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Titanium Security #3

Burned (Titanium Security Series) (Volume 3) by Kaylea Cross

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A woman with a dark past...Forced into hiding after her NSA-sanctioned task force lands on a terrorist cell’s hit list, cryptologist Zahra Gill must rely on the skill and experience of her ex-Special Ops Titanium Security teammates to keep her safe—including former Force Recon Marine Sean Dunphy. The impossibly sexy man has the unnerving ability to shatter her concentration by simply walking into the same room. Even though she’s sworn to keep him at a distance, his charm and protectiveness weaken her resistance. Drawn to his strength and magnetic sensuality, she finally gives in to the passion she’s denied herself for so long...even though she knows she might lose her heart in the process.The man strong enough to win her trust...Sean’s had his eye on the guarded, proud analyst from the first day they met. He knows she’s hiding something from him, but nothing could have prepared him for the shocking truth of her past. When a targeted attack brutally exposes Zahra’s dark secrets, Sean will do everything in his power to protect the woman he’s fallen for. Unfortunately the cell hunting them has powerful connections and their enemy is closer than they ever imagined.

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First published August 26, 2013

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About the author

Kaylea Cross

98 books1,799 followers
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
Profile Image for Baba  .
858 reviews3,999 followers
September 12, 2013
4 stars.****Review completed September 11, 2013

I'm going to make it short and sweet.

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"Come on, sweetness, open wide. I know you want it."


I know your mind is in the gutter now. Tsk-tsk…but it's not what you have on your mind. Not at all. :)


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He caught her wrist and kissed her fingertips. Cupping the back of her head in one big hand, he pulled her down as he leaned up. The kiss was gentle, almost chaste compared to what he'd done to her earlier, but the emotion behind it shook her to the bone.


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Sean burned Zahra…
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The plot was good, although the idea which led to the action and suspense was very predictable. Still, I really enjoyed it!
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Kaylea writes very sensual heroes and it goes without saying that the long love scene made my girlie bits tingle. It was beautifully done. Due to her very religious upbringing, Zahra was a bit shy and inhibited, but Sean really encouraged her to embrace her sexuality. The impact he had on her was so positive and he inspired her--not only on a sexual level. Also, her self-confidence grew tremendously. Plus, Sean brought some fun and light-heartedness into Zahra's rather somber life. She really needed that. I did appreciate that Sean was so patient and didn't poke around in Zahra's past to unravel her little secret. He waited until she was ready to talk about it.

Burned is another satisfying and enjoyable installment in Kaylea Cross's Titanium Security series. Action and suspense, likable MCs, and sensual smexy times make this book worth reading. Next up is Blake's story.

Recommended read.


P.S. Can't wait to read Alex's story because being mature is damn sexy! *grabby hands*


**ARC courtesy of Kaylea Cross in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Twinkle {semi-hiatus}.
91 reviews69 followers
January 15, 2022
4.5 KC is my saviour stars

So...I might have been a wee bit over-zealous and may have possibly jinxed myself with my optimism for the new year in terms of reading (and let's not kid ourselves, the new year in general) after my last 5 star read, because no book has interested me or has been able to hold my interest for long. And that depresses me. I do not need any more of that, you hear me?

Trust Kaylea Cross to give me hope (I'll never learn, will I?😪) that there are books out there that I will love, they just might be far and few. Ms. Cross made me fall in love with Romantic-suspense and Military-fiction with her fantabulous Bagram Series (If you don't agree please don't come at me because I don't have the strength to fight you. I mean, I will, I just don't feel like it. Capiche? 🥱) so I know she can write.
I agree the first book of this series didn't really impress me when I read it last year, but I'm glad I gave Burned a chance. The fast pace of the story didn't let my brain wallow in despair and kept me occupied with something or the other happening, which I think is my main issue with books at the moment. Slow burn books need to take a back seat for now.

Sean and Zahra were amazing together and gave me butterflies with their delicious chemistry. There's just a couple of sex scenes but oh my, was it hot! 🥵 Although I do enjoy my smut, it made me realize that not every sex scene needs to be filled with crude language or be overtly sexual, which is ironic, considering, to make it hot. There's an omnipresent sexual awareness between both of them that comes to fruition in the sexiest of ways.

Though some people don't like getting the villain's pov, the author knows just how to get into their twisted minds and give you a glimpse of the other side to keep you on your proverbial toes. The action and suspense as always were adrenaline inducing and there were no loose ends for me to crib about.

I'm very content at the moment but also terrified of having my next read turning out to be a dud, which is why I may go on a KC binge 🤞
Profile Image for itsmeesahara❤️.
294 reviews
March 16, 2020
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐✨

Burned is the third installment of Titanium Security Series.
The story picks up immediately after the previous book Singed.
After the bombing that almost killed Gage, everyone has been on edge. So with the help of the Titanium Security team, NSA’s Cryptologist Zahra Gill, had to move out as they were all targeted by the cell they were tracking. Former Force Recon Marine, Sean Dunphy, had to protect Zahra as she was specifically targeted as being the “weakest link”.

Reading the first two books in the series I was kinda excited about reading Sean and Zahra's story.
The story was a little slow paced for me, compared to the first book in the series, Ignited which was my favorite😍. The action was back as well and the mystery of who was the mole in the NSA(though I think I had an idea who it was in the beginning 🙄) was a nice touch to the plot. Sadly, I did not feel any connection with Sean and Zahra. They may have a good chemistry and have a sweet relationship. It's that I just I feel like there is something missing. Still it was a good book especially the pranks between Sean and Hunter (loved it 😂).

“I believe you, I’m proud as hell that you’ve fought for what you wanted, what you believe in.”
Profile Image for Jonetta.
2,558 reviews1,300 followers
November 25, 2018
This series has a continuing story arc and should be read in order.

The task force team is forced to move again after their safe house was compromised. Zahra Gill has moved to her own place but when someone shows up late one night and creates a disturbance, Titanium Security Agent Sean Dunphy decides to camp out until the threat is resolved. Both have strong attractions to each other but Zahra has kept him at a distance and it’s obvious she’s guarding the secrets of her past. However, it soon becomes clear that, for now, Zahra is the focus of the terrorist threat and there’s a serious leak within NSA.

The set up for this story began in the last book so I was looking forward to learning more about Zahra as it was clear she suffered some awful trauma in her past. I liked how we were provided the latest terrorist operative’s point of view as it ratcheted up the tension when the team was unaware there was trouble brewing. While most of the earlier part of the book tilted towards the romance, the last third is all action and suspense.

I really enjoyed the story, especially the second half where I found it difficult to put the book down. Zahra and Sean’s romance worked, too, as there wasn’t any game playing and their relationship was sensual and honest. The identity of the NSA leak is also disclosed and I’m glad that’s resolved. The action was as exciting as I found the first book, filled with realistic outcomes. I’m still enjoying the series and am looking forward to what’s next for the team.
Profile Image for Lady Heather .
1,310 reviews773 followers
November 18, 2013


AMAZING!!

5 shiny stars

LOVE. LOVED. LOVED Sean & Zahra's story!

Once again (and in my opinion ALL of Kaylea Cross' books) the writing, characters, and story-line are fantastic!



Okay, now I have to wait until Friday to read the next book in the series (Ellis & Jordyn's story), and I CANNOT WAIT!
Profile Image for Yvonne.
969 reviews82 followers
August 12, 2015
Quick and easy read and saw twist and turns coming a mile away, but still love Kaylea Cross.
Steam level - Mild

Profile Image for ツ Renée.
208 reviews25 followers
September 20, 2013
I just cannot get enough of this series! Burned was FANTASTIC!!

Despite the danger and suspense surrounding them and the urgency to take Malik down, we got to experience the lighter side of the team. The pranks were hilarious! I laughed so hard when the guys got their payback. Sean’s reaction was priceless!

I loved him! His humor, his sensuality, his fierce possessiveness and protectiveness of Zahra. I fell for him big time!

And Zahra captured my heart as well, with her strength and vulnerability. I enjoyed the two of them as much as I did Hunter and Khalia. I didn’t want their story to end.

I'm counting the days until I get my hands on Blake!!
Profile Image for Mareli.
1,034 reviews32 followers
March 13, 2017
Another hit for me. Zahara and Sean were so good, I loved them from the very start and they didn't disappoint me.
Profile Image for Anita.
2,604 reviews216 followers
November 17, 2018
Maybe three stars is a bit low, but I just finished a fabulous book and this one just didn't measure up to, not only to the other books in the series, but to other romantic-suspense books I've read. Just didn't cut it for me.

Zahra Gill has a mysterious past and a burning desire to fight Islamic Fundamentalism in any way she can. She is a translator with the NAS and is currently working to bring down Malik Hassani and his terrorist cell. She is working with Sean Dunphy from Titanium Security for several week and the attraction goes both ways, but Zahra is currently on a "no man" hiatus, well, was, anyway. With the group under attack, they are hiding and trying to pinpoint the mole in the NSA.

Sean has made it his priority to keep Zahra safe and that's a very good thing when she ends up being the next target.
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,383 reviews
October 8, 2024
It's no secret at this point that I'm a big Kaylea Cross fan and BURNED is another excellent addition to the books I've read. I'm really enjoying the TITANIUM SECURITY series and in BURNED we see the team scrambling to find the person who is targeting the team. Sean and Zahra have been working together since the first book and their chemistry has been evident, but Zahra is on a dating hiatus and she's not used to trusting people. I really enjoyed watching these two circling each other and seeing how Sean shows Zahra over and over again that he's a good guy and he'll always be there for her. They have a really sweet development to their relationship -- definitely a slow burn here -- but once they finally get together, they were on fire!

One of the things I love about Kaylea Cross's writing is the way she weaves together the romance and the suspense with each getting lots of space to develop on the page. I'm always sucked into the suspense and mystery while also falling in love with the characters and their stories. In particular, I loved Sean and his charming and confident personality. He's a natural protector and seems to instinctively know how best to help Zahra without being overbearing. I also really enjoyed Zahra who has been to hell and back and isn't afraid to keep fighting. She might appear vulnerable and reserved on the outside but she has no problem speaking her mind or standing up for herself.

In addition, I love the whole Titanium team and those that are working with them. Cross also gives the reader lots of side character development without taking away from the main couple.


Content Warning: References to Muslim religion transforming into extremist behaviors/beliefs; Zahra was abused and almost killed for not conforming to family's extremist beliefs; Zahra has a limp and occasionally pelvic and hip pain due to her attack
Profile Image for Jessica Frances.
Author 29 books403 followers
December 17, 2016
Burned is book three in the Titanium Security series. In this one we follow Sean and Zahra as they try to track down a mole while also stopping a terrorist organization that is hell bent on making an example out of their team. I really loved Zahra and my heart ached for the past she had lived through. Sean was perfect for her and I liked that there was no silly drama with them getting together. They both knew what they wanted and neither played any games with each other. It made a nice progression to read them falling in love. Add in suspense and action and this was a fun read.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,074 reviews48 followers
September 9, 2013
Think this bk is my fav so far in this series. The heat is on early in the story between Sean/Zahra. Whoa..that Sean! Likey-likey. But it isn't all schmex, there's a good story too. The Titanium team are still hunting the baddies who have their sights set on Sean/Zahra. To balance out that sex and drama are some good laughs with the Titanium team guys. (LOL! Loved the pranks.) These bks go too fast, sigh…then they’re over. Looking forward to bk 4.
Profile Image for Victoria.
1,188 reviews94 followers
December 27, 2014
A solid 4.25 STAR read! I was a little late reading this series but am so glad I did. This third book was my favorite of the series I think. Kaylea Cross can definitely write a love scene. I loved Sean. He was capable, sensual, sexy, alpha, and a good guy. This series is now on my "must read" list! Readers that like romantic suspense stories with a strong group of ex-military operatives as hero's, this series shouldn't be missed.
Profile Image for Dee.
2,649 reviews18 followers
January 29, 2016
Two-haiku review:

They work together
Terrorists after them both
Can they get away?

Same very bad guy
Kind of continuation
Best read in order
Profile Image for Susan (susayq ~).
2,514 reviews132 followers
October 24, 2014
3.5 stars

Another good book in the series. Once again, this picks up immediately after the previous book, and I LOVE that!

I am totally in love with Sean. If I could make him be real, I'd totally go for him LOL Zahra was such a strong, brave heroine. She was great. My reasoning for rating this what I did is because I felt that the romance was rushed. Granted, I've never been through what they went through,and maybe being in a life or death situation makes you come to realize your feelings quicker than normal, but their "I love you"s came within just a few days of them starting a romantic relationship.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,069 reviews93 followers
September 6, 2013
4.5 stars!!!
I’ve been intrigued by Sean and Zahra for awhile now. For some reason, I saw Sean as the tech guy, not the badass guy who happens to be really good with technology. And for the record? Our man Sean, is quite the dominant and sexy guy in the bedroom. Nice. I was totally not expecting that. I love this series for many reasons.

Read the rest of my review here:
Straight Shootin' Book Reviews
Profile Image for Reen.
473 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2016
Zahra Gill is a cryptologist forced into hiding and must rely on her Titanium Security teammates to keep her safe. She is drawn to Sean Dunphy and he wins her trust and her heart. Zahra is strong and brave and vulnerable at the same time and her back story with Alex is good too. Some really funny moments with the team and their practical jokes!
Profile Image for Renee.
239 reviews
February 5, 2017
I enjoyed Sean and Zahra's story. It read a lot like the other 2 books in the series with the same group after the men and woman. This story does pick up right at the same point that book 2 ended so it does have a feel of a continuous read. I will continue to read the series just to see how everything ends for the security group.
Profile Image for Angela.
233 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2020
Book 3 of the Titanium Security Series was better than book 2 - in my opinion. All of these books have the same premise...the hard bodied security member is tasked to look after the targeted woman and the sparks fly and they fall in love. I love it. I wouldn't read it if I didn't. This is Sean and Zahra's story.

The head of the terrorist organization in Pakistan is desperate to kill any and all of the members of Titanium Security. He's had 2 failed missions despite having a mole in the NSA and willing agents already embedded in America. For his third attempt, he goes after Zahra because one of his willing agents has a connection with her father. If they can find Zahra, and any of the Titanium Security members with her, the mission is to kill them all.

Needless to say, this doesn't go as planned. The security team members are trained beyond belief and if it did go as planned, there wouldn't be a book series. :) After an attempt on Zahra's life during an awards event - with Sean as her date - they go off the grid, hoping for a few days to recover and regroup. The sparks when they're alone burst into flames and their time together was more than hot. That is, before an agent from the terrorist cell finds their location and they're forced to flee through the woods in a fight for their lives.

There aren't that many twists and turns in this series. We know who the bad guy is going into the book. Even though the suspense is dramatic, we know we're getting a happily ever after for the couple featured. I will also say that these aren't really made to be stand alone novels. While the mole was exposed in this book, they were first brought to our attention in the previous books (and I guessed at who it was in book 2 and turns out I was right). But the head of the terrorist organization in Pakistan hasn't been caught so it's on to book 4...
Profile Image for Pet.
3,726 reviews7 followers
September 20, 2018
Wow this series is fast paced, there is something going on, on nearly every page. Car chases, bombings, gun fighting, running the list goes on and on. This is Suspence romance bumped up to the extreme. I love Dunphy his mischief making adds a little lightness to the run away suspence and harsh situations in this story. Zahra just breaks my heart in places, to have gone through what she has and come out so determined and strong, I love that kind of h, KC is the master in creating a heroine that I can admire and get attached to.
Wonderful series great stories I highly recommend anyone who hasn't read her work to start with this series it kicks butt.
Profile Image for lily bookscation.
490 reviews
May 20, 2021
better than the second book

Sean is a member of Titanium and the boys working together with the NSA to bring down Malik Hasani and his cell who terrorise people.

Sean meets Zahra, a linguist works for L
Alex, the NSA leader. She has a traumatic past.

Zahra is from a strict Moslem family. Her father didn't like his free spirited daughter. Her father never allowed Zahra to pursued her dreams and forbid her to live as she wanted. Zahra left her family and it cost her mother's life.

The action is pretty cool and the romance is natural. They hit it off from the start.

I've already read the fourth book, so I know what will happen to Sean ☹️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cassy.
1,426 reviews56 followers
January 7, 2024
This book has easily been my favorite of this series so far.

Sean and Zahra had fantastic chemistry. Even before this book I was invested in their relationship and it only got better. It was a slow burn, but so well done. The tension, the flirting, the dirty talk. All of it was A+ spot on and perfect. It was paced incredibly well.

Not to mention, the mix of danger and romance was SO much better in this book. We felt the danger all the way through, with some well placed danger scenes. The climax was well done without being over the top or boring ir unrealistic.

Plus Sean and Zahra were so likable. Over all just an incredibly enjoyable book.
Profile Image for Maria .
2,465 reviews23 followers
July 9, 2019
Sean & Zahra's story was good, but what was fantastic were the laugh out loud moments! Those moments added a wicked flavor to this story. I hope she continues doing that in the future. Sean has had his eye on Zahra since the first time he met her. She has a past and he knows if he really wanted to get could find out, but he wants to earn her trust, not violate it. His team has been targeted and now they realize do has she. Zahra, had decided to take a six month break from men, but the handsomely devilish Sean is going to make that difficult.
Profile Image for NotTheTea.
824 reviews41 followers
July 24, 2023
❎Ok these books are very intertwined. *Sigh*


❎Seeeeriouslyyyyy they're taking islamophobe route?


❎So Zahra's father killed her mother and tried to kill her because she turned a wild child. How does it connect to terrorism?


❎Of course she never orgasmed 🙄


❎Way to describe Zahra as liability. No need to fill pages describing that.


❎I'm dreadreading this book.🙄


❎I felt like it's a long freaking series and I just watched one episode only which I certainly didn't like anything about.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,113 reviews17 followers
September 8, 2018
This was awwwweeeeessssoooommmmeeee. For all the attitude Zahra Gave Sean, I forgive her. I knew she had to be that way because of her terrible and shameful upbringing but it wasn’t his fault. Again, I understand. This book just had so much of everything that I couldn’t stop reading. I hope everything turns out well for all members of the titanium team....can’t wait for more.
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