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The D.I.R.E. Agency #6.5
Special Agent: Austin (The DIRE Agency Series Book 7)
He’s armed with the truth.
She’s plagued by deception.
Ready to make amends, Austin Rose is a changed man, hoping to land an elite position with the D.I.R.E. Agency. To prove himself and secure a position, he must force the assassin hired to destroy them to surrender her top secret intel.
Assassin Belle Mason’s life changed forever after a botched hit. Determined to take down D.I.R.E. while it’s vulnerable and exposed, Belle will stop at nothing to create a new life for her family. But, the forbidden and irresistible Austin Rose has a few tricks of his own, turning the tables and revealing the truth about her past.
Refusing to let anyone stand in his way of securing a position with the agency, Austin goes undercover—literally–to find the culprits threatening to destroy them. However, when Belle puts herself in the line of fire, Austin realizes there’s more than intel at stake.
Will he find a way to protect the woman who’s stolen his heart, or will his betrayal destroy them both?
She’s plagued by deception.
Ready to make amends, Austin Rose is a changed man, hoping to land an elite position with the D.I.R.E. Agency. To prove himself and secure a position, he must force the assassin hired to destroy them to surrender her top secret intel.
Assassin Belle Mason’s life changed forever after a botched hit. Determined to take down D.I.R.E. while it’s vulnerable and exposed, Belle will stop at nothing to create a new life for her family. But, the forbidden and irresistible Austin Rose has a few tricks of his own, turning the tables and revealing the truth about her past.
Refusing to let anyone stand in his way of securing a position with the agency, Austin goes undercover—literally–to find the culprits threatening to destroy them. However, when Belle puts herself in the line of fire, Austin realizes there’s more than intel at stake.
Will he find a way to protect the woman who’s stolen his heart, or will his betrayal destroy them both?
- GenresScience FictionRomance
115 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2016
2 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 1, 2016
This guilty pleasure of a series is back with Austin Rose trying to follow big brother, Jayden's footsteps and earn a place on the elite DIRE team. In town for Riordan's wedding and planning to surprise Jayden, when he showed up with Jayden's fiancé Hope Powers, Austin falls for assassin Belle Mason's scam.
Belle's mission to infiltrate the agency for takedown targeting Hope as the link is thrown when she sneaks into a pre-wedding party and sees Austin Raised as an emotionless soldier, Belle works for the mysterious Madam and dreams of building a new life for herself and her sisters and is totally unprepared for Austin's physical and emotional effect on her and has to choose between him and her sisters.
Though not enhanced and despite Jayden's protests, Austin's assigned by Mitchell under DIRE's aegis to interrogate Belle. While she's reluctant to just give information to DIRE, Belle's willing to bargain with Austin for it. All bets are off when Belle finds out Austin lied to her and he really is a DIRE agent.
Rating: 4stars
Belle's mission to infiltrate the agency for takedown targeting Hope as the link is thrown when she sneaks into a pre-wedding party and sees Austin Raised as an emotionless soldier, Belle works for the mysterious Madam and dreams of building a new life for herself and her sisters and is totally unprepared for Austin's physical and emotional effect on her and has to choose between him and her sisters.
Though not enhanced and despite Jayden's protests, Austin's assigned by Mitchell under DIRE's aegis to interrogate Belle. While she's reluctant to just give information to DIRE, Belle's willing to bargain with Austin for it. All bets are off when Belle finds out Austin lied to her and he really is a DIRE agent.
Rating: 4stars
April 14, 2016
Loved it. Great adventure. The futuristic technology and time travel intrigue me. The author writes with such depth and richness to her stories.
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October 16, 2019Haven’t been able to load this book yet.
January 20, 2016
3.5 stars—
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 19, 2016
Special Agent: Austin Rose
Objective:
•Make the D.I.R.E. Agency
Credentials:
•None
Twelve years ago, Austin Rose silently stood by while his mother sent his brother away from home and their stepfather’s abuse. Now that he’s learned the truth behind his family’s lies, Austin is a changed man, determined to make things right with the D.I.R.E. super agent - and himself - by making the elite security agency.
A hit gone bad changed assassin, Belle Mason’s life forever. Assigned to San Diego for a D.I.R.E. agent’s wedding, she’s determined to bring down D.I.R.E. while its vulnerable, and give her sisters a new life. What she doesn’t count on is interference from the distracting, forbidden Austin Rose, or his knack for dispelling her lifelong truths.
When Austin’s chances of making the agency hinge on going undercover with Belle – literally – he’ll do whatever it takes to make the team.
But, when Belle decides to put her own life on the line, only one truth remains, and Austin won’t silently stand by…
••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--SPECIAL AGENT: AUSTIN is the latest novella in Joni Hahn’s adult, contemporary D.I.R.E. AGENCY paranormal/sci-fi, romantic suspense series focusing on the members of D.I.R.E. (Defense, Intelligence, and Reconnaissance Enforcement) Agency. D.I.R.E. is a private agency specializing in black ops, secret missions, rescue and recovery. This is wannabe agent Austin Rose, and trained assassin Belle Mason’s story.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Belle and Austin) the storyline focuses on Belle’s mission to infiltrate the D.I.R.E. agency and gather intel about the people within. Belle is an assassin, trained and ‘raised’ as a soldier-without feeling, without emotion, without a sense of family or love. Running into Austin Rose, the man who would destroy everything she thought she was, found our heroine on a mission of a different kind.
SPECIAL AGENT: AUSTIN focuses on one man’s need to reconnect with his family, but also on one woman’s need for find herself, and where she belongs. The $ex scenes are intimate without the over the top erotic text; the relationship between Austin and Belle is one of insta-love with a promise for the future.
This is my first D.I.R.E. Agency read, and I was completely unprepared for the amount of missing history and backstory that I needed for cohesion and understanding. Therefore, I recommend reading the series in order. I was lost as to the infinite details and background information that I found lacking for my total enjoyment of the novella. There are numerous time travel and sci-fi references, and paranormal and supernatural elements are a regular part of the series. The large ensemble cast of characters are all known to one another, and therefore, their interconnection and relationship was another unknown to this first time D.I.R.E. reader. I admit I should have researched the series prior to jumping head first into book 6.5-I am a big promoter of reading a series in order and, in this case, I didn’t follow my own advice.
Copy supplied by Netgalley.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 19, 2016
Special Agent: Austin Rose
Objective:
•Make the D.I.R.E. Agency
Credentials:
•None
Twelve years ago, Austin Rose silently stood by while his mother sent his brother away from home and their stepfather’s abuse. Now that he’s learned the truth behind his family’s lies, Austin is a changed man, determined to make things right with the D.I.R.E. super agent - and himself - by making the elite security agency.
A hit gone bad changed assassin, Belle Mason’s life forever. Assigned to San Diego for a D.I.R.E. agent’s wedding, she’s determined to bring down D.I.R.E. while its vulnerable, and give her sisters a new life. What she doesn’t count on is interference from the distracting, forbidden Austin Rose, or his knack for dispelling her lifelong truths.
When Austin’s chances of making the agency hinge on going undercover with Belle – literally – he’ll do whatever it takes to make the team.
But, when Belle decides to put her own life on the line, only one truth remains, and Austin won’t silently stand by…
••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--SPECIAL AGENT: AUSTIN is the latest novella in Joni Hahn’s adult, contemporary D.I.R.E. AGENCY paranormal/sci-fi, romantic suspense series focusing on the members of D.I.R.E. (Defense, Intelligence, and Reconnaissance Enforcement) Agency. D.I.R.E. is a private agency specializing in black ops, secret missions, rescue and recovery. This is wannabe agent Austin Rose, and trained assassin Belle Mason’s story.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Belle and Austin) the storyline focuses on Belle’s mission to infiltrate the D.I.R.E. agency and gather intel about the people within. Belle is an assassin, trained and ‘raised’ as a soldier-without feeling, without emotion, without a sense of family or love. Running into Austin Rose, the man who would destroy everything she thought she was, found our heroine on a mission of a different kind.
SPECIAL AGENT: AUSTIN focuses on one man’s need to reconnect with his family, but also on one woman’s need for find herself, and where she belongs. The $ex scenes are intimate without the over the top erotic text; the relationship between Austin and Belle is one of insta-love with a promise for the future.
This is my first D.I.R.E. Agency read, and I was completely unprepared for the amount of missing history and backstory that I needed for cohesion and understanding. Therefore, I recommend reading the series in order. I was lost as to the infinite details and background information that I found lacking for my total enjoyment of the novella. There are numerous time travel and sci-fi references, and paranormal and supernatural elements are a regular part of the series. The large ensemble cast of characters are all known to one another, and therefore, their interconnection and relationship was another unknown to this first time D.I.R.E. reader. I admit I should have researched the series prior to jumping head first into book 6.5-I am a big promoter of reading a series in order and, in this case, I didn’t follow my own advice.
Copy supplied by Netgalley.
April 2, 2016
When I read the last page, I was like, what?! It ends there? No! I have read all if the D.I.R.E. agent books and this was the one that took me the longest to read only because life kept getting in the way..lol. just like the rest of the books this story kept me on the edge if my seat and when allowed to keep the pages turning because I did not want to stop until I reached the last page. Even then I didn't want to belive the book was done!
Austin Rose is just like his brother and since his family history is pretty shirt and mostly lies he wanted to prove to his brother who he thought he lost, that he belongs with D.I.R.E. and at his brothers side. Belle has an agenda of her own and it did not include Austin Rose, not at lest until she had an encounter with him. I don't want to leave any spoilers but it is close to a typical D.I.R.E. agent ending. It amazes me how well Joni has been able to incorporate all of the twisted stories of the characters throughout the books like they are all just one big story. If you are reading these somewhere in the middle I think to catch the history you need to start at book one with Tristan. Love them all and can't wait to read Agent U7: Teague!
Austin Rose is just like his brother and since his family history is pretty shirt and mostly lies he wanted to prove to his brother who he thought he lost, that he belongs with D.I.R.E. and at his brothers side. Belle has an agenda of her own and it did not include Austin Rose, not at lest until she had an encounter with him. I don't want to leave any spoilers but it is close to a typical D.I.R.E. agent ending. It amazes me how well Joni has been able to incorporate all of the twisted stories of the characters throughout the books like they are all just one big story. If you are reading these somewhere in the middle I think to catch the history you need to start at book one with Tristan. Love them all and can't wait to read Agent U7: Teague!
March 4, 2016
"Mother Butler" as Tinkerbell "Belle" Mason, aka Monica Montgomery would say! This was a fast, fun novella that reintroduced Jayden's (my favorite redneck) little brother Austin. Austin want's to be a part of D.I.R.E and follow in big bro's footsteps but he lacks two major things...Training and experience!! Undeterred, he approaches Mitchell with his "I wanna be an agent spiel" and Mitchell makes him earn it. Of course Austin falls hopelessly in love with Belle in two days time and decides he can't live without her, thus when she plays martyr he must save her...yada, yada, yada. Belle is the assassin with the experience and feels it is she who has to save/protect him. And our old villan from the last story, Cyrus is still a threat and has an ally that we learn also has a vendetta against the D.I.R.E. Agency. What really peaks my interest in this novella is that Hahn has introduced us to several new characters. There is much ado about "The Madam", the serum and her sisters. I smell a new series coming (I hope! I hope! I hope!). Looking forward to the finale with Agent Keegan. Finally! A female D.I.R.E. agent!!!!!
January 7, 2016
Austin is determined to make things right by becoming a D.I.R.E. agent but his chances of making the agency hinge on going undercover with an assassin in this exciting paranormal romance.
A hit gone bad changed, Belle Mason’s life forever and she’s determined to give her sisters a new life by bringing down the D.I.R.E. Agency and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the explosive chemistry as Belle’s plan gets a bit sidetracked by the sexy agent to-be, Austin. These strong compelling characters have sparks flying along with spine tingling excitement and heart gripping emotional turmoil that keeps readers glued to the pages of this well written, fast paced and smooth flowing plot full of suspense, action, romance and intriguing events that draw the reader in and refuse to let go.
While I feel that Austin and Belle should have gotten a longer story because I like them so much, I have to say that they certainly got my adrenaline pumping as there was never a dull moment and I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this exhilarating world.
A hit gone bad changed, Belle Mason’s life forever and she’s determined to give her sisters a new life by bringing down the D.I.R.E. Agency and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the explosive chemistry as Belle’s plan gets a bit sidetracked by the sexy agent to-be, Austin. These strong compelling characters have sparks flying along with spine tingling excitement and heart gripping emotional turmoil that keeps readers glued to the pages of this well written, fast paced and smooth flowing plot full of suspense, action, romance and intriguing events that draw the reader in and refuse to let go.
While I feel that Austin and Belle should have gotten a longer story because I like them so much, I have to say that they certainly got my adrenaline pumping as there was never a dull moment and I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this exhilarating world.
January 17, 2016
Anyone call for an agent. I know I should have been. Where have I been that I didn’t hear about this series…In Special Agent:Austin Joni Hahn takes us on an action ride like no others. Austin Rose has some making up to do with his brother. Over a decade ago Austin stood by while his stepfather abused his brother and for his so called protection his mother sent him away. Now Austin has a chance to make amends but first he must join D.I.R.E. which doesn’t come easy with his brother not wanting him to join. But everything hinges on one undercover assignment…to finally get information on D.I.R.E. number one nemesis “Madam”. Austin will do whatever it takes to make the team and to save the women he comes to love Belle.
Special Agent: Austin was a great story with dazzling characters. Which kept me enthralled tell the end. Let me say that even though this is a novella before the finally book, I didn’t feel lost by reading this book first. But I will definitely read the other to catch up on this story line before the big finally Agent U7: Keegan due out later this year.
Special Agent: Austin was a great story with dazzling characters. Which kept me enthralled tell the end. Let me say that even though this is a novella before the finally book, I didn’t feel lost by reading this book first. But I will definitely read the other to catch up on this story line before the big finally Agent U7: Keegan due out later this year.
January 13, 2016
This book really doesn't stand on its own and I was a little lost about the larger story line. But, it did achieve gaining my interest in reading more of the series. Austin is also a very likable character. However, Belle/Monica as a character is a little inconsistent; she's supposed to be a deadly assassin, yet she largely appears to lack the skills. What skills she does poses she doesn't appear to always use them. I understand she has stopped taking a special serum that magnifies her skills, but that shouldn't change what she does know how/what to do. It should only affect how she employs those skills.
January 9, 2019
Austin feels he let his brother down years ago. He didn't support him when they found out his parentage and now he is determined to support him by becoming a D.I.R.E. agent and having his six. But unlike the other agents he doesn't have combat experience.
Belle Mason is an assassin and badass but when her last mission goes pear-shaped she finds herself wondering if all the information she has been fed by her Madame is a lie. Can she rescue her sisters from the Madame's clutches or are they too far gone down her brainwashed path?
Plenty of adrenaline fuelled action and passion in this little nugget!
Belle Mason is an assassin and badass but when her last mission goes pear-shaped she finds herself wondering if all the information she has been fed by her Madame is a lie. Can she rescue her sisters from the Madame's clutches or are they too far gone down her brainwashed path?
Plenty of adrenaline fuelled action and passion in this little nugget!
January 31, 2016
This is the first of the D.I.R.E series I have read, and what a fun introduction it was. Although it ties into the other books, I didn't feel, given the length of this story and the appropriate back references and explanations, that missed anything by not having read the previous stories first.
Some of the build up and detail I would have hoped for from a relationship of the intensity of Austin and Belle has been omitted or truncated, due to the length of the story. That said, it was an enjoyable, diverting and fun read.
I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Some of the build up and detail I would have hoped for from a relationship of the intensity of Austin and Belle has been omitted or truncated, due to the length of the story. That said, it was an enjoyable, diverting and fun read.
I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
July 16, 2020DNF july 2020
I was enjoying this but then things started to get a little confusing. I was informed that this could be read as a standalone, but I don't think it can. You really need to at least read the first book in the series to get an understanding of the world that the author has created.
I will return to this after reading the rest of the series.
I was enjoying this but then things started to get a little confusing. I was informed that this could be read as a standalone, but I don't think it can. You really need to at least read the first book in the series to get an understanding of the world that the author has created.
I will return to this after reading the rest of the series.
January 28, 2016
Austin's Belle
Great story, full of action, danger and D.I.R.E. hotties. Belle, aka Monica is a great character. Austin, hunky cowboy wanting a chance to be a D.I.R.E. agent will do whatever it takes to succeed, he also will do anything to save Belle. Excellent series, excellent characters. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Great story, full of action, danger and D.I.R.E. hotties. Belle, aka Monica is a great character. Austin, hunky cowboy wanting a chance to be a D.I.R.E. agent will do whatever it takes to succeed, he also will do anything to save Belle. Excellent series, excellent characters. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
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January 4, 2016Absolutely freaking amazing I loved this book I think it was my favorite et I love this series loved it
January 8, 2016
Great story with brilliant characters. Kept me completely enthralled from start to finish, highly recommend!!
February 9, 2018
Austin has to be one of my favorite agents. I love this series.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews