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One-Eyed Jacks #4
Taking Fire
Betrayal. Retribution. Redemption?
Six years ago, tough-as-nails military contractor Bobby Taggart met the woman of his dreams in war-torn Kabul—a sexy, whip-smart war correspondent who approached him at a local bar, took him to bed, made him fall in love…and then mysteriously disappeared. In her wake, the terrorist leader he’d been mining for valuable intel was assassinated—then Bobby discovered his phone had been bugged. And he’s pretty damn sure he’s been played for a fool.
Now, a covert security mission for the U.S. Embassy in Oman unexpectedly reunites him with Talia Levine, the woman who betrayed him and broke his heart. And there’s one more secret she hasn’t told him—one that will change his world. But as the heat of anger mixes with a still-simmering passion, dangerous forces close in, their sights set on Talia. Trust is the only way they will survive—but with their lives in the balance, can Bobby risk trusting her again?
Six years ago, tough-as-nails military contractor Bobby Taggart met the woman of his dreams in war-torn Kabul—a sexy, whip-smart war correspondent who approached him at a local bar, took him to bed, made him fall in love…and then mysteriously disappeared. In her wake, the terrorist leader he’d been mining for valuable intel was assassinated—then Bobby discovered his phone had been bugged. And he’s pretty damn sure he’s been played for a fool.
Now, a covert security mission for the U.S. Embassy in Oman unexpectedly reunites him with Talia Levine, the woman who betrayed him and broke his heart. And there’s one more secret she hasn’t told him—one that will change his world. But as the heat of anger mixes with a still-simmering passion, dangerous forces close in, their sights set on Talia. Trust is the only way they will survive—but with their lives in the balance, can Bobby risk trusting her again?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2016
89 people are currently reading
1375 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Gerard
156 books1,621 followersThe only thing Cindy had in mind when she started writing her first book was finishing it. The issue of actually selling it came much later. Only after she made that life-altering first sale did she realize that one book would never be enough. Now, over 20 books and numerous awards later, Cindy laughingly admits that she can barely remember life before...well, was there life before writing?
Actually, yes there was, and still is. A professional career woman, Cindy is a trainer for the Iowa Department of Human Services, a position she states is both challenging and rewarding. "Human Services is a front-line, real-life event. Everything about the job is immediate, from serving families in crisis, to assisting staff with difficult situations, to meeting tension-fraught deadlines."
Cindy's career has taught her much about the human condition, its frailties, its strengths, and its spirit. The evocative emotions that pour from the pages of her books are a reflection of some of her work experiences. Her writing celebrates life's richness and trials, offering a wide range of emotions — hope and elation, anger and indecision, laughter and, of course, love. And, according to her readers, her powerful love scenes run the gamut from steamy to tender to lusty to just plain fun.
Cindy's writing has netted her spots on bestseller lists, numerous RT nominations and awards, the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, a National Reader's Choice Award and two RITA nominations.
Between writing and working full time you wouldn't think Cindy would have much time for anything else. And while she does find her work and her writing rewarding, there does have to be more. Cindy has more. Much more. She is happily married to the perfect man. Tom's a cowboy, ladies!
Yes, even Iowa has its share of that saddle-straddling, Wrangler-wearing species who love their horses almost as much as they love their women. As a matter of fact, recently a whole herd of Texans gathered at the Gerard "Ranch" to treat their little ones to real horseback rides. Go figure.
Cindy has a passion for pink depression glass — she always has her eye out for the special piece to add to her collection. Cindy's down time often takes the form of the classic "busman's holiday." She loves to read and most of all, she loves to read at their summer place, a cabin in the woods on Lake Kabetogama in northern Minnesota.
Both Tom and Cindy enjoy gardening and have recently expanded their annual beds into a perennial garden. Cindy says she can hardly wait for spring and the promise of all that reawakening and the colorful blooms.
In addition to the horses, the Gerards have two dogs, Ellie and Boomer, who pretty much get anything they want. Tom and Cindy have one son, Kyle, who, after years of keeping them in suspense, found Eileen, the perfect woman.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/cindyg...
Actually, yes there was, and still is. A professional career woman, Cindy is a trainer for the Iowa Department of Human Services, a position she states is both challenging and rewarding. "Human Services is a front-line, real-life event. Everything about the job is immediate, from serving families in crisis, to assisting staff with difficult situations, to meeting tension-fraught deadlines."
Cindy's career has taught her much about the human condition, its frailties, its strengths, and its spirit. The evocative emotions that pour from the pages of her books are a reflection of some of her work experiences. Her writing celebrates life's richness and trials, offering a wide range of emotions — hope and elation, anger and indecision, laughter and, of course, love. And, according to her readers, her powerful love scenes run the gamut from steamy to tender to lusty to just plain fun.
Cindy's writing has netted her spots on bestseller lists, numerous RT nominations and awards, the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, a National Reader's Choice Award and two RITA nominations.
Between writing and working full time you wouldn't think Cindy would have much time for anything else. And while she does find her work and her writing rewarding, there does have to be more. Cindy has more. Much more. She is happily married to the perfect man. Tom's a cowboy, ladies!
Yes, even Iowa has its share of that saddle-straddling, Wrangler-wearing species who love their horses almost as much as they love their women. As a matter of fact, recently a whole herd of Texans gathered at the Gerard "Ranch" to treat their little ones to real horseback rides. Go figure.
Cindy has a passion for pink depression glass — she always has her eye out for the special piece to add to her collection. Cindy's down time often takes the form of the classic "busman's holiday." She loves to read and most of all, she loves to read at their summer place, a cabin in the woods on Lake Kabetogama in northern Minnesota.
Both Tom and Cindy enjoy gardening and have recently expanded their annual beds into a perennial garden. Cindy says she can hardly wait for spring and the promise of all that reawakening and the colorful blooms.
In addition to the horses, the Gerards have two dogs, Ellie and Boomer, who pretty much get anything they want. Tom and Cindy have one son, Kyle, who, after years of keeping them in suspense, found Eileen, the perfect woman.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/cindyg...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
February 10, 2019
3.5 Stars
A hot military guy gets played by a woman who uses him to get information and leaves when she gets what she wants. He’s heartbroken and can’t get over her for years. And then he ? He's pissed off and full of hate.
Yum.
I’m a bad, bad person because I loved how tortured and heartbroken he was.
Plus, the writing is good, the characters likable and the plot suspenseful and action-loaded from the start.
I did, however, have problems with connecting to all of the characters and references to previous events but that’s my fault because I haven’t read the previous books in the series.
I liked the heroine, she’s a real badass but I didn’t feel her love for the hero. The hero, on the other hand, was awesome and his love felt real.
Overall, a really enjoyable read and I’m definitely going to read this author again.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 4/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3.5/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 3.5/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: multiple, 3rd person
Triggers:
A hot military guy gets played by a woman who uses him to get information and leaves when she gets what she wants. He’s heartbroken and can’t get over her for years. And then he ? He's pissed off and full of hate.
Yum.
I’m a bad, bad person because I loved how tortured and heartbroken he was.
Plus, the writing is good, the characters likable and the plot suspenseful and action-loaded from the start.
I did, however, have problems with connecting to all of the characters and references to previous events but that’s my fault because I haven’t read the previous books in the series.
I liked the heroine, she’s a real badass but I didn’t feel her love for the hero. The hero, on the other hand, was awesome and his love felt real.
Overall, a really enjoyable read and I’m definitely going to read this author again.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 4/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3.5/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 3.5/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: multiple, 3rd person
Triggers:
January 5, 2016
4.5 Stars
When I think of heart pounding romantic suspense, Cindy Gerard is the first name to pop into my head. The woman is a romantic suspense rockstar. Having read her entire backlist, I'm not making that statement lightly. I loved her Black Ops series, and Bobby "Boom Boom" Taggard made quite a few appearances in it. Enough to pique my interest and leave me salivating for his own story. I had a feeling that he would be getting it in One-Eyed Jacks, and now here he is. So what can I tell you? His story was definitely worth the wait.
What I really love about Gerard's books is her ability to write these amazingly strong heroines but infuse them with just enough vulnerability to make them endearing. And Talia Levine was the epitome of that. This is a woman that can kick some ass and take names, but there's a hidden part of her that craves something more...emotional.
Six years ago Bobby Taggard met a woman that changed everything for him. In Kabul working for a civilian military group, Bobby still remembers the mission that caused him to be dishonorably discharged and the men his lost on the mission gone wrong. When a gorgeous woman catches his eye at a rundown bar, he's suspicious, but not suspicious enough to turn her down. He knows she's hiding something and she may not be the war correspondent she wants him to believe she is, but there's something between them he can't deny. What was meant to be just one night, began to turn into so much more for him...until she betrayed him and broke his heart.
Talia doesn't regret anything more than what she was forced to do to Bobby. She had a choice; her heart or her mission, and she made it, but not without a sacrifice. Her true identity is not the only thing she's been holding secret from him all these years. When a terrorist bombing in the U.S. Embassy in Oman brings them together once more, Talia realizes that she just may be the one with the target on her back. Bobby never got over her betrayal, and his resentment and anger still linger. But can they work together and set old secrets and their past aside long enough for a common mission?
I'm a sucker for a second-chance romance and Taking Fire delivers that with a bang. While I wanted to hate Talia for some of her choices, the author does a fantastic job really letting you into her head to understand why she made them. As for Bobby, I fell for him hard. This is a tough as nails warrior but he wears his heart on his sleeve. He struggles with his lingering broken heart, but he still can't deny that the chemistry and feelings between them never disappeared. He doesn't think he can ever forgive her for what she did to him, but at the same time he doesn't punish her for it. He's there for her when she needs him the most, no questions asked. But when the bullets stop flying and the mission is complete, he knows there will be nothing left for them.
What I truly appreciated was that the author really took her time with the ending and working on Talia and Bobby's relationship. It doesn't simply get wrapped up in a quick pretty little bow when their mission is complete. They really work for it and it was the perfect emotional conclusion. I absolutely loved it.
While Taking Fire is book 4 in the series, it's also easily read as a standalone. Nate Black and some of my favorite Black Ops characters make an appearance here, so if you've read that series you'll definitely appreciate it, but you won't be lost if you haven't either. An action packed, sexy and unputdownable read. I loved it from start to finish.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
And there they stood, locked in an embrace of emotions that bound them together with a common history, a common fear, and a common goal.
When I think of heart pounding romantic suspense, Cindy Gerard is the first name to pop into my head. The woman is a romantic suspense rockstar. Having read her entire backlist, I'm not making that statement lightly. I loved her Black Ops series, and Bobby "Boom Boom" Taggard made quite a few appearances in it. Enough to pique my interest and leave me salivating for his own story. I had a feeling that he would be getting it in One-Eyed Jacks, and now here he is. So what can I tell you? His story was definitely worth the wait.
What I really love about Gerard's books is her ability to write these amazingly strong heroines but infuse them with just enough vulnerability to make them endearing. And Talia Levine was the epitome of that. This is a woman that can kick some ass and take names, but there's a hidden part of her that craves something more...emotional.
Six years ago Bobby Taggard met a woman that changed everything for him. In Kabul working for a civilian military group, Bobby still remembers the mission that caused him to be dishonorably discharged and the men his lost on the mission gone wrong. When a gorgeous woman catches his eye at a rundown bar, he's suspicious, but not suspicious enough to turn her down. He knows she's hiding something and she may not be the war correspondent she wants him to believe she is, but there's something between them he can't deny. What was meant to be just one night, began to turn into so much more for him...until she betrayed him and broke his heart.
Talia doesn't regret anything more than what she was forced to do to Bobby. She had a choice; her heart or her mission, and she made it, but not without a sacrifice. Her true identity is not the only thing she's been holding secret from him all these years. When a terrorist bombing in the U.S. Embassy in Oman brings them together once more, Talia realizes that she just may be the one with the target on her back. Bobby never got over her betrayal, and his resentment and anger still linger. But can they work together and set old secrets and their past aside long enough for a common mission?
I'm a sucker for a second-chance romance and Taking Fire delivers that with a bang. While I wanted to hate Talia for some of her choices, the author does a fantastic job really letting you into her head to understand why she made them. As for Bobby, I fell for him hard. This is a tough as nails warrior but he wears his heart on his sleeve. He struggles with his lingering broken heart, but he still can't deny that the chemistry and feelings between them never disappeared. He doesn't think he can ever forgive her for what she did to him, but at the same time he doesn't punish her for it. He's there for her when she needs him the most, no questions asked. But when the bullets stop flying and the mission is complete, he knows there will be nothing left for them.
What I truly appreciated was that the author really took her time with the ending and working on Talia and Bobby's relationship. It doesn't simply get wrapped up in a quick pretty little bow when their mission is complete. They really work for it and it was the perfect emotional conclusion. I absolutely loved it.
While Taking Fire is book 4 in the series, it's also easily read as a standalone. Nate Black and some of my favorite Black Ops characters make an appearance here, so if you've read that series you'll definitely appreciate it, but you won't be lost if you haven't either. An action packed, sexy and unputdownable read. I loved it from start to finish.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
February 24, 2016
Update Jan 24 2016 : It's available on Amazon US now ... LOVED this one!!
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
Before I requested this one on NetGalley I had to think if I would like to read this … Military … Kabul … Terrorists … Betrayal … It’s not wat I usually read but I was intrigued. But I’m glad I did because I loved every second of it!
Betrayal
Six years ago Bobby was supposed to be just an assignment. Talia, Mossad, seduced him to get much needed intel on the location of a terrorist. Bobby was a civilian contractor trying to capture the same terrorist.
Retribution
Six years Talia carried the guilt and another secret. Six years Bobby felt betrayed and thought he hated Talia. Now a chance encounter brings them to the same place. Again in danger they are forced to work together. Bobby now works for an elite covert branch of the Department of Defense. Talia has left Mossad and has been trying to stay safe. One revelation changes everything!
Redemption
Can Bobby forget what happened? Can they build a live together?
I loved this well written action filled romance and give it 4.5 stars. The balance between action and the building romance great…. Perfect for a movie or tv series ;)
This is the forth book in the One-Eyed Jacks series. I haven’t read the previous books yet but I put them on my wanted list immediately after finishing this one...
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
Before I requested this one on NetGalley I had to think if I would like to read this … Military … Kabul … Terrorists … Betrayal … It’s not wat I usually read but I was intrigued. But I’m glad I did because I loved every second of it!
Betrayal
Six years ago Bobby was supposed to be just an assignment. Talia, Mossad, seduced him to get much needed intel on the location of a terrorist. Bobby was a civilian contractor trying to capture the same terrorist.
Retribution
Six years Talia carried the guilt and another secret. Six years Bobby felt betrayed and thought he hated Talia. Now a chance encounter brings them to the same place. Again in danger they are forced to work together. Bobby now works for an elite covert branch of the Department of Defense. Talia has left Mossad and has been trying to stay safe. One revelation changes everything!
Redemption
Can Bobby forget what happened? Can they build a live together?
I loved this well written action filled romance and give it 4.5 stars. The balance between action and the building romance great…. Perfect for a movie or tv series ;)
This is the forth book in the One-Eyed Jacks series. I haven’t read the previous books yet but I put them on my wanted list immediately after finishing this one...
February 23, 2016
Readers, if you’re excited about this book, you have a good reason to be. I’ve been a fan of Cindy Gerard for some time now but its books like TAKING FIRE that really make me appreciate how talented an author she is.
When you read the blurb of this book, it doesn’t sound like it will be any different from the other Romantic Suspense stories we’ve encountered before. As a member of the Mossad, Talia obviously puts her own life in danger for the organization she adores. But she never expects that in seducing a hardened warrior to bring her closer to her target that she will fall in love with him in a week.
I thought the set up would be a quick hello-and-goodbye deal because well, that’s really what a lot of other authors would do to be honest. But Gerard surprised me when she took her time, building that romance right from the beginning. Let me tell you, the level of tension between these two is off the charts. In just one chapter, Gerard was able to convey some tension, both the sexual and suspenseful kind but back it up with plenty of emotion.
EMOTION. That’s what this book is filled with. Whether we’re talking fear, anxiety, desire or lust, Gerard goes through the entire rainbow of human emotion to make readers FEEL. What’s so special about this book is that it doesn’t just cover the positive emotions that are often associated with strong romances. Gerard also touches on fear, worry, betrayal. You don’t encounter this often in other series let alone in a single novel. But somehow Gerard has managed to pack them all in here in a believable way.
In diving into this book, I worried that I would not like Talia because of what she does to Bobby but I never felt any ill feelings towards her at all. Even whens he was betraying him. There was something very genuine about her character. And I believed that she thought she was doing the right thing at the time. Even though she used him, we later learn of other events that she did to try and make up for it. Despite their rocky beginning, I absolutely love Talia and Bobby together.
As always, Gerard never fails on delivering in the hot hero department. Oh baby, Taggart is one sexy motherfucker. Even if you aren’t a RS fan, try this series out for its heroes. You’ll definitely want to start collecting them like I have.
I loved this book. All of it. TAKING FIRE had me feeling all kinds of emotions I never thought I would’ve in a single book and this once again proves why Cindy Gerard is the queen of Romantic Suspense.
Read my alternate review at Fresh Fiction
July 11, 2016
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
The story begins six years prior to present day with Bobby Taggart, former member of the One-Eyed Jacks unit, working in Kabul as an independent contractor for a private security firm. He encounters Talia Levine who was undercover as a war correspondent. Despite his reservations, he spends a week with Talia where he fell hard. It all falls apart when she disappears after having used him to take out her target. Back to present day and the two reconnect in Oman following a bombing of the US embassy. She's the target and the terrorists have taken something precious of hers to force her submission. They must work together and against the clock to take them out before they kill her.
I enjoyed the tension in this story, both that created by the mission operations and Talia's betrayal. The team dynamics are what keep me interested in the series, along with the realities of the execution of op plans...something always goes wrong. Bobby's struggle to find a way to forgive Talia was realistic, going through each phase to reach that end. It rang authentic.
This was a welcome change from the previous book in the series, which was just okay. It has all the elements I'm used to reading from this author. I'm unsure if this is the last book and if it is, it ended on a good note.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
The story begins six years prior to present day with Bobby Taggart, former member of the One-Eyed Jacks unit, working in Kabul as an independent contractor for a private security firm. He encounters Talia Levine who was undercover as a war correspondent. Despite his reservations, he spends a week with Talia where he fell hard. It all falls apart when she disappears after having used him to take out her target. Back to present day and the two reconnect in Oman following a bombing of the US embassy. She's the target and the terrorists have taken something precious of hers to force her submission. They must work together and against the clock to take them out before they kill her.
I enjoyed the tension in this story, both that created by the mission operations and Talia's betrayal. The team dynamics are what keep me interested in the series, along with the realities of the execution of op plans...something always goes wrong. Bobby's struggle to find a way to forgive Talia was realistic, going through each phase to reach that end. It rang authentic.
This was a welcome change from the previous book in the series, which was just okay. It has all the elements I'm used to reading from this author. I'm unsure if this is the last book and if it is, it ended on a good note.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
February 19, 2016
ARC REVIEW
Originally posted at Scandalicious Book Reviews
Goodness, I have missed Cindy Gerard. She takes her time writing her romantic suspense books and it shows in the quality of the read. This is a quintessential Cindy Gerard story. It’s detailed, emotive, and suspenseful. From the first word, I am completely suckered into the narrative. It doesn’t take long to set up the scenario in which two battle-weary people find solace with one another. Their experience as agents warns them to erect formidable emotional barriers, yet, when the walls come down, there is an intensity and depth reached in a very short time.
Bobby Taggart meets Talia Levine while working in the Middle East. He’s a security contractor and she is a journalist. After a week-long torrid affair, she disappears just after his mission goes awry. Turns out that Talia is a Mossad agent and she is the reason he fails his assignment and a renown terrorist is killed.
Six years later, in an act of revenge, the family members of the terrorist kidnap Talia’s son, Meir. She is on a new assignment for the American Embassy in Omar. Bobby is also sent there to work for the embassy and they reunite. Talia needs help getting back her son and she also needs to tell Bobby that he is Meir’s father.
I appreciate how Ms. Gerard sets up the story of two operatives working at for opposite goals and then forced into working together to resolve an intense family situation. The search for their son is fraught with danger and intrigue. However, this story also dives deep into the anguish of bitter betrayal and challenging forgiveness. Bobby radiates pain when he finds out that he has a son, and that Talia keeps Meir’s existence from him for five years shakes his faith even further. He is hurt and conflicted about Talia’s actions, and yet, he must work with her to get back Meir back.
There is a certain kind of ache when a relationship ends because of circumstances and not by choice. The couple is plagued by “what ifs” – what if they had met at a different time, place, situation – could they have worked then? Bad timing feels more tragic than if the relationship ends by mutual agreement:
Pride, loss, yearning. This time he couldn’t stop the tears. He lifted a hand to wipe them away; she stopped him. . . . He’d tried to hold on to the anger that had been his companion since she’d left him in Kabul, but he couldn’t. He knew she was sorry. . . . Sorry that everything they could’ve been together had be stolen by circumstance, duty, and war. Too much had happened between them to be forgotten. Too much to be forgiven.
Taggart’s inability to forgive Talia for what she has done is painful and yet, there is an aching desire to let it all go.
Adding a child to the scenario adds another layer of entanglement and some relief from the intensity of the narrative. Bobby is suddenly thrown into fatherhood and gets to experience the purity of a child’s affection. I love that the author devotes time with the newly formed family after the crisis. Watching Bobby learn to be a dad is endearing. Ms. Gerard strikes just the right notes to fully charm readers. It is hugely satisfying to see Bobby, Talia, and Meir get their happily ever after.
Originally posted at Scandalicious Book Reviews
Goodness, I have missed Cindy Gerard. She takes her time writing her romantic suspense books and it shows in the quality of the read. This is a quintessential Cindy Gerard story. It’s detailed, emotive, and suspenseful. From the first word, I am completely suckered into the narrative. It doesn’t take long to set up the scenario in which two battle-weary people find solace with one another. Their experience as agents warns them to erect formidable emotional barriers, yet, when the walls come down, there is an intensity and depth reached in a very short time.
Bobby Taggart meets Talia Levine while working in the Middle East. He’s a security contractor and she is a journalist. After a week-long torrid affair, she disappears just after his mission goes awry. Turns out that Talia is a Mossad agent and she is the reason he fails his assignment and a renown terrorist is killed.
Six years later, in an act of revenge, the family members of the terrorist kidnap Talia’s son, Meir. She is on a new assignment for the American Embassy in Omar. Bobby is also sent there to work for the embassy and they reunite. Talia needs help getting back her son and she also needs to tell Bobby that he is Meir’s father.
I appreciate how Ms. Gerard sets up the story of two operatives working at for opposite goals and then forced into working together to resolve an intense family situation. The search for their son is fraught with danger and intrigue. However, this story also dives deep into the anguish of bitter betrayal and challenging forgiveness. Bobby radiates pain when he finds out that he has a son, and that Talia keeps Meir’s existence from him for five years shakes his faith even further. He is hurt and conflicted about Talia’s actions, and yet, he must work with her to get back Meir back.
There is a certain kind of ache when a relationship ends because of circumstances and not by choice. The couple is plagued by “what ifs” – what if they had met at a different time, place, situation – could they have worked then? Bad timing feels more tragic than if the relationship ends by mutual agreement:
Pride, loss, yearning. This time he couldn’t stop the tears. He lifted a hand to wipe them away; she stopped him. . . . He’d tried to hold on to the anger that had been his companion since she’d left him in Kabul, but he couldn’t. He knew she was sorry. . . . Sorry that everything they could’ve been together had be stolen by circumstance, duty, and war. Too much had happened between them to be forgotten. Too much to be forgiven.
Taggart’s inability to forgive Talia for what she has done is painful and yet, there is an aching desire to let it all go.
Adding a child to the scenario adds another layer of entanglement and some relief from the intensity of the narrative. Bobby is suddenly thrown into fatherhood and gets to experience the purity of a child’s affection. I love that the author devotes time with the newly formed family after the crisis. Watching Bobby learn to be a dad is endearing. Ms. Gerard strikes just the right notes to fully charm readers. It is hugely satisfying to see Bobby, Talia, and Meir get their happily ever after.
April 3, 2016
What a fantastic installment to the One Eyed Jacks series! It's an intricate tale of passion, secrets, and betrayal. Bobby and Talia share a few stolen nights together and each of them realize how intense their feelings are for each other, but for one of them, the entire connection has been a setup. When everything falls into place, that connection is severed and it is years until they meet up again...only then is the biggest betrayal of all uncovered.
I admit to having a hard time with the gravity of this particular betrayal, but by the end of the story, Gerard pulls me away from my comfort zone and drags me kicking and screaming into the love story of Bobby and Talia. And she makes me accept it. If you haven't delved into this phenomenal military romantic suspense author's books, do yourself a huge favor and start now.
Advance copy provided for review
I admit to having a hard time with the gravity of this particular betrayal, but by the end of the story, Gerard pulls me away from my comfort zone and drags me kicking and screaming into the love story of Bobby and Talia. And she makes me accept it. If you haven't delved into this phenomenal military romantic suspense author's books, do yourself a huge favor and start now.
Advance copy provided for review
February 7, 2016
Loved Bobby and Talia's story. Talia had to betray him during a liaison they had while he was on a mission. She changed a lot as a result of their encounter and found herself in love and withholding a secret from him. They meet gain years later and under difficult circumstances. She needs his help desperately. They also need to work through the anger and resentment that Bobby feels toward Talia. It's not easy for him to let go of it. Even as they work through some of the other lingering issues. The story was powerful. The writing superb. It was action packed and exciting. Characterized well and paced on point. Truly enjoyable.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2017
Ms. Gerard's book tend to be hit or miss for me. I was really thrilled to find that Taking Fire was a hit. I liked the plot and the characters and found I was really pulled into this one and didn't want to put it down.
This book is broken out into three parts: Betrayal, Retribution, and Redemption. The parts focus on a different aspect of Talia's and Bobby's story and flow well together.
The first part is Betrayal where Bobby and Talia meet in Kabul and starts really strong with the meeting, heat and deception between Talia and Bobby. They are both on a mission but for different agencies and governments. Their target is the same man, but Bobby's goal is intelligence based for the US and Talia's goal is for her organization to revenge kill the terrorist. To get to their man, Talia is to target Bobby as a source. The problem is it got personal and they both felt like they were falling in love. Talia's mission cost them both. Bobby and Talia were well developed and I immediately liked them and felt vested in their story. This was a good start and it really pulled me into their story.
The second part of the story is Retribution and this section is the main aspect of the whole story. Starting 6 years after they first met, Talia and Bobby are thrown together again as they are both at the American Embassy in Oman when it gets bombed. The bomber's target is Talia due to her prior mission in Kabul. Now Talia has to admit to Bobby they had a son together and the clock is ticking as he has been kidnapped by the bombers and are holding him hostage. The action was good, the discovery that past feelings are warring with current emotions and this was definitely really, really good.
Part 3 Redemption was more like a long, drawn out epilogue. It was a little too much of angst on Bobby's part where he couldn't forgive her for what happened 6 years ago. I was wanting more interaction before the redemption, but this didn't work for me as it was more mental angst that I would have liked.
In the end this was still a solid 4 star read for me and I'm hoping for more of this caliber from Ms. Gerard.
This book is broken out into three parts: Betrayal, Retribution, and Redemption. The parts focus on a different aspect of Talia's and Bobby's story and flow well together.
The first part is Betrayal where Bobby and Talia meet in Kabul and starts really strong with the meeting, heat and deception between Talia and Bobby. They are both on a mission but for different agencies and governments. Their target is the same man, but Bobby's goal is intelligence based for the US and Talia's goal is for her organization to revenge kill the terrorist. To get to their man, Talia is to target Bobby as a source. The problem is it got personal and they both felt like they were falling in love. Talia's mission cost them both. Bobby and Talia were well developed and I immediately liked them and felt vested in their story. This was a good start and it really pulled me into their story.
The second part of the story is Retribution and this section is the main aspect of the whole story. Starting 6 years after they first met, Talia and Bobby are thrown together again as they are both at the American Embassy in Oman when it gets bombed. The bomber's target is Talia due to her prior mission in Kabul. Now Talia has to admit to Bobby they had a son together and the clock is ticking as he has been kidnapped by the bombers and are holding him hostage. The action was good, the discovery that past feelings are warring with current emotions and this was definitely really, really good.
Part 3 Redemption was more like a long, drawn out epilogue. It was a little too much of angst on Bobby's part where he couldn't forgive her for what happened 6 years ago. I was wanting more interaction before the redemption, but this didn't work for me as it was more mental angst that I would have liked.
In the end this was still a solid 4 star read for me and I'm hoping for more of this caliber from Ms. Gerard.
February 13, 2016
I have become a huge fan this author. This is only my second or third book by her but I am addicted. She has the magic touch when it comes to combining military action with smoking hot alpha males. She gives each vulnerability and with this book, Bobby was very vulnerable, not to mention smitten with Talia, even after her betrayal. With plenty of steamy hot scenes, military action, intense thrills and suspense you cringe with, this book has it all.
However, this book isn’t just about action and romance. It also shows that everyone needs somebody. Being brave enough to let go and allow a connection to develop while letting your feelings shine through isn’t just for women.
This was a emotional read in many ways. You’re able to connect so closely with the characters. Your heart is in your throat and on your sleeve, right along with them. I think that’s why this is has just become one of my favorite books I have read in a long time.
Cindy Gerard is the queen of suspense military action romance, my favorite genre, and this book a shining example of the reason why. Just cannot get enough of Bobby or this authors writing!
However, this book isn’t just about action and romance. It also shows that everyone needs somebody. Being brave enough to let go and allow a connection to develop while letting your feelings shine through isn’t just for women.
This was a emotional read in many ways. You’re able to connect so closely with the characters. Your heart is in your throat and on your sleeve, right along with them. I think that’s why this is has just become one of my favorite books I have read in a long time.
Cindy Gerard is the queen of suspense military action romance, my favorite genre, and this book a shining example of the reason why. Just cannot get enough of Bobby or this authors writing!
February 22, 2016
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cindy Gerard in channeling her inner Ziva David from the CBS TV show NCIS as Talia Levine and I LOVE it. I am also feeling Channing Tatum as Bobby Taggert. This book is one wild ride and all I can say is MORE!
After meeting in Kabul and having a one week torrid affair Bobby Taggert finds himself alone and with a failed mission and he is pretty sure that Talia Levine is the reason. Fast forward 6 years and they come face to face at the US Embassy in Oman. Then BOOM! literally. The embassy explodes around them and that is just the beginning of the lightening fast pace that has everyone on the Black Ops team rushing to save Talia's son and get those responsible for the bombing.
How is Bobby supposed to forgive her for not only ruining his mission in Kabul but keeping secrets from him as well. When all is said and done, do these two have a second chance? Bobby has a tough time keeping the mission in mind and not getting lost in his anger/lust for Talia. Forgiveness is a long way away.
Cindy Gerard in channeling her inner Ziva David from the CBS TV show NCIS as Talia Levine and I LOVE it. I am also feeling Channing Tatum as Bobby Taggert. This book is one wild ride and all I can say is MORE!
After meeting in Kabul and having a one week torrid affair Bobby Taggert finds himself alone and with a failed mission and he is pretty sure that Talia Levine is the reason. Fast forward 6 years and they come face to face at the US Embassy in Oman. Then BOOM! literally. The embassy explodes around them and that is just the beginning of the lightening fast pace that has everyone on the Black Ops team rushing to save Talia's son and get those responsible for the bombing.
How is Bobby supposed to forgive her for not only ruining his mission in Kabul but keeping secrets from him as well. When all is said and done, do these two have a second chance? Bobby has a tough time keeping the mission in mind and not getting lost in his anger/lust for Talia. Forgiveness is a long way away.
February 4, 2016
41/2 stars
May 11, 2016
Another excellent read from Miss Gerard. She remains my go-to author for romantic suspense and doesn't disappoint here. Thoroughly enjoyed this one, excellent story, tons of action, exotic locations and a rekindled romance. What I really appreciated about this story was how it wasn't just over and all HEA once the mission was completed, Gerard took the time to give us a real ending with Talia and Bobby working through their relationship and in my opinion reaching a believable conclusion.
June 4, 2017
3.5 Stars. Good enough read, straightforward and hits all the right spots. A small annoyance (for me) in Gerard's books is that all the series continue into the next one, including plotlines and characters. I would love to see each book as a more self-contained read.
I enjoyed it, though. I'm a sucker for 'second chance at love' stories. Bobby Taggart has been around as a secondary character forever, glad he finally got his own story.
I enjoyed it, though. I'm a sucker for 'second chance at love' stories. Bobby Taggart has been around as a secondary character forever, glad he finally got his own story.
November 30, 2016
3.5 stars
March 2, 2016
Taking Fire is the fourth book in Cindy Gerard's One-Eyed Jacks series, featuring the last of the One-Eyed Jacks, Bobby Taggart. I LOVED this
series and was also glad to get cameos from her Black Ops. series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, but this series is so GOOD that I fully recommend reading ALL of them. Especially concerning Bobby's book because it takes place before AND after the One-Eyed Jacks reunite.
Betrayal
Six years ago in Kabal, while working for a private military company, Bobby Taggart met a woman, fell in love, and then she disappeared from his life. All within a week. Bobby never expects to see Talia again and is shocked to see her at the United States Embassy in Oman, right before it is bombed.
Retribution
For six years, Talia Levine has carried the guilt of her betrayal. She had a choice between her heart or her mission, and she made it at the sacrifice of her heart. But her real identity wasn't the only thing she has kept for Bobby. Bobby has held on to his hurt and (believed) hatred for the woman that made him fall in love and And when a terrorist attacks the US Embassy in Oman, she has no choice but to put her complete trust in the man that she betrayed six years ago.
And as the threat closes in around them, more secrets come to light.
Redemption
Will Bobby be able to move past Talia's betrayal and secrets in order to be with the woman he fell in love with six years ago. And will Talia be able to put her complete trust in Bobby to be the man she needs?
Cindy Gerard is the queen of action-packed romantic suspense novels and Taking Fire is no different. I really loved reading Bobby and Talia's story and how they had to overcome their past for a chance for a future together.
Rating: 5 out of 5
**I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.**
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series and was also glad to get cameos from her Black Ops. series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, but this series is so GOOD that I fully recommend reading ALL of them. Especially concerning Bobby's book because it takes place before AND after the One-Eyed Jacks reunite.
Betrayal
Six years ago in Kabal, while working for a private military company, Bobby Taggart met a woman, fell in love, and then she disappeared from his life. All within a week. Bobby never expects to see Talia again and is shocked to see her at the United States Embassy in Oman, right before it is bombed.
Retribution
For six years, Talia Levine has carried the guilt of her betrayal. She had a choice between her heart or her mission, and she made it at the sacrifice of her heart. But her real identity wasn't the only thing she has kept for Bobby. Bobby has held on to his hurt and (believed) hatred for the woman that made him fall in love and And when a terrorist attacks the US Embassy in Oman, she has no choice but to put her complete trust in the man that she betrayed six years ago.
And as the threat closes in around them, more secrets come to light.
Redemption
Will Bobby be able to move past Talia's betrayal and secrets in order to be with the woman he fell in love with six years ago. And will Talia be able to put her complete trust in Bobby to be the man she needs?
Cindy Gerard is the queen of action-packed romantic suspense novels and Taking Fire is no different. I really loved reading Bobby and Talia's story and how they had to overcome their past for a chance for a future together.
Rating: 5 out of 5
**I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.**
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February 6, 2016
Cindy Gerard is definitely one of the best writers of romantic suspense out there. In that specific genre there needs to be a balance between romance and suspense and sometimes that just isn’t the case. However, Cindy Gerard proved with this book that that balance can exist. I think that my favorite aspect of the book was how well the author compartmentalized the story into different parts. You’re allowed glimpses into the different stages of Talia and Bobby’s love story.
Talia and Bobby’s love story had a very interesting start and you’re able to see how it develops and grows throughout the story. On their own, both Talia and Bobby showed a great deal of character growth which I thorough enjoyed reading about. It gave them a different dimension and made the story more interesting.
I did have a couple of issues with the story. One of them being that it was a bit too much like insta-love for my liking (not a spoiler since the summary hints at that), even though it made sense for the length of the story I’m not of a fan of insta-love. I also thought Bobby forgave Talia far too easily, especially after all of the things that he went through because of her. Usually I like when my hero’s grovel in stories but in this one I would have preferred that the heroine would have groveled. I also didn’t buy all of the reasons she gave for doing things that she did. So I wouldn’t say she was my favorite Cindy Gerard heroine but I didn’t hate her either.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it to readers who love romantic suspense.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Talia and Bobby’s love story had a very interesting start and you’re able to see how it develops and grows throughout the story. On their own, both Talia and Bobby showed a great deal of character growth which I thorough enjoyed reading about. It gave them a different dimension and made the story more interesting.
I did have a couple of issues with the story. One of them being that it was a bit too much like insta-love for my liking (not a spoiler since the summary hints at that), even though it made sense for the length of the story I’m not of a fan of insta-love. I also thought Bobby forgave Talia far too easily, especially after all of the things that he went through because of her. Usually I like when my hero’s grovel in stories but in this one I would have preferred that the heroine would have groveled. I also didn’t buy all of the reasons she gave for doing things that she did. So I wouldn’t say she was my favorite Cindy Gerard heroine but I didn’t hate her either.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it to readers who love romantic suspense.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2017
A very well written, fast paced and intense military action romance book.
I am not usually a fan of military action books, but this book is very well written, it has realistic characters, realistic action, real tension and mystery.
The action scenes are handled and written very well by the writer, I had thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I am not usually a fan of military action books, but this book is very well written, it has realistic characters, realistic action, real tension and mystery.
The action scenes are handled and written very well by the writer, I had thoroughly enjoyed this book.
February 20, 2017
Taking Fire is the third book in Cindy Gerard’s One-Eyed Jacks series but can easily be read as a stand-alone. I haven’t read any of the previous books but other than wondering how the One-Eyed Jacks all got back together I didn’t feel like I missed anything. However, I will say that after reading this book I will definitely be going back and reading the first two!
This book centers around Bobby Taggert who was dishonorably discharged when a mission went wrong and several of his teammates were killed. He now works for a civilian group in Kabul. When he meets a woman in the local watering hole he is suspicious of her but also very attracted to her. Their one night together turns into a week together and Bobby is falling hard until she betrays him.
Talia is a Mossad agent who regrets what she did to Bobby but she made a choice to compete her mission and honor her country. Six years later she comes face to face with Bobby at the U.S Embassy in Oman. Within minutes of their meeting a bomb goes off. Talia knows that she was the intended target and Bobby may be the only one who can help her. However, Bobby never got over her betrayal and he is still angry and resentful and Talia still has one more secret she’s been hiding.
Both Talia and Bobby are wonderfully complex characters that had me routing for them from the beginning. Talia is tough and very capable and easily believed as a Mossad agent but she’s also has a vulnerability and a softer side that keeps her from being too tough. She deeply regrets what she did to Bobby but the author does an outstanding job of helping the reader understand her reasons and motivations behind her decisions. Bobby is also a tough Alpha male character who has faced a lot of betrayal in his life and is struggling with feelings he has for Talia because they are so complicated.
I love a second chance romance and this one is so complex and emotional! The feelings that both of these characters have are not simple. The author doesn’t take the easy way out and let the characters just move on and forgive. Bobby still has an emotional connection to Talia but he doesn’t think he can every forgiver her. I loved that he didn’t punish her for her past actions, in fact he was there for her when she needed him the most and supports her. He also completely behind helping her and keeping her safe but he keeps an emotional distance as he works through his anger and the hurt feelings he still has. I loved the complexity of Bobby’s emotions and his struggle to let go of the past. It was heartfelt, realistic and truly beautiful. The author took her time with Bobby and Talia’s relationship and the pacing was perfect. Add in a backdrop of an action packed mission, bad guys that need to be caught and the rest of Bobby’s team and you have the recipe for an outstanding story. One that I was unable to put down.
So if you’re looking for an action packed, fast paced, emotional romance with truly complex characters that does so much more than the typical military storyline look no further. I highly recommend Taking Fire! In fact I’m going to go buy the first two books right now and can’t wait to dive in.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this book in return for a fair review.
This book centers around Bobby Taggert who was dishonorably discharged when a mission went wrong and several of his teammates were killed. He now works for a civilian group in Kabul. When he meets a woman in the local watering hole he is suspicious of her but also very attracted to her. Their one night together turns into a week together and Bobby is falling hard until she betrays him.
Talia is a Mossad agent who regrets what she did to Bobby but she made a choice to compete her mission and honor her country. Six years later she comes face to face with Bobby at the U.S Embassy in Oman. Within minutes of their meeting a bomb goes off. Talia knows that she was the intended target and Bobby may be the only one who can help her. However, Bobby never got over her betrayal and he is still angry and resentful and Talia still has one more secret she’s been hiding.
Both Talia and Bobby are wonderfully complex characters that had me routing for them from the beginning. Talia is tough and very capable and easily believed as a Mossad agent but she’s also has a vulnerability and a softer side that keeps her from being too tough. She deeply regrets what she did to Bobby but the author does an outstanding job of helping the reader understand her reasons and motivations behind her decisions. Bobby is also a tough Alpha male character who has faced a lot of betrayal in his life and is struggling with feelings he has for Talia because they are so complicated.
I love a second chance romance and this one is so complex and emotional! The feelings that both of these characters have are not simple. The author doesn’t take the easy way out and let the characters just move on and forgive. Bobby still has an emotional connection to Talia but he doesn’t think he can every forgiver her. I loved that he didn’t punish her for her past actions, in fact he was there for her when she needed him the most and supports her. He also completely behind helping her and keeping her safe but he keeps an emotional distance as he works through his anger and the hurt feelings he still has. I loved the complexity of Bobby’s emotions and his struggle to let go of the past. It was heartfelt, realistic and truly beautiful. The author took her time with Bobby and Talia’s relationship and the pacing was perfect. Add in a backdrop of an action packed mission, bad guys that need to be caught and the rest of Bobby’s team and you have the recipe for an outstanding story. One that I was unable to put down.
So if you’re looking for an action packed, fast paced, emotional romance with truly complex characters that does so much more than the typical military storyline look no further. I highly recommend Taking Fire! In fact I’m going to go buy the first two books right now and can’t wait to dive in.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this book in return for a fair review.
December 21, 2015
This was my first Gerard book and I couldn't put it down. It was filled with nonstop suspense and surprises at every turn.
Bobby is a military contractor and is currently on a job overseas. Normally women are a distraction and you can never tell if you are being set up but there is something about Talia that draws him in.
Talia is working a job and her supervisors want information that Bobby has. She is to do whatever it takes to get that even if it means sleeping with him. As the week goes on the more she falls for him but when Bobby returns back to the hotel room she is gone.
One of the things I loved about this book was it was done in 3 parts: when Bobby and Talia meet, then 6 years later , and the end. There story was filled with love, betrayal and terrorist at every turn.
Gerard did a fantastic job in describing even the tiniest details that helped make this book feel real. I loved the characters and how they came together. I didn't find anything about this book that was boring or slow. I was dying to know what would happen with every turn of the page.
Since this was the first book I have read in this series I had no idea who the previous characters were from the earlier books but I did love their funny banter and how well they worked together while on missions.
Yes this is a romantic suspense but it was more of the suspense that captured me. The ending was done well and all things that were left undecided were wrapped up. After reading this I definitely want to start this series from the beginning and enjoy the ride Gerard takes me on.
A pre order must for 2016!!
Bobby is a military contractor and is currently on a job overseas. Normally women are a distraction and you can never tell if you are being set up but there is something about Talia that draws him in.
Talia is working a job and her supervisors want information that Bobby has. She is to do whatever it takes to get that even if it means sleeping with him. As the week goes on the more she falls for him but when Bobby returns back to the hotel room she is gone.
One of the things I loved about this book was it was done in 3 parts: when Bobby and Talia meet, then 6 years later , and the end. There story was filled with love, betrayal and terrorist at every turn.
Gerard did a fantastic job in describing even the tiniest details that helped make this book feel real. I loved the characters and how they came together. I didn't find anything about this book that was boring or slow. I was dying to know what would happen with every turn of the page.
Since this was the first book I have read in this series I had no idea who the previous characters were from the earlier books but I did love their funny banter and how well they worked together while on missions.
Yes this is a romantic suspense but it was more of the suspense that captured me. The ending was done well and all things that were left undecided were wrapped up. After reading this I definitely want to start this series from the beginning and enjoy the ride Gerard takes me on.
A pre order must for 2016!!
December 15, 2015
I've not read the rest of the One-eyed Jacks books, but from what I can surmise, it's pretty much a BOI team add on that still goes on mission after mission--only sort of sanctioned this time-- with some of the beloved old crew still in attendance.
For all the updated details on world politics and counterterrorism, 'Taking Fire' is in fact, quite a simple one without convoluted plots and sub-plots that tend to ruin many a book in the romantic suspense genre.
Played for a fool 6 years ago, an untimely reunion with the woman responsible for that brings too many revelations that Bobby Taggart isn't quite able to take in when an embassy bombing quite literally threw them back together. But discovering that he has actually had a son with her takes the cake...and getting that son back has to take priority above the betrayal he's never been able to forget, despite the turmoil that her return brings.
I've always liked Cindy Gerard's action-packed writing and the soulful characters she creates. Bobby Taggart is another winner, written with an admirable load of maturity, even if I couldn't say the same for Talia Levine, whose deceptions, all-too-late-remorse and tendency to get into hysterics at times just didn't really endear me to her. It was however, good to see the rest of the BOI team again but having jumped straight into this book, I felt as though I missed out a load of vital details and context that could have made me appreciate the book a lot more.
*ARC by netgalley
(So grateful as always, mind)
For all the updated details on world politics and counterterrorism, 'Taking Fire' is in fact, quite a simple one without convoluted plots and sub-plots that tend to ruin many a book in the romantic suspense genre.
Played for a fool 6 years ago, an untimely reunion with the woman responsible for that brings too many revelations that Bobby Taggart isn't quite able to take in when an embassy bombing quite literally threw them back together. But discovering that he has actually had a son with her takes the cake...and getting that son back has to take priority above the betrayal he's never been able to forget, despite the turmoil that her return brings.
I've always liked Cindy Gerard's action-packed writing and the soulful characters she creates. Bobby Taggart is another winner, written with an admirable load of maturity, even if I couldn't say the same for Talia Levine, whose deceptions, all-too-late-remorse and tendency to get into hysterics at times just didn't really endear me to her. It was however, good to see the rest of the BOI team again but having jumped straight into this book, I felt as though I missed out a load of vital details and context that could have made me appreciate the book a lot more.
*ARC by netgalley
(So grateful as always, mind)
February 23, 2016
Another great piece to this series.
Bobby Taggert was a great hero. Both in the romantic sense and in the real-life sense. His pain and heart break were hard to read, but so very understandable. I loved that he was finally able to get over the hurt and anger. I totally get why Talia did what she did...both in Kabul and afterwards. She was strong and smart and I really liked her. She had her share of heart break and pain as well. I hope she can become part of the team eventually.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Bobby Taggert was a great hero. Both in the romantic sense and in the real-life sense. His pain and heart break were hard to read, but so very understandable. I loved that he was finally able to get over the hurt and anger. I totally get why Talia did what she did...both in Kabul and afterwards. She was strong and smart and I really liked her. She had her share of heart break and pain as well. I hope she can become part of the team eventually.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
March 25, 2016
Cindy Gerard just writes solid military romantic suspense. This one was great. The action sequences are believable and well thought out. The relationships between characters both professionally and personally are well done. I loved the hero here. He was open to a relationship and struggled to overcome his negative feelings after he was hurt. The heroine was also well done with believable motivations and actions.
Very well done.
Very well done.
March 9, 2016
While not the strongest book in the series it was still a compelling read. It is a Gerard after all.
September 16, 2017
(Aug) Ok, I'll be honest - my favorite thing about RS books is the bromance between the guys on the team. However, so many of these groups are similar that I find myself mixing up who goes with who and what previous missions (and hook ups) each group has had. I mix these guys up with her Black Ops guys and some of Maya Banks guys and other groups of badass military guys I've spent time with!
I don't really remember all that happened in the 3 books before this, but decided it doesn't really matter. Years before, Bobby met Talia and she used him to get secret information. There were growing feelings on both sides, but as an agent Talia did what she had to do and Bobby had to accept that he was played. Now, due to work, they meet again, and Bobby has no reason to trust her. However, they are going to have to figure out how to make it work. However, Talia's son is kidnapped and Bobby works with her to help rescue the boy. His feelings for her come rushing back, but so does his hurt and feelings of betrayal. Can he get past this to find love again? Of course he can!
There was good action and I liked both Bobby and Talia. My only real issue with this book is
I don't really remember all that happened in the 3 books before this, but decided it doesn't really matter. Years before, Bobby met Talia and she used him to get secret information. There were growing feelings on both sides, but as an agent Talia did what she had to do and Bobby had to accept that he was played. Now, due to work, they meet again, and Bobby has no reason to trust her. However, they are going to have to figure out how to make it work. However, Talia's son is kidnapped and Bobby works with her to help rescue the boy. His feelings for her come rushing back, but so does his hurt and feelings of betrayal. Can he get past this to find love again? Of course he can!
There was good action and I liked both Bobby and Talia. My only real issue with this book is
January 29, 2016
"The more you trust, the greater the betrayal.4.5 Stars
The more you love, the greater the harm."
Taking Fire is a fast-paced story of duty, love, betrayal, retribution and redemption. It is by far the best book in One-Eyed Jacks series. I so didn't regret having to go back and read book #1-#3 prior to reading this one!
On the first part of the story, the author brought together the third One-Eyed Jacks member still alive, Bobby Taggart, with Talia Levine in war-torn Kabul. Their sort yet sizzling affairs had left both with bad taste and broken heart. Which didn't help matter when they bumped into each other in Muscat, seconds before things escalated and blew up on them. Literally.
Now, I usually abhorred deception in a character. And Talia here came with a couple of them. Call it a duty, necessity, or whatever, but she chose to do it. But I could understand where she's coming from and symphatized.
I also usually hated the inability to move on from a character. Bobby did that. As much as he loved Talia, he had a hard time to move on from that ugly past and resent her for it. Again, I could totally get him and didn't envy his plight.
The circumstances and these two (characters) made the story more real and gripping, made these two fictional people real ones, facing what people involved in conflict areas could be facing. They made hard choices, lived with them, owned them.
The story was told in alternate POVs between the MCs as third persons. So readers got to see inside their head, their hurt, frustration, their feeling; and they were not pretty. Again, these present them as real couple.
Although, as much as I'm on board with the author making Bobby and Talia not as super operatives, I was a bit miffed that Bobby took most of casualty role in the pictures. Both were bad ass professionals and, perhaps being the male, Bobby stepped up more to the plate. Still, I wished he's hurt less than shown here. ;-)
On emotional level, the deep feeling they had for each other might seem too soon if not for the background situation. The premises made it believable. I would probably argue were this to happen in different setting with less action-packed scenes. But here, perfectly understandable. And the mix of emotions Bobby and Talia had with their dilemma? It got to me. Heck, I sniffled one or two times during reading!
Another thing that I loved about this series was the brotherhood always had portions on the story. Of course, the cliché was there: the elite team with state of the art equipment who got the job done. Still, I loved how the team always pull through together, even with scars and bruises.
Now I feel like going further back and read Cindy Gerard's Black Ops series and get to know the other team member and their partner/spouse better. :-)
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
December 12, 2015
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
By and large I really enjoy Cindy Gerard's books but the second One-Eyed Jacks book didn't really work for me and I abandoned it fairly early on so I was in some trepidation when I requested this from NetGalley - would it be hit or miss?
I am pleased to say I loved this book. Recently I have read a few military/spec-ops romances and the heroes always seem to be ridiculously tortured and angst with overdoses of domineering male. What a welcome relief then to meet Bobby Taggart who has some stuff in his past but is refreshingly free from domineering angst.
The novel starts six years ago in Kabul, Talia is on a mission to seduce Taggart, at first her motivations are unclear - who does she work for? Why is she seducing Taggart? I had loads of theories none of which were right. Although the book blurb sets out the scenario for that time in straightforward detail I feel like setting it out here would be a bit of a spoiler so I'll desist. Nevertheless, Talia gets what she wants and disappears into the night, but both of them have fallen a little bit in love.
Fast forward six years and Bobby is visiting the US Embassy in Oman as part of his job for ITAP, his friend is head of security and happens to mention the new Security Investigator Talia Levine. Bobby is drawn to see the woman who played him for a fool six years ago but before they can do more than stare at each other a bomb goes off.
The book is bang up to date with mentions of Hamas and ISIS and terrorist funding. It was fast moving and engrossing. But what made me like it even more than the wonderful Bobby Taggart was that Talia remained a strong capable woman throughout instead of degenerating into a helpless female. We've all read those books where the heroine starts as a CIA operative or the greatest assassin in the world but by the end of the novel she needs a man to save her or protect her from the baddies - well this is most definitely NOT one of them.
Even better, after the baddies have been defeated and the day saved, there is more relationship development - probably more than I have seen in one of these type of books before. Bobby still needs to overcome his anger at what Talia did six years ago and he just can't overcome it - but he acts like a grown-up about it. Maybe that's why I liked this so much. Talia and Bobby were grown-ups. They argued, they were angry, they had issues but they didn't act like teenagers and they got the job done.
So, in conclusion, if you like kick-ass heroes and heroines who go up against terrorists and talk about military equipment but are tired of petulant alpha-male posturing accompanied by teenage sulking then this is definitely the book for you.
I guarantee you'll love Bobby and Talia and most definitely want to invite them round for a pot-luck or maybe a barbecue. Now I need to go back and pick up book 2 again - really want to find out which couple is in that one.
By and large I really enjoy Cindy Gerard's books but the second One-Eyed Jacks book didn't really work for me and I abandoned it fairly early on so I was in some trepidation when I requested this from NetGalley - would it be hit or miss?
I am pleased to say I loved this book. Recently I have read a few military/spec-ops romances and the heroes always seem to be ridiculously tortured and angst with overdoses of domineering male. What a welcome relief then to meet Bobby Taggart who has some stuff in his past but is refreshingly free from domineering angst.
The novel starts six years ago in Kabul, Talia is on a mission to seduce Taggart, at first her motivations are unclear - who does she work for? Why is she seducing Taggart? I had loads of theories none of which were right. Although the book blurb sets out the scenario for that time in straightforward detail I feel like setting it out here would be a bit of a spoiler so I'll desist. Nevertheless, Talia gets what she wants and disappears into the night, but both of them have fallen a little bit in love.
Fast forward six years and Bobby is visiting the US Embassy in Oman as part of his job for ITAP, his friend is head of security and happens to mention the new Security Investigator Talia Levine. Bobby is drawn to see the woman who played him for a fool six years ago but before they can do more than stare at each other a bomb goes off.
The book is bang up to date with mentions of Hamas and ISIS and terrorist funding. It was fast moving and engrossing. But what made me like it even more than the wonderful Bobby Taggart was that Talia remained a strong capable woman throughout instead of degenerating into a helpless female. We've all read those books where the heroine starts as a CIA operative or the greatest assassin in the world but by the end of the novel she needs a man to save her or protect her from the baddies - well this is most definitely NOT one of them.
Even better, after the baddies have been defeated and the day saved, there is more relationship development - probably more than I have seen in one of these type of books before. Bobby still needs to overcome his anger at what Talia did six years ago and he just can't overcome it - but he acts like a grown-up about it. Maybe that's why I liked this so much. Talia and Bobby were grown-ups. They argued, they were angry, they had issues but they didn't act like teenagers and they got the job done.
So, in conclusion, if you like kick-ass heroes and heroines who go up against terrorists and talk about military equipment but are tired of petulant alpha-male posturing accompanied by teenage sulking then this is definitely the book for you.
I guarantee you'll love Bobby and Talia and most definitely want to invite them round for a pot-luck or maybe a barbecue. Now I need to go back and pick up book 2 again - really want to find out which couple is in that one.
July 3, 2018
Holy smokes!!
Talk about action-packed suspense and gut-wringing emotion! This book had it all.
After Boom-Boom (Bobby Taggert) is betrayed by a woman in Kabul he vows never to fall victim to a pretty face again. So imagine his shock when he runs into the same war correspondent-turned-spy six years later, moments before a bomb detonates and almost wipes him off the face of the planet?
Talia Levine knows Bobby has a reason to hate her, even more than he can guess. But when militant soldiers steal her son she has no choice other than turning to Bobby for help.
Can these two find a way to overcome past mistakes in order to save a boy and maybe find a chance at a future together, or will the evil chasing them win the battle?
Stories like this gave me my love of romantic suspense. There's so much raw emotion it practically bleeds right off the page, and overlaying that is a life and death situation to kick up the heart rate and keep me up way past my bedtime!
I give Taking Fire 5+ lovely Kisses- Fantastic!!
Talk about action-packed suspense and gut-wringing emotion! This book had it all.
After Boom-Boom (Bobby Taggert) is betrayed by a woman in Kabul he vows never to fall victim to a pretty face again. So imagine his shock when he runs into the same war correspondent-turned-spy six years later, moments before a bomb detonates and almost wipes him off the face of the planet?
Talia Levine knows Bobby has a reason to hate her, even more than he can guess. But when militant soldiers steal her son she has no choice other than turning to Bobby for help.
Can these two find a way to overcome past mistakes in order to save a boy and maybe find a chance at a future together, or will the evil chasing them win the battle?
Stories like this gave me my love of romantic suspense. There's so much raw emotion it practically bleeds right off the page, and overlaying that is a life and death situation to kick up the heart rate and keep me up way past my bedtime!
I give Taking Fire 5+ lovely Kisses- Fantastic!!
July 31, 2016
~ Book generously provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion
It's confession time, guys: I have had the ARC of Taking Fire since around January and only just finished it. My reason for being so late was the fact that I was afraid. Afraid of not liking it. I loved Cindy Gerard's BOI's series and I didn't want to be disappointed by Taking Fire. Also I haven't read the three previous books of the One-Eyed Jacks series.
Now after reading it I wish I could travel back in time and scold my old self for not starting this book earlier. Except for the overly long prologue - lasted till 27% - I liked Taking Fire a lot.
It was action-packed, the suspense was high and I really like the pair this book featured.
I can't really say anything about the story without it being a major spoiler, except maybe that I liked how it and the characters developed. The ending was really awesome.
What I also liked was though this is an action book it focused more around the character relationships then other books of the same genre I know. I liked it.
Cindy Gerard's writing style was as captivative as ever and I really like how she writes the bantering between the team members, hilarious.
Overall a really interesting book I'd wished I picked up earlier, but better late than never, right, guys?
Rating: 4 stars
It's confession time, guys: I have had the ARC of Taking Fire since around January and only just finished it. My reason for being so late was the fact that I was afraid. Afraid of not liking it. I loved Cindy Gerard's BOI's series and I didn't want to be disappointed by Taking Fire. Also I haven't read the three previous books of the One-Eyed Jacks series.
Now after reading it I wish I could travel back in time and scold my old self for not starting this book earlier. Except for the overly long prologue - lasted till 27% - I liked Taking Fire a lot.
It was action-packed, the suspense was high and I really like the pair this book featured.
I can't really say anything about the story without it being a major spoiler, except maybe that I liked how it and the characters developed. The ending was really awesome.
What I also liked was though this is an action book it focused more around the character relationships then other books of the same genre I know. I liked it.
Cindy Gerard's writing style was as captivative as ever and I really like how she writes the bantering between the team members, hilarious.
Overall a really interesting book I'd wished I picked up earlier, but better late than never, right, guys?
Rating: 4 stars
March 2, 2016
TAKING FIRE was a solid read.
Bobby, a military contractor, and Talia meet six years ago in Kabul. They have an instant and magnetic connection. When Bobby’s job goes south he realizes that this attractive woman may have more to do with it than he wants to believe. But he doesn’t get to confront her, because when he goes back to her hotel… she’s gone.
Now, Bobby is on a covert security mission for the U.S. Embassy in Oman when he runs into the woman who betrayed him years ago. Before they have a chance to talk, the embassy is bombed, leaving Bobby and Talia rushing to look for the people who did it, and for someone very important to them both.
**
Like I mentioned, TAKING FIRE was a fantastic story. It was full of action and emotion. Once I started it I couldn’t put it down.
Talia is such a kicka** woman and she was so interesting to read about. She was tough but not over the top. And when she and special ops, alpha Bobby got together it meant for a very awesome story.
If you’re looking for a quick paced, action packed story for of emotion and twists you have to read TAKING FIRE
Bobby, a military contractor, and Talia meet six years ago in Kabul. They have an instant and magnetic connection. When Bobby’s job goes south he realizes that this attractive woman may have more to do with it than he wants to believe. But he doesn’t get to confront her, because when he goes back to her hotel… she’s gone.
Now, Bobby is on a covert security mission for the U.S. Embassy in Oman when he runs into the woman who betrayed him years ago. Before they have a chance to talk, the embassy is bombed, leaving Bobby and Talia rushing to look for the people who did it, and for someone very important to them both.
**
Like I mentioned, TAKING FIRE was a fantastic story. It was full of action and emotion. Once I started it I couldn’t put it down.
Talia is such a kicka** woman and she was so interesting to read about. She was tough but not over the top. And when she and special ops, alpha Bobby got together it meant for a very awesome story.
If you’re looking for a quick paced, action packed story for of emotion and twists you have to read TAKING FIRE
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