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After Dark #1
Infiltration
Gunnery Sergeant Tyler Monroe knows how to do one thing and one thing only, be a Marine. Her future takes a painful turn when a roadside bomb banishes her to the halls of Camp Peary, tasked with teaching a group of prospective CIA analysts hand-to-hand combat, in six short weeks. Recruit Brooke Hart was never in Tyler’s plan, and keeping her at arm’s distance is proving to be her most difficult mission yet.
Tyler unknowingly created an enemy of Michael Thompson the last time she was in Iraq. Michael has now teamed up with a terrorist organization hell-bent on obtaining every bit of confidential CIA information available at Camp Peary. An insider at Camp Peary lights the way for revenge and power. Tyler must protect both her government and her heart, while trying to find a new path.
Tyler unknowingly created an enemy of Michael Thompson the last time she was in Iraq. Michael has now teamed up with a terrorist organization hell-bent on obtaining every bit of confidential CIA information available at Camp Peary. An insider at Camp Peary lights the way for revenge and power. Tyler must protect both her government and her heart, while trying to find a new path.
240 pages, Paperback
First published December 15, 2015
27 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Jackie D.
11 books66 followersJackie D was born and raised in the San Francisco, east bay area of California. She lives with her wife, their son, and their many furry companions. She earned a bachelor's degree in recreation administration and a dual master's degree in management and public administration. She is a Navy veteran and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom as a flight deck director, onboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.
She spends her free time with her wife, friends, family, and their incredibly needy dogs. She enjoys playing golf but is resigned to the fact she would equally enjoy any sport where drinking beer is encouraged during gameplay. Her first book, Infiltration, was a finalist for a Lambda Literary Award. Her fourth book, Lucy's Chance, won a Goldie in 2018.
Jackie is also the co-host of the Podcast, The Weekly Wine Down - which can be found on iTunes, Stitcher, or Podbean.
Website and blog: http://www.jackied-author.com/
She spends her free time with her wife, friends, family, and their incredibly needy dogs. She enjoys playing golf but is resigned to the fact she would equally enjoy any sport where drinking beer is encouraged during gameplay. Her first book, Infiltration, was a finalist for a Lambda Literary Award. Her fourth book, Lucy's Chance, won a Goldie in 2018.
Jackie is also the co-host of the Podcast, The Weekly Wine Down - which can be found on iTunes, Stitcher, or Podbean.
Website and blog: http://www.jackied-author.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 8, 2019
'Netgalley ARC provided by The Publisher in exchange for fair and honest review'
My first time reading this author who i think is 'bada$$' and also awesome which ends up being the start to an incredible series. This book has everything readers will love and enjoy reading for instance friendship,CIA,Anti-Terrorism squad,combat fighting and even undercover US Government stuff plus there is old war conversation,PTSD,the good & bad of soldiers and we cannot forget the sex scenes which was nicely done and steamy too. Let me also add that this was well written and should be an outstanding series(material) for readers plus i recommend everyone to take a look at this series. Nice twist at the end which leads this series to continue and the author to keep on telling the story...
My first time reading this author who i think is 'bada$$' and also awesome which ends up being the start to an incredible series. This book has everything readers will love and enjoy reading for instance friendship,CIA,Anti-Terrorism squad,combat fighting and even undercover US Government stuff plus there is old war conversation,PTSD,the good & bad of soldiers and we cannot forget the sex scenes which was nicely done and steamy too. Let me also add that this was well written and should be an outstanding series(material) for readers plus i recommend everyone to take a look at this series. Nice twist at the end which leads this series to continue and the author to keep on telling the story...
May 21, 2017
3 1/2 Stars. With book 2 in the After Dark series, coming out soon, I decided to finally read this. To be honest, this is a hard book to rate. Parts of this book, I really liked, but there were also a few issues and disappointments for me. I like Jackie D as a writer, and I'm hoping book 2, will be even better.
The story is about a Marine Gunnery Sargent Tyler, who is working on "the Farm" while on medical leave. She is training CIA analyst recruits to kill and survive. Tyler forms an immediate connection to a recruit, Brooke. But a teacher and a trainee should not have a relationship. Can they make one work, or will a mad man wanting to infiltrate the CIA, stop them from a HEA?
I thought there was a ton of chemistry between Brooke and Tyler. The whole forbidden love thing was really working. While both characters were almost too perfect, I liked them and was enjoying how the romance unfolded. But then, the "I love yous" came too quickly. I know its an action romance book, but the pace in their relationship was not yet ready for an "I love you". The intimate scenes were good, I just wish Jackie would have slowed things down a bit.
While this book overall, had a nice steady pace, I had a big issue with one of the main action scenes. Because the main POV switched to the "bad guy" sometimes, a really exciting moment was building. Bad guys were going to infiltrate the Farm, on the same weekend Brooke and the other recruits had their big finale training exercise on the Farm's grounds. Even though Brooke is trying to become an analyst, she and the other recruits, just spent all this time learning combat training from Tyler. I had in my mind this big exciting clash of bad guys against the recruits and Tyler. Tyler getting to show what a badass she is and her and the recruits saving the Farm. Instead, it sort of just fizzled out and was really anticlimactic. This big scene had so much potential, but just really fell flat.
I liked the characters, the chemistry, and the setting, the rest just didn't quite come together. I'm really hopefully book 2, will give these ladies the chance to kick some ass.
The story is about a Marine Gunnery Sargent Tyler, who is working on "the Farm" while on medical leave. She is training CIA analyst recruits to kill and survive. Tyler forms an immediate connection to a recruit, Brooke. But a teacher and a trainee should not have a relationship. Can they make one work, or will a mad man wanting to infiltrate the CIA, stop them from a HEA?
I thought there was a ton of chemistry between Brooke and Tyler. The whole forbidden love thing was really working. While both characters were almost too perfect, I liked them and was enjoying how the romance unfolded. But then, the "I love yous" came too quickly. I know its an action romance book, but the pace in their relationship was not yet ready for an "I love you". The intimate scenes were good, I just wish Jackie would have slowed things down a bit.
While this book overall, had a nice steady pace, I had a big issue with one of the main action scenes. Because the main POV switched to the "bad guy" sometimes, a really exciting moment was building. Bad guys were going to infiltrate the Farm, on the same weekend Brooke and the other recruits had their big finale training exercise on the Farm's grounds. Even though Brooke is trying to become an analyst, she and the other recruits, just spent all this time learning combat training from Tyler. I had in my mind this big exciting clash of bad guys against the recruits and Tyler. Tyler getting to show what a badass she is and her and the recruits saving the Farm. Instead, it sort of just fizzled out and was really anticlimactic. This big scene had so much potential, but just really fell flat.
I liked the characters, the chemistry, and the setting, the rest just didn't quite come together. I'm really hopefully book 2, will give these ladies the chance to kick some ass.
November 17, 2015
Infiltration (Book One of the After Dark Series) by Jackie D is a quick, compelling read. This book is fast paced and gets right to the point in a hurry. It won't take you long to get hooked!
Gunnery Sargent Tyler Monroe is back from Iraq. She is is carrying scars physically and emotionally of her time fighting the war. Her new stateside role with for the Marines, is assisting in training a group of CIA recruits the necessary skills of hand to hand combat.
Brooke Hart is in her final training segment of becoming a computer surveillance analyst for the CIA. Brooke is an athlete and an MIT grad. She excels at everything, and becoming an analyst is her dream come true. Her focus waivers the very first moment she lays her eyes on Tyler.
This book is an action packed romance, filled with cool characters and a few totally uncool bad guys. The book is well written, the story is engaging, and Jackie D did a great job of reeling the reader in and holding your attention to the very end. The only down side is I wish the book would have been longer. I will definitely read the next edition in this series.
Gunnery Sargent Tyler Monroe is back from Iraq. She is is carrying scars physically and emotionally of her time fighting the war. Her new stateside role with for the Marines, is assisting in training a group of CIA recruits the necessary skills of hand to hand combat.
Brooke Hart is in her final training segment of becoming a computer surveillance analyst for the CIA. Brooke is an athlete and an MIT grad. She excels at everything, and becoming an analyst is her dream come true. Her focus waivers the very first moment she lays her eyes on Tyler.
This book is an action packed romance, filled with cool characters and a few totally uncool bad guys. The book is well written, the story is engaging, and Jackie D did a great job of reeling the reader in and holding your attention to the very end. The only down side is I wish the book would have been longer. I will definitely read the next edition in this series.
June 20, 2023
3,5 stars
The plot was about as realistic as most spy movies, so not much, but it was decently written and I was entertained.
The plot was about as realistic as most spy movies, so not much, but it was decently written and I was entertained.
December 8, 2015
If I were to slot this thriller into my all-time read list it would be somewhere in the middle of the pack.
Tyler is a Marine injured by a roadside bomb in the front lines of Iraq. Wracked by PTSD that's compounded by survivor's guilt, she's been assigned to train a bunch of new recruits in hand-to-hand combat in a CIA training center. She feels an instant and wholly inappropriate attraction to one of her trainees, Brooke.
The first half of the book has mostly Tyler and Brooke going through their training. It was interesting watching them dance around their attraction to each other, although it could have been much better if there was less telling and more showing instead. Despite Tyler's near death encounter on the battlefield, she is almost physically perfect. And so is Brooke. They are also immediately drawn to each other. No imperfections, no juicy conflict, no friction = no excitement. :(
Meanwhile, some guy named Thompson is plotting to steal top-secret information from the CIA stored at the training camp. Having Tyler there in the same facility is just perfect timing, as he's on this personal crusade against her for something that happened in Iraq. The coincidence is a little too convenient to be believable though. Things do pick up when the Thompson guy swings into action. This part was well done and provided some sorely-needed thrills.
Would I recommend this book? It depends on what the reader's looking for. Not everyone wants a dour ptsd-wracked lead who mopes half the book away, which thankfully doesn't happen here. Tyler's characterization is well-balanced. Brooke is too perfect though and too forward/assured (cocky?) for a trainee. Her going for what she wants is refreshing though, so there is that. The plot is problematic when gone over with a critical eye, so major suspension of disbelief is required.
Overall, it's good for a fast and light read (despite the subject matter) and will be okay for a nice distraction or passing dead time. But don't expect to feel or think too much.
3.75 stars
P.S. Almost forgot to mention that I really liked the intimate scenes here, something I don't usually pay attention to in thrillers.
ARC provided by Netgalley
Tyler is a Marine injured by a roadside bomb in the front lines of Iraq. Wracked by PTSD that's compounded by survivor's guilt, she's been assigned to train a bunch of new recruits in hand-to-hand combat in a CIA training center. She feels an instant and wholly inappropriate attraction to one of her trainees, Brooke.
The first half of the book has mostly Tyler and Brooke going through their training. It was interesting watching them dance around their attraction to each other, although it could have been much better if there was less telling and more showing instead. Despite Tyler's near death encounter on the battlefield, she is almost physically perfect. And so is Brooke. They are also immediately drawn to each other. No imperfections, no juicy conflict, no friction = no excitement. :(
Meanwhile, some guy named Thompson is plotting to steal top-secret information from the CIA stored at the training camp. Having Tyler there in the same facility is just perfect timing, as he's on this personal crusade against her for something that happened in Iraq. The coincidence is a little too convenient to be believable though. Things do pick up when the Thompson guy swings into action. This part was well done and provided some sorely-needed thrills.
Would I recommend this book? It depends on what the reader's looking for. Not everyone wants a dour ptsd-wracked lead who mopes half the book away, which thankfully doesn't happen here. Tyler's characterization is well-balanced. Brooke is too perfect though and too forward/assured (cocky?) for a trainee. Her going for what she wants is refreshing though, so there is that. The plot is problematic when gone over with a critical eye, so major suspension of disbelief is required.
Overall, it's good for a fast and light read (despite the subject matter) and will be okay for a nice distraction or passing dead time. But don't expect to feel or think too much.
3.75 stars
P.S. Almost forgot to mention that I really liked the intimate scenes here, something I don't usually pay attention to in thrillers.
ARC provided by Netgalley
March 1, 2021
1st book that I read written by Jackie D. A pretty good read I might add. I liked the pull-push factor between Tyler and Brooke... What I didn’t fancy was the insta-love. And Infiltration is the second action romance book with insta-love which I’ve read in as many weeks. So, I guess, the formula for action romance is insta-love; given that things are meant to happen pretty quickly in an action packed romance? Or? 🤔
3.5 ⭐️
3.5 ⭐️
December 7, 2015
Detailed score: 3.5
Infiltration was a pantomime in book form. Our 'look behind you' villain was almost cartoon-like - I could hear the evil villain chuckle as I was reading. Our hero is - heroic - but wouuuuundeddddd deep in her soul. And our damsal in distress is, as one has come to expect from modern-day fairystories, perfectly capable of rescuing herself AND our wounded hero.
If you'd told me that I would find the (love) story between a US Marine and a CIA operative too vanilla even for my sweet tooth, I'm not sure I would have believed you. But. There you go. The instalove, romance is just as over the top as the villain.
Given the cover, the character descriptions and the plot outlines in the blurb, I think I was expecting a lot more grit than what was delivered in this book. As another reviewer has said, you can see almost every plot twist coming but... there's a reason storylines and characters similar to those in this novel have been repeated over and over -- we like them, much as it may pain us to admit it at the time.
Go into this book expecting a cartoon rather than realism and you'll have a perfectly lovely ride alongside these characters.
Infiltration was a pantomime in book form. Our 'look behind you' villain was almost cartoon-like - I could hear the evil villain chuckle as I was reading. Our hero is - heroic - but wouuuuundeddddd deep in her soul. And our damsal in distress is, as one has come to expect from modern-day fairystories, perfectly capable of rescuing herself AND our wounded hero.
If you'd told me that I would find the (love) story between a US Marine and a CIA operative too vanilla even for my sweet tooth, I'm not sure I would have believed you. But. There you go. The instalove, romance is just as over the top as the villain.
Given the cover, the character descriptions and the plot outlines in the blurb, I think I was expecting a lot more grit than what was delivered in this book. As another reviewer has said, you can see almost every plot twist coming but... there's a reason storylines and characters similar to those in this novel have been repeated over and over -- we like them, much as it may pain us to admit it at the time.
Go into this book expecting a cartoon rather than realism and you'll have a perfectly lovely ride alongside these characters.
February 27, 2020
3.25 stars. This was the first book I read from this author. As the third book in this series has just been released I decided to start reading the series from the beginning. I like the pace and writing style and I really enjoyed the story that was laid out. However, there a few points that did not add up for me.
Gunnery sergeant Tyler Monroe starts a teaching job at “the farm” instructing four CIA recruits hand-to-hand combat. Tyler is really badass, but clearly suffers from some traumatic experiences and is a bit lost at were her career is going. Brooke Hart is one of the four recruits to become a CIA analyst and there is an immediate attraction between Tyler and Brooke. During Tyler’s time in the war she made an enemy who’s plotting a terrorist attack as well as revenge on Tyler and soon Brooke and Tyler end up in the middle of this attack. I do believe this final attack could have been a more exciting with Tyler shower her combat skills or by Brooke and the other IT analysts counterattacking the attack on the IT systems.
Where the story was losing its believability for me a bit was the relationship between Tyler and Brooke. Due to their emotional and career situation, Tyler does not want to pursue a relationship beyond a teacher-recruit relationship. However, this notion appeared to be thrown out of the window too easily for me and their relationship seemed to progress almost instantly from a getting-to-know-each-other into a deep love. Nevertheless, I do recommend this book as a nice action-packed story and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Gunnery sergeant Tyler Monroe starts a teaching job at “the farm” instructing four CIA recruits hand-to-hand combat. Tyler is really badass, but clearly suffers from some traumatic experiences and is a bit lost at were her career is going. Brooke Hart is one of the four recruits to become a CIA analyst and there is an immediate attraction between Tyler and Brooke. During Tyler’s time in the war she made an enemy who’s plotting a terrorist attack as well as revenge on Tyler and soon Brooke and Tyler end up in the middle of this attack. I do believe this final attack could have been a more exciting with Tyler shower her combat skills or by Brooke and the other IT analysts counterattacking the attack on the IT systems.
Where the story was losing its believability for me a bit was the relationship between Tyler and Brooke. Due to their emotional and career situation, Tyler does not want to pursue a relationship beyond a teacher-recruit relationship. However, this notion appeared to be thrown out of the window too easily for me and their relationship seemed to progress almost instantly from a getting-to-know-each-other into a deep love. Nevertheless, I do recommend this book as a nice action-packed story and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
December 15, 2015
I guess I was looking for more in the villains take Thompson for instance he was so hell bent on Monroe but soon as she mention his mother he caves in. The other recruit Carlson as well why didn't he just leave recruits did not have to stay at the Farm. Why walk into a room full of agents and cameras especially when he was trying to play the victim. I did love the characters and can't wait to see what happens in the 2nd book.
Was given book by NetGalley for a honest review.
Was given book by NetGalley for a honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2016
For a master criminal, the main bad guy isn't.
September 19, 2017
Great book.
I really enjoyed Infiltration by Jackie D. Great mix of action and budding romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed Infiltration by Jackie D. Great mix of action and budding romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
December 27, 2015
Gunnery Sergeant Tyler Monroe is recovering from a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. Feeling responsible for her crew who all lost their lives in the mission, Monroe is seconded to training recruits for the CIA as part of her recovery.
CIA recruit Brooke Hart is the star of analysts Monroe is training, and picks up the hand-to-hand combat and weapons training quickly. They also have a clear attraction to one another, and difficulty not acting on it while Monroe is Hart’s trainer.
Outside the training camp, Michael Thompson is plotting to kill Monroe. Wanting revenge ever since the incident in Afghanistan, Thompson teams up with a terrorist organisation to do the damage he wants to inflict.
Jackie D has created a believable romance in the foreground while letting the suspense tick away in the background. Sensibly, she lets the romance take centre stage for the first half of the book and lets the action take over once jeopardy has been established for the two main characters.
The action scenes were quite good, and I liked the sense of training and focus required by the characters. There was a clear sense that Jackie D has some personal experience in the military without ever overloading this in the book. The romance was definitely the obsessive kind, but even then, I never really believed that a Gunnery Sergeant would be so undisciplined as to act on her feelings until it was safe for her to do so.
CIA recruit Brooke Hart is the star of analysts Monroe is training, and picks up the hand-to-hand combat and weapons training quickly. They also have a clear attraction to one another, and difficulty not acting on it while Monroe is Hart’s trainer.
Outside the training camp, Michael Thompson is plotting to kill Monroe. Wanting revenge ever since the incident in Afghanistan, Thompson teams up with a terrorist organisation to do the damage he wants to inflict.
Jackie D has created a believable romance in the foreground while letting the suspense tick away in the background. Sensibly, she lets the romance take centre stage for the first half of the book and lets the action take over once jeopardy has been established for the two main characters.
The action scenes were quite good, and I liked the sense of training and focus required by the characters. There was a clear sense that Jackie D has some personal experience in the military without ever overloading this in the book. The romance was definitely the obsessive kind, but even then, I never really believed that a Gunnery Sergeant would be so undisciplined as to act on her feelings until it was safe for her to do so.
January 28, 2020
I haven't read a good lesfic procedural in a long time, and I forgot how fun and absorbing they can be. Hey, I'm a simple woman--give me some hot, competent ladies kicking ass and falling in love, and I am usually on board. While the series definitely needs some developing, the action sequences sealed a pretty good rating for me.
Gunnery Sergeant Tyler Monroe is still recovering physically and mentally after losing her entire team on a mission gone wrong. She takes a low-risk appointment training four CIA analysts in hand-to-hand combat, culminating in a four-day hands-on training mission. She's not expecting to immediately fall for Brooke Hart, a brilliant and cool-headed recruit who knows what she wants--and she wants Tyler.
I really like this story. There's a clear plot and an excellent climax. The side characters are all interesting and unique and play off each other well in tense situations. The last fourth or so of the book had me holding my breath, it was so intense. But wow, this is a huge example of insta-love between the two mains. They see each other, and sure, there's a physical attraction and good chemistry, but they fall straight in love so quickly. Like, do you even know each other? I'm glad to know they are the focus of the second book as well, because with a little more development, I could totally fall for them, too. But they just need some substance.
Since I will be soon be reviewing the third book in this series, I thought I'd brush up on the first two, even though the third seems like it will stand on its own. I'm definitely eager to get to know these characters and this setting more.
Gunnery Sergeant Tyler Monroe is still recovering physically and mentally after losing her entire team on a mission gone wrong. She takes a low-risk appointment training four CIA analysts in hand-to-hand combat, culminating in a four-day hands-on training mission. She's not expecting to immediately fall for Brooke Hart, a brilliant and cool-headed recruit who knows what she wants--and she wants Tyler.
I really like this story. There's a clear plot and an excellent climax. The side characters are all interesting and unique and play off each other well in tense situations. The last fourth or so of the book had me holding my breath, it was so intense. But wow, this is a huge example of insta-love between the two mains. They see each other, and sure, there's a physical attraction and good chemistry, but they fall straight in love so quickly. Like, do you even know each other? I'm glad to know they are the focus of the second book as well, because with a little more development, I could totally fall for them, too. But they just need some substance.
Since I will be soon be reviewing the third book in this series, I thought I'd brush up on the first two, even though the third seems like it will stand on its own. I'm definitely eager to get to know these characters and this setting more.
February 3, 2016
Tyler Monroe, a Gunnery Sergeant in the marines, is injured by a roadside bomb and is the only survivor. While she recovers, Tyler is assigned to train CIA analysts recruits in a six-week hand-to-hand combat training. Enter Brooke Hart, one of the recruits that the Gunnery Sergeant must train. There is instant attraction between them but Monroe tries her best not to let it go too far. Meanwhile, Michael Thompson is looking for revenge on the Gunnery Sergeant while on a quest to get information within the CIA.
I have mixed feelings on this book. While I was compelled by the main characters and their initial attraction towards each other, I thought that they fell in love too quickly and exchanged I love yous too soon, making their romance less believable. I enjoyed the action, however, .
I thought that Tyler Monroe's character was well done, especially having survivor's guilt/PTSD and working through her emotions and feelings throughout the book regarding this.
Despite my mixed feelings, I look forward to reading the next installment of the series.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-3o
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have mixed feelings on this book. While I was compelled by the main characters and their initial attraction towards each other, I thought that they fell in love too quickly and exchanged I love yous too soon, making their romance less believable. I enjoyed the action, however, .
I thought that Tyler Monroe's character was well done, especially having survivor's guilt/PTSD and working through her emotions and feelings throughout the book regarding this.
Despite my mixed feelings, I look forward to reading the next installment of the series.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-3o
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2020
This is the first book i've read by Jackie D and i liked it so much i finished it in a few hours 😁
I tend to like anything military/action orientated so the setting was perfect in that respect.
The book is quite fast paced and therefore the relationship between Tyler and Brooke does build rapidly and seemingly out of thin air which might put some readers off if they don't think that's realistic. I on the other hand enjoyed just getting lost in their excitement and desire for each other regardless of whether anything like this is likely to happen in real life!
I also really liked the exploration of Tyler's character - her backstory and struggle with what has happened in the past, guilt and where she now sits in the world outside of being a Marine.
Altogether a really great book, wasn't long enough but then i guess that's why i need to read book 2!!
I tend to like anything military/action orientated so the setting was perfect in that respect.
The book is quite fast paced and therefore the relationship between Tyler and Brooke does build rapidly and seemingly out of thin air which might put some readers off if they don't think that's realistic. I on the other hand enjoyed just getting lost in their excitement and desire for each other regardless of whether anything like this is likely to happen in real life!
I also really liked the exploration of Tyler's character - her backstory and struggle with what has happened in the past, guilt and where she now sits in the world outside of being a Marine.
Altogether a really great book, wasn't long enough but then i guess that's why i need to read book 2!!
December 19, 2015
If I wasn't doing this review for netgalley I would have abandoned this book. I was just so bored by the plot and the characterisations. This exact story has been done numerous times before, there is truly nothing new in this book, nothing at all to give it an edge over the all the other books it emulates. I knew exactly what was going to happen in every situation. But my main issue with this book is that it does more telling than showing. The romance was a complete flop because of this, you never see the main characters' relationship develop you're just told that they feel all these deep emotions for each other the instant they meet. Honestly I couldn't connect with any of the characters and the plot in general because of poor characterisation and poor pacing.
October 11, 2017
The story left a very nice taste in my mouth. While it doesn't rock the boat, it sure make us feel good, bad guys and great gals and all.
December 28, 2015
Infiltration is a story of Tyler Monroe, a Marine that is medically discharged after her convoy gets hit with a bomb, and Brooke Hart, a CIA recruit who is completing the training at the Farm-where Tyler is a new trainer. They not only have to navigate the feelings they have for each other-Tyler is reluctant to start a relationship with a recruit, and she is still struggling with the events that led to her discharge-but they also have to tackle a threat to the Farm's secrets and to Tyler.
The sexual tension between Tyler and Brooke was evident from the start.I was surprised by how quickly I was shipping their relationship,which is a good thing because their relationship progresses pretty quickly after the halfway point. I also appreciated the description of Tyler working through her past; it was realistic from my point of view, and it definitely gave a more well rounded dynamic to her resistance in entering into a relationship.
I was pretty surprised when what I thought would be the climax-the attempted break in to the Farm-happened at the midpoint of the book. I was nervous that the latter half would lag because of it, but that wasn't the case.There was plenty of cleanup, but there were some other plot twists later on.
The only reason I didn't give this a full on 5 star review was because the villain's character makeup was a little lopsided. I understand making him unstable, but in the beginning the villain was intelligent-I assume you have to be pretty smart to successfully break in to a CIA facility-but once his plan started to unravel he went off the rails; he gave in to anger really quick and got really sloppy, which might actually be realistic, but I felt like they were too far apart on the spectrum for one character. I don't want to spoil anything, but the villain isn't the only character that suffers from a complete change halfway through the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to the next book. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
The sexual tension between Tyler and Brooke was evident from the start.I was surprised by how quickly I was shipping their relationship,which is a good thing because their relationship progresses pretty quickly after the halfway point. I also appreciated the description of Tyler working through her past; it was realistic from my point of view, and it definitely gave a more well rounded dynamic to her resistance in entering into a relationship.
I was pretty surprised when what I thought would be the climax-the attempted break in to the Farm-happened at the midpoint of the book. I was nervous that the latter half would lag because of it, but that wasn't the case.There was plenty of cleanup, but there were some other plot twists later on.
The only reason I didn't give this a full on 5 star review was because the villain's character makeup was a little lopsided. I understand making him unstable, but in the beginning the villain was intelligent-I assume you have to be pretty smart to successfully break in to a CIA facility-but once his plan started to unravel he went off the rails; he gave in to anger really quick and got really sloppy, which might actually be realistic, but I felt like they were too far apart on the spectrum for one character. I don't want to spoil anything, but the villain isn't the only character that suffers from a complete change halfway through the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to the next book. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
March 10, 2016
3-1/2 stars
I received a copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in return for an honest review.
I'm really not sure how I feel after this book. Truthfully, I liked the beginning, got a little distracted and lost interest in the middle, and enjoyed the end. How do you really rate that? The two main characters were likable, but for all the depth and backstory they were given, things just never seemed to go further than surface feelings. They were extremely attracted to each other, but Tyler, the Marine instructor, fought tooth and nail against getting involved with Brooke because she felt broken and felt that it was inappropriate to get involved with a student. But when they did finally give in to their feelings, it seemed like there was no resolution of those feelings for Tyler, just a kind of giving in to the inevitable. And her personality just didn't seem to support that type of folding. I also felt that way about the villain of the book, Thompson. He seemed to be very emotional and passionate about his cause, as well as competent, but then in the actual confrontation he let his personal feelings get in the way of his mission. I'm not sure he could have gotten that far in the first place if that was the way he operated.
I finished the book with good feelings, but it just seemed like it missed a little. Like there was intensity and buildup for a tension-filled climax that just never happened.
I received a copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in return for an honest review.
I'm really not sure how I feel after this book. Truthfully, I liked the beginning, got a little distracted and lost interest in the middle, and enjoyed the end. How do you really rate that? The two main characters were likable, but for all the depth and backstory they were given, things just never seemed to go further than surface feelings. They were extremely attracted to each other, but Tyler, the Marine instructor, fought tooth and nail against getting involved with Brooke because she felt broken and felt that it was inappropriate to get involved with a student. But when they did finally give in to their feelings, it seemed like there was no resolution of those feelings for Tyler, just a kind of giving in to the inevitable. And her personality just didn't seem to support that type of folding. I also felt that way about the villain of the book, Thompson. He seemed to be very emotional and passionate about his cause, as well as competent, but then in the actual confrontation he let his personal feelings get in the way of his mission. I'm not sure he could have gotten that far in the first place if that was the way he operated.
I finished the book with good feelings, but it just seemed like it missed a little. Like there was intensity and buildup for a tension-filled climax that just never happened.
January 12, 2020
I loved the characters I loved the storyline and I enjoyed the chemistry between Brook and Tyler it was hot and cold and o so nice. I like how the author jumped right into this story she hit the ground running and never looked back, I was all in right from the first chapter I love love a great action military story with a bit of romance thrown in and this is just what I got . I will be starting book 2 right away.
December 30, 2015
Quick question, where has this author been my entire life? This is an honest review thanks to NetGalley. This was a really fast paced book but the chemistry between the two main characters were off the charts, and the give and take made you love them anymore. If you are looking for a romantic book that has mystery and thriller qualities then this is your book. It looks like there could be a second and I can't wait to read it!
May 4, 2016
I liked this book more than I expected. It's fast paced (read it in a day while travelling), and I prefer a slower build up romance-wise, but the author did have a lot to get through!
I would definitely read another book by Jackie D. Especially with these characters. I'd like to see Brooke developed more (she's annoyingly perfect at the moment), but mostly, I'm interested in seeing how Tyler finds her new place in the world; she's a very interesting and deep character.
3.5 stars.
I would definitely read another book by Jackie D. Especially with these characters. I'd like to see Brooke developed more (she's annoyingly perfect at the moment), but mostly, I'm interested in seeing how Tyler finds her new place in the world; she's a very interesting and deep character.
3.5 stars.
December 18, 2015
I liked the premise and the initial attraction, plenty of action in the story but I couldn't quite connect with the characters falling in love so quickly and completely.
A good start, and engaging writing.
A good start, and engaging writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2016
Loved it.
I was unable to put the book down. I really did not want it to end. It had suspense, romance and great writing style. Can't wait for the next book from this author. Thank you!
I was unable to put the book down. I really did not want it to end. It had suspense, romance and great writing style. Can't wait for the next book from this author. Thank you!
July 24, 2016
A great read
Loved the story. Was well written and kept my interest. I love finding these gems and eagerly await her next novel.
Loved the story. Was well written and kept my interest. I love finding these gems and eagerly await her next novel.
August 27, 2018
Loved the chemistry between the main characters.
January 9, 2022
heel erg goed en spannend boek.... heb 2 en 3 ook in huis!
May 11, 2017
Chapters 1-4
I'm at chapter 4 of 17 at the moment. And i'm really irritated with the writing style or the way this story is written in general. I see the potential, but it's just not working for me...really frustrating. I've been kinda speed reading from nearly the start (skipping parts, etc.)
For example:
I know...i know the main character suffers from an emotional trauma and is having problems (re)connecting with regular people in real life after a stint in Iraq. But i'm really having issues with how the inner dialogue is written. For example: when the main character is chastising herself not to be attracted or interested in her love interest, it falls really flat. Because i'm not sure if the writer is trying to make it funny or not. This inner monologue is repeated too often and i'm just at chapter 4 and it's already been repeated at least 5 times. We get it!!!
Another thing is when the main characters had sex/made love for the first time. While reading I was thinking to myself "such a waste of time... i'm bored... is this really necessary?...this kinda love scene is totally not necessary for the way this books is written... etc."
Which means that the sex secenes were not hot and lacked intimacy. Which equels a waste of space. I wasn't feeling it.
Bummed.....!!!
BUT, i'm still gonna plough through the rest of the book and will probably rate it a 3 star.
Chapters 6-
It seems like the writer has found her stride and it's become less painful to read this book. The relationship building feels more normal now. The sex scenes have become better, but i still think that it comes up a bit too often for an action novel. The action scenes are nicely executed.
Overall an OK read. 3 star.
February 9, 2018
DNF at %7.
Maybe I'll come back to this later when I run out reading material, but right now I can't abide blatant instalove and two-dimensional character design. I swear, my eyes are in danger of rolling right out of their sockets, that's how bad it is.
Haaah. The only reason I picked this up is because it was nominated for a Lammy last year. Who knows though? I only read %7 so maybe it isn't as annoyingly horrible as it seems.
Maybe I'll come back to this later when I run out reading material, but right now I can't abide blatant instalove and two-dimensional character design. I swear, my eyes are in danger of rolling right out of their sockets, that's how bad it is.
Haaah. The only reason I picked this up is because it was nominated for a Lammy last year. Who knows though? I only read %7 so maybe it isn't as annoyingly horrible as it seems.
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