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Reluctant Heroes #1
Do or Die
Navy SEAL Ian Dunn went rogue in a big way when he turned his talents to a lawless life of jewel heists and con jobs. Or so the world has been led to believe. In reality, the former Special Ops warrior is still fighting for good, leading a small band of freelance covert operatives who take care of high-stakes business in highly unofficial ways. That makes Ian the hands-down choice when the U.S. government must breach a heavily guarded embassy and rescue a pair of children kidnapped by their own father, a sinister foreign national willing to turn his kids into casualties. Shockingly, Ian passes on the mission for reasons he will not—or cannot—reveal.
But saying no is not an option. Especially not for Phoebe Kruger, Ian's beautiful and unexpectedly brash new attorney. Determined to see the abducted children set free, Phoebe not only gets Ian on board but insists on riding shotgun on his Mission: Impossible-style operation, whether he likes it or not.
Though Phoebe has a valuable knack for getting out of tight spots, there's no denying the intensely intimate feelings growing between Ian and Phoebe as the team gears up for combat. But these are feelings they both must fight to control as they face an array of cold-blooded adversaries, including a vindictive mob boss who's got Ian at the top of his hit list and a wealthy psychopath who loves murder as much as he loves money. As they dodge death squads and play lethal games of deception, Ian and Phoebe will do whatever it takes to save the innocent and vanquish the guilty—or die trying.
But saying no is not an option. Especially not for Phoebe Kruger, Ian's beautiful and unexpectedly brash new attorney. Determined to see the abducted children set free, Phoebe not only gets Ian on board but insists on riding shotgun on his Mission: Impossible-style operation, whether he likes it or not.
Though Phoebe has a valuable knack for getting out of tight spots, there's no denying the intensely intimate feelings growing between Ian and Phoebe as the team gears up for combat. But these are feelings they both must fight to control as they face an array of cold-blooded adversaries, including a vindictive mob boss who's got Ian at the top of his hit list and a wealthy psychopath who loves murder as much as he loves money. As they dodge death squads and play lethal games of deception, Ian and Phoebe will do whatever it takes to save the innocent and vanquish the guilty—or die trying.
577 pages, ebook
First published February 4, 2014
424 people are currently reading
2950 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Brockmann
253 books3,568 followersAfter childhood plans to become the captain of a starship didn’t pan out, Suzanne Brockmann took her fascination with military history, her respect for the men and women who serve, her reverence for diversity, and her love of storytelling, and explored brave new worlds as a bestselling romance author.
Over the past thirty years she has written sixty-three novels, including her award-winning Troubleshooters series about Navy SEAL heroes and the women—and sometimes men—who win their hearts. Her personal favorite is the one where her most popular character, gay FBI agent Jules Cassidy, wins his happily-ever-after and marries the man of his dreams. Called All Through the Night, this mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero hit the New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list. In 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts.
In addition to writing books, Suz writes and produces indie movies and TV including the award-winning romantic comedy The Perfect Wedding. Her recent feature, Out of Body, is streaming on Amazon Prime.
In 2018, Suz was given the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award from the Romance Writers of America. Her latest projects are Blame It on Rio (Tall, Dark & Dangerous # 14), available in print and e-book from Suzanne Brockmann Books, and Marriage of Inconvenience, a six-episode LBGTQ rom-com TV series, streaming on Dekkoo in April 2023.
Over the past thirty years she has written sixty-three novels, including her award-winning Troubleshooters series about Navy SEAL heroes and the women—and sometimes men—who win their hearts. Her personal favorite is the one where her most popular character, gay FBI agent Jules Cassidy, wins his happily-ever-after and marries the man of his dreams. Called All Through the Night, this mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero hit the New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list. In 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts.
In addition to writing books, Suz writes and produces indie movies and TV including the award-winning romantic comedy The Perfect Wedding. Her recent feature, Out of Body, is streaming on Amazon Prime.
In 2018, Suz was given the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award from the Romance Writers of America. Her latest projects are Blame It on Rio (Tall, Dark & Dangerous # 14), available in print and e-book from Suzanne Brockmann Books, and Marriage of Inconvenience, a six-episode LBGTQ rom-com TV series, streaming on Dekkoo in April 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 641 reviews
August 5, 2016
3.5 'Strong Potential But Missed the Mark' Stars.
Great action, tons of rescues, and a steamy romance, but with multiple scattered storylines and a motley crew of secondary characters that are not so easy to like.
Good news: Of all the books Brockmann has written post Troubleshooters series, this is my favorite so far.
Bad news: However, this new series is not on the same par as TS. At least not yet. And don't be fooled that this is a TS spin-off, because it is not.
Is Do or Die a TroubleShooters spin-off?
DO OR DIE is a *loose* spin off of the Troubleshooters series, and shares the same fictional terrorist country of Kazbekistan. A few of the more familiar names from the TS series are dropped, but none of them make an appearance. So if you have never read the TS series, you will have no problem following this story. But if you want some reunion time with past TS characters you will be disappointed.
The Story
Prologue: This story opens with a fun, over-the-top, intense nail-biting scene where he shows off his charm and abilities. Ian is a former Navy SEAL seemingly living a shady lifestyle, and we get to see that in full action. (I had high hopes at this point, then unfortunately it goes into a long lull until nearly the halfway point when things pick up again.)
Chapter 1 and beyond: Fast forward a few years...
Ian is released from jail against his will, and his brand new lawyer (which he never wanted!) Phoebe is certain there is more to his case than Ian lets on. These two soon become tangled in a game of hide and chase with a string of bad guys. Ian's own family is embroiled in a scandal that puts his brothers family at risk, and leaves Ian taking the blame for crimes he might not have committed.
Phoebe is a smart lawyer but she is new to this job, which means she may understand the textbook laws but doesn't always recognize the shenanigans of the bad guys. She quickly finds herself a target, and Ian her protector.
These two soon find themselves in hiding, being chased, and of course being rescued until they can form a plan and group with the right people to help them. Secondary characters begin to join in and help these two out, some from the lawful side (FBI) and some from the shady side of the law.
The story continues with more and more chasing, rescuing, and near misses. Threats are made, more sub-plots are revealed, and a we get a lot of sexy flirting between Ian and Pheobe. More and more plots are unveiled throughout the book, which keeps the Ian and Phoebe moving and facing more and more enemies. And of course, more rescues!
The main plot comes late, but in it Ian, Phoebe, and their motley crew of shady secondary characters are all tasked with rescuing a few kidnapped children. Meanwhile Ian is still trying to keep his brother safe from a mob family bent on killing him, so the stakes in this story soon get very high indeed.
My Thoughts
Despite the fast paced storyline and a solid romance, it actually left me bored for nearly the first half of the book. The main part of the story doesn't come until halfway through the book, which I think is part of why the first half felt so slow. I couldn't figure out where the story was going. Thankfully, it does pick up in the later half.
This story is filled with rescues, rescues, more rescues, and finally... more rescues!! And when the romance between Ian and Phoebe heat up, I thought it was the best part of the book. The suspense storyline and the secondary story lines weren't nearly as interesting. In fact, I thought the secondary characters were all a bit depressing.
Part of my issue is this book has 'first-book-itis'; trying too hard to set up a new series and getting bogged down with multiple (and often boring) threads introducing so many characters.
Through much of the book I wondered if he is more of a Robin Hood type, or simply just a criminal hood? (Honestly, I am not sure we ever get a clear answer!) There are many layers to his motivations of being a criminal, and I believed his intentions are good, but none-the-less he is a law breaker. Phoebe is his lawyer, who gets pulled into a fast paced drama and quickly finds herself under Ian's protection.
I wish I could say I liked and cared for most of the secondary characters, but I can't. They bickered too much, and with some exceptions they were not genuinely nice or interesting people. Nor can I say that I wish any one of them would get their own book, because I don't. I have no idea who will be the H/h of the next in the series, but if it is any of the characters we have already met I may not be up for reading it.
Overall, this was a good romance story. I think Brockmann is setting up this series to center around an agency that is similar to Troubleshooters, but this time mixing it up with some shady characters who are not the decorated war hero types. The series has a promise of being gritty, which I hope it achieves. I enjoyed this book, but am on the fence if this could turn into a solid series on par with Troubleshooters.
3.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley.com
January 24, 2014
It's a Troubleshooters SPINOFF series! Holy swoon...I think I'm gonna cry.
3.5 stars
This book definitely has a classic Suzanne Brockmann feel to it. I got the notion here that she has a nice long list of characters ready to have their stories told. So while it makes me excited for the good things to come, it sure seemed to drag this story out for awhile. This is a loooong genre book.
The first half did get a bit tiresome, what with all of the introductions and minor details. But once the meat of the story really begins, it was pretty much nonstop action from then on. Brockmann does action SO WELL, especially paired with the sexy romance. There's a scene in here where they are running from the bad guys and get stuck in very close contact with each other...whew! Gives a whole new meaning to sexual chemistry in the heat of the moment. Another thing I loved about this book is how Ian and Phoebe come to admire each other because of what they witness in each other during the course of the story. They start off somewhat apprehensive...Phoebe is a lawyer, Ian is an ex-SEAL turned convict. Total opposites. But by the end, they not only gain a partner that compliments them, but they have a healthy respect for one another.
Ian is an alpha male, of course, but not so much a chauvinist as is popular in contemporary romance the last few years. This is a guy I could actually like in REAL life, despite some obvious flaws.
ARC provided by Random House via Net Galley
3.5 stars
This book definitely has a classic Suzanne Brockmann feel to it. I got the notion here that she has a nice long list of characters ready to have their stories told. So while it makes me excited for the good things to come, it sure seemed to drag this story out for awhile. This is a loooong genre book.
The first half did get a bit tiresome, what with all of the introductions and minor details. But once the meat of the story really begins, it was pretty much nonstop action from then on. Brockmann does action SO WELL, especially paired with the sexy romance. There's a scene in here where they are running from the bad guys and get stuck in very close contact with each other...whew! Gives a whole new meaning to sexual chemistry in the heat of the moment. Another thing I loved about this book is how Ian and Phoebe come to admire each other because of what they witness in each other during the course of the story. They start off somewhat apprehensive...Phoebe is a lawyer, Ian is an ex-SEAL turned convict. Total opposites. But by the end, they not only gain a partner that compliments them, but they have a healthy respect for one another.
Ian is an alpha male, of course, but not so much a chauvinist as is popular in contemporary romance the last few years. This is a guy I could actually like in REAL life, despite some obvious flaws.
ARC provided by Random House via Net Galley
October 24, 2013
I did a complete 180 with this book. At first, I had trouble following it--I found it confusing and dare I say a little boring? And I wasn't at all sure that I liked the hero. I don't want my Navy SEAL hero to be on the wrong side of the law, you know? So I almost gave up on the book (even though I knew I wouldn't).:)
However...this book got waaay better at about the 1/3 point, and oh my god, once the hero and heroine "got physical" (and man, did they ever have some chemistry!) I couldn't put it down! Everything fell into place and became a heck of a lot clearer, and became like one of those Brockmann books that have you on the edge of your seat. Oh my, Ian and Phoebe... Yum! 4 1/2 stars
Full review closer to release date...
*ARC provided by Random House through NetGalley
However...this book got waaay better at about the 1/3 point, and oh my god, once the hero and heroine "got physical" (and man, did they ever have some chemistry!) I couldn't put it down! Everything fell into place and became a heck of a lot clearer, and became like one of those Brockmann books that have you on the edge of your seat. Oh my, Ian and Phoebe... Yum! 4 1/2 stars
Full review closer to release date...
*ARC provided by Random House through NetGalley
January 28, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I ended up really liking this one. I feel like this book has been sitting on my virtual shelves forever. I am so glad that I finally decided to tackle it. It has been a long time since I read any of this author’s work but I found this to be rather enjoyable.
Ian and Phoebe were great characters and I liked the dynamic between them. I really liked the rest of the team as well and thought that they added a lot to the story. I found the book to be rather exciting with quite a bit of action to keep the plot moving along. Ian was almost superhuman and it seemed that he could almost do anything. Phoebe was smart but she didn’t always fully understand the situation which got her in trouble on more than one occasion. My only complaint would be that the book felt overly long at times. There was a lot going on in this book and I really felt like some of the sub-plots probably should have been cut to streamline the book just a bit.
I thought that Patrick Lawlor and Melanie Ewbank did a great job with the narration. I liked the various voices that both of them used. I liked the way they were able to add a bit of excitement and emotion to the story through their reading. I thought that their voices worked really well for this book and they both made the characters they represented feel very real. I believe that their narration added to my overall enjoyment of the story.
I would recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense. There is a lot of action and excitement in this story which is nicely balanced with the romance. I would definitely read more of this talented author’s work.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Ballantine Books and borrowed a copy of the audiobook from my local library.
I ended up really liking this one. I feel like this book has been sitting on my virtual shelves forever. I am so glad that I finally decided to tackle it. It has been a long time since I read any of this author’s work but I found this to be rather enjoyable.
Ian and Phoebe were great characters and I liked the dynamic between them. I really liked the rest of the team as well and thought that they added a lot to the story. I found the book to be rather exciting with quite a bit of action to keep the plot moving along. Ian was almost superhuman and it seemed that he could almost do anything. Phoebe was smart but she didn’t always fully understand the situation which got her in trouble on more than one occasion. My only complaint would be that the book felt overly long at times. There was a lot going on in this book and I really felt like some of the sub-plots probably should have been cut to streamline the book just a bit.
I thought that Patrick Lawlor and Melanie Ewbank did a great job with the narration. I liked the various voices that both of them used. I liked the way they were able to add a bit of excitement and emotion to the story through their reading. I thought that their voices worked really well for this book and they both made the characters they represented feel very real. I believe that their narration added to my overall enjoyment of the story.
I would recommend this book to fans of romantic suspense. There is a lot of action and excitement in this story which is nicely balanced with the romance. I would definitely read more of this talented author’s work.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Ballantine Books and borrowed a copy of the audiobook from my local library.
March 26, 2015
1.5 stars
I made it to 87% and found myself doing anything to not listen to another word from Phoebe the female MC. She started out okay, she was educated, well spoken, a lawyer. She slowly lost her brain cells. She went into dangerous situations thinking she was the only one who could save the day, not with her lawyer skills no her womanly skills. Pfffft !
She walks into situation after situation, without any kind of common sense. She talks BS non stop when the guy who knows what he's doing is telling her to shut it. Her sex scenes had my body saying NO, EWWW. I don't know if it was the narrators voice or her choice or wording but I'd label it birth control, no mood maker here. I think you can get the idea about how I feel about Phoebe. She ruined the story.
The rest of the story ? It was okay, semi predictable to the point I got to. I liked his brother and his husband but then they went all whine-a thon and wore out their welcome too.
I don't care about any of them so I am dropping it and finding something more to my taste.
I made it to 87% and found myself doing anything to not listen to another word from Phoebe the female MC. She started out okay, she was educated, well spoken, a lawyer. She slowly lost her brain cells. She went into dangerous situations thinking she was the only one who could save the day, not with her lawyer skills no her womanly skills. Pfffft !
She walks into situation after situation, without any kind of common sense. She talks BS non stop when the guy who knows what he's doing is telling her to shut it. Her sex scenes had my body saying NO, EWWW. I don't know if it was the narrators voice or her choice or wording but I'd label it birth control, no mood maker here. I think you can get the idea about how I feel about Phoebe. She ruined the story.
The rest of the story ? It was okay, semi predictable to the point I got to. I liked his brother and his husband but then they went all whine-a thon and wore out their welcome too.
I don't care about any of them so I am dropping it and finding something more to my taste.
September 2, 2016
Originally posted at The Book Nympho
The set up
Ian Dunn is a former Navy SEAL suspected of being a jewel thief and operating on the wrong side of the law. When he's offered a deal to help the Feds rescue two abducted children, Ian tries to take a pass but his new attorney, Phoebe Kruger, won't take no for an answer. She unwittingly sets off a chain of events that puts Ian and people close to him in imminent danger.
The issues
Phoebe doesn't know if she can believe or trust Ian and is determined to stick with him through the mission. He wants her out of his way as he's got to do damage control to keep those close to him alive. And, there's also no denying their attraction to each other, which can only complicate the huge mess Ian has to resolve. He's juggling the Fed's mission while covertly taking care of his own personal agenda.
What I loved about this story
The action starts right at the beginning of the story with a mission in progress that hits a snag. Next came the intrigue with Ian's puzzling reaction to the Fed's request for help and his curious actions following Phoebe's deal making. Then the banter between the two sets off a dance that is destined to lead to a steamy romance. I was hooked from the start and settled in for a wild ride.
Everything about this story worked. Ian is an enigma, an attractive and sexy one at that. He seems easygoing on the surface but is resourceful and extremely loyal. Phoebe had an early "too stupid to live" moment but redeemed herself soon after. Yes, she's beautiful but she's bright and isn't fooled or intimidated by the cagey Ian. There are so many twists and surprises you feel like you're watching an action film and can't even blink lest you miss something. The suspense level is painful because my pulse was rapid from beginning to end. Sometimes the villains were obvious but most of the time, I was unsure of who could be trusted.
There are other romances that were a pleasant surprise but I don't want to spoil it here. Just trust me...please:) It's a big twist that I loved discovering and I believe you will, too.
Troubleshooters spinoff?
You bet it is! I'm a HUGE fan of Brockmann's Troubleshooters series and recently moaned about wanting more of the books. Well, this new series certainly lives up to all that I love about those stories. There are some crossover characters but, no worries about needing to read that series before this one. They're completely described here and it's sufficient. The action is nonstop, the romance passionate, complicated, fun and steamy. Check and check. All staples of Troubleshooters. If you haven't read that series you've missed some incredible stories.
The bottom line
I didn't think there could be a series that could come close to comparing to my beloved Troubleshooters series so this was a treat. It's a long, complicated story with quite a few subplots and secondary relationships and that just makes it delectable. The climax is exciting with a few twists I didn't anticipate. The romance is hot and Ian and Phoebe are great characters. It was a story I was sorry to see end. Bring on the book number two. This is going to be a hit.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
The set up
Ian Dunn is a former Navy SEAL suspected of being a jewel thief and operating on the wrong side of the law. When he's offered a deal to help the Feds rescue two abducted children, Ian tries to take a pass but his new attorney, Phoebe Kruger, won't take no for an answer. She unwittingly sets off a chain of events that puts Ian and people close to him in imminent danger.
The issues
Phoebe doesn't know if she can believe or trust Ian and is determined to stick with him through the mission. He wants her out of his way as he's got to do damage control to keep those close to him alive. And, there's also no denying their attraction to each other, which can only complicate the huge mess Ian has to resolve. He's juggling the Fed's mission while covertly taking care of his own personal agenda.
What I loved about this story
The action starts right at the beginning of the story with a mission in progress that hits a snag. Next came the intrigue with Ian's puzzling reaction to the Fed's request for help and his curious actions following Phoebe's deal making. Then the banter between the two sets off a dance that is destined to lead to a steamy romance. I was hooked from the start and settled in for a wild ride.
Everything about this story worked. Ian is an enigma, an attractive and sexy one at that. He seems easygoing on the surface but is resourceful and extremely loyal. Phoebe had an early "too stupid to live" moment but redeemed herself soon after. Yes, she's beautiful but she's bright and isn't fooled or intimidated by the cagey Ian. There are so many twists and surprises you feel like you're watching an action film and can't even blink lest you miss something. The suspense level is painful because my pulse was rapid from beginning to end. Sometimes the villains were obvious but most of the time, I was unsure of who could be trusted.
There are other romances that were a pleasant surprise but I don't want to spoil it here. Just trust me...please:) It's a big twist that I loved discovering and I believe you will, too.
Troubleshooters spinoff?
You bet it is! I'm a HUGE fan of Brockmann's Troubleshooters series and recently moaned about wanting more of the books. Well, this new series certainly lives up to all that I love about those stories. There are some crossover characters but, no worries about needing to read that series before this one. They're completely described here and it's sufficient. The action is nonstop, the romance passionate, complicated, fun and steamy. Check and check. All staples of Troubleshooters. If you haven't read that series you've missed some incredible stories.
The bottom line
I didn't think there could be a series that could come close to comparing to my beloved Troubleshooters series so this was a treat. It's a long, complicated story with quite a few subplots and secondary relationships and that just makes it delectable. The climax is exciting with a few twists I didn't anticipate. The romance is hot and Ian and Phoebe are great characters. It was a story I was sorry to see end. Bring on the book number two. This is going to be a hit.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
February 5, 2014
Another disappointment from an author I used to LOVE. Far too much time spent on secondary characters. Not enough character development of primary couple (Ian & Phoebe) and almost no back-story made it hard to understand their motivations and actions. No explanation why Ian left the Teams or much about his motivation to join the Navy and almost nothing at all about Phoebe. None of the characters are very developed and many verge on being complete stereotypes.
August 25, 2018
The 1st part of this book was kinda dry, but the 2nd had me binge reading. The H is an alpha male who has several flaws but a hidden kind heart. The h is a sassy but soft lady. I enjoyed all the other characters as well. Lots of action in the 2nd half.
February 16, 2014
Three and a half stars.
I love Suzanne Brockmann. Her books are action-packed, humorous and have some of the most endearing characters in any novels I've read (those of you who are familiar with Jules Cassidy will know what I mean.) However, while this book certainly contained plenty of action, and while I liked the main two characters well enough, the secondary characters (with the exception of Martel Griffin)were, well, rather unlikable. The female characters, as opposed to being simply strong women, seemed to have feminist chips on their shoulders the size of small planets.
That brings us to the gay couple, Aaron and Shel. I have zero problem with homosexuality, and as previously stated, *love* Brockmann's original gay character, Jules Cassidy, for the little ray of sunshine that he is. Reading any scenes with Jules is always vastly entertaining, and I was rooting, very strongly, for him when it came to getting his own HEA. However, with the couple in this book, I not only found Sheldon bland and Aaron to be sullen, surly and basically a snot, I also felt like I was being *lectured* every time they came onto the page, as opposed to being entertained. These weren't great characters who just happened to be gay; they were gay characters written with an underlying agenda.
So, while I love Ms. Brockmann's work and appreciate her desire to use her writing as a means of opening eyes with regards to an issue she holds dear, I do hope that future books in this series go a little easier on the not-so-subtle preaching.
I love Suzanne Brockmann. Her books are action-packed, humorous and have some of the most endearing characters in any novels I've read (those of you who are familiar with Jules Cassidy will know what I mean.) However, while this book certainly contained plenty of action, and while I liked the main two characters well enough, the secondary characters (with the exception of Martel Griffin)were, well, rather unlikable. The female characters, as opposed to being simply strong women, seemed to have feminist chips on their shoulders the size of small planets.
That brings us to the gay couple, Aaron and Shel. I have zero problem with homosexuality, and as previously stated, *love* Brockmann's original gay character, Jules Cassidy, for the little ray of sunshine that he is. Reading any scenes with Jules is always vastly entertaining, and I was rooting, very strongly, for him when it came to getting his own HEA. However, with the couple in this book, I not only found Sheldon bland and Aaron to be sullen, surly and basically a snot, I also felt like I was being *lectured* every time they came onto the page, as opposed to being entertained. These weren't great characters who just happened to be gay; they were gay characters written with an underlying agenda.
So, while I love Ms. Brockmann's work and appreciate her desire to use her writing as a means of opening eyes with regards to an issue she holds dear, I do hope that future books in this series go a little easier on the not-so-subtle preaching.
November 19, 2013
I have always liked Suzanne Brockmann. She currently sits at my #3 for most read authors in my reading list. Her books always suck me in.
She writes HOT ALPHA Navy Seals - mixed with military action, suspense, and sexiness.
Ian and Phoebe brought tension, comedy, and realness to the book. The marina scene - wow. hot. I loved Ian's family. I loved a bit of mm in the book too.
I was wrapped up in the book until the end.
She writes HOT ALPHA Navy Seals - mixed with military action, suspense, and sexiness.
Ian and Phoebe brought tension, comedy, and realness to the book. The marina scene - wow. hot. I loved Ian's family. I loved a bit of mm in the book too.
I was wrapped up in the book until the end.
December 13, 2016
I really liked this book. I would have loved it if not for 2 reasons. The length and Phoebe. I thought it was a tad bit too long. And Phoebe annoyed the shit out of me. She had so many TSTL moments I just couldn't deal. She even ruined the first sex scene for me. She never knew when to STFU. It wasn't cute. It wasn't quirky. It wasn't endearing. It was annoying af. BUT every other character in this story I loved. I can't wait to read more in this series.
October 31, 2013
5 stars... Official review will be posted closer to the Feb 2014 release date...
If you're a fan of romantic suspense or Susan Brockmann's amazing writing style then you will not be disappointed. Like a fine wine, Brockmann's writing gets better with age :)
If you're a fan of romantic suspense or Susan Brockmann's amazing writing style then you will not be disappointed. Like a fine wine, Brockmann's writing gets better with age :)
January 3, 2014
"I can't let you do this because... I love you! Phoebe, Jesus, I really do." - Ian Dunn
What's the best thing that can happen to you other than discover an author you want to build a temple for? Why, find out the very same author has also written tons of books that are rumored to be as good as the one you just read, AND that you have a series of theirs in your TR list, of course! I dare say 2014 for me started brilliantly merely by reaching the end of Ian and Phoebe's story - or, well, what some of us like to see as the beginning of their new journey together.
Phoebe Kruger, a young - somewhat naive to the dirtiest ways of the world - lawyer, is supposed to help get Ian Dunn, former Navy SEAL rumored to be a jewel thief, out of prison. A nuclear scientist's children have been kidnapped, and Ian is the only one capable enough to pull the rescue scenario off. But Ian is not exactly ecstatic to be free, as this goes against his own personal agenda. He needs to do time so that his little brother can be safe from a vile mobster. The last thing he wants is for his long con to be compromised - especially by a woman who drives his hormones and protective instincts crazy.
If you start reading this book and you manage to NOT fall in love with its characters, then something is obviously very wrong with you. I'm not trying to be offensive or anything, I'm just stating facts. For starters, the main couple was every bit the interesting, hilarious, kickass individuals that simply explode into pure epicness when combined together - it's been so long since I've seen a couple like that, and even so, the maximum number is two times at the very best. So you can excuse me for being such a fan girl about both Ian and Phoebe.
Ian is sarcastic, childish when the situation turns stressful, and so deliciously Alpha-disguised-as-scum, it's a miracle I didn't hump my screen every time he interacted with Phoebe and put on the charm - oh, wait, that was about once every couple of pages. Whoops!
Any wonder why yours truly fell in love with him - or that Phoebe did the same, for that matter?
Which brings us to... Phoebe! Oh, this woman made me melt inside! One, she wore glasses. I repeat: GLASSES! In an action-filled story, full of car chases, and gunfire, and mobsters, and... you get the gist. And they were of the nerdy kind. What's not to love about a woman who LOOKS like a nerd and packs a mean variety of sarcastic and witty comebacks? Not to mention the fact her humor was right up my alley, she was no pushover, couldn't keep her mouth shut - takes "talk during sex" to a whole new level - and wasn't a walking, delicate stick! Quick on her feet, and quite accepting - though her adjustability level was too high at times to be believable. A woman that was truly born to be by Ian's side, I kid you not!
The rest of the "cast" was no less impressive. Each one of them with their own story and background, with their ups and downs, their strong points and flaws. All of them funny and quirky, and not at all boring. The story was not always focused on the main couple, which sometimes ends up in disaster, especially when you have so many characters to work with. But Mrs. Brockmann pulled it off like a pro - a result of her careful work in her "fictional crew". See, when you have a team, a group, full of people that have depth and are very much real, and you make a point of treating them as such, you're bound to be successful with many little plotlines in your main story.
Speaking of story, and different plotlines, anybody who reads Do or Die should at least agree to this: this book packs some serious action and breathtaking flashbacks. There's not a single thread that is left alone. Not a stone left unturned. Not a speck of ANY character's behavior and/or attitude that is not explained via their past, or connected with other past events from the lives of other characters. At first, they're all spread there in front of your eyes. It's a good thing Ian and Phoebe had all that sexual tension between them going on, so that it would take our mind off the question marks and prevent confusion. Slowly, gradually, they started drifting closer to each other, until we get a pretty clear image of almost everything that lead Francine to act like a bitch, Ian to keep secrets from everyone, hell, even Berto and his act of atonement made sense!
Before I finish this review, I have one more thing to say. I want to read Mrs. Brockmann's other books even more now! If they are anything like this one, then I'm in for quite a ride. And I'm definitely hoping Francine, Martell and even Yashi and Deb get their own love stories!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
What's the best thing that can happen to you other than discover an author you want to build a temple for? Why, find out the very same author has also written tons of books that are rumored to be as good as the one you just read, AND that you have a series of theirs in your TR list, of course! I dare say 2014 for me started brilliantly merely by reaching the end of Ian and Phoebe's story - or, well, what some of us like to see as the beginning of their new journey together.
Phoebe Kruger, a young - somewhat naive to the dirtiest ways of the world - lawyer, is supposed to help get Ian Dunn, former Navy SEAL rumored to be a jewel thief, out of prison. A nuclear scientist's children have been kidnapped, and Ian is the only one capable enough to pull the rescue scenario off. But Ian is not exactly ecstatic to be free, as this goes against his own personal agenda. He needs to do time so that his little brother can be safe from a vile mobster. The last thing he wants is for his long con to be compromised - especially by a woman who drives his hormones and protective instincts crazy.
If you start reading this book and you manage to NOT fall in love with its characters, then something is obviously very wrong with you. I'm not trying to be offensive or anything, I'm just stating facts. For starters, the main couple was every bit the interesting, hilarious, kickass individuals that simply explode into pure epicness when combined together - it's been so long since I've seen a couple like that, and even so, the maximum number is two times at the very best. So you can excuse me for being such a fan girl about both Ian and Phoebe.
Ian is sarcastic, childish when the situation turns stressful, and so deliciously Alpha-disguised-as-scum, it's a miracle I didn't hump my screen every time he interacted with Phoebe and put on the charm - oh, wait, that was about once every couple of pages. Whoops!
Any wonder why yours truly fell in love with him - or that Phoebe did the same, for that matter?
Which brings us to... Phoebe! Oh, this woman made me melt inside! One, she wore glasses. I repeat: GLASSES! In an action-filled story, full of car chases, and gunfire, and mobsters, and... you get the gist. And they were of the nerdy kind. What's not to love about a woman who LOOKS like a nerd and packs a mean variety of sarcastic and witty comebacks? Not to mention the fact her humor was right up my alley, she was no pushover, couldn't keep her mouth shut - takes "talk during sex" to a whole new level - and wasn't a walking, delicate stick! Quick on her feet, and quite accepting - though her adjustability level was too high at times to be believable. A woman that was truly born to be by Ian's side, I kid you not!
The rest of the "cast" was no less impressive. Each one of them with their own story and background, with their ups and downs, their strong points and flaws. All of them funny and quirky, and not at all boring. The story was not always focused on the main couple, which sometimes ends up in disaster, especially when you have so many characters to work with. But Mrs. Brockmann pulled it off like a pro - a result of her careful work in her "fictional crew". See, when you have a team, a group, full of people that have depth and are very much real, and you make a point of treating them as such, you're bound to be successful with many little plotlines in your main story.
Speaking of story, and different plotlines, anybody who reads Do or Die should at least agree to this: this book packs some serious action and breathtaking flashbacks. There's not a single thread that is left alone. Not a stone left unturned. Not a speck of ANY character's behavior and/or attitude that is not explained via their past, or connected with other past events from the lives of other characters. At first, they're all spread there in front of your eyes. It's a good thing Ian and Phoebe had all that sexual tension between them going on, so that it would take our mind off the question marks and prevent confusion. Slowly, gradually, they started drifting closer to each other, until we get a pretty clear image of almost everything that lead Francine to act like a bitch, Ian to keep secrets from everyone, hell, even Berto and his act of atonement made sense!
Before I finish this review, I have one more thing to say. I want to read Mrs. Brockmann's other books even more now! If they are anything like this one, then I'm in for quite a ride. And I'm definitely hoping Francine, Martell and even Yashi and Deb get their own love stories!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
October 18, 2013
I'm not sure if I'm biased, but I tend to really like Suzanne Brockmann's stories. Strong male leads, strong females, and bad guys that are such horrible people that they make you sick your stomach. It wasn't as intense as the airplane scene in troubleshooters, but the book still had quite a bit of tension. "Cuba" was great.
I liked the plot, but at times it felt almost like I were reading two different books. I got lost in the whole marina scene and forgot about the team of people waiting to come into play. There were a lot of minor plots that kept things interesting, Sometimes they gelled, but sometimes they felt like the two plots were too far apart. Also, who were the men in black? I get that they needed to come out of nowhere, but I felt like I needed to know who they were before the book ended. The troubleshooters? Or, someone that will appear in future books?
I had fun reading this one and it makes me want to go back and finish her previous series. I've been saving the books since I'm fairly confident they're all good to great. I save Brockmann for when I'm in a reading slump because I can depend on her for motivation.
I liked the plot, but at times it felt almost like I were reading two different books. I got lost in the whole marina scene and forgot about the team of people waiting to come into play. There were a lot of minor plots that kept things interesting, Sometimes they gelled, but sometimes they felt like the two plots were too far apart. Also, who were the men in black? I get that they needed to come out of nowhere, but I felt like I needed to know who they were before the book ended. The troubleshooters? Or, someone that will appear in future books?
I had fun reading this one and it makes me want to go back and finish her previous series. I've been saving the books since I'm fairly confident they're all good to great. I save Brockmann for when I'm in a reading slump because I can depend on her for motivation.
December 2, 2013
I didn't care much for this story.
What I liked was the connection to Ric and Annie who were featured in the Force of Nature Troubleshooters series. Yashi also played a prominent role in this story. I liked Ian Dunn, the hero. He was quite the typical Alpha who would do everything and anything to protect his loved ones.
What I did not like was the plot itself. I found it too convoluted. There was just too much going on with too many new characters; I had a hard time remembering who’s who as the situation unfolded.
Finally, Phoebe was one of the most annoying heroine’s I’ve ever read. For a lawyer and a seemingly smart woman, she made too many stupid decisions. Yes, I have to say she was TSTL. I couldn’t understand what Ian saw in her.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What I liked was the connection to Ric and Annie who were featured in the Force of Nature Troubleshooters series. Yashi also played a prominent role in this story. I liked Ian Dunn, the hero. He was quite the typical Alpha who would do everything and anything to protect his loved ones.
What I did not like was the plot itself. I found it too convoluted. There was just too much going on with too many new characters; I had a hard time remembering who’s who as the situation unfolded.
Finally, Phoebe was one of the most annoying heroine’s I’ve ever read. For a lawyer and a seemingly smart woman, she made too many stupid decisions. Yes, I have to say she was TSTL. I couldn’t understand what Ian saw in her.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2020
3.5 stars. As always the romance was great, and it was a fast-moving, action-packed story. The plot in this one was a little too complex for me though. Too many things happening, too many characters to try to keep straight. I enjoyed it, but it wasn't quite as good as some of the Troubleshooters series.
January 15, 2020
Audiobook
There were parts of the book that really held my interest, but there was also a lot of 'dead space.'
Another issue was the amount of characters with POVs. Phoebe and Ian are supposed to be the MCs, but there are so many side stories going on it's hard to invest or connect with any of them.
Overall, it was a fun read. The beginning starts off with action. Ian and his team are in the middle of an operation. I was hooked! You know I love me some action. Throughout the book Suzanne feeds me these delicious pockets of action with a bit of suspense.
Producing a 600 page novel is hard, but it is important to be watchful of too many boring moments.
There were parts of the book that really held my interest, but there was also a lot of 'dead space.'
Another issue was the amount of characters with POVs. Phoebe and Ian are supposed to be the MCs, but there are so many side stories going on it's hard to invest or connect with any of them.
Overall, it was a fun read. The beginning starts off with action. Ian and his team are in the middle of an operation. I was hooked! You know I love me some action. Throughout the book Suzanne feeds me these delicious pockets of action with a bit of suspense.
Producing a 600 page novel is hard, but it is important to be watchful of too many boring moments.
August 15, 2014
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
First off, I'm going to announce right off the bat that there is no possible way I can summarize or discuss everything that is included in this book. Every character, situation, or relationship I mention, know there are 5+ characters, 10+ situations, and 20+ relationships behind everything I am mentioning. Ok, I'm going to give it the ol' college try since that is cleared up.
This is a longer book and is essentially broken up into two parts. The first half involves our reluctant hero Ian being reluctantly released from jail. Reluctant? Remember those + things? Strap in girls and boys, there are about to be some controlled chaos story arcs. Ian doesn't want to be broken out of jail because he made a deal with the head of the Dellarosa mob family. Ian is serving prison time in exchange for the continued safety of his brother and his brother's family. Ian's brother is gay whose soulmate just happens to be a son in the Dellarosa mob family, which doesn't sit well with a couple members, so while they live as inconspicuously as possible, Ian's deal, along with a very tainted guardian angel, is keeping them alive. So when two lawyers come offering a deal, he is not interested. Martell offers Ian a get out of jail free card if the former SEAL and currently suspected jewel thief helps rescue two children from a Kazakhstan embassy. The other lawyer Phoebe is there to represent Ian's interest and is present due to pure happenstance. She is new to her firm but because of a car accident involving the partner's and their family, she was the only one in the office and thrust into the situation. The rest of the first half involves Ian working to gather his friends and family together to ensure everyone's safety as the Dellarosa's gun for them thinking Ian has reneged on their deal, ironing out a contract with Martell and the FBI, and discovering some sexual chemistry with Phoebe.
Now that all the players have been gathered together, the second half is enacting the mission to save the two children. This is where past situations and relationships really come to the forefront. There are multiple POVs and flashbacks to explain why all these characters are the way they are. The reader gets to see how Ian's brother and his husband Sheldon meet, the fallout of them getting caught on a sextape, Sheldon's sister Francine sacrificing herself and consequently a relationship with a boy she thought was the one, and "The One" emerging as the very tainted guardian angel I mentioned earlier. All this is interwoven with current conflicts, current relationship issues, and the mission setup. The ending is exciting and climatic as everything simultaneously goes wrong and goes according to plans, whether it be A,B,C, or Z.
If you're still with me and wondering why I haven't really discussed our main couple Ian and Phoebe, it's because they definitely get lost in the mix. Ian is mostly front and center as the characters and story circle around him but his relationship with Phoebe is not. There is good friction and sexual tension between them but when they ultimately get together and declare their love it feels rushed; the reader hasn't spent enough time with them to buy in to it. Phoebe has some great lines but her character isn't strong enough to hold up to the overall story, honestly Francine steals the show from her a little bit. The suspense arc is exciting, their romance, not as much.
The pace is quick moving, with only one or two lulls as this succumbs to first book in a series syndrome. The characters are given enough meaning and background to intrigue you and keep watch for their future books. If you're going in looking for strictly straight romance, you'll probably be disappointed as I would categorize this as Suspense first and then romance. If you are a fan of movies or tv shows like "24" then this is a must read for you, Brockmann's writing is incredibly strong.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
First off, I'm going to announce right off the bat that there is no possible way I can summarize or discuss everything that is included in this book. Every character, situation, or relationship I mention, know there are 5+ characters, 10+ situations, and 20+ relationships behind everything I am mentioning. Ok, I'm going to give it the ol' college try since that is cleared up.
This is a longer book and is essentially broken up into two parts. The first half involves our reluctant hero Ian being reluctantly released from jail. Reluctant? Remember those + things? Strap in girls and boys, there are about to be some controlled chaos story arcs. Ian doesn't want to be broken out of jail because he made a deal with the head of the Dellarosa mob family. Ian is serving prison time in exchange for the continued safety of his brother and his brother's family. Ian's brother is gay whose soulmate just happens to be a son in the Dellarosa mob family, which doesn't sit well with a couple members, so while they live as inconspicuously as possible, Ian's deal, along with a very tainted guardian angel, is keeping them alive. So when two lawyers come offering a deal, he is not interested. Martell offers Ian a get out of jail free card if the former SEAL and currently suspected jewel thief helps rescue two children from a Kazakhstan embassy. The other lawyer Phoebe is there to represent Ian's interest and is present due to pure happenstance. She is new to her firm but because of a car accident involving the partner's and their family, she was the only one in the office and thrust into the situation. The rest of the first half involves Ian working to gather his friends and family together to ensure everyone's safety as the Dellarosa's gun for them thinking Ian has reneged on their deal, ironing out a contract with Martell and the FBI, and discovering some sexual chemistry with Phoebe.
Now that all the players have been gathered together, the second half is enacting the mission to save the two children. This is where past situations and relationships really come to the forefront. There are multiple POVs and flashbacks to explain why all these characters are the way they are. The reader gets to see how Ian's brother and his husband Sheldon meet, the fallout of them getting caught on a sextape, Sheldon's sister Francine sacrificing herself and consequently a relationship with a boy she thought was the one, and "The One" emerging as the very tainted guardian angel I mentioned earlier. All this is interwoven with current conflicts, current relationship issues, and the mission setup. The ending is exciting and climatic as everything simultaneously goes wrong and goes according to plans, whether it be A,B,C, or Z.
If you're still with me and wondering why I haven't really discussed our main couple Ian and Phoebe, it's because they definitely get lost in the mix. Ian is mostly front and center as the characters and story circle around him but his relationship with Phoebe is not. There is good friction and sexual tension between them but when they ultimately get together and declare their love it feels rushed; the reader hasn't spent enough time with them to buy in to it. Phoebe has some great lines but her character isn't strong enough to hold up to the overall story, honestly Francine steals the show from her a little bit. The suspense arc is exciting, their romance, not as much.
The pace is quick moving, with only one or two lulls as this succumbs to first book in a series syndrome. The characters are given enough meaning and background to intrigue you and keep watch for their future books. If you're going in looking for strictly straight romance, you'll probably be disappointed as I would categorize this as Suspense first and then romance. If you are a fan of movies or tv shows like "24" then this is a must read for you, Brockmann's writing is incredibly strong.
September 9, 2016
I think I would have gave this book a 5-star if I had listened to the audiobook...and if I had already read the Troubleshooter series before hand.
Ian Dunn, a former Navy Seal, is serving an 18-month sentence on a murder charge when he gets a deal--Help the government rescue the kidnapped kids of a nuclear physicist and he can get the rest of his sentence commuted, provided he can deliver the kids unharmed.
The deal is delivered via a fed attorney and Ian's new attorney Phoebe Kruger, even though Ian never hired her.
Ian doesn't trust the deal so he turns them down, but someone how his released is arranged and Ian is sprung from the slammer, endangering Ian's family.
See Ian purposefully went to prison, to hide and to protect his younger brother Aaron. Now that he has been relesed, the people he was hiding from can come after them. Ian has to rely on his military training to get his family to safety, and figure out the leak in the Feds, and rescue the kidnapped kids. A big picture with a lot of subplots made for an action packed book.
This is my first Suzanne Brockmann book and I enjoyed it. The hero Ian was definitely an alpha male, but he was sexy and confident. He was also witty and very protective. I also like Phoebe as she wasn't a wilting flower. She held her own and was a good heroine. She gave as good as she got when she was bantering with Ian.
If you like stories featuring the mob, government and espionage, this is it a good book for that all that
*Thank you to Random House via Netgalley for the e-book copy**
Ian Dunn, a former Navy Seal, is serving an 18-month sentence on a murder charge when he gets a deal--Help the government rescue the kidnapped kids of a nuclear physicist and he can get the rest of his sentence commuted, provided he can deliver the kids unharmed.
The deal is delivered via a fed attorney and Ian's new attorney Phoebe Kruger, even though Ian never hired her.
Ian doesn't trust the deal so he turns them down, but someone how his released is arranged and Ian is sprung from the slammer, endangering Ian's family.
See Ian purposefully went to prison, to hide and to protect his younger brother Aaron. Now that he has been relesed, the people he was hiding from can come after them. Ian has to rely on his military training to get his family to safety, and figure out the leak in the Feds, and rescue the kidnapped kids. A big picture with a lot of subplots made for an action packed book.
This is my first Suzanne Brockmann book and I enjoyed it. The hero Ian was definitely an alpha male, but he was sexy and confident. He was also witty and very protective. I also like Phoebe as she wasn't a wilting flower. She held her own and was a good heroine. She gave as good as she got when she was bantering with Ian.
If you like stories featuring the mob, government and espionage, this is it a good book for that all that
*Thank you to Random House via Netgalley for the e-book copy**
November 15, 2015
Narration 4, Story 4.25.
It started out a bit slow after a fast start, but once the story got going it really had my attention.
Ian a former Navy Seal, is "blackmailed" into working with the FBI to save some kidnapped kids. The whole while, he's trying to protect his brother who has been marked for death by the Mob. So not one problem, but two.
Very complex, maybe a few side trips that were maybe a bit unnecessary but still enjoyable.
Recommend it if you like a good R/S title with lots of actions
It started out a bit slow after a fast start, but once the story got going it really had my attention.
Ian a former Navy Seal, is "blackmailed" into working with the FBI to save some kidnapped kids. The whole while, he's trying to protect his brother who has been marked for death by the Mob. So not one problem, but two.
Very complex, maybe a few side trips that were maybe a bit unnecessary but still enjoyable.
Recommend it if you like a good R/S title with lots of actions
October 21, 2013
Oh boy. One bad guy, then a second, then back to the first, and then the second and then the first...you get the idea. And there was not one, but two, no three, no four, no five love stories. No actually only two. It was good but boy was it confusing for a while there.
July 21, 2014
Once upon a time, a lady named Suzanne Brockmann wrote a book series called 'TroubleShooters'. They featured a historical story that wove its way beautifully around a more modern story, with intense plot action, playful banter, and some amazing SEAL characters. Her efforts took her to the top of the book charts.
Then she got sick of having to work so hard, so she stopped the whole historical angle... but we were okay with that, because the action, banter, and OH so sexy SEALS held us. But then her son officially came out of the closet, and she started using the books as a soapbox for homosexuality, and the banter wasn't as catchy, the SEAL characters (now in the private sector) not as amazing, and while there was plot action, the decline showed that the readers didn't like it.
So she upped the ante. People were over the moon about superheroes - Captain America, Iron Man, the Avengers... right? So she tried to jump start her sputtering literary vehicle with not just sexy SEAL heroes, but sexy *superhero* SEAL characters. Who were also gay, and exact replicas of the Troubleshooters. It didn't fly as well as she hoped. The series made it one book deep.
Now, apparently in an effort to reclaim that place where she'd had the hearts of the American reader, Brockmann has started ANOTHER series. Which has Jules Cassidy, Ric Alvarez and Yoshi and a bunch of our friends from the Troubleshooters in it, so... is it a spin-off on Troubleshooters? Was she going to bring the boat around and double back into the things that made her readership happy?
Noooo. I had hoped she was, but no. In fact, she kept the homosexuality a secret for the first hundred or so pages, to try to hook the reader (calling Sheldon 'Shelly' - as in, Aaron and Shelly - clever, eh?) so that we might get lured into the read and stay with her. But this book's flashbacks aren't historical or moving, they're romantic scenes from the gay forbidden relationship that just go on and ON...
As for the rest of the book, we have a 'SEAL gone rogue' - he's pretty much Robin Hood does SEAL, with one heckuva dysfunctional family dragging behind him (drug addicted baby, homosexual brother/partner, raped half sister, alcoholic possibly bad-guy half brother, evil overlord stepdaddy, dead other half-sister, etc)... and throw in two superfluous lawyers to add a little more for him to bench-press.
The romance just isn't there - Ian and Phoebe kiss intermittently, but there's no rhyme or reason, no sizzle between them. She comes off as ridiculously naive and pathetic, and he has to justify keeping her in the game half the book. The 'sizzle' consists of them constantly getting wet and having to strip shiney in the moonlight. While arguing. So not kewl.
The language has also digressed thru the years, so that it's a constant barrage of F's (yes, we know SEALS swear more than anything else, but compare Ian to, oh, say Johnny Nils, and you'll see a severe contrast from where Brockmann started).
Another thing that irritated was the nickname stuff. Aaron is 'Aarie', 'Air', 'Aare' 'D.A'... and you're supposed to follow this shit. Whatevs, Suz.
I'm sorry, but this is just more of the same crap, just packaged into a spin-off series. You want it back? You have to do better than this. Because it just doesn't cut it. Badly done.
Then she got sick of having to work so hard, so she stopped the whole historical angle... but we were okay with that, because the action, banter, and OH so sexy SEALS held us. But then her son officially came out of the closet, and she started using the books as a soapbox for homosexuality, and the banter wasn't as catchy, the SEAL characters (now in the private sector) not as amazing, and while there was plot action, the decline showed that the readers didn't like it.
So she upped the ante. People were over the moon about superheroes - Captain America, Iron Man, the Avengers... right? So she tried to jump start her sputtering literary vehicle with not just sexy SEAL heroes, but sexy *superhero* SEAL characters. Who were also gay, and exact replicas of the Troubleshooters. It didn't fly as well as she hoped. The series made it one book deep.
Now, apparently in an effort to reclaim that place where she'd had the hearts of the American reader, Brockmann has started ANOTHER series. Which has Jules Cassidy, Ric Alvarez and Yoshi and a bunch of our friends from the Troubleshooters in it, so... is it a spin-off on Troubleshooters? Was she going to bring the boat around and double back into the things that made her readership happy?
Noooo. I had hoped she was, but no. In fact, she kept the homosexuality a secret for the first hundred or so pages, to try to hook the reader (calling Sheldon 'Shelly' - as in, Aaron and Shelly - clever, eh?) so that we might get lured into the read and stay with her. But this book's flashbacks aren't historical or moving, they're romantic scenes from the gay forbidden relationship that just go on and ON...
As for the rest of the book, we have a 'SEAL gone rogue' - he's pretty much Robin Hood does SEAL, with one heckuva dysfunctional family dragging behind him (drug addicted baby, homosexual brother/partner, raped half sister, alcoholic possibly bad-guy half brother, evil overlord stepdaddy, dead other half-sister, etc)... and throw in two superfluous lawyers to add a little more for him to bench-press.
The romance just isn't there - Ian and Phoebe kiss intermittently, but there's no rhyme or reason, no sizzle between them. She comes off as ridiculously naive and pathetic, and he has to justify keeping her in the game half the book. The 'sizzle' consists of them constantly getting wet and having to strip shiney in the moonlight. While arguing. So not kewl.
The language has also digressed thru the years, so that it's a constant barrage of F's (yes, we know SEALS swear more than anything else, but compare Ian to, oh, say Johnny Nils, and you'll see a severe contrast from where Brockmann started).
Another thing that irritated was the nickname stuff. Aaron is 'Aarie', 'Air', 'Aare' 'D.A'... and you're supposed to follow this shit. Whatevs, Suz.
I'm sorry, but this is just more of the same crap, just packaged into a spin-off series. You want it back? You have to do better than this. Because it just doesn't cut it. Badly done.
March 13, 2014
I really enjoyed this new one by Suzanne Brockmann. Especially considering I didn't really like her last one all that much. This one is straight romantic suspense. And really much heavier on the suspense than the romance. It was fun to watch the convoluted plotting take place, fun watching Ian move all his pieces around. He was a good con man hero while still being a good guy. The characterization was not all that deep but you did get a sense of who everyone was and I could see that all the secondary characters could each have a book farther down the line. It's sort of setting up to be like the Troubleshooters series where many characters get POV time in each book and hopefully there will be a romance in each one with another couple. The heroine was nice. I liked her. She had a few TSTL moments but she learned and she was brave both physically and mentally.
This being SB there was a gay couple in the book. I liked this storyline because they were there and were an interesting couple who had their own problems. But thank goodness I didn't feel hit over the head with bunches of lecturing about gayness. They were just there, a regular couple, which is how I think gay couples should be treated.
This took place in the Troubleshooters universe. Ric Alvarado was mentioned as was Jules. But neither was an actual character which was a bit of a bummer as I would really have loved to see Jules since he's one of my favorite characters from the other series. I think this series will be a bit farther from the upstanding guys from the Troubleshooters. It seems as if there might be more not quite so goody two shoes characters.
The reason that I'm not giving this one 5 stars is that lack of deeper characterization that I was talking about. Still it's the first book so that might get better as the series grows.
Looking forward to the next one.
This being SB there was a gay couple in the book. I liked this storyline because they were there and were an interesting couple who had their own problems. But thank goodness I didn't feel hit over the head with bunches of lecturing about gayness. They were just there, a regular couple, which is how I think gay couples should be treated.
This took place in the Troubleshooters universe. Ric Alvarado was mentioned as was Jules. But neither was an actual character which was a bit of a bummer as I would really have loved to see Jules since he's one of my favorite characters from the other series. I think this series will be a bit farther from the upstanding guys from the Troubleshooters. It seems as if there might be more not quite so goody two shoes characters.
The reason that I'm not giving this one 5 stars is that lack of deeper characterization that I was talking about. Still it's the first book so that might get better as the series grows.
Looking forward to the next one.
October 13, 2013
***ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley***
Reader's Note: This is just a 'quote', the full review will be posted closer to the release date.
The characters were realistic, well-delineated, 'multi-layered', and nicely fleshed-out.
The action was non-stop, full-throttle. And the writing, story-flow, and narration followed suit. There wasn't a slow, lagging or dull moment throughout the book.
And I loved the humor in it. It kept it from getting too serious, too dark at times. It provided lightness as perfect counterbalance.
This book was an wonderful blend of character-driven story, action, drama, well-placed angst, romance, and (sometimes snarky) humor. It was like watching a good action movie where you don't want to take your eyes off the screen in fear of missing something. And you want to keep watching and are a little bummed it ended. And that's what happened with this book. I wanted to keep on reading, because I loved every single 'minute' of it.
Reader's Note: This is just a 'quote', the full review will be posted closer to the release date.
The characters were realistic, well-delineated, 'multi-layered', and nicely fleshed-out.
The action was non-stop, full-throttle. And the writing, story-flow, and narration followed suit. There wasn't a slow, lagging or dull moment throughout the book.
And I loved the humor in it. It kept it from getting too serious, too dark at times. It provided lightness as perfect counterbalance.
This book was an wonderful blend of character-driven story, action, drama, well-placed angst, romance, and (sometimes snarky) humor. It was like watching a good action movie where you don't want to take your eyes off the screen in fear of missing something. And you want to keep watching and are a little bummed it ended. And that's what happened with this book. I wanted to keep on reading, because I loved every single 'minute' of it.
December 31, 2022
3.5 stars Good addition to the Troubleshooters series.
[Edited 12/30/22] 3 stars Funny how one's perceptions change in the course of a few years and encountering others who find this type of romance annoying. LOL
I find my own opinion has changed. While the book is still a good addition to the Troubleshooters series, I realized that my tolerance for the romance in this book has gone down - a lot. Ian and Phoebe 1] kiss way too much; 2] at the most inappropriate times; 3] in the most annoying way possible. I guess this type of romance is a no go for me anymore.
A - for LGBT rep.
C - for annoying romance that really doesn't work for me.
[Edited 12/30/22] 3 stars Funny how one's perceptions change in the course of a few years and encountering others who find this type of romance annoying. LOL
I find my own opinion has changed. While the book is still a good addition to the Troubleshooters series, I realized that my tolerance for the romance in this book has gone down - a lot. Ian and Phoebe 1] kiss way too much; 2] at the most inappropriate times; 3] in the most annoying way possible. I guess this type of romance is a no go for me anymore.
A - for LGBT rep.
C - for annoying romance that really doesn't work for me.
January 17, 2014
10-Suzanne Brockmann fangirling-stars!!!!!!
Review to come!!!
Arc provided for an honest review by author courtesy of NetGalley.
Review to come!!!
Arc provided for an honest review by author courtesy of NetGalley.
April 26, 2020
Former Navy Seal turned jewel thief Ian is halfway through a prison sentence when two lawyers visit him intending to work a deal with him that will spring him. Lead lawyer Martell is working with the FBI and needs Ian's special expertise to rescue the kidnapped kids of a nuclear physicist that are confirmed to be still in the US but held at the Miami embassy of an unstable (fictional) middle eastern country. Second chair Phoebe is Ian's attorney, or more correctly the new associate in the firm representing Ian who was handed a file and told to 'go meet the client' when an accident side-lined Ian's assigned attorney. One would think Ian would jump at the chance, but no, because the entire term in prison is both an effort to protect his family and a long con involving a crime lord and his family, the Delarossas, especially the psycho unstable Davio who has a murderous vendetta against Ian's brother and Ian. Just about every single other main character in the story is a member of the Delarossa family.
And so the adventures, or more accurately layers of cons and stings, begins. It is exciting, action packed and you don't always anticipate what's about to happen. I did find that I had to suspend disbelief a tad more frequently than I like - I mean mentally remind myself to do so and not to question the rational aspect of certain things, and that dropped my rating to 4,5 stars. The villains are truly horrible, but most of the terrible acts performed by the villains are in the past and thus only reported, leaving the book present that of an action thriller with car chases and everyone but the true villains surviving, even if a bit battered.
But there is more to Brockmann's work, always. The complexity of the relationships between Ian's family and the Delarossa family affect not only the cons and stings of the book, but also many of the emotional relationships and burdens of the characters. This adds depth and the good/bad character of Berto, one of Davio's sons and Sheldon's brother, is perhaps the most interesting in the story, providing a redemption plotline that adds significantly to the plot.
Add to that the romance, because there is always romance in Brockmann's books. Here we have 3 featured pretty prominently. The central romance is between Ian and Phoebe, and it sparkles, sizzles, and the repartee between them is witty and funny. Phoebe is smart and spunky as can be, much more than the initial impression Ian has of her. Phoebe is his equal in every way, confident fearless in the right way and on all levels. Love this couple and found myself grinning over their dialogue, and the sexual and emotional tension between them that they both deny even though it is obvious to all.
The secondary couple of Aaron and Sheldon -- long married with a son. Their romance which started at prep school is an important back story, and is revealed mostly in a series of short flashbacks. One of the things I really love about Brockmann is that she incorporates same sex relationships and marriages into her Special Ops thrillers. She's good at it except for one problem which dropped my rating to 4 stars: The dialogue between Sheldon and Aaron, whether when they were teens inlove or when they are fighting during the latter part of the plot, is way too butterflies, rainbows, and unicorns. I mean really? Can't they too have some witty exchanges, rather than these overly saccharine touchy feely ones?
The third couple -- or really triangle sort of -- revolves around Sheldon's adopted sister Francine and her traumatic history with Berto which raises its head during the con, and her tentative relationship with Martel. This latter is in some ways the least evolved but that's fine as you only needed Francine to be at a point of having a future with someone by the end of the book.
I ultimately give this 3.5 stars because I had to knock another half point off due to the extremely irritating shortened names used by the characters for each other. All characters have pretty short two syllable names. But almost all are shortened: Aaron to Air or Airie, Sheldon to Shel/Shelly, Ian to Eee (seriously???), Phoebe is Pheeb. I found it mostly irritating.
My gripes are really minor and I actually enjoyed this a lot. I just wish Brockmann would write another in the series (this seems to be the first of a new series).
And so the adventures, or more accurately layers of cons and stings, begins. It is exciting, action packed and you don't always anticipate what's about to happen. I did find that I had to suspend disbelief a tad more frequently than I like - I mean mentally remind myself to do so and not to question the rational aspect of certain things, and that dropped my rating to 4,5 stars. The villains are truly horrible, but most of the terrible acts performed by the villains are in the past and thus only reported, leaving the book present that of an action thriller with car chases and everyone but the true villains surviving, even if a bit battered.
But there is more to Brockmann's work, always. The complexity of the relationships between Ian's family and the Delarossa family affect not only the cons and stings of the book, but also many of the emotional relationships and burdens of the characters. This adds depth and the good/bad character of Berto, one of Davio's sons and Sheldon's brother, is perhaps the most interesting in the story, providing a redemption plotline that adds significantly to the plot.
Add to that the romance, because there is always romance in Brockmann's books. Here we have 3 featured pretty prominently. The central romance is between Ian and Phoebe, and it sparkles, sizzles, and the repartee between them is witty and funny. Phoebe is smart and spunky as can be, much more than the initial impression Ian has of her. Phoebe is his equal in every way, confident fearless in the right way and on all levels. Love this couple and found myself grinning over their dialogue, and the sexual and emotional tension between them that they both deny even though it is obvious to all.
The secondary couple of Aaron and Sheldon -- long married with a son. Their romance which started at prep school is an important back story, and is revealed mostly in a series of short flashbacks. One of the things I really love about Brockmann is that she incorporates same sex relationships and marriages into her Special Ops thrillers. She's good at it except for one problem which dropped my rating to 4 stars: The dialogue between Sheldon and Aaron, whether when they were teens inlove or when they are fighting during the latter part of the plot, is way too butterflies, rainbows, and unicorns. I mean really? Can't they too have some witty exchanges, rather than these overly saccharine touchy feely ones?
The third couple -- or really triangle sort of -- revolves around Sheldon's adopted sister Francine and her traumatic history with Berto which raises its head during the con, and her tentative relationship with Martel. This latter is in some ways the least evolved but that's fine as you only needed Francine to be at a point of having a future with someone by the end of the book.
I ultimately give this 3.5 stars because I had to knock another half point off due to the extremely irritating shortened names used by the characters for each other. All characters have pretty short two syllable names. But almost all are shortened: Aaron to Air or Airie, Sheldon to Shel/Shelly, Ian to Eee (seriously???), Phoebe is Pheeb. I found it mostly irritating.
My gripes are really minor and I actually enjoyed this a lot. I just wish Brockmann would write another in the series (this seems to be the first of a new series).
July 10, 2018
I'm a massive Suzanne Brockmann fan, but this book was just alright. There wasn't really enough action or story to justify the length of this book; it could easily have been reduced by 200 pages and still told the story it needed to tell.
series-on-hold
October 5, 2017--Read up to 19% but think I'm going back-I feel like I started 3/4 of the way through a series or something so REWIND...figuring out a better order to read the series in.
October 3, 2014
Check out my other listens at Eargasms Audiobook Reviews
Really great story, well developed and engaging throughout. The only big downer is it is very long. I listened to the audiobook which is pretty much 20 hours. While the story and characters are interesting and entertaining, you really do feel the length. But I honestly can't say that I would have cut any of the parts.
There is a lot going on in this story from the get go. It has a non-linear feel as flashbacks are interspersed with the present day story. They are pieced out through the book to give snippets of back-story. This helps add drama and intrigue to the past events. It was a really well used device that helped move the story along and the flashbacks were perfectly placed.
I love the relationship between Phoebe and Ian, they are my favorite combo, geeky girl and bad boy!! Sigh, it is always delicious to read those pairings! It felt the relationship progressed quickly, but I am willing to forgive that because it was well developed. I felt the build of attraction and even buy into the way feelings are enhanced by extreme circumstances.
The steam is delicious!! Plenty of yummy detail but not as far as an erotic romance. They are a touch combustible and once they give in to the attraction, HOLY HANNAH!! These two really can burn up some sheets!!
It is a mixed narrative, mostly Phoebe and Ian's POVs but plenty of the supporting cast as well. Each character gives insight to the overall dynamic and allows the reader a unique side perspective. I loved seeing how they all fit together. Ian and Phoebe are not the only romantic connection, although they are the only ones who get intimate in the story.
The supporting cast is varied and all have great sub-plots. I will admit to crying more than once over Aaron and Shel, Francine and even Berto. Each character had trials to overcome, some turned out happier than others. It was amazing to see how one incident in their youth became a defining moment for all of them. It was rather heartbreaking. By the end I wanted redemption and healing for all of them.
I really liked the lawyer Martel and had hopes he would find romance with FBI gal Deb, maybe that can be the next book? They had a nice banter and there was definitely a connection there.
There are many things going on throughout the story both in the past and present. I thought Ms. Brockmann did a wonderful job of juggling them all and keeping the story moving at a steady pace. Plenty of climactic moments mixed throughout help add to the movement of the story and general feeling of suspense. It went a long way in lessening the long feel of the novel.
This audiobook was unique for me as it is a first that I have listened to with two narrators. It was a touch disconcerting at first. I will admit I did not fully pay attention before starting and was surprised by the first sudden change in voice. I eventually grew accustomed to it and by the end really liked the difference. Patrick Lawlor voiced all the male POVs, each voice was distinct and easily identified. I really liked the deep timber to his voice. He put some serious energy into the smexy scene, definitely warms a gal up!! Melanie Ewbank did all the women's POVs, she also did a great job of making each lady sound unique and stayed consistent. She had nice energy throughout the read. They each had a great reading pace that lent itself to the flow of the book. Perhaps a touch more energy in the action sequences, but overall very nice reads.
This is my first book by Ms Brockmann, but certainly not my last. I may have to check out her Troubleshooters series as it was referenced a bit in this book. Perhaps that is where I will see Martel get his HEA. I am also eager to see what is next in this series!
Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for am honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
Really great story, well developed and engaging throughout. The only big downer is it is very long. I listened to the audiobook which is pretty much 20 hours. While the story and characters are interesting and entertaining, you really do feel the length. But I honestly can't say that I would have cut any of the parts.
There is a lot going on in this story from the get go. It has a non-linear feel as flashbacks are interspersed with the present day story. They are pieced out through the book to give snippets of back-story. This helps add drama and intrigue to the past events. It was a really well used device that helped move the story along and the flashbacks were perfectly placed.
I love the relationship between Phoebe and Ian, they are my favorite combo, geeky girl and bad boy!! Sigh, it is always delicious to read those pairings! It felt the relationship progressed quickly, but I am willing to forgive that because it was well developed. I felt the build of attraction and even buy into the way feelings are enhanced by extreme circumstances.
The steam is delicious!! Plenty of yummy detail but not as far as an erotic romance. They are a touch combustible and once they give in to the attraction, HOLY HANNAH!! These two really can burn up some sheets!!
It is a mixed narrative, mostly Phoebe and Ian's POVs but plenty of the supporting cast as well. Each character gives insight to the overall dynamic and allows the reader a unique side perspective. I loved seeing how they all fit together. Ian and Phoebe are not the only romantic connection, although they are the only ones who get intimate in the story.
The supporting cast is varied and all have great sub-plots. I will admit to crying more than once over Aaron and Shel, Francine and even Berto. Each character had trials to overcome, some turned out happier than others. It was amazing to see how one incident in their youth became a defining moment for all of them. It was rather heartbreaking. By the end I wanted redemption and healing for all of them.
I really liked the lawyer Martel and had hopes he would find romance with FBI gal Deb, maybe that can be the next book? They had a nice banter and there was definitely a connection there.
There are many things going on throughout the story both in the past and present. I thought Ms. Brockmann did a wonderful job of juggling them all and keeping the story moving at a steady pace. Plenty of climactic moments mixed throughout help add to the movement of the story and general feeling of suspense. It went a long way in lessening the long feel of the novel.
This audiobook was unique for me as it is a first that I have listened to with two narrators. It was a touch disconcerting at first. I will admit I did not fully pay attention before starting and was surprised by the first sudden change in voice. I eventually grew accustomed to it and by the end really liked the difference. Patrick Lawlor voiced all the male POVs, each voice was distinct and easily identified. I really liked the deep timber to his voice. He put some serious energy into the smexy scene, definitely warms a gal up!! Melanie Ewbank did all the women's POVs, she also did a great job of making each lady sound unique and stayed consistent. She had nice energy throughout the read. They each had a great reading pace that lent itself to the flow of the book. Perhaps a touch more energy in the action sequences, but overall very nice reads.
This is my first book by Ms Brockmann, but certainly not my last. I may have to check out her Troubleshooters series as it was referenced a bit in this book. Perhaps that is where I will see Martel get his HEA. I am also eager to see what is next in this series!
Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for am honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
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