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SCVC Taskforce #3
Deadly Force
For fans of Scandal, Graceland, and NCIS!
The third installment in the USA TODAY bestselling Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce romantic suspense series.
Other books in the SCVC Taskforce series:
Deadly Pursuit
Deadly Deception
Some secrets can kill…
NSA agent Bianca Marx is determined to save her marriage, even if it kills her. Which it just might do since she knows a secret about her estranged husband’s latest mission. A highly-skilled assassin is hot on her trail and the only man who can keep her safe doesn’t want anything to do with her.
She’ll be dead in 24 hours…unless he can save her.
After his marriage failed, Navy SEAL Callan Reese threw himself into his work. On his last black ops mission, three of his men—three good men who counted on him—were killed. Now PTSD and a military investigation have sidelined him…until Bianca shows up. She claims someone high up in the US government wants her dead, and the assassin after her is also after him.
The couple that spies together, dies together…
On the run from the very government they serve, Bianca and Cal only have each other. When they uncover a deadly scandal threatening the nation, they’ll have one chance to save the day…and one last chance at love.
The third installment in the USA TODAY bestselling Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce romantic suspense series.
Other books in the SCVC Taskforce series:
Deadly Pursuit
Deadly Deception
Some secrets can kill…
NSA agent Bianca Marx is determined to save her marriage, even if it kills her. Which it just might do since she knows a secret about her estranged husband’s latest mission. A highly-skilled assassin is hot on her trail and the only man who can keep her safe doesn’t want anything to do with her.
She’ll be dead in 24 hours…unless he can save her.
After his marriage failed, Navy SEAL Callan Reese threw himself into his work. On his last black ops mission, three of his men—three good men who counted on him—were killed. Now PTSD and a military investigation have sidelined him…until Bianca shows up. She claims someone high up in the US government wants her dead, and the assassin after her is also after him.
The couple that spies together, dies together…
On the run from the very government they serve, Bianca and Cal only have each other. When they uncover a deadly scandal threatening the nation, they’ll have one chance to save the day…and one last chance at love.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2015
89 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Misty Evans
109 books460 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Misty Evans is celebrating her 100th published novel in 2025. She loves writing urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and mystery/suspense. Under her pen name, Nyx Halliwell, she also writes supernatural cozy mysteries.
When not reading or writing (which is most of the time), she enjoys music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled rescue dogs. She’s a crafter at heart and has far too many projects to finish.
Visit www.mistyevansbooks.com to check out her online store and sign up for her newsletter.
When not reading or writing (which is most of the time), she enjoys music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled rescue dogs. She’s a crafter at heart and has far too many projects to finish.
Visit www.mistyevansbooks.com to check out her online store and sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 7, 2015
Deadly Force by Misty Evans in a 2015 publication. This book is a part of the California Violent Crimes Task force series.
The more books I read by Misty Evans the more I like her writing style. This is an excellent romantic suspense novel sure to please lovers of this genre.
Bianca and Cal are separated, heading toward a painful divorce. Cal was a high octane Navy SEAL who is now on leave and under investigation after a failed mission left three men in his unit dead and Cal with PTSD.
Bianca is genius and works for the NSA. She has inadvertently stumbled across some information that leaves no doubt in her mind that she is a target for assassination. Cal is the only person she knows she can trust, the only person who will protect her and keep her safe. So, despite their marital woes, the two will find themselves working as partners to peel away the layers of an incredible plot that could cost the president of the United States his life. In the process Cal will learn a side of Bianca he never knew and Bianca will finally crack Cal's stoic exterior. Startling truths will emerge along the way that will rock the nation and leave Cal and Bianca's fragile relationship on the line, perhaps forever.
I love stories like this where as you read further into the novel, more bits and pieces are revealed which had me trying to puzzle out who to trust, who was behind the plot, what are their motives, and have all those deep thoughts mixed in with tons of action, and hot steamy romance.
Bianca's IQ is what makes her so good at her job, but it's also makes it hard for Cal to understand how her brain works and just how important her work is. Bianca had a hard time growing up which has an effect on her thoughts, actions and emotional needs. Cal is a hard nut to crack and I wasn't sure how to take him sometimes. He is not emotional at all, but you know he feels things deeply, he just has a hard time expressing it. There is a lot of water under the bridge for these two and while it's obvious they still love one another a great deal, it's not clear if they will ever be able to work out their issues. But, while parts of their relationship problems are being talked through for the first time, and the two are more than willing to use this time to enjoy being with each other, they are under the gun in a big way and they have no idea who they can trust. So before they can make a decision about their marriage they will have to get through this crisis, a mission that will hopefully clear Cal's name. But, just like their relationship, the odds are not in their favor, especially when they finally discover the unbelievable, utterly shocking truth.
This is one ride and crazy ride, really well plotted with realistic twist and turns not just thrown in there for shock value, but to keep the suspense building at a tantalizing pace. I enjoyed the more mature couple working through marital issues, and of course I have a soft spot for those SEALS. Bianca's troubles are common for many women and it's easy to empathize with her. The other major issue the author incorporates into the story is Cal's PTSD. Again, this is an issue many who serve our country will face. I believe it's important to draw attention to it and I applaud the author for handling the delicate subject matter without hitting the reader over the head with it. Overall this is was a really great romantic suspense story that kept me entertained from start to finish and I highly recommend it. 5 stars
The more books I read by Misty Evans the more I like her writing style. This is an excellent romantic suspense novel sure to please lovers of this genre.
Bianca and Cal are separated, heading toward a painful divorce. Cal was a high octane Navy SEAL who is now on leave and under investigation after a failed mission left three men in his unit dead and Cal with PTSD.
Bianca is genius and works for the NSA. She has inadvertently stumbled across some information that leaves no doubt in her mind that she is a target for assassination. Cal is the only person she knows she can trust, the only person who will protect her and keep her safe. So, despite their marital woes, the two will find themselves working as partners to peel away the layers of an incredible plot that could cost the president of the United States his life. In the process Cal will learn a side of Bianca he never knew and Bianca will finally crack Cal's stoic exterior. Startling truths will emerge along the way that will rock the nation and leave Cal and Bianca's fragile relationship on the line, perhaps forever.
I love stories like this where as you read further into the novel, more bits and pieces are revealed which had me trying to puzzle out who to trust, who was behind the plot, what are their motives, and have all those deep thoughts mixed in with tons of action, and hot steamy romance.
Bianca's IQ is what makes her so good at her job, but it's also makes it hard for Cal to understand how her brain works and just how important her work is. Bianca had a hard time growing up which has an effect on her thoughts, actions and emotional needs. Cal is a hard nut to crack and I wasn't sure how to take him sometimes. He is not emotional at all, but you know he feels things deeply, he just has a hard time expressing it. There is a lot of water under the bridge for these two and while it's obvious they still love one another a great deal, it's not clear if they will ever be able to work out their issues. But, while parts of their relationship problems are being talked through for the first time, and the two are more than willing to use this time to enjoy being with each other, they are under the gun in a big way and they have no idea who they can trust. So before they can make a decision about their marriage they will have to get through this crisis, a mission that will hopefully clear Cal's name. But, just like their relationship, the odds are not in their favor, especially when they finally discover the unbelievable, utterly shocking truth.
This is one ride and crazy ride, really well plotted with realistic twist and turns not just thrown in there for shock value, but to keep the suspense building at a tantalizing pace. I enjoyed the more mature couple working through marital issues, and of course I have a soft spot for those SEALS. Bianca's troubles are common for many women and it's easy to empathize with her. The other major issue the author incorporates into the story is Cal's PTSD. Again, this is an issue many who serve our country will face. I believe it's important to draw attention to it and I applaud the author for handling the delicate subject matter without hitting the reader over the head with it. Overall this is was a really great romantic suspense story that kept me entertained from start to finish and I highly recommend it. 5 stars
January 12, 2017
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
January 12, 2015
Cal Reese is alone and his life is in ruins. Why did he survive when the rest of his Seal team died? Now He's struggling with PTSD. Thank goodness for his black Lab, Maggie. Suddenly his estranged wife, Bianca, is there begging for his help. An assassin is after her. She knows what happened with Operation Warfighter and now she's a target. Will they survive the next 24 hours? Bianca is extremely intelligent and determined to do her job as an NSA agent. She loves Cal but was willing to let him go. The trauma of her childhood still affects her and makes her afraid to trust. Cal was career military and was driven to serve his country. He loved Bianca and was always her protector, but he had trouble telling her. I loved this couple. I wanted them to realize that they were perfect for each other. This story is a filled with suspense, tension and treachery that extends to the upper levels of our government. Misty Evans has done a wonderful job! Her careful plotting kept me guessing until the very end. The clandestine and isolated settings added to the tension. I enjoyed catching up with familiar characters from previous SCVC Taskforce books. Deadly Force pulled me in from the first page. I couldn't stop reading. I needed to know who was behind the plot. The realism in this story was like a punch to the stomach. This series just keeps getting better. Deadly Force is a keeper.
April 4, 2016
Once I started this book - I could not put it down. I read it in one day! I love the story of Bianca and Cal - a married couple finding their way back to each other. I also loved how Misty brought a much needed topic about veteran soldier's PTSD through in this book. The only thing I didn't see is if Bianca would be going back to the SCVC taskforce. I know she is going to be with her husband but is she still going to be part of the SCVC taskforce - that is the only cliffhanger that I don't know about.
August 31, 2016
Bianca and Cal, married heading for divorce but still totally in love with each other, it's a shame their jobs are getting in the way of their happiness but when an assassin goes after Bianca there is nothing Cal won't do to save her even if it means losing her forever.
January 15, 2015
I absolutely love this series. Action packed from beginning to end. I highly recommend this book and series!!
September 7, 2019
This is the 3rd book of the series. I read one of the other series first. I would start with this series if I were a new reader.
If you want to read what the book is about, read above the reviews.
This book is based upon a group of alphabet agencies working together as teammates who fall in love while working cases.
Our hero is torn up after a couple of failures. Failure one was the last mission he was on. The second is his marriage which he’s waiting for the divorce to come any day now. Both of them was his life.
Then one rainy night his heroine wife shows up needing his help to keep her alive. Who was he to refuse?
Our heroine is gutsy, determined and scared out of her mind. She knows she’s being hunted and the only person who’s strong enough and has enough skills to protect her is her hero husband. However, he probably doesn’t want to see her either.
The plot is different and you immediately get to feel you know both the hero and heroine. Of course because of the other series, which they star, you get to really know them then. However, this is the story which started all that. Anyhow, it shows you how our couple and a friend all know each other and how the other books in the series weave within it as well. This is the main story I wanted to read because of the other series and it wasn’t what I thought it would be, but it was still worth the waiting and it answered some questions I didn’t even know I had. Great book.
As I’ve said above, this is the book I was waiting for and I wasn’t let down. I hope they keep them in some of the others within this series.
If you want to read what the book is about, read above the reviews.
This book is based upon a group of alphabet agencies working together as teammates who fall in love while working cases.
Our hero is torn up after a couple of failures. Failure one was the last mission he was on. The second is his marriage which he’s waiting for the divorce to come any day now. Both of them was his life.
Then one rainy night his heroine wife shows up needing his help to keep her alive. Who was he to refuse?
Our heroine is gutsy, determined and scared out of her mind. She knows she’s being hunted and the only person who’s strong enough and has enough skills to protect her is her hero husband. However, he probably doesn’t want to see her either.
The plot is different and you immediately get to feel you know both the hero and heroine. Of course because of the other series, which they star, you get to really know them then. However, this is the story which started all that. Anyhow, it shows you how our couple and a friend all know each other and how the other books in the series weave within it as well. This is the main story I wanted to read because of the other series and it wasn’t what I thought it would be, but it was still worth the waiting and it answered some questions I didn’t even know I had. Great book.
As I’ve said above, this is the book I was waiting for and I wasn’t let down. I hope they keep them in some of the others within this series.
October 11, 2018
If you are looking for a sweet romance, this one isn’t for you . But, if you want an action packed , nail biting, whodunit, suspense filled romance, then this one is definitely the one for you.
I have to confess that at the beginning, I did have a hard time remembering who the multiple cast of characters were, did, and what agency they belonged. Once I got over that , I let myself enjoy the story.
The story centers around brilliant, if at times socially awkward NSA analyst Bianca Marx, and Navy SEAL Callan/Cal Reese. His last mission turned out to be a disaster, and he is likely going to be court martial. To make matters worse, he is suffering from PTSD .
These two have been together since childhood , got married but now Bianca is seeking a divorce. When she catches up with Cal, shots are fired and Cal goes into bodyguard mode.
There is ever a dull moment in this story.
Aside from an engaging, thought provoking plot and complex characters, the author reminds us the effects war has on the brave men and women who give their lives to protect us. PTSD is real and we as a society need to do more to help them not only get well, but also return to civilian life. The use of service dogs as support has been shown to be very beneficial. For that reminder, thank you Ms. Evans.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
I have to confess that at the beginning, I did have a hard time remembering who the multiple cast of characters were, did, and what agency they belonged. Once I got over that , I let myself enjoy the story.
The story centers around brilliant, if at times socially awkward NSA analyst Bianca Marx, and Navy SEAL Callan/Cal Reese. His last mission turned out to be a disaster, and he is likely going to be court martial. To make matters worse, he is suffering from PTSD .
These two have been together since childhood , got married but now Bianca is seeking a divorce. When she catches up with Cal, shots are fired and Cal goes into bodyguard mode.
There is ever a dull moment in this story.
Aside from an engaging, thought provoking plot and complex characters, the author reminds us the effects war has on the brave men and women who give their lives to protect us. PTSD is real and we as a society need to do more to help them not only get well, but also return to civilian life. The use of service dogs as support has been shown to be very beneficial. For that reminder, thank you Ms. Evans.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 12, 2019
Cal seeing Bianca then seeing the gold bands they each still had on, was it the divorce paper she wanted sign. Telling him she was in big trouble and only him could keep her alive for the next 24 hours. I know what happened at Operation Warfighter. He lost 3 men and now he was under investigation from that. Instincts he wanted to protect her. She didn’t want to mess his life up again, but she had a target on her back. With gun shots they were going to find out if the boat was sea worthy. Tense, fast action plot.
August 30, 2022
"Deadly Force" is the third book in the SCVC Taskforce series and can be read as a standalone, but I don't know how anyone can just read one of these books.
This is the story of NSA Agent Bianca Marx and her estranged husband, Navy SEAL Callan "Cal" Reese. A hit man is after Bianca, not only her but also Cal, can she get him to help her? Cal is suffering from PTSD and is in the middle of a military investigation but nothing can stop him from trying to save Bianca.
This book is loaded with suspense, action, mystery and romance.
This is the story of NSA Agent Bianca Marx and her estranged husband, Navy SEAL Callan "Cal" Reese. A hit man is after Bianca, not only her but also Cal, can she get him to help her? Cal is suffering from PTSD and is in the middle of a military investigation but nothing can stop him from trying to save Bianca.
This book is loaded with suspense, action, mystery and romance.
September 17, 2018
Deadly Force book 3 in SCVC Taskforce Series is hottest, most action packed and conspiratorial book so far. Bianca is briefly working at The SCVC Taskforce but usually she’s an analyst for a secret government department. Even though Cal Reese and her are going through a divorce when she believes her life is in danger, she heads for the only person she’s ever trusted and loved. This series just keeps getting better and better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2016
Amazing Read
This one i read straight through - Bianca goes to Cal for protection, only to realize that neither of them want a divorce - can they find out who's trying to kill her and get an HEA.
This one i read straight through - Bianca goes to Cal for protection, only to realize that neither of them want a divorce - can they find out who's trying to kill her and get an HEA.
September 9, 2017
Great!!!!!
This book has everything I love. The characters are strong, interesting, loyal, and human. The story is just great with suspense, action, and love. And it's a great read. Love the HEA of course. I love this series.
This book has everything I love. The characters are strong, interesting, loyal, and human. The story is just great with suspense, action, and love. And it's a great read. Love the HEA of course. I love this series.
August 24, 2017
Great book
Loved reading about Cal and Bea's and beginning. Great story with lots of plot twists to keep you in the story and trying to figure out who is lying and who isn't.
Loved reading about Cal and Bea's and beginning. Great story with lots of plot twists to keep you in the story and trying to figure out who is lying and who isn't.
Read
January 26, 2022Good book.
January 15, 2015
Hold on to your seats!
Deadly Force is an intense read, taking you from California to Chicago on the trail of assassins and political schemers. It's an emotional ride as well--which is more than a little ironic considering its hero and heroine, Cal Reese and Bianca Marx, have definite issues with showing emotion. Neither they nor the reader are quite sure from page to page just who can be trusted or what the true end goals of the antagonists are...
I really enjoy books that keep you guessing, especially when they also have a healthy dose of romance and suspense thrown in. Deadly Force exactly fit the bill. Cal and Bianca have known and loved each other since elementary school, but their marriage has turned out to be less than perfect. Their complicated and dangerous jobs are only a part of the problem. Bianca actually filed for divorce three months before the book's start, out of a misguided attempt to "save" her husband.
Now he's suffering from PTSD from a mission gone wrong, and facing a disciplinary hearing...and sleeping next to a gun loaded with a single bullet. When Bianca shows up out of the blue, insisting that someone is trying to kill her, he can't possibly not try to save her. Even if saving her comes at the price of losing her forever...
There are so many twists and turns in the book, and all kinds of people step up to help (or are they really? Poor Cal and Bianca have a hard time knowing who exactly they can trust, and as the book continues they each sometimes choose different allies) them on their mission along the way. In between dodging bullets and getting to the bottom of a complicated plot, they're also fighting a strong attraction to each other--and wondering if they should be fighting it at all...
(of course they shouldn't. But it takes them long enough to finally agree on this--thank goodness for the HEA!)
Though it's the third in the series, it worked well as a standalone. Several of the characters from the first two books ( Deadly Pursuit and Deadly Deception ) make an appearance, but the events of this one are completely independent of those of the other series books.
I'm not saying you won't want to read the others, though... ;)
To make a good read even better, Misty is donating a portion of the proceeds of the book to service dog organizations providing support to veterans--that alone was enough to make me pick up a copy, even though I already had the ARC. A good read and a good cause. Can't lose!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Deadly Force is an intense read, taking you from California to Chicago on the trail of assassins and political schemers. It's an emotional ride as well--which is more than a little ironic considering its hero and heroine, Cal Reese and Bianca Marx, have definite issues with showing emotion. Neither they nor the reader are quite sure from page to page just who can be trusted or what the true end goals of the antagonists are...
I really enjoy books that keep you guessing, especially when they also have a healthy dose of romance and suspense thrown in. Deadly Force exactly fit the bill. Cal and Bianca have known and loved each other since elementary school, but their marriage has turned out to be less than perfect. Their complicated and dangerous jobs are only a part of the problem. Bianca actually filed for divorce three months before the book's start, out of a misguided attempt to "save" her husband.
Now he's suffering from PTSD from a mission gone wrong, and facing a disciplinary hearing...and sleeping next to a gun loaded with a single bullet. When Bianca shows up out of the blue, insisting that someone is trying to kill her, he can't possibly not try to save her. Even if saving her comes at the price of losing her forever...
There are so many twists and turns in the book, and all kinds of people step up to help (or are they really? Poor Cal and Bianca have a hard time knowing who exactly they can trust, and as the book continues they each sometimes choose different allies) them on their mission along the way. In between dodging bullets and getting to the bottom of a complicated plot, they're also fighting a strong attraction to each other--and wondering if they should be fighting it at all...
(of course they shouldn't. But it takes them long enough to finally agree on this--thank goodness for the HEA!)
Though it's the third in the series, it worked well as a standalone. Several of the characters from the first two books ( Deadly Pursuit and Deadly Deception ) make an appearance, but the events of this one are completely independent of those of the other series books.
I'm not saying you won't want to read the others, though... ;)
To make a good read even better, Misty is donating a portion of the proceeds of the book to service dog organizations providing support to veterans--that alone was enough to make me pick up a copy, even though I already had the ARC. A good read and a good cause. Can't lose!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2015
In Deadly Force (Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce) by Misty Evans, NSA worker Bianca is in trouble. Due to her work and secrets she's uncovered, she believes she is now the target of an assasin. There is only one person she trust to help her and keep her safe...
Callan Reese is a Navy SEAL who after a mission gone bad, resulting in deaths and PTSD, is now taking refuge in a boat he's living on. The last person he expects to have on his deck is his estranged wife Bianca. The same woman who wants a divorce. And although Cal is hurt and confused by that action of hers, he still loves her and will do anything to protect Bianca and keep her safe.
Not quite sure what to believe, Cal finds himself and Bianca on the run together...trying to outrun an assassin even as they try to uncover truths. They are searching for the truth to a plot that will rock the nation. Can they put a stop to the corruption that has brought them both to where they are today? Will they save each other and their marriage, or will Bianca continue to have the misguided notion that Cal is better off without her than with her?
Full of action, politics and corruption, Deadly Force is fast paced and Misty will keep you guessing. Deadly Force is filled with intricate details, plot twists, and is believable enough to have me thinking stuff like that just might be happening - you never know! There is a lot going on in Deadly Force, and though I admit to having some periods of confusion about the plot and secondary characters, for the majority of the book Misty keeps things clear and easy to follow. The main characters, Bianca and Cal, have great chemistry and the heat between them is palpable. Bianca is brilliant, but she is also a bit awkward and vulnerable at times. I didn't like how she wasn't fully open with Cal for a long time though. Despite needing his help to stay safe, she held back a lot. Cal has trouble expressing his emotions, but his feelings towards Bianca are very clear though out Deadly Force. I would have liked a bit more about their past together to help me fully understand where they are today as a couple.
Cal's dog Maggie is a sweet, realistic addition to Deadly Force. This sweet dog manages on her own to make Cal, Bianca, and the situations they find themselves in with her real.
There are a lot of secondary characters in Deadly Force, and they all play necessary roles to support the plot and main characters. I like how Misty blended them all in with the plot so well. Many of them have been seen in previous Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce books, but it is my opinion that Deadly Force stands very well on it's own so you will not be confused if you haven't read the other books.
Deadly Force is filled with action, passion, intrigue and suspense. I'd recommend it to any romantic suspense reader.
Callan Reese is a Navy SEAL who after a mission gone bad, resulting in deaths and PTSD, is now taking refuge in a boat he's living on. The last person he expects to have on his deck is his estranged wife Bianca. The same woman who wants a divorce. And although Cal is hurt and confused by that action of hers, he still loves her and will do anything to protect Bianca and keep her safe.
Not quite sure what to believe, Cal finds himself and Bianca on the run together...trying to outrun an assassin even as they try to uncover truths. They are searching for the truth to a plot that will rock the nation. Can they put a stop to the corruption that has brought them both to where they are today? Will they save each other and their marriage, or will Bianca continue to have the misguided notion that Cal is better off without her than with her?
Full of action, politics and corruption, Deadly Force is fast paced and Misty will keep you guessing. Deadly Force is filled with intricate details, plot twists, and is believable enough to have me thinking stuff like that just might be happening - you never know! There is a lot going on in Deadly Force, and though I admit to having some periods of confusion about the plot and secondary characters, for the majority of the book Misty keeps things clear and easy to follow. The main characters, Bianca and Cal, have great chemistry and the heat between them is palpable. Bianca is brilliant, but she is also a bit awkward and vulnerable at times. I didn't like how she wasn't fully open with Cal for a long time though. Despite needing his help to stay safe, she held back a lot. Cal has trouble expressing his emotions, but his feelings towards Bianca are very clear though out Deadly Force. I would have liked a bit more about their past together to help me fully understand where they are today as a couple.
Cal's dog Maggie is a sweet, realistic addition to Deadly Force. This sweet dog manages on her own to make Cal, Bianca, and the situations they find themselves in with her real.
There are a lot of secondary characters in Deadly Force, and they all play necessary roles to support the plot and main characters. I like how Misty blended them all in with the plot so well. Many of them have been seen in previous Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce books, but it is my opinion that Deadly Force stands very well on it's own so you will not be confused if you haven't read the other books.
Deadly Force is filled with action, passion, intrigue and suspense. I'd recommend it to any romantic suspense reader.
February 3, 2015
Misty Evans is at the top of my list of romantic suspense writers. Deadly Force is the story of Callan (Cal) Reese and Bianca Marx. Cal is a Navy SEAL suffering from PTSD after his last mission: he is haunted by the fact that three of his SEAL team brethren died under his command, and he lived. He has also come under scrutiny and is blamed for their deaths. Cal has flashbacks which haunt him yet keep nagging at him that something isn’t quite right: if only he can figure it out. Enter Bianca Marx. Bianca is a top-level NSA agent who is a genius with a photographic memory. Bianca has become a big problem for someone in the top level of government because she knows way too much. On top of it all, she knows why Cal’s last mission failed; therefore, she must be eliminated. How are Cal and Bianca connected? They are estranged husband and wife. Bianca runs to Cal to help save her as he is the only one she trusts. By helping Bianca, can he also save himself?
Misty Evans is a master at devising plots filled with action, suspense, mystery and betrayal all tied up with a romantic storyline to accompany it. Ms. Evans weaves a story that consistently pulls me in and keeps me guessing and pulling for the hero and heroine until the very end. I was right there with Cal and Bianca trying to figure out who to believe, who to trust and why all of this happened. The twists and turns are amazing. I just can’t get enough of Misty Evans’ books!
This is Ms. Evans’ third book in the Southern California Violent Crimes Task Force. I think this is my favorite book in the series because it deals with the military, PTSD and a woman with a high power job and Cal’s lovable dog Maggie. If you haven’t read the other two prior to this, that’s okay, but I can promise you that you will want to go back and read the other two as well. If you love this genre, you will be in for a wild ride when you read this series.
*** I would like to disclose that I received this book for an honest review that is my own ***
January 16, 2015
Deadly Force was such a great read and it had everything I like in a romantic suspense. The romance and suspense were balanced out so well, the characters were well developed and diverse, and the writing style was just perfect. Misty Evans has created a story that was perfectly paced and kept me engaged throughout – so engaged that I couldn't put the book down until I was finished!
Cal and Bianca were the perfect hero and heroine in this story. They have a history that goes back to childhood and no matter what, they truly just “get” each other – and even though they are in the middle of a divorce, Bianca doesn't think twice about going to Cal when her life is being threatened. I loved watching the two of them try to ignore the attraction that still sizzles between them, and it’s no surprise that Cal can’t do anything but offer his protection when Bianca turns to him for help.
The way Misty Evans crafted this story just worked for me. The story was told without a lot of background details up front and she chose just the right points to add them in to support the story line. I never felt that I was missing things, rather it was as if she putting a puzzle together and offering the pieces in just the right sequence to keep the story moving and complete the picture while never giving the whole story away. She also added in such a diverse set of supporting characters that helped add an additional dimension to the story. Even though they were secondary, I truly felt that I knew these characters and understood the role they were playing and why.
Sometimes a book just works for you, and this one did just that. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery (especially you conspiracy theorists out there!) that is well balanced with romance, action, and drama. A definite must read!
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Cal and Bianca were the perfect hero and heroine in this story. They have a history that goes back to childhood and no matter what, they truly just “get” each other – and even though they are in the middle of a divorce, Bianca doesn't think twice about going to Cal when her life is being threatened. I loved watching the two of them try to ignore the attraction that still sizzles between them, and it’s no surprise that Cal can’t do anything but offer his protection when Bianca turns to him for help.
The way Misty Evans crafted this story just worked for me. The story was told without a lot of background details up front and she chose just the right points to add them in to support the story line. I never felt that I was missing things, rather it was as if she putting a puzzle together and offering the pieces in just the right sequence to keep the story moving and complete the picture while never giving the whole story away. She also added in such a diverse set of supporting characters that helped add an additional dimension to the story. Even though they were secondary, I truly felt that I knew these characters and understood the role they were playing and why.
Sometimes a book just works for you, and this one did just that. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery (especially you conspiracy theorists out there!) that is well balanced with romance, action, and drama. A definite must read!
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
January 3, 2015
Action, Action and more Action!
From page one Misty Evans takes you on an action-packed adventure and doesn't let up until the end. While I would say the book is more action than romance, you never really notice with the turn of each page as the story line changes and a new bad guy emerges.
Callan Reese (Cal) is a specially trained Navy SEAL and all around good guy. He is in a bit of a retirement while waiting to see what is going to happen after his last mission went wrong. Living on a boat with his dog, Cal is just going with the motions of his crazy life while trying to deal with severe PTSD. Something went wrong in the last mission and his brain is working overtime trying to figure it out. Other than his dog Maggie, Cal only loves one woman, Bianca Marx. They have loved and protected each other since the second grade and now she wants to leave him.
Bianca Marx works for the government in a way that even her husband Cal doesn't know about. With the seriousness of their combined jobs, Bianca files for divorce from Cal to protect him and his heart. The thing is, she is the one needing protection, as the hit is on her head now. With all of their marital problems pushed to the side, Bianca goes to the one person she fully trusts in the world, Cal.
So begins a crazy tale of assassins, espionage and cover ups that put your mind into overdrive until the end. Misty Evans did a great job at keeping the story interesting until the very last page. Although given hints through out the book about certain things, I was still anxious to see how it was all going to play out in the end for Cal and Bianca.
The book is well written and although I haven't read the others, a great addition to SCVCT series.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
From page one Misty Evans takes you on an action-packed adventure and doesn't let up until the end. While I would say the book is more action than romance, you never really notice with the turn of each page as the story line changes and a new bad guy emerges.
Callan Reese (Cal) is a specially trained Navy SEAL and all around good guy. He is in a bit of a retirement while waiting to see what is going to happen after his last mission went wrong. Living on a boat with his dog, Cal is just going with the motions of his crazy life while trying to deal with severe PTSD. Something went wrong in the last mission and his brain is working overtime trying to figure it out. Other than his dog Maggie, Cal only loves one woman, Bianca Marx. They have loved and protected each other since the second grade and now she wants to leave him.
Bianca Marx works for the government in a way that even her husband Cal doesn't know about. With the seriousness of their combined jobs, Bianca files for divorce from Cal to protect him and his heart. The thing is, she is the one needing protection, as the hit is on her head now. With all of their marital problems pushed to the side, Bianca goes to the one person she fully trusts in the world, Cal.
So begins a crazy tale of assassins, espionage and cover ups that put your mind into overdrive until the end. Misty Evans did a great job at keeping the story interesting until the very last page. Although given hints through out the book about certain things, I was still anxious to see how it was all going to play out in the end for Cal and Bianca.
The book is well written and although I haven't read the others, a great addition to SCVCT series.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
January 11, 2015
Deadly Force is the third book in Misty Evans’ Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce series. I’ve read the other books in the series and I think this one is the best so far. I was captured from the opening pages. Cal Reese is a Navy SEAL who has just endured a horrific mission where three of his teammates were killed. He was lucky to survive. He is on leave pending review of the mission. His wife Bianca shows up out of nowhere. He thinks she’s delivering divorce papers but he’s wrong. She believes someone is after her but she also has information about his mission that turned deadly.
Out of nowhere Cal’s quiet life explodes around him. Guns shots are fired and before you know it they are on the run. Ms. Evans weaves a plot like no other. This was a fast paced action-filled romantic suspense novel. Every turn of the page surprised me. There are quite a few twists and turns and each time she introduces a character you think you’ve solved the plot. I am a sucker for books about the military and especially PTSD. I think there is so much to learn about this disorder and I hope by reading these books someone is either learning how to deal with it personally or helping someone dear to them overcome it.
This was a fabulous read and I absolutely loved it! I loved the interaction between all of the characters… It kept me on the edge of my seat and I can’t wait for the next installment in the series. I highly recommend Deadly Force. I would like to disclose that I received a copy of Deadly Force in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Out of nowhere Cal’s quiet life explodes around him. Guns shots are fired and before you know it they are on the run. Ms. Evans weaves a plot like no other. This was a fast paced action-filled romantic suspense novel. Every turn of the page surprised me. There are quite a few twists and turns and each time she introduces a character you think you’ve solved the plot. I am a sucker for books about the military and especially PTSD. I think there is so much to learn about this disorder and I hope by reading these books someone is either learning how to deal with it personally or helping someone dear to them overcome it.
This was a fabulous read and I absolutely loved it! I loved the interaction between all of the characters… It kept me on the edge of my seat and I can’t wait for the next installment in the series. I highly recommend Deadly Force. I would like to disclose that I received a copy of Deadly Force in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 19, 2015
As always, Misty Evens writes great action and romance! I loved Deadly Force when I read it, but when I found out that part of the proceeds are going to help provide dogs for veterans with PTSD, I loved it even more! I have long admired Misty Evans for her writing and her kindness to fans, but now she is my hero! (I don’t like the word heroine.)
We met the mysterious Bianca Marx in Deadly Deception and now we get her. When Bianca learns top secret information her life is in danger and the only person she trusts to keep her alive is the man from whom she has filed for divorce, Navy SEAL Callan Reese. The action as they follow the convoluted trail to discover the whole story and try to protect the life of the President of the United States is awesome! Although she resists involving her SCCV team in her trouble, Coop pushes his way in just as we would expect so we get so spend time with old favorites. With a great series, I always think the book I am reading is the best and this one is no exception.
I received a preview copy in exchange for an honest review. I will be buying the book soon as I have all the others.
We met the mysterious Bianca Marx in Deadly Deception and now we get her. When Bianca learns top secret information her life is in danger and the only person she trusts to keep her alive is the man from whom she has filed for divorce, Navy SEAL Callan Reese. The action as they follow the convoluted trail to discover the whole story and try to protect the life of the President of the United States is awesome! Although she resists involving her SCCV team in her trouble, Coop pushes his way in just as we would expect so we get so spend time with old favorites. With a great series, I always think the book I am reading is the best and this one is no exception.
I received a preview copy in exchange for an honest review. I will be buying the book soon as I have all the others.
January 22, 2015
This series keeps getting better; this is the third book in the SCVC Taskforce Series by Misty Evans. This book can be read as a standalone, but once you read one you will want to read the whole series. Bianca works as an NSA agent and knows some secrets that have her life in danger. There is a hit man after her and the only one she trusts and can save her is her estranged husband Cal. Callen (Cal) is a Navy Seal that is trying to overcome his demons from his last assignment where three members (brothers) of his team were killed. He is also learning how to deal with the PTSD that he has. The last person he expects to see is his wife Bianca asking for his help. They must work together to find the answers and find out who has put a hit on Bianca. This book has it all, romance, mystery, suspense, and sexy Seals. I can’t wait until the next book in this series comes out.
Buy this book, it is great and a portion of proceeds of the sales will go towards helping our veterans with PTSD!
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Buy this book, it is great and a portion of proceeds of the sales will go towards helping our veterans with PTSD!
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
January 12, 2015
Misty Evans did an amazing job with this story! I loved everything about it! Cal and Bianca are two of the best characters I have read! They have a very long and tumultuous past together, and boy oh boy, does it make for one heck of a story. They are in the middle of a divorce, but pure chaos brings them together. Perhaps, chaos isn't the appropriate word because their problems in this book go way beyond chaotic! Cal is in a constant struggle with his PTSD and his love for Bianca. Bianca is trying to fix a million problems all at one time. She is fascinating! What a terrific heroine! I adored her intelligence, and how her brain worked! It was like she had a super power! The constant twists and surprises made me love these characters even more! The way everything came together in this book was like magic. It kept me guessing the entire time, and I was never disappointed! I loved the way the story and the characters evolved in this book. I don't want to give anything away, but I never saw any of it coming! Amazing! Every single part, from the beginning to the end, was perfect!
January 16, 2015
5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, murder, suspense, betrayal, pain and heartbreak.
This is Bianca and Callan’s story. When Bianca realizes someone is after her she run to the only person who can protect her. She runs to her husband. While they are estranged she knows that he is the only person who can protect her. On the run they have to deal with the assassin who is after her and also her husband’s PTSD. The people she is working with are also trying to track her down. Who can they trust and if they trust the wrong person as they going to be able to stay alive to give their marriage a chance?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, murder, suspense, betrayal, pain and heartbreak.
This is Bianca and Callan’s story. When Bianca realizes someone is after her she run to the only person who can protect her. She runs to her husband. While they are estranged she knows that he is the only person who can protect her. On the run they have to deal with the assassin who is after her and also her husband’s PTSD. The people she is working with are also trying to track her down. Who can they trust and if they trust the wrong person as they going to be able to stay alive to give their marriage a chance?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
April 13, 2017
Cal and Bianca are definitely my favorite couple in this series, I loved the first two books, but I think Deadly Force is even better than the first two.
Misty Evans brought this couple and their friend Emit to life. The issues they are dealing with are so realistic that you just hold your breath hoping they come through everything, not only alive, but emotionally whole as well. Thank goodness for Maggie and the job she does grounding them.
Great book, when you start this book make sure you have free time because you won't be able to put it down, I know I couldn't.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Then I went and bought a copy I loved it so much.
Misty Evans brought this couple and their friend Emit to life. The issues they are dealing with are so realistic that you just hold your breath hoping they come through everything, not only alive, but emotionally whole as well. Thank goodness for Maggie and the job she does grounding them.
Great book, when you start this book make sure you have free time because you won't be able to put it down, I know I couldn't.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Then I went and bought a copy I loved it so much.
May 2, 2015
I really like this series and although this book is only peripherally a Southern California Violent Crimes Taskforce book the folks from the Taskforce show to help one of their own. This is part of a series but can be read standalone. I was wishy washy about Callan Reese until about halfway in. He has been hurt by war, his wife and his own decisions. Bianca has gifts and quirks but he has known and dealt with those since the fifth grade. They love each other but may not get the chance to straighten things out between them if he can’t keep her and her brain alive. Someone is out to kill her and ruin him. This story is filled with twists and turns and a whole lot of action. Another fun read from Misty Evans.
January 12, 2015
Wow! With characters that jump off the page and immediately get you involved in the action, Misty Evans has written another story that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. With twists and turns throughout, it was a fun, intense adventure/romance that kept me reading late into the night. Love the interaction between the hero and heroine and the strength they portray as they sift through the lies and deceit as the danger grows. Five stars all the way.....can't wait for her next book.
January 15, 2015
My rating for this book is five star. I love Misty's books but this one so far is my favorite. Maybe I am just a sucker for a strong man with a big heart and some issues that make him more human. Cal is all of that and more. Love the strong women in her books and this one has one of the strongest women protagonists I have read to date. Bianca is smart, sexy and scared to death but not willing to sit back and let others die for her. She is one tough female. Check it out truly well written plus you get to help out our veterans in need of service dogs at the same time.
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