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Omega Sector: Under Siege #1
Defender
From Bestselling author Janie Crouch’s Omega Under Siege series, He was a man on a mission, one that included a beautiful woman and a little girl he'd die defending...
What a serious case of mistaken identity. Ashton Fitzgerald is no unassuming handyman but a highly- trained sharpshooter intent on protecting Summer Worrall and her baby daughter. The Omega SWAT member has a debt to pay and he isn't about to let Summer out of his sights. For someone else has set their own sights on the lovely widow. Her unexpected relationship with Ashton has put Summer and her child straight into a madman’s line of fire. Suddenly a mission to make amends becomes Ashton’s quest to defend this little family with his very life.
Omega Under Siege Defender Protector’s Instinct Cease Fire Major Crimes Armed Response In the Lawman’s ProtectionPreviously published as Daddy Defender
What a serious case of mistaken identity. Ashton Fitzgerald is no unassuming handyman but a highly- trained sharpshooter intent on protecting Summer Worrall and her baby daughter. The Omega SWAT member has a debt to pay and he isn't about to let Summer out of his sights. For someone else has set their own sights on the lovely widow. Her unexpected relationship with Ashton has put Summer and her child straight into a madman’s line of fire. Suddenly a mission to make amends becomes Ashton’s quest to defend this little family with his very life.
Omega Under Siege Defender Protector’s Instinct Cease Fire Major Crimes Armed Response In the Lawman’s ProtectionPreviously published as Daddy Defender
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2017
461 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
About the author
Janie Crouch
286 books2,035 followersUSA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 17, 2017
I enjoyed reading the first book of this new series. 5/5 Stars.
Ashton and Summer had great chemistry. I liked the storyline and how everything thing played out in the end. Summers young daughter Chole was adorable. Chole was so cute when she was with Ashton. Daddy Defender was a sweet story and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
** ARC provided by NetGalley.
Ashton and Summer had great chemistry. I liked the storyline and how everything thing played out in the end. Summers young daughter Chole was adorable. Chole was so cute when she was with Ashton. Daddy Defender was a sweet story and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
** ARC provided by NetGalley.
November 3, 2018
The Omega Sector is being targeted by Damien Friehof, who blames them for the death of his wife. Now he wants them all to hurt the way he hurts! He recruits another person, Curtis Harper, who blames Omega Sector for the death of his father, as well as a traitor within Omega itself. Damien wants to kill Summer Worrall, the young single mother that Ashton Fitzgerald is falling in love with, so that Ashton can experience the pain Damien did. Similarly, Curtis wants to kill Ashton, as he is the sharpshooter who killed his dad.
Despite that terrible title (Daddy Defender? Really) this is an entertaining, fast-paced romantic thriller. Granted, a poke in the eyes would probably get four stars from me after reading the abominable Reluctant Hero, but this had a really good handling on the suspense and action. Summer and Ashton were likable, engaging main characters, although Ashton hovered uncomfortably close to martyrdom on many an occasion. He feels guilty that he didn't shoot a madman when he had a chance before he killed a bunch of hostages that included Summer's husband.
As is the problem with all of Janie Crouch's books, there are too many characters running around. All of her books centre around Omega Sector, and she seems to feel the need to bring in as many previous characters as she can, and give us a brief rundown of their histories. It's not necessary, and I just start getting confused. Jon, Brandon, Steve, Liam, Joe and Lillian from previous books all pop up, along with several other agents we are to assume are going to get books of their own soon. Crouch really needs to narrow the focus!
There are six books in this mini-series, and history has taught me VERY well that the quality begins to decline in later books as the author is forced to churn them out to meet a deadline. However, a decent romance between Ashton and Summer, along with a very exciting plot (if not full of much actual intrigue), meant I really enjoyed this. And at least if the first book gets 4 stars, I'm hopeful the next glut at least hover around 3!
Despite that terrible title (Daddy Defender? Really) this is an entertaining, fast-paced romantic thriller. Granted, a poke in the eyes would probably get four stars from me after reading the abominable Reluctant Hero, but this had a really good handling on the suspense and action. Summer and Ashton were likable, engaging main characters, although Ashton hovered uncomfortably close to martyrdom on many an occasion. He feels guilty that he didn't shoot a madman when he had a chance before he killed a bunch of hostages that included Summer's husband.
As is the problem with all of Janie Crouch's books, there are too many characters running around. All of her books centre around Omega Sector, and she seems to feel the need to bring in as many previous characters as she can, and give us a brief rundown of their histories. It's not necessary, and I just start getting confused. Jon, Brandon, Steve, Liam, Joe and Lillian from previous books all pop up, along with several other agents we are to assume are going to get books of their own soon. Crouch really needs to narrow the focus!
There are six books in this mini-series, and history has taught me VERY well that the quality begins to decline in later books as the author is forced to churn them out to meet a deadline. However, a decent romance between Ashton and Summer, along with a very exciting plot (if not full of much actual intrigue), meant I really enjoyed this. And at least if the first book gets 4 stars, I'm hopeful the next glut at least hover around 3!
July 3, 2018
Good mix of suspense and romance. Two years earlier, Summer's husband Tyler, a member of the Omega team, was killed during a hostage crisis. Since then, Summer has been raising her daughter and moving on with her life as best she can. She rents her apartment from the head of the team and calls on the attractive but shy maintenance man when she needs help.
Except the maintenance man isn't who he appears to be. In an amusing case of mistaken identity, Ashton had taken care of the first repair himself, after his coworker asked him to find someone to do the repair. Now Ashton is firmly planted in Summer's mind as that, and he hasn't been able to find a way to tell her the truth. He's fallen hard for Summer and doesn't want to lose those chances to see her. His coworkers at Omega know how he feels and tease him constantly. They also tell him he'd better tell her the truth soon before she finds out on her own.
I loved the relationship between Summer and Ashton. He is adorably tongue-tied around her, not shy, but afraid of saying the wrong thing and giving himself away. Ashton is haunted by what he sees as his fault in the circumstances of Tyler's death and doesn't know how to tell Summer about it. Summer is attracted to Ashton, both for himself and for the way he and her daughter have bonded. She has come up with multiple reasons to call the "maintenance man" so that she can see him. It was fun to see Summer take the initiative to go after what she wanted, and Ashton's realization that he's out of time to come clean. Luck being what it is, Summer ends up finding out the truth before he can do so. Her shock is understandable, and I loved the conversation when they were finally able to talk about it. I loved Summer's reaction once she has all the facts and has had a chance to process them. I ached a bit for Ashton, who was tied up in knots over what he thinks she'll do. I loved seeing them deal with this issue and how it brought them closer together. The ending was really sweet and I loved his "proposal."
The suspense of the story is great. Someone has it in for the people at Omega and is intent on making them pay via the people they love. In this case, Ashton is the target and Summer and Chloe are the vehicle. It was interesting to see how the one bad guy delights in pulling the strings of the others, making them believe they are partners. This includes "Fawkes" who has his own agenda. I loved the teamwork of the Omega folks and how each has an integral part in the investigation. The intensity continued to build with each attack as they race to figure out who is behind them. The final confrontation was riveting, but even more so was the aftermath. The "wall of clues" put together by the bad guy as his way of taunting the Omega team was scary in its complexity. It will be fascinating to see how the rest of the series goes.
Except the maintenance man isn't who he appears to be. In an amusing case of mistaken identity, Ashton had taken care of the first repair himself, after his coworker asked him to find someone to do the repair. Now Ashton is firmly planted in Summer's mind as that, and he hasn't been able to find a way to tell her the truth. He's fallen hard for Summer and doesn't want to lose those chances to see her. His coworkers at Omega know how he feels and tease him constantly. They also tell him he'd better tell her the truth soon before she finds out on her own.
I loved the relationship between Summer and Ashton. He is adorably tongue-tied around her, not shy, but afraid of saying the wrong thing and giving himself away. Ashton is haunted by what he sees as his fault in the circumstances of Tyler's death and doesn't know how to tell Summer about it. Summer is attracted to Ashton, both for himself and for the way he and her daughter have bonded. She has come up with multiple reasons to call the "maintenance man" so that she can see him. It was fun to see Summer take the initiative to go after what she wanted, and Ashton's realization that he's out of time to come clean. Luck being what it is, Summer ends up finding out the truth before he can do so. Her shock is understandable, and I loved the conversation when they were finally able to talk about it. I loved Summer's reaction once she has all the facts and has had a chance to process them. I ached a bit for Ashton, who was tied up in knots over what he thinks she'll do. I loved seeing them deal with this issue and how it brought them closer together. The ending was really sweet and I loved his "proposal."
The suspense of the story is great. Someone has it in for the people at Omega and is intent on making them pay via the people they love. In this case, Ashton is the target and Summer and Chloe are the vehicle. It was interesting to see how the one bad guy delights in pulling the strings of the others, making them believe they are partners. This includes "Fawkes" who has his own agenda. I loved the teamwork of the Omega folks and how each has an integral part in the investigation. The intensity continued to build with each attack as they race to figure out who is behind them. The final confrontation was riveting, but even more so was the aftermath. The "wall of clues" put together by the bad guy as his way of taunting the Omega team was scary in its complexity. It will be fascinating to see how the rest of the series goes.
October 18, 2017
Two years ago, Summer's husband, Tyler, was killed during a hostage situation, leaving the soon-to-be-mother a widow. The years since have been a struggle, but she's moving forward with friends and her adorable daughter, Chloe. When her friend, landlord, and boss, Joe, a member of the Omega Sector, puts her in contact with someone in regards to repairs she needs at her condo, Summer, understandably so, assumes he's the handyman for Joe's businesses.
Ashton, a sniper and member of the Omega Sector SWAT team, knows he should've told Summer, as soon as he realized what she thought, who he was, but he didn't, and as time has passed, seven months to be exact, he knows the situation has gotten worse and telling her now is going to hurt both of them. He's enjoyed every second he's spent with the woman he's fallen for and her cute as can be daughter who adores her Ah-ta just as much.
But, when a case from Ashton's past comes looking for revenge, and Summer and Chloe are caught in the middle, Ashton not only realizes how truly important they are to him, as well as the future he wants with them, but also that he must tell her everything. Which means coming clean about his actual job, that he knows about Tyler, that they met before he played her handyman, and his part in the day her husband died.
Can Summer forgive Ashton for not being truthful from the beginning? Can she understand how one thing snowballed and he was unsure how to fix it? Can Ashton convince Summer how much she and Chloe mean to him? Can he keep his girls safe? What happens when Summer hears Ashton's last confession? Will they be able to move past it? Or will Summer once again lose a man she loves? And Ashton the woman and daughter he already considered his?
One-click now and follow along as two people whose paths have crossed before, unbeknownst to one of them, connect and find a love that's meant to be.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Ashton, a sniper and member of the Omega Sector SWAT team, knows he should've told Summer, as soon as he realized what she thought, who he was, but he didn't, and as time has passed, seven months to be exact, he knows the situation has gotten worse and telling her now is going to hurt both of them. He's enjoyed every second he's spent with the woman he's fallen for and her cute as can be daughter who adores her Ah-ta just as much.
But, when a case from Ashton's past comes looking for revenge, and Summer and Chloe are caught in the middle, Ashton not only realizes how truly important they are to him, as well as the future he wants with them, but also that he must tell her everything. Which means coming clean about his actual job, that he knows about Tyler, that they met before he played her handyman, and his part in the day her husband died.
Can Summer forgive Ashton for not being truthful from the beginning? Can she understand how one thing snowballed and he was unsure how to fix it? Can Ashton convince Summer how much she and Chloe mean to him? Can he keep his girls safe? What happens when Summer hears Ashton's last confession? Will they be able to move past it? Or will Summer once again lose a man she loves? And Ashton the woman and daughter he already considered his?
One-click now and follow along as two people whose paths have crossed before, unbeknownst to one of them, connect and find a love that's meant to be.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
September 8, 2021
Daddy Defender was so much fun! Ashton had some serious explaining to do after his faux pas with Summer regarding his actual job, a situation that was awkwardly cute courtesy of Summer’s daughter, Chloe calling out her favorite handyman when Summer least expected to see him. And speaking of Chloe, she was adorably charming and stole the whatever scene she was present in with her gibberish and sunny disposition! And the SWAT team themselves was a great mix of camaraderie and support for Ashton and Summer’s woes with a crazy guy.
I love Janie Crouch’s books. There’s action, suspense and behind closed door romance, but I like the mental excercise my brain gets with the villains! Even when they’re obviously nutty, the villain’s motives do keep me guessing, lol.
I love Janie Crouch’s books. There’s action, suspense and behind closed door romance, but I like the mental excercise my brain gets with the villains! Even when they’re obviously nutty, the villain’s motives do keep me guessing, lol.
October 24, 2017
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
March 25, 2018
I enjoyed this romantic suspense with a good plot and lots of fast paced exciting action. I kind of liked overcoming the relationship misunderstanding. The daughter was so cute and the poor mother has had so much trauma in her life. I look forward to reading other books by this author. Widowed mother Summer thinks SWAT team member Ashton is just her handyman.
October 17, 2017
I have come to love Janie Crouch's romantic suspense books, so I snagged Daddy Defender right away. This is part of a new spin off series called Omega Sector: Critical Response. It ties into a few events from books in the original series, but you don't have to read them to enjoy Daddy Defender. Crouch gives a 'Cast of Characters' in the beginning that is very helpful.
The story itself isn't stunningly original in any way. Young widowed mother falls for a guy she thinks is the handy man but is really a secret agent in Omega Sector. Also, he is kind of, sort of, responsible for killing her husband. Yeah, that hasn't come up in conversation though.
The villain is a bit Dr. Evil-ish. He and his misfit band of revenge seekers think they are too smart to be caught. Their plans are not diabolical or even inventive. Friehof is obviously the most diabolical of them all and has a much grander plan that simply killing a single agent. I think that the book focused on him as the sole villain it would have felt more cohesive. Even keeping Curtis as a puppet would have worked. But adding 'Fawkes' as a mole in Omega was strange. And ultimately, never resolved.
Chloe, her daughter, is adorable! Kids in stories can be hit or miss for me, but Chloe is adorable. The dangerous events in the story keep the plot moving along. Even though you know the identity of the villain and the ultimate plan, there are still a few surprises that keep the book interesting.
With fade to black sex scenes, Daddy Defender is great for readers who want romance and action without...well the other kind of action ;)
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: secret identity, single mom, widow
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone within an interconnected series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker, Celebrating Love by Maryann Jordan, Taken by Cynthia Eden...then you will probably like Daddy Defender!
Daddy Defender
See full review on The Book Disciple
February 6, 2018
I loved this book! So far when looking for a good or excellent romance suspense i was never disappointed by this author.
This is kind of a spin off from the main serie " omega team" if we want but we get the same elements we adore. Military alpha men completely at their love interest service.
In this case we follow Ashton who put this saying into action as he accepts to be seen as the handy man by Summer...while he is in fact elite of the SWAT....He is in loves with her but thinks he has no right as he thinks himself guilty for her husband death as he couldn't save him leaving her alone with a baby girl...For him it's a way to stay near at first to check on her but as his feeling grew it's all what he is allowing himself to get.
Summer is attracted by Ashton and thus call him to repair all what is possible....she doesn't know how to let him know she is interested so she is hesitant but that was cute and her little girl is irresistible when she calls her a-ta^^
I loved to see how their relationship changed with all what was happening and Summer reaction to all of it is more than admirable. She think everyone sees her as a fragile thing but she has an inner strenght bigger than even what she gives herself credit for.
The investigation is perfectly written ( motive, rytmm) and we are on edge to see who get caught and how, while hoping the two main bad characters will pay sooner than than later. This one is a rollecaster of emotion too as there is what they thing to be several investigations going on and the team won't be unscathed ( really why him i loved that character!)but we definitively want more
This is kind of a spin off from the main serie " omega team" if we want but we get the same elements we adore. Military alpha men completely at their love interest service.
In this case we follow Ashton who put this saying into action as he accepts to be seen as the handy man by Summer...while he is in fact elite of the SWAT....He is in loves with her but thinks he has no right as he thinks himself guilty for her husband death as he couldn't save him leaving her alone with a baby girl...For him it's a way to stay near at first to check on her but as his feeling grew it's all what he is allowing himself to get.
Summer is attracted by Ashton and thus call him to repair all what is possible....she doesn't know how to let him know she is interested so she is hesitant but that was cute and her little girl is irresistible when she calls her a-ta^^
I loved to see how their relationship changed with all what was happening and Summer reaction to all of it is more than admirable. She think everyone sees her as a fragile thing but she has an inner strenght bigger than even what she gives herself credit for.
The investigation is perfectly written ( motive, rytmm) and we are on edge to see who get caught and how, while hoping the two main bad characters will pay sooner than than later. This one is a rollecaster of emotion too as there is what they thing to be several investigations going on and the team won't be unscathed ( really why him i loved that character!)but we definitively want more
October 1, 2017
This is the 4th book of Ms Crouch’s that I have read, and am totally hooked.
Daddy Defender is a spinoff of the author’s Omega Sector.
This one centers around Ashton Fitzgerald, a sharpshooter for the Omega Sector, and Summer Worrall. Summer’s husband was killed during a hostage situation involving Ashton and his team. He feels responsible for her husband’s death.
It was sweet the way Summer thought he was a handyman instead of a law enforcement agent. Chole, Summer’s baby is adorable and totally taken by Ashton.
Summer finds out who he really is during a hostage situation she witnessed. Needless to say, she was hurt .
Life gets complicated when someone decides to take revenge against the Omega Sector, and Summer and Chole become targets by association.
The plot and characters were well developed , ad interesting. The story was full of suspense, a psychopath full of revenge, an alpha male with a soft spot for a little girl and her Mom , and romance. Though it definitely is NOT a cliffhanger, the mystery will continue in the next book, and I am looking forward to finding out what the author has in store for us.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Daddy Defender is a spinoff of the author’s Omega Sector.
This one centers around Ashton Fitzgerald, a sharpshooter for the Omega Sector, and Summer Worrall. Summer’s husband was killed during a hostage situation involving Ashton and his team. He feels responsible for her husband’s death.
It was sweet the way Summer thought he was a handyman instead of a law enforcement agent. Chole, Summer’s baby is adorable and totally taken by Ashton.
Summer finds out who he really is during a hostage situation she witnessed. Needless to say, she was hurt .
Life gets complicated when someone decides to take revenge against the Omega Sector, and Summer and Chole become targets by association.
The plot and characters were well developed , ad interesting. The story was full of suspense, a psychopath full of revenge, an alpha male with a soft spot for a little girl and her Mom , and romance. Though it definitely is NOT a cliffhanger, the mystery will continue in the next book, and I am looking forward to finding out what the author has in store for us.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 15, 2019
This was a fun book to read with romance, action and suspense. Summer thought Ashton was the handy man for her apartment complex. She never broke anything on purpose, but she did find reasons to call him over often. Ashton didn’t know how to tell her that he was a highly trained swat agent. His team members gave him a hard time. I think he fell in love with Summer, and her cute daughter the first time he laid eyes on them.
Someone is going after Ashton’s swat team, and Summer. I loved how close the team members were and how they all stepped up to protect Summer. I also loved the relationship between Summer and Ashton. The little girl would call him Ah-ta, and many times saw him before her mother did, and would always want to go to him. She melted my heart. I loved this book!
Someone is going after Ashton’s swat team, and Summer. I loved how close the team members were and how they all stepped up to protect Summer. I also loved the relationship between Summer and Ashton. The little girl would call him Ah-ta, and many times saw him before her mother did, and would always want to go to him. She melted my heart. I loved this book!
October 10, 2018
Definite must read!
Oh my Ashton I do believe you have stolen my heart and exploded my ovaries! I loved the banter and chemistry between Ashton and Summer but the love Ashton shows for Summer's daughter was even better. Throw in a revenge seeking psychopath and I was hooked. Definitely a must read!
Oh my Ashton I do believe you have stolen my heart and exploded my ovaries! I loved the banter and chemistry between Ashton and Summer but the love Ashton shows for Summer's daughter was even better. Throw in a revenge seeking psychopath and I was hooked. Definitely a must read!
November 24, 2017
Loved it.
January 27, 2019
Daddy Defender is another great romantic suspense story by Janie Crouch! The story starts off on a more humorous note with Summer, who is a widow with 19-month old Chloe, mistaking Ashton, who is the Omega SWAT team sharpshooter, as a shy, bumbling handyman. Unfortunately its been months and Ashton still has not told her the truth. He has actually fallen for her, but he has secrets, not just regarding his real job, but the guilt he feels for not saving her husband, Tyler, on that fateful day. At the same time Summer also feels the attraction and it doesn’t help watching him with Chloe, who adores him. The scenes between Ashton and Chloe is so sweet! Ashton knows he needs to tell Summer the truth, unfortunately, his chance is taken away from him when Chloe recognizes him during a botched hostage situation. Once all was explained, things started looking up for them both, but did not last too long. There was someone out to get the Omega team and using Summer and Chloe to get to them.
I enjoyed this book so much. I was so happy with the way Summer handled Aston’s secrets. Ashton held so much guilt with what happened with Summer’s husband, but her response was perfect. And even though there is not a lot of the sexy scenes I am used to in a Janie Crouch book, it did not take away the chemistry these two have. The suspense portion definitely kept me on my toes. Overall an excellent story and looking forward to what happens next.
I enjoyed this book so much. I was so happy with the way Summer handled Aston’s secrets. Ashton held so much guilt with what happened with Summer’s husband, but her response was perfect. And even though there is not a lot of the sexy scenes I am used to in a Janie Crouch book, it did not take away the chemistry these two have. The suspense portion definitely kept me on my toes. Overall an excellent story and looking forward to what happens next.
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December 30, 2025This was a cute little story to read. I love reading these Harlequin novels every now and then. They are good to read whenever you just want things to slow down for a bit. Overall this was a very good read.
February 19, 2018
I loved this book. Loved loved loved it. Two years previously, when Summer was six months pregnant with daughter Chloe, her husband Tyler was killed in a hostage situation gone wrong. The Omega Sector SWAT team on site that fateful day included Ashton Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Fitzy to his teammates. He had a chance to take out the bad guy that day, but stuck to his orders and waited for the negotiator to talk the bad guy down. Alas, bad guy had a grenade and killed several people, including Tyler Worrall.
Ashton feels incredibly guilty about not saving him that day. When Ashton is asked by a colleague to organise a handyman to fix something in Summer’s condo (which belongs to said colleague, Joe) he decides to take care of it himself. Summer then believes him to be the maintenance man for the property, and the more time that passes, the harder it becomes for Ashton to tell Summer who he really is. And what makes it worse is that he’s attracted to her, and Chloe adores him, calling him Ah-ta.
Summer starts to find reasons to call Ashton to her place and, thinking he’s shy, makes the first move, kissing him (which I loved!). She invites him into her bedroom, and while he wants nothing more than to go, he refuses until he tells her the truth about who he really is. All the while, his teammates have been teasing him about being in the friend zone, which makes for amusing scenes. I also got vibes between two of his teammates, Roman and Lillian – I wonder if they get a book of their own?
Summer does eventually find out who Ashton really is when she stumbles upon him and his team at a potential hostage situation. In the meantime, someone is targeting Ashton and his team, someone out for revenge with a partner or two. Summer is just collateral damage. Ashton will do whatever he can to protect Summer and Chloe, to whom he’s rapidly become attached to.
Summer finds out the entire truth, about Ashton being there the day her husband died and how he could have made the shot. I thought it was very nicely handled; Ashton’s biggest fear is that Summer would blame him for Tyler’s death – and she didn’t. Their relationship was handled nicely and I adored them both. My only complaint, if I could call it that, is that there was no actual sex scene between Ashton and Summer – the author chose to leave it to the reader’s imagination. Wah! You should definitely read this book.
And seriously, how freaking adorable is that cover?
Ashton feels incredibly guilty about not saving him that day. When Ashton is asked by a colleague to organise a handyman to fix something in Summer’s condo (which belongs to said colleague, Joe) he decides to take care of it himself. Summer then believes him to be the maintenance man for the property, and the more time that passes, the harder it becomes for Ashton to tell Summer who he really is. And what makes it worse is that he’s attracted to her, and Chloe adores him, calling him Ah-ta.
Summer starts to find reasons to call Ashton to her place and, thinking he’s shy, makes the first move, kissing him (which I loved!). She invites him into her bedroom, and while he wants nothing more than to go, he refuses until he tells her the truth about who he really is. All the while, his teammates have been teasing him about being in the friend zone, which makes for amusing scenes. I also got vibes between two of his teammates, Roman and Lillian – I wonder if they get a book of their own?
Summer does eventually find out who Ashton really is when she stumbles upon him and his team at a potential hostage situation. In the meantime, someone is targeting Ashton and his team, someone out for revenge with a partner or two. Summer is just collateral damage. Ashton will do whatever he can to protect Summer and Chloe, to whom he’s rapidly become attached to.
Summer finds out the entire truth, about Ashton being there the day her husband died and how he could have made the shot. I thought it was very nicely handled; Ashton’s biggest fear is that Summer would blame him for Tyler’s death – and she didn’t. Their relationship was handled nicely and I adored them both. My only complaint, if I could call it that, is that there was no actual sex scene between Ashton and Summer – the author chose to leave it to the reader’s imagination. Wah! You should definitely read this book.
And seriously, how freaking adorable is that cover?
October 31, 2017
They say don't judge the book by its cover, but OH MY GOODNESS, if this is not the best cover ever! And the book does deliver what the cover promises. Daddy Defender is filled with riveting, knuckle-biting suspense and action intertwined with adorable, sweet, and swoon-worthy scenes.
Ashton Fitzgerald is fun, kind, protective, and good with his hands. His growing feelings towards Summer Worrall and her cute little daughter are a well-known secret within Omega. Yet the convoluted history between Ashton's job and Summer's past keeps him from being open and honest with her, keeping the walls in place between them and their feelings towards each other hidden. Because Ashton has brought Summer's feelings to the surface again, emotions that have been deeply buried since her husband was killed.
The connection and chemistry between Ashton and Summer are obvious and palpable, as is the connection Ashton has to Summer's daughter. These three form an inseparable unit, that nothing can destroy, no matter how much they try.
The whole cast of characters are charming, likable, and attractive, the kind of people you want to hang out with, to get to know better. I found them entertaining and enjoyable, wishing there would have been a bit more insight to Ashton and Summer's personalities, as they were fumbling with their emotions and future possibilities. Maybe I just couldn't get enough of them...
The continues threat and deadly force attacks towards the Omega team, Ashton, and Summer keeps the strain and stress high, gripping the attention and escalating the terror and angst. It is obvious the culprits do not care if there is collateral damage, as long as they manage to cripple the Omega, and ultimately destroy it because revenge is the game they like to play.
Even though the story is brought to a satisfying conclusion, there is a sort of a cliffhanger, as the mastermind behind the desire to end the existence of Omega Sector is still at large, and the story will - apparently - continue through the series.
A mesmerizing and sharp story with vivid images, dynamic characters, and powerful suspense and action combined with dreamy, lovely, and delectable romance and the cutest little girl with her hero in the middle of the battle...
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Ashton Fitzgerald is fun, kind, protective, and good with his hands. His growing feelings towards Summer Worrall and her cute little daughter are a well-known secret within Omega. Yet the convoluted history between Ashton's job and Summer's past keeps him from being open and honest with her, keeping the walls in place between them and their feelings towards each other hidden. Because Ashton has brought Summer's feelings to the surface again, emotions that have been deeply buried since her husband was killed.
The connection and chemistry between Ashton and Summer are obvious and palpable, as is the connection Ashton has to Summer's daughter. These three form an inseparable unit, that nothing can destroy, no matter how much they try.
The whole cast of characters are charming, likable, and attractive, the kind of people you want to hang out with, to get to know better. I found them entertaining and enjoyable, wishing there would have been a bit more insight to Ashton and Summer's personalities, as they were fumbling with their emotions and future possibilities. Maybe I just couldn't get enough of them...
The continues threat and deadly force attacks towards the Omega team, Ashton, and Summer keeps the strain and stress high, gripping the attention and escalating the terror and angst. It is obvious the culprits do not care if there is collateral damage, as long as they manage to cripple the Omega, and ultimately destroy it because revenge is the game they like to play.
Even though the story is brought to a satisfying conclusion, there is a sort of a cliffhanger, as the mastermind behind the desire to end the existence of Omega Sector is still at large, and the story will - apparently - continue through the series.
A mesmerizing and sharp story with vivid images, dynamic characters, and powerful suspense and action combined with dreamy, lovely, and delectable romance and the cutest little girl with her hero in the middle of the battle...
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
June 27, 2018
When Summer called her friend and landlord, Joe, about a problem she had in her condo, he asked Ashton to look into it for him. When Ashton checked it out, he realized he could make the repair. So instead of calling someone in to take care of it, he handled it himself. Because of this Summer thought he was the condo handyman but he was actually a member of the Omega Sector SWAT team. She really liked him and wanted to see him again so kept calling him to fix things for her. The longer the mistaken identity went on, the harder it was for Ashton to confess. The matter was taken out of his hands when Summer’s young daughter, Chloe, shouted out to him when he was on a job for Omega and in full SWAT gear. Summer was not happy about the lies. But things got worse. Someone decided to take revenge against the Omega Sector, and Summer and Chloe were caught in it.
I loved this romantic suspense. There were so many things that had me tense, waiting for answers. Who and why did somebody want revenge on Omega Sector? Ashton had always felt responsible for Summer’s husband’s death. Was he ever going to confess this to her? I liked the way the romance between Ashton and Summer built as the story progressed. There were issued that could end it before it even started.
The characters were terrific. Even though Ashton was extremely good at his job as a sharpshooter for Omega, he wasn’t very confident in his personal life. Summer is a strong, capable woman and a wonderful mother. Her daughter, Chloe, is the cutest little girl. I loved how she took to Ashton and how great he was with her. There is a REALLY bad, insane villain. And I loved how capable the SWAT team was. They always had each other’s back.
Obviously, I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The cover alone will make you want to get it.
I loved this romantic suspense. There were so many things that had me tense, waiting for answers. Who and why did somebody want revenge on Omega Sector? Ashton had always felt responsible for Summer’s husband’s death. Was he ever going to confess this to her? I liked the way the romance between Ashton and Summer built as the story progressed. There were issued that could end it before it even started.
The characters were terrific. Even though Ashton was extremely good at his job as a sharpshooter for Omega, he wasn’t very confident in his personal life. Summer is a strong, capable woman and a wonderful mother. Her daughter, Chloe, is the cutest little girl. I loved how she took to Ashton and how great he was with her. There is a REALLY bad, insane villain. And I loved how capable the SWAT team was. They always had each other’s back.
Obviously, I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The cover alone will make you want to get it.
October 19, 2017
4 1/2 STARS!
Unexpected terror brings danger to the the fore front of the team's mind when they least expect it! With the kick-off of her new Omega Sector: Under Siege series, Janie Crouch brings us many familiar faces from her beloved Omega Sector Critical Response team! These books are always fast paced and high energy and this one does not disappoint. Add in an adorable little girl and a hint of romance brewing and it makes for a great read! I'm looking forward to the next in the series!
Widow Summer Worrall and her baby girl Chloe both have a crush on the guy that takes care of things around their house. Mistaking him as the handyman when he did a favor for her landlord, Summer continues to call Ashton with anything she can find wrong around the house ... she isn't really that picky, but she really enjoys seeing the sexy, shy guy!
Omega sharpshooter Ashton Fitzgerald doesn't know how to tell Summer who he really is, so he's sort of just quietly played along and helped her out. When danger follows him to her door, it's time to get down to the truth and find a way to get the target off of her and her baby girl. When she finds out the past they share, will she still be attracted to him and want that date he promised her??
Unexpected terror brings danger to the the fore front of the team's mind when they least expect it! With the kick-off of her new Omega Sector: Under Siege series, Janie Crouch brings us many familiar faces from her beloved Omega Sector Critical Response team! These books are always fast paced and high energy and this one does not disappoint. Add in an adorable little girl and a hint of romance brewing and it makes for a great read! I'm looking forward to the next in the series!
Widow Summer Worrall and her baby girl Chloe both have a crush on the guy that takes care of things around their house. Mistaking him as the handyman when he did a favor for her landlord, Summer continues to call Ashton with anything she can find wrong around the house ... she isn't really that picky, but she really enjoys seeing the sexy, shy guy!
Omega sharpshooter Ashton Fitzgerald doesn't know how to tell Summer who he really is, so he's sort of just quietly played along and helped her out. When danger follows him to her door, it's time to get down to the truth and find a way to get the target off of her and her baby girl. When she finds out the past they share, will she still be attracted to him and want that date he promised her??
October 8, 2017
Daddy Defender is the first book in the Omega Sector: Under Siege mini series by Janie Crouch. This series is a spin off from the original Omega Sector series. Janie Crouch did a fabulous job with this one. It's action packed from the first few minutes all the way through the end. This story focuses on Ashton a sharp shooter for Omega and Summer whom has multiple connections to Omega.
Ashton felt strongly for Summer the first time her met her. Then her sweet little Angel of a daughter Chloe swept him off his feet. Yet before he can ever have a relationship with her he must tell her the secrets he has been keeping from her.
Chloe has the hotts for her maintenance man of her condo complex but he seems to have a problem even looking her in the eye. He gets along with her daughter perfectly though. Maybe she can get his attention if things around the condo keep breaking or strange things keep happening.
Daddy Defender held me by the seat of my pants from the beginning. I loved it. I couldn't put it down nor did I want to. I can't wait to continue reading more of this awesome series by Janie Crouch.
Ashton felt strongly for Summer the first time her met her. Then her sweet little Angel of a daughter Chloe swept him off his feet. Yet before he can ever have a relationship with her he must tell her the secrets he has been keeping from her.
Chloe has the hotts for her maintenance man of her condo complex but he seems to have a problem even looking her in the eye. He gets along with her daughter perfectly though. Maybe she can get his attention if things around the condo keep breaking or strange things keep happening.
Daddy Defender held me by the seat of my pants from the beginning. I loved it. I couldn't put it down nor did I want to. I can't wait to continue reading more of this awesome series by Janie Crouch.
November 28, 2017
This was a great start to a new series in the Omega Sector series. I loved Summer's character in Overwhelming Force. She did deserve her own book and her own happily ever after. Ashton is a great man that has interest in Summer but he hasn't told her who he really is. She believes that he is the maintenance guy in her condo complex and when she finds out the truth I don't blame her for her reaction. Ashton knows that he needs to tell her the truth of who he is but every time he gets ready to tell her something happens. So when the call comes in and SWAT gets called he didn't think he would run into her or should I say she ran into him and walk away she did. Then trouble starts and Ashton will have to keep her safe because someone is trying to kill him and they are going after Summer and Chloe to get to him.
Daddy Defender was a great read. I loved the storyline it was enthralling. I loved the suspense and I can't wait to read the next book in this series since the bad guy(s) are still out there. The chemistry between Ashton and Summer is sensual.
I totally recommend this book.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
Daddy Defender was a great read. I loved the storyline it was enthralling. I loved the suspense and I can't wait to read the next book in this series since the bad guy(s) are still out there. The chemistry between Ashton and Summer is sensual.
I totally recommend this book.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
December 7, 2020
This is the fist book of this series. It is a spin-off/continuation of the Omega Sector Series. I haven’t read any of those books and wasn’t really confused. I do however look forward to reading them. Ashton is part of the Omega sector. Summer is the widow of a man who died on one the scenes Omega Sector was called to. The whole crew knows her or about her. There is a bit of a case of mistaken identity between Summer and Ashton. She thinks he is a handy man for the building she lives in. Ashton doesn’t know how to come clean with her after so much time. Plus he is afraid that once she finds out what he really does for a living she won’t want anything to do with him. This book is a great read. There is romance, mystery, action, and so much more. There are people who want to take down the Omega sector and those close to them. Summer finds herself caught up in the mess of that. Ashton will do anything to make sure Summer and her daughter are safe. He just hopes that he can be part of their family as well. Janie you did an amazing job and I can’t wait to read more book in the series and the ones connected to it. I highly recommend this book.
October 23, 2017
Summer was using any excuse to see the handyman Ashton to help her out with random items that went wrong. Little does she know is that Ashton is actually a sharpshooter for the Omega Swat Team and after helping her that one time now he just doesnt have the heart to tell her that he's really apart of a swat team. After a few recent close calls Ashton will do everything in his power to keep Summer and her daughter safe.
Theres action, mystery, suspense and romance everything I love in a good intrigue novel. This book was no different and I really enjoyed it. I kept wondering who was behind it all and wondering what was up with his side of the story which is another addition that I loved about this book was the POV of not only the main characters but of the mystery killers as well. I loved seeing that connection between Ashton and Summer and it was sweet how Ashton was towards Summer's baby. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it. Curious to see what happens in the next book!
Theres action, mystery, suspense and romance everything I love in a good intrigue novel. This book was no different and I really enjoyed it. I kept wondering who was behind it all and wondering what was up with his side of the story which is another addition that I loved about this book was the POV of not only the main characters but of the mystery killers as well. I loved seeing that connection between Ashton and Summer and it was sweet how Ashton was towards Summer's baby. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it. Curious to see what happens in the next book!
June 20, 2025
3.5 Stars
Daddy Defender is the eleventh book in the Omega Sector Universe Series (Omega Sector: Under Siege Book #1) by Janie Crouch. I am reviewing The Omega Sector Universe series, which is made up of 16 engrossing reads and comprises of three connected series.
Omega Sector
Omega Sector: Critical Response
Omega Sector: Under Siege
This is a compelling collection of romantic suspense novels that blends high-stakes action with emotionally engaging storylines. The series focuses on a team of elite operatives who face dangerous missions while navigating complex personal relationships- resulting in a dynamic and immersive reading experience.
Each book in the series offers a unique storyline while maintaining a connection to the overarching universe. The characters are well-developed, with their personal struggles, highs and lows, adding depth to the storylines. The balance between suspenseful plot twists and heartfelt romance ensured an engaging read throughout.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Janie Crouch!
Daddy Defender is the eleventh book in the Omega Sector Universe Series (Omega Sector: Under Siege Book #1) by Janie Crouch. I am reviewing The Omega Sector Universe series, which is made up of 16 engrossing reads and comprises of three connected series.
Omega Sector
Omega Sector: Critical Response
Omega Sector: Under Siege
This is a compelling collection of romantic suspense novels that blends high-stakes action with emotionally engaging storylines. The series focuses on a team of elite operatives who face dangerous missions while navigating complex personal relationships- resulting in a dynamic and immersive reading experience.
Each book in the series offers a unique storyline while maintaining a connection to the overarching universe. The characters are well-developed, with their personal struggles, highs and lows, adding depth to the storylines. The balance between suspenseful plot twists and heartfelt romance ensured an engaging read throughout.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Janie Crouch!
October 15, 2017
Ashton is not who Summer thinks he is. Over several months, he has built a friendly relationship with Summer and her daughter, Chloe. His feelings of guilt over her husband's murder years ago have kept him from being completely honest with her. He plays handyman to her every need and waits for a chance to tell her the truth. Things get even more complicated when Summer ends up in danger and Ashton discovers he is likely the cause. No way is he going to let her or Chloe get hurt. An old enemy is out to get Ashton and has found a partner in a man with a grudge against Ashton's whole team.
This was a pretty sweet romance with a super cute baby girl and an alpha guy with a softy heart. Baby Chloe was definitely one of my favorite aspects of the story. There was enough consistency in the suspense to keep me interested and a couple good action scenes.
I received an ARC from Net Galley.
This was a pretty sweet romance with a super cute baby girl and an alpha guy with a softy heart. Baby Chloe was definitely one of my favorite aspects of the story. There was enough consistency in the suspense to keep me interested and a couple good action scenes.
I received an ARC from Net Galley.
October 27, 2017
Summer is a widow with an adorable toddler. Ashton is on an elite military team and has fallen for Summer and her daughter. He is keeping a big secret from her about her husband’s death and is afraid when she finds out she will turn away from him. Damien is the criminal who is out to hurt every member of the SWAT team by hurting their loved ones. Ashton will do everything in his power to protect Summer and Chloe when Damien starts to go after them.
This book has the suspense, excitement and romance you would want in a story. This was a page turner you do not want to miss. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the next book in the series. Janie Crouch is a new author for me and I have not been disappointed in any of her books and I’m sure you will enjoy every adventure also.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This book has the suspense, excitement and romance you would want in a story. This was a page turner you do not want to miss. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the next book in the series. Janie Crouch is a new author for me and I have not been disappointed in any of her books and I’m sure you will enjoy every adventure also.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 29, 2022
Great opening to Omega Series
I love reading Janie Crouch's series. Aston has fallen for the widow of one of his Omega Sector fellow operatives. Summer is ok with the shy handyman who comes to help her whenever she calls. She actually may call even when she is capable of fixing the problem herself. Suddenly her and her daughter Chloe lives are in danger and Aston is not the man she thought he was. Will what they've already shared be enough to get them through the machinations of an evil genius?
While each Omega Sector book is a stand alone story, there is an overlying arc through the series. This 1st book was intense, and I look forward to reading the next in the series. This is my honest review.
I love reading Janie Crouch's series. Aston has fallen for the widow of one of his Omega Sector fellow operatives. Summer is ok with the shy handyman who comes to help her whenever she calls. She actually may call even when she is capable of fixing the problem herself. Suddenly her and her daughter Chloe lives are in danger and Aston is not the man she thought he was. Will what they've already shared be enough to get them through the machinations of an evil genius?
While each Omega Sector book is a stand alone story, there is an overlying arc through the series. This 1st book was intense, and I look forward to reading the next in the series. This is my honest review.
June 14, 2024
A fantastic beginning to this series
This was an intense and intriguing story that will hook you from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the characters, fast paced action, the personal connections, as well as the adorable little miss that stole everyone's hearts! Lol! It's definitely a story and series that you won't want to miss!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
I hope that someday the previous Omega Sector series will be available in the Kindle Unlimited program. I truly appreciate the author for allowing this series to be a part of it. I am a huge fan of this talented author, and have loved all of her books (those that are available in KU). Thank you for sharing your amazing stories!
This was an intense and intriguing story that will hook you from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the characters, fast paced action, the personal connections, as well as the adorable little miss that stole everyone's hearts! Lol! It's definitely a story and series that you won't want to miss!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
I hope that someday the previous Omega Sector series will be available in the Kindle Unlimited program. I truly appreciate the author for allowing this series to be a part of it. I am a huge fan of this talented author, and have loved all of her books (those that are available in KU). Thank you for sharing your amazing stories!
December 30, 2018
New boyfriend
I just love reading Janie’s books. I am never disappointed. This book was a really quick read. Ashton and Summer make the cutest couple. He is a sharpshooter for Omega and Summer is the widow of a former Omega member. Summer thinks Ashton is her apartment buildings maintenance man. She falls for his sweet caring ways with her sweet baby girl. This is the first book in a series that is a great series. I actually read all the books in the series without reading the first one. No clue how that happened but I loved this book. Lots of action and great story line. Can be read as stand alone but you will want to read them all!
I just love reading Janie’s books. I am never disappointed. This book was a really quick read. Ashton and Summer make the cutest couple. He is a sharpshooter for Omega and Summer is the widow of a former Omega member. Summer thinks Ashton is her apartment buildings maintenance man. She falls for his sweet caring ways with her sweet baby girl. This is the first book in a series that is a great series. I actually read all the books in the series without reading the first one. No clue how that happened but I loved this book. Lots of action and great story line. Can be read as stand alone but you will want to read them all!
January 30, 2019
Fyi, no plot conclusion
It may have been obvious to everyone else but I didn't realize BEFORE i started that the main storyline doesn't get wrapped up so you will need to continue reading the rest of the series. It was obvious while I was reading it.
First Harlequin and first Intrigued book I've read. Lots of action, good characters, really enjoyed the book.
I personally like more heat in my romance but if you prefer not reading anything remotely hot then you will probably love this. I'm assuming the rest of the series is the same way. (I've read the author s other books outside of Harlequin and much more heat)
It may have been obvious to everyone else but I didn't realize BEFORE i started that the main storyline doesn't get wrapped up so you will need to continue reading the rest of the series. It was obvious while I was reading it.
First Harlequin and first Intrigued book I've read. Lots of action, good characters, really enjoyed the book.
I personally like more heat in my romance but if you prefer not reading anything remotely hot then you will probably love this. I'm assuming the rest of the series is the same way. (I've read the author s other books outside of Harlequin and much more heat)
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