What do you think?
Rate this book
Alpha Heroes #12
Javier
The search for the Astor sisters is on.
Javier Guzman has been given a new mission and a second chance at life. After the tragic loss that led to his last mission’s failure, this Marine Raider has one last opportunity to climb out of the hellhole where he’s buried himself.
Redemption is the only cure for the agony that haunts him.
Missy Astor has fled from her former life and her toxic father. She’s hidden herself away in the most unlikely of places and dedicated her time to improve the lives of others, her way to claim her freedom and atone for her father’s sins.
But even as she learns she’s being hunted by her father’s murderer—a killer who has pledged to exterminate her family—she doesn’t want to be rescued, especially not by Javier.
She may yet prove to be his greatest downfall.
Javier Guzman has been given a new mission and a second chance at life. After the tragic loss that led to his last mission’s failure, this Marine Raider has one last opportunity to climb out of the hellhole where he’s buried himself.
Redemption is the only cure for the agony that haunts him.
Missy Astor has fled from her former life and her toxic father. She’s hidden herself away in the most unlikely of places and dedicated her time to improve the lives of others, her way to claim her freedom and atone for her father’s sins.
But even as she learns she’s being hunted by her father’s murderer—a killer who has pledged to exterminate her family—she doesn’t want to be rescued, especially not by Javier.
She may yet prove to be his greatest downfall.
- GenresRomantic Suspense
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
76 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Anna del Mar
64 books235 followersAnna del Mar writes hot, smart romances that soothe the soul, challenge the mind, and satisfy the heart. Her stories focus on strong heroines struggling to find their place in the world and the brave, sexy, kickass, military heroes who defy the limits of their broken bodies to protect the women they love. She is the author of The Asset (Carina Press), the first novel of her Wounded Warrior series and three other novels scheduled for release during 2016.
A Georgetown University graduate, Anna enjoys traveling, hiking, skiing, and the sea. Writing is her addiction, her drug of choice, and what she wants to do all the time. The extraordinary men and women she met during her years as a Navy wife inspire the fabulous heroes and heroines at the center of her stories. When she stays put—which doesn’t happen very often—she lives in Florida with her indulgent husband and two very opinionated cats.
A Georgetown University graduate, Anna enjoys traveling, hiking, skiing, and the sea. Writing is her addiction, her drug of choice, and what she wants to do all the time. The extraordinary men and women she met during her years as a Navy wife inspire the fabulous heroes and heroines at the center of her stories. When she stays put—which doesn’t happen very often—she lives in Florida with her indulgent husband and two very opinionated cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 15, 2025
Javier and Missy's story pulled me in from the start. Of the "new" Alpha Heroes, Trev is still my favourite, but Javier comes a close second.
The romance was there, and so was the suspense. Javier's development arc was a pleasure to behold; his transformation from this cynical, don't-care, irreverent lout, to someone who would do anything for the woman he adores was fantastic. His fight against hooking up with Missy was annoying though: it dragged on for so long that Missy was going to move on to greener pastures (and I didn't blame her). And he would have let her, too, if King did not talk sense into him. I would have preferred for him to fight for what he wanted. Yes, he wanted Missy, but at the same time he was allowing other women to plaster themselves to his side (although he didn't want them) - what was that about? It just made the character seem oblivious and inconsiderate of Missy's feelings. That type of posturing could have been left out of the story as it has the potential to turn a reader against a character.
Missy's character was likeable at the start, not so much in the middle, and better at the end. She started off as this feisty redhead with a backbone, just for the author to revert her character to type - you know, FMC's who come across as needy and desperate for the MMC's love and attention - which was disappointing to say the least.
Missy was constantly throwing herself at Javier and being rejected most of the time. It irks me when authors put the FMC in the "hunter" role; I don't find it appealing or liberated at all. It just comes across as FMC's demeaning themselves and lacking pride. Yes, this might be an outdated view - and believe me, I am a staunch feminist - but, for many reasons, I prefer the chasing to be done by the MMC.
Something else that bugs me in these types of books is when the FMC is painted as this paragon of virtue (Missy was almost-a-virgin while Javier was, you guessed it, a man-wh0re) and the most kind-hearted human being on the face of this earth. Missy was SO kind that she practically begged Javier not to kill the people who wanted to take her out (permanently). Unfortunately, authors go too far with this line and the FMC just ends up looking dumb.
The chemistry between Javier and Missy was red-hot, though - this author is extremely skilled at capturing this element of romance. The feelings and attraction between the two main characters did not feel forced; the reader could "feel" their connection developing from the start.
Overall, this was a good read, and I would recommend it to fans of the romantic suspense genre.
The romance was there, and so was the suspense. Javier's development arc was a pleasure to behold; his transformation from this cynical, don't-care, irreverent lout, to someone who would do anything for the woman he adores was fantastic. His fight against hooking up with Missy was annoying though: it dragged on for so long that Missy was going to move on to greener pastures (and I didn't blame her). And he would have let her, too, if King did not talk sense into him. I would have preferred for him to fight for what he wanted. Yes, he wanted Missy, but at the same time he was allowing other women to plaster themselves to his side (although he didn't want them) - what was that about? It just made the character seem oblivious and inconsiderate of Missy's feelings. That type of posturing could have been left out of the story as it has the potential to turn a reader against a character.
Missy's character was likeable at the start, not so much in the middle, and better at the end. She started off as this feisty redhead with a backbone, just for the author to revert her character to type - you know, FMC's who come across as needy and desperate for the MMC's love and attention - which was disappointing to say the least.
Missy was constantly throwing herself at Javier and being rejected most of the time. It irks me when authors put the FMC in the "hunter" role; I don't find it appealing or liberated at all. It just comes across as FMC's demeaning themselves and lacking pride. Yes, this might be an outdated view - and believe me, I am a staunch feminist - but, for many reasons, I prefer the chasing to be done by the MMC.
Something else that bugs me in these types of books is when the FMC is painted as this paragon of virtue (Missy was almost-a-virgin while Javier was, you guessed it, a man-wh0re) and the most kind-hearted human being on the face of this earth. Missy was SO kind that she practically begged Javier not to kill the people who wanted to take her out (permanently). Unfortunately, authors go too far with this line and the FMC just ends up looking dumb.
The chemistry between Javier and Missy was red-hot, though - this author is extremely skilled at capturing this element of romance. The feelings and attraction between the two main characters did not feel forced; the reader could "feel" their connection developing from the start.
Overall, this was a good read, and I would recommend it to fans of the romantic suspense genre.
October 9, 2024
I always eagerly await the next novel in Anna del Mar's Alpha Heroes series because they never disappoint, as was obvious in her 12th Alpha Heroes novel, Javier--another fabulous read from this talented author. 5 stars.
While it took me a little while to start to like Javier's character, the suspense, his gruff, often harsh demeanor, and his attraction to Missy Astor, won me over in short order. When they say opposites attract, it was never more true than in this novel. Missy has been in hiding, living with a couple of nuns in a small Nicaraguan church--hiding from her overbearing, harsh, demeaning, disapproving and uber-wealthy father for the past three years.
It's Javier who is tasked with finding her, protecting her, and getting her out of the country and to relative safety in nearby Costa Rica ASAP, and it's a mission fraught with danger, her possible kidnapping and/or murder, taut suspense, and fact that Missy dreamed of Javier weeks before he showed up, and the additional fact that he's instantly attracted to her, but doesn't believe in love or relationships beyond one-night stands, which complicates things even more. Missy's low self-esteem and history of fainting spells doesn't make her rescue any easier, especially when she insists on taking the two downright lovable nuns with her.
The fact that Missy is being pursued by multiple assassins, her slow-burn, growing relationship with and attraction to her rescuer, Javier, simply ratchets up the suspense in this page-turner of a novel. If you've not previously read any of Ms. del Mar's previous Alpha Heroes novels, I suggest that you start now, and I highly recommend starting from the beginning, which will give you a better understanding of who the recurring characters are when they appear in this novel--you won't be disappointed by a single one of these pulse-pounding, sexy novels.
And yes, there a trigger warning, among which are on-screen violence, kidnapping, deadly snakes, and on-screen sexy times, but none of the aforementioned dampened my enjoyment of this gritty, dangerous, and un-put-downable novel one iota. It was just that good of a read and I highly recommend it, and this entire series.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated herein are my own.
While it took me a little while to start to like Javier's character, the suspense, his gruff, often harsh demeanor, and his attraction to Missy Astor, won me over in short order. When they say opposites attract, it was never more true than in this novel. Missy has been in hiding, living with a couple of nuns in a small Nicaraguan church--hiding from her overbearing, harsh, demeaning, disapproving and uber-wealthy father for the past three years.
It's Javier who is tasked with finding her, protecting her, and getting her out of the country and to relative safety in nearby Costa Rica ASAP, and it's a mission fraught with danger, her possible kidnapping and/or murder, taut suspense, and fact that Missy dreamed of Javier weeks before he showed up, and the additional fact that he's instantly attracted to her, but doesn't believe in love or relationships beyond one-night stands, which complicates things even more. Missy's low self-esteem and history of fainting spells doesn't make her rescue any easier, especially when she insists on taking the two downright lovable nuns with her.
The fact that Missy is being pursued by multiple assassins, her slow-burn, growing relationship with and attraction to her rescuer, Javier, simply ratchets up the suspense in this page-turner of a novel. If you've not previously read any of Ms. del Mar's previous Alpha Heroes novels, I suggest that you start now, and I highly recommend starting from the beginning, which will give you a better understanding of who the recurring characters are when they appear in this novel--you won't be disappointed by a single one of these pulse-pounding, sexy novels.
And yes, there a trigger warning, among which are on-screen violence, kidnapping, deadly snakes, and on-screen sexy times, but none of the aforementioned dampened my enjoyment of this gritty, dangerous, and un-put-downable novel one iota. It was just that good of a read and I highly recommend it, and this entire series.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated herein are my own.
October 3, 2024
Another fantastic story
I am always anxious to get my hands on new releases from this talented author, and drop back into these character's world, and this one kept me on the edge of my seat the whole read! Sooo good...
Javier has been tasked to find and protect the youngest Astor sister, a mission that will test him physically, mentally, and emotionally. I absolutely loved the spiritual aspects running through the pages, and how Missy is a "dreamer".
She is also the most perfect woman for Javier. Missy has been laying low, trying to keep safe from the people who are trying their best to end her. I loved the steamy chemistry between these two, and Javier's attempt to ignore the attraction.
The pulse pounding, dangerous situations that these two escape from kept the pages furiously flipping, and I was a bit surprised when I got a little teary at some points in this one. All in all, this is a fantastic continuation of this storyline that has all the things we LOVE about this author's works...
Action (guns/escapes)
dangerous men
dangerous situations
unseen enemies
a tight, cohesive team, made up of incredible soldiers and friends
and really, even more.
I strongly recommend reading this series in the correct order for the best experience. If you are new to this author, correct this immediately. There are hours of enjoyment heading your way.
I absolutely loved this one, and highly recommend this series and this author.
I urge you to get this book/series, get comfortable and enjoy 😉
I am always anxious to get my hands on new releases from this talented author, and drop back into these character's world, and this one kept me on the edge of my seat the whole read! Sooo good...
Javier has been tasked to find and protect the youngest Astor sister, a mission that will test him physically, mentally, and emotionally. I absolutely loved the spiritual aspects running through the pages, and how Missy is a "dreamer".
She is also the most perfect woman for Javier. Missy has been laying low, trying to keep safe from the people who are trying their best to end her. I loved the steamy chemistry between these two, and Javier's attempt to ignore the attraction.
The pulse pounding, dangerous situations that these two escape from kept the pages furiously flipping, and I was a bit surprised when I got a little teary at some points in this one. All in all, this is a fantastic continuation of this storyline that has all the things we LOVE about this author's works...
Action (guns/escapes)
dangerous men
dangerous situations
unseen enemies
a tight, cohesive team, made up of incredible soldiers and friends
and really, even more.
I strongly recommend reading this series in the correct order for the best experience. If you are new to this author, correct this immediately. There are hours of enjoyment heading your way.
I absolutely loved this one, and highly recommend this series and this author.
I urge you to get this book/series, get comfortable and enjoy 😉
October 12, 2024
JUST AMAZING!
Another stellar book written by Anna del Mar. Her Alpha Heroes just keep getting better. If I could give this more stars I would. Javier and Missy, what a pair. Both with troubles and doubts but both so very strong and brave. A wonderful story that brings out the best in themselves and right to where they belong, together. Anna captures your attention from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very end. I continue to feel the emotions when reading her books. And as always I will be hanging out for Kai’s story. Keep on writing Anna.
Another stellar book written by Anna del Mar. Her Alpha Heroes just keep getting better. If I could give this more stars I would. Javier and Missy, what a pair. Both with troubles and doubts but both so very strong and brave. A wonderful story that brings out the best in themselves and right to where they belong, together. Anna captures your attention from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very end. I continue to feel the emotions when reading her books. And as always I will be hanging out for Kai’s story. Keep on writing Anna.
August 30, 2025
OMG! WOW!
What is there NOT to like. Oops, should have said love. I just finished book 12. I have more to read. At least, I hope I do. These books are wonderful. I read on my Fire tablet and I can't tell you how I have read, my fully charged tablet, dead. Battery used up. Had to stop reading because no battery. It really sucked.
Now let me tell you about me. I'm 73 years old and you ate one he'll of an author. Once I start reading a book I can't stop until my battery is gone. Keep up the good work and keep the books coming!
What is there NOT to like. Oops, should have said love. I just finished book 12. I have more to read. At least, I hope I do. These books are wonderful. I read on my Fire tablet and I can't tell you how I have read, my fully charged tablet, dead. Battery used up. Had to stop reading because no battery. It really sucked.
Now let me tell you about me. I'm 73 years old and you ate one he'll of an author. Once I start reading a book I can't stop until my battery is gone. Keep up the good work and keep the books coming!
August 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book but found myself skimming several parts because of the great detail. The romance and second chance was evident from the start and the suspense kept me reading until the end. Not sure if I’ll read any more books in the series, but I’d recommend reading this one!
September 23, 2025
Wow just wow
Hunky men, strong women, nun, bad guys and snakes, this story has it all. From Nicaraguan desert and Costa Rica jungles, to a mansion in the US the story brings it all to life with vivid descriptions. The people feel real and the good ones could be great friends.
Hunky men, strong women, nun, bad guys and snakes, this story has it all. From Nicaraguan desert and Costa Rica jungles, to a mansion in the US the story brings it all to life with vivid descriptions. The people feel real and the good ones could be great friends.
January 24, 2025
Such a cool series and this story fit right in! I just wish the books would come out more frequently. I REALLY want to know what happens!!!
August 3, 2025
I loved this book start to finish. The characters, the story, the action, suspense, drama and sizzle. I think the bad actor in this tale may be one of the creepiest I've ever run across. He gave me goosebumps. Of course the Tracker Team play supporting roles which is a plus and there are two very feisty nuns who'll make you laugh out loud. Javier Guzman and Missy Astor come from two different worlds yet they mesh like puzzle pieces. She's the mission, therefore off limits but she's determined to cross that line. A man can only take so much. Add in prescient dreams that keep becoming realities, some in the deadliest ways and you've got one heck of a love story to read.
September 20, 2025
As with the other books in this series, this is a must read. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. There is plenty of nail biting actions, along with some steamy scenes. An engaging and entertaining storyline.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews