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Hunted in Calusa Cove
In Calusa Cove, the past doesn’t drown. It hunts.
Bradford “Buddy” Ballard left the FBI to build a quieter life in Calusa Cove, working for the Aegis Network far from the chaos that nearly broke him. But peace is hard to hold onto when a Jane Doe turns up in the Everglades—her injuries too familiar, her story too close to the one that’s haunted him for the last few months. He tells himself it’s just another case. The truth is, it feels like the past has finally found him.
Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer, knows these waters better than anyone. Fourteen years after her best friend disappeared, the swamp still whispers questions she can’t answer. The discovery of the Jane Doe rips those old wounds wide open, and working beside Buddy—steady, complicated, impossible not to feel—makes it harder to keep her balance.
Heat, danger, and desire twist through every clue they uncover, pulling them closer to something they can’t name—and a threat that’s been waiting in the dark for both of them.
Bradford “Buddy” Ballard left the FBI to build a quieter life in Calusa Cove, working for the Aegis Network far from the chaos that nearly broke him. But peace is hard to hold onto when a Jane Doe turns up in the Everglades—her injuries too familiar, her story too close to the one that’s haunted him for the last few months. He tells himself it’s just another case. The truth is, it feels like the past has finally found him.
Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer, knows these waters better than anyone. Fourteen years after her best friend disappeared, the swamp still whispers questions she can’t answer. The discovery of the Jane Doe rips those old wounds wide open, and working beside Buddy—steady, complicated, impossible not to feel—makes it harder to keep her balance.
Heat, danger, and desire twist through every clue they uncover, pulling them closer to something they can’t name—and a threat that’s been waiting in the dark for both of them.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
57 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Jen Talty
230 books512 followersJen Talty is the USA Today Bestselling Author of Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. In the fall of 2020, her short story was selected and featured in a 1001 Dark Nights Anthology. She is currently contracted to write in the With Me in Seattle series by Kristen Proby with Lady Boss Press, as well as Susan Stoker’s Special Forces: Operation Alpha and Elle James’s Brotherhood Protectors.
Regardless of the genre, her goal is to take you on a ride that will leave you floating under the sun with warmth in your heart. She writes stories about broken heroes and heroines who aren’t necessarily looking for romance, but in the end, they find the kind of love books are written about :).
She first started writing while carting her kids to one hockey rink after the other, averaging 170 games per year between 3 kids in 2 countries and 5 states. Her first book, IN TWO WEEKS was originally published in 2007. In 2010 she helped form a publishing company (Cool Gus Publishing) with NY Times Bestselling Author Bob Mayer where she ran the technical side of the business through 2016.
Jen is currently enjoying the next phase of her life…the empty nester! She and her husband reside in Jupiter, Florida.
Grab a glass of vino, kick back, relax, and let the romance roll in…
Regardless of the genre, her goal is to take you on a ride that will leave you floating under the sun with warmth in your heart. She writes stories about broken heroes and heroines who aren’t necessarily looking for romance, but in the end, they find the kind of love books are written about :).
She first started writing while carting her kids to one hockey rink after the other, averaging 170 games per year between 3 kids in 2 countries and 5 states. Her first book, IN TWO WEEKS was originally published in 2007. In 2010 she helped form a publishing company (Cool Gus Publishing) with NY Times Bestselling Author Bob Mayer where she ran the technical side of the business through 2016.
Jen is currently enjoying the next phase of her life…the empty nester! She and her husband reside in Jupiter, Florida.
Grab a glass of vino, kick back, relax, and let the romance roll in…
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 17, 2026
Jen Talty’s Hunted in Calusa Cove is an electrifying start to The Aegis Network: The Everglades Division series. From the first line, “In Calusa Cove, the past doesn’t drown. It hunts.” you are plunged into a world of simmering heat, long-buried secrets, and relentless suspense. This is a romantic thriller that masterfully balances pulse-pounding action with deeply emotional stakes.
The pairing of former FBI agent Buddy Ballard and Fish and Wildlife officer Fallon Reeves is pure chemistry. Buddy is the perfect wounded hero, seeking refuge from a haunting past only to have it drag him back into the muck. Fallon is his ideal counterpart, resilient, deeply connected to the dangerous landscape, and driven by her own unsolved trauma. Their professional collaboration crackles with a tangible, complicated attraction that feels earned, not forced, heightening the tension on every page.
Talty’s greatest strength is her atmospheric setting. The Everglades are not just a backdrop; they are a living, breathing character, beautiful, treacherous, and filled with whispering secrets. The discovery of the Jane Doe is a masterful hook, expertly weaving together Buddy’s fresh nightmares with Fallon’s fourteen-year-old mystery, creating a sense of converging fate that is impossible to put down.
With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating, it’s clear readers are captivated. The story delivers on its promise of heat, danger, and desire, twisting through the mangroves to a threat that feels both intimate and vast. If you love your thrillers smart, steamy, and soaked in a uniquely Floridian atmosphere, Hunted in Calusa Cove is your next obsession. A phenomenal series debut.
The pairing of former FBI agent Buddy Ballard and Fish and Wildlife officer Fallon Reeves is pure chemistry. Buddy is the perfect wounded hero, seeking refuge from a haunting past only to have it drag him back into the muck. Fallon is his ideal counterpart, resilient, deeply connected to the dangerous landscape, and driven by her own unsolved trauma. Their professional collaboration crackles with a tangible, complicated attraction that feels earned, not forced, heightening the tension on every page.
Talty’s greatest strength is her atmospheric setting. The Everglades are not just a backdrop; they are a living, breathing character, beautiful, treacherous, and filled with whispering secrets. The discovery of the Jane Doe is a masterful hook, expertly weaving together Buddy’s fresh nightmares with Fallon’s fourteen-year-old mystery, creating a sense of converging fate that is impossible to put down.
With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating, it’s clear readers are captivated. The story delivers on its promise of heat, danger, and desire, twisting through the mangroves to a threat that feels both intimate and vast. If you love your thrillers smart, steamy, and soaked in a uniquely Floridian atmosphere, Hunted in Calusa Cove is your next obsession. A phenomenal series debut.
January 9, 2026
Bradford ‘’Buddy’’ Ballard, who worked for the FBI, left his career behind. He moved to Calusa Cove, Florida and is working for Aegis Network. It’s a lot quieter there. He feels guilty that he couldn’t save enough lives. He took down the bad guy who is now behind bars. He has nightmares. He’s is haunted by the loss of those girls. Fallon Reeves is a Florida Fish and Wildlife Officer in Calusa Cove. She hasn’t forgotten about her best friend, Tessa who went missing 14 years ago. It haunts her everyday. She feels guilty because Tessa took her shift when she went missing. It should have been her. Buddy and Fallon walk on eggshells around each other because of their chemistry. Neither think they deserve happiness and has accepted it. They both have trouble letting people in. Buddy starts to getting some texts that reminds him of the case he just finished for the FBI. Is there another trafficker that he didn’t get? Fallon also received messages too. Can they figure out who it is and what they want? Are they after Fallon or after Buddy for busting a big ring and they want him to pay? There are twists and turns, lots of secrets are exposed and danger everywhere. Can these two find out what’s going on and stop it? Can they heal each other? Will they be able to be protected? The characters are great. I didn’t want to put it down. Jen Talty is a wonderful author. The series is amazing. Any book of hers you read, won’t disappoint. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This new series takes the readers back to Calusa Cove, located in the Florida Everglades.
Bradford/Buddy Ballard has left the FBI after the last mission left him hollow, a shell of himself while also losing part of himself. Needing a new start, he joins the Aegis Network and offered to head a new division in Calusa Cove. The place where he met Fallon Reeves.
Fallon is a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer who still feels the guilt of something that happened fourteen years ago. The day her best friend disappeared. It should have been her and not her friend who disappeared and likely was dead.
When a woman is found in the swamp, she and Buddy start working together to find out what happened. Buddy suspects it’s related to his last job with the FBI.
As they work together, the dormant feelings between develop. But these are two individuals whose past, grief and guilt has defined them. Having fearing to take a chance on a relationship.
While they are navigating their feelings, the danger intensifies. Is the person he put in jail, the same one that was harming and trafficking girls, now working from prison or is someone else following his lead?
In this rollercoaster action packed story, the readers will be on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
Will Buddy and Fallon survive the danger to find their HEA?
This was an engaging story with strong and likable imperfect characters.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Bradford/Buddy Ballard has left the FBI after the last mission left him hollow, a shell of himself while also losing part of himself. Needing a new start, he joins the Aegis Network and offered to head a new division in Calusa Cove. The place where he met Fallon Reeves.
Fallon is a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer who still feels the guilt of something that happened fourteen years ago. The day her best friend disappeared. It should have been her and not her friend who disappeared and likely was dead.
When a woman is found in the swamp, she and Buddy start working together to find out what happened. Buddy suspects it’s related to his last job with the FBI.
As they work together, the dormant feelings between develop. But these are two individuals whose past, grief and guilt has defined them. Having fearing to take a chance on a relationship.
While they are navigating their feelings, the danger intensifies. Is the person he put in jail, the same one that was harming and trafficking girls, now working from prison or is someone else following his lead?
In this rollercoaster action packed story, the readers will be on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
Will Buddy and Fallon survive the danger to find their HEA?
This was an engaging story with strong and likable imperfect characters.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A thrilling new romantic suspense with new characters and visits with familiar characters from the Everglades Overwatch series. Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer, is called to the scene of body in the cove. She finds a young woman, barely alive, with markings that could indicate a trafficking victim. Bradford “Buddy” Ballard retired from the FBI after his last case to enjoy a peaceful life in the cove. His last case involved shutting down a trafficking ring in the area. Is someone using the area again? Buddy had met, and was attracted to, Fallon during his last case, but his job wasn’t conducive to permanent relationships. Now, living in the area, is there a chance that Fallon could ever return his feelings? She has been holding a yearly event, to honor her best friend, Tessa who was abducted while wearing Fallon’s jacket. She has been conducting her own search as to whether her friend is still alive. When Buddy learns of the young woman found in the swamp and that she mentioned the word Blue, what does it mean and will this clue lead them to why she was left in the swamp? When Fallon is threatened, will Buddy and his friends track her down before it is too late? Suspense and danger until the very last page! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jen Talty is an incredible writer of romantic suspense. Her books take you on a roller coaster ride you don’t dare get off of. Hang on for this one. The breathtaking, heart wrenching, explosive action, doesn’t stop. Incredible!
Fourteen years ago Florida Fish & Wildlife officer Fallon Reeves talked her best friend into taking her shift at work so she could meet up with her boyfriend. Her best friend was never seen again and Fallon lives with the guilt to this day. Every year Fallon throws a big memorial event in honor of Tessa and most of the town comes out in support for Tessa as well as loved ones they have lost.
Fallon had been haunting his dreams since Buddy Ballard first saw her four years ago, but she was too young. Even returning to Calusa Cove and reconnecting, he’s made it clear he isn’t interested in anything long term. Will frightening incidents revolving around the disappearance of Fallon’s best friend change Buddy’s feelings? Especially when it seems someone has it in for Buddy and is using Fallon in their insane plan for revenge?
I received an ARC and freely offer this review.
Fourteen years ago Florida Fish & Wildlife officer Fallon Reeves talked her best friend into taking her shift at work so she could meet up with her boyfriend. Her best friend was never seen again and Fallon lives with the guilt to this day. Every year Fallon throws a big memorial event in honor of Tessa and most of the town comes out in support for Tessa as well as loved ones they have lost.
Fallon had been haunting his dreams since Buddy Ballard first saw her four years ago, but she was too young. Even returning to Calusa Cove and reconnecting, he’s made it clear he isn’t interested in anything long term. Will frightening incidents revolving around the disappearance of Fallon’s best friend change Buddy’s feelings? Especially when it seems someone has it in for Buddy and is using Fallon in their insane plan for revenge?
I received an ARC and freely offer this review.
January 27, 2026
The past doesn't die. It waits....
The threats are coming thick and fast for Buddy and Fallon, each threat brings more danger and it isn't just the two of them getting injured....friends are hurt and innocent women are dying. They have to find the puzzle pieces and fast before anyone else dies. Buddy is convinced it is tied to his past and maybe it is.....or maybe they need to go back further and look at Fallon's past too. Because maybe Tessa isn't just the nightmare that haunts Fallon....maybe Tessa can tell them more.
I love this first book in the Everglades Division, it brings together two fantastic series in a crossover we definitely need more of. Buddy and Fallon are both broken and haunted by "what if's" and "could I have done anything differently" scenarios. But the guilt they carry is self imposed and has become a living, breathing beast within them that stops them living. It is lovely to finally see them break down their walls and open their hearts to possibilities as they give voice to their pain, their fears and the terrors that steal their sleep. Heart breaking but brilliant, I read this on Kindle Unlimited and look forward to more in the series.
The threats are coming thick and fast for Buddy and Fallon, each threat brings more danger and it isn't just the two of them getting injured....friends are hurt and innocent women are dying. They have to find the puzzle pieces and fast before anyone else dies. Buddy is convinced it is tied to his past and maybe it is.....or maybe they need to go back further and look at Fallon's past too. Because maybe Tessa isn't just the nightmare that haunts Fallon....maybe Tessa can tell them more.
I love this first book in the Everglades Division, it brings together two fantastic series in a crossover we definitely need more of. Buddy and Fallon are both broken and haunted by "what if's" and "could I have done anything differently" scenarios. But the guilt they carry is self imposed and has become a living, breathing beast within them that stops them living. It is lovely to finally see them break down their walls and open their hearts to possibilities as they give voice to their pain, their fears and the terrors that steal their sleep. Heart breaking but brilliant, I read this on Kindle Unlimited and look forward to more in the series.
January 13, 2026
Jen takes us back to the haunting beauty of Calusa Cove in this high-octane series starter, and it is an absolute rollercoaster!
Buddy Ballard is the kind of hero you just want to hug—then stand back and watch work. After a devastating final FBI mission left him a shell of his former self, he’s looking for a fresh start with the Aegis Network. But returning to the Florida Everglades means facing the one woman he never forgot: Fallon Reeves.
Fallon is a fierce Fish and Wildlife officer, but she’s living under the crushing weight of survivor’s guilt from a tragedy fourteen years ago. When a body is discovered in the swamp, Buddy and Fallon are forced into a partnership that’s as dangerous as it is breathless. The mystery is top-notch—is a trafficker Buddy put away still pulling strings from prison, or is a new monster lurking in the glades?
If you like "broken" heroes, strong-willed heroines, and romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this is a 5-star read. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the Aegis Network in Calusa Cove!
Buddy Ballard is the kind of hero you just want to hug—then stand back and watch work. After a devastating final FBI mission left him a shell of his former self, he’s looking for a fresh start with the Aegis Network. But returning to the Florida Everglades means facing the one woman he never forgot: Fallon Reeves.
Fallon is a fierce Fish and Wildlife officer, but she’s living under the crushing weight of survivor’s guilt from a tragedy fourteen years ago. When a body is discovered in the swamp, Buddy and Fallon are forced into a partnership that’s as dangerous as it is breathless. The mystery is top-notch—is a trafficker Buddy put away still pulling strings from prison, or is a new monster lurking in the glades?
If you like "broken" heroes, strong-willed heroines, and romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this is a 5-star read. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the Aegis Network in Calusa Cove!
January 16, 2026
Thinking he was building a quieter life in Calusa Cove, it didn’t take long for Buddy Ballard to find out that he past has come back to haunt him in the form of a young girl barely alive in the Everglades. The similarities are so familiar to a case that bothered him, he thought that he caught the felon but not before he couldn’t save two girls. They were a kidnapped for human trafficking. Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer, found her. Fallon is also haunted by the loss of her best friend years ago when her friend disappeared wearing her jacket leaving her with the guilt that it should have been her but didn’t know why. As they work together trying to find answers, will they be able to survive the choices he is faced with and save them all. This story will definitely keep you reading to find out who the person is in charge.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Buddy and Fallon pull us straight back into Calusa Cove, where evil never truly rests. The past lingers painfully, pressing in as both of them battle their hearts, minds, and tangled emotions while danger strikes hard and fast. Adrenaline surges through every page, even as guilt and inner turmoil cut deep. The camaraderie shines brightest in the chaos—strengthened by danger, questionable decisions, and unwavering loyalty. You’ll find yourself cheering fiercely for Buddy and Fallon to claim their chance at love, even while they frustrate you along the way. Once again, this town grips you with its powerful sense of community, standing strong even as it continues to attract trouble. Action and romance collide at full force, delivering another compelling ride.
January 18, 2026
Calusa Cove and it's interesting characters make for a fun and action packed read.
'Buddy' used to work for the FBI and now for Aegis Network. No government rules.
He remains haunted from his last case trying to shut down a trafficking ring, though it seems it was just one tentacle.
Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer has been someone that Buddy cares about for a long time. Their friendship will cross lines into so much more.
A Jane Doe turns up bringing so many memories back of Fallon's loss, her teen bestie who vanished. Were both these girls connected to the ugliness of other females going missing?
Through the darkness of this case love brought a lightness to the story.
Loved it and can't wait to read more.
'Buddy' used to work for the FBI and now for Aegis Network. No government rules.
He remains haunted from his last case trying to shut down a trafficking ring, though it seems it was just one tentacle.
Fallon Reeves, a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer has been someone that Buddy cares about for a long time. Their friendship will cross lines into so much more.
A Jane Doe turns up bringing so many memories back of Fallon's loss, her teen bestie who vanished. Were both these girls connected to the ugliness of other females going missing?
Through the darkness of this case love brought a lightness to the story.
Loved it and can't wait to read more.
January 13, 2026
Bradford “Buddy” Ballard former FBI now works for the Aegis Network.
Fallon Reeves is A Florida Fish and Wildlife Officer.
Buddy and Fallon have been friends awhile, there is an attraction and chemistry.
Buddy’s last case with the FBI left its mark ( on people he could not save).
Fallon’ s loss of her best friend.
While on patrol Fallon comes across, a girl caught in The Everglades.
This brings Buddy and Fallon in the middle of a case.
Can Buddy, Fallon an The Aegis Network solve this case?
Can they have a Happily Ever After?
You will have to read the book to find out it is worth it!
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, twists and turns.
Great Job Jen Talty!!!!
Fallon Reeves is A Florida Fish and Wildlife Officer.
Buddy and Fallon have been friends awhile, there is an attraction and chemistry.
Buddy’s last case with the FBI left its mark ( on people he could not save).
Fallon’ s loss of her best friend.
While on patrol Fallon comes across, a girl caught in The Everglades.
This brings Buddy and Fallon in the middle of a case.
Can Buddy, Fallon an The Aegis Network solve this case?
Can they have a Happily Ever After?
You will have to read the book to find out it is worth it!
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, twists and turns.
Great Job Jen Talty!!!!
January 14, 2026
Hunted in Calusa Cove is book 1 in The Aegis Network: The Everglades Division by Jen Talty and what a start to this new series!
Buddy Ballard, former FBI agent and now part of Aegis group and Fallon Reeves a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer have been friends since he came to Florida. When the past surfaces again for both it now time to let go of the guilt, work together on the case, suspense, danger, twists, turns, friends from prior books and an edge of your seat read…
I voluntarily read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Buddy Ballard, former FBI agent and now part of Aegis group and Fallon Reeves a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer have been friends since he came to Florida. When the past surfaces again for both it now time to let go of the guilt, work together on the case, suspense, danger, twists, turns, friends from prior books and an edge of your seat read…
I voluntarily read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Buddy has moved to Calusa Cove after leaving the FBI and following a case that has left him with a lot of guilt. He joins Aegis Network in hopes of having a more stable life and maybe a chance with Fallon. But when the past comes calling can they make a go of it and get over the guilt they both have? Suspense, danger fast paced read and a community that sticks together that will take you on a wild ride.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Back in Calusa Cove with Buddy Ballard and Fallon Reeves. Buddy left the FBI and joined Aegis Network, starting a new office in Calusa Cove. His last case with FBI left him broken with guilt. Fallon suffered a tremendous loss that plagued all the time. When trouble came they worked together, crossing the friend zone into lovers. Buddy's last case crossed with Fallon's lost friend and made for an explosive ending. A page turning suspense with wonder characters you don't want to miss.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jen Talty’s Everglades Division series is starting off with a bang with her new suspense novel Hunted in Calusa Cove. This story is so intense you really don’t know what to expect next. I’ll never look at the Everglades again without thinking about what lies beneath. I received an arc from the author. The review is my own.
January 14, 2026
Heart racing, hair raising, edge of your seat, nail biter!! Jen Talty has brought her A game to this new series and I am all in! So many twists and turns for both Fallon and Buddy to get thru. And when the biggest evil of all comes for Fallon will Buddy figures it all out and get to her in time? Will they get that picket fence or does evil win out? Whew…what a heart in your throat ride!!
January 15, 2026
I'm voluntarily leaving a review after receiving a free copy. It is a great start to a new series filled with action and suspense. I was glad that Buddy and Fallon fell in love. They both deserve happiness. I liked that a major supply line for the traffickers was shut down and hopefully answers will be found.
January 19, 2026
I really enjoyed this but I do have to say that when characters are used (that were side characters) in previous series, I wish there was a synopsis of some of who they were and what there. Not part of the book itself per say but like before it starts? I can’t remember all the side characters after reading tons of books and I always feel a bit lost
January 5, 2026
Back in Calusa Cove and it’s not as peaceful as one hoped. The past haunts the present and its on collision course. Fast paced, captivating mystery crime and Romance. Combined with the characters from the previous Calusa Cove with the Aegis Network. Excited for the next one!
January 17, 2026
Talty fictionalizes real-world events in her latest novel, which makes for hard, but timely reading. Buddy and Fallon are a great team and earn their HEA.
January 21, 2026
What a great start to a new series. Loved the suspense, twist and turns along side the danger. Great characters with great chemistry. I need the next book soon.
January 14, 2026
This is a heartbreaking story about a missing friend to human trafficking and having no clue if she's alive or dead. About two people with their own demons to bare. Hang on for the ride, it's a rough one.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews