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Hostage Rescue Team #2
Targeted
They were partners once
After an attack on the job that nearly killed her, Special Agent Celida Morales is determined to salvage her reputation in the FBI and get back to the career she loves. Domestic terrorism has left its mark on her—literally—and now she’s more determined than ever to leave her mark on it. But when a hostage situation takes an unexpected turn she’s confronted with the realization that she may not only lose the hostages, but also the only man she’s lost her heart to.
To be together now, this time they’ll have to risk it all
Hostage Rescue Team assault team leader Brad Tucker has always wanted Celida but professional conduct and her unwillingness to commit stood in the way. For more than a year he’s been juggling the increasing demands of his job and personal life, but after Celida was almost killed, none of those reasons matter anymore. Tuck knows it’s time to claim her and he’s ready to lay it all on the line. Then an op turns deadly and it’s a race to bring down a well-trained enemy bent on settling an old score, a man who doesn’t care how many innocent people get in his way.
After an attack on the job that nearly killed her, Special Agent Celida Morales is determined to salvage her reputation in the FBI and get back to the career she loves. Domestic terrorism has left its mark on her—literally—and now she’s more determined than ever to leave her mark on it. But when a hostage situation takes an unexpected turn she’s confronted with the realization that she may not only lose the hostages, but also the only man she’s lost her heart to.
To be together now, this time they’ll have to risk it all
Hostage Rescue Team assault team leader Brad Tucker has always wanted Celida but professional conduct and her unwillingness to commit stood in the way. For more than a year he’s been juggling the increasing demands of his job and personal life, but after Celida was almost killed, none of those reasons matter anymore. Tuck knows it’s time to claim her and he’s ready to lay it all on the line. Then an op turns deadly and it’s a race to bring down a well-trained enemy bent on settling an old score, a man who doesn’t care how many innocent people get in his way.
275 pages, ebook
First published August 26, 2014
168 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Kaylea Cross
99 books1,801 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
September 13, 2014
3.75 stars. Review posted August 15, 2014
In Targeted, Kaylea Cross is pairing up former Marine and FBI Agent Celida Morales with her former partner, Brad Tucker (Tuck). Tuck has always had feelings for Celida but never acted upon them. Now, since they are not partners anymore, he must let her know how much he wants her in his life. But more importantly, he wants to know if Celida's feelings are reciprocative. Also, Celida has never had a long-term relationship and Tuck wants a real commitment, not a short fling. Is Celida ready for that? While dealing with a myriad of feelings, Tuck's sick father, and figuring out how to make their relationship work, a bomb planter is on the loose.
Compared to Marked, Targeted was definitely much better. The author dedicated more time to the MCs budding relationship and you can expect a couple thoughtful scenes. Page-wise, the book is still a bit on the shorter side. Regardless, I felt the background of the main couple (especially Tuck) was nicely fleshed-out. Midway through, there was a really hot and very well-written sex scene that was proof of how exceptionally good Celida and Tuck harmonized in thebedroom kitchen.
As a very nice bonus, Bauer and Zoe have been set up in Targeted and I liked them very much. I think they'll make an interesting couple in the next book. Zoe is Tuck's cousin, has a law degree and gave up her well-paid job in order to write romantic horror full-time (Clay: What the fuck is that?). She's into Gothic clothes, 'adequate' make-up, and doesn't feel the least bit embarrassed to show off her crazy-ass hair. She's a self-assured and candid personality and it shows. Hah. I think it's going to be fun watching the stoic Clay falling for her.
Here are a couple examples of their interaction:
"Your flight good?"
"Yeah, it was great. I sat next to this really interesting guy and we talked nineteenth century romantic poetry the whole time."
God, he'd rather take a turn in the gas chamber without a mask than be subjected to that.
Targeted is a solidly written and entertaining RS that includes a rather long and great action part and, due to some emotional scenes, might tug at your heart strings also. The story ends with a spicy epilogue. If you'd like to read a quick, sexy story with some action then give it a try. It can be read as a standalone.
I expect the next book to be worthy of a straight four-star rating and, at the same time, I'm eagerly awaiting Matt DeLuca's story. He's a scrumptious man in his mid-forties and you know me, I'm all for mature characters. I'm sold already.
Recommended read.
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy.
**ARC courtesy of Kaylea Cross in exchange for an honest review**
In Targeted, Kaylea Cross is pairing up former Marine and FBI Agent Celida Morales with her former partner, Brad Tucker (Tuck). Tuck has always had feelings for Celida but never acted upon them. Now, since they are not partners anymore, he must let her know how much he wants her in his life. But more importantly, he wants to know if Celida's feelings are reciprocative. Also, Celida has never had a long-term relationship and Tuck wants a real commitment, not a short fling. Is Celida ready for that? While dealing with a myriad of feelings, Tuck's sick father, and figuring out how to make their relationship work, a bomb planter is on the loose.
Compared to Marked, Targeted was definitely much better. The author dedicated more time to the MCs budding relationship and you can expect a couple thoughtful scenes. Page-wise, the book is still a bit on the shorter side. Regardless, I felt the background of the main couple (especially Tuck) was nicely fleshed-out. Midway through, there was a really hot and very well-written sex scene that was proof of how exceptionally good Celida and Tuck harmonized in the
As a very nice bonus, Bauer and Zoe have been set up in Targeted and I liked them very much. I think they'll make an interesting couple in the next book. Zoe is Tuck's cousin, has a law degree and gave up her well-paid job in order to write romantic horror full-time (Clay: What the fuck is that?). She's into Gothic clothes, 'adequate' make-up, and doesn't feel the least bit embarrassed to show off her crazy-ass hair. She's a self-assured and candid personality and it shows. Hah. I think it's going to be fun watching the stoic Clay falling for her.
Here are a couple examples of their interaction:
"Your flight good?"
"Yeah, it was great. I sat next to this really interesting guy and we talked nineteenth century romantic poetry the whole time."
God, he'd rather take a turn in the gas chamber without a mask than be subjected to that.
Targeted is a solidly written and entertaining RS that includes a rather long and great action part and, due to some emotional scenes, might tug at your heart strings also. The story ends with a spicy epilogue. If you'd like to read a quick, sexy story with some action then give it a try. It can be read as a standalone.
I expect the next book to be worthy of a straight four-star rating and, at the same time, I'm eagerly awaiting Matt DeLuca's story. He's a scrumptious man in his mid-forties and you know me, I'm all for mature characters. I'm sold already.
Recommended read.
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy.
**ARC courtesy of Kaylea Cross in exchange for an honest review**
April 24, 2019
FBI Agent Celida Morales and Hostage Rescue Team Leader Brad (Tuck) Tucker were partners two years ago before he left to join the FBI’s elite unit. Both had unexpressed strong attractions to each other but it took her almost losing her life in an attack for Tuck to decide now was the time to be the first one to step forward and declare his true feelings. Celida is back on the job after recovering from her physical injuries but she’s hiding her emotional issues related to those events. She’s suffering from PTSD, sleeplessness because of recurring nightmares and a pile of guilt on top of it all because she didn’t effectively protect herself and the woman she was guarding. As these two attempt to transform their relationship, they must contend with a dangerous threat from a man seeking revenge.
We get both Celida and Tuck’s points of view and, as an added bonus, that of the man who is presenting an enormous threat in the city. The tension was really strong and once the action started, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough nor put the book down. The attention to the intricate details was incredible, the effect being that I felt like part of the situations...could see it, hear the sounds and silence, smell the fear. It was so well done. I really liked Celida and Tuck, though their romance ramped up a bit fast. Sure, they’d known each other for a long time but shifting from friendship to a committed relationship takes more time than theirs seemed to.
I enjoyed this story, especially when the focus was on the suspense aspects. While I had some problems with the speed of the romance, I still liked these two individually and as a couple. The issues related to PTSD and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on both the victim and family members was handled so deftly. The insights were at a higher level than what I normally see in fiction. I could relate and felt the author got it right. This was a really good story and the set up for the next one was a very good tease and intriguing. I’m liking this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
We get both Celida and Tuck’s points of view and, as an added bonus, that of the man who is presenting an enormous threat in the city. The tension was really strong and once the action started, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough nor put the book down. The attention to the intricate details was incredible, the effect being that I felt like part of the situations...could see it, hear the sounds and silence, smell the fear. It was so well done. I really liked Celida and Tuck, though their romance ramped up a bit fast. Sure, they’d known each other for a long time but shifting from friendship to a committed relationship takes more time than theirs seemed to.
I enjoyed this story, especially when the focus was on the suspense aspects. While I had some problems with the speed of the romance, I still liked these two individually and as a couple. The issues related to PTSD and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on both the victim and family members was handled so deftly. The insights were at a higher level than what I normally see in fiction. I could relate and felt the author got it right. This was a really good story and the set up for the next one was a very good tease and intriguing. I’m liking this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
April 15, 2019
Action was top notched, as always for Kaylea Cross, romance was hot and steamy and of the friends that catch fire variety. Loved both Tuck and Celida, although Celida did go a tad martyr during the hostage crisis. Tuck was a wonderful hero and they truly deserve their HEA.
Celida and Tuck were partners for two years and grew to both like and respect each other. He moved on to HRT and she went into Domestic Terrorism. They kept in touch, but the budding feelings from their partnership days, well all relationships, require time and effort. When Celida is almost killed, Tuck realizes that time is not guaranteed to anyone and decides it's time to formally declare himself.
Celida's childhood was totally messed up and she has a tough time believing that anyone will stick for the long term. She has thrown herself into her job and is more than a little off balance after her attack. PTSD and self doubt about her abilities plague her and Tuck decides he wants their relationship to move to another level. It's a lot to process and now there is a very smart nutcase blowing up FBI related facilities. Tuck and Celida are both right in the middle of the latest bomb threat and this time there are innocent hostages.
Celida and Tuck were partners for two years and grew to both like and respect each other. He moved on to HRT and she went into Domestic Terrorism. They kept in touch, but the budding feelings from their partnership days, well all relationships, require time and effort. When Celida is almost killed, Tuck realizes that time is not guaranteed to anyone and decides it's time to formally declare himself.
Celida's childhood was totally messed up and she has a tough time believing that anyone will stick for the long term. She has thrown herself into her job and is more than a little off balance after her attack. PTSD and self doubt about her abilities plague her and Tuck decides he wants their relationship to move to another level. It's a lot to process and now there is a very smart nutcase blowing up FBI related facilities. Tuck and Celida are both right in the middle of the latest bomb threat and this time there are innocent hostages.
January 7, 2016
The second book in Kaylea Cross' Hostage Rescue Team series. We were introduced to Hostage Rescue Team assault team leader Brad Tucker and Special Agent Celida Morales in book one Marked. This book continues shortly after the first one ended. Brad and Celida were once partners until Brad, or Tuck, as everyone calls him, is accepted into HRT. Now there is a bomber loose and he's hitting too close to home.
I really liked this couple. They were likable and strong and independent. They were made for each other. This series is mainly connected by characters. So I guess you could read them as standalones. But some people may want to start from the beginning in order to get to know the characters that will have their own story in the series. So far I have no problem in recommending this series to Romantic Suspense fans.
I really liked this couple. They were likable and strong and independent. They were made for each other. This series is mainly connected by characters. So I guess you could read them as standalones. But some people may want to start from the beginning in order to get to know the characters that will have their own story in the series. So far I have no problem in recommending this series to Romantic Suspense fans.
June 7, 2020
I was not in love with either of the MCs. It was ok, but it was not fabulous. So far the romantic storylines of this series are not my favorites.
November 22, 2017
Tuck and Celida intrigued me so much in MARKED that I immediately started TARGETED after finishing it.
I love the glimpses we had of them when they were partners; they definitely had chemistry and tension. I love how they reconnected and confessed their feelings for each other (I love clear communication between adults, LOL). As for the plot, it's definitely more interesting than in book 1, and I feel like the suspense element is better in TARGETED than in MARKED.
On to Clay and Zoe's book, yay!
I love the glimpses we had of them when they were partners; they definitely had chemistry and tension. I love how they reconnected and confessed their feelings for each other (I love clear communication between adults, LOL). As for the plot, it's definitely more interesting than in book 1, and I feel like the suspense element is better in TARGETED than in MARKED.
On to Clay and Zoe's book, yay!
August 7, 2021
I loved Celida in the previous book so I was so excited to get her story in TARGETED. We see a lot more vulnerability for Celida than before because she's struggling to overcome her recent shooting but she's still the tough, badass special agent. Trust doesn't come easy to Celida but she's always cared deeply for Tuck and doesn't want to lose him. Tuck knows that Celida has feelings for him but he doesn't want to just be another one night stand, he wants all or nothing when it comes to Celida. I loved these two together because they're both so honest and genuine with their feelings. In fact, I thought the relationship angst would last longer but I was happy to see it sorted out early on.
But things still aren't easy for Tuck and Celida because they're working to find the man who's targeted the HRT crew and is putting Tuck's life in danger. In addition to that, both Tuck and Celida are dealing with personal issues that they're trying to keep under lock. I found the suspense story for this one very interesting because it's less action packed and more psychological. We also had some build up for Bauer and Zoe's story and I'm really looking forward to that.
Content Warning: Parent with Alzheimer's; death of a parent; Celida has PTSD and nightmares after a shooting; references to losing a spouse and child, depression, suicidal thoughts
But things still aren't easy for Tuck and Celida because they're working to find the man who's targeted the HRT crew and is putting Tuck's life in danger. In addition to that, both Tuck and Celida are dealing with personal issues that they're trying to keep under lock. I found the suspense story for this one very interesting because it's less action packed and more psychological. We also had some build up for Bauer and Zoe's story and I'm really looking forward to that.
Content Warning: Parent with Alzheimer's; death of a parent; Celida has PTSD and nightmares after a shooting; references to losing a spouse and child, depression, suicidal thoughts
September 4, 2014
This isn't going to be a review as such, more of a thank you. Having lost my Dad to Alzheimer's in January, I could relate to everything that Tuck was going through (including my dad telling me when I was younger that if he ever got Alzheimer's to 'take him out the back paddock and shoot him'). I'll never forget the day that Dad didn't recognise me anymore. That was one of the hardest days of my life. Thank you Kaylea Cross for portraying the realities of that horrible disease and that it's not the same as just dementia and 'forgetting things'. It's a killer of the worst kind.
September 12, 2014
***3.5 stars****
September 26, 2019
Loved this story!
February 16, 2020
In one word this word was AMAZING! The couple in this book made their appearance in KC's first book in the series called Marked. I loved it but have to say this one is even better to me. Better because you got to spend time with the couple. While her first book did a wonderful job convincing me the love shared between the H/h was there you just got a longer time to grow attached to her characters in this one.
Brad Tucker (Tuck) was great because he is a man who knew himself and was done running from his feelings he had for Celida. He is so in tune with her that you have to love him even more. They were partners and he is finally ready to make his move. You will love the chemistry between these two. There is no defensive behavior where one is trying to outdo the other but a low humming current between each other. So Brad makes his move and just lays it out there and you have moments like, "The day you were wounded it scared the hell out of me that I'd almost lost you. You matter to me. Always have. I want you. To be with you."
Celida Morales (sunshine) is afraid to let anyone in but with Tuck she just can't stand not knowing where their relationship is going. The poor thing has loved him forever but wants to hear from him what his intents are. She's really cool to me because she's tough as nails but still sexy. She wears the pencil skirts, heels and less, but I'm jumping ahead. LOL. She has Tuck pouring his heart out but can she do the same that's the question? He knows it too because she has had nothing but one night stands and he doesn't just want it to be about the sex.
The sex lets talk about that. I found it really good. It was erotic and hot but I think that is because the author did a great job at building up the moment when they finally reached that point. Tuck was a total tease before that. Making her work for it with words like, "I want you to wait for it, fantasize about it tonight after I'm gone. I'll make it worth the wait. If you want more, it's gonna be my way. And you should know that I like control and I like it a little rough."
Tuck is also dealing with a father that has the onset of Alzheimer's and so his cousin Zoe comes to visit with him and see her friend Celida. I liked how close those two were and her spunk. She is goth and heavy make up but ends up getting attached to Brads roommate Clay Bauer. I can't wait to read their story next. The villain in this story was hard to hate for me and the author lets you spend time in his head and it humanized him to a point that you sympathized with him. I said to a point.
Don't worry if this is the first book in the series you've chosen to read because you will not be left out of the story. The book fills in any holes from the previous but believe me you'll want to read it. I really get pulled in by the authors writing and in a lot of series you run the risk of one or two of the books working while some don't work so well. This has not happened to me with this series for me. They are getting better but each one is special in it's own way. Enjoy!
Brad Tucker (Tuck) was great because he is a man who knew himself and was done running from his feelings he had for Celida. He is so in tune with her that you have to love him even more. They were partners and he is finally ready to make his move. You will love the chemistry between these two. There is no defensive behavior where one is trying to outdo the other but a low humming current between each other. So Brad makes his move and just lays it out there and you have moments like, "The day you were wounded it scared the hell out of me that I'd almost lost you. You matter to me. Always have. I want you. To be with you."
Celida Morales (sunshine) is afraid to let anyone in but with Tuck she just can't stand not knowing where their relationship is going. The poor thing has loved him forever but wants to hear from him what his intents are. She's really cool to me because she's tough as nails but still sexy. She wears the pencil skirts, heels and less, but I'm jumping ahead. LOL. She has Tuck pouring his heart out but can she do the same that's the question? He knows it too because she has had nothing but one night stands and he doesn't just want it to be about the sex.
The sex lets talk about that. I found it really good. It was erotic and hot but I think that is because the author did a great job at building up the moment when they finally reached that point. Tuck was a total tease before that. Making her work for it with words like, "I want you to wait for it, fantasize about it tonight after I'm gone. I'll make it worth the wait. If you want more, it's gonna be my way. And you should know that I like control and I like it a little rough."
Tuck is also dealing with a father that has the onset of Alzheimer's and so his cousin Zoe comes to visit with him and see her friend Celida. I liked how close those two were and her spunk. She is goth and heavy make up but ends up getting attached to Brads roommate Clay Bauer. I can't wait to read their story next. The villain in this story was hard to hate for me and the author lets you spend time in his head and it humanized him to a point that you sympathized with him. I said to a point.
Don't worry if this is the first book in the series you've chosen to read because you will not be left out of the story. The book fills in any holes from the previous but believe me you'll want to read it. I really get pulled in by the authors writing and in a lot of series you run the risk of one or two of the books working while some don't work so well. This has not happened to me with this series for me. They are getting better but each one is special in it's own way. Enjoy!
May 25, 2021
I have to be honest here... this book has some mutual pining and some trauma that isn't dealt with stuff. Those are two of my least favorite tropes. Celinda's dad abandoned her and her mother, her mother raised her as a friend and consistently told her not to fall for men because they're all bad in the end.. So Celinda doesn't do longterm relationships, is a commitment phobe (which girl! same!) but then she's also dealing with ptsd stuff relating to stuff that happened prior to the book. I understand why authors do this, I just wish it was little less common. Why do "badass" women in books (Eve Dallas from J.D. Robb's In Death series, Celinda, so many others that I can't currently think of) refuse to deal with any of these emotions? Can't we have some people who go to therapy? Use coping skills? It doesn't mean that they aren't still dealing with the effects of the trauma, it just gives them more depth as an individual. People who have undergone traumatic events are not responsible for those events, but it makes them a lot more likable when they are trying to deal with those things instead of just being assholes to those around them as a result of the trauma. Does that make sense? This really wasn't about this books, oops.
Overall though, I think Cross writes a good story and will be continuing on with this series.
Overall though, I think Cross writes a good story and will be continuing on with this series.
September 29, 2014
4.25-4.50 RATING- Even better than the first book in the series. If you like romantic suspense and haven't started this series, I recommend it. The sex scenes aren't over the top or excessive but they are very well done and sexy. Loved that the heroine was strong and capable. Loved that the hero was determined and loyal.
I've read a lot of Kaylea Cross over the last several months and can definitely say that her writing keeps getting better and better. I can't wait to get Zoe and Bauers story next and look forward to reading the rest of this series. Definitely a must buy for me.
I've read a lot of Kaylea Cross over the last several months and can definitely say that her writing keeps getting better and better. I can't wait to get Zoe and Bauers story next and look forward to reading the rest of this series. Definitely a must buy for me.
August 29, 2014
All I can say is WOW!! Kaylea did it again. The plot twists and turns, the love of Tuck and Cilida, and what will happen to Bauer. I'm begging for the next book already and I just finished this one!!!
December 10, 2015
4 Stars -
Targeted
is an adult romantic suspense thriller by Kaylea Cross and the 2nd book in her
Hostage Rescue Team
series.
May 30, 2018
3.75 stars.
Targeted is book two in the Hostage Rescue Team series, following a group of FBI agents specializing in hostage situations. We met our main characters, former partners Celida and Tuck, in the previous installment and are now getting more of their story.
Special Agent Celida Morales is suffering from PTSD and night terrors following the attack she failed to prevent when she was tasked to protect Rachel. Terrified that her co-workers will discover how much the incident is still affecting her and doubt her ability to do her job, she hides her insecurities as best she can. But Tuck won't let her bury her fears anymore, and she finds herself grateful to have someone to confide in. Even if it is the frustratingly sexy man who's been sending her mixed signals.
Assault team leader Brad Tucker is dealing with his own set of personal issues, on top of putting his all into his job. Losing his mom at a young age, his dad became his hero, and his rapidly declining health hasn't been easy for him. Despite everything, he still tries his best to be there for Celida, the woman he's always cared for.
Tuck and Celida were partners back in the day, and formed a strong bond of trust and loyalty. However, there has always been an underlying mutual attraction between them that both were reluctant to explore. Until now. After Celida has a few brushes with death, it's the push Tuck needs to lay it all on the line, even if he risks getting hurt in the process
I gotta be honest, this couple just didn't do it for me. I much preferred Jake and Rachel in Marked. There was nothing really wrong with Tuck and Celida, I just had trouble connecting with them as characters. I can't really pinpoint why. They had some aspects to their relationship I liked though; I love the friends-to-lovers trope, I thought it was super sweet how Celida spent time with his dad at the nursing home, and I loved how protective and caring Tuck was with her.
Celida's attitude regarding her PTSD bothered me a little. I felt bad for her, I really did, but I also thought she was being naive not seeking help. In her line of work, this is not something you can leave unchecked. It can creep up at the worst times and put her life and the lives of those around her in danger.
Even though the start was a little slow and I wasn't too engaged at first, I was totally hooked during the second half. Once we hit the peak in the action and suspense portion of the book, the rest was really good! I found I enjoyed reading the scenes with the "villain" more than the main characters. That doesn't often happen with me. I'm a romantic at heart, so the romance is usually the highlight of a romantic suspense book. But in this case it was the opposite. I was shocked to find I was actually sympathizing with the bad guy. But that's just it, he's not really a bad guy. He's just a sad, broken man who did some horrible things out of grief. Antagonists with layers are so much more appealing to read about than the typical villain who's just evil through and through, and this one was done extremely well. I even shed a few tears over Ken's story.
So that coupled with the action during the second half immensely increased my enjoyment level. I felt the tension and anxiety of the situation as if I was there, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was nerve-wracking and exciting! So while I enjoyed the characters from the first book more, I definitely preferred the suspense plot of this one. It was excellent!
We got a glimpse of Clay and Zoe, the central couple of the next book, and I'm looking forward to reading their story. This is a quick, entertaining romantic suspense series and I'll definitely be continuing.
Targeted is book two in the Hostage Rescue Team series, following a group of FBI agents specializing in hostage situations. We met our main characters, former partners Celida and Tuck, in the previous installment and are now getting more of their story.
For two years they’d worked together, trusting each other with their lives. That bond was still there, but faded now. Even still, he’d trust Celida to have his back in any situation.
Special Agent Celida Morales is suffering from PTSD and night terrors following the attack she failed to prevent when she was tasked to protect Rachel. Terrified that her co-workers will discover how much the incident is still affecting her and doubt her ability to do her job, she hides her insecurities as best she can. But Tuck won't let her bury her fears anymore, and she finds herself grateful to have someone to confide in. Even if it is the frustratingly sexy man who's been sending her mixed signals.
Assault team leader Brad Tucker is dealing with his own set of personal issues, on top of putting his all into his job. Losing his mom at a young age, his dad became his hero, and his rapidly declining health hasn't been easy for him. Despite everything, he still tries his best to be there for Celida, the woman he's always cared for.
She had the kind of curves that made his palms itch with the need to stroke them. In his fantasies she’d melt and purr under his touch. The reality was she was just as likely to deck him for trying.
Tuck and Celida were partners back in the day, and formed a strong bond of trust and loyalty. However, there has always been an underlying mutual attraction between them that both were reluctant to explore. Until now. After Celida has a few brushes with death, it's the push Tuck needs to lay it all on the line, even if he risks getting hurt in the process
His lips stroked over the corner of her mouth. “I want you to wait for it, fantasize about it tonight after I’m gone. I’ll make it worth the wait.”
Something flipped low in her belly at the promise in that low, sexy drawl. But she already had years of fantasies stored up about the man.
I gotta be honest, this couple just didn't do it for me. I much preferred Jake and Rachel in Marked. There was nothing really wrong with Tuck and Celida, I just had trouble connecting with them as characters. I can't really pinpoint why. They had some aspects to their relationship I liked though; I love the friends-to-lovers trope, I thought it was super sweet how Celida spent time with his dad at the nursing home, and I loved how protective and caring Tuck was with her.
Celida's attitude regarding her PTSD bothered me a little. I felt bad for her, I really did, but I also thought she was being naive not seeking help. In her line of work, this is not something you can leave unchecked. It can creep up at the worst times and put her life and the lives of those around her in danger.
He’d already been in deep with her but now his heart went into freefall. It should have scared the shit out of him but suddenly he didn’t care about any of that. He only cared that this felt right. They felt right. And that was all that mattered.
Even though the start was a little slow and I wasn't too engaged at first, I was totally hooked during the second half. Once we hit the peak in the action and suspense portion of the book, the rest was really good! I found I enjoyed reading the scenes with the "villain" more than the main characters. That doesn't often happen with me. I'm a romantic at heart, so the romance is usually the highlight of a romantic suspense book. But in this case it was the opposite. I was shocked to find I was actually sympathizing with the bad guy. But that's just it, he's not really a bad guy. He's just a sad, broken man who did some horrible things out of grief. Antagonists with layers are so much more appealing to read about than the typical villain who's just evil through and through, and this one was done extremely well. I even shed a few tears over Ken's story.
So that coupled with the action during the second half immensely increased my enjoyment level. I felt the tension and anxiety of the situation as if I was there, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was nerve-wracking and exciting! So while I enjoyed the characters from the first book more, I definitely preferred the suspense plot of this one. It was excellent!
We got a glimpse of Clay and Zoe, the central couple of the next book, and I'm looking forward to reading their story. This is a quick, entertaining romantic suspense series and I'll definitely be continuing.
April 9, 2019
Bravo to Kaylea Cross for giving a little twist to the typical romantic suspense format. What I liked about this book is that the female character, Celida, was not a damsel in distress that needed rescuing from the male character, Tuck. Nope, she's perfectly capable of handling herself. And in this novel, she was the one resistant in having a relationship with Tuck. No matter how much she wanted to and knew how much he wanted to as well.
That's not to say that she didn't need and receive some help from Tuck. On her last case, she was overpowered by two suspects and that put a dent in her confidence in being an FBI agent. She suffered from some nightmares and felt like she had something to prove to her other -mainly male agents. Tuck reassured her that she had nothing to prove and she was a damn good again. Right on time too.
The suspense in this novel was that a former cop had lost his wife and young son in a botched hostage rescue attempt gone wrong and he blamed the HRT for his loss. After planting some bombs around DC, he released a manifesto alerting the FBI to who he was and what his main target was. He raided a bank, took hostages and planted bombs around the entire bank. His plan was to kill the HRT team that arrived to defuse the situation and die himself, hoping to reunite with his dead wife and son.
Long story short, Celida most definitely proved her worth as an FBI agent and when Tuck and his team found themselves trapped under the bank after some explosives went off, she realized how much she really did love him.
This story was high on both romance and suspense. I love reading these novels when I know everything will work out in the end but not knowing how while I'm reading it. I also love that even though you know everything will work out, the author doesn't pull out out of the story by making things unrealistic. Looking forward to book three.
That's not to say that she didn't need and receive some help from Tuck. On her last case, she was overpowered by two suspects and that put a dent in her confidence in being an FBI agent. She suffered from some nightmares and felt like she had something to prove to her other -mainly male agents. Tuck reassured her that she had nothing to prove and she was a damn good again. Right on time too.
The suspense in this novel was that a former cop had lost his wife and young son in a botched hostage rescue attempt gone wrong and he blamed the HRT for his loss. After planting some bombs around DC, he released a manifesto alerting the FBI to who he was and what his main target was. He raided a bank, took hostages and planted bombs around the entire bank. His plan was to kill the HRT team that arrived to defuse the situation and die himself, hoping to reunite with his dead wife and son.
Long story short, Celida most definitely proved her worth as an FBI agent and when Tuck and his team found themselves trapped under the bank after some explosives went off, she realized how much she really did love him.
This story was high on both romance and suspense. I love reading these novels when I know everything will work out in the end but not knowing how while I'm reading it. I also love that even though you know everything will work out, the author doesn't pull out out of the story by making things unrealistic. Looking forward to book three.
Read
June 24, 2021Raw and emotional story that for me hit home on some levels as I'm sure it will for many readers. Both characters dealing with serious issues not just for work, they felt real. While on the other side of things they are dealing with someone unhinged due to grief and determined to get justice for something he felt others were to blame for. I understood his reasoning to a point but then why was what he was doing any different, at the end of the day those he was hurting also had families. I love the teams and how they all work together, the support the characters give each other. This is exciting and suspenseful, full of drama and action. Loved it. Started 22/6/21 finished 24/6/21
October 2, 2018
3.5 Stars rounded up. Targeted is the second book in the Hostage Rescue Team Series and I enjoyed it more than I did the first book. I liked both Celida and Tuck and thought the character development and relationship development was better in this book. There was a nice backstory between the two of them and some great secondary characters. This book also had an intense action scene and a decent suspense plot. If I'm being honest Bauer and Zoe kind of stole the show for me and I loved their scenes together so I'm very much looking forward to the next book.
August 8, 2020
although Celida is a FBI agent, I expect more of her.
Brad is the team leader of the HRT, his job requires his full attention but so many things happen in his life at the same time. His father's illness, his job, his training and there's Celida. They do have feelings for each other but Celida is kinda never let someone in for a long term.
what I like the most from this couple is that Celida always be there for Tuck in the most difficult times of his life.
I'm not used to read from the bad guy/perpetrator POV. so it's a new thing
Brad is the team leader of the HRT, his job requires his full attention but so many things happen in his life at the same time. His father's illness, his job, his training and there's Celida. They do have feelings for each other but Celida is kinda never let someone in for a long term.
what I like the most from this couple is that Celida always be there for Tuck in the most difficult times of his life.
I'm not used to read from the bad guy/perpetrator POV. so it's a new thing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2018
Tuck and Celida are former partners. There was always a sexual attraction between them, but they never acted upon it because of there job. Now a hostage situation has them working together again and the attraction between them is still there. Now Tuck can pursue her like he's always wanted to, but will it be too late. When disaster strikes, will they get a chance to voice their love for each other? This story is full of action and suspense.
July 27, 2019
It was quite a tedious read for me. Despite the hero and heroine being interesting characters, I still could not get myself to finish it at a quick. I felt the action parts did not come full circle, it didn't have enough teeth to make you chew nails, .
Meanwhile, this book greatly teased us to Clay and Zoe's story. Now that's what I look forward to reading next!
Meanwhile, this book greatly teased us to Clay and Zoe's story. Now that's what I look forward to reading next!
August 23, 2023
Targeted
Wow! Great stories just keep coming! It seems to me that this author has written the perfect relationship and the perfect blend of action. Almost as though she has personally experienced the danger and conveyed it in great detail. This story is very exciting. I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed! Can't wait for the next book. I feel that I am reading myself blind because I can't put Ms. Cross's book down!
Wow! Great stories just keep coming! It seems to me that this author has written the perfect relationship and the perfect blend of action. Almost as though she has personally experienced the danger and conveyed it in great detail. This story is very exciting. I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed! Can't wait for the next book. I feel that I am reading myself blind because I can't put Ms. Cross's book down!
September 27, 2018
So happy I decided to give the second book a try. The first was good but I wanted a little more of the romance in this romantic suspense. The suspense was pretty good.
The second book stepped up in the romance department and had great suspense. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
The second book stepped up in the romance department and had great suspense. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
June 12, 2019
A very riveting novel that I could not put down by Kaylea Cross
A very well written book, Targeted, by Kaylea Cross. It was written by the author to provide just the room needed to develop the characters in the
Book. The lot had enough twists and turns to make the book hard to put down. An excellent book and subject for our time.
A very well written book, Targeted, by Kaylea Cross. It was written by the author to provide just the room needed to develop the characters in the
Book. The lot had enough twists and turns to make the book hard to put down. An excellent book and subject for our time.
June 29, 2019
Lida and Tuck's story was emotional because of Tuck's responsibilities. Lida is dealing with PTSD and her never ending attraction to her ex-partner. Right now she can't deal with his hot and cold vibes.
With someone setting off bombs in the city, danger is lurking.
There were some grammatical errors.
With someone setting off bombs in the city, danger is lurking.
There were some grammatical errors.
August 23, 2023
I've wanted to continue this series for a long time. When I needed a book with a man with no shirt, it came to mind.
I liked this ok, but I didn't connect well with the main characters. The criminal plot was suspenseful but not all that well handled. The investigation overall didn't seem very well detailed or smart.
Library Love Bingo #18
I liked this ok, but I didn't connect well with the main characters. The criminal plot was suspenseful but not all that well handled. The investigation overall didn't seem very well detailed or smart.
Library Love Bingo #18
August 29, 2023
Whew. That was a tough one
Celida and Tuck had been partners when they joined the FBI. They both felt a strong attraction to each other but could not act on it. Once he joined the HRT they were afraid to admit their feelings. They are trying to find their way to each other when a domestic terrorist causes death and destruction. Love Zoe by the way!!!!
Celida and Tuck had been partners when they joined the FBI. They both felt a strong attraction to each other but could not act on it. Once he joined the HRT they were afraid to admit their feelings. They are trying to find their way to each other when a domestic terrorist causes death and destruction. Love Zoe by the way!!!!
November 25, 2023
Excellent writing; I do like this author; she delivers. Well-rounded and balanced story with good characters, adults dealing with trauma, PTSD, Tuck's dad with Alzheimer's. Good tense plot and action, page-turner for me. Strong romance although took 2 years for these 2 to finally get together. She writes believable and good love scenes.
December 16, 2025
Tuck and Celida
Partners who become more. Tuck and Celida both have feelings for each other and now that they are no longer work partners, the path is clear.
They face a harrowing situation when a former military guy decides he’s going to bomb a bank in revenge for losing his wife and son. Crazy scary time trying to rescue everyone from a potential deadly situation.
Partners who become more. Tuck and Celida both have feelings for each other and now that they are no longer work partners, the path is clear.
They face a harrowing situation when a former military guy decides he’s going to bomb a bank in revenge for losing his wife and son. Crazy scary time trying to rescue everyone from a potential deadly situation.
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