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Dept 6 Hired Guns #1
White Heat
#1 New York Times bestselling author Brenda Novak draws readers into a town where a deadly cult of personality brings two investigating agents closer to love…and possibly death.
A dangerous cult has recently taken over the desert ghost town of Paradise, Arizona. Members worship at the feet—and in the bed—of its charismatic leader, Ethan Wycliff, and obey his orders blindly. They've already tried to murder one woman and they're implicated in the disappearance of another.
Nate Ferrentino, who works for private security contractor Department 6, has been assigned to infiltrate this group. It's a challenge he welcomes—until he learns that colleague Rachel Jessop will be going undercover with him. Thanks to their shared history, he'd much rather go alone….
The problem is, only married couples can participate in cult rituals. So, like it or not—and they don't—Rachel and Nate must pretend to be husband and wife.
There's no choice. Because if Wycliff isn't exposed, if he isn't stopped, more people will die. And Rachel might be one of them.
Previously published.
A dangerous cult has recently taken over the desert ghost town of Paradise, Arizona. Members worship at the feet—and in the bed—of its charismatic leader, Ethan Wycliff, and obey his orders blindly. They've already tried to murder one woman and they're implicated in the disappearance of another.
Nate Ferrentino, who works for private security contractor Department 6, has been assigned to infiltrate this group. It's a challenge he welcomes—until he learns that colleague Rachel Jessop will be going undercover with him. Thanks to their shared history, he'd much rather go alone….
The problem is, only married couples can participate in cult rituals. So, like it or not—and they don't—Rachel and Nate must pretend to be husband and wife.
There's no choice. Because if Wycliff isn't exposed, if he isn't stopped, more people will die. And Rachel might be one of them.
Previously published.
447 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2010
105 people are currently reading
1335 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
238 books6,962 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
August 4, 2010
This was just an ok book. Two suppossedly well-trained (one ex-military) people agree to go undercover at a cult. The only plan they have was given to them the day before they were to leave. They didn't let the local cops know they were there and what their intentions were. They had no clearcut plan as to what they were going to do once they got there. They had no plan on how they were going to get out. The one person that had escaped there, ended up being stashed away in a town of 500 people. Wasn't much of a surprise when she was rekidnapped. I wish her ending could have been wrote different.
If this was BN's first book I could forgive some of these things, but this is the first book of her 4th trilogy. The love scenes were practically non-existant. So here they are out in the middle of the desert, where sounds carry for miles, but they didn't hear the the cult memebers come and stake out their house. They manage to get in and steal a laptop right out their crappy mobile home and get away. Even though Rachel had a gun right there with her. They never could break Nate's password, so I am not sure what the point of the theft played in the book.
It was just frustrating these little things pulled me out of the book. I wish I could give it more stars, but I can't.
If this was BN's first book I could forgive some of these things, but this is the first book of her 4th trilogy. The love scenes were practically non-existant. So here they are out in the middle of the desert, where sounds carry for miles, but they didn't hear the the cult memebers come and stake out their house. They manage to get in and steal a laptop right out their crappy mobile home and get away. Even though Rachel had a gun right there with her. They never could break Nate's password, so I am not sure what the point of the theft played in the book.
It was just frustrating these little things pulled me out of the book. I wish I could give it more stars, but I can't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2017
White Heat
3 Stars
Similar premise to Cheyenne McCray's Chosen Prey although the balance between the romance and suspense is slightly off.
The cult and its leader are suitably creepy and depraved but the only reason they pose a threat is because Nate and Rachel are so woefully unprepared for their assignment. The lack of background on Department 6 and its operatives, the wobbly professionalism of the undercover agents and the heroine's somewhat TSTL actions all undermine the promise of the plot.
Nate and Rachel's romance is also weak. They have intense chemistry but it remains unfulfilled as they are constantly at each others' throats and their love scenes fizzle out completely. Nate's reasons for initially rejecting Rachel are never sufficiently explained and his transition from holding her at arms length to accepting that he loves her is sudden and lacking foundation.
This is my first Brenda Novak and it was entertaining enough to continue with the series.
3 Stars
Similar premise to Cheyenne McCray's Chosen Prey although the balance between the romance and suspense is slightly off.
The cult and its leader are suitably creepy and depraved but the only reason they pose a threat is because Nate and Rachel are so woefully unprepared for their assignment. The lack of background on Department 6 and its operatives, the wobbly professionalism of the undercover agents and the heroine's somewhat TSTL actions all undermine the promise of the plot.
Nate and Rachel's romance is also weak. They have intense chemistry but it remains unfulfilled as they are constantly at each others' throats and their love scenes fizzle out completely. Nate's reasons for initially rejecting Rachel are never sufficiently explained and his transition from holding her at arms length to accepting that he loves her is sudden and lacking foundation.
This is my first Brenda Novak and it was entertaining enough to continue with the series.
September 9, 2011
This book is 90% suspence and 10% romance and part of me wanted to only give this one 4 1/2 * for the lack of discribed love scenes but the story was just too good to do that. There are two love scenes and the second owe is a little more detailed but mainly both are about a paragraph and more about the emotions that are felt by both H/h.
Rachel (h) had grown up with a religous zelot for a father. Not aloud to do much of anything (birthdays,holidays, visting friends, dating, college) until she left at the age of 17. She moved in with a friend and went to college. Years later she gets a job at Department 6, kind of undercover cops/securtity agenets, were she meets Nate (H). Having grown up the way she did she was socialy stunted and not really sure on how to handle the feelings that she had for Nate. One night she decided to throw caution to the wind and suprise him by waiting naked for him in his bed.
Nate had a bad experince with a woman he was sleeping with in the past. She fell hard in love with him and when he didn't return those feelings she tried to kill herself. So he has sworn never to take a womans love lightly again but when he comes home to find Rachel waiting naked for him in his bed he tried to remember that...he really did. However he wasn't able to tell her until the next morning. Feeling completely humiliated and promising never to do that again, she decides to put this behind her and keep working at Department 6.
Eight months later they are assinged to infiltrate a religous cult, the only problem is that only married couples can participate in cult rituals. So like it or not, and they don't, Rachel and Nate have to pretend to be husband and wife. Not only do they have to fight their feelings for eachother but this cult seems to be more dangerous than the had fist thought. People are missing,one woman's has escaped after they tried to kill her and when the leader of the cult sees Rachel he wants her for a higher purpose.
Rachel (h) had grown up with a religous zelot for a father. Not aloud to do much of anything (birthdays,holidays, visting friends, dating, college) until she left at the age of 17. She moved in with a friend and went to college. Years later she gets a job at Department 6, kind of undercover cops/securtity agenets, were she meets Nate (H). Having grown up the way she did she was socialy stunted and not really sure on how to handle the feelings that she had for Nate. One night she decided to throw caution to the wind and suprise him by waiting naked for him in his bed.
Nate had a bad experince with a woman he was sleeping with in the past. She fell hard in love with him and when he didn't return those feelings she tried to kill herself. So he has sworn never to take a womans love lightly again but when he comes home to find Rachel waiting naked for him in his bed he tried to remember that...he really did. However he wasn't able to tell her until the next morning. Feeling completely humiliated and promising never to do that again, she decides to put this behind her and keep working at Department 6.
Eight months later they are assinged to infiltrate a religous cult, the only problem is that only married couples can participate in cult rituals. So like it or not, and they don't, Rachel and Nate have to pretend to be husband and wife. Not only do they have to fight their feelings for eachother but this cult seems to be more dangerous than the had fist thought. People are missing,one woman's has escaped after they tried to kill her and when the leader of the cult sees Rachel he wants her for a higher purpose.
January 25, 2018
Started this series by Brenda Novak which is quite different from her others. But loved it all the same.
She makes her characters so real you feel you know them. Nate and Rachel work for Dept 6, a private security company and their job is to infiltrate a cult in Arizona. The leader of the cult, Ethan, thinks he is god and therefore can do whatever he wants. People are disappearing and dying so it is Nate and Rachel's job to get in there and save them. A little romance, violence and of course a great story leads you to a climatic ending. Now on to Book #2.
She makes her characters so real you feel you know them. Nate and Rachel work for Dept 6, a private security company and their job is to infiltrate a cult in Arizona. The leader of the cult, Ethan, thinks he is god and therefore can do whatever he wants. People are disappearing and dying so it is Nate and Rachel's job to get in there and save them. A little romance, violence and of course a great story leads you to a climatic ending. Now on to Book #2.
December 30, 2015
Review copy provided by publisher
Why I Read this Book: I have been reading quite of few romantic suspense novels lately and what I found out is that I really enjoy reading this sub-genre. I am also fascinated with CSI and forensics. So when I came across this book, it caught my interest. Though, I was a bit concerned about the religious cult element and I had hoped it wouldn’t be too overbearing. So much for wishful thinking.
What I Liked: The plot was well thought out. The religious cult that the author created was scarily surreal. We hear about cults like these in the news from time to time and this author nailed it right on the head.
The infiltration process was interesting, exciting and felt like a dangerous thrill ride. I was turning page after page, on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out how things were going to end. Once the action started happening, there was no putting this book down.
What I Didn’t Like: White Heat was heavy on the religious cult, and I mean lay it on thick heavy! Yes, I know that was the plot of the story before going in but it was a bit overwhelming.
I love tension, especially between the two main characters, but the characters also need have to chemistry. The air was filled with thick tension between Nate and Rachel but I wasn’t feeling the chemistry. And the love scenes between them left more to be desired. They were short and not too telling. I was hoping for steamy love scenes and unfortunately it was more fizzle than sizzle. The back story of the awkward feelings between Nate and Rachel wasn’t convincing, especially on Rachel’s part.
Overall Impression: White Heat was an okay read. It was a bit too long for my taste, especially with the lack of “heat” between the two main characters. Reading this book helped me figure out what I like and don’t like in a romantic suspense. I’m big on romance and unfortunately romance took a back seat in this book. If you’re looking for a book that focuses more on suspense and action, rather than romance, then White Heat is for you. Even though I didn’t love this book, I thought it was well written for the most part.
Why I Read this Book: I have been reading quite of few romantic suspense novels lately and what I found out is that I really enjoy reading this sub-genre. I am also fascinated with CSI and forensics. So when I came across this book, it caught my interest. Though, I was a bit concerned about the religious cult element and I had hoped it wouldn’t be too overbearing. So much for wishful thinking.
What I Liked: The plot was well thought out. The religious cult that the author created was scarily surreal. We hear about cults like these in the news from time to time and this author nailed it right on the head.
The infiltration process was interesting, exciting and felt like a dangerous thrill ride. I was turning page after page, on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out how things were going to end. Once the action started happening, there was no putting this book down.
What I Didn’t Like: White Heat was heavy on the religious cult, and I mean lay it on thick heavy! Yes, I know that was the plot of the story before going in but it was a bit overwhelming.
I love tension, especially between the two main characters, but the characters also need have to chemistry. The air was filled with thick tension between Nate and Rachel but I wasn’t feeling the chemistry. And the love scenes between them left more to be desired. They were short and not too telling. I was hoping for steamy love scenes and unfortunately it was more fizzle than sizzle. The back story of the awkward feelings between Nate and Rachel wasn’t convincing, especially on Rachel’s part.
Overall Impression: White Heat was an okay read. It was a bit too long for my taste, especially with the lack of “heat” between the two main characters. Reading this book helped me figure out what I like and don’t like in a romantic suspense. I’m big on romance and unfortunately romance took a back seat in this book. If you’re looking for a book that focuses more on suspense and action, rather than romance, then White Heat is for you. Even though I didn’t love this book, I thought it was well written for the most part.
July 28, 2010
Brenda Novak isn't kidding with this book. Ethan Wycliff is the dazzling religious leader of the Church of the Covenant which has raised suspicious all over town after the attempted stoning of one of their women – for sleeping with her husband. Another young woman has gone missing and her parents aren't leaving the Covenanters alone until they find her.
In steps Department 6 – a group of retired special forces men and women, police officers, and investigators, where both Rachel and Nate work. Rachel has a massive crush on Nate and they've never had to work the same case because of it. And Nate isn't as indifferent to Rachel as he has lead her to believe. Oh, did I mention that Nate is Rachel's boss?
They immediately travel to Paradise, AZ, an isolated town in the middle of the desert, where the cult is located and Rachel is brought into the cult. The danger is that this group believes in both drugs and indiscriminate sex, and Rachel may have to participate in both in order to fit in.
The people in this cult are C-R-A-Z-Y. I don't know how this book could have been written any better. The descriptions are realistic, the twists and turns are amazing and never what you'd guess, and the way the leaders of the cult are able to attract members just blows my mind. Seriously – there are group out there just like this one, and they have got to prey on some weakness in a person's life in order to assert so much control over them.
Consider that the cult was formed by some frat brothers, on a whim, while in the woods one day, and it now has about 200 followers all living inside the compound and following their rules and laws. And that they believe that this is the way to get to heaven. And that they sleep around – because it's sanctioned by God. This is a doozy!
BUT, the best part is the on-again off-again relationship between Nate and Rachel. Nate isn't ready for a relationship after the way his last one ended, and Rachel is so over Nate that it doesn't bother her a bit that they're living as man and wife. Or so she says.
White Heat was released today, July 27th, and is the first book in the trilogy. Body Heat will be released in September. And Killer Heat will be released in October. I can't wait to read the next two books.
May 20, 2010
Another chilling romantic suspense read from Brenda Novak. When Nate and Rachel are sent by the private security firm they work for to infiltrate an Arizona cult, they know it's going to be tough. Since the two shared a night of passion six months ago, that ended badly, neither of them is looking forward to the assignment which will include their posing as a young married couple interested in joining the cult. Rachel, whose father was a religious zealot knows it won't be easy, but neither of them know how deadly this particular group, known as Paradise, has become. WHITE HEAT is a disturbing story of what can happen when the people in control start to enjoy their power a little too much, and when the followers follow orders no matter wrong they seem. The relationship between Nate and Rachel takes a back burner to the suspense plot in this one, and the ending felt a little too neatly wrapped. Even so it was a good suspenseful read that kept me turning the pages well past bed time.
September 7, 2010
A combination of romance novel, mystery, and soft core pornography.
March 17, 2025
4.5
This was phenomenal.
I’m sure the people who didn’t like this, didn’t because they wanted a romance with a side of suspense. Instead of a suspense with a side of romance.
Rachel and Nate went on instinct and I found it strange how they didn’t need to check in very often. However, they were in the middle of nowhere and I think private agencies have more leeway in making their own choices. This is reinforced in the novel by how their boss didn’t seem to really care about their wellbeing.
In terms of not contacting local police that made sense because it was explained with you never know who’s in on/helping the cult. The cult is known for praying on grieving people and luring them in when most vulnerable. With that mindset, I still think Rachel should not have told Martha.
I wish we got an update about what happened to the cult members and Abby found out Nate was undercover. Also Country’s family getting closure. These things are implied but I would have liked an actual chapter tying up these loose ends. Similar to that, didn’t love the epilogue but the rest was so intense that it didn’t really matter.
This was phenomenal.
I’m sure the people who didn’t like this, didn’t because they wanted a romance with a side of suspense. Instead of a suspense with a side of romance.
Rachel and Nate went on instinct and I found it strange how they didn’t need to check in very often. However, they were in the middle of nowhere and I think private agencies have more leeway in making their own choices. This is reinforced in the novel by how their boss didn’t seem to really care about their wellbeing.
In terms of not contacting local police that made sense because it was explained with you never know who’s in on/helping the cult. The cult is known for praying on grieving people and luring them in when most vulnerable. With that mindset, I still think Rachel should not have told Martha.
I wish we got an update about what happened to the cult members and Abby found out Nate was undercover. Also Country’s family getting closure. These things are implied but I would have liked an actual chapter tying up these loose ends. Similar to that, didn’t love the epilogue but the rest was so intense that it didn’t really matter.
November 16, 2020
Well, it took me month to finish this book. It’s more than shitty, really disappointing.
April 18, 2022
Io credo che una roba più brutta e trash di questa non l'ho mai letta.
August 13, 2010
I love Brenda Novak. I started reading her when she was still writing Harlequin’s. Her first few romance suspense books didn’t impress me, but I’ve always liked her writing style. Sticking with her was a good choice. She is now an auto-buy author for me. The characters she writes are simply amazing. Some of the things that they have gone through and still must go through makes you want to keep reading.
This is the first book in her new Dept. 6 Hired Gun series. It’s a weird name. Quite a mouthful. The book opens when Nate Ferrentino tells Rachel Jessop that they are going undercover together to bring down a cult that call themselves the Church of the Covenant. The plan is to go in as husband and wife, which is the very last thing that Rachel wants. After a night six months ago where Rachel offered Nate everything of herself and was consequently rejected, the last thing she wants to do is pretend to be married to Nate.
Nate hasn’t forgotten the night that Rachel surprised him by showing up naked in his bed. When she declared her love for him, it spooked Nate like nothing else could. Since then, Rachel has played it cool with him and Nate has played along. Going undercover as a married couple means that he can’t pretend nothing happened nor can he deny that he still thinks about that night with Rachel.
Rachel grew up in a religious cult that her father ran. She left when she was seventeen and never looked back. Growing up the way she did changed her perception of everything. Thanks to her father, Rachel has virtually no life experience. Maybe if she did, she wouldn’t have blurted out her feelings of lurve to Nate.
The cult. Holy Mother. I felt like I was inside the walls, that’s how well it was written. There were sex, drugs, praying, and sacrificing. Ethan Wycliff has a magnetism about him that Rachel can see the moment she lays eyes on him. Even all of her hang-ups with religion can’ t stop her from responding to Ethan. It’s only when she’s removed from him that she can see what a manipulative man he is.
They first go in to find a missing girl that went into the compound and was never seen again. By the end, they’re looking for three missing women. Rachel has to get inside the walls without Nate, who hates the idea of Rachel anywhere near Ethan Wycliff. Nate tries to tell himself that he would feel the same about any operative going in, but he knows it’s not the truth. After living with Rachel and being in close contact with her for days, he knows that he feels more than friendship for her. By the time Nate realizes how he feels about Rachel, it might be too late.
Getting into the mind of Ethan Wycliff really made this book better than it would have been without his pov. I found his lack of compassion and narcissism hard to stomach, but it was undeniable that he had absolute power over the entire cult. It really was chilling.
Read it.
4.25 out of 5.
This is the first book in her new Dept. 6 Hired Gun series. It’s a weird name. Quite a mouthful. The book opens when Nate Ferrentino tells Rachel Jessop that they are going undercover together to bring down a cult that call themselves the Church of the Covenant. The plan is to go in as husband and wife, which is the very last thing that Rachel wants. After a night six months ago where Rachel offered Nate everything of herself and was consequently rejected, the last thing she wants to do is pretend to be married to Nate.
Nate hasn’t forgotten the night that Rachel surprised him by showing up naked in his bed. When she declared her love for him, it spooked Nate like nothing else could. Since then, Rachel has played it cool with him and Nate has played along. Going undercover as a married couple means that he can’t pretend nothing happened nor can he deny that he still thinks about that night with Rachel.
Rachel grew up in a religious cult that her father ran. She left when she was seventeen and never looked back. Growing up the way she did changed her perception of everything. Thanks to her father, Rachel has virtually no life experience. Maybe if she did, she wouldn’t have blurted out her feelings of lurve to Nate.
The cult. Holy Mother. I felt like I was inside the walls, that’s how well it was written. There were sex, drugs, praying, and sacrificing. Ethan Wycliff has a magnetism about him that Rachel can see the moment she lays eyes on him. Even all of her hang-ups with religion can’ t stop her from responding to Ethan. It’s only when she’s removed from him that she can see what a manipulative man he is.
They first go in to find a missing girl that went into the compound and was never seen again. By the end, they’re looking for three missing women. Rachel has to get inside the walls without Nate, who hates the idea of Rachel anywhere near Ethan Wycliff. Nate tries to tell himself that he would feel the same about any operative going in, but he knows it’s not the truth. After living with Rachel and being in close contact with her for days, he knows that he feels more than friendship for her. By the time Nate realizes how he feels about Rachel, it might be too late.
Getting into the mind of Ethan Wycliff really made this book better than it would have been without his pov. I found his lack of compassion and narcissism hard to stomach, but it was undeniable that he had absolute power over the entire cult. It really was chilling.
Read it.
4.25 out of 5.
August 8, 2010
My thoughts:
The storyline of White Heat caught and kept my attention: Private investigators infiltrating a religous cult (the "Covenanteers") to find missing women and bring the cult down if indeed there are shenanigans afoot (and you just know there are!). The investigators who are playing husband/wife, Nate and Rachel, have a weird history both apart and together. I'm not sure how to go into it without spoilers but here goes:
Rachel's father was a religious zealot/cult leader and she left when she was 17. She eventually would up woking for Deartment 6 after a stint in the police force. Nate had a previous relationship that went badly at the end and therefore refuses to get emotionally close to another woman. Approximately six months before the events in this story, Rachel "surprised" Nate by being naked in his bed when he got home from work; their differing reactions the next day have left both Rachel and Nate embarassed and distant. Because of this, they're both uncomfortable about posing as husband and wife in the deserted town the Covenenteers call home.
The Covenenteers were all I knew they'd be: Crazy leader, subjugation of women, bizarre sexual practices, weapon stockpiling, "blind" followers. Ethan, the cult's leader, was so good as a bad guy...and he was a bad guy, no matter how he tried to spin it. His assistant, Bart was equally creepy. I followed the cult storyline to the end, watching it play out to the final showown. (The only weird thing was that the author stressed that Bart was impotent, which I thought was weird in a cult that centered around sexual practices as rituals.)
The Rachel/Nate storyline was not as strong. It was hot and cold and for me didn't make a lot of sense - Rachel and Nate were attracted to each other but because of their previous "incident" didn't act on it. Except that when Nate did try to act on it, I kept thinking why now? I didn't see where it was imperitave to their investigation. Rachel's actions in response to his romantic attempts were not consistent, in my opinion. By the end of the story I think their actions were a bit more believable, but it was a strange journey to get there.
This was my first read by Brenda Novak and therefore I wasn't sure what to expect. Although I had a few little niggles about this book, overall I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next two books in the series: Body Heat (September 2010) and Killer Heat (October 2010).
The storyline of White Heat caught and kept my attention: Private investigators infiltrating a religous cult (the "Covenanteers") to find missing women and bring the cult down if indeed there are shenanigans afoot (and you just know there are!). The investigators who are playing husband/wife, Nate and Rachel, have a weird history both apart and together. I'm not sure how to go into it without spoilers but here goes:
Rachel's father was a religious zealot/cult leader and she left when she was 17. She eventually would up woking for Deartment 6 after a stint in the police force. Nate had a previous relationship that went badly at the end and therefore refuses to get emotionally close to another woman. Approximately six months before the events in this story, Rachel "surprised" Nate by being naked in his bed when he got home from work; their differing reactions the next day have left both Rachel and Nate embarassed and distant. Because of this, they're both uncomfortable about posing as husband and wife in the deserted town the Covenenteers call home.
The Covenenteers were all I knew they'd be: Crazy leader, subjugation of women, bizarre sexual practices, weapon stockpiling, "blind" followers. Ethan, the cult's leader, was so good as a bad guy...and he was a bad guy, no matter how he tried to spin it. His assistant, Bart was equally creepy. I followed the cult storyline to the end, watching it play out to the final showown. (The only weird thing was that the author stressed that Bart was impotent, which I thought was weird in a cult that centered around sexual practices as rituals.)
The Rachel/Nate storyline was not as strong. It was hot and cold and for me didn't make a lot of sense - Rachel and Nate were attracted to each other but because of their previous "incident" didn't act on it. Except that when Nate did try to act on it, I kept thinking why now? I didn't see where it was imperitave to their investigation. Rachel's actions in response to his romantic attempts were not consistent, in my opinion. By the end of the story I think their actions were a bit more believable, but it was a strange journey to get there.
This was my first read by Brenda Novak and therefore I wasn't sure what to expect. Although I had a few little niggles about this book, overall I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next two books in the series: Body Heat (September 2010) and Killer Heat (October 2010).
July 19, 2010
It was a horrible experience that jump-started New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Brenda Novak's career-- she caught her daycare teacher drugging her children to get them to sleep. Deciding she needed to work from home, she penned her first novel, and has been a sensation ever since. Other titles include: Trust Me, Watch Me, Stop Me, Dead Silence, Dead Giveaway, Dead Right, The Perfect Couple, The Perfect Murder, and The Perfect Liar. She also heads an annual fundraiser for diabetes research every May. Brenda resides in Sacramento, California with her husband and five children.
A dangerous and elusive cult has taken over the ghost town of Paradise, Arizona. Members worship at the feet, and bed, of their leader, Ethan Wycliff. But a woman has escaped, relaying a horrid ordeal of what really goes on inside their gates, worse than what anyone can fathom. Now, another woman has gone missing. A private security contractor known as Department 6 has been assigned to infiltrate the cult and bring them down. Nate Ferrentino and Rachel Jessop aren't too happy about this mission, especially because their shared history could put a wedge in plans or expose them to further danger. Posing as a married couple is their only shot at stopping the madness before more people die. And as more secrets are revealed, it seems as if Rachel might be next.
This is book one in this new series, with Body Heat coming in September, and Killer Heat in October of this year.
There are many things to love about Brenda Novak's writing-- her characters are always fresh, the danger real, the plot well-paced, the romance hot, the setting ideal, and the action gripping. But what I love most is that readers are inside the heads of the "bad guys" as often as the "good guys." It makes for a well-balanced compelling read, and, at times, feeling for the villains. Setting this book in a desert ghost town couldn't have been more perfect, as it gives the reader a real sense of isolation and aloneness needed for this plot. I also bow down to the stellar array of secondary characters which made this all the more a page-turner. Lastly, though the lead characters were strong, Rachel isn't a hard-core heroine, nor Nate a dominant A-typical hero. A must read book to what's proving to be a must read series!
Kelly Moran
Author of SUMMER'S ROAD,
and Reviewer for Bookpleasures
A dangerous and elusive cult has taken over the ghost town of Paradise, Arizona. Members worship at the feet, and bed, of their leader, Ethan Wycliff. But a woman has escaped, relaying a horrid ordeal of what really goes on inside their gates, worse than what anyone can fathom. Now, another woman has gone missing. A private security contractor known as Department 6 has been assigned to infiltrate the cult and bring them down. Nate Ferrentino and Rachel Jessop aren't too happy about this mission, especially because their shared history could put a wedge in plans or expose them to further danger. Posing as a married couple is their only shot at stopping the madness before more people die. And as more secrets are revealed, it seems as if Rachel might be next.
This is book one in this new series, with Body Heat coming in September, and Killer Heat in October of this year.
There are many things to love about Brenda Novak's writing-- her characters are always fresh, the danger real, the plot well-paced, the romance hot, the setting ideal, and the action gripping. But what I love most is that readers are inside the heads of the "bad guys" as often as the "good guys." It makes for a well-balanced compelling read, and, at times, feeling for the villains. Setting this book in a desert ghost town couldn't have been more perfect, as it gives the reader a real sense of isolation and aloneness needed for this plot. I also bow down to the stellar array of secondary characters which made this all the more a page-turner. Lastly, though the lead characters were strong, Rachel isn't a hard-core heroine, nor Nate a dominant A-typical hero. A must read book to what's proving to be a must read series!
Kelly Moran
Author of SUMMER'S ROAD,
and Reviewer for Bookpleasures
July 23, 2010
Tendrils of barely contained tension fight to escape the pages as Novak—an expert in romantic suspense—introduces readers to her newest trilogy in “White Heat”. Building on the delicate balance of pressure, the layers seem to effortlessly slide into place creating the intricate balance required for excellence in suspense.
The stage is set as Rachel Jessop and Nate Ferrentino—private security contractors with Department 6—receive their risky assignment. Tasked with infiltrating a secretive and remote religious cult where one escapee claims to have been stoned and another is missing, the clear drawback for both is that they must go undercover as husband and wife. With their intimate past, the proposal is almost physically painful.
With limited communication to the outside world, Paradise, Arizona is the ideal base of operations for the Church of the Covenant and its imposing leader, Ethan Wycliff. Leading his sheep of more than two hundred strong, his charismatic convictions coupled with sharp good looks have allowed him to present himself as the messiah and his followers don’t dare question him. No deviance is out of bounds as long as the Alpha and Omega has commanded. Not fully prepared, Nate and Rachel don’t realize that they are soon slated for the highest honor in Ethan’s twisted world.
Infusing her creation with distinctive characters and a nail biting plot, Novak’s “White Heat” is flawless and easily a Best of 2010 contender.
Reviewed by Shannon Raab with Suspense Magazine
www.suspensemagazine.com
The stage is set as Rachel Jessop and Nate Ferrentino—private security contractors with Department 6—receive their risky assignment. Tasked with infiltrating a secretive and remote religious cult where one escapee claims to have been stoned and another is missing, the clear drawback for both is that they must go undercover as husband and wife. With their intimate past, the proposal is almost physically painful.
With limited communication to the outside world, Paradise, Arizona is the ideal base of operations for the Church of the Covenant and its imposing leader, Ethan Wycliff. Leading his sheep of more than two hundred strong, his charismatic convictions coupled with sharp good looks have allowed him to present himself as the messiah and his followers don’t dare question him. No deviance is out of bounds as long as the Alpha and Omega has commanded. Not fully prepared, Nate and Rachel don’t realize that they are soon slated for the highest honor in Ethan’s twisted world.
Infusing her creation with distinctive characters and a nail biting plot, Novak’s “White Heat” is flawless and easily a Best of 2010 contender.
Reviewed by Shannon Raab with Suspense Magazine
www.suspensemagazine.com
February 2, 2011
White Heat is Book 1 in Brenda Novak’s new Department 6 series. Set in the SE Arizona desert, the fast-paced story involves a dangerous cult led by Ethan Wycliff, a former Charles Manson admirer. Wycliff has organized a religious group who call themselves the Church of the Covenant. The rituals they do are anything but Christian, but since Wycliff–the Holy One, the Alpha and Omega–exercises full control over his followers, no one seems to have the courage to leave.
One member has been stoned, another is missing. In order to stop the evil, Department 6 has sent Nate Ferrentino to discover what’s going on. Because only married couples are allowed into Paradise, the Covenanters’ domain, fellow agent Rachel Jessop is assigned to work with Nate. This proves problematic for both Nate and Rachel who have a shared history–one Rachel wishes she could forget.
Ms. Novak pens a gutsy suspense story, one that will keep you turning pages. Some of the topics are adult in nature but are handled with a deft hand and are appropriate to the plot. Both hero and heroine are sympathetic and believable, and while the activities of the cult seem almost over the top, they will remind you of recent news events involving cults.
Ethan is a complex villain, but don’t think you can suss out the conclusion. Ms. Novak offers twists and turn to keep you guessing.
A good cast of characters, a dynamic plot, a desert locale so real it’s a character in itself, and Novak’s usual smooth writing make gritty White Heat one of her best.
Two thumbs up.
One member has been stoned, another is missing. In order to stop the evil, Department 6 has sent Nate Ferrentino to discover what’s going on. Because only married couples are allowed into Paradise, the Covenanters’ domain, fellow agent Rachel Jessop is assigned to work with Nate. This proves problematic for both Nate and Rachel who have a shared history–one Rachel wishes she could forget.
Ms. Novak pens a gutsy suspense story, one that will keep you turning pages. Some of the topics are adult in nature but are handled with a deft hand and are appropriate to the plot. Both hero and heroine are sympathetic and believable, and while the activities of the cult seem almost over the top, they will remind you of recent news events involving cults.
Ethan is a complex villain, but don’t think you can suss out the conclusion. Ms. Novak offers twists and turn to keep you guessing.
A good cast of characters, a dynamic plot, a desert locale so real it’s a character in itself, and Novak’s usual smooth writing make gritty White Heat one of her best.
Two thumbs up.
November 6, 2015
Warning- possible spoilers
I feel I must first qualify my review by saying, prior to deciding to read this series, I was reading a lot of pure hard core Mystery/Suspense/Thrillers. When looking around for my next book/series, this series was recommenced and on sale. I have read multiple books by Brenda Novak before, so I immediately purchased the entire trilogy.
From almost the first chapter, this book was hard to get through. The the main female lead spends 99.9% of her time bemoaning an embarrassing encounter and acting irrationally because of it. The main male lead is so sexually drawn to the female lead that he can't do his job properly either. They are supposed to be elite operatives, specialized in undercover work and yet even the slightest tactical knowledge/planning is beyond them.
I realize there is a big difference between a Mystery/Suspense/Thriller and a Romance/Mystery/Suspense/Thriller. I generally quite like/love both. But this book doesn't have enough romance to qualify as a romance and any Mystery/Suspense/Thriller components are undermined by the actions of the characters.
This is a will they/won't they book with next to no actual romance or sexual tension. The few brief mentions of sex are anticlimactic and oddly timed.
The climax of the novel feels like she wrote herself into a corner so magically all the people who were their enemies magically saw the error of their ways and decided to help them instead.
I'm very torn as to if I even want to try the other two books in this series. This book was painful to get through.
I feel I must first qualify my review by saying, prior to deciding to read this series, I was reading a lot of pure hard core Mystery/Suspense/Thrillers. When looking around for my next book/series, this series was recommenced and on sale. I have read multiple books by Brenda Novak before, so I immediately purchased the entire trilogy.
From almost the first chapter, this book was hard to get through. The the main female lead spends 99.9% of her time bemoaning an embarrassing encounter and acting irrationally because of it. The main male lead is so sexually drawn to the female lead that he can't do his job properly either. They are supposed to be elite operatives, specialized in undercover work and yet even the slightest tactical knowledge/planning is beyond them.
I realize there is a big difference between a Mystery/Suspense/Thriller and a Romance/Mystery/Suspense/Thriller. I generally quite like/love both. But this book doesn't have enough romance to qualify as a romance and any Mystery/Suspense/Thriller components are undermined by the actions of the characters.
This is a will they/won't they book with next to no actual romance or sexual tension. The few brief mentions of sex are anticlimactic and oddly timed.
The climax of the novel feels like she wrote herself into a corner so magically all the people who were their enemies magically saw the error of their ways and decided to help them instead.
I'm very torn as to if I even want to try the other two books in this series. This book was painful to get through.
May 7, 2010
Nate Ferrentino and Rachel Jessop work for a private security company called Department 6. Their latest assignment is to stop Ethan Wycliff and his loyal followers of the Church of the Covenant. Ethan has a thing for women. Ethan idolized Charles Mason. Ethan is just as ruthless as Mason. He had his followers attempt to stone a woman to death.
The mission is really risky but nothing that Rachel can’t handle. Of course things would be a lot better if Rachel didn’t have to pretend to be wife to Nate. Especially after that one night together a long time ago.
A young girl has also gone missing. Nate and Rachel believe that Ethan is responsible for her disappearance. The Arizona desert is a huge area and if Rachel and Nate aren’t careful, they could end up buried six feet under.
White Heat is the start of a brand new trilogy by Brenda Novak. The summer may be ending but there is still plenty of heat to be found in White Heat. Clear off time from your busy schedule as time will fly as you get lost in this book. Nate and Rachel sizzled together. There wasn’t a moment throughout this book that I wasn’t intently engrossed in what was happening with the story line and Rachel and Nate. Rachel is fearless, which is the quality I liked the most in her. Nate is your typical hero. He is tall, dark and easy on the eyes. He can rescue me any day. White Heat delivers…the passion, heat, and adrenaline! I already have the next two books on pre-order.
The mission is really risky but nothing that Rachel can’t handle. Of course things would be a lot better if Rachel didn’t have to pretend to be wife to Nate. Especially after that one night together a long time ago.
A young girl has also gone missing. Nate and Rachel believe that Ethan is responsible for her disappearance. The Arizona desert is a huge area and if Rachel and Nate aren’t careful, they could end up buried six feet under.
White Heat is the start of a brand new trilogy by Brenda Novak. The summer may be ending but there is still plenty of heat to be found in White Heat. Clear off time from your busy schedule as time will fly as you get lost in this book. Nate and Rachel sizzled together. There wasn’t a moment throughout this book that I wasn’t intently engrossed in what was happening with the story line and Rachel and Nate. Rachel is fearless, which is the quality I liked the most in her. Nate is your typical hero. He is tall, dark and easy on the eyes. He can rescue me any day. White Heat delivers…the passion, heat, and adrenaline! I already have the next two books on pre-order.
August 31, 2015
Didn't make the mark in so many ways. The constant practically word-by-word replay of the main conflict (how many times do you have to tell the reader?) and the unbelievable/unprofessional actions of these supposedly super-trained elite force members (I'm not talking moral issues here but how many people they exposed themselves to as being undercover--NOT!) and the completely unsupported and basically unexplored end. The whole book built up to the end--of course, it's an action/thriller. For that to be so vaguely wrapped up in a page and then epiloged to some Harlequin Romance happy for ever after ending shows that Novak has no talent (in this book) for this particular genre. Mindless romance probably works for her, I haven't read her other books. And if that's what you are writing, fine on you. At least the reader is wanting that. But as an action book AND a romance this book never makes it.
I will says she does an excellent job of exploring/exploiting/delving into the cult aspect--pretty dead on there. Though, can't say it elicits much from myself as a reader--how, how, how could anyone? The constant question. Not badly done, just so out of my mindset that I didn't gain anything from reading about it. Just warped/hurting people making bad mistakes. I can watch reality TV if I want to experience that low grade.
I will says she does an excellent job of exploring/exploiting/delving into the cult aspect--pretty dead on there. Though, can't say it elicits much from myself as a reader--how, how, how could anyone? The constant question. Not badly done, just so out of my mindset that I didn't gain anything from reading about it. Just warped/hurting people making bad mistakes. I can watch reality TV if I want to experience that low grade.
January 24, 2017
White Heat is set in a small city called Paradise, home to a Christian sect.
Agent Rachel and Nate from Department 6 are hired to find out what sect leader Ethan is up too since a woman from the sect escaped and states she has been stoned.
Overall the book was good. A lot of times I got annoyed due to the main characters conservative thoughts. Nate really wasn't my type of hero. His thoughts off females is stone age old, and Rachel (who Ethan thinks is feminist) really didn’t live up to it. Their romance however was a good read, even if the epilogue made me raise my eyebrows (2 weeks after been shot with 2 bullets in the chest Nate is up hanging around like if nothing happened, Rachel is pregnant and they got engaged- fast much??)
I enjoyed reading about the sect, about Ethan and Bart and all the other members and how all of the members were so brainwashed while all the leaders knew the exact level of bullshit they preached. The book wasn’t too short or too long, and Brenda Novak has some real writing talents.
If the characters would have a more 21st century views on life (yes girls can fight, and no, when a girl says no the answer is no) I would rate it 5 stars, but because of the conservatism I rate it 4 stars.
Agent Rachel and Nate from Department 6 are hired to find out what sect leader Ethan is up too since a woman from the sect escaped and states she has been stoned.
Overall the book was good. A lot of times I got annoyed due to the main characters conservative thoughts. Nate really wasn't my type of hero. His thoughts off females is stone age old, and Rachel (who Ethan thinks is feminist) really didn’t live up to it. Their romance however was a good read, even if the epilogue made me raise my eyebrows (2 weeks after been shot with 2 bullets in the chest Nate is up hanging around like if nothing happened, Rachel is pregnant and they got engaged- fast much??)
I enjoyed reading about the sect, about Ethan and Bart and all the other members and how all of the members were so brainwashed while all the leaders knew the exact level of bullshit they preached. The book wasn’t too short or too long, and Brenda Novak has some real writing talents.
If the characters would have a more 21st century views on life (yes girls can fight, and no, when a girl says no the answer is no) I would rate it 5 stars, but because of the conservatism I rate it 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2015
White Heat by Brenda Novak
A contemporary romantic suspense novel where private security investigates and tries to infiltrate a closed religious compound. Rumors of orgies, stoning and a missing person make the self proclaimed leader the target of the investigation. Knowledge of the so called rituals made me worry about the heroine when she went in alone. Sexual history and tension between the hero and heroine made their cover as a couple believable.
Nate Ferrentino and Rachel Jessup work for a private investigation firm called Department 6. Together they must infiltrate a dangerous cult in Paradise, Arizona where only married couples are accepted.
Rachel had a difficult upbringing and is looking for love. Nate has been burned by a woman who supposedly loved him in the past and wants nothing to do with a relationship in his current life. They need to work together now. The harsh environment that they must work in drives the two closer as they realize there are still sparks between them that can't be ignored any longer.
A contemporary romantic suspense novel where private security investigates and tries to infiltrate a closed religious compound. Rumors of orgies, stoning and a missing person make the self proclaimed leader the target of the investigation. Knowledge of the so called rituals made me worry about the heroine when she went in alone. Sexual history and tension between the hero and heroine made their cover as a couple believable.
Nate Ferrentino and Rachel Jessup work for a private investigation firm called Department 6. Together they must infiltrate a dangerous cult in Paradise, Arizona where only married couples are accepted.
Rachel had a difficult upbringing and is looking for love. Nate has been burned by a woman who supposedly loved him in the past and wants nothing to do with a relationship in his current life. They need to work together now. The harsh environment that they must work in drives the two closer as they realize there are still sparks between them that can't be ignored any longer.
December 13, 2020
This was AWFUL. Rachel is the type of person that would fall for a cult leader; not one that could ever pass through the police academy or belongs in any private agency. She's an insecure, naive idiot who was unlikable; I was actually hoping the cult would just kill her which I doubt is what the author was going for.
And calling these two morons part of an "elite agency" was ridiculous. They were undercover but had no plan at all, told random people that they were undercover, and when finally on the cult site & could dig for details, their expert action was to have sex.
As for the "romance" aspect, Rachel doesn't seem capable of having an adult relationship with all of her issues. And Nate goes from not knowing her at all & not wanting an overly clingy/overly emotional girl hanging on to him after one round of sex to declaring his love for her; just completely unreal. This was such a disappointing book from Brenda Novak.
And calling these two morons part of an "elite agency" was ridiculous. They were undercover but had no plan at all, told random people that they were undercover, and when finally on the cult site & could dig for details, their expert action was to have sex.
As for the "romance" aspect, Rachel doesn't seem capable of having an adult relationship with all of her issues. And Nate goes from not knowing her at all & not wanting an overly clingy/overly emotional girl hanging on to him after one round of sex to declaring his love for her; just completely unreal. This was such a disappointing book from Brenda Novak.
January 23, 2012
Well, this was quite interesting! With this trilogoy I think we could read it in no particular order. Being the first one it just introduces you to the other characters. Unlike Cynthia Eden's Deadly series one relates to the next.
Paradise Arizona is sooo hot, it is "white hot". Nate and Rachel just happen to be paired up on an assignment pretending to be a couple.Their goal it to find out what happened to Martha. There are rumours going on at the PARADISE CLUB. Is the cult really cold blood and hearted?
How well is Rachel and Nate? Will they play a convincing role of husband and wife (even with a brief past). Will they get caught? how will they prove everyone's innocence? Will Ethan ever get exposed or will they put another persons life on the line?
I admit loved the ending...
Paradise Arizona is sooo hot, it is "white hot". Nate and Rachel just happen to be paired up on an assignment pretending to be a couple.Their goal it to find out what happened to Martha. There are rumours going on at the PARADISE CLUB. Is the cult really cold blood and hearted?
How well is Rachel and Nate? Will they play a convincing role of husband and wife (even with a brief past). Will they get caught? how will they prove everyone's innocence? Will Ethan ever get exposed or will they put another persons life on the line?
I admit loved the ending...
August 23, 2010
Well I ended up really enjoying this one and now I can't wait to read the next one in the trilogy!
I enjoyed Brenda's mix of romance and suspense very much but I'll say that there was MORE suspense/thriller to it than romance.
It was good though, because there was a ton of tension building between the two main characters which made you want to keep reading.
I liked the story line a lot! I've always found cult behavior quite interesting so this book kept my mind racing.
Overall, I had no complaints about this one and breathed a sigh of relief at the end since I was so "nervous" for the characters LOL! I can't wait to read the next one!
I enjoyed Brenda's mix of romance and suspense very much but I'll say that there was MORE suspense/thriller to it than romance.
It was good though, because there was a ton of tension building between the two main characters which made you want to keep reading.
I liked the story line a lot! I've always found cult behavior quite interesting so this book kept my mind racing.
Overall, I had no complaints about this one and breathed a sigh of relief at the end since I was so "nervous" for the characters LOL! I can't wait to read the next one!
July 17, 2011
The detail in this book and plot were amazing. Usually I don't care for so much in depth detail but I loved it in this book. It was just so well written! There is a good deal of focus on Nate and Rachel's relationship which is great but it's balanced with good details of their mission in Paradise, Arizona to infiltrate the cult of Ethan Wycliff. It's the perfect blend as neither side is neglected. They're woven together so well, you won't want to put it down until you've reached the end! Amazing read!
December 28, 2015
I was not interested in the characters or the bad guys.
I didn’t care about the characters. The climax and how it resolved seemed generic. I listened to the first third and then jumped to the last few chapters.
The audiobook narrator Cris Dukehart was ok in what I heard.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 11 hrs and 31 mins. Swearing language: none that I heard. Sexual content: probably at least one sex scene. Setting: current day mostly Arizona. Book copyright: 2010. Genre: romantic suspense.
I didn’t care about the characters. The climax and how it resolved seemed generic. I listened to the first third and then jumped to the last few chapters.
The audiobook narrator Cris Dukehart was ok in what I heard.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 11 hrs and 31 mins. Swearing language: none that I heard. Sexual content: probably at least one sex scene. Setting: current day mostly Arizona. Book copyright: 2010. Genre: romantic suspense.
August 24, 2014
Loved it!
I don't particularly like romantic suspense novels but this was a good read; not too much romance.
It was so well written that when I finished the last page I had to give myself a shake to bring me back from Portal, Willcox and Paradise and the people I'd met there.
Great storyline, great characters, fast paced with enough tension to make me hide my face in my hands and peek through my fingers!
Read
December 23, 2014Miniseries: Department 6 Novel
Category: Suspense
Category: Suspense
August 24, 2015
Two-haiku review:
Arizona cult
They both go undercover
As husband and wife
Exciting suspense
Scary--they had no backup
And suddenly love
Arizona cult
They both go undercover
As husband and wife
Exciting suspense
Scary--they had no backup
And suddenly love
July 21, 2020
I absolutely loved the „Bulletproof”-series by Brenda Novak. That is why I expected a lot from this romantic suspense series.
Unfortunately, White Heat didn’t live up to my expectations. There was a lot of tension in the suspense part and that was really well written, but unfortunately, I din’t like the romantic part. There was no chemistry between the main characters and the love-storyline almost seemed to be forced.
Long story short
Rachel and Nate are working as private investigators at Dept 6 and are sent on an assignment to infiltrate a religious cult. The cult is led by Ethan Wycliffe. As only married couples can enter the cult, Rachel and Nate must pretend to be married.
Half a year before this assignment Rachel surprised Nate by waiting in his bed when he came home. As Rachel and Nate reacted differently to this incident it is understandable, that going on the assignment as a married couple is rather difficult and might create some tension.
What I liked
The story was well written. The tension grew page after page as more details about the religious cult were uncovered. Rachels involvement with the cult grew, which added to the tension. The cult was so well written – I almost felt as if I were there to experience all of it.
What I didn’t like
The religious cult was the main focus and unfortunately that was present the whole time. The description of the relationship between Rachel and Nate was rather short. There was no chemistry between them. I didn’t care whether Rachel and Nate were together or not.
For readers who love the suspense part in a romantic suspense this is a go for. For me however – as I prefer a good mix of romantic and suspense – this book was too short on the romance and chemistry between the main characters.
Unfortunately, White Heat didn’t live up to my expectations. There was a lot of tension in the suspense part and that was really well written, but unfortunately, I din’t like the romantic part. There was no chemistry between the main characters and the love-storyline almost seemed to be forced.
Long story short
Rachel and Nate are working as private investigators at Dept 6 and are sent on an assignment to infiltrate a religious cult. The cult is led by Ethan Wycliffe. As only married couples can enter the cult, Rachel and Nate must pretend to be married.
Half a year before this assignment Rachel surprised Nate by waiting in his bed when he came home. As Rachel and Nate reacted differently to this incident it is understandable, that going on the assignment as a married couple is rather difficult and might create some tension.
What I liked
The story was well written. The tension grew page after page as more details about the religious cult were uncovered. Rachels involvement with the cult grew, which added to the tension. The cult was so well written – I almost felt as if I were there to experience all of it.
What I didn’t like
The religious cult was the main focus and unfortunately that was present the whole time. The description of the relationship between Rachel and Nate was rather short. There was no chemistry between them. I didn’t care whether Rachel and Nate were together or not.
For readers who love the suspense part in a romantic suspense this is a go for. For me however – as I prefer a good mix of romantic and suspense – this book was too short on the romance and chemistry between the main characters.
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