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Captive #2.5
Crystal Mac
A novella-length Prologue to Captive Series Book 4, HELL'S HILLTOP
Abducted by men in black hoods, college nerd, Elsa Hellberg, was forced into a life of addiction and subterfuge. Today, she is a trained killer known as Crystal, and wears a black hood of her own; however, she once again finds herself a captive, forced to turn against the organization that made her. Torn between her need for power and a desire to reclaim the life she once had, Crystal’s ultimate decision revolves around the enigmatic pull of one man.
Mac doesn’t take the safety of his loved ones lightly. He considers Crystal a threat, and vows to keep her in line while she completes the mission she’s been assigned. Exposed to her world of blood, lust and lethal drugs, Mac soon finds himself battling his own addiction…to Crystal. When things turn deadly, can he pull her out in time to explore the true beauty beneath the hood? Or does fate have a different plan for the woman who’d sacrifice everything to save him?
An award-winning author of romantic suspense, J. A. Dennam presents the highly anticipated third installment of her Captive Series.
Abducted by men in black hoods, college nerd, Elsa Hellberg, was forced into a life of addiction and subterfuge. Today, she is a trained killer known as Crystal, and wears a black hood of her own; however, she once again finds herself a captive, forced to turn against the organization that made her. Torn between her need for power and a desire to reclaim the life she once had, Crystal’s ultimate decision revolves around the enigmatic pull of one man.
Mac doesn’t take the safety of his loved ones lightly. He considers Crystal a threat, and vows to keep her in line while she completes the mission she’s been assigned. Exposed to her world of blood, lust and lethal drugs, Mac soon finds himself battling his own addiction…to Crystal. When things turn deadly, can he pull her out in time to explore the true beauty beneath the hood? Or does fate have a different plan for the woman who’d sacrifice everything to save him?
An award-winning author of romantic suspense, J. A. Dennam presents the highly anticipated third installment of her Captive Series.
- GenresRomanceRomantic Suspense
133 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2014
1 person is currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Dennam
12 books201 followersJ.A. DENNAM, an award winning author and RWA member, resides in a small Kansas town with her husband and children. Creativity is her strong suit having nurtured a career as a western artist and graphic artist.
Storytelling, however, has been a part of her life since childhood. At six years of age, insomnia forced her to endure many long, sleepless nights staring at the ceiling. After confessing her problem to her older sister, the two of them decided to tell each other stories to entice sleep; however, the inevitable snore always tore through her sister’s nose before she could utter the words Once Upon a Time. So the stories began to flow in silence, her imagination taking her to quiet, private places so enthralling, the sudden trick was to stay awake.
Those habits carried on to adulthood until the need to purge her stories demanded she put them in print. Her fascination with romance, fast cars and adventure films is what structures her novels today.
Storytelling, however, has been a part of her life since childhood. At six years of age, insomnia forced her to endure many long, sleepless nights staring at the ceiling. After confessing her problem to her older sister, the two of them decided to tell each other stories to entice sleep; however, the inevitable snore always tore through her sister’s nose before she could utter the words Once Upon a Time. So the stories began to flow in silence, her imagination taking her to quiet, private places so enthralling, the sudden trick was to stay awake.
Those habits carried on to adulthood until the need to purge her stories demanded she put them in print. Her fascination with romance, fast cars and adventure films is what structures her novels today.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 21, 2019
By popular demand, one of my most beloved characters in this series, Mac, finally gets his own story. Expect to be left hanging, folks, since this is a prologue to HELL'S HILLTOP, the final installment of my Captive Series, which will follow shortly after.
You can also expect action, nail-biting suspense, and spontaneous bouts of hanky-panky as Crystal and Mac embark on a mission to find an elusive chemist who makes the drug she needs to stay alive.
You can also expect action, nail-biting suspense, and spontaneous bouts of hanky-panky as Crystal and Mac embark on a mission to find an elusive chemist who makes the drug she needs to stay alive.
July 24, 2014
Crystal Mac was free for a couple of days on Smashwords in celebration of the release of Hell’s Hilltop. Me being the opportunist immediately downloaded it.
Oh my! I was not at all expecting to have any feelings for a totally new character in just 100 short pages but somehow J.A Dennam made it possible. Crystal is an absolute delight. She is cheeky with a hidden agenda and totally reminds me of Rena in various scenes. They have similar sarcasm and come-backs. No wonder they are sisters. Well, half-sisters. I totally understand the reason behind Rena’s madness and everything she did now.
Mac is there as always, a rock-solid man for support. He is a teddy bear under all his large muscular body and bald head with moustache. Loved how Crystal saw through him and wanted a piece of his soft-side if even for just a little while.
They both broke my heart in this short, fast paced action novella. The twists were completely unexpected but thrilling nonetheless. The ending left my heart-pounding and I want to get my hands on Hell’s Hilltop immediately to know what happens next. This is so not fair! Lucky me, the wait is over, the book is out and I get to read it tomorrow after writing this review.
Oh my! I was not at all expecting to have any feelings for a totally new character in just 100 short pages but somehow J.A Dennam made it possible. Crystal is an absolute delight. She is cheeky with a hidden agenda and totally reminds me of Rena in various scenes. They have similar sarcasm and come-backs. No wonder they are sisters. Well, half-sisters. I totally understand the reason behind Rena’s madness and everything she did now.
Mac is there as always, a rock-solid man for support. He is a teddy bear under all his large muscular body and bald head with moustache. Loved how Crystal saw through him and wanted a piece of his soft-side if even for just a little while.
They both broke my heart in this short, fast paced action novella. The twists were completely unexpected but thrilling nonetheless. The ending left my heart-pounding and I want to get my hands on Hell’s Hilltop immediately to know what happens next. This is so not fair! Lucky me, the wait is over, the book is out and I get to read it tomorrow after writing this review.
April 5, 2014
I am reluctant to read novellas because they usually leave the reader hanging with unanswered questions. J. A. Dennam delivered her usual exceptional work in a this novella. I am a fan of the this series, and this novella could be read as a stand alone, but the story will make more sense if you have read the previous books in the series. I was curious how military man, former salvage yard worker becomes a nanny and J.A. has a perfect explanation. I love Mac's character and I hope he makes an appearance in the next book in the series.
December 5, 2014
talmente enojada con este final Crystal y Mac merecían su felices para siempre
November 27, 2018
No!!!! No puede terminar así!!!!! Me rehúso a creerlo, tiene que haber más!!!!
March 31, 2014
I'm still slightly speechless... I started reading this series back when we were asked to participate in the Blog Tour for Truth and Humility and I can't say I've ever read anything like this series.
Crystal Mac was no different then the first two books, heat stopping moments that have you on the edge of your seat no knowing what's going to happen next! The way the author portrays the characters makes you feel like your living in the moment with them.
This short and totally unexpected story gripped my heart and made me fall in love with secondary characters that I hadn't given much thought to throughout the other books. There were some truly UNEXPECTED moments in this novella that I think fans of the series will be shocked especially after the way the last book ended... Hold onto your hats it's a crazy ride!
I was stressed from the first word to the last and was left with more questions then answers. I feel like I used to when I watched the TV Series LOST, wanting to pull your hair out to understand what this is all truly about. Just when you think you have some sort of handle on what is going on, you find out that your still fairly clueless and just need MORE!!!! I can't wait for the next book to release it's going to be a killer to have to wait for it!
Crystal Mac was no different then the first two books, heat stopping moments that have you on the edge of your seat no knowing what's going to happen next! The way the author portrays the characters makes you feel like your living in the moment with them.
This short and totally unexpected story gripped my heart and made me fall in love with secondary characters that I hadn't given much thought to throughout the other books. There were some truly UNEXPECTED moments in this novella that I think fans of the series will be shocked especially after the way the last book ended... Hold onto your hats it's a crazy ride!
I was stressed from the first word to the last and was left with more questions then answers. I feel like I used to when I watched the TV Series LOST, wanting to pull your hair out to understand what this is all truly about. Just when you think you have some sort of handle on what is going on, you find out that your still fairly clueless and just need MORE!!!! I can't wait for the next book to release it's going to be a killer to have to wait for it!
April 2, 2014
gifted book for honest review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
In CRYSTAL MAC, we get to follow our favorite secondary character...Mac. Yes! I listened to you and granted him an important role in the grand finale. Our reluctant hero must "babysit" a former enemy, Crystal, while she carries out an important mission to ensure the safety of those he loves. However, her agenda seems to be a little off, geared more toward torturing him with her feminine wiles. But, will the wild ride she takes him on earn his affection? His respect? Or both?
Absolutely positively loved this book. I fell in love with the characters in the first book of this series & the story line in each book is amazing & keeps you turning pages quickly..I've been waiting for this book forever & couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next. The characters are so real you seemed to really know them. The ending was definitely a surprise & I'm dying to read the next book in the series Hell's Hilltop. I've read several books by this author and she's AMAZING...I can't wait to read more...
Jennifer
In CRYSTAL MAC, we get to follow our favorite secondary character...Mac. Yes! I listened to you and granted him an important role in the grand finale. Our reluctant hero must "babysit" a former enemy, Crystal, while she carries out an important mission to ensure the safety of those he loves. However, her agenda seems to be a little off, geared more toward torturing him with her feminine wiles. But, will the wild ride she takes him on earn his affection? His respect? Or both?
Absolutely positively loved this book. I fell in love with the characters in the first book of this series & the story line in each book is amazing & keeps you turning pages quickly..I've been waiting for this book forever & couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next. The characters are so real you seemed to really know them. The ending was definitely a surprise & I'm dying to read the next book in the series Hell's Hilltop. I've read several books by this author and she's AMAZING...I can't wait to read more...
Jennifer
March 28, 2014
In CRYSTAL MAC, we get to follow our favorite secondary character...Mac. Our reluctant hero must "babysit" a former enemy, Crystal, while she carries out an important mission to ensure the safety of those he loves. However, her agenda seems to be a little off, geared more toward torturing him with her feminine wiles. But, will the wild ride she takes him on earn his affection? His respect? Or both?
Absolutely positively loved this book. I fell in love with the characters in the first book of this series & the story line in each book is amazing & keeps you turning pages quickly..I've been waiting for this book forever & couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next. The characters are so real you seemed to really know them. The ending was definitely a surprise & I'm dying to read the next book in the series Hell's Hilltop. I've read several books by this author and she's AMAZING...I can't wait to read more..
Absolutely positively loved this book. I fell in love with the characters in the first book of this series & the story line in each book is amazing & keeps you turning pages quickly..I've been waiting for this book forever & couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next. The characters are so real you seemed to really know them. The ending was definitely a surprise & I'm dying to read the next book in the series Hell's Hilltop. I've read several books by this author and she's AMAZING...I can't wait to read more..
July 3, 2014
Crystal is the only female ghost the IGP created. This is a special ops organization, basically hired assassins. These assassins are created with a special drug that gives them extraordinary hearing, smell, speed, super-strength and healing powers. I can't really say much more without spoilers for the first two books.
Crystal is a very complex character. In the last book I was torn to hate her or like her. I will say she redeems herself In this one and I really like her. She is spunky and tough on the outside, but soft and sweeten him inside. She wants only what most of us want and that’s to be loved.
The story is action packed with some twists and turns, full of nailbiting suspense, and some hot sex too.
I can’t wait for Hell’s Hilltop. I wonder if Rena and Ty will be able to redeem themselves?
i recieved a free copy form the author for an honest review.
Crystal is a very complex character. In the last book I was torn to hate her or like her. I will say she redeems herself In this one and I really like her. She is spunky and tough on the outside, but soft and sweeten him inside. She wants only what most of us want and that’s to be loved.
The story is action packed with some twists and turns, full of nailbiting suspense, and some hot sex too.
I can’t wait for Hell’s Hilltop. I wonder if Rena and Ty will be able to redeem themselves?
i recieved a free copy form the author for an honest review.
April 9, 2014
This is the novella prologue for the final book in the Captive Series. Crystal Mac is fast paced and left me hanging at the edge of my seat. The story continues of the Cahill and Bennett families. JA Dennam has gifted us with a new book boyfriend. Mac. We met him first in the salvage yard as the quiet big guy who becomes a daycare provider. He now has a place in my heart as a big strong tough gorgeous guy with a lot of heart. Mac and Crystal are at odds and don't trust one another. The sparks ignite and we reap the rewards of the fantastic writing I have come to know from this author and this series.
Hell's Hilltop will be the next and final book in this series. I hope we don't have to wait long.
Hell's Hilltop will be the next and final book in this series. I hope we don't have to wait long.
January 3, 2015
RESEÑA y CRÍTICA completa en el blog... http://adictabooks.blogspot.com/2015/...
Este relato corto la autora nos avanza como continua la saga de captive de forma breve pero a la vez intensa.
Esta reseña debería de haberla publicado cuando me leí la novela en octubre, pero entre unas cosas y otras se me paso. Y como sabéis tengo dos sagas comenzadas en inglés y poco a poco me las voy leyendo ya que me cuesta entenderlas ya que voy con el diccionario al lado jaja.
Me gusta que la autora siga en la línea del misterio y suspense para ir desvelándonos los secretos más ocultos de los personajes, de la trama de conspiración del gobierno pero sobre todo como enfoca la historia de amor alrededor de todo este engranaje.
Este relato corto la autora nos avanza como continua la saga de captive de forma breve pero a la vez intensa.
Esta reseña debería de haberla publicado cuando me leí la novela en octubre, pero entre unas cosas y otras se me paso. Y como sabéis tengo dos sagas comenzadas en inglés y poco a poco me las voy leyendo ya que me cuesta entenderlas ya que voy con el diccionario al lado jaja.
Me gusta que la autora siga en la línea del misterio y suspense para ir desvelándonos los secretos más ocultos de los personajes, de la trama de conspiración del gobierno pero sobre todo como enfoca la historia de amor alrededor de todo este engranaje.
April 7, 2014
I got to read this before it made its way out into the world and I have to say this novella is a MUST have!! I’ve read all the books in this series and I have to admit I liked Mac’s character in them, I thought he was sweet. But now, OMG, he’s just down right hot! It gives me chills just thinking about him. JA took a teddy bear and turned him into a real man’s man, not to mention every woman’s wet dream. And Crystal is more than enough woman to keep him satisfied. This story is fast paced with lots of twists and I LOVED it. Thank you for creating such a wonderful addition. The only problem is… want MORE! Seriously I can’t wait for the next book!!!
May 23, 2014
I'm a big fan of the Captive Series and can't wait to read the next book!! :) Crystal Mac is a great tease and follow up to the second book, and a hint of what whirlwind Hell's Hilltop will take us on! ;) I'm excited to read what shocking thing we'll find out next, and what will happen to Crystal and Mac.
July 14, 2014
This was a novella but, I liked it and, it didn't feel too short. It was good to see more of the gang and more of Mac.
I really liked Crystal. She seemed to want to change and reclaim what was taken from her.
Lots of action in the story. The end leaves me wanting to jump right into the next book.
I really liked Crystal. She seemed to want to change and reclaim what was taken from her.
Lots of action in the story. The end leaves me wanting to jump right into the next book.
July 29, 2016
OH! MY! GOD!! can this author write romantic suspense or what??? I swear my blood pressure is through the roof right now! Hell's Hilltop comes out on the 8th - everyone should read and catchup before then!
June 18, 2014
It's short, sweet and kicka$$. This novella leaves you longing for the next book to get here quick.
October 25, 2014
Los personajes Mac y Crystal tienen una quimica importante, y puede parecer un poco rápido pero, recordando el libro anterior, se entiende.
Me gusto lo suficiente como para terminar la serie.
Me gusto lo suficiente como para terminar la serie.
October 13, 2015
Que final de mierda, me hizo llorar. ¿Por qué tuvo que terminar así? ¿Por qué? Lo único que espero es que en el próximo libro encuentren la manera de arreglar éste final.
November 15, 2016
3.5 Stars
October 25, 2014
Maldito final!!! :(
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews