The place she should have felt safest was a nightmare turned reality for Josie Day. Each day that passes gets worse and worse. And it’s been that way her entire life.
But she refuses to be a statistic, so she comes up with a plan to get out.
Huck Davidson immediately recognizes the signs when a chance encounter puts him face-to-face with Josie for the first time in years. He pleads with her to let him help, and she agrees.
Sadly, before she can escape, things take a horrific turn.
Fortunately, Huck answers Josie's call for help. He’s more than prepared to mend her wounds and give her the life and love she was always meant to have.
A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
My heart hurt a bit for Josie. And Huck, if I’m honest. They were friends with the chance for more, but life got in the way. And the dreams of youth heading into the world. But now? Well now Huck has seen Josie again and he knows, he just knows, that they’re meant to be. Even if the road to forever is a bit bumpy and a lot painful at times, these two make it work.
I love that communication is always key for this series. Things don’t get hidden or swept under the rug. The awkward, embarrassing things are talked about. The honesty is always first and foremost. And the fact that Huck has zero concerns about being the first to share his true feelings really strikes a chord. And maybe the fact that he’s all about making sure someone doesn’t get a second chance to cause pain and damage. One thing can be said about Huck. He doesn’t care one bit about sharing matters of the heart, which is exactly what Josie needs. Heck, I think any woman needs a man who so easily bares his heart and soul for the One!
𝐄𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 is the 16th book in the Harper Security Ops series by A.K. Evans, featuring an emotional, heart-breaking, and swoon-worthy second chance romantic suspense for Huck and Josie. Josie’s life in high school was a nightmare, until she met a light in the darkness in Huck who offered her food, safety, friendship, and hope. Their connection was so pure and obvious, but Huck knew he was enlisting in the military, so he never pursued anything more than friendship. When they come face-to-face years later in a diner, the feelings come roaring back, but Josie isn’t single, Huck suspects history is repeating itself and that Josie is once again in an unsafe situation. Josie is trying to leave a DV situation, but things take a dangerous turn before she makes her escape. This time Huck answers the call, and is ready to help her heal and show her that they are meant to be together.
I love these HSO guys, and Huck is special!! Josie’s story broke my heart and had me emotional, but he was there for her in every way, both in high school and later as a man. While the scenes with Josie’s ex were hard to watch, the suspense was riveting, and I knew that Huck and the HSO crew would have her covered. Josie and Huck’s relationship was so sweet in the way they evolved, it was so fun to watch two people so perfect for each other get to know each other again, including not shying away from the tough conversations! Huck went at her pace, so it was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The dramatic twists were classic HSO, and I adored the way Huck and his friends stepped up! The epilogue was the perfect way to top of this story, even if I still wanted more!😉 I can’t wait for the next installment in this exciting world!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶🌶
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and this is one of the most touching and sweet stories in it. If new to Harper Security Ops rest assure that it can be read/listened as a stand alone. Huck Davidson and Josie Day became friends in HS when placed as a team for a school project. The friendship blossomed . Realizing that the life at home was not good for Josie, he helped her as much as he could. When left to join the Army, they lost touching. Huck never forgot her nor did he know of the abuse she was experiencing at the hands of her boyfriend. Imagine their surprise when they meet again at the cafe she worked at, many years after. Sadly, the Josie he sees is obviously dejected and in an abusive relationship. When she almost dies, Huck is there to help. As the relationship moves along all seems going forward. But will Josie’s past come back? If so, will it be the end of Josie? The plot was engaging and the characters wonderful. Some of the characters from previous stories make an appearance, but do so in a very subtle manner. Though it was created by the author, the story was a reminder that domestic abuse is very real and frequently hidden by the abused and/or ignored by those around the person in need. As individuals and as a society, more needs to be done to help these individuals. Lastly, the narrators CJ Mission and Sophie Daniels do an excellent job in bringing the story to life. I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
I recently finished Escape, and I have to say, it was a delightful read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. This book is part of the Harper Security Ops series, and it beautifully blends romance with some thrilling suspense.
The story centers around Josie, a character who feels relatable with her struggles from the past, and Huck, the strong and determined hero who is all about moving forward. Their chemistry is palpable, and I loved how their relationship developed naturally. The slow-burn aspect of their romance really drew me in, making me root for them every step of the way.
What really stood out to me was the emotional depth of the story. Evans does a fantastic job of exploring themes of vulnerability and resilience, which made the characters' journeys feel authentic and relatable. The suspenseful moments were well-paced, adding just the right amount of tension without overshadowing the romance.
That said, I did notice that some of the plot points leaned into familiar tropes, which might feel a bit predictable for seasoned readers of the genre. I think a touch more originality in certain areas could have elevated the story even further.
Overall, I found Escape to be a satisfying read that balances romance and suspense quite well. With engaging characters and emotional storytelling, I’m giving it a solid four stars. I think both fans of the series and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy in this well-crafted tale!
With each book in this series I read, I fall more and more in love with the characters and storylines. Escape is book 16 in the Harper Security Ops series and it is the most emotional, gut-wrenching and heartbreaking of the series. At the turn of every page, my heart broke for Huck and Josie. Their story was impossible to put down. From the sweetness of them working together in high school to the heartbreak of what Josie went through as a child and as a woman, all I could do was hold back the tears. Josie being in an abusive relationship and knowing that she needed to get away was her only focus until Huck walked into the diner she worked in. He brought back so many good memories and gave her something to think about. Finding Josie was a dream come true for Huck. He had never forgotten about her for all these years. With his training with Harper, he knew she was hiding something from him. Determined to help her, a plan was formed but things didn't go as planned. Huck was guilt-ridden for what had happened. Life and love did overcome all the negativity that surrounded the two of them. Their story was one of being honest, communicating with the one you love, and trusting one another. Yes, this story was emotional but at the same time was filled with hope and dreams of the future and the love they shared.
Josie had a horrific home life growing up, and that's why no one in school truly knew her, including Huck, who hated going to school. That changes when they're paired up for a school project, and he truly gets to know her so they become great friends. They should have gotten together then but he felt that it was unfair to her since he was leaving for the military after graduation so they didn't see each other again for many years. Josie's life hasn't changed too much at this point as the cycle of her life has bled into her adult life so things are even worse. Fate steps in and Huck just so happens to walk into the diner that she works at, and it changes both of their lives for the better as this time he's not going to leave her behind. He works at Harper Security Ops these days, so he's going to keep her safe after a brutal beating nearly takes her out. She ends up staying with him, and as the days go by, she heals more & more not to mention they're getting closer & closer so the sparks are flying. Of course an abuser never really stays in the past so her past comes back for her & it's up to Huck to save her once again so they can have a shot at a happily ever after! I loved this author so very much, and this series is one of my favorites of all time so of course I feel like everyone needs this story in their lives! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
So, I think I found my new favorite book in the Harper Security Ops series (and yes, I have read every single one). This is the 16th book in this series by AK Evans, featuring Huck and Josie.
Escape is a heart-breaking, second chance, slow burn romance. Complete with the swoony protective hero, this romantic suspense starts when our MCs meet in high school. The first few chapters show us the foundation for our story. Josie’s life in high school was a nightmare until she was paired with partner for a project. She found friendship, safety, and solace in Huck, until they parted ways after graduation.
Their reunification, which occurs years after they parted ways, is fraught with complications. The relationship blossoms from the complications, though it is beautiful. The emotions bottled up in this story are heavy, but it is truly a satisfying read.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, however I do want to note, even though there are no trigger warnings accompanying this book, DV is depicted in several scenes. One scene in particular is slightly more graphic and is honestly gut-wrenching to read. It adds the heaviness that this kind of story carries, but also shows the healing that can take place after.
He was so anxious to get on with his life and be done with school, but a challenge from his mom made a big impact on Huck's final year of high school. His senior year became bearable and enjoyable, but he had to keep his feelings a secret so he could help Josie in her senior year of high school.
Josie just wanted to get out! She had a plan and when she turned eighteen she was going to put that plan in motion. She knew what she wanted to do with her life, but unfortunately, things don't always go to plan.
When these two reconnect their worlds are both turned around. Huck's world becomes better and his future looks brighter, but when he notices that Josie is still showing signs of her past, he's determined to protect her and keep her safe. Will she let him?
I loved this story of a second chance for Huck and Josie. The men of Harper Security Ops are great. They put their lives on the line daily, and when it comes to anyone they care deeply for, they become more fierce and protective. I can't wait to read more of this series. I will hate to see it end.
Let’s get right to it. Slight *trigger warning* Escape by A.K. Evans deals with domestic abuse. Josie Day has not had the best life. While in high school she befriends Huck Davidson. They are both drawn to each other, but it seemed like it just wasn’t the right time for them. A decision I think they both wish they could take back. Huck becomes the bright spot during Josie’s day and Josie becomes the reason Huck looks forward to school. Flash forward a couple years and a chance meeting, Josie and Huck have a chance to reconnect. Josie is in desperate need to get out of her current situation before it’s too late. Once Huck sees Josie again, he knows that there is a reason their paths crossed. He may have been shy about his feelings before, but he is determined to show Josie the good in the world. It was heartwarming watch Huck treat Josie the way she should be treated. When the men of Harper Security Ops team put their mind to something, they protect what they love. This book felt a little heavier than the others in the series but in order to see the light you have to face the dark. I really enjoyed this book and Huck quickly climbed the ladder of my favorite characters.
Escape is deeply complex and emotional. Huck and Josie have such a beautiful bond, right from the start. I love how we get a glimpse of their foundation and the start of their friendship. Huck is such an outstanding man, a true cinnamon roll alpha-protector hero with such caring, kindness, patience, and beauty. I absolutely love how he handles Josie and all of her insecurities and emotional moments. Josie is so very well portrayed and is delicately written so that the reader truly feels what her day to day life has been like. I loved watching how they interact with each other and how Huck shows her a different perspective without ever judging her choices or behaviors. This is such an emotionally complex novel—not for the faint of heart but truly worth the heartache and heartbreaking moments.
The narrators did a fantastic job of bringing this world and these characters to life. I truly felt immersed in the story from the get-go; rooting for Huck and Josie from the first moment to the last. Wow, just wow. This was absolutely stunning all around.
Escape, by A.K. Evans is another amazing book in the Harper Security Ops series. Josie is quiet and keeps to herself. Huck just wants to be done with high school so he can move on with his life. They were randomly paired up in their senior year on a school project....this led to an amazing bond and friendship. They graduate, and don't stay in touch as they both work towards their dreams.....or that was supposed to be the plan. Huck was Josie's lifeline in high school.... and becomes that again as they meet up years later as they reconnect after a chance meeting.
This book is beautifully written, but the beginning is hard to read as it hits close to home. I admit that I cried through the first parts of this book. But the book was SO worth reading....the way Huck loves Josie and the fact that he is willing to do anything to ensure she is safe....LOVE!!! I highly recommend reading this entire series. The way the author brings these characters to life is nothing short of awesome.
AK Evans has penned numerous heart-rending stories in the captivating Harper Security series, but "Escape," the 16th instalment, is undoubtedly the most gut-wrenching yet. I couldn't tear myself away from the pages; my heart physically ached for all that Josie had endured. If anyone deserves all the goodness the world has to offer, it's her.
Josie and Huck first meet in their last year of high school, forming a deep bond that hinted at something more profound beneath the surface. Years later, a chance encounter at a dinner reignites their connection as if no time had passed. However, Josie is trapped in a toxic relationship, plotting her escape. When things take a harrowing turn, Huck is there to catch her.
"Escape" is a powerful story of healing, of stepping out of the shadows, and of embracing love. Ms Evans crafts a masterpiece with this novel, weaving a tale that is as much about finding oneself as it is about finding love. The emotional depth and raw vulnerability in Josie and Huck's journey make this book an unforgettable addition to the Harper Security series.
Huck & Josie’s story is one that will stay with me for years to come. Josie met Huck during Highschool when her life was anything but pretty. Partnering on a school project brought forth a friendship that was so sweet to watch grow. Life decisions separate them for years, and when they meet again Huck realizes quickly how big of a mistake it was to leave Josie. She’s in an equally horrible situation and Huck is determined to save her and heal her broken spirit.
The way Huck loves Josie is the most amazing thing I’ve read in a long time. He’s patient, comforting, encouraging…everything Josie needs to heal from her past and become a strong, more confident woman. Josie is truly the sweetest and deserves so much more than she’s been dealt. Huck gives her that and so much more!
This is a story of abuse and healing after abuse. If these are triggers for you, keep that in mind. It’s a beautifully written story that brings light to real issues. Sometime these stories don’t end with a Huck, but thankfully this one has the most beautiful ending ❤️
This series only continues to get better with each book and I can’t wait to see what the next one brings.
I cannot express enough how much I love the characters created by this author. Each of the guys at HSO is everything we want and need in a good book boyfriend, and Huck just may be one of the very best.
I believe it’s necessary to emphasize the importance of reading this series in order to maintain the integrity of the plotlines and avoid spoilers. While each story can be read as a stand-alone, it is much better consumed knowing all the connections.
Just like every book in this series, my heart broke within the first few pages, for the situation our heroine finds herself in. Seriously, just so very sad and compelling, so much so that I could not stop reading until I was halfway in. Josie had such a rough situation, and it was very frustrating to see her battle it alone. While not triggering for me, it may be for others, so be aware of that.
Huck and Josie became friends in high school, but went their separate ways after. Their connection was reignited when they unexpectedly encountered each other at the diner where she was employed. Calling this fortunate for Josie is a massive understatement, but that’s why I’m obsessed with this series. Huck is without a doubt the perfect man for her. Their connection deepens increasingly every day, and I found immense joy in witnessing the natural energy and strong bond they had.
And, then - Wham! The imminent danger returns, and it’s an adrenaline rush to see if HSO and Huck can save her. My heart was in my throat, and my fingers furiously flipped the pages, needing the HEA.
The 16 books all have their own individual charm and uniqueness when it comes to the couples portrayed in them, but Huck’s genuine devotion and unwavering attention to Josie stands out as something fresh and enjoyable.
Once you’ve savored this series, I highly recommend delving back into the impressive catalog of this skilled author and immersing yourself in more of their works!
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy, (thank you!) and happily leave my review.
Huck met Josie when they were in high school, and a friendship evolved between them however it never went any further as he planned to join the military after high school. Years later he is back and working for Harper Security when he sees Josie again and he realizes that leaving her behind was the biggest regret of his life.
When it comes to the past Josie has a difficult time with the men in her life both in the past and in the present. She has been working towards getting out of her current situation when Huck comes back into her life and when the situation explodes it is Huck who is there every step of the way.
Josie has endured more than anyway should have to and Huck is so patient and supportive as he helps her heal both physically and emotionally. As always it is great to catch up with the other members of the team and see the deep friendships they have forged.
Another incredible book from the Harper Security Ops series! Kept me on the edge of my seat! After meeting in high school and being best friends, Huck goes in the military and Josie goes back to her abusive father till she can get out on her own. 10 years later Huck walks into a diner to find Josie working there as a waitress. He soon figures out what it going on with her abusive husband, Kurt. Huck working for Harper Security Ops takes her in when she leaves the hospital, after Kurt beats her badly. It's not an easy task to protect her, because Kurt sees her as his possession, she belongs to him. Huck like all the Harper guys has a heart of gold, so caring and protective. Can Huck save her in time when Kurt comes after her and her friend on the way home from a baby shower? Thank you Andrea for another breathtaking HEA!
This is the 16th book in this phenomenal series, and this is Huck and Josie’s story. These two were best friends in high school, and Huck left to join the military, and now 10-years later, he is back working for Harper Security. Josie is living in a toxic environment, and she is working in a diner, which is where she connects with Huck. Huck instantly recognizes that she is in trouble, and offers to help her escape, but things take a turn for the worst before she can leave. This is a well written slow burn, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, survival, friends / lovers, close proximity, suspense, danger, intrigue, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, unpredictable, twisted, haunting, and spicy addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
If you like second chance, protector, heroine in peril romances... Look no further than Escape. You meet Josie and Huck in high school when they are matched up for a group project. Josie is living in a nightmare where her father is abusive and Huck is the one bright spot in her life. At graduation they part ways. Years later, they have a chance meeting. Although Josie escaped her father, she ended up in an equally abusive relationship and is trying to plan her escape.
This was a beautiful love story where Huck's devotion and love not only saves Josie but helps her heal and realize she is worth much more than the hand she has been dealt. This is book 16 in a series but it was my first read by this author and it was completely self contained and worked as a stand alone read. Protective Alpha male and sweet HEA.
Huck and Josie’s story was emotional and sweet. The way he called her honey…swoon! When Huck and Josie went their separate ways after high school, they both thought the other were off to fulfill their dreams. Huck did. Josie didn’t get so lucky. Josie fought her way out of an abusive childhood only to end up in an abusive relationship as an adult. When they cross paths at her place of employment, Huck sees this as his second chance with the one that got away. Her abusive boyfriend had other plans and Huck steps in to save her life. Their friendship was beautiful and the slow burn to lovers even more beautiful. They were so perfectly made for each other and my heart was so happy to see Huck make all her dreams come true. CJ Mission and Sophie Daniel’s did a fantastic job narrating this emotional story.
This one was a heavier story than the others and I was little surprised not seeing a warning/trigger page because I can see this being something not everyone would be able to read.
Josie is a shy girl that no one really knows. Huck didn’t really give her much thought until they were paired up in class for a project.
Over time it becomes apparent that Josie doesn’t have a great home life but Huck does what he can as a kid himself to make her smile and the times they are together good.
Graduation comes and they go off into the world to make their dreams come true. Years later they run into each other again but Josie finds herself in another abusive relationship and desperate to get out.
Huck is absolutely amazing with her, patient, kind, gentle, reassuring….everything she really needs.
This story has a HEA but it takes time. Also there’s spice! I give it a 2 🌶️!
Escape by A.K. Evans pub 7/23/24 5 stars Josie & Huck
So many of his Ops teammates are "falling" (adding a woman to their personal team). It wasn't in Huck's plans at least until he ran back into Josie. She needed help. It wasn't even a question when he saw how she was living. She wouldn't live through it if he didn't step in to protect her. The longer they spent together while she recovered, the stronger their feelings became.
As always, the ops teammates support each other. Most have needed the others and this is no different. Their loyalty is one of my favorite parts of this series. Great characters, story, danger, action, and heat. Another wonderful read from the author. Enjoy!
I will never tire of hearing CJ Mission and Sophie Daniels in this book. I love how they both really get into the characters they ae portraying! The narrators make or break a book in audio and these two nailed Josie and Huck! Out of all the books in this series, this is the one that really got to me, emotionally. Josie and Huck first meet in high school and become instant friends. Knowing he was leaving for the military; Huck didn’t think it was fair to begin a relationship with her. Years later, they find themselves face to face again and he is determined to keep her this time.
Tropes: Second Chance Former Military Slow burn Protective Hero Not so nice home life
This can be read as a stand alone but if you haven’t read the HSO series, you are truly missing out!
Josie has had it tough her whole life but her life was always brighter when Huck was with her during their senior year of high school. Going their separate ways, they meet again many years later. Although Huck’s life is better, Josie’s is just the same if not worse. Who doesn’t love a H that knows what he wants straight away and will do all he can to get the girl?!? Huck was swoony!! Protect Josie from her past but letting her live her life to the fullest and giving her the confidence she so needs?!? Swoon!!! CJ Mission and Sophie Daniels are new narrators to me but both were brilliant.
OMG 😱 this was another great story. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down literally. Escape was an emotional roller coaster ride and entertaining. Josie and Huck meet in high school of the school year and things between them were sensational and chaotic. She was in a toxic relationship for so long she needs to break up with this guy before something happens. She had a bond with Huck and it was magical and sweet steamy hot. I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
I swear, diving into a new Harper Security Ops book is like coming home. The feel, the emotions, the concept of the stories, Evans just makes my soul happy every time. With Escape we meet Josie and oh did my heart hurt for her. I adored the connection she has with Huck. From high school to present day, that spark was there. But Huck has that protective nature like ALL the men from Harper Security! Seeing this story go through the motions was raw to read. I felt a lot to my core and how it all played out. As always with this series, there is suspense and intrigue that will keep you on your toes and have you begging for more.
I chose this rating because this was a really great book. I enjoyed pretty much all of the characters. This was a book of determination, compassion, awareness, protection, motivation, believing in yourself a nd that you can be in a healthy relationship, and also falling in love. I enjoyed Huck and Josie story. There story really began in high school. They both went there separate ways, but they came back together by mere coincidence. I'm glad they did because she needed help. You will have to read the story to find out why. This is a great story. I recommend this book to all romance readers.
Another awesome story about the men of Harper Security. This book centers on Huck finding his high school friend Cara many years after they finished high school. With regrets, Huck is elated to find Cara but sensed something was wrong. Cara is hopeful she was escaping her abusive father to a fiancé who is even more abusive. My heart breaks for Cara and happy Huck gets her away from the situation. It is hard to trust someone when you are in a situation like this but Huck helps Cara restore her belief that not all men are bad as they also discover love.
Friends in high school, then years later become lovers. Huck and Josie have known each other for years, even if they spent time apart, they never forgot the other. When Huck sees Josie working at a diner and realizes she’s in a bad situation, he doesn’t hesitate to help his longtime friend. Being in close proximity once again, these two can’t hold back the feelings they had for each other years ago. Escape has beautifully written characters, will keep you turning the page and wanting more. I received an ARC of Escape . I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions are my own.
Josie and Huck got each other through the last year of High School. Neither were ready to admit just how much they meant to each other and they drifted apart. Huck always assumed that Josie got out of her abusive home, where her father liked to neglect her and became the sonographer she dreamed of being. But when they meet again he sees that she is once again living in fear. That's something he can't and won't ignore!
Huck is the kind of man who sees a problem and longs to fix it. He doesn't care that it may impinge on his life or his work, he just wants to help and he sees Josie as his friend to help. As they spend more time together they realise that there is a lot more to them than friendship but Josie has a lot of trauma to get past before they can have their HEA.
Everything that can be seen as shaming, embarrassing, or trauma inducing is seen and heard loudly. The Harper Security OPs males are the best at communication - they sometimes put their foot in it but they own their mistakes and it's never intended in malice. Huck is just as emotive and in touch with his feelings - maybe because of growing up with his self reliant mother.
It was great to see all my fave HSO couples popping up to lend a hand and thankfully the odious ex gets what's coming to him. He's obviously a bit dim as Huck's first "chat" with the abusive slug didn't take!
High school both falling for each other and not saying a word. All those years, it took him walking into a diner.....she sure had a crappy life before Huck. I wish she hadn't gone back to that house after she told Huck about getting out, but so glad she healed. It sucks and is so true that all the women are in an abusive relationship and don't feel like they can get out. I'm so glad they found their happily ever after.