end.
Along with trying to bring justice to the fallen agents, Olivia and Rico must also try and find the leak in the Agencies to prevent their cover from being blown, and prevent other under-cover agents from being murdered.
The story-line, writing, characters are amazing. The love scenes between Olivia and Rico are hot and sexy.
I really enjoyed this read, and highly recommend it.
September 18, 2012
Rating 3.5 stars
You know you read about books the heroine is supposed to be kick-ass? Well Olivia is the most kick-ass HEROINE ever, she never backs down, fights dirty and can beat the hero too. I kind of felt she was the hero of the book, she needs no-man protecting her and doesn't apologize for her choices. Was she foolish in parts? Hell yes, but she was blinded by the loss of her twin brother and the need for revenge so I might find a little forgiveness for her.
The hero has been undercover for years and working on her brother's case. The book is pretty sexy.
You know you read about books the heroine is supposed to be kick-ass? Well Olivia is the most kick-ass HEROINE ever, she never backs down, fights dirty and can beat the hero too. I kind of felt she was the hero of the book, she needs no-man protecting her and doesn't apologize for her choices. Was she foolish in parts? Hell yes, but she was blinded by the loss of her twin brother and the need for revenge so I might find a little forgiveness for her.
The hero has been undercover for years and working on her brother's case. The book is pretty sexy.
March 9, 2012
Olivia holds the rank of Lieutenant Commander in the coast guard and is a helicopter pilot trying to stop narcotics heading towards US soil. Her twin brother Danny was an undercover DEA agent and was brutally murdered two years previously and despite pressure she believes that not enough is being done to track down and bring the murderers to justice. Fortunately her job gives her access to information that she wouldn't normally have and is now set upon working the case herself and tracking them down. Rico Cortes is an undercover DEA agent who has been working on the case for two years and Olivia's snooping is damaging that case and putting him in jeopardy so he decides to pretend to have information for her, meet and scare her off but of course he was not ready for the impact she would have on him.
Usually in the romance genre the male is the dominant character in the story but not in this case, both were really strong and tough and quite capable on their own. Olivia is not only admired and respected in her career but had previously under took special training in self defence and use of weapons and is more than capable of defending herself should the need arise. Some readers may have found Olivia too tough and would have preferred Rico to take the lead but for me this is what I liked and I thought that Olivia's character is what made the book stand out.
The only thing I didn't like was the ending, for me it ended too abruptly. I felt a little cheated as I wanted to read about them being together as a couple. Yes I know that they love each other and will be together but that is not the same as reading about it - it would have been better with an epilogue. Having said that I still loved this book and couldn't mark it down because of that and I gave it 5/5 stars.
I will definitely be on the lookout for any new titles from Rita Henuber.
ARC provided by Carina Press via Netgalley
Usually in the romance genre the male is the dominant character in the story but not in this case, both were really strong and tough and quite capable on their own. Olivia is not only admired and respected in her career but had previously under took special training in self defence and use of weapons and is more than capable of defending herself should the need arise. Some readers may have found Olivia too tough and would have preferred Rico to take the lead but for me this is what I liked and I thought that Olivia's character is what made the book stand out.
The only thing I didn't like was the ending, for me it ended too abruptly. I felt a little cheated as I wanted to read about them being together as a couple. Yes I know that they love each other and will be together but that is not the same as reading about it - it would have been better with an epilogue. Having said that I still loved this book and couldn't mark it down because of that and I gave it 5/5 stars.
I will definitely be on the lookout for any new titles from Rita Henuber.
ARC provided by Carina Press via Netgalley
October 22, 2011
In her debut book, Rita Henuber has written one of the best romantic suspense stories I've ever had the pleasure to read. Quality writing on every front. Highly intense characters who come to life on every page in this action-packed story set in Miami's drug world.
(Full review to follow.)
(Full review to follow.)
Read
March 12, 2013DNF - so not happening for me. :(
August 24, 2011
I am a little bit late with my review of Under Fire by Rita Henuber. Work has been a bit crazy and with other obligations taking up my precious reading time, I have been a bit swamped so to speak. But I am a girl who always believes in the "better late than never" adage and though my review is a trifle bit late in coming, it comes with all good tidings and recommendations for fans of the genre to give this one a try!
Rico Cortes is a DEA agent who has been working deep undercover in the midst of Miami's drug world. With a past that has put him on a course to do his bit to rid his country of drugs, Rico is at the verge of wondering who the real Rico is as his job pulls him deeper into a world filled with treachery and deceit.
Coast Guard Lt. Commander Olivia Carver is one determined woman, whose twin brother Danny was murdered whilst working undercover in the Miami drug scene. Her vow to avenge the death of her twin is one that constantly rings through her very soul and the only thing that stops her from quitting her job to embark on a full fledged search for the killer is the fact that her position brings her intel that she otherwise would not have access to.
When Olivia and Rico's worlds collide, a meeting machinated by Rico in order to throw Olivia off the course of Rico's investigation, the one thing neither counts on is the volatile sexual need that practically wipes every other thought from their minds. A one night stand that leaves both wanting more takes a darker turn when Rico is forced to make use of Olivia in their joint quest to bring their mutual enemy to justice - or wipe him off the face of the Earth once and for all!
Under Fire is an appropriate title for a book which is filled with action of the heart pounding variety that never lets up. The constant kick-ass action that is always a part of this story held my undivided attention as I sped through the pages. With a thrilling chase that kickstarts the story sets the tone for the whole novel as Olivia and Rico pulls out all the stops to lure one of the worst drug lords in their country to his ultimate demise. I loved the fact that Rita Henuber doesn't pull any punches and delivered that realistic edge to the action, not doing a complete 360 degree turnabout at the end where forgiveness and doing the right thing takes precedence over the goal that had been set at the beginning.
The passion that ignites between Olivia and Rico is one to be savored in the story. Though the scenes aren't explicitly detailed each and every single time, Rita does know how to keep the adrenaline pumping with the constant arcs of awareness that leaps forth between Olivia and Rico. I loved the heat and sultriness of the first encounter between them and I've just got one word for Rico - HOT!
For me, though Olivia tended to be the centrepoint of the story as it unfolded, Rico's character turned out to be the most endearing one. His painful past when it comes to light made me want to wrap my arms around him and never let go. As the shades of his undercover persona is left behind bit by bit, there emerges a man that wants above all to do the right thing and to find that one person in the world who would love him completely, his darkness and all.
Olivia makes for one kick-ass chick, whose sheer determination to find her twin brother's killer obliterates everything else in her life - even her burgoening feelings towards Rico. I think it was because of that reason that I couldn't completely warm up to Olivia's character towards the end though she makes you want to learn one of those few dangerous manueuvers of your own to dish out every now and then.
The humor that is so intrisically woven together in a story that practically vibrates with adrenaline overload turned out to be one of the reasons I kept coming back for more of Olivia and Rico. I kept going LOL even during those tense moments fraught with either danger or sexual tension that just somehow seemed to fit right in making this romantic suspense a well balanced one.
One of my peeves with the book turned out to be how things ended in the story. I was clamoring so bad for an epilogue that would depict Olivia and Rico as a couple, maybe a couple of years in the future, both settled in and adjusting to life at a different pace than the ones they have led up till and throughout the story. The way how things ended is the only reason that prevented me from giving this one a whopping 5-stars though Under Fire still makes for an awesome read!
Recommended for those who love their heroines to be of the kick-ass variety, their heroes to be ultra sexy and for the story to practically burst at the seams from the continuous stream of non-stop action!
My quotes are included below my review!
Rating=4/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
Rico Cortes is a DEA agent who has been working deep undercover in the midst of Miami's drug world. With a past that has put him on a course to do his bit to rid his country of drugs, Rico is at the verge of wondering who the real Rico is as his job pulls him deeper into a world filled with treachery and deceit.
Coast Guard Lt. Commander Olivia Carver is one determined woman, whose twin brother Danny was murdered whilst working undercover in the Miami drug scene. Her vow to avenge the death of her twin is one that constantly rings through her very soul and the only thing that stops her from quitting her job to embark on a full fledged search for the killer is the fact that her position brings her intel that she otherwise would not have access to.
When Olivia and Rico's worlds collide, a meeting machinated by Rico in order to throw Olivia off the course of Rico's investigation, the one thing neither counts on is the volatile sexual need that practically wipes every other thought from their minds. A one night stand that leaves both wanting more takes a darker turn when Rico is forced to make use of Olivia in their joint quest to bring their mutual enemy to justice - or wipe him off the face of the Earth once and for all!
Under Fire is an appropriate title for a book which is filled with action of the heart pounding variety that never lets up. The constant kick-ass action that is always a part of this story held my undivided attention as I sped through the pages. With a thrilling chase that kickstarts the story sets the tone for the whole novel as Olivia and Rico pulls out all the stops to lure one of the worst drug lords in their country to his ultimate demise. I loved the fact that Rita Henuber doesn't pull any punches and delivered that realistic edge to the action, not doing a complete 360 degree turnabout at the end where forgiveness and doing the right thing takes precedence over the goal that had been set at the beginning.
The passion that ignites between Olivia and Rico is one to be savored in the story. Though the scenes aren't explicitly detailed each and every single time, Rita does know how to keep the adrenaline pumping with the constant arcs of awareness that leaps forth between Olivia and Rico. I loved the heat and sultriness of the first encounter between them and I've just got one word for Rico - HOT!
For me, though Olivia tended to be the centrepoint of the story as it unfolded, Rico's character turned out to be the most endearing one. His painful past when it comes to light made me want to wrap my arms around him and never let go. As the shades of his undercover persona is left behind bit by bit, there emerges a man that wants above all to do the right thing and to find that one person in the world who would love him completely, his darkness and all.
Olivia makes for one kick-ass chick, whose sheer determination to find her twin brother's killer obliterates everything else in her life - even her burgoening feelings towards Rico. I think it was because of that reason that I couldn't completely warm up to Olivia's character towards the end though she makes you want to learn one of those few dangerous manueuvers of your own to dish out every now and then.
The humor that is so intrisically woven together in a story that practically vibrates with adrenaline overload turned out to be one of the reasons I kept coming back for more of Olivia and Rico. I kept going LOL even during those tense moments fraught with either danger or sexual tension that just somehow seemed to fit right in making this romantic suspense a well balanced one.
One of my peeves with the book turned out to be how things ended in the story. I was clamoring so bad for an epilogue that would depict Olivia and Rico as a couple, maybe a couple of years in the future, both settled in and adjusting to life at a different pace than the ones they have led up till and throughout the story. The way how things ended is the only reason that prevented me from giving this one a whopping 5-stars though Under Fire still makes for an awesome read!
Recommended for those who love their heroines to be of the kick-ass variety, their heroes to be ultra sexy and for the story to practically burst at the seams from the continuous stream of non-stop action!
My quotes are included below my review!
Rating=4/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
August 21, 2011
3.5 Stars
Rita Henuber delivers a smart, sexy and dangerous tale with Under Fire!
Commander Olivia Carver is a top notch helo pilot for the US Coast Guard but when the authorities fail to take down her twin brother’s murderer she heads to Miami looking for answers herself. There she meets a sexy local, Rico Cortes. Having a bit of a dry year and feeling an instant attraction to the sexy and funny dark haired stranger, Olivia ends up spending the night in his apartment. When she returns to her assignment though, taking down a drug runner off the coast she finds out the Rico is really an undercover DEA agent and shit literally hits the fan. With a traitor in their midst Rico and Olivia decide to go in on their own to take the drug cartel down and find the bad cop, who is also responsible for her brother’s death.
Olivia was one kick ass heroine in Under Fire! Referred to as the ‘Poster Girl” for the USCG she is beautiful and capable. Trained for deadly combat in the air and on the ground she knows how to take care of herself but is not lacking with a sensitive female side that shines through every now and then, at the best moments I must add. Her relationship with Rico was scorching with sexy dancing, sizzling innuendos and scorching love scenes I couldn’t get enough of these two. Rico himself was hot, dangerous and oh so swoon worthy. A great match for Olivia both physically and mentally.
The plot was well thought out, detailed and realistic; you can tell the author really knows her stuff with the military and government agencies. At times it got a bit too detailed and went over my head but this didn’t distract from the overall story line. Action packed and fast moving I read this in one sitting. There were several scenes that seemed to be cut short though, missing out on a few important points I felt; I’m not sure if this is because what I read was an ARC or if it will be in the final product.
The one thing that brought this down a full point for me though was the ending. It felt abrupt, unfinished and lacked closure. I have no idea if these two are going to make it together or even if one will survive. A real disappointment for me and extremely frustrating in what would of otherwise been a superb read.
Awesome scene:
"What's it going to take to get you to dance with me?"
She crooked her index finger and motioned him to come closer. "A million in your bank account and seven inches in your pants."
Without missing a beat he replied, "The million I have, but even for a woman as beautiful as you, I won't cut off three inches."
Rita Henuber delivers a smart, sexy and dangerous tale with Under Fire!
Commander Olivia Carver is a top notch helo pilot for the US Coast Guard but when the authorities fail to take down her twin brother’s murderer she heads to Miami looking for answers herself. There she meets a sexy local, Rico Cortes. Having a bit of a dry year and feeling an instant attraction to the sexy and funny dark haired stranger, Olivia ends up spending the night in his apartment. When she returns to her assignment though, taking down a drug runner off the coast she finds out the Rico is really an undercover DEA agent and shit literally hits the fan. With a traitor in their midst Rico and Olivia decide to go in on their own to take the drug cartel down and find the bad cop, who is also responsible for her brother’s death.
Olivia was one kick ass heroine in Under Fire! Referred to as the ‘Poster Girl” for the USCG she is beautiful and capable. Trained for deadly combat in the air and on the ground she knows how to take care of herself but is not lacking with a sensitive female side that shines through every now and then, at the best moments I must add. Her relationship with Rico was scorching with sexy dancing, sizzling innuendos and scorching love scenes I couldn’t get enough of these two. Rico himself was hot, dangerous and oh so swoon worthy. A great match for Olivia both physically and mentally.
The plot was well thought out, detailed and realistic; you can tell the author really knows her stuff with the military and government agencies. At times it got a bit too detailed and went over my head but this didn’t distract from the overall story line. Action packed and fast moving I read this in one sitting. There were several scenes that seemed to be cut short though, missing out on a few important points I felt; I’m not sure if this is because what I read was an ARC or if it will be in the final product.
The one thing that brought this down a full point for me though was the ending. It felt abrupt, unfinished and lacked closure. I have no idea if these two are going to make it together or even if one will survive. A real disappointment for me and extremely frustrating in what would of otherwise been a superb read.
Awesome scene:
"What's it going to take to get you to dance with me?"
She crooked her index finger and motioned him to come closer. "A million in your bank account and seven inches in your pants."
Without missing a beat he replied, "The million I have, but even for a woman as beautiful as you, I won't cut off three inches."
August 8, 2011
This book is A-W-E-S-O-M-E!
Grade A Romantic Suspense
Under Fire by Rita Henuber was a fast paced, no holds bared, in your face, Romantic Suspense novel with guts. For once, the kick ass lead was FEMALE.
Meet Commander Olivia Carver. Poster girl for the Coast Guard, she drives a helo like she riders her men--fast,dirty and a little mean. She has a spine of steel, granite nerves and an icy calm when in danger. Plain and simple? Olivia is a major badass.
Our hero, Rico Cotez is an undercover DEA agent working on taking down a major drug cartel. Rico is a chameleon. Able to adapt and alter his appearance at will, he is a master of disguise. Working for Salvo ~ The Drug Boss ~ Rico is made as DEA and shit hits the fan quickly.
After her twin {who was undercover} brother is murdered, Olivia will stop at nothing to bring his killers to justice. Thinking she is meeting an informant she takes to a club, and meets Rico. She doesn't know who he is, but he knows her. There is an instant chemistry and they freaking SIZZLE off the pages. They spend a hot night between the sheets, and Olivia leaves during the night. None the wiser.
During an OP for a drug smuggling capture, Commander Olivia notices they are about to be ambushed and soon her gunner is hurling bullets at the go boats when one explodes. Sending bodies into the water. Running on gas fumes, her long time friend jumps in to find any survivors. Locating one, he gives the all clear and waits for the next helo to arrive.
Turns out the survivor was Rico. When Olivia sees him she freaks. (Internally of course)
Now on the run, Rico contacts Olivia, they leave together, and they decide to bring down the bad guys themselves, because there is obviously an agency/company person selling info to Salvo--if not working for--salvo and the crime organization. Not knowing who to trust, they decide to gather evidence and bring him to justice.
The book was really well done. Well written, well paced, interesting, and Rita Henuber obviously knows her way around the Military and procedures and Helo's.
I have one issue. There is no epilogue and this book really needed one. I hope there is something planned for the future, I would like to know a few things...Care to email me some more info Ms Henuber LOL
Grade A Romantic Suspense
Under Fire by Rita Henuber was a fast paced, no holds bared, in your face, Romantic Suspense novel with guts. For once, the kick ass lead was FEMALE.
Meet Commander Olivia Carver. Poster girl for the Coast Guard, she drives a helo like she riders her men--fast,dirty and a little mean. She has a spine of steel, granite nerves and an icy calm when in danger. Plain and simple? Olivia is a major badass.
Our hero, Rico Cotez is an undercover DEA agent working on taking down a major drug cartel. Rico is a chameleon. Able to adapt and alter his appearance at will, he is a master of disguise. Working for Salvo ~ The Drug Boss ~ Rico is made as DEA and shit hits the fan quickly.
After her twin {who was undercover} brother is murdered, Olivia will stop at nothing to bring his killers to justice. Thinking she is meeting an informant she takes to a club, and meets Rico. She doesn't know who he is, but he knows her. There is an instant chemistry and they freaking SIZZLE off the pages. They spend a hot night between the sheets, and Olivia leaves during the night. None the wiser.
During an OP for a drug smuggling capture, Commander Olivia notices they are about to be ambushed and soon her gunner is hurling bullets at the go boats when one explodes. Sending bodies into the water. Running on gas fumes, her long time friend jumps in to find any survivors. Locating one, he gives the all clear and waits for the next helo to arrive.
Turns out the survivor was Rico. When Olivia sees him she freaks. (Internally of course)
Now on the run, Rico contacts Olivia, they leave together, and they decide to bring down the bad guys themselves, because there is obviously an agency/company person selling info to Salvo--if not working for--salvo and the crime organization. Not knowing who to trust, they decide to gather evidence and bring him to justice.
The book was really well done. Well written, well paced, interesting, and Rita Henuber obviously knows her way around the Military and procedures and Helo's.
I have one issue. There is no epilogue and this book really needed one. I hope there is something planned for the future, I would like to know a few things...Care to email me some more info Ms Henuber LOL
August 7, 2012
4.5 stars
Olivia Carter
Rico Cortez
This book surprised me. I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. I like books that feature smart, competent, courageous, strong, skilled women as lead characters. You can find them in abundance in paranormal and in science fiction but less so in military stories. Often times women in these books have some sort of weakness or fatal flaw that require the male lead to rescue them or they have been brainwashed to become sociopathic assassins. Not in this case. Coast Guard Commander Olivia Carter is a kick-ass, spunky, controlled and smart helicopter pilot who is determined to find the killer of her twin brother, a cop who is killed in the line of duty while undercover investigating a major drug kingpin. Olivia meets Rico Cortez as an informant who might help her get information on her brothers death. What she doesn't know at the time is that he's also an undercover DEA agent. When his cover is blown, they engage in an off-the-books ops that has consequences for both of them.
Things that had me smiling;
* Their initial meeting is flirty and scorching hot
* Although, Rico is as alpha as the best of them, he also has a lot of "sweet" in him. His "sweet" is tender
* Olivia's determination- she decided she wanted to be a pilot as a kid and let nothing get in her way; in preparation of applying for an elite flying unit, she enrolled herself in a month-long mercenary course to learn how to employ aggressive flying techniques
* Thank God Olivia does NOT have any TSTL moments and she darn well holds her own in the fight scenes.
* There is a ton of hold-your-breath action!
* Finally, there are lots of nice little surprises along the way.
Things that left me thinking:
* This could definitely be the start of a series. I hope the author has more planned. Whether we follow the stories of some of the other characters, Hunter perhaps, or learn more about Olivia and Rico this story screams for MORE!
In my opinion it is not easy to balance to alpha characters in a Team Commando/Team Lawman story. Rita Henuber does with ease and finesse resulting in a heart-satisfying read.
Olivia Carter
Rico Cortez
This book surprised me. I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. I like books that feature smart, competent, courageous, strong, skilled women as lead characters. You can find them in abundance in paranormal and in science fiction but less so in military stories. Often times women in these books have some sort of weakness or fatal flaw that require the male lead to rescue them or they have been brainwashed to become sociopathic assassins. Not in this case. Coast Guard Commander Olivia Carter is a kick-ass, spunky, controlled and smart helicopter pilot who is determined to find the killer of her twin brother, a cop who is killed in the line of duty while undercover investigating a major drug kingpin. Olivia meets Rico Cortez as an informant who might help her get information on her brothers death. What she doesn't know at the time is that he's also an undercover DEA agent. When his cover is blown, they engage in an off-the-books ops that has consequences for both of them.
Things that had me smiling;
* Their initial meeting is flirty and scorching hot
* Although, Rico is as alpha as the best of them, he also has a lot of "sweet" in him. His "sweet" is tender
* Olivia's determination- she decided she wanted to be a pilot as a kid and let nothing get in her way; in preparation of applying for an elite flying unit, she enrolled herself in a month-long mercenary course to learn how to employ aggressive flying techniques
* Thank God Olivia does NOT have any TSTL moments and she darn well holds her own in the fight scenes.
* There is a ton of hold-your-breath action!
* Finally, there are lots of nice little surprises along the way.
Things that left me thinking:
* This could definitely be the start of a series. I hope the author has more planned. Whether we follow the stories of some of the other characters, Hunter perhaps, or learn more about Olivia and Rico this story screams for MORE!
In my opinion it is not easy to balance to alpha characters in a Team Commando/Team Lawman story. Rita Henuber does with ease and finesse resulting in a heart-satisfying read.
July 27, 2011
This is a very exciting book full of nonstop action, great sex, and a tough Coast Guard Helo flying chick!
Olivia has a top notch career with the USCG and has earned a lot of respect, but she's willing to throw it all away to avenge her twin brother's death. He was an undercover killed by drug dealers. Someone gave him up. Olivia is bound and determined to find out who.
Thus, she meets Rico. Rico is an undercover as well and they are both after the same people, but Rico doesn't really want a family member getting in his way. That's before he realizes how very persistent Olivia is.
For full review, please click on the link:
http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2011/...
Olivia has a top notch career with the USCG and has earned a lot of respect, but she's willing to throw it all away to avenge her twin brother's death. He was an undercover killed by drug dealers. Someone gave him up. Olivia is bound and determined to find out who.
Thus, she meets Rico. Rico is an undercover as well and they are both after the same people, but Rico doesn't really want a family member getting in his way. That's before he realizes how very persistent Olivia is.
For full review, please click on the link:
http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2011/...
November 28, 2013
Review from Backchatting Books
Olivia Carver is a tough-as-nails Coast Guard helicopter pilot who gets her kicks catching drug smugglers. Her twin brother Danny, an undercover cop, was murdered and she is determined to find out who was responsible. Olivia’s investigation catches the eye of undercover DEA agent Rico Cortez and he plans to warn her off but ends up in bed with her instead. When his cover is blown, they decide to take down the drug cartel themselves with Olivia posing as a drug buyer.
Olivia in many ways fulfilled the role of the typical alpha male in this romantic suspense novel given her intense focus and the fact she has been trained by specialists to take down baddies. She doesn’t need a man to rescue her because she is basically a female Chuck Norris and the body count towards the end of the book just kept rising. The time when she was trying to seduce our baddie without actually sleeping with him was probably the least convincing just because she was so out of her comfort zone. I did like her interactions with her team however and the extra layers to her character that came from her fractious relationship with her mother.
Rico (actually Declan O’Conner) is more of a beta hero than an alpha but that is okay as having Olivia and Rico duke it out would have got in the way of the story. He has been an undercover agent for years and his latest assignment is one of his toughest. Four undercover officers investigating a drug lord have already been murdered and Rico knows when his cover is blown that he really should check in with his handler. Instead, he persuades Olivia to help him get to Miami and stop the drug lord once and for all. There is a sweetness to Danny that isn’t always evident when he is pretending to be Rico and I really enjoyed it.
The couple fall into bed almost immediately when Rico pretends to be an informant with information on who killed Olivia’s brother. When they meet again, it takes Rico a bit longer than Olivia to get past the awkward phase. She is so driven that she won’t let anything come between her and her brother’s killer. The love scenes (of which there are plenty) are suitably smexy.
My biggest complaint would have to be that it was pretty amateurish to spill their entire plan to a sixteen year old homeless boy, Mouse, and then involve him in their operation. Our DEA agent even handed over the keys to his Ducati to Mouse and gave him the security combination for his secret apartment. Really? On the other hand, the action sequences were very well plotted and there were some really tense moments when Olivia was manoeuvring her helicopter and fighting on board the ship. The ending was rather abrupt especially after a significant revelation concerning Olivia and I think this could have been teased out a little more.
I zipped through the action scenes and enjoyed the roller coaster Henuber provided.
Olivia Carver is a tough-as-nails Coast Guard helicopter pilot who gets her kicks catching drug smugglers. Her twin brother Danny, an undercover cop, was murdered and she is determined to find out who was responsible. Olivia’s investigation catches the eye of undercover DEA agent Rico Cortez and he plans to warn her off but ends up in bed with her instead. When his cover is blown, they decide to take down the drug cartel themselves with Olivia posing as a drug buyer.
Olivia in many ways fulfilled the role of the typical alpha male in this romantic suspense novel given her intense focus and the fact she has been trained by specialists to take down baddies. She doesn’t need a man to rescue her because she is basically a female Chuck Norris and the body count towards the end of the book just kept rising. The time when she was trying to seduce our baddie without actually sleeping with him was probably the least convincing just because she was so out of her comfort zone. I did like her interactions with her team however and the extra layers to her character that came from her fractious relationship with her mother.
Rico (actually Declan O’Conner) is more of a beta hero than an alpha but that is okay as having Olivia and Rico duke it out would have got in the way of the story. He has been an undercover agent for years and his latest assignment is one of his toughest. Four undercover officers investigating a drug lord have already been murdered and Rico knows when his cover is blown that he really should check in with his handler. Instead, he persuades Olivia to help him get to Miami and stop the drug lord once and for all. There is a sweetness to Danny that isn’t always evident when he is pretending to be Rico and I really enjoyed it.
The couple fall into bed almost immediately when Rico pretends to be an informant with information on who killed Olivia’s brother. When they meet again, it takes Rico a bit longer than Olivia to get past the awkward phase. She is so driven that she won’t let anything come between her and her brother’s killer. The love scenes (of which there are plenty) are suitably smexy.
My biggest complaint would have to be that it was pretty amateurish to spill their entire plan to a sixteen year old homeless boy, Mouse, and then involve him in their operation. Our DEA agent even handed over the keys to his Ducati to Mouse and gave him the security combination for his secret apartment. Really? On the other hand, the action sequences were very well plotted and there were some really tense moments when Olivia was manoeuvring her helicopter and fighting on board the ship. The ending was rather abrupt especially after a significant revelation concerning Olivia and I think this could have been teased out a little more.
I zipped through the action scenes and enjoyed the roller coaster Henuber provided.
November 3, 2011
This was really good. It stayed with me after I finished. I loved the author's style, she had just the right amount of tension and action that had me plowing through to the wee hours. Once the story started to climax, I could not set it down. Odd thing was, I wouldn't consider Rico's character totally alpha (and I love my alpha men) because time and time again he ends up on his back and mostly from Olivia. Then you have Olivia's character just on the boarder of being too strong. But Rita pulled it together well and it worked great. It was fast paced, great level of steam, even though Rico seemed to get worn out and throw in the towel long before Olivia which I found to be a clever bit of hidden humor. The action scenes are vivid and well written so you can see it play out in your head.I absolutely loved how Olivia got even for her twin. The only thing I think could have been better was the very end because despite myself I kept waiting for Rico to surface as the ultimate hero and save the day and Olivia or at least have a bit more drama him needing to see her before he leaves. It kind of ended just a tad to easily fell into "all better" without enough nail biting for me. I would definitely recommend for this genre and will absolutely read more from this author.
December 4, 2012
Could not finish. I didn’t care enough about the characters. I wasn’t curious.
The beginning had good action with Olivia as a coast guard helicopter pilot. She meets Rico and thinks he’s working for a drug cartel but later learns he’s an undercover DEA agent. They decide to do some undercover work on their own. I was past the halfway point in the book and they were still talking, planning, gathering supplies, and having sex. I was impatient for them to get started with the bad guys. So I skipped ahead to a scene where Olivia was undercover talking to a bad guy, and I realized I had no interest in continuing. So I skipped to the end, read the last half hour and was glad to be done.
The narrator Gabra Zackman had a pleasant voice, but she did not interpret well. One line was “Yes Maam he snapped.” The narrator read it in a calm manner. Also, she used a weird voice for some of the men.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 9 hrs and 42 mins. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words, but not often used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 6 in the first half of the book. Setting: current day Jacksonville and Miami, Florida. Book copyright: 2011. Genre: romantic suspense.
The beginning had good action with Olivia as a coast guard helicopter pilot. She meets Rico and thinks he’s working for a drug cartel but later learns he’s an undercover DEA agent. They decide to do some undercover work on their own. I was past the halfway point in the book and they were still talking, planning, gathering supplies, and having sex. I was impatient for them to get started with the bad guys. So I skipped ahead to a scene where Olivia was undercover talking to a bad guy, and I realized I had no interest in continuing. So I skipped to the end, read the last half hour and was glad to be done.
The narrator Gabra Zackman had a pleasant voice, but she did not interpret well. One line was “Yes Maam he snapped.” The narrator read it in a calm manner. Also, she used a weird voice for some of the men.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 9 hrs and 42 mins. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words, but not often used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 6 in the first half of the book. Setting: current day Jacksonville and Miami, Florida. Book copyright: 2011. Genre: romantic suspense.
May 31, 2016
I enjoyed some things about this book but had trouble with the romance of the book. Olivia is one kick ass female (In fact she might be just a little too tough/bullet proof). The biggest issue was the romance between Olivia and Rico just didn't work for me. It seemed to be all physical and I never got an emotional involvement between the two. I also didn't like the surprise about Olivia at the end . It also seemed to have a HFN ending vs a HEA as it didn't have a solid wrap up to me.
January 30, 2015
I really enjoyed this. I like seeing a woman in not only a position of authority but a complete bad arse. I adored Rico he's just gorgeous and sexy hehe the only thing I didn't enjoy was the abrupt ending. I would have liked to have read how they ended up :)
March 3, 2017
Freaking L-O-V-E-D it!
Olivia KICKS SOME SERIOUS ASS!!!!
Rico is hot and stuff, but right now I've a MAJOR girl-crush on Olivia.
Full review to come later!!!
Olivia KICKS SOME SERIOUS ASS!!!!
Rico is hot and stuff, but right now I've a MAJOR girl-crush on Olivia.
Full review to come later!!!
May 26, 2018
Three and half stars. I enjoyed the beginning and the end but almost stopped reading mid-point. I loved the kick-ass heroine and the action sequences but the romance was a dud. Rico just wasn't a vivid enough character to stand up to larger than life Olivia. Someone needs to tell the author that childhood sob stories aren't a substitute for an actual personality and having verbal diarrhea over the course of a couple of pages is not a complete relationship arc.
While I enjoyed the story, I never really felt anything for either main character. The author noted that Olivia wanted to find her twin brother's killer, but she never made me care about her mission. Similar, I never felt Rico's drive to finish his assignment. We never share in either of their internal anguish or their reasoning process beyond mechanically working through the tasks they need to complete to accomplish their goals.
There were so many missed opportunities like when Olivia blurts out the significance of a distinctive birthmark in what should have been a moving conversation with Rico, except the reader had no idea that Olivia possessed a birthmark until she choose to talk about it out of the blue. A more skillful author would have teased the reader and piqued their curiosity by having Olivia notice it while dressing or refuse previous questions from her lover about it so the eventual reveal would have been satisfying instead of feeling like it was just randomly pulled out the author's ass. The book could defiantly benefited from better editing.
While I enjoyed the story, I never really felt anything for either main character. The author noted that Olivia wanted to find her twin brother's killer, but she never made me care about her mission. Similar, I never felt Rico's drive to finish his assignment. We never share in either of their internal anguish or their reasoning process beyond mechanically working through the tasks they need to complete to accomplish their goals.
There were so many missed opportunities like when Olivia blurts out the significance of a distinctive birthmark in what should have been a moving conversation with Rico, except the reader had no idea that Olivia possessed a birthmark until she choose to talk about it out of the blue. A more skillful author would have teased the reader and piqued their curiosity by having Olivia notice it while dressing or refuse previous questions from her lover about it so the eventual reveal would have been satisfying instead of feeling like it was just randomly pulled out the author's ass. The book could defiantly benefited from better editing.
September 22, 2021
Under Fire is book one in the Under Fire series by Rita Henuber. After the death of her twin brother during an undercover operation, Coast Guard helicopter pilot Olivia Carver decided to start to investigate to find out what happened. During her investigation, Olivia meets informant Rico Cortes working deep undercover for DEA. However, when Rico's covert operation blown Olivia and Rico joined forces. The readers of Under Fire will continue to follow Olivia and Rico to find out what happens.
Under Fire is the first book I have read by Rita Henuber. I engage with Under Fire from the first page. I enjoyed the way Rita Henuber put the twists and turns in the story. Rita Henuber ensured that I kept on my toes throughout this book. Under Fire is well written and researched by Rita Henuber. I love Rita Henuber portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. I like Rita Henuber's description of the settings of Under Fire which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Under Fire will learn about the role of Coast Guard Helicopter Pilot. The readers of Under Fire will understand children's issues when one of the parents is career-minded.
I recommend this book.
Under Fire is the first book I have read by Rita Henuber. I engage with Under Fire from the first page. I enjoyed the way Rita Henuber put the twists and turns in the story. Rita Henuber ensured that I kept on my toes throughout this book. Under Fire is well written and researched by Rita Henuber. I love Rita Henuber portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. I like Rita Henuber's description of the settings of Under Fire which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Under Fire will learn about the role of Coast Guard Helicopter Pilot. The readers of Under Fire will understand children's issues when one of the parents is career-minded.
I recommend this book.
May 24, 2018
Under Fire is just what I was looking for when in the mood for romantic suspense. Rita Henuber gives this story the right amount of heat and passion in the midst of chaos and danger. Olivia, an officer in the Coast Guard has a personal mission to find the killer of her twin brother. When given the chance to meet an informant, she meets Rico. Their chemistry from the first meeting is off the charts, but when he turns out to be an undercover DEA agent, searching for the same men, their lives become intertwined and the danger heightens. Henuber has written a strong, capable, beautiful character with Olivia. I love her tenacity, spunk, strength and bravery she depicts and her belief and love in Rico. To compliment Olivia, Rico is written with protectiveness and intelligence, but most of all compassion and true love that shines through all his actions in the mission.
Narrated by the talented Gabra Zackman, she takes you on their journey for justice and love. I love her voice, always giving such emotions and feels when she narrates. Her pace is perfect and her voices are easily discernible. She is a narrator I am always happy to have in my ears.
Narrated by the talented Gabra Zackman, she takes you on their journey for justice and love. I love her voice, always giving such emotions and feels when she narrates. Her pace is perfect and her voices are easily discernible. She is a narrator I am always happy to have in my ears.
August 23, 2011
Review Originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2011/08/22/...
Publisher: Carina Press
Publish Date: Out Now!
How I got this book: NetGalley
I’ve read some Carina Press suspense books that really fell flat for me, but the blurb from debut author Rita Henuber caught my eye and I had to read it right away! This book did not disappoint, and I am looking forward to reading more from Henuber in the future.
Olivia is a helo pilot for the Coast Guard and busts drug dealers for her day job. But every other second she is working on a different mission: finding the man who killed her brother while he was working undercover. When she gets a tip from someone with information, she is thrown into a tornado of a situation that turns her life upside down and inside out.
Rico has been undercover for a long time, but when there is an attempt on his life, he knows his cover has been blown. He turns to Olivia looking to use her as a way out of town, and finds himself using her in more ways than he ever expected. Olivia turns out to be one of the only people he can find himself trusting, and together they work on getting Olivia undercover and working to take down her brother’s killer.
There were so many excellent things about this book, I really liked it. First thing was the action. It felt so real and I could tell the author knew what she was talking about. Even down to the descriptions of the different flight maneuvers Olivia would try in the helicopter’s were exciting and I could picture it all happening in my head. Add in the suspense of the undercover operation and Henuber kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
Next was the romance between Rico and Olivia. It was steamy and real and dirty and very, VERY sexy. I loved their moments together, from the first time they met to the sexy dancing scene to the making out like teenagers in the backseat of his car. They meshed together well, and once Rico started opening up to her more and more, revealing more of himself instead of the man who was undercover, it made their relationship more special.
I loved watching the plot unfold, and learning along with Olivia and Rico the extent of Silva’s, the drug lord, organization. I liked the added twist of not knowing who the snitch was giving away the undercover agents, and how Olivia was able to get her revenge for the death of her twin brother. I was really happy with the way the whole story wrapped up, letting both Rico and Olivia get their dues and keeping their integrity and morals intact.
Probably the only thing I didn’t like was how abruptly the story ended. I was glad that it didn’t just end with the big firefight where the suspense portion was wrapped up. But at the same time, it didn’t feel as if the story was really over yet. Yes, Olivia and Rico went off into the sunset (almost literally). But it felt rushed and abrupt. An epilogue or even a few pages more would have been a perfect way to really tie everything together.
All in all this was a wonderful debut from Henuber. This romantic suspense was done so well, the suspense a perfect combination of terror and intrigue. The romance was a great combination of learning to trust in another and steamy stolen moments. I can’t wait to read more from Henuber.
I give Under Fire an A-
Publisher: Carina Press
Publish Date: Out Now!
How I got this book: NetGalley
I’ve read some Carina Press suspense books that really fell flat for me, but the blurb from debut author Rita Henuber caught my eye and I had to read it right away! This book did not disappoint, and I am looking forward to reading more from Henuber in the future.
Olivia is a helo pilot for the Coast Guard and busts drug dealers for her day job. But every other second she is working on a different mission: finding the man who killed her brother while he was working undercover. When she gets a tip from someone with information, she is thrown into a tornado of a situation that turns her life upside down and inside out.
Rico has been undercover for a long time, but when there is an attempt on his life, he knows his cover has been blown. He turns to Olivia looking to use her as a way out of town, and finds himself using her in more ways than he ever expected. Olivia turns out to be one of the only people he can find himself trusting, and together they work on getting Olivia undercover and working to take down her brother’s killer.
There were so many excellent things about this book, I really liked it. First thing was the action. It felt so real and I could tell the author knew what she was talking about. Even down to the descriptions of the different flight maneuvers Olivia would try in the helicopter’s were exciting and I could picture it all happening in my head. Add in the suspense of the undercover operation and Henuber kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
Next was the romance between Rico and Olivia. It was steamy and real and dirty and very, VERY sexy. I loved their moments together, from the first time they met to the sexy dancing scene to the making out like teenagers in the backseat of his car. They meshed together well, and once Rico started opening up to her more and more, revealing more of himself instead of the man who was undercover, it made their relationship more special.
I loved watching the plot unfold, and learning along with Olivia and Rico the extent of Silva’s, the drug lord, organization. I liked the added twist of not knowing who the snitch was giving away the undercover agents, and how Olivia was able to get her revenge for the death of her twin brother. I was really happy with the way the whole story wrapped up, letting both Rico and Olivia get their dues and keeping their integrity and morals intact.
Probably the only thing I didn’t like was how abruptly the story ended. I was glad that it didn’t just end with the big firefight where the suspense portion was wrapped up. But at the same time, it didn’t feel as if the story was really over yet. Yes, Olivia and Rico went off into the sunset (almost literally). But it felt rushed and abrupt. An epilogue or even a few pages more would have been a perfect way to really tie everything together.
All in all this was a wonderful debut from Henuber. This romantic suspense was done so well, the suspense a perfect combination of terror and intrigue. The romance was a great combination of learning to trust in another and steamy stolen moments. I can’t wait to read more from Henuber.
I give Under Fire an A-
August 3, 2011
www.obsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com
Under Fire was kindly provided to me by Netgalley for Carina Press.
Olivia Carver is a well respected helicopter pilot for the Florida Coast Guard guarding against terrorists and drug smugglers. She is on a personal mission to locate the drug cartel and those responsiby for brutally murdering her twin brother, Danny as well as other agents who were each working undercover. When an informant offers her information in exchange for cash, she readily accepts and goes to the designated location. Thinking she has been stood up she instead accepts an offer from tall, dark and gorgeous Rico of dancing and drinks which then leads to a night of passion with no attachments.
Declan O’Conner is a DEA Agent deep undercover in Miami’s drug world playing the part of Rico Cortes when he sets up a meeting with Olivia to try and scare her off. He has been working on the case for a number of years and can’t afford for her to be nosing about. Falling into bed with her was definitely not in his well made out plans but he can’t ignore the feelings she ignites in him.
His assignment to find an informant responsible for the deaths of four undercover officers almost ends in his own death and he realizes he has been set-up and his cover in the Silva Drug Cartel blown and the person responsible could possibly be another agent. Not knowing who he can trust, he instantly turns to Olivia.
Olivia was certainly one kick-butt heroine hell-bent on revenge and not letting anything or anyone stand in her way, especially not Rico who she rescues and not knowing one way or another whether he can be trusted decides to work with him and accept the information he offers.
I enjoyed seeing Rico and Olivia meticulously plan a way to infiltrate the cartel, but naturally there are potholes and their plan could possibly leave them both unemployed and facing charges for going in rogue or dead.
I also loved them as a couple, Olivia was feisty and determined and Rico had a more natural, relaxed feel about him. They both had difficult pasts so seeing them trust in one another was nice. Between the sheets (or on the roof top, in the Cadillac etc.) was scorching hot! Ms Henuber writes a wonderful smexy scene. The way they accepted and cared for Mouse/Scott was also really sweet.
The plot was well thought out and the pacing solid. I enjoyed the writing style, the dialogue, the action and the romance. Ms henuber certainly researched the story well, everything was described and detailed perfectly.
What I didn’t like: The abrupt ending! I would have loved an epilogue to find out more about what happened in regards to injuries, their future together, their jobs etc. it just seemed a tad unfinished to me.
All in all, I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more by this author.
Under Fire was kindly provided to me by Netgalley for Carina Press.
Olivia Carver is a well respected helicopter pilot for the Florida Coast Guard guarding against terrorists and drug smugglers. She is on a personal mission to locate the drug cartel and those responsiby for brutally murdering her twin brother, Danny as well as other agents who were each working undercover. When an informant offers her information in exchange for cash, she readily accepts and goes to the designated location. Thinking she has been stood up she instead accepts an offer from tall, dark and gorgeous Rico of dancing and drinks which then leads to a night of passion with no attachments.
Declan O’Conner is a DEA Agent deep undercover in Miami’s drug world playing the part of Rico Cortes when he sets up a meeting with Olivia to try and scare her off. He has been working on the case for a number of years and can’t afford for her to be nosing about. Falling into bed with her was definitely not in his well made out plans but he can’t ignore the feelings she ignites in him.
His assignment to find an informant responsible for the deaths of four undercover officers almost ends in his own death and he realizes he has been set-up and his cover in the Silva Drug Cartel blown and the person responsible could possibly be another agent. Not knowing who he can trust, he instantly turns to Olivia.
Olivia was certainly one kick-butt heroine hell-bent on revenge and not letting anything or anyone stand in her way, especially not Rico who she rescues and not knowing one way or another whether he can be trusted decides to work with him and accept the information he offers.
I enjoyed seeing Rico and Olivia meticulously plan a way to infiltrate the cartel, but naturally there are potholes and their plan could possibly leave them both unemployed and facing charges for going in rogue or dead.
I also loved them as a couple, Olivia was feisty and determined and Rico had a more natural, relaxed feel about him. They both had difficult pasts so seeing them trust in one another was nice. Between the sheets (or on the roof top, in the Cadillac etc.) was scorching hot! Ms Henuber writes a wonderful smexy scene. The way they accepted and cared for Mouse/Scott was also really sweet.
The plot was well thought out and the pacing solid. I enjoyed the writing style, the dialogue, the action and the romance. Ms henuber certainly researched the story well, everything was described and detailed perfectly.
What I didn’t like: The abrupt ending! I would have loved an epilogue to find out more about what happened in regards to injuries, their future together, their jobs etc. it just seemed a tad unfinished to me.
All in all, I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more by this author.
July 4, 2013
Olivia Carver is a Coast Guard helicopter pilot, damned good at anything she does, and on a mission to find those responsible for the death of her twin brother. Following a lead to bring her closer to the drug cartel she believes is behind her twin's murder, she meets Rico Cortes at a bar not knowing he's the informant. The sparks fly almost immediately when these two characters meet and even with all the self control possessed by each, they end up entangled in bed sheets and sexually satisfied.
The overarching plot was a good stage to bring the main H/h together and showcase their strengths, their weaknesses, and their eventual falling in love. There were a few instances where I felt like the plot wasn't tight enough, but because I was more focused on character and relationship development, it did not bother me. There is a lot of action in this book: kicking, punching, explosions, gunfire, nose-biting (ouch!), you name it, the female lead was out for vengeance and she can kick some serious butt. The male lead played more of a supportive role in helping Olivia bring down the drug cartel from the inside and as strong as he is, the focus is on the female, for the most part. There are also a few supporting characters in the novel, but you only get to see them in the beginning and in the end of the book so I didn't get too attached to them.
Overall, the book was entertaining and I enjoyed the romance and action part of the story. Not my usual read, but at the price I paid for it ($4.95) I was happy.
Narration
Narrator: Gabra Zackman
Performance: 3/5
This is the second book that I've listened to with Zackman as the narrator. Unlike the first book, her performance in this narration was sub-par. At times it was difficult to distinguish who was speaking because her female and male voices sounded similar. Also she made some of men sound like little boys, virtually devaluing their kickass stature. I think this recording could have used some refining.
The overarching plot was a good stage to bring the main H/h together and showcase their strengths, their weaknesses, and their eventual falling in love. There were a few instances where I felt like the plot wasn't tight enough, but because I was more focused on character and relationship development, it did not bother me. There is a lot of action in this book: kicking, punching, explosions, gunfire, nose-biting (ouch!), you name it, the female lead was out for vengeance and she can kick some serious butt. The male lead played more of a supportive role in helping Olivia bring down the drug cartel from the inside and as strong as he is, the focus is on the female, for the most part. There are also a few supporting characters in the novel, but you only get to see them in the beginning and in the end of the book so I didn't get too attached to them.
Overall, the book was entertaining and I enjoyed the romance and action part of the story. Not my usual read, but at the price I paid for it ($4.95) I was happy.
Narration
Narrator: Gabra Zackman
Performance: 3/5
This is the second book that I've listened to with Zackman as the narrator. Unlike the first book, her performance in this narration was sub-par. At times it was difficult to distinguish who was speaking because her female and male voices sounded similar. Also she made some of men sound like little boys, virtually devaluing their kickass stature. I think this recording could have used some refining.
December 29, 2012
Olivia Carver is a Coast Guard helicopter pilot. One with more balls than most men. She has no fear when flying and doesnt think twice about doing risky moves to stop the bad guys.
But she also is obsessed with finding her twin brother's killer. This leads her to a bar where she thinks she is meeting an informant that is going to give her the name of her brothers killer.
Rico Cortes is a deep undercover DEA agent. He has been trying to bring down the biggest Miami drug lord for years. When he finds out that Olivia is messing up his investigation he goes to the bar to try and get her to back off. But these two are instantly attracted to each other and spend the night burning up the sheets.
When a drug bust goes south and Rico is recovered from the boat that blew up Olivia finds out who he really is and now that his cover is blown the two take off on the run.
Once I got into the book I realized that Olivia was bordering more on the Alpha character of the book than Rico was. I like strong women characters but it was a little weird.
Rico realizes that Olivia isnt going to back off and he agrees to help her go undercover to try and bring down the drug lord who is also her brother's murderer.
There are lots of twist and turns in the book that lead up to a final showdown that leaves the best woman standing.
But she also is obsessed with finding her twin brother's killer. This leads her to a bar where she thinks she is meeting an informant that is going to give her the name of her brothers killer.
Rico Cortes is a deep undercover DEA agent. He has been trying to bring down the biggest Miami drug lord for years. When he finds out that Olivia is messing up his investigation he goes to the bar to try and get her to back off. But these two are instantly attracted to each other and spend the night burning up the sheets.
When a drug bust goes south and Rico is recovered from the boat that blew up Olivia finds out who he really is and now that his cover is blown the two take off on the run.
Once I got into the book I realized that Olivia was bordering more on the Alpha character of the book than Rico was. I like strong women characters but it was a little weird.
Rico realizes that Olivia isnt going to back off and he agrees to help her go undercover to try and bring down the drug lord who is also her brother's murderer.
There are lots of twist and turns in the book that lead up to a final showdown that leaves the best woman standing.
August 6, 2011
Olivia Carver is great at doing her job, she is a helicopter pilot at the Coast Guard. Throughout the years of doing her job, she has earned a lot of respect. Olivia's twin was murdered during a undercover mission. Her twin, Danny, was trying to find evidence against a drug cartel, but unfortunately he was sold out by somebody. Olivia is trying to find out who killed her brother by using her position in the Coast guard to find some information.
While doing that she meets, Rico, who is also a DEA agent like her brother, but his cover was blown. He doesn’t know who to trust anymore. So, Olivia and Rico forms a partnership to take down the drug cartel and the person who sold out her brother and the rest of the DEA agents.
Olivia is a fierce and persistent person. When she is determined to get what she wants, she goes all the way.
While doing that she meets, Rico, who is also a DEA agent like her brother, but his cover was blown. He doesn’t know who to trust anymore. So, Olivia and Rico forms a partnership to take down the drug cartel and the person who sold out her brother and the rest of the DEA agents.
Olivia is a fierce and persistent person. When she is determined to get what she wants, she goes all the way.
February 10, 2012
One of the best bks I've read in 2011. Loved it. WOW!!! What a bk - fast moving action, edge of your seat suspense, intense love scenes between Olivia the kickass heroine and the VERY HOT undercover agent Rico. This duo is steamy hot with plenty of romance. The romance starts out very early in the bk, not waiting until half way through. Even though the love scenes start early it all plays well into the story. OMG that Rico!!! He's sexy AND witty. LOL!!! He delivers one of the best lines I've read early on in the story. (It's on my quotes on my books page as a favorite.) Loved Elle - she stayed tough and could carry her own with the big boys. She and Rico are a perfect match. Wonderful side characters - Olivia’s crew and Mouse. What a great HEA! And a surprise on the very last page I didn't see coming. Ok, Rita Henuber, tough act to follow up, but I'm definitely ready for more.
October 21, 2011
This is more like 4.5 stars....I LOVED THIS BOOK. I can't wait to see what else this author comes up with. I was surprised to find out this is her debut book. This book has it ALL. I was hooked from the first few pages when Olivia showed she was a pilot not to be messed with. Olivia is a strong woman full of spunk and sass with the know-how to back it all up. Rico is a tough as nails DEA agent that is sexy, with a killer smile and to many secrets for him not to be irresistible. The secondary characters were just as much fun to read about. Mouse is a KICK!! I was so happy for his own happy ending. This book had non-stop action and some steamy hot sex scenes. The banter was refreshing and Rico and Olivia had great chemistry. My only complaint about this book, was it ended rather abruptly. I am hoping that means we are being set up for another book :)
September 13, 2011
Under Fire was a really good romantic suspense. It had great main characters and a compelling plot. I enjoyed seeing the steamy relationship unfold between the two main characters and the storyline held my interest throughout the book.
Olivia is a helicopter for the Coast Guard who is willing to risk everything in order to have revenge upon those who murdered her undercover agent brother. Rico is a deep undercover agent who becomes caught up in Olivia's quest to avenge her brother's death. As their steamy romance develops, they have to stay ahead of danger to keep their lives intact.
I received this ARC from Netgalley. The book was very enjoyable, with sympathetic characters and lots of action. I'll be looking forward to Henuber's subsequent books.
Olivia is a helicopter for the Coast Guard who is willing to risk everything in order to have revenge upon those who murdered her undercover agent brother. Rico is a deep undercover agent who becomes caught up in Olivia's quest to avenge her brother's death. As their steamy romance develops, they have to stay ahead of danger to keep their lives intact.
I received this ARC from Netgalley. The book was very enjoyable, with sympathetic characters and lots of action. I'll be looking forward to Henuber's subsequent books.
October 22, 2011
This book had problems. In romance the story is about a growing emotional attachment between the Heroine and the Hero. Olivia and Rico became attached to each other, but it was based on the physical first. While I know others argue that a physical attraction leads to an emotional attraction in the genre, I disagree whole-heartedly. Then again, I don't think erotica should be included in the romance genre either.
As for the heroine, Olivia really does kick ass. More than Rico. For that I gave a second star.
As for the heroine, Olivia really does kick ass. More than Rico. For that I gave a second star.
November 27, 2011
I read this book on my sister's Kindle while she went shopping on Black Friday. I wish I'd gone shopping instead. The hero didn't seem heroic and I didn't like that they involved a homeless boy in their efforts to catch a drug lord. If it had been an actual book instead of my sister's Kindle, I would have thrown it against the wall at the end which was 't really an ending. Oh and when I told my husband the former Navy pilot about the book, he said she would have been in BIG trouble for going AWOL.
April 15, 2012
This was my first book by Rita Henuber and it will not be my last. I really enjoyed this book. It was a suspenseful story with the right amount of romance and intimacy. Beyond Rico and Olivia's romance you find relationships with the other characters that are equally interesting and heartwarming. I really admired what Olivia was willing to go through for her brother. She is not the typical kick-butt heroine. She is so much more. Ms. Henuber creates a lot of depth to her characters which makes the story so great and really makes you feel for them. I highly recommend this book!
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