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I-Team #6
Striking Distance
Her past is a secret—even to her.
Discovering it will be the most dangerous move of her life.
TV reporter Laura Nilsson, known as the "Baghdad Babe," spent eighteen months in an Al Qaeda compound after being kidnapped live on the air. Two years later, she's still wondering why.
No rescue mission in Javier Corbray's fourteen years as a Navy SEAL affected him the way Laura's rescue did. No woman has stirred his protective instincts the way she has. And he wants her more than he's ever wanted anyone.
As Laura and Javier's passion ignites, so does Laura's need to discover the mystery of her past. Especially when she learns that her abduction was not random—and that she's still a target for a killer with an impenetrable motive. Now Javier will have to rely on his skills to keep the woman he loves from being struck down before she dares uncover the truth.
Discovering it will be the most dangerous move of her life.
TV reporter Laura Nilsson, known as the "Baghdad Babe," spent eighteen months in an Al Qaeda compound after being kidnapped live on the air. Two years later, she's still wondering why.
No rescue mission in Javier Corbray's fourteen years as a Navy SEAL affected him the way Laura's rescue did. No woman has stirred his protective instincts the way she has. And he wants her more than he's ever wanted anyone.
As Laura and Javier's passion ignites, so does Laura's need to discover the mystery of her past. Especially when she learns that her abduction was not random—and that she's still a target for a killer with an impenetrable motive. Now Javier will have to rely on his skills to keep the woman he loves from being struck down before she dares uncover the truth.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2013
106 people are currently reading
3573 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Clare
56 books4,312 followersUSA Today best-selling author Pamela Clare began her writing career as a columnist and investigative reporter and eventually became the first woman editor-in-chief of two different newspapers. Along the way, she and her team won numerous state and national honors, including the First Amendment Award and the National Journalism Award for Public Service. In 2011, she was honored by the Colorado Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists with their Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award for her work. A single mother with two grown sons and two cats, she writes historical romance and contemporary romantic suspense within view of Colorado’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. She is a two-time RITA finalist (Surrender, Defiant) and a three-time Daphne du Maurier finalist (I-Team series). She loves history, having studied archaeology in college, and has traveled extensively, living for almost three years in Denmark, which feels like home to her. She attributes her love of historical romance with the years she spent visiting ruins and castles in Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 556 reviews
March 7, 2018
I don't feel like writing a big review so short and sweet it is..... I really loved Javier. He was yummy, protective, and a major bad ass Seal. I liked Laura but some of the choices she made I didn't like. I would have liked Javier to have had a baby. I liked the plot, it kept me invested, but I will say the flow was slower than the other books. Overall a good read!
November 19, 2015
Are you excited yet???
Note: This review is based on the story I read as a WIP (Work in Progress), and as brilliant authors often do, there may have been changes made to the final copy.
Striking Distance is the sixth book in Pamela Clare’s I-Team series, and just like the five books before it, it’s amazing! It’s fast paced, exciting, heartbreaking, inspiring, romantic, sensuous… it’s everything we’ve come to expect from this amazing author!
From the Cover:This story deals with some difficult subject matters, including the heartbreaking aftermath of rape. The cover blurb alone tells us that this will be an emotional ride, but let me tell you… what Laura endured in captivity was hell. Even after being freed she continues to live that hell, and trying to put the pieces of her life back together and move on... well, I can imagine many women would just curl up and give up, but not Laura. She’s strong, she’s intelligent, she’s compassionate… she's truly a wonderful woman.
Her past is a secret—even to her.
Discovering it will be the most dangerous move of her life.
TV reporter Laura Nilsson, known as the "Baghdad Babe," spent eighteen months in an Al Qaeda compound after being kidnapped live on the air. Two years later, she's still wondering why.
No rescue mission in Javier Corbray's fourteen years as a Navy SEAL affected him the way Laura's rescue did. No woman has stirred his protective instincts the way she has. And he wants her more than he's ever wanted anyone.
As Laura and Javier's passion ignites, so does Laura's need to discover the mystery of her past. Especially when she learns that her abduction was not random—and that she's still a target for a killer with an impenetrable motive. Now Javier will have to rely on his skills to keep the woman he loves from being struck down before she dares uncover the truth.
Javier Corbray is an amazing man. Of course he's sexy as all get out, but he's also protective, compassionate, honorable, devoted... he's all kinds of awesome! He understands all that Laura has been through and does whatever he can to make her life easier and to keep her safe. Laura has much to overcome, but with Javier on her side, anything and everything is possible.
One of the most compelling things about Pamela's stories is how she uses events or practices that really do happen, educating us to the world around us and doing it in a way that's entertaining. Don't misunderstand - I'm not saying there's anything enjoyable about drug rings, human trafficking, heinous acts in prisons, or setting women on fire... I mean that these are things we all should know about, but probably don't. Pamela gives this to us, making us aware of what's happening, but doing so in a 'first hand' way, through her characters' eyes, and giving us hope in the knowledge that there are people out there who are working to make a difference. To make things better. And who knows? Maybe we can find a way to help, too.
In case you aren’t already aware, Pamela Clare has given us a prequel novella, First Strike, which is Javi and Laura’s first meeting in Dubai, and the super sexy weekend they spent together. If you’re interested, you can read all about why this scene was cut, and how it came to be a novella, in My Spoiler Free Review of First Strike. As always, Pamela makes sure that, one way or another, her readers get her stories, told the way she wants them told - in their entirety!
Well, I best stop now before I start rambling - more than I already am. There's so much to say but all you need to know is that Striking Distance is a riveting, poignant story. Javi and Laura are a worthy addition to the other I-Team happily ever afters, and It doesn't get better than that!
My sincerest thanks to Pamela Clare for once again allowing me to be part of her reading team. As always, it’s been an incredible ride!
The I-Team reading order so far:
1. Extreme Exposure
1.5 Heaven Can't Wait - a novella found in the out of print anthology Catch of the Day and on ebook
2. Hard Evidence
3. Unlawful Contact
4. Naked Edge
5. Breaking Point
5.5. Skin Deep
5.9. First Strike
6. Striking Distance
--------------
If you're already a Pamela Clare fan, or interested in learning more about her and her books, be sure to stop by our Pamela Clare Fan Group here on Goodreads!
November 14, 2014
3.5 stars!
Pamela Clare is an author to behold in the romantic suspense genre. Utilizing her background as an investigative reporter and adding her experiences in her stories brings a gritty realism in each and every one of her books in this series. Her swoon worthy alpha male heroes and smart, sassy heroines combined with intricate, intense plotlines are what makes her books winners for me again and again. So only being able to give Striking Distance 3.5 stars cuts me because I love her characters, I love her writing, but several clichéd moments along with a weak romantic connection and mediocre suspense crippled this book for me.
Branded as the ‘Baghdad Babe,’ renown reporter Laura Nilsson was captured on air by terrorist forces and spent the next 18 months as a captive, repeatedly raped and brutalized. After being rescued by Navy SEALs and spending time recuperating and healing, she still doesn’t know why she was targeted.
Javier Corbray has seen and done things in his 14 years of being a Navy SEAL, but no operation or event has gutted him more than Laura’s capture and later, her rescue. Having spent a wild ‘no-strings-attached’ weekend together with Laura right before her capture, Javier’s harbored immense guilt for not being able to be there for her when she was taken, and unknown to Laura, was the masked SEAL who rescued her 18 months later.
Over two years has passed since the day she’s rescued and Javier’s on a brief leave from the SEALs visiting his old friend while Laura is a reporter on the top-notch I-team for the paper and their paths collide once again. As events fast-forward with a monumental trial and social media all dying to get a piece on the Baghdad Babe’s ordeal, unknown and belligerent forces are threatening Laura’s life and the only thing standing between her and death is Javier.
This book really did have all the ingredients for a 5 star read but somehow the combination fell flat. The most prominent of my complaints is the weak romantic connection between the two main characters: I just didn’t feel it. This may sound harsh or uncaring but one no-strings-attached weekend doesn’t constitute as relationship development and enough of a thread to connect these two characters. They had sex, both had terrible ordeals for the years in between, and with one chance encounter their connection is just rekindled? Not buying it.
The first half of the book I was a little bored and while there was some suspense it was nowhere at the level of the previous books and didn’t get my heart pounding. There were also a few out-of-character descriptions that really bothered me… Near the end there was an unexpected but welcomed heart-in-throat moment that really hit me in the feels but then that part was ruined by the unrealistic and rushed epilogue ending.
This book was definitely not a bad read by any means, and I’d say it’s actually much better than most romantic suspense books I have read; however, when compared to the other outstanding books in this series, it certainly falls flat, at least for me it did. I did enjoy catching up with the rest of the gang and revisiting my favorite couples and heroes though (shoutout to Marc Hunter and Gabe Rossiter).
Striking Distance is the 6th book in the I-team series. All of the books are interconnected standalones but I highly recommend reading them in order to get the full reading experience.
I was gifted a paperback copy by the author to review.
Pamela Clare is an author to behold in the romantic suspense genre. Utilizing her background as an investigative reporter and adding her experiences in her stories brings a gritty realism in each and every one of her books in this series. Her swoon worthy alpha male heroes and smart, sassy heroines combined with intricate, intense plotlines are what makes her books winners for me again and again. So only being able to give Striking Distance 3.5 stars cuts me because I love her characters, I love her writing, but several clichéd moments along with a weak romantic connection and mediocre suspense crippled this book for me.
Branded as the ‘Baghdad Babe,’ renown reporter Laura Nilsson was captured on air by terrorist forces and spent the next 18 months as a captive, repeatedly raped and brutalized. After being rescued by Navy SEALs and spending time recuperating and healing, she still doesn’t know why she was targeted.
Javier Corbray has seen and done things in his 14 years of being a Navy SEAL, but no operation or event has gutted him more than Laura’s capture and later, her rescue. Having spent a wild ‘no-strings-attached’ weekend together with Laura right before her capture, Javier’s harbored immense guilt for not being able to be there for her when she was taken, and unknown to Laura, was the masked SEAL who rescued her 18 months later.
Over two years has passed since the day she’s rescued and Javier’s on a brief leave from the SEALs visiting his old friend while Laura is a reporter on the top-notch I-team for the paper and their paths collide once again. As events fast-forward with a monumental trial and social media all dying to get a piece on the Baghdad Babe’s ordeal, unknown and belligerent forces are threatening Laura’s life and the only thing standing between her and death is Javier.
This book really did have all the ingredients for a 5 star read but somehow the combination fell flat. The most prominent of my complaints is the weak romantic connection between the two main characters: I just didn’t feel it. This may sound harsh or uncaring but one no-strings-attached weekend doesn’t constitute as relationship development and enough of a thread to connect these two characters. They had sex, both had terrible ordeals for the years in between, and with one chance encounter their connection is just rekindled? Not buying it.
The first half of the book I was a little bored and while there was some suspense it was nowhere at the level of the previous books and didn’t get my heart pounding. There were also a few out-of-character descriptions that really bothered me… Near the end there was an unexpected but welcomed heart-in-throat moment that really hit me in the feels but then that part was ruined by the unrealistic and rushed epilogue ending.
This book was definitely not a bad read by any means, and I’d say it’s actually much better than most romantic suspense books I have read; however, when compared to the other outstanding books in this series, it certainly falls flat, at least for me it did. I did enjoy catching up with the rest of the gang and revisiting my favorite couples and heroes though (shoutout to Marc Hunter and Gabe Rossiter).
Striking Distance is the 6th book in the I-team series. All of the books are interconnected standalones but I highly recommend reading them in order to get the full reading experience.
I was gifted a paperback copy by the author to review.
November 10, 2013
3.5 stars.***Review completed November 10, 2013
Pic approved by GR September 19, 2013.
Favorite "quote":
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed because I sure am. Striking Distance didn't live up to my extremely high expectations. Now that I've had time to think about it for a little while, I'd go so far and say that SD is one of my biggest reading disappointments this year.
Many of you know how much I love to add quotes to my reviews. In fact, it’s an essential part of my reviews. When I’m digging through a story looking for memorable quotes, that’s the equivalent to breathing—at least to me. Great quotes render a story unforgettable. Having said this, I’ve sorely missed a compelling dialogue and narrative in SD that would have provided more than a few fabulous quotes. Based on the outstanding and truly fantastic prologue which deserves easily five stars, I would have expected to be completely blown away. Yet it truly pains me to say that I feel anything but impressed. Funnily enough, the same happened to me when I was reading Breaking Point. After a fabulous prologue, the story and its characters didn’t achieve to captivate me and somewhere along the way my interest just petered out. I feel so extremely bummed at the moment because I wanted to love this book and I feel bad for voicing my negative feelings. I’m really sorry because I don’t intend to hurt anyone’s feelings but honesty is still the best policy and I want to give you my sincere opinion.
I don’t want to minimize or disrespect Laura’s ordeal in any way, but there was so much despair, sorrow, self-loathing and self-reproaches that I felt I could have done with less drama because it kinda suffocated the entire story. Striking Distance is a rather massive weep fest and that's exactly one of my main issues. Believe me, I love emotional reads but I don't think that so much crying will sensitize or heighten my reading experience in any way, shape or form. The (emotional) connection between a reader and the main protagonists doesn't happen solely based on dramatic events or tragedies. I guess that's where this story failed big time for me personally. Somewhere along the way Javier and Laura really lost me. My heart wasn't engaged anymore.
Besides, the writing felt too clichéd and even corny at times and another main issue of mine was the fact that the overall atmosphere of the story was too soapy for my taste. Javier calling Laura bella all the time got on my very last nerve. Also, while I'm a huge sucker for badass AND tender alpha males, Javier came across as too schmaltzy for my liking and I never fell in love with him. Since I was never able to emotionally bond with the characters, it's safe to say that compromised the entire book for me.
I'd like to point out that my spoiler didn't influence my rating.
The part was way too sappy and fell totally flat for me. Plus, I would go so far and say it was superfluous. When Laura confessed to I couldn't believe that something so incredibly vital and important could have been treated within a timeframe of a few minutes. Also, I felt that basically the ending including both epilogues felt too rushed. It's difficult to put a finger on it but I didn't feel satisfied, I just needed more. Maybe it's due to the fact that the story as a whole didn't do it for me. Having said this, I guess it was a lost cause to win me over at the last moment anyhow.
My favorite books of the series are:
Naked Edge
Unlawful Contact
Striking Distance is by no means a bad book. I liked it but didn't love it and overall it just didn't push the right buttons for me. Considering how many five-star ratings I've seen already, it's probably best to ignore my point of view and I'd say this book is a must read. I'm sure that a huge majority of readers will love it. Maybe I just didn't feel "it" and this might as well be another case of it's me and not the book. Happy reading!
http://baba.booklikes.com
Pic approved by GR September 19, 2013.
Javier opened her makeup kit, held it edge to edge with the dressing table, and swept everything--every vial, brush, tube, and bottle--into the kit with his forearm.
Laura gaped at him. "That stuff is worth hundreds of dollars."
He shrugged, then shut the kit. "That's how SEALs pack makeup."
"My fault?" Hey, you started it." He followed her. "Don't get me wrong. I'm happy to be your morning lollipop, but I need to eat, too."
Favorite "quote":
She turned to find him standing there, one dark eyebrow arched, her blue jelly vibrator buzzing and rotating at high speed in his hand. Heat flooded her face. "Oh, my God! Where--"
"You left one of the bathroom drawers open."
Helvete! Damn!
She reached for it.
He angled his upper body away from her and held it out of her reach. "Hold on. I've got a right to check out my competition. Are you blushing? You are."
She pressed her palms to her cheeks. "I don't blush."
He leaned in, still holding the vibrator out of reach. "The hell you don't. Look--your cheeks are all pink."(…)
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed because I sure am. Striking Distance didn't live up to my extremely high expectations. Now that I've had time to think about it for a little while, I'd go so far and say that SD is one of my biggest reading disappointments this year.
Many of you know how much I love to add quotes to my reviews. In fact, it’s an essential part of my reviews. When I’m digging through a story looking for memorable quotes, that’s the equivalent to breathing—at least to me. Great quotes render a story unforgettable. Having said this, I’ve sorely missed a compelling dialogue and narrative in SD that would have provided more than a few fabulous quotes. Based on the outstanding and truly fantastic prologue which deserves easily five stars, I would have expected to be completely blown away. Yet it truly pains me to say that I feel anything but impressed. Funnily enough, the same happened to me when I was reading Breaking Point. After a fabulous prologue, the story and its characters didn’t achieve to captivate me and somewhere along the way my interest just petered out. I feel so extremely bummed at the moment because I wanted to love this book and I feel bad for voicing my negative feelings. I’m really sorry because I don’t intend to hurt anyone’s feelings but honesty is still the best policy and I want to give you my sincere opinion.
I don’t want to minimize or disrespect Laura’s ordeal in any way, but there was so much despair, sorrow, self-loathing and self-reproaches that I felt I could have done with less drama because it kinda suffocated the entire story. Striking Distance is a rather massive weep fest and that's exactly one of my main issues. Believe me, I love emotional reads but I don't think that so much crying will sensitize or heighten my reading experience in any way, shape or form. The (emotional) connection between a reader and the main protagonists doesn't happen solely based on dramatic events or tragedies. I guess that's where this story failed big time for me personally. Somewhere along the way Javier and Laura really lost me. My heart wasn't engaged anymore.
Besides, the writing felt too clichéd and even corny at times and another main issue of mine was the fact that the overall atmosphere of the story was too soapy for my taste. Javier calling Laura bella all the time got on my very last nerve. Also, while I'm a huge sucker for badass AND tender alpha males, Javier came across as too schmaltzy for my liking and I never fell in love with him. Since I was never able to emotionally bond with the characters, it's safe to say that compromised the entire book for me.
I'd like to point out that my spoiler didn't influence my rating.
The part was way too sappy and fell totally flat for me. Plus, I would go so far and say it was superfluous. When Laura confessed to I couldn't believe that something so incredibly vital and important could have been treated within a timeframe of a few minutes. Also, I felt that basically the ending including both epilogues felt too rushed. It's difficult to put a finger on it but I didn't feel satisfied, I just needed more. Maybe it's due to the fact that the story as a whole didn't do it for me. Having said this, I guess it was a lost cause to win me over at the last moment anyhow.
My favorite books of the series are:
Naked Edge
Unlawful Contact
Striking Distance is by no means a bad book. I liked it but didn't love it and overall it just didn't push the right buttons for me. Considering how many five-star ratings I've seen already, it's probably best to ignore my point of view and I'd say this book is a must read. I'm sure that a huge majority of readers will love it. Maybe I just didn't feel "it" and this might as well be another case of it's me and not the book. Happy reading!
http://baba.booklikes.com
October 10, 2015
5+++ Emotionally charged and Suspenseful Stars
"The woman he remembers still exists inside you. You just need to set her free."
No one, and I mean no one does Romantic Suspense quite like Pamela Clare. I have loved this entire series, but this book blew them all out of the water. I cried, I sobbed, I swooned, I cried, I laughed, I didn't want it to end. As much as I loved Hunt, I think after Javi he has now moved to number 2. Javier stole my heart. (And after the prequel novella...my ovaries too). If you have read Clare's other books, then you know just how amazing of an author she is, and this book is the perfect example of why. And if you have not yet experienced the absolute AWESOME that is this series, drop everything you're doing (I'm not even kidding, do it now. Don't even bother reading my review) and READ.THIS.BOOK. While I would definitely recommend reading this in order, you can easily read this book as a standalone since neither Javier nor Laura appeared in previous books. But the characters from previous books do make an appearance in here.
Over 3 years ago, a chance meeting in a bar in Dubai leads to a unforgettably erotic weekend between Laura and Javier. Although they each promise the other no strings, that night stays with them and they both harbor a desire to see the other again. But those plans come to a screeching halt when in the middle of a live broadcast, Laura's entire team gets slaughtered while she is kidnapped and held captive and presumed dead.
Surviving unimaginable horror at the hands of a brutal terrorist for 18 months, Laura tries to hold on to her memories. Months of torture forces to lose touch with a lot of reality that she struggles to even remember her own name.
Javier never got over Laura's supposed death. Having believed that she was beheaded immediately after her kidnapping, his only thought is revenge against the man responsible for it. Months of planning and his special ops team is put in charge of the raid against the Al Qaeda compound that hides the terrorist. Nothing could shock him more than discovering that Laura has been alive all this time. So when a threat is made on Laura's life, Javier knows no one is more determined or capable to keep her alive than he is.
This book broke my heart. And then it put it together piece by emotional piece. Reading about everything that Laura went through was simply devastating. She was such an incredible heroine. I can probably go so far as to say she was my favorite in the series. She was vulnerable and damaged, but had this incredible strong and persevering core. My heart broke for her with every new detail that came to light about her time in captivity.
And then there was Javi. My amazing, sexy as sin, broken in his own way, Javi. He was just perfect. His last mission has left him with scars, some on the surface, but the deepest being on his soul.
He struggles with what happens and learning to trust someone with his past.
Laura and Javier together was just beautiful. I love the way they both soothed the other.
This book was an intense and emotional read. The connection between Laura and Javier was written in such a beautiful way that it flowed off of the pages effortlessly. While I've come to expect and love a certain amount of steam in Clare's books, I loved the way it was written here. It was't just empty sex, it was a beautiful and emotional connection between two people learning to heal and move on.
It was, in a word, perfection.
The suspense part of the story was fantastic. It kept me at the edge of my seat from beginning to end guessing and grasping at shadows. And when the culprit was finally revealed, I was truly shocked.
I adored this book. I loved everything about it. And that is not something I can say often. If you are a fan of romantic suspense, and even if you aren't, you will love this book. Packed with action, suspense, steam, and emotionally gripping this is a story I will not be forgetting any time soon.
For more reviews visit
"The woman he remembers still exists inside you. You just need to set her free."
No one, and I mean no one does Romantic Suspense quite like Pamela Clare. I have loved this entire series, but this book blew them all out of the water. I cried, I sobbed, I swooned, I cried, I laughed, I didn't want it to end. As much as I loved Hunt, I think after Javi he has now moved to number 2. Javier stole my heart. (And after the prequel novella...my ovaries too). If you have read Clare's other books, then you know just how amazing of an author she is, and this book is the perfect example of why. And if you have not yet experienced the absolute AWESOME that is this series, drop everything you're doing (I'm not even kidding, do it now. Don't even bother reading my review) and READ.THIS.BOOK. While I would definitely recommend reading this in order, you can easily read this book as a standalone since neither Javier nor Laura appeared in previous books. But the characters from previous books do make an appearance in here.
Over 3 years ago, a chance meeting in a bar in Dubai leads to a unforgettably erotic weekend between Laura and Javier. Although they each promise the other no strings, that night stays with them and they both harbor a desire to see the other again. But those plans come to a screeching halt when in the middle of a live broadcast, Laura's entire team gets slaughtered while she is kidnapped and held captive and presumed dead.
Surviving unimaginable horror at the hands of a brutal terrorist for 18 months, Laura tries to hold on to her memories. Months of torture forces to lose touch with a lot of reality that she struggles to even remember her own name.
Javier never got over Laura's supposed death. Having believed that she was beheaded immediately after her kidnapping, his only thought is revenge against the man responsible for it. Months of planning and his special ops team is put in charge of the raid against the Al Qaeda compound that hides the terrorist. Nothing could shock him more than discovering that Laura has been alive all this time. So when a threat is made on Laura's life, Javier knows no one is more determined or capable to keep her alive than he is.
This book broke my heart. And then it put it together piece by emotional piece. Reading about everything that Laura went through was simply devastating. She was such an incredible heroine. I can probably go so far as to say she was my favorite in the series. She was vulnerable and damaged, but had this incredible strong and persevering core. My heart broke for her with every new detail that came to light about her time in captivity.
And then there was Javi. My amazing, sexy as sin, broken in his own way, Javi. He was just perfect. His last mission has left him with scars, some on the surface, but the deepest being on his soul.
He struggles with what happens and learning to trust someone with his past.
Laura and Javier together was just beautiful. I love the way they both soothed the other.
This book was an intense and emotional read. The connection between Laura and Javier was written in such a beautiful way that it flowed off of the pages effortlessly. While I've come to expect and love a certain amount of steam in Clare's books, I loved the way it was written here. It was't just empty sex, it was a beautiful and emotional connection between two people learning to heal and move on.
It was, in a word, perfection.
The suspense part of the story was fantastic. It kept me at the edge of my seat from beginning to end guessing and grasping at shadows. And when the culprit was finally revealed, I was truly shocked.
I adored this book. I loved everything about it. And that is not something I can say often. If you are a fan of romantic suspense, and even if you aren't, you will love this book. Packed with action, suspense, steam, and emotionally gripping this is a story I will not be forgetting any time soon.
For more reviews visit
November 13, 2013
Such a difficult story to read and rate...
I absolutely love Pamela Clare's I-Team series--it is by far one of the best RS series out there. Her writing is always first rate, and often very informative. There's always something I learn while reading one of her stories--and I like that feeling. Her romances are usually well developed; I feel connected to the couple, love their dialogue, and the bedroom scenes are always smokin' hot. The prequel to this story (the novella First Strike) was absolutely one of the hottest little stories I've read in a while (just look at the cover!), and for that reason alone I couldn't wait to dive into Striking Distance.
Javier may have a smooth chest and no tats, but this guy has 'the look'..
I imagined Laura as a young Lara Logan...
However, maybe I went into reading this book with the wrong mindset. I underestimated how difficult this book would be to read. I mean I knew things were not going to be good after reading the cliffhanger in First Strike, and PC wasn't all that explicit with what happened to Laura while being held captive (nothing gratuitous), but still...it was very upsetting. Many times I had tears in my eyes, and even after she was rescued, I felt bad. I felt bad for Laura, I felt bad for Javier, I felt bad for her mother...I just wanted someone to have some happiness. I guess it's a testament to PC's skills as a writer that she made me get all emotional. And even a little depressed.
Javier's a SEAL and puts his swimming skills to daring use...
But I soldiered on--surely Laura would turn the corner and there would be some happiness in her future, right? And yes, there was. She had Javier, one of the most patient, devoted, caring, selfless, bravest alpha heroes around. I adored him. And god did I want him to find some happiness with Laura. It took awhile, but they did. And when Javier performed one of the most selfless, brave acts (this really showed me his love for Laura) late in the book, and it didn't turn out they way I thought it would (lots of tears here), there I went feeling all depressed again!
Javier...
You know I really admired Laura, even though I didn't always understand her or some of the choices she made. What she went through was unimaginable, yet she found a way to get beyond it and tried to have as much as a normal life as she possibly could. She was a heroine in every sense of the word.
And Javier--what a man. It did make me kind of sad while reading the bittersweet epilogue
Was this my favorite I-Team story? Nope. Just a little too depressing for my tastes. Was the story compelling? Absolutely. Did I admire the H/h? Of course. Were parts of it hot? You betcha. ( Was it romantic? Yes, I had no doubts about Javier's and Laura's love for each other. Did I enjoy seeing all the couples from the previous I-Team books? A resounding yesss! But for the sheer difficulty of the story line/subject matter, and the depressing nature of it, it falls short of being a favorite PC read. Still a must read for any Pamela Clare fan. 4 1/2 stars
I absolutely love Pamela Clare's I-Team series--it is by far one of the best RS series out there. Her writing is always first rate, and often very informative. There's always something I learn while reading one of her stories--and I like that feeling. Her romances are usually well developed; I feel connected to the couple, love their dialogue, and the bedroom scenes are always smokin' hot. The prequel to this story (the novella First Strike) was absolutely one of the hottest little stories I've read in a while (just look at the cover!), and for that reason alone I couldn't wait to dive into Striking Distance.
Javier may have a smooth chest and no tats, but this guy has 'the look'..
I imagined Laura as a young Lara Logan...
However, maybe I went into reading this book with the wrong mindset. I underestimated how difficult this book would be to read. I mean I knew things were not going to be good after reading the cliffhanger in First Strike, and PC wasn't all that explicit with what happened to Laura while being held captive (nothing gratuitous), but still...it was very upsetting. Many times I had tears in my eyes, and even after she was rescued, I felt bad. I felt bad for Laura, I felt bad for Javier, I felt bad for her mother...I just wanted someone to have some happiness. I guess it's a testament to PC's skills as a writer that she made me get all emotional. And even a little depressed.
Javier's a SEAL and puts his swimming skills to daring use...
But I soldiered on--surely Laura would turn the corner and there would be some happiness in her future, right? And yes, there was. She had Javier, one of the most patient, devoted, caring, selfless, bravest alpha heroes around. I adored him. And god did I want him to find some happiness with Laura. It took awhile, but they did. And when Javier performed one of the most selfless, brave acts (this really showed me his love for Laura) late in the book, and it didn't turn out they way I thought it would (lots of tears here), there I went feeling all depressed again!
Javier...
You know I really admired Laura, even though I didn't always understand her or some of the choices she made. What she went through was unimaginable, yet she found a way to get beyond it and tried to have as much as a normal life as she possibly could. She was a heroine in every sense of the word.
And Javier--what a man. It did make me kind of sad while reading the bittersweet epilogue
Was this my favorite I-Team story? Nope. Just a little too depressing for my tastes. Was the story compelling? Absolutely. Did I admire the H/h? Of course. Were parts of it hot? You betcha. ( Was it romantic? Yes, I had no doubts about Javier's and Laura's love for each other. Did I enjoy seeing all the couples from the previous I-Team books? A resounding yesss! But for the sheer difficulty of the story line/subject matter, and the depressing nature of it, it falls short of being a favorite PC read. Still a must read for any Pamela Clare fan. 4 1/2 stars
November 9, 2013
Overall another great, tear jerking read for the I-Team fans!! But to be completely honest, this was not my favorite in the series. While there was much to enjoy in this story and the ending will tug heavily on your heart, I did have some issues with the slower paced storyline.
Unlike past books in this series, STRIKING DISTANCE takes more time developing the romance between its protagonists, and tones down the amount of adrenalin pumping, over-the-top suspense we are used to seeing in every chapter. A lot of fans will love this change, but for me I felt it needed more action to keep me fully engaged in the story. Many chapters ended without that 'hook' that keeps a reader clamoring for more and willing to stay up all night as they simply can't put the book down.
Don't get me wrong, STRIKING DISTANCE does have some great action moments and it started with one of the most intense prologues I have ever read, leaving me biting my nails for more. But then the story fast forwards a few years and it slows considerably.
The good news is we get a far more believable romance as it is not rushed over a short period of mere days while they constantly dodge bullets and thwart bad guys. Javier & Laura get to know each other on a deeper level, and they don't mistake having sex with falling in love. There are a lot of tender, sweet moments between Javier & Laura that will have you sighing heavily!
The bad news is the slower paced storyline got a bit tedious. The story spends a lot of time with the H/h relaxing, chatting, lounging, dining, watching TV and otherwise just hanging out. The bad guys are more speculative and the suspense is not as intertwined as we saw in past books. The times where the suspense does pick up and danger is imminent, the resolution comes quick. Discovering who the 'bad guy' was not as climatic as other stories either.
Javier & Laura were great characters. They both suffer from PTSD issues. We learn early on about Laura's time in captivity when the world thought she was dead, and how utterly tragic Javier had it fighting on the war front as a SEAL member. Their stories will break your heart, and make you so glad they found each other. Together they are medicine for each others soul, and we get quite a few laughs and smiles watching them fall in love.
The heat is also turned down a bit compared to past stories, but I didn't mind at all. Sex scenes are meant to advance the romance, and in this book they are PERFECTLY done. Laura's past trauma makes her unsure if she will ever enjoy sex again, so the exploration between these two to rediscover sexual passion was just as hot as any sex scene.
So overall this was a great story, I just wished it had more suspense intertwined and less time with Javier & Laura calmly relaxing so much. I guess I like a bit more suspense in my romance suspense reads.
Review also at Booklikes.com
Unlike past books in this series, STRIKING DISTANCE takes more time developing the romance between its protagonists, and tones down the amount of adrenalin pumping, over-the-top suspense we are used to seeing in every chapter. A lot of fans will love this change, but for me I felt it needed more action to keep me fully engaged in the story. Many chapters ended without that 'hook' that keeps a reader clamoring for more and willing to stay up all night as they simply can't put the book down.
Don't get me wrong, STRIKING DISTANCE does have some great action moments and it started with one of the most intense prologues I have ever read, leaving me biting my nails for more. But then the story fast forwards a few years and it slows considerably.
The good news is we get a far more believable romance as it is not rushed over a short period of mere days while they constantly dodge bullets and thwart bad guys. Javier & Laura get to know each other on a deeper level, and they don't mistake having sex with falling in love. There are a lot of tender, sweet moments between Javier & Laura that will have you sighing heavily!
The bad news is the slower paced storyline got a bit tedious. The story spends a lot of time with the H/h relaxing, chatting, lounging, dining, watching TV and otherwise just hanging out. The bad guys are more speculative and the suspense is not as intertwined as we saw in past books. The times where the suspense does pick up and danger is imminent, the resolution comes quick. Discovering who the 'bad guy' was not as climatic as other stories either.
Javier & Laura were great characters. They both suffer from PTSD issues. We learn early on about Laura's time in captivity when the world thought she was dead, and how utterly tragic Javier had it fighting on the war front as a SEAL member. Their stories will break your heart, and make you so glad they found each other. Together they are medicine for each others soul, and we get quite a few laughs and smiles watching them fall in love.
The heat is also turned down a bit compared to past stories, but I didn't mind at all. Sex scenes are meant to advance the romance, and in this book they are PERFECTLY done. Laura's past trauma makes her unsure if she will ever enjoy sex again, so the exploration between these two to rediscover sexual passion was just as hot as any sex scene.
So overall this was a great story, I just wished it had more suspense intertwined and less time with Javier & Laura calmly relaxing so much. I guess I like a bit more suspense in my romance suspense reads.
Review also at Booklikes.com
November 13, 2013
4.5 Stars
“… if my whole world fell apart tomorrow, the piece I couldn't live without is you." (Laura to Javier)
There are so many aspects that I loved about this book, but one of my favorites would be the incredibly tender love story between Javi and Laura. Beginning with the prequel, First Strike, the reader comes away knowing their connection is much more than explosive sexual chemistry. Slowly throughout the story, their love blooms and by the end it dazzles.
When Laura and Javier departed from their three day, no-strings-attached weekend in Dubai, they each had thoughts of re-connecting. Thinking they had plenty of time, they put their feelings aside to pursue their immediate career responsibilities. But things don’t always work out according to plan, and soon tragedy strikes and everything changes.
Pamela Clare has once again crafted a captivating read. Her trademark of giving intelligence to both the MCs is one of the things I love most about her books. I know I’ve said this before but it’s rare to find a book where you love the hero and the heroine equally. Combine those qualities with passion and romance along with a thought provoking read and you have a winner.
She also knows how to write a hero! Javier “Cobra” Corbray is intense. He’s a luscious, fierce warrior. Not only does he have a magnificent, sinfully, delectable body, but he’s a man of character and grit. There wasn’t anything I didn’t love about him. His protectiveness and determination in keeping Laura safe is exactly how I like my heroes. But what really had me drooling is his devotion to helping Laura put the pieces of her life back together. Before her abduction, Laura was a sexually confident woman. Now, she’s broken and unsure if she’ll ever enjoy sex again. Javi has all kinds of delicious ways to help her and the patience of a man who likes to be in control in the bedroom is a beautiful thing to witness:)
Laura is one of the bravest heroines I’ve read. She’s also intelligent and strong. Her compassionate heart guides her journalistic reporting as she enlightens her audience on the corruption and evils being committed around the globe. While her story is painful, it’s also triumphant and I was rooting for her all the way. Although the subject matter is raw, there are enough fun and sexy times to balance the heartrending moments.
Striking Distance begins with an action-packed prologue that had me quickly turning the pages. As the dust settles, the action became slower paced and focused more on the relationship. The ending will tug on your heartstrings, so have plenty of tissue handy and the Epilogue given will fill you with happiness. A beautiful, emotional, suspenseful and romantic love story centered around healing. I loved it.
I highly recommend you read the prequel,
, before starting SD. While it’s not necessary, I think the reader will have a much better connection with the H/h.
“… if my whole world fell apart tomorrow, the piece I couldn't live without is you." (Laura to Javier)
There are so many aspects that I loved about this book, but one of my favorites would be the incredibly tender love story between Javi and Laura. Beginning with the prequel, First Strike, the reader comes away knowing their connection is much more than explosive sexual chemistry. Slowly throughout the story, their love blooms and by the end it dazzles.
When Laura and Javier departed from their three day, no-strings-attached weekend in Dubai, they each had thoughts of re-connecting. Thinking they had plenty of time, they put their feelings aside to pursue their immediate career responsibilities. But things don’t always work out according to plan, and soon tragedy strikes and everything changes.
Pamela Clare has once again crafted a captivating read. Her trademark of giving intelligence to both the MCs is one of the things I love most about her books. I know I’ve said this before but it’s rare to find a book where you love the hero and the heroine equally. Combine those qualities with passion and romance along with a thought provoking read and you have a winner.
She also knows how to write a hero! Javier “Cobra” Corbray is intense. He’s a luscious, fierce warrior. Not only does he have a magnificent, sinfully, delectable body, but he’s a man of character and grit. There wasn’t anything I didn’t love about him. His protectiveness and determination in keeping Laura safe is exactly how I like my heroes. But what really had me drooling is his devotion to helping Laura put the pieces of her life back together. Before her abduction, Laura was a sexually confident woman. Now, she’s broken and unsure if she’ll ever enjoy sex again. Javi has all kinds of delicious ways to help her and the patience of a man who likes to be in control in the bedroom is a beautiful thing to witness:)
Laura is one of the bravest heroines I’ve read. She’s also intelligent and strong. Her compassionate heart guides her journalistic reporting as she enlightens her audience on the corruption and evils being committed around the globe. While her story is painful, it’s also triumphant and I was rooting for her all the way. Although the subject matter is raw, there are enough fun and sexy times to balance the heartrending moments.
Striking Distance begins with an action-packed prologue that had me quickly turning the pages. As the dust settles, the action became slower paced and focused more on the relationship. The ending will tug on your heartstrings, so have plenty of tissue handy and the Epilogue given will fill you with happiness. A beautiful, emotional, suspenseful and romantic love story centered around healing. I loved it.
I highly recommend you read the prequel,
, before starting SD. While it’s not necessary, I think the reader will have a much better connection with the H/h.
July 25, 2016
Broadcast journalist Laura Nilsson was abducted by a ruthless terrorist while live on air. She spent 18 months in an Al Qaeda compound as the world thought she'd been beheaded. Her inadvertent rescue during a SEAL operation led by Javier Cobray to capture her abductor put her in the media front pages for months. Two years later and she's back in the spotlight for her abductor's trial and as someone is trying to kill her.
This was an incredibly emotional story with so many highs and lows. I loved Javier who is so honorable and passionate, never wavering in his loyalty and friendship with Laura. There were quite a few red herrings in this mystery and I must admit I hooked on a couple but nailed the right one even though I didn't know the motive.
There was a high level of authenticity regarding some of Laura's decisions, even though they weren't popular choices. This is one of the things I found most extraordinary about the story and I admired her and Javier for their courage. Kaleo Griffith's narration was put to the test to capture the strong emotions throughout the book and the language dialects (Swedish, Puerto Rican, Pakistani). His performance was stellar.
This was a tough story and extremely well written. Loved it.
This was an incredibly emotional story with so many highs and lows. I loved Javier who is so honorable and passionate, never wavering in his loyalty and friendship with Laura. There were quite a few red herrings in this mystery and I must admit I hooked on a couple but nailed the right one even though I didn't know the motive.
There was a high level of authenticity regarding some of Laura's decisions, even though they weren't popular choices. This is one of the things I found most extraordinary about the story and I admired her and Javier for their courage. Kaleo Griffith's narration was put to the test to capture the strong emotions throughout the book and the language dialects (Swedish, Puerto Rican, Pakistani). His performance was stellar.
This was a tough story and extremely well written. Loved it.
April 22, 2017
Otro libro con una historia y una acción crepitante, en éste caso el título le va al dedillo. Es una historia dura, pero quizás no tanto como imaginaba al principio. Durante los últimos libros Pamela Clare ha mantenido un gran suspense en todas sus novelas, llevando a los protagonistas a situaciones extremas y la necesidad de que salgan adelante.
Quizás lo que me ha decepcionado un poquillo es que esperaba que en el libro salieran escenas del fabuloso fin de semana en que Laura y Javier se conocieron, una vez empezado el libro me di cuenta de que hay un relato corto contándolo (y me tiré de los pelos) ¿No podía haberse incluido el relato en la novela?
Éste libro narra la historia de Laura y Javier, pero unos años después de conocerse. A las pocas semanas de su encuentro en Dubai, ella, que por entonces era corresponsal de guerra entre Pakistán y Afganistán fue secuestrada por un grupo terrorista. Estos hicieron creer al mundo que la habían matado, dos años después, Javier, jefe de pelotón de los SEALs entró en la guarida de los talibanes y descubrió que Laura seguía viva. Un par de años tras el rescate se celebra el juicio contra el cabecilla talibán y Laura testifica contra él, pero éste arremete y llama a la yihad contra ella.
A partir de aquí entra el debido acoso. Laura se ha trasladado a Denver y ha conseguido trabajo en el periódico del Equipo I, pero un coche bomba bajo la redacción creará un despliegue de seguridad sobre Laura, y la posterior investigación para averiguar quién está tras los ataques. Aquí es donde entra Javier, un hombre íntegro, duro y honorable que nunca olvidó a Laura. Está en Denver recuperándose de sus heridas y vuelve a coincidir con Laura mientras visita a su amigo Nate West (también tengo que conocer su historia y la de Megan). Debido a los recientes ataques contra Laura, se persona como su guardaespaldas y no la dejará ni a sol ni a sombra, y así es cómo irá surgiendo de nuevo el amor entre ellos.
No conocí su primer encuentro, pero parece ser que fue un fin de semana de locura sin ataduras. Aún así les afectó lo suficiente como para no haberse olvidado, y años después cuando se encuentran en éstas duras circunstancias, volverá a surgir una historia entre ellos.
Si hay algo que me ha gustado es el amor, la paciencia y el respeto con que Javier trata a Laura, me ha encantado. El secuestro de Laura fue muy duro y brutal, le dejó unas heridas muy profundas, y Javier la ayudará a ganar de nuevo confianza en sí misma y a recuperar su vida.
La historia ha tenido un magnífico tandem entre suspense/investigación e historia romántica. Me ha gustado muchísimo, pero también hay algunas cosas que me han chocado o no me han terminado de cerrar, no me ha gustado más que los anteriores, pero sí ha sido un muy buen libro, y ha tenido un epílogo precioso.
Mi siguiente tarea será leer los relatos cortos anteriores a éste libro, y a la larga y si me atrevo, leerme el libro de Holly para ver cómo termina la serie.
Quizás lo que me ha decepcionado un poquillo es que esperaba que en el libro salieran escenas del fabuloso fin de semana en que Laura y Javier se conocieron, una vez empezado el libro me di cuenta de que hay un relato corto contándolo (y me tiré de los pelos) ¿No podía haberse incluido el relato en la novela?
Éste libro narra la historia de Laura y Javier, pero unos años después de conocerse. A las pocas semanas de su encuentro en Dubai, ella, que por entonces era corresponsal de guerra entre Pakistán y Afganistán fue secuestrada por un grupo terrorista. Estos hicieron creer al mundo que la habían matado, dos años después, Javier, jefe de pelotón de los SEALs entró en la guarida de los talibanes y descubrió que Laura seguía viva. Un par de años tras el rescate se celebra el juicio contra el cabecilla talibán y Laura testifica contra él, pero éste arremete y llama a la yihad contra ella.
A partir de aquí entra el debido acoso. Laura se ha trasladado a Denver y ha conseguido trabajo en el periódico del Equipo I, pero un coche bomba bajo la redacción creará un despliegue de seguridad sobre Laura, y la posterior investigación para averiguar quién está tras los ataques. Aquí es donde entra Javier, un hombre íntegro, duro y honorable que nunca olvidó a Laura. Está en Denver recuperándose de sus heridas y vuelve a coincidir con Laura mientras visita a su amigo Nate West (también tengo que conocer su historia y la de Megan). Debido a los recientes ataques contra Laura, se persona como su guardaespaldas y no la dejará ni a sol ni a sombra, y así es cómo irá surgiendo de nuevo el amor entre ellos.
No conocí su primer encuentro, pero parece ser que fue un fin de semana de locura sin ataduras. Aún así les afectó lo suficiente como para no haberse olvidado, y años después cuando se encuentran en éstas duras circunstancias, volverá a surgir una historia entre ellos.
Si hay algo que me ha gustado es el amor, la paciencia y el respeto con que Javier trata a Laura, me ha encantado. El secuestro de Laura fue muy duro y brutal, le dejó unas heridas muy profundas, y Javier la ayudará a ganar de nuevo confianza en sí misma y a recuperar su vida.
La historia ha tenido un magnífico tandem entre suspense/investigación e historia romántica. Me ha gustado muchísimo, pero también hay algunas cosas que me han chocado o no me han terminado de cerrar, no me ha gustado más que los anteriores, pero sí ha sido un muy buen libro, y ha tenido un epílogo precioso.
Mi siguiente tarea será leer los relatos cortos anteriores a éste libro, y a la larga y si me atrevo, leerme el libro de Holly para ver cómo termina la serie.
June 28, 2015
The sixth addition to Pamela Clare's incredible I-Team series. Javier Corbray is a Navy SEAL and, on a mission to capture a terrorist, he rescues Laura Nilsson, the "Baghdad Babe". A reporter the world believed to be dead. Javier first met Laura in Dubai City while on vacation. Fast forward two years and we find Javier in Colorado visiting his SEAL buddy, Nate West. He discovers that Laura is now working with the I-Team in Denver. Laura, in the meantime, has just testified against the terrorist who kidnapped her and is struggling to get her life back. When Laura's life is being threatened, Javier steps up to protect her.
It is my opinion that readers will benefit from reading the prequel First Strike first. It describes the meeting of Javier and Laura and gives a glimpse into who they are. However, if the erotic novella isn't your thing then you will most likely be able to enjoy Striking Distance without it.
Another incredible read by Ms Clare. The story keeps you guessing and keeps you reading. We are treated to revisits from many characters from previous additions of the series. I highly recommend to romantic suspense readers everywhere.
If you're already a Pamela Clare fan, or interested in learning more about her and her books, be sure to stop by our Pamela Clare Fan Group here on Goodreads!
It is my opinion that readers will benefit from reading the prequel First Strike first. It describes the meeting of Javier and Laura and gives a glimpse into who they are. However, if the erotic novella isn't your thing then you will most likely be able to enjoy Striking Distance without it.
Another incredible read by Ms Clare. The story keeps you guessing and keeps you reading. We are treated to revisits from many characters from previous additions of the series. I highly recommend to romantic suspense readers everywhere.
If you're already a Pamela Clare fan, or interested in learning more about her and her books, be sure to stop by our Pamela Clare Fan Group here on Goodreads!
July 14, 2014
5 stars – Romantic Suspense
I’m an avid Pamela Clare fan, and I love and respect everything she writes. And although this was certainly no exception to that, it was an emotionally devastating, somewhat depressing, and difficult read at times. I actually had to take a break in the middle and read a fun, lighthearted Jill Shalvis romance, Rumor Has It, for a breather.
Javier...He’s such an amazing, sigh-worthy, swoonalicious hero with a sexy, potent combination of alpha badass, lethal warrior, macho Boricua male, and devoted, thoughtful, patient, tender, compassionate, sensitive, caring, attentive friend and lover.
The ending was bittersweet and had me shedding some serious tears. This isn’t my favorite I-Team story, but it’s still a great, powerful read.
I’m an avid Pamela Clare fan, and I love and respect everything she writes. And although this was certainly no exception to that, it was an emotionally devastating, somewhat depressing, and difficult read at times. I actually had to take a break in the middle and read a fun, lighthearted Jill Shalvis romance, Rumor Has It, for a breather.
Javier...He’s such an amazing, sigh-worthy, swoonalicious hero with a sexy, potent combination of alpha badass, lethal warrior, macho Boricua male, and devoted, thoughtful, patient, tender, compassionate, sensitive, caring, attentive friend and lover.
The ending was bittersweet and had me shedding some serious tears. This isn’t my favorite I-Team story, but it’s still a great, powerful read.
March 31, 2015
I recommend reading First Strike, the erotica novella prequel, before reading this book. It’s a deliciously short and sexy story that gives us a glimpse into Javier and Laura’s no-strings attached weekend in Duboi City. This novella ends with a bang and the story continues in Striking Distance. It may be short but it’s pretty darn good. And it’s only 99 pennies!
Striking Distance opens up with Javier Corbray, a special OPs Navy SEAL, on a mission to capture a terrorist. The mission is going according to plan when he discovers Laura Nilsson, the woman known as the “Baghdad Babe”, and the same woman he had a passionate weekend with in Dubai City, had been held captive the entire time everyone in the world believed she was dead. This prestigious reporter’s life has been forever changed. She’s a survivor who has been broken mentally and physically and has a long, hard road of healing ahead of her.
Two years later, Javier is in on leave after one of his missions went terribly wrong and he was injured. While recuperating, he goes to Colorado to visit his SEAL buddy, Nate West, and his family. Laura, in the meantime, continues to struggle to get her life back together. She works for the I-Team in Denver and is preparing to testify against the terrorist who kidnapped and terrorized her. Javier never truly got over Laura, so when they see each other for the first time, the explosive chemistry that was intense the first time they met is still there simmering under the surface. But Laura is not the same vibrant, passionate woman she once was, though she still very much feels something strong towards Javier as well. When Laura’s life is threatened, Javier, ever the protector, goes to Denver to make sure she’s safe and to act as her bodyguard. What follows is a suspenseful and romantic story as Javier, the FBI, and Zach McBride (U.S. Marshall) investigate to find out who wants Laura dead.
During the time Javier stays with Laura, they are given the opportunity to explore what could’ve been between them before Laura was captured. For eighteen months, Laura had been beaten, raped, and threatened to be beheaded on a daily basis. She was treated like a slave and almost forgot who she was. Her healing journey has been slow. Javier plays a pivotal role in helping her down her path of healing. He is so damn sexy and sultry with his Puerto Rican good looks, big heart, and alpha protectiveness. He becomes Laura own personal hero in every way possible. Javier’s also dealing with his own issues ever since the mission that went bad. These two are very strong, compassionate, and intelligent people who have been broken emotionally and feel vulnerable. Together, they support each other and give the other exactly what’s been missing in their lives.
“I would do anything for you, bella.” – Javier
The romance between these two is beautiful with a perfect slow, sensual build. Considering what Laura has been through, anything too fast would’ve felt unrealistic. I love how Javier takes his time with Laura. Being that Javier is used to being dominant in the bedroom, it was heart-melting to see this potent man let Laura take charge in the bedroom, when she needed to be the one to take instead of being taken from. I felt a magnitude of emotions as Javier and Laura reconnected intimately. When Laura finally finds the courage to give herself to Javier, it was loaded with heat and passion. I think this might be one of the most romantic stories in the I-Team series that Pamela Clare has written to date.
“I was just thinking how lucky I am. The man I’ve held in my heart as my hero for the past two years, the man I’ve for every night – he turned out to be the man I love.” - Laura
Ms. Clare’s stories are always spot on with her deft and smart plotting. I thought the romance aspect to the story was a little bit more of the focus this time around, though the mystery and danger was always prevalent and continued to keep me guessing who the culprit was. The pacing does lull just a bit in the middle of the book, but it doesn’t take long for the pacing to pick back up. And the ending to this story absolutely slayed my heart, it was so incredibly emotional and touching.
Striking Distance is titillating and intense and another great edition to the I-Team series. This is a great series for romantic suspense lovers. These books are intelligent and well-written with smart and sexy characters. Each one of the I-Team books can be read as a stand-alone, but I’ve had a good time reading each of them. One of the things I like the most about this series is how Ms. Clare always brings back previous characters and includes them within the storyline. I was very happy to get page time with Marc, Julian, and Zach. You really don’t want to miss meeting Julian, another utterly sexy alpha hero that will melt your panties.
Rating: B+
Heat: Hot
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
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October 11, 2015
Another Excellent Addition to the I-Team Series
In this sixth novel of Pamela Clare's gripping romantic suspense series, heroine Laura Nilsson doesn't start as a reporter on Denver's investigative I-Team (like the preceding heroines), but she ends up as one. Her initial career is to serve as star TV reporter on the military conflict in Afghanistan, but that career gets ripped to shreds when Al-Qaeda kidnaps her.
Navy SEAL Javier Corbray is devastated when terrorists nab the gorgeous reporter. They'd spent a steamy weekend together in Dubai (in the novella First Strike) and he had hoped to reconnect with her, but it's highly unlikely she has survived the brutal capture. But over a year later, Javier's unit pursues a mission to take down a key terrorist deep in the heart of Afghanistan, and it appears Laura just may be alive.
I liked the realistic portrayal of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in this story. Laura's got it, and so does Javier (though he won't admit it). Here Laura interviews a veteran of the war, with Javier listening in:
"I know it's difficult to talk about this, but it would really help my readers understand the issue better if you could describe for me what you're experiencing--the nightmares, the flashbacks, the anger you feel."
Nightmares.
Flashbacks.
Anger.
The words hit Javier, sent ripples through him.
Knock it off, cabrón.
He did NOT have PTSD.
Think again, cabrón. ;-) But Javier is masterful at helping Laura heal from her trauma demons. When the standard "It's not your fault" doesn't break through her self-blame, he switches tactics:
"Okay, fine. It's your fault -- all of it. Why don't you explain to me what you should've done before?"
Of course she has no answer to that.
Laura is such a kind person. I was astounded when she visits the family of a Arab boy accused of trying to murder her. While I agree with the fact that the vast majority of Arabs are not violent, it's almost hard to believe she can find forgiveness in her heart to visit the grieving parents. But her keen investigative sense helps unravel the mystery of who really is trying to kill her.
Javi is a doll. I think Latino men are damn sexy, and he definitely fits the bill. He's strong AND sweet, and it's adorable that the career SEAL doesn't know how to tie a tie. He is fiercely protective of Laura but doesn't act like an overbearing caveman. He respects her intelligence and independence.
It's clear I LOVE this author with her winsome characters and intriguing plots. As I said in my review of First Strike, I highly encourage you to read this series!
In this sixth novel of Pamela Clare's gripping romantic suspense series, heroine Laura Nilsson doesn't start as a reporter on Denver's investigative I-Team (like the preceding heroines), but she ends up as one. Her initial career is to serve as star TV reporter on the military conflict in Afghanistan, but that career gets ripped to shreds when Al-Qaeda kidnaps her.
Navy SEAL Javier Corbray is devastated when terrorists nab the gorgeous reporter. They'd spent a steamy weekend together in Dubai (in the novella First Strike) and he had hoped to reconnect with her, but it's highly unlikely she has survived the brutal capture. But over a year later, Javier's unit pursues a mission to take down a key terrorist deep in the heart of Afghanistan, and it appears Laura just may be alive.
I liked the realistic portrayal of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in this story. Laura's got it, and so does Javier (though he won't admit it). Here Laura interviews a veteran of the war, with Javier listening in:
"I know it's difficult to talk about this, but it would really help my readers understand the issue better if you could describe for me what you're experiencing--the nightmares, the flashbacks, the anger you feel."
Nightmares.
Flashbacks.
Anger.
The words hit Javier, sent ripples through him.
Knock it off, cabrón.
He did NOT have PTSD.
Think again, cabrón. ;-) But Javier is masterful at helping Laura heal from her trauma demons. When the standard "It's not your fault" doesn't break through her self-blame, he switches tactics:
"Okay, fine. It's your fault -- all of it. Why don't you explain to me what you should've done before?"
Of course she has no answer to that.
Laura is such a kind person. I was astounded when she visits the family of a Arab boy accused of trying to murder her. While I agree with the fact that the vast majority of Arabs are not violent, it's almost hard to believe she can find forgiveness in her heart to visit the grieving parents. But her keen investigative sense helps unravel the mystery of who really is trying to kill her.
Javi is a doll. I think Latino men are damn sexy, and he definitely fits the bill. He's strong AND sweet, and it's adorable that the career SEAL doesn't know how to tie a tie. He is fiercely protective of Laura but doesn't act like an overbearing caveman. He respects her intelligence and independence.
It's clear I LOVE this author with her winsome characters and intriguing plots. As I said in my review of First Strike, I highly encourage you to read this series!
November 9, 2013
2.5 STARS
And boy, was the pain brought.
TO ME.
Because to put it simply, no romantic suspense book with as dull and bland main characters as Laura and Javier, should be as long as this one. That was my main beef against it. I think there was a point in the book where Laura enumerated three dresses she WAS NOT going to wear (and you know how detailed dress descriptions can get in contemporary romance) … and I nearly chucked this to my growing DNF pile at 65%-ish.
I was THAT bored.
First thing's first, I haven't been reading as much Romantic Suspense as I used to these past few months, but I've been looking forward to this book because, while as a whole The I-Team Series was pretty uneven, when it was good it can be pretty good. But when it was dull… well, it can be Gabe and Kat's book or… well, it could be this.
This started with Laura Nilssen getting ambushed by a terrorist group in Afghanistan while reporting live on national TV. Everyone has proclaimed her dead, including Javier Corbray, the Navy SEAL operative she spent a no-strings-attached, mind-blowing week of sex with in Dubai a few months back. While doing a covert operation to take down Al-Qaeda separatist Abu Nayef Al-Nassar, Javier finds and rescues Laura as a prisoner in the rebel's compound. Burdened with the guilt of a secret, Laura finds her way back to US soil, rebuilding her life by working with the I-Team and testifying against Al-Nassar in his trial… among other things. Also burdened with a different kind of guilt, Javier also finds himself in Colorado after being severely injured in a deployment that has left him questioning the kind of life that he leads. He somehow ends up protecting Laura from the imminent threat of her profession as a hardcore journalist and terrorist threat.
I think a big part of my disappointment with this installment can be blamed on the novella. Because at the end of First Strike I did not feel any curiosity towards either main characters, I felt both were severely underdeveloped and the plot was padded with too much erotica without successfully laying a solid foundation for Laura and Javier's relationship. Neither came out likable in this book and ether was a sense of confused emotional turmoil in both protagonists. Should I really be concerned that Javier can't tell Laura that he was the one who rescued her in the compound? Should I really care if Laura and made no claims of feeling otherwise as the story progressed? It felt like their relationship was based solely on mind-blowing sex (and unrelatable childhood memories of frogs O.o)… which is fine, but something I'm not terribly interested to read a 300-page book about. As it is, it was so hard to root for either of them that the supposed climactic admission of love just left me apathetic.
I do see what Clare was trying to paint Laura as: a strong, intelligent, sexually confident woman broken by her incarceration and how she would pick up and finds herself in the midst of all that trauma. And this book is asking me to like her while suspending my disbelief one too many times:
I mean, I accept that romantic suspense as a genre tends to bend a lot of rules of logic but some of those were just plain ridiculous.
And speaking of ridiculous, the cliches on this one just… I can't seem to remember this being an issue in the previous books because I would have made a note of it, but the racial cliches, particularly pertaining to Javier as a Puerto Rican hero was just phenomenally… there. Look, I don't need the guy to cuss in Spanish to cut across that he's a hot Latino alpha male.These things usually doesn't bother me but it was repeatedly hammered, page after page. The hero's Puerto Rican! Okay! I get it! He doesn't have to play the guitar, or make Boricua coffee with burritos for breakfast or have him come from a large matriarchal family or play Latino music while they dance or after having sex.
Or have his PTSD suddenly cured by the powers of magic vagina... Oh wait, that wasn't a racial cliché. It was just a cliché.
Why can't they have a romantic dinner date while dancing to traditional Swedish songs? As a woman, I would have appreciated that better, if he took the time out and researched MY heritage and not rely on the preconceived charms of his own.
I did like how Laura's issues were handled in the end (yes, even if Javier's stunt was beyond belief) It was quite unique and something that I don't often see as a resolution. Though I wish that aspect was left alone and not resolved further in the Epilogue. The dialogue tended to get clunky and there was more Julian-Marc banter here. I missed Marc's snarky harassing of Gabe but I will take my Marc Hunter anyway I can get him.
As a romantic suspense book, it was pretty decent and I would probably still have some curiosity for the next books. I'd probably recommend reading this first before getting the novella. Speaking of… if anyone deserves a novella, Marc and Sophie's would definitely be an auto-buy for me.
Because that would be YA/NA.
And Pamela Clare writing YA/NA would certainly be something that would pique my interest.
Also on BookLikes.
"I-I think… you should run… while you can."
Listen to her, pendejo.
Javier made his decision, his muscles tensing.
It was time to bring the pain.
And boy, was the pain brought.
TO ME.
Because to put it simply, no romantic suspense book with as dull and bland main characters as Laura and Javier, should be as long as this one. That was my main beef against it. I think there was a point in the book where Laura enumerated three dresses she WAS NOT going to wear (and you know how detailed dress descriptions can get in contemporary romance) … and I nearly chucked this to my growing DNF pile at 65%-ish.
I was THAT bored.
First thing's first, I haven't been reading as much Romantic Suspense as I used to these past few months, but I've been looking forward to this book because, while as a whole The I-Team Series was pretty uneven, when it was good it can be pretty good. But when it was dull… well, it can be Gabe and Kat's book or… well, it could be this.
This started with Laura Nilssen getting ambushed by a terrorist group in Afghanistan while reporting live on national TV. Everyone has proclaimed her dead, including Javier Corbray, the Navy SEAL operative she spent a no-strings-attached, mind-blowing week of sex with in Dubai a few months back. While doing a covert operation to take down Al-Qaeda separatist Abu Nayef Al-Nassar, Javier finds and rescues Laura as a prisoner in the rebel's compound. Burdened with the guilt of a secret, Laura finds her way back to US soil, rebuilding her life by working with the I-Team and testifying against Al-Nassar in his trial… among other things. Also burdened with a different kind of guilt, Javier also finds himself in Colorado after being severely injured in a deployment that has left him questioning the kind of life that he leads. He somehow ends up protecting Laura from the imminent threat of her profession as a hardcore journalist and terrorist threat.
I think a big part of my disappointment with this installment can be blamed on the novella. Because at the end of First Strike I did not feel any curiosity towards either main characters, I felt both were severely underdeveloped and the plot was padded with too much erotica without successfully laying a solid foundation for Laura and Javier's relationship. Neither came out likable in this book and ether was a sense of confused emotional turmoil in both protagonists. Should I really be concerned that Javier can't tell Laura that he was the one who rescued her in the compound? Should I really care if Laura and made no claims of feeling otherwise as the story progressed? It felt like their relationship was based solely on mind-blowing sex (and unrelatable childhood memories of frogs O.o)… which is fine, but something I'm not terribly interested to read a 300-page book about. As it is, it was so hard to root for either of them that the supposed climactic admission of love just left me apathetic.
I do see what Clare was trying to paint Laura as: a strong, intelligent, sexually confident woman broken by her incarceration and how she would pick up and finds herself in the midst of all that trauma. And this book is asking me to like her while suspending my disbelief one too many times:
✽ Because she was held captive, terrorized for so long, despite being an educated woman, a freaking journalist no less, Striking Distance says this is entirely possible. Uh, okay.
✽ including, but not limited to, foreplay. Dude, you're Scandinavian, those would hardly be noticeable unless Javier's a dermatologist.
✽ That without her, the FBI wouldn't have found that clue to clear Ali Al Zharani. Please.
I mean, I accept that romantic suspense as a genre tends to bend a lot of rules of logic but some of those were just plain ridiculous.
And speaking of ridiculous, the cliches on this one just… I can't seem to remember this being an issue in the previous books because I would have made a note of it, but the racial cliches, particularly pertaining to Javier as a Puerto Rican hero was just phenomenally… there. Look, I don't need the guy to cuss in Spanish to cut across that he's a hot Latino alpha male.These things usually doesn't bother me but it was repeatedly hammered, page after page. The hero's Puerto Rican! Okay! I get it! He doesn't have to play the guitar, or make Boricua coffee with burritos for breakfast or have him come from a large matriarchal family or play Latino music while they dance or after having sex.
Laura and Javier held fast to each other, their bodies slick with sweat, as he carried her to the bed. Javier got his guitar, and, still naked, played for her, singing romantic love songs to her in Spanish, his voice deep and smooth. Then, contented and replete, they kissed each other to sleep.
Or have his PTSD suddenly cured by the powers of magic vagina... Oh wait, that wasn't a racial cliché. It was just a cliché.
Why can't they have a romantic dinner date while dancing to traditional Swedish songs? As a woman, I would have appreciated that better, if he took the time out and researched MY heritage and not rely on the preconceived charms of his own.
I did like how Laura's issues were handled in the end (yes, even if Javier's stunt was beyond belief) It was quite unique and something that I don't often see as a resolution. Though I wish that aspect was left alone and not resolved further in the Epilogue. The dialogue tended to get clunky and there was more Julian-Marc banter here. I missed Marc's snarky harassing of Gabe but I will take my Marc Hunter anyway I can get him.
As a romantic suspense book, it was pretty decent and I would probably still have some curiosity for the next books. I'd probably recommend reading this first before getting the novella. Speaking of… if anyone deserves a novella, Marc and Sophie's would definitely be an auto-buy for me.
Because that would be YA/NA.
And Pamela Clare writing YA/NA would certainly be something that would pique my interest.
Also on BookLikes.
November 12, 2013
I was so excited to start reading Striking Distance by Pamela Clare because I just love her I-Team Series. I have read all of them except 1.5 (which I will read soon) and for me each book is great! I have always enjoyed her style of writing and her stories always grabs a hold of me right from the beginning and doesn’t let go until the very last page.
Laura and Javier’s story deals with some tough subject matters that will break your heart and take you on emotional journey that will have you in tears. I know it did for me. However, it is also about strength and resolve. We see how determination, devotion and love can carry you through anything that life throws your way.
Before I continue, I would strongly suggest that you read First Strike before starting this book. First Strike gives you the background to how Javier and Laura meet and you will better understand their connection in Striking Distance.
The book begins with the rescue of Laura. As part of the rescue mission, Javier is shocked to find that Laura is still alive. Laura doesn’t recognize him their time together is short. Both lives continue. Laura is trying to heal after what she has had to endure and Javier was back to being a Seal. Laura is unaware that her angel, the man who saved her from her living hell, was Javier.
Time has passed and Laura is living the best way she can. She is trying to rebuild her life and move on. When most would hide away, Laura is fighting back. She is strong, kindhearted and extremely courageous. I just loved her! And as fate would have it Javier and Laura’s paths cross again.
When Javier and Laura are reunited, it is once again under circumstances that will challenge both of them. Laura is being threatened and someone is out to hurt her. Javier has not forgotten the passion they had shared and the look in her eyes the day she was rescued and knows without doubt that he needs to be the person to protect her.
Laura and Javier go through a lot. Each of them is tested. Laura had to learn to accept Javier’s willingness to protect her. She also had to learn to let him love her. The 18 months that Laura was kept captive was brutal. As the story reveals what happened to her my heart broke for her. She went through hell. It was not easy for her to become passionate again with Javier. But Javier was incredible. He gently and tenderly brought her back. I loved how he showed her in many sexual ways how he adored her and adored her body. Every time they kissed, touched and savored each my heart did a few things. It beat rapidly and then melted!
Of course, there is suspense, narrow escapes and what the hell moments. As things slowly start to become known and the pieces are coming together, I was certainly surprised with who was behind everything. I loved having the other I-Team members in this book to. They all add to the craziness of what is going on.
And there is a side story too. This too broke my heart but I loved how it was weaved into the story and how it played out. It was just perfect. Laura was just an incredible person. She had so much courage and strength.
I just loved everything about this book. Of course, the epilogue was great! Everything came full circle.
One of my favorite quotes:
“I couldn't have gotten through any of this without you. Through all of it, you've been my support, my anchor. I don't know how one man's shoulders can possibly be so strong."
He tilted her face up to his. "With the love I feel for you, bella, I could lift up the world.”
Laura and Javier’s story deals with some tough subject matters that will break your heart and take you on emotional journey that will have you in tears. I know it did for me. However, it is also about strength and resolve. We see how determination, devotion and love can carry you through anything that life throws your way.
Before I continue, I would strongly suggest that you read First Strike before starting this book. First Strike gives you the background to how Javier and Laura meet and you will better understand their connection in Striking Distance.
The book begins with the rescue of Laura. As part of the rescue mission, Javier is shocked to find that Laura is still alive. Laura doesn’t recognize him their time together is short. Both lives continue. Laura is trying to heal after what she has had to endure and Javier was back to being a Seal. Laura is unaware that her angel, the man who saved her from her living hell, was Javier.
Time has passed and Laura is living the best way she can. She is trying to rebuild her life and move on. When most would hide away, Laura is fighting back. She is strong, kindhearted and extremely courageous. I just loved her! And as fate would have it Javier and Laura’s paths cross again.
When Javier and Laura are reunited, it is once again under circumstances that will challenge both of them. Laura is being threatened and someone is out to hurt her. Javier has not forgotten the passion they had shared and the look in her eyes the day she was rescued and knows without doubt that he needs to be the person to protect her.
Laura and Javier go through a lot. Each of them is tested. Laura had to learn to accept Javier’s willingness to protect her. She also had to learn to let him love her. The 18 months that Laura was kept captive was brutal. As the story reveals what happened to her my heart broke for her. She went through hell. It was not easy for her to become passionate again with Javier. But Javier was incredible. He gently and tenderly brought her back. I loved how he showed her in many sexual ways how he adored her and adored her body. Every time they kissed, touched and savored each my heart did a few things. It beat rapidly and then melted!
Of course, there is suspense, narrow escapes and what the hell moments. As things slowly start to become known and the pieces are coming together, I was certainly surprised with who was behind everything. I loved having the other I-Team members in this book to. They all add to the craziness of what is going on.
And there is a side story too. This too broke my heart but I loved how it was weaved into the story and how it played out. It was just perfect. Laura was just an incredible person. She had so much courage and strength.
I just loved everything about this book. Of course, the epilogue was great! Everything came full circle.
One of my favorite quotes:
“I couldn't have gotten through any of this without you. Through all of it, you've been my support, my anchor. I don't know how one man's shoulders can possibly be so strong."
He tilted her face up to his. "With the love I feel for you, bella, I could lift up the world.”
October 8, 2013
This book is another excellent addition to Clare's excellent romantic suspense series. Very timely, with a balanced view of the current situation regarding Jihadist terrorism going on in the world today. Spicy and emotional.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
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If you've enjoyed any of Pamela Clare's books and you want to talk with other readers of her books, check out the Pamela Clare Fan Group on Goodreads.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
------------------
If you've enjoyed any of Pamela Clare's books and you want to talk with other readers of her books, check out the Pamela Clare Fan Group on Goodreads.
October 22, 2013
What a thrill ride! I'm a big fan of the I-Team series and that continues with this installment-- action-packed and sexy, but also a very emotional read. (Yep, I shed a few tears.) I highly recommend this one, as well as the prequel novella, FIRST STRIKE.
December 4, 2020
5 Stars (But honestly it is so much more than that!)
Javier Corbray has worked very hard to get where he is now. He is leading of a group of SEALs on a mission to capture Abu Nayef Al-Nassar, a Saudi national who is the leader of an al Qaeda splinter group operating in northwestern Pakistan. The United States wants him captured because he has orchestrated many attacks against United States citizens; Javier wants him because of what he did to Laura. Javier and Laura shared an intimate weekend; both agreed to no strings however Javier’s heart didn’t get the message. He had intentions of contacting Laura when the unthinkable happened. Laura was kidnapped; Al-Nassar claimed responsibility and that he killed her. Their mission accomplished, Javier is returning to the helo when he hears,”H-help me….I’m…I’m an American too!”
Laura is now tied with Natalie as my favorite ITeam heroine. The abuse she suffered - physical, sexual and psychological, is more than I can comprehend. She is strong and determined. She will find a way to build her life again, and she will go back to what she loves journalism. As all ITeam members she is great at her job. She is aware that her past makes her a target but she is determined to use her skills and voice to help. Laura is unwavering in her determination to take back her career, however she is unsure on how to work on the personal relationships in her life.
“I can think of a thousand ways to make love to you bella, a thousand ways to satisfy you. Forget about everything but us. Just let me touch you.”
Laura and Javier are wonderful characters separately but together they are a very special couple. Because of their earlier connection you feel the chemistry immediately and there is a deep love. They know that life is precious and even though they promised no strings, they each left their weekend in Dubai hoping to reconnect, only to have that hope extinguished when Laura was kidnapped. Their hearts have realized this new chance is something rare and should not be squandered. Can Laura ever be with someone intimately again? Javier is the perfect man to help her find that part of herself. Where First Strike was filled with ultra steamy scenes; Striking Distance is filled with scenes that are both steamy and sensual. In Dubai they were both active in finding mutual satisfaction; in Denver Javier is determined to help Laura allow herself to feel again. Javier is brave, honorable and sexy as sin in this book. He holds regrets deep in his heart that only Laura can help heal. It is fitting that Nate is his best friend, as they are very similar to the core.
This book is about a lot more than two former lovers finding each other again. Within the first six chapters I laughed, I cried and my heart raced. Danger and deep emotion made me turn the pages. Laura has a lifetime slot on a terrorist kill list, but she refuses to let that shape her life. There are many times where Laura could have made a decision that could have been easier for her to handle emotionally but she is determined to do what is right, not what is easy. I myself find her choices both heartbreaking and courageous.
I have been blessed to have finally read the book that took a place in my heart a year ago. And I will tell you this book is more incredible than I ever anticipated. I don’t know how she does it but Pamela Clare books just keep on getting better. Out of the over 100 books I have read in 2013 – this is my number one – my favorite. One I will re-read again and again. I plan on getting the audiobook read by Kaleo Griffith for my iPod on release day too.
I received this book from Pamela Clare in exchange for my honest review; however it is pre-ordered on my Nook where it will live on my Home Page with all my other Pamela Clare ITeam favorites.
INCREDIBLE! Pre-order now!
Javier Corbray has worked very hard to get where he is now. He is leading of a group of SEALs on a mission to capture Abu Nayef Al-Nassar, a Saudi national who is the leader of an al Qaeda splinter group operating in northwestern Pakistan. The United States wants him captured because he has orchestrated many attacks against United States citizens; Javier wants him because of what he did to Laura. Javier and Laura shared an intimate weekend; both agreed to no strings however Javier’s heart didn’t get the message. He had intentions of contacting Laura when the unthinkable happened. Laura was kidnapped; Al-Nassar claimed responsibility and that he killed her. Their mission accomplished, Javier is returning to the helo when he hears,”H-help me….I’m…I’m an American too!”
Laura is now tied with Natalie as my favorite ITeam heroine. The abuse she suffered - physical, sexual and psychological, is more than I can comprehend. She is strong and determined. She will find a way to build her life again, and she will go back to what she loves journalism. As all ITeam members she is great at her job. She is aware that her past makes her a target but she is determined to use her skills and voice to help. Laura is unwavering in her determination to take back her career, however she is unsure on how to work on the personal relationships in her life.
“I can think of a thousand ways to make love to you bella, a thousand ways to satisfy you. Forget about everything but us. Just let me touch you.”
Laura and Javier are wonderful characters separately but together they are a very special couple. Because of their earlier connection you feel the chemistry immediately and there is a deep love. They know that life is precious and even though they promised no strings, they each left their weekend in Dubai hoping to reconnect, only to have that hope extinguished when Laura was kidnapped. Their hearts have realized this new chance is something rare and should not be squandered. Can Laura ever be with someone intimately again? Javier is the perfect man to help her find that part of herself. Where First Strike was filled with ultra steamy scenes; Striking Distance is filled with scenes that are both steamy and sensual. In Dubai they were both active in finding mutual satisfaction; in Denver Javier is determined to help Laura allow herself to feel again. Javier is brave, honorable and sexy as sin in this book. He holds regrets deep in his heart that only Laura can help heal. It is fitting that Nate is his best friend, as they are very similar to the core.
This book is about a lot more than two former lovers finding each other again. Within the first six chapters I laughed, I cried and my heart raced. Danger and deep emotion made me turn the pages. Laura has a lifetime slot on a terrorist kill list, but she refuses to let that shape her life. There are many times where Laura could have made a decision that could have been easier for her to handle emotionally but she is determined to do what is right, not what is easy. I myself find her choices both heartbreaking and courageous.
I have been blessed to have finally read the book that took a place in my heart a year ago. And I will tell you this book is more incredible than I ever anticipated. I don’t know how she does it but Pamela Clare books just keep on getting better. Out of the over 100 books I have read in 2013 – this is my number one – my favorite. One I will re-read again and again. I plan on getting the audiobook read by Kaleo Griffith for my iPod on release day too.
I received this book from Pamela Clare in exchange for my honest review; however it is pre-ordered on my Nook where it will live on my Home Page with all my other Pamela Clare ITeam favorites.
INCREDIBLE! Pre-order now!
November 7, 2013
If you’re considering reading Striking Distance and you haven’t yet read First Strike, do that. It’s a short story prologue to SD and it’s only 99 cents. Well worth it as it’s a fantastic short that’s really sexy and romantic.
And having read First Strike, the poignancy of Striking Distance will be even more acute. Both main characters are powerfully damaged and, surprisingly, the female lead is actually emotionally and mentally healthier at the beginning of this story than the hero is. Unexpected once you know what’s happened to her in the time since First Strike’s ending but she’s been working at it while he hasn’t. But her recovery is only slightly further along than his, and this couple does a great job of healing each other with every scene.
The first 50% of the book is very atypical of the I-Team series (which has become, in my opinion, one of the absolute top romantic suspense series published today), and I think fans might feel a bit put off. It’s dark. It’s nuts and bolts. It has a pall of tragedy and horror even as there’s light and recovery visible throughout. It felt sort of like a procedural, if that makes any sense.
After the halfway mark, the story shifts and feels much more like the I-Team tale we’re used to. The romance, the sexy playfulness, the great friendships. It’s all there. But the problems introduced in the beginning are not problems that have easy solutions. Sure, PC could have waved her magic writer’s wand and come up with a paper-thin scenario that would have made it all perfect, but she didn’t. Some may feel that makes the HEA more bitter than sweet, but I disagree. I appreciated the HEA far more for the realism. These are characters who could have been seen as victims, but they just won’t stay down. I really appreciated that. Ugh, I realize that sounds like there wasn’t an HEA when there absolutely is. You’ll have to read for yourself to see what I’m talking about because I don’t want to spoil anything.
Javier and Laura are a lovely couple who put others above themselves time and again, which is exactly how we like our I-Team leads. Strong, compassionate and vulnerable. And hot. Let’s not forget hot. They fulfill all the requirements and it’ll be great to see them pop up in later stories.
This is really a 4.5 star read. I round up, but I have to say I felt that pall over the story from just how dark it is in the beginning weighs things down a bit. As much as I appreciated the realism, it affected my enjoyment of the story negatively. To be honest, I have an odd trigger with terrorism subjects having been across the river from the World Trade Center on 9/11/01. I can’t explain it and I never know when it’s going to pop up, so there’s that as well. Some may find this too dark, but I’d tell them to stick with it if they can to get to the juicy romantic stuff later. It’s well worth it.
I closed the book with a tear in my eye and a smile on my face and that’s definitely saying something about how I felt about this HEA.
ETA: If you want to talk about this or any Pamela Clare books we have a group here on Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Come and join us! :)
And having read First Strike, the poignancy of Striking Distance will be even more acute. Both main characters are powerfully damaged and, surprisingly, the female lead is actually emotionally and mentally healthier at the beginning of this story than the hero is. Unexpected once you know what’s happened to her in the time since First Strike’s ending but she’s been working at it while he hasn’t. But her recovery is only slightly further along than his, and this couple does a great job of healing each other with every scene.
The first 50% of the book is very atypical of the I-Team series (which has become, in my opinion, one of the absolute top romantic suspense series published today), and I think fans might feel a bit put off. It’s dark. It’s nuts and bolts. It has a pall of tragedy and horror even as there’s light and recovery visible throughout. It felt sort of like a procedural, if that makes any sense.
After the halfway mark, the story shifts and feels much more like the I-Team tale we’re used to. The romance, the sexy playfulness, the great friendships. It’s all there. But the problems introduced in the beginning are not problems that have easy solutions. Sure, PC could have waved her magic writer’s wand and come up with a paper-thin scenario that would have made it all perfect, but she didn’t. Some may feel that makes the HEA more bitter than sweet, but I disagree. I appreciated the HEA far more for the realism. These are characters who could have been seen as victims, but they just won’t stay down. I really appreciated that. Ugh, I realize that sounds like there wasn’t an HEA when there absolutely is. You’ll have to read for yourself to see what I’m talking about because I don’t want to spoil anything.
Javier and Laura are a lovely couple who put others above themselves time and again, which is exactly how we like our I-Team leads. Strong, compassionate and vulnerable. And hot. Let’s not forget hot. They fulfill all the requirements and it’ll be great to see them pop up in later stories.
This is really a 4.5 star read. I round up, but I have to say I felt that pall over the story from just how dark it is in the beginning weighs things down a bit. As much as I appreciated the realism, it affected my enjoyment of the story negatively. To be honest, I have an odd trigger with terrorism subjects having been across the river from the World Trade Center on 9/11/01. I can’t explain it and I never know when it’s going to pop up, so there’s that as well. Some may find this too dark, but I’d tell them to stick with it if they can to get to the juicy romantic stuff later. It’s well worth it.
I closed the book with a tear in my eye and a smile on my face and that’s definitely saying something about how I felt about this HEA.
ETA: If you want to talk about this or any Pamela Clare books we have a group here on Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Come and join us! :)
November 8, 2013
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 BIG STARS
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ` 5 Stars
Action Scenes ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4 Stars
Ending ~ 5 Stars with a FANTASTIC epilogue
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Stars
This was an EXCELLENT story so why did I rate it overall 4.5 stars after giving EVERY category in my review 5 Stars? Well the beginning started off with a BANG! The action was fantastic and I was sitting at the edge of my seat reading fast and furious to get to the outcome of the scene. As the chapters flew by there for a while it was slow moving for me. I think this was due to the fact that Laura and Javier were held up in one place for a while and nothing but smex was going on. Your probably wondering why something like that could possibly make a story slow moving for me considering how I love SCORCHING scenes. I have no answer for that but I can tell you that the book gets back on track shortly afterwards and then I was totally AMAZED until the very end.
How I LOVED Javier this man stole my heart with his fierce warrior ways. GOSH, the way he treated Laura through this whole book was SPECTACULAR! He was EVERYTHING a romance hero should be and then some.
Laura was also a wonderful character, she was smart, brave and always kind in dealing with other people. I loved reading about how much she changed throughout this book with the help of Javier.
The scenes that meant the most for me were when they told each other their secrets. OH MY! My heart broke for them but what was so wonderful was they way they reacted towards each other when they finally spilled the beans.
Another scene that had my heart beating was near the end when Javier laid his heart out for Laura and then what Laura said back to him.
"I wanted to ask you one day when the time seemed right, but we started talking and...Hell, I don't even have a ring yet" He looked into her eyes, his knuckles caressing her cheek. "I'm naked here Bella, just telling you how I feel."
Something inside Laura melted to see this big strong man so completely vulnerable. "What you've done for me....I never thought I'd be whole again. You helped me put the pieces of myself back together. But if my whole world fell apart tomorrow, the piece I couldn't live without is you."
Of course there was more to this scene but I just added a little teaser for those of you have not read it yet.
I also had some LOL moments, one of them was when Laura was Skyping with her mom and grandmother. Those of you who have read this book will know exactly what I'm talking about. Those of you who are still reading and have not gotten that far, I have to say your going to LYAO! This scene was hilarious!
I also shed a few tears while reading. This is a dark story and there were several parts that practically ripped my heart out.
The epilogue was simply FANTASTIC! It told a bit about the near future but also dove into what happened 20 years later. GOSH, I LOVED this epilogue.
So my overall thoughts on this book are that you REALLY do need to read First Strike first. It really sets you up big time for the beginning of this book. The action scenes were EXHILARATING, the characters FANTASTIC! I LOVED the fact that pervious characters from the other I-Team books were added in. Other than that one part that I thought was dragging the rest of the story was AMAZING. The twists and turns that occur while trying to catch the bad guy were FABULAS! This book was brutal, heart wrenching, RAW, tender, sad and yes, happy too. I'm sitting here wondering just what Pamela Clare will come up for us next.
Hero Rating ~ 5 BIG STARS
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ` 5 Stars
Action Scenes ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4 Stars
Ending ~ 5 Stars with a FANTASTIC epilogue
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Stars
This was an EXCELLENT story so why did I rate it overall 4.5 stars after giving EVERY category in my review 5 Stars? Well the beginning started off with a BANG! The action was fantastic and I was sitting at the edge of my seat reading fast and furious to get to the outcome of the scene. As the chapters flew by there for a while it was slow moving for me. I think this was due to the fact that Laura and Javier were held up in one place for a while and nothing but smex was going on. Your probably wondering why something like that could possibly make a story slow moving for me considering how I love SCORCHING scenes. I have no answer for that but I can tell you that the book gets back on track shortly afterwards and then I was totally AMAZED until the very end.
How I LOVED Javier this man stole my heart with his fierce warrior ways. GOSH, the way he treated Laura through this whole book was SPECTACULAR! He was EVERYTHING a romance hero should be and then some.
Laura was also a wonderful character, she was smart, brave and always kind in dealing with other people. I loved reading about how much she changed throughout this book with the help of Javier.
The scenes that meant the most for me were when they told each other their secrets. OH MY! My heart broke for them but what was so wonderful was they way they reacted towards each other when they finally spilled the beans.
Another scene that had my heart beating was near the end when Javier laid his heart out for Laura and then what Laura said back to him.
"I wanted to ask you one day when the time seemed right, but we started talking and...Hell, I don't even have a ring yet" He looked into her eyes, his knuckles caressing her cheek. "I'm naked here Bella, just telling you how I feel."
Something inside Laura melted to see this big strong man so completely vulnerable. "What you've done for me....I never thought I'd be whole again. You helped me put the pieces of myself back together. But if my whole world fell apart tomorrow, the piece I couldn't live without is you."
Of course there was more to this scene but I just added a little teaser for those of you have not read it yet.
I also had some LOL moments, one of them was when Laura was Skyping with her mom and grandmother. Those of you who have read this book will know exactly what I'm talking about. Those of you who are still reading and have not gotten that far, I have to say your going to LYAO! This scene was hilarious!
I also shed a few tears while reading. This is a dark story and there were several parts that practically ripped my heart out.
The epilogue was simply FANTASTIC! It told a bit about the near future but also dove into what happened 20 years later. GOSH, I LOVED this epilogue.
So my overall thoughts on this book are that you REALLY do need to read First Strike first. It really sets you up big time for the beginning of this book. The action scenes were EXHILARATING, the characters FANTASTIC! I LOVED the fact that pervious characters from the other I-Team books were added in. Other than that one part that I thought was dragging the rest of the story was AMAZING. The twists and turns that occur while trying to catch the bad guy were FABULAS! This book was brutal, heart wrenching, RAW, tender, sad and yes, happy too. I'm sitting here wondering just what Pamela Clare will come up for us next.
April 3, 2014
Opening Line:"Socs Javier "Cobra" Corbray sat in the dimly lit belly of the modified C-130J "Super" Hercules, waiting with the other operators of Delta Platoon for the signal to start their oxygen."
So Pamela Clare does it again with another fantastic addition to the I-Team series (#6) If I’m honest it wasn’t my favourite but that’s a bit like saying it’s not your favourite chocolate; you still loved it and want to eat it every day.
I’m so glad I read the extended prequel (First Strike) before starting this. Not only is it a hot little read but it made a huge difference in understanding who this couple was before… well before events changed them.
This is an excellent read but the general tone of the story is slower, without as much of the hard hitting action we’ve grown accustomed to. I think the fact that both characters are damaged and suffering from PTSD had a bearing too. They spend a ton of time recovering and healing each other so the romance is slow burning (yet still super sexy).
If I’m nit-picking (which I only do with books I’m invested in) I also disagreed with a couple of the h’s decisions, not so much the big one -that moved me to tears and I understand the why’s but the whole I also got to the point of eye-rolling with Laura constantly Skyping her G’ma and mother back in Switzerland. However I'd have hated to miss the whole naked, manscaped Javier in the background scene, which was hilarious.
I loved so many things here too; Javier and Laura are awesome characters and I really felt like I knew them by the end. Watching the sweet moments as they fall in love and heal, *big sigh*
Javier… Gah, Clare really knows how to write the perfect heroes. I loved how he sacrificed everything for her and that she trusted him to bring parts of her back to life. I loved that he was her mystery SEAL and she didn’t know and he couldn’t tell her. And yay we get the inclusion of past characters, in particular Marc & Julian and their ongoing bromance and Gabe’s continued affair with adrenaline.
Navy Seal Javier Cobray can’t forget his weekend in Dubai with the “Baghdad Babe” It was only meant to be a no-strings affair, but watching her get kidnapped on live TV eighteen months ago almost broke him and since then he’s thought of little else but revenge on the terrorists that subsequently “killed” her. His latest mission however surprises everyone and finds Laura very much alive, being held at an Al Qaeda compound in Pakistan. He can’t give away his identity but he is taking her home.
Two years later see’s Laura Nilsson now working with the I-Team in Denver. She’s struggling but has come a long way in her recovery and is now about to testify against the extremist leader who kidnapped her.
The romance gods are at work again because it’s during this time that Javier (on medical leave) also finds himself in Denver, staying with his Seal buddy Nate West (Skin Deep) When Laura’s life is threatened and a fatwa is placed on her head Javier makes it his mission to keep her alive.
407jb4.5
So Pamela Clare does it again with another fantastic addition to the I-Team series (#6) If I’m honest it wasn’t my favourite but that’s a bit like saying it’s not your favourite chocolate; you still loved it and want to eat it every day.
I’m so glad I read the extended prequel (First Strike) before starting this. Not only is it a hot little read but it made a huge difference in understanding who this couple was before… well before events changed them.
This is an excellent read but the general tone of the story is slower, without as much of the hard hitting action we’ve grown accustomed to. I think the fact that both characters are damaged and suffering from PTSD had a bearing too. They spend a ton of time recovering and healing each other so the romance is slow burning (yet still super sexy).
If I’m nit-picking (which I only do with books I’m invested in) I also disagreed with a couple of the h’s decisions, not so much the big one -that moved me to tears and I understand the why’s but the whole I also got to the point of eye-rolling with Laura constantly Skyping her G’ma and mother back in Switzerland. However I'd have hated to miss the whole naked, manscaped Javier in the background scene, which was hilarious.
I loved so many things here too; Javier and Laura are awesome characters and I really felt like I knew them by the end. Watching the sweet moments as they fall in love and heal, *big sigh*
Javier… Gah, Clare really knows how to write the perfect heroes. I loved how he sacrificed everything for her and that she trusted him to bring parts of her back to life. I loved that he was her mystery SEAL and she didn’t know and he couldn’t tell her. And yay we get the inclusion of past characters, in particular Marc & Julian and their ongoing bromance and Gabe’s continued affair with adrenaline.
Navy Seal Javier Cobray can’t forget his weekend in Dubai with the “Baghdad Babe” It was only meant to be a no-strings affair, but watching her get kidnapped on live TV eighteen months ago almost broke him and since then he’s thought of little else but revenge on the terrorists that subsequently “killed” her. His latest mission however surprises everyone and finds Laura very much alive, being held at an Al Qaeda compound in Pakistan. He can’t give away his identity but he is taking her home.
Two years later see’s Laura Nilsson now working with the I-Team in Denver. She’s struggling but has come a long way in her recovery and is now about to testify against the extremist leader who kidnapped her.
The romance gods are at work again because it’s during this time that Javier (on medical leave) also finds himself in Denver, staying with his Seal buddy Nate West (Skin Deep) When Laura’s life is threatened and a fatwa is placed on her head Javier makes it his mission to keep her alive.
407jb4.5
November 11, 2013
I will start this review by stating I am a hardcore Pamela Clare fan! OMG I love her writing. Pamela’s McKinnon Ranger series is still my fav “historical men in kilts” books! With all of that in mind I must say I enjoyed this book quite a bit but I did have a few issues with it.
First off, you must read
before reading this. While it is not a priority read to understanding this book, it will give you a glimpse into their first meeting and the passion between these two. its red hot!! OH MY MY!! And the other reason is these two don’t have sex again until way way into the book!! (damn). This was more suspense and action then romance for me, I am not complaining about that I love suspense. I was just was under a different assumption when i started because of First Strike I assume.
Like the blurb states Laura is a reporter and kidnapped on air and it held captive for 2 years. She is beaten, raped and threaten with death on a regular basis. She is eventually rescued and slowly puts the pieces of her life back together. During this time she is still thinking of that time she spent with Javier..
Now Javier is a Navy Seal, strong, handsome, caring, passionate (and a bit dominate in bed, that was nice. hehehe). I loved this guy, I loved his strength, his courage and his openness. Javier is definitely someone to swoon over….
Like I said i love suspense, but my issue is with all the crap Laura had to deal with. How much bad stuff can happen to one person? OMG! Every time i turned around it seemed someone was trying to kill this woman or someone she cared about. I don’t know how much is too much, but when I start to wonder to myself “someone is trying to kill her again?” i know it’s crossed that line for me.
My other issue is Laura’s lingering issues, I didn’t understand one of them. I won’t go into what it was and give anything away. I just felt in the grand scheme of things it was a silly thing to be concerned about. And I wish the time frame was different, i wish Laura and Javier had hooked up again earlier I would have loved to have seen Javier help Laura through that process. I assume that is why i also felt Laura was too perfect considering everything the woman had and is going through. She felt very “contained” to me and I would have loved to see more emotion from her.
I loved loved loved catching up with the rest of the I-Team gang, especially the hubby’s of course. Marc, Julian, Gabe and Zach. “swoon”
These to me are all minor issues really, I read Pamela Clare because she is an extremely talented writer and her books take me away. This book was no different. The characters seemed real and i was caught up in the story. Overall a kickass story that I loved!!
First off, you must read
before reading this. While it is not a priority read to understanding this book, it will give you a glimpse into their first meeting and the passion between these two. its red hot!! OH MY MY!! And the other reason is these two don’t have sex again until way way into the book!! (damn). This was more suspense and action then romance for me, I am not complaining about that I love suspense. I was just was under a different assumption when i started because of First Strike I assume. Like the blurb states Laura is a reporter and kidnapped on air and it held captive for 2 years. She is beaten, raped and threaten with death on a regular basis. She is eventually rescued and slowly puts the pieces of her life back together. During this time she is still thinking of that time she spent with Javier..
Now Javier is a Navy Seal, strong, handsome, caring, passionate (and a bit dominate in bed, that was nice. hehehe). I loved this guy, I loved his strength, his courage and his openness. Javier is definitely someone to swoon over….
Like I said i love suspense, but my issue is with all the crap Laura had to deal with. How much bad stuff can happen to one person? OMG! Every time i turned around it seemed someone was trying to kill this woman or someone she cared about. I don’t know how much is too much, but when I start to wonder to myself “someone is trying to kill her again?” i know it’s crossed that line for me.
My other issue is Laura’s lingering issues, I didn’t understand one of them. I won’t go into what it was and give anything away. I just felt in the grand scheme of things it was a silly thing to be concerned about. And I wish the time frame was different, i wish Laura and Javier had hooked up again earlier I would have loved to have seen Javier help Laura through that process. I assume that is why i also felt Laura was too perfect considering everything the woman had and is going through. She felt very “contained” to me and I would have loved to see more emotion from her.
I loved loved loved catching up with the rest of the I-Team gang, especially the hubby’s of course. Marc, Julian, Gabe and Zach. “swoon”
These to me are all minor issues really, I read Pamela Clare because she is an extremely talented writer and her books take me away. This book was no different. The characters seemed real and i was caught up in the story. Overall a kickass story that I loved!!
July 26, 2014
3.8
Lo que más me fastidia es que no cambia el eje principal de la historia. Eso hace que cuando, como yo, te los leas bastabte seguidos los encuentres demasiado parecidos entre ellos.
Como todo lo que escribe esta mujer es muy recomendable, porque la autora sabe escribir y eso se nota. Muy bien documebtada y muy bien ambientada, con unos personajes con un pasado duro y traumático, algo a lo que ya nos tiene acostumbrada. Pero esta relación me ha faltado chispa, no sé, porque realmente Javier hace que salives literalmente... y ella parace realmente una muñeca... seguramente es cosa mía
Lo que más me fastidia es que no cambia el eje principal de la historia. Eso hace que cuando, como yo, te los leas bastabte seguidos los encuentres demasiado parecidos entre ellos.
Como todo lo que escribe esta mujer es muy recomendable, porque la autora sabe escribir y eso se nota. Muy bien documebtada y muy bien ambientada, con unos personajes con un pasado duro y traumático, algo a lo que ya nos tiene acostumbrada. Pero esta relación me ha faltado chispa, no sé, porque realmente Javier hace que salives literalmente... y ella parace realmente una muñeca... seguramente es cosa mía
July 31, 2018
I don't know how I could possibly do justice to this book with a review, but I'll try. This is the 6th book in Pamela Clare's I-team series. This one is a bit different, in that investigative journalism has little to do with the plot. This is also my favourite so far of the series. Pamela has tackled a very high-profile and timely subject with amazing skill. She has created characters who are so damaged, and yet struggle to rebuild their lives.
Laura Nilsson is a tv journalist who, after being abducted in Afghanistan and held for 18 months in horrible captivity, enduring rape, beatings and constant threats to her life, is rescued by a team of Navy Seals. Unbeknownst to her, the man (Javier) who saves her is the man she had a wonderful weekend with 2 months prior to her abduction. We pick up her story 2 years after her rescue, and she and Javier have met again coincidentally through common friends. Although neither is interested in a relationship, Javier steps in to protect her from threats to her life again. The growth of their relationship is wonderful to watch, and part of the magic that is Pamela Clare. The romance is only a small part of this book, however. As in all of the books of this series, the plot is action filled and full of twists and turns that the reader would be hard-pressed to see coming very far in advance. This book is also, at times, painful to read. When Laura has to make the most difficult decision of her life, I cried for her. Yet I cried knowing that she was making the right decision, no matter how much it hurt. She acted selflessly and bravely. Kudos to Ms. Clare for letting her character make this decision...it would have been much simpler to take the easy way out, but it would have lacked realism and would have been contrary to the character's essence.
In my eyes, Ms. Clare has cemented her position as the best writer of romantic suspense out there...bar none.
5+ stars
Update July, 2018: reread in audio. Yes, I cried...again! Kaleo Griffith definitely does justice to this story.
Laura Nilsson is a tv journalist who, after being abducted in Afghanistan and held for 18 months in horrible captivity, enduring rape, beatings and constant threats to her life, is rescued by a team of Navy Seals. Unbeknownst to her, the man (Javier) who saves her is the man she had a wonderful weekend with 2 months prior to her abduction. We pick up her story 2 years after her rescue, and she and Javier have met again coincidentally through common friends. Although neither is interested in a relationship, Javier steps in to protect her from threats to her life again. The growth of their relationship is wonderful to watch, and part of the magic that is Pamela Clare. The romance is only a small part of this book, however. As in all of the books of this series, the plot is action filled and full of twists and turns that the reader would be hard-pressed to see coming very far in advance. This book is also, at times, painful to read. When Laura has to make the most difficult decision of her life, I cried for her. Yet I cried knowing that she was making the right decision, no matter how much it hurt. She acted selflessly and bravely. Kudos to Ms. Clare for letting her character make this decision...it would have been much simpler to take the easy way out, but it would have lacked realism and would have been contrary to the character's essence.
In my eyes, Ms. Clare has cemented her position as the best writer of romantic suspense out there...bar none.
5+ stars
Update July, 2018: reread in audio. Yes, I cried...again! Kaleo Griffith definitely does justice to this story.
January 26, 2016
Striking Distance (I-Team #6) by Pamela Clare is another amazing installment in the I-Team series. This book is easily read as a standalone, but the whole series is very worth the read. Ms. Clare’s characters always grab me from the get go and keep me turning the pages.
Laura Nilsson is a war zone TV reporter, who is abducted and while the world has been told she has been beheaded, she is being held by an al Qaeda terrorist for eighteen months. Navy SEAL, Javier Corbray is on a mission to abduct the terrorist and finds a miracle, Laura Nilsson is alive.
Two years pass and Laura has found a place to heal and work on the I-Team in Denver, while testifying in court against her abductor. Javier comes to Denver to visit his best friend Nate on his ranch and take a break while recovering from wounds, both physical and mental from his last op. The two are reunited just as attempts are made on Laura’s life. They don’t know who is behind the threats, al Qaeda or someone she has had other interactions with as a journalist, but Javier isn’t leaving her side until she is safe.
The trauma of Laura’s abduction and abuse and the trauma of Javier’s bad op has been handled extremely well by this author. The plot moves at a fast pace with the constant threat against Laura, while amazingly fitting in the healing, redemption and love between the H/h. The sacrifice made at the end had me in tears and thank you so much to the author for the follow-up additional chapters. I can’t recommend this book enough!
Laura Nilsson is a war zone TV reporter, who is abducted and while the world has been told she has been beheaded, she is being held by an al Qaeda terrorist for eighteen months. Navy SEAL, Javier Corbray is on a mission to abduct the terrorist and finds a miracle, Laura Nilsson is alive.
Two years pass and Laura has found a place to heal and work on the I-Team in Denver, while testifying in court against her abductor. Javier comes to Denver to visit his best friend Nate on his ranch and take a break while recovering from wounds, both physical and mental from his last op. The two are reunited just as attempts are made on Laura’s life. They don’t know who is behind the threats, al Qaeda or someone she has had other interactions with as a journalist, but Javier isn’t leaving her side until she is safe.
The trauma of Laura’s abduction and abuse and the trauma of Javier’s bad op has been handled extremely well by this author. The plot moves at a fast pace with the constant threat against Laura, while amazingly fitting in the healing, redemption and love between the H/h. The sacrifice made at the end had me in tears and thank you so much to the author for the follow-up additional chapters. I can’t recommend this book enough!
own-unread
January 26, 2016UPDATE 2
Its have cover!! And better than Breaking Point! Congrats Pamela, the Cover God smile for you! ;)
UPDATE
Pamela just give us a glimpse about Striking Distance at her blog.You can read it here :
http://pamelaclare.blogspot.com/2012/...
You kill me with this post, Pamela!! :'(
Pamela Clare (a.k.a my author goddess) just tell via her Twitter,that the title of the 6th book of I-Team series(one of my favorites) will be titled Striking Distance and feature Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer Javier "Cobra" Corbray.
Now,now as the heroine, I don't know who exactly. But I remember Pamela once said, she is the woman who replace Natalie Benoit. And Pamela just told me this one will be release at Spring 2013.
Why you do this to us, Pamela? I want this book right now!! :'(
Its have cover!! And better than Breaking Point! Congrats Pamela, the Cover God smile for you! ;)
UPDATE
Pamela just give us a glimpse about Striking Distance at her blog.You can read it here :
http://pamelaclare.blogspot.com/2012/...
You kill me with this post, Pamela!! :'(
Pamela Clare (a.k.a my author goddess) just tell via her Twitter,that the title of the 6th book of I-Team series(one of my favorites) will be titled Striking Distance and feature Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer Javier "Cobra" Corbray.
Now,now as the heroine, I don't know who exactly. But I remember Pamela once said, she is the woman who replace Natalie Benoit. And Pamela just told me this one will be release at Spring 2013.
Why you do this to us, Pamela? I want this book right now!! :'(
February 5, 2018
Algo floja pero con un prota muy guarrete, jeje. Ya os contaré más en la reseña
November 10, 2013
It was good but definitely won't be listed among my favorites in this series. I would say that this one was more along the lines of books one and two...with a little bit slower moving plot.
I really liked the main characters of Javier and Laura and the romance had some sweet moments but the sizzle that was present in the novella (First Strike) or in the last few I-Team books, i wasn't feeling. Even the fast paced, thrilling, heart stopping suspense that was featured so strongly in books four, five and six was lacking in this one. It started out strong with the exciting rescue in the beginning, unfortunately the rest of it was just a little bit ho hum for me. Sadly, this one was a like not a love. :(
I really liked the main characters of Javier and Laura and the romance had some sweet moments but the sizzle that was present in the novella (First Strike) or in the last few I-Team books, i wasn't feeling. Even the fast paced, thrilling, heart stopping suspense that was featured so strongly in books four, five and six was lacking in this one. It started out strong with the exciting rescue in the beginning, unfortunately the rest of it was just a little bit ho hum for me. Sadly, this one was a like not a love. :(
November 1, 2013
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: A
Striking Distance starts out with the rescue of Laura Nilsson, a reporter who was captured on TV 18 months ago and believed to be dead but has been held captive by Al Qaeda. We learn about the horrors she managed to live through, being raped, beaten, threatened with being beheaded and the terror she’s been living in for all these months have understandably messed with her head and she has to remind herself daily what her name is as the majority of the life she once knew has been forgotten. During a raid on the compound by an American SEAL team, Laura comes back to herself enough to yell out for help and is rescued by a man that she doesn’t recognize with his gear on and face paint, but he knows her not only from her days as a reporter but from one sexy weekend they shared just prior to her capture (First Strike). Javier can’t believe she’s alive and he and his team get her home so her long road to recovery can start.
The story jumps ahead two years, Laura is now a part of the I-Team in Denver, a newspaper investigative reporting team and she’s slowly trying to move on with her life. She still thinks about Javier and their one weekend together and has no idea that he was part of the team that helped her get home. Javier went back out on missions and they haven’t seen each other for two years. He’s now on leave for recovery after a mission gone wrong that he’s still trying to deal with. He ends up at his best friend’s ranch in Denver and through mutual friends, he reconnects with Laura.
The suspense stays strong throughout as Laura’s life is still in danger. As a reporter she uncovered stories that showed US Troops in both a good light and not so good light. Between that and the terrorists that have her name due to her testimony that helped put away her rapist for life, attempts have been made on her own life, but it’s not so cut and dry as to who is targeting her. Javier moves in to provide protection and the I-Team men all play their part in the investigation. It’s always fun to see guys like Darcangelo and Hunter show up on page!
He sat up and ran his knuckles over her cheek. “I can think of a thousand ways to make love to you, Bella, a thousand ways to satisfy you. Forget about everything but us. Just let me touch you. Tell me what feels good.”
His words sent a tremor through her, hope warring with despair inside her.
He teased her lips with his, traced their outline with his tongue, nipped them with his teeth, tiny bites that brought only pleasure. And her lips began to burn. Then he claimed her mouth with a slow, deep kiss that she knew would drive darker thoughts from her mind – if she let it.
Don’t think. Feel.
While the suspense plays a major role throughout the entire book, the romance between Laura and Javier was so well done. It’s slow moving and rightfully so considering what Laura went through. Previously, she had been a woman who loved sex, had very few inhibitions and loved the dominant Javier she spent time with during their one weekend together years ago. But everything is different now, she’s not comfortable with intimacy, she hasn’t been with anyone since her capture and she’s desperate to try and find the woman she once was, and to see if she still exists. I loved how Javier was there for her. He was the man she needed and just because they take things slow doesn’t mean the sexiness is absent. We have to wait a long time before they finally do have sex, but the buildup is worth it and they slowly progress with very hot, very sweet and very satisfying scenes together.
The balance between the romance and the suspense was well paced throughout. I loved seeing Laura use her investigative skills to help track clues regarding the threats against her and the various characters that are woven throughout the story that end up being in the middle of this case, whether by their own choice or not. Of course Javier, Zach, Hunter and Darcangelo all use their different resources, but I liked seeing Laura involved as well. The plot and pacing is fast paced, although much more so in the second half of the book, and I love & hate how each chapter feels like it ends right in the middle of major action. I love it in that the pages fly by, but it’s impossible to put the book down and I ended up reading this in basically one sitting.
There’s a secondary storyline involving a young girl, Klara, that’s heartbreaking and the full impact of her storyline doesn’t really hit home until the end. It’s something that brought me to tears and I went through so many emotions regarding how Laura handles it. At first I was angry, then upset and then I got it. And I loved that Pamela Clare gives us two different time jumps in the epilogue, it really brings Laura and Javier’s storyline to a nice close and while I always enjoy a good epilogue, the one we get in Striking Distance is so important and really helps bring a nice closure to the story.
There is something about the way that Clare writes romantic suspense that sucks me in every time. The suspense is very detailed and action packed, I felt like I was right in the middle of it all. The romance has that great combination of sweet and sexy and I really enjoyed how it grew throughout the book and how it impacted both Laura and Javier in helping them deal with their past as they got closer together. I loved Striking Distance from start to finish; it’s romantic suspense done right.
Blog rating: A
Striking Distance starts out with the rescue of Laura Nilsson, a reporter who was captured on TV 18 months ago and believed to be dead but has been held captive by Al Qaeda. We learn about the horrors she managed to live through, being raped, beaten, threatened with being beheaded and the terror she’s been living in for all these months have understandably messed with her head and she has to remind herself daily what her name is as the majority of the life she once knew has been forgotten. During a raid on the compound by an American SEAL team, Laura comes back to herself enough to yell out for help and is rescued by a man that she doesn’t recognize with his gear on and face paint, but he knows her not only from her days as a reporter but from one sexy weekend they shared just prior to her capture (First Strike). Javier can’t believe she’s alive and he and his team get her home so her long road to recovery can start.
The story jumps ahead two years, Laura is now a part of the I-Team in Denver, a newspaper investigative reporting team and she’s slowly trying to move on with her life. She still thinks about Javier and their one weekend together and has no idea that he was part of the team that helped her get home. Javier went back out on missions and they haven’t seen each other for two years. He’s now on leave for recovery after a mission gone wrong that he’s still trying to deal with. He ends up at his best friend’s ranch in Denver and through mutual friends, he reconnects with Laura.
The suspense stays strong throughout as Laura’s life is still in danger. As a reporter she uncovered stories that showed US Troops in both a good light and not so good light. Between that and the terrorists that have her name due to her testimony that helped put away her rapist for life, attempts have been made on her own life, but it’s not so cut and dry as to who is targeting her. Javier moves in to provide protection and the I-Team men all play their part in the investigation. It’s always fun to see guys like Darcangelo and Hunter show up on page!
He sat up and ran his knuckles over her cheek. “I can think of a thousand ways to make love to you, Bella, a thousand ways to satisfy you. Forget about everything but us. Just let me touch you. Tell me what feels good.”
His words sent a tremor through her, hope warring with despair inside her.
He teased her lips with his, traced their outline with his tongue, nipped them with his teeth, tiny bites that brought only pleasure. And her lips began to burn. Then he claimed her mouth with a slow, deep kiss that she knew would drive darker thoughts from her mind – if she let it.
Don’t think. Feel.
While the suspense plays a major role throughout the entire book, the romance between Laura and Javier was so well done. It’s slow moving and rightfully so considering what Laura went through. Previously, she had been a woman who loved sex, had very few inhibitions and loved the dominant Javier she spent time with during their one weekend together years ago. But everything is different now, she’s not comfortable with intimacy, she hasn’t been with anyone since her capture and she’s desperate to try and find the woman she once was, and to see if she still exists. I loved how Javier was there for her. He was the man she needed and just because they take things slow doesn’t mean the sexiness is absent. We have to wait a long time before they finally do have sex, but the buildup is worth it and they slowly progress with very hot, very sweet and very satisfying scenes together.
The balance between the romance and the suspense was well paced throughout. I loved seeing Laura use her investigative skills to help track clues regarding the threats against her and the various characters that are woven throughout the story that end up being in the middle of this case, whether by their own choice or not. Of course Javier, Zach, Hunter and Darcangelo all use their different resources, but I liked seeing Laura involved as well. The plot and pacing is fast paced, although much more so in the second half of the book, and I love & hate how each chapter feels like it ends right in the middle of major action. I love it in that the pages fly by, but it’s impossible to put the book down and I ended up reading this in basically one sitting.
There’s a secondary storyline involving a young girl, Klara, that’s heartbreaking and the full impact of her storyline doesn’t really hit home until the end. It’s something that brought me to tears and I went through so many emotions regarding how Laura handles it. At first I was angry, then upset and then I got it. And I loved that Pamela Clare gives us two different time jumps in the epilogue, it really brings Laura and Javier’s storyline to a nice close and while I always enjoy a good epilogue, the one we get in Striking Distance is so important and really helps bring a nice closure to the story.
There is something about the way that Clare writes romantic suspense that sucks me in every time. The suspense is very detailed and action packed, I felt like I was right in the middle of it all. The romance has that great combination of sweet and sexy and I really enjoyed how it grew throughout the book and how it impacted both Laura and Javier in helping them deal with their past as they got closer together. I loved Striking Distance from start to finish; it’s romantic suspense done right.
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