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Griffin Force #1
The Captive
Former Navy SEAL Jake Williams is the newly appointed head of a task force assigned to rescue a kidnapped American diplomat. Their only hope is Mya Amari, the daughter of a notorious Algerian hostage negotiator, but she is full of secrets and complications–something Jake takes as a personal challenge. As they grow closer, the threat to the mission escalates and time runs out for the hostages. Can Jake unravel the web of deception to save them all without getting caught in the crossfire?
Mya Amari has been in hiding nearly her entire life to escape her father’s enemies. But when her sister is kidnapped along with an American diplomat, she’ll do anything to bring her home–including walking into the enemy’s lair. She doesn’t trust anyone, especially the too-handsome-for-his-own-good Commander Williams, but when all her careful plans explode out of control, he’s the only one she can turn to with the truth about her family. Is it too little, too late?
Mya Amari has been in hiding nearly her entire life to escape her father’s enemies. But when her sister is kidnapped along with an American diplomat, she’ll do anything to bring her home–including walking into the enemy’s lair. She doesn’t trust anyone, especially the too-handsome-for-his-own-good Commander Williams, but when all her careful plans explode out of control, he’s the only one she can turn to with the truth about her family. Is it too little, too late?
260 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2015
409 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Julie Coulter Bellon
47 books590 followersAfter reading every Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, and Hardy Boys book her elementary school library had, Julie Coulter Bellon knew from a young age she wanted to write books and be a published author someday. That dream came true and she is now the author of thirty romantic suspense novels and two children's books. One nightmare that also came true was that she once tripped up the stairs going on stage to accept a book award and she thinks about that moment more often than she should.
Julie loves to travel and her favorite cities she's visited so far are probably Athens, Paris, Ottawa, and London. She is a former journalist and podcast host of Authors Off the Page. She loves to read, write, teach, watch Hawaii Five-O reruns, and eat Canadian chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.
If you'd like to be the first to hear about Julie's new projects and receive a free book, you can sign up to be part of her VIP Readers Group at juliebellon DOT com
Julie loves to travel and her favorite cities she's visited so far are probably Athens, Paris, Ottawa, and London. She is a former journalist and podcast host of Authors Off the Page. She loves to read, write, teach, watch Hawaii Five-O reruns, and eat Canadian chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.
If you'd like to be the first to hear about Julie's new projects and receive a free book, you can sign up to be part of her VIP Readers Group at juliebellon DOT com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
February 16, 2016
I came away from this book feeling almost emotional battered. I got so caught up in the story, I felt like I was trying to negotiate for some hostages, right along with this team. I enjoyed every minute of it and I'm sooo grateful that I don't have to really live a life like this.
Jake is a Navy SEAL and is very dedicated to his job and in doing it well. In fact, he's so brusque that he has to take a few lessons on compassion and gentleness from his foster sister, Chivonn. His mission is to offer protection to Mya, while also rescuing an American diplomat. Mya's father has a hand in dangerous business and no one is sure who to trust, who will betray, and what is truth. I couldn't help but to like Jake right off the bat, in spite of his abrupt and gruff manner. He's someone I would definitely want to watch my back and have on my side. Mya is kind of prickly, but once those thorns are removed, a surprising woman is uncovered.
Within these pages, I found a ton of adventure, many moments of suspense, some sweet romance, and a bit of mystery. I loved the quick pacing and the way things unfolded in twists and turns. I hope more in this series will be written!
Content: moments of peril, kidnapping, mild violence; mild romance (kissing); Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Jake is a Navy SEAL and is very dedicated to his job and in doing it well. In fact, he's so brusque that he has to take a few lessons on compassion and gentleness from his foster sister, Chivonn. His mission is to offer protection to Mya, while also rescuing an American diplomat. Mya's father has a hand in dangerous business and no one is sure who to trust, who will betray, and what is truth. I couldn't help but to like Jake right off the bat, in spite of his abrupt and gruff manner. He's someone I would definitely want to watch my back and have on my side. Mya is kind of prickly, but once those thorns are removed, a surprising woman is uncovered.
Within these pages, I found a ton of adventure, many moments of suspense, some sweet romance, and a bit of mystery. I loved the quick pacing and the way things unfolded in twists and turns. I hope more in this series will be written!
Content: moments of peril, kidnapping, mild violence; mild romance (kissing); Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
April 29, 2016
This is the first book I've read by this author so I didn't quite know what to expect beyond some good reviews I had read. I enjoyed the main characters Jake and Mya, but felt like I only got to see the surface of their personalities and sensed there are more layers there. Since this is the first book in the Griffin Force series I hope their characters are delved into more deeply in future books, as well as other members of the task force. There are some scenes with action, but they are spaced widely with scenes of transportation and descriptions of the safehouse and the mission, which seemed vague. The technical precision I'm used to in the writings of other suspense authors was missing, but it also allowed the plot to not get hung up on details. An element of quick romance was present, based on mutual physical attraction. It will be interesting to see how the long term relationship plays out throughout the series.
(Thank you to Ebooks for Review for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Ebooks for Review for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
April 20, 2019
I loved this one. But I might be a little biased since I wrote it. :)
February 2, 2016
Julie Coulter Bellon is one of my favorite authors so I was excited to learn she was writing a new series! I love her books because I know there will be action, suspense, drama, romance, fantastic dialogue, and it will be clean! This book delivered in all those areas.
Jake is a former Navy SEAL heading a group charged with the task of rescuing an American diplomat who was kidnapped. Mya is the daughter of a hostage negotiator who they're hoping will help them. Mya is a bit upset at first that she's kept out of the loop and she's a bit hostile towards Jake. She's also keeping a huge secret that would make a difference in how Jake handled this assignment.
Jake was easy to like right away. He's handsome, smart and capable. He had personal issues with another member of his team that he needed to sort through. He came off a little brusque towards Mya, though, so he had to channel more of his kind sister, Chivonn, to get Mya to open up to him. I wasn't a huge fan of Mya's at first. She was uptight and upset that she wasn't included in the briefings so she was cold towards Jake. She did grow on me as she warmed up to the team and I learned more about her life and family relationships.
This book felt like a scenario that could truly happen in real life. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough or put it down until I knew how it ended. I enjoyed getting to know the members of the team and was excited to learn that her next book will involve one of them!
I received a copy of this book from the author to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
Jake is a former Navy SEAL heading a group charged with the task of rescuing an American diplomat who was kidnapped. Mya is the daughter of a hostage negotiator who they're hoping will help them. Mya is a bit upset at first that she's kept out of the loop and she's a bit hostile towards Jake. She's also keeping a huge secret that would make a difference in how Jake handled this assignment.
Jake was easy to like right away. He's handsome, smart and capable. He had personal issues with another member of his team that he needed to sort through. He came off a little brusque towards Mya, though, so he had to channel more of his kind sister, Chivonn, to get Mya to open up to him. I wasn't a huge fan of Mya's at first. She was uptight and upset that she wasn't included in the briefings so she was cold towards Jake. She did grow on me as she warmed up to the team and I learned more about her life and family relationships.
This book felt like a scenario that could truly happen in real life. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough or put it down until I knew how it ended. I enjoyed getting to know the members of the team and was excited to learn that her next book will involve one of them!
I received a copy of this book from the author to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
April 24, 2016
I feel like I just got off the longest rollercoaster ever! There were so many turns and twists and my stomach rolled a few times. It was exhilarating! I want to go on it again! I’m glad this is a start to a series!
I’m not one to pick up a book with some politics or terrorists in them and I was taken aback by how much I enjoyed it. I can’t seem to figure out how to tell you about it and give it the justice it deserves.
The writing is amazing. The characters believable. The rifts between Jake and Ryan made me uneasy and I was surprised how that turned out! I love that the author added a man who stutters as one of the heroes! I enjoyed the romance building and the jealousy added in there was an awesome idea! I liked the team building idea with several different agencies and countries involved. I really liked where they took Jake and Mya in the mountains. It was if I could see it too! But the suspense really was, in my mind anyway, going to kill me if I didn’t hurry and find out how it would end and would anyone die!
If you want a book with suspense, a little budding romance in a serious situation, safe houses, team building, some violence, foreign foods, terrorist plots, traveling to foreign countries and hostile areas,hostage negotiations, father and daughter reunions in dangerous situations, than this might be for you.
I can’t wait for the next book!!
I’m not one to pick up a book with some politics or terrorists in them and I was taken aback by how much I enjoyed it. I can’t seem to figure out how to tell you about it and give it the justice it deserves.
The writing is amazing. The characters believable. The rifts between Jake and Ryan made me uneasy and I was surprised how that turned out! I love that the author added a man who stutters as one of the heroes! I enjoyed the romance building and the jealousy added in there was an awesome idea! I liked the team building idea with several different agencies and countries involved. I really liked where they took Jake and Mya in the mountains. It was if I could see it too! But the suspense really was, in my mind anyway, going to kill me if I didn’t hurry and find out how it would end and would anyone die!
If you want a book with suspense, a little budding romance in a serious situation, safe houses, team building, some violence, foreign foods, terrorist plots, traveling to foreign countries and hostile areas,hostage negotiations, father and daughter reunions in dangerous situations, than this might be for you.
I can’t wait for the next book!!
December 18, 2015
This book reads like front-page news! Bellon’s knowledge of current events and her ability to write them into an exciting, credible story is first rate.
We meet Jake Williams again (introduced in Ring Around the Rosie) and his task force of one American, two Canadians, and an Algerian woman, Mya who is the key to their whole mission. Mya’s father is one of the best known negotiators in Africa and Jake’s task force relies on her to talk her father into brokering the safe release of an American statesman.
But everyone on his team is not who they seem, and Mya also has a secret objective of her own. Once started the action never stops.
The plot is Bellon’s special forte and her writing is excellent. The characters are multi-dimensional, the setting so real you can smell it, and the story full of surprises. I enjoyed the book very much and can’t wait for Griffin Force #2.
We meet Jake Williams again (introduced in Ring Around the Rosie) and his task force of one American, two Canadians, and an Algerian woman, Mya who is the key to their whole mission. Mya’s father is one of the best known negotiators in Africa and Jake’s task force relies on her to talk her father into brokering the safe release of an American statesman.
But everyone on his team is not who they seem, and Mya also has a secret objective of her own. Once started the action never stops.
The plot is Bellon’s special forte and her writing is excellent. The characters are multi-dimensional, the setting so real you can smell it, and the story full of surprises. I enjoyed the book very much and can’t wait for Griffin Force #2.
January 12, 2024
This is a clean military suspense romance.
I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next books.
It was an easy read and fascinating to see how the cells actually work. I love all the team members and I'm looking forward to reading their books.
It did have some typos and that's why I didn't give it a 5 star rating.
I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next books.
It was an easy read and fascinating to see how the cells actually work. I love all the team members and I'm looking forward to reading their books.
It did have some typos and that's why I didn't give it a 5 star rating.
May 1, 2016
THE CAPTIVE was a read with some action and suspense, but mostly about two individuals with a lot to lose and are trying to do the right thing. While I didn't love the book, there was a lot of potential and potential for the ensuing series. The romance built as the two main characters experience some tough things together, which always creates a bond, and then learn to trust each other when they really don't trust anyone.
My biggest issues with the story was the probability of what happened and the way things just didn't work for me realistically. I've read quite a few military-based romantic suspense and always love how strong the characters are and have to be for what they do. Jake definitely fits that persona. Just the interactions and the lack of communication from higher up and then how things come about in the end... It was all to convoluted to me. I mean what Navy trained SEAL would try to stop someone who is a big honcho in his own right when they're under attack to question him and talk when they're supposed to be running to safety. They're trained to be quiet and methodical under pressure. Then there were other things that just didn't fit along with who these characters were supposed to be. Without these issues, it was still an interesting read and I liked the characters overall. It just didn't quite give the the consistency and depth I would have liked in this type of story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This one gets a 3, which means it was just okay, I could take it or leave it.
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: Received a complimentary copy through ebooksforreview.com, which did not affect my review in any way.
My biggest issues with the story was the probability of what happened and the way things just didn't work for me realistically. I've read quite a few military-based romantic suspense and always love how strong the characters are and have to be for what they do. Jake definitely fits that persona. Just the interactions and the lack of communication from higher up and then how things come about in the end... It was all to convoluted to me. I mean what Navy trained SEAL would try to stop someone who is a big honcho in his own right when they're under attack to question him and talk when they're supposed to be running to safety. They're trained to be quiet and methodical under pressure. Then there were other things that just didn't fit along with who these characters were supposed to be. Without these issues, it was still an interesting read and I liked the characters overall. It just didn't quite give the the consistency and depth I would have liked in this type of story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This one gets a 3, which means it was just okay, I could take it or leave it.
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: Received a complimentary copy through ebooksforreview.com, which did not affect my review in any way.
December 31, 2015
It is always a happy day when I get to sit down and read one of Julie Bellon's books. New releases from her are like Christmas for me. Lucky me, I got to read this book over the Christmas holiday so it was like Christmas and Christmas for me! :)
This book is the beginning of a new series but still brings the same elements that I've come to know and expect from Julie Bellon. There is always action and mild suspense along with the romance in her books and this book was no different.
Jake is all things a male lead should be. Strong, brave, smart, handsome and determined to keep people safe. He is a take charge kind of guy but he is also kind. Especially to Mya when she doesn't really look to deserve it. I really loved Jake consistently in all situations.
Mya was a bit more prickly but it's her moments of weakness that helped me connect with her. That and her love for her family.
I read through this book quickly and was a bit sad to see it come to an end. It's so easy to get wrapped up in books by Julie Bellon. She is one of my favorites!
This book is the beginning of a new series but still brings the same elements that I've come to know and expect from Julie Bellon. There is always action and mild suspense along with the romance in her books and this book was no different.
Jake is all things a male lead should be. Strong, brave, smart, handsome and determined to keep people safe. He is a take charge kind of guy but he is also kind. Especially to Mya when she doesn't really look to deserve it. I really loved Jake consistently in all situations.
Mya was a bit more prickly but it's her moments of weakness that helped me connect with her. That and her love for her family.
I read through this book quickly and was a bit sad to see it come to an end. It's so easy to get wrapped up in books by Julie Bellon. She is one of my favorites!
April 4, 2016
I'm such a huge Julie Bellon fan and this book is up there with my favorites. I loved the blend of danger, action, internal character drama, and romance. I cannot wait for the second book. This series is definitely a must-read for me.
January 30, 2022
The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon is the first book in her Griffin Force series. It is the first book I have read by Ms. Bellon, but it won’t be the last. The Captive is the story of a hostage situation – the hostages are an American diplomat and the daughter of a notorious Algerian hostage negotiator. Former Navy SEAL Jake Williams heads a task force to rescue the hostages. Joining the task force is another daughter of the Algerian hostage negotiator, Mya Amari, who will do anything to bring her sister home.
Amid rescue plans that don’t go as planned and flying bullets, romance starts to bloom between Jake and Mya, but they must focus on the mission.
Julie Coulter Bellon is knowledgeable of military missions, top government agencies, and hostage negotiations. She is talented in creating characters her readers will care about and want to walk through the dangers with them to see if they’ll come out safely. Ms. Bellon has crafted a well-told story filled with tension and suspense and has woven a blossoming romance in the midst of a crisis.
This story does contain some violence but it is minimal and is not graphic. The romance is clean and also minimal, and there is no profane language.
As a reader who enjoys a tense suspense novel from time to time, I must say I turned the last page of The Captive, wanting to immediately pick up the next book in the Griffin Force series to keep reading.
I highly recommend The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon to anyone who enjoys a story based on a situation that could happen in today’s world and is filled with tension, suspense, danger, and excitement, with a bit of romance.
I give The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon 5 stars.
Amid rescue plans that don’t go as planned and flying bullets, romance starts to bloom between Jake and Mya, but they must focus on the mission.
Julie Coulter Bellon is knowledgeable of military missions, top government agencies, and hostage negotiations. She is talented in creating characters her readers will care about and want to walk through the dangers with them to see if they’ll come out safely. Ms. Bellon has crafted a well-told story filled with tension and suspense and has woven a blossoming romance in the midst of a crisis.
This story does contain some violence but it is minimal and is not graphic. The romance is clean and also minimal, and there is no profane language.
As a reader who enjoys a tense suspense novel from time to time, I must say I turned the last page of The Captive, wanting to immediately pick up the next book in the Griffin Force series to keep reading.
I highly recommend The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon to anyone who enjoys a story based on a situation that could happen in today’s world and is filled with tension, suspense, danger, and excitement, with a bit of romance.
I give The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon 5 stars.
May 3, 2016
The Captive by Julie Coulter Bellon (Griffin Force #1)
4 STARS
First book in a new series that I want to read the next book. This is full of drama, action, mystery and romance suspense. It is a clean read but does have some violence.
A US diplomat and his translator has been kidnapped. Terrorists want money and prisoners to trade for him.
Mya Amari is a lawyer in Canada. She has been asked to help to get her father involved to help mediate with the terrorists. She has not seen her father since she left Algeria.
Jake Williams is a former US Navy Seal. He has been called in and asked to lead a team to get the diplomat home. He has also been asked to keep Mya safe.
The danger happens before they even get on the plane. You are not sure who to trust. Jake and Mya to not get along off the bat. I love watching this story unfold. It keeps you wanting to find out what will happen next.
I was given this ebook to read for free in exchange of a honest review.
4 STARS
First book in a new series that I want to read the next book. This is full of drama, action, mystery and romance suspense. It is a clean read but does have some violence.
A US diplomat and his translator has been kidnapped. Terrorists want money and prisoners to trade for him.
Mya Amari is a lawyer in Canada. She has been asked to help to get her father involved to help mediate with the terrorists. She has not seen her father since she left Algeria.
Jake Williams is a former US Navy Seal. He has been called in and asked to lead a team to get the diplomat home. He has also been asked to keep Mya safe.
The danger happens before they even get on the plane. You are not sure who to trust. Jake and Mya to not get along off the bat. I love watching this story unfold. It keeps you wanting to find out what will happen next.
I was given this ebook to read for free in exchange of a honest review.
December 31, 2022
This one's been in my TBR for quite awhile and I decided to listen to the audiobook while doing things around the house. I think this was a great kickoff to the Griffin Force series. There was a lot of action, some suspense and the beginning of a romance between the lead characters who gave off a strong dislike to lovers vibe at least at the beginning of the story.
I liked Jake right away but wasn't sure about Mya at first. She was kind of aloof and tried to get around some of the protocols that were in place to keep everyone safe and that's never a good thing. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I liked the narrator and thought he did a good job with the many male voices that were in the story. I've looked at the next book in the series and he also narrates that one which I think is a good thing.
I liked Jake right away but wasn't sure about Mya at first. She was kind of aloof and tried to get around some of the protocols that were in place to keep everyone safe and that's never a good thing. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I liked the narrator and thought he did a good job with the many male voices that were in the story. I've looked at the next book in the series and he also narrates that one which I think is a good thing.
March 11, 2016
This book is the perfect blend of high-stakes adventure, suspense, and romance.
Even though there's an attraction, Mya and Jake meet under stressful circumstances and are hesitant to trust each other. As the story develops and they get to know each other better, they learn to place their trust and share their vulnerabilities. I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed and how they helped the other through their difficulties.
I also liked how the we got to see the special force team get formed. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series and the stories of the other guys.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Even though there's an attraction, Mya and Jake meet under stressful circumstances and are hesitant to trust each other. As the story develops and they get to know each other better, they learn to place their trust and share their vulnerabilities. I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed and how they helped the other through their difficulties.
I also liked how the we got to see the special force team get formed. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series and the stories of the other guys.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2016
This story opens with a suspenseful, captivating edge that lasts throughout the whole book, leaving the reader eagerly turning page after page.
Read full review in the 2016 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 13, 2019
The Captive is a fast-paced action adventure story that takes us from the US to Algiers as a team is put together to rescue two hostages. It felt like something that could be taken straight from today's news headlines, except we get to see all the unexpected hiccups that lead to the happy ending.
I enjoyed watching the team interaction and watching how they bonded and worked together.... well, mostly (again, ...hiccups). I simply adored Jake -- the way he led his men (and woman), his bond with his sister, his honor and respect for others, his strength and determination to fulfill his mission (whether personal or professional).
Mya was a hard one for me. First impressions of her weren't great, even as much as I tried to empathize and remember where exactly she was coming from and what her head space was like at that moment. All through the book I'd alternate between being drawn to her and admiring her tenacity..... to just not quite understanding her actions and wanting to shake some patience and sense into her.
Despite my struggle with Mya at times, I still felt the attraction and connection between her and Jake and enjoyed how things played out for them.
And just sayin', Colt sure captured my attention as well!
Overall, this made for a great modern day romantic suspense story full of intrigue and excitement, but wasn't overly heavy.
I listened to this via audible (audio book) and the narrator did an excellent job bringing the story to life. Great voice, great acting (I could recognize which character was talking and who's point of view we were in just by the voice inflections) - I'd enjoy hearing more stories from him.
I enjoyed watching the team interaction and watching how they bonded and worked together.... well, mostly (again, ...hiccups). I simply adored Jake -- the way he led his men (and woman), his bond with his sister, his honor and respect for others, his strength and determination to fulfill his mission (whether personal or professional).
Mya was a hard one for me. First impressions of her weren't great, even as much as I tried to empathize and remember where exactly she was coming from and what her head space was like at that moment. All through the book I'd alternate between being drawn to her and admiring her tenacity..... to just not quite understanding her actions and wanting to shake some patience and sense into her.
Despite my struggle with Mya at times, I still felt the attraction and connection between her and Jake and enjoyed how things played out for them.
And just sayin', Colt sure captured my attention as well!
Overall, this made for a great modern day romantic suspense story full of intrigue and excitement, but wasn't overly heavy.
I listened to this via audible (audio book) and the narrator did an excellent job bringing the story to life. Great voice, great acting (I could recognize which character was talking and who's point of view we were in just by the voice inflections) - I'd enjoy hearing more stories from him.
March 20, 2016
When I read a Romantic Suspense, I expect to be pulled into the story line at a fast pace and within the first chapter or two. This book just did not do that to me. I never felt that need to keep reading to find out what happens next. I never felt like I needed to stay up all night to finish the book so I could figure everything out. It took me until I was halfway through the book to feel like I was mildly interested in the book. I really struggled falling in love with this story. The story line is just okay. The characters are just okay. The book is just okay. I can tell the author put a lot of time and effort into the book. It is clean and there were not any major grammatical errors. It just did not pull me in like most romantic suspense books do. I don’t know that I would recommend it to someone else. It just did not live up to my expectations of a romantic suspense.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2016
This is a fast paced military adventure book with some romance. Mya has lived in Canada with her mother since she was 12. Her father sent them away because his job was too dangerous and he wanted to protect his family against it. Mya lost her mother to cancer 6 months before the story starts and is feeling all alone. She finds out her half sister has been kidnapped and she is determined to do whatever she needs to do to save her.
Jake has left the Navy SEALS to a safer job of homeland security so he can be there for his foster sister through a difficult time. When he is called to head a special mission for the UN, he is pulled back into the world of secret missions and dangerous situations.
Jake and Mya clash at first. The more time they spend together the more the attraction between them builds and the walls around their hearts comes down.
This was an exciting read and I have already preordered the next book.
Jake has left the Navy SEALS to a safer job of homeland security so he can be there for his foster sister through a difficult time. When he is called to head a special mission for the UN, he is pulled back into the world of secret missions and dangerous situations.
Jake and Mya clash at first. The more time they spend together the more the attraction between them builds and the walls around their hearts comes down.
This was an exciting read and I have already preordered the next book.
February 27, 2016
This was a great book! I don't usually read modern thrillers about terrorists and Navy SEALs, but I make an exception for Julie Coulter Bellon's writing, because I know from experience, that it is fantastic! Jake is a great three dimensional character, completely believable, and I really like him. I'm also embarrassed to admit that I am jealous of Mya. But golly, I am. Jake is a great guy, brave, ethical, and really, really good looking. Mya is also a character I admire a lot. She's courageous, and willing to do what she needs to do, to do what's right. They are a great match. The tension in the story was exciting, and nail biting, especially toward the end. Ms. Bellon sure knows how to get readers to keep turning pages! I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2016
Commander Jake Williams gets assigned to a special team along with a woman named Mya, to rescue an American diplomat who has been taken hostage.
This is the first book in the Griffin Force series, and I hope there will be several more!
This story has a fast pace plot, great drama, suspense and clean romance. I couldn't tell who was working together as a team and who was the enemy some of the time. Nothing was predictable or boring.
My 14 year old really enjoyed it as well! We both finished the book in a short time because we were so enthralled with the characters and story line.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on my blog and social media-all opinions are my own.
This is the first book in the Griffin Force series, and I hope there will be several more!
This story has a fast pace plot, great drama, suspense and clean romance. I couldn't tell who was working together as a team and who was the enemy some of the time. Nothing was predictable or boring.
My 14 year old really enjoyed it as well! We both finished the book in a short time because we were so enthralled with the characters and story line.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on my blog and social media-all opinions are my own.
June 14, 2016
I received this ebook through ebooksforreview in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I was a little deceived by the book, because it wasn’t quite what I thought it would be. I thought I would be reading an action-packed book, but instead for more than half of the book, it exclusively romance. I still give the book 4 stars, because the book wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t what I thought it would be.
As for the book it itself, it was a pretty good story, but a little too slow-paced for me at times. I would recommend to read this series in order as this book introduces the Griffin Force.
First of all, I was a little deceived by the book, because it wasn’t quite what I thought it would be. I thought I would be reading an action-packed book, but instead for more than half of the book, it exclusively romance. I still give the book 4 stars, because the book wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t what I thought it would be.
As for the book it itself, it was a pretty good story, but a little too slow-paced for me at times. I would recommend to read this series in order as this book introduces the Griffin Force.
January 30, 2016
The suspense part of this was good. The romance part just wasn't for me. Don't ask me to explain because I can't. But if you've liked Julie Coulter Bellon's other books, you'll love this one. :)
September 1, 2016
Give me a good suspense story and I am one happy girl-
Julie is one of my go-to authors for the BEST SUSPENSE!
A great read for this weekend :)
Julie is one of my go-to authors for the BEST SUSPENSE!
A great read for this weekend :)
November 23, 2020
I listened to the audio version of this book and it was fantastic!
February 22, 2024
I'm writing this review after listening to all of the audiobooks of the published books in this series and wowsers! I was completely hooked. I would finish one audiobook and quickly download the next one to devour. I loved how the main characters from each Griffin Force book kept having appearances throughout the books. I love when we as readers become invested in these characters and then the author gives us more into what they are doing after their initial book ends. It's one of my favorite parts about book series. It usually has me liking each subsequent book a little more than the first because we get to see more and more.
Tristan Wright is the narrator and I've really enjoyed previous audiobooks that he's narrated so I was excited that he was the narrator for this series! He did great with all of the voices and pulled me right into the story!
This first book focuses on Mya and Jake's story. They meet when a task force is being put together for a rescue mission. Jake is a former Navy Seal and Mya is the daughter of a notorious Algerian hostage negotiator.
Mya has a pretty big secret that could compromise her and the mission. But this secret is so big that she will risk everything for it. And we all know that withholding secrets is dangerous and can also cause people to be hesitant and closed off. Which is exactly happens here. Despite that part of her personality, I liked Mya. I felt her worries and concerns as the book progressed.
And Jake seems a little gruff and tuff (I know it's not spelled that way, just go with me on it) around the edges but inside he's really a softy! He might need a little help from his foster sister, Chivonn, but once he takes her advice, the softer side comes out a lot more.
The dynamics and chemistry between these two was well written. I loved the angst and tension between them. I loved watching them work towards trusting each other. When that trust was fully in place, they were safer and able to accomplish more together.
There were some moments that I wasn't quite sure how they'd get out of the predicament they were in but I kept making guesses at what would happen and listening as fast as I could!
Content: Clean. This book does deal with hostages and terrorists, moments of peril and guns and attacks. The author did a great job writing it without overly graphic descriptions but if those are triggers for you I wanted you to be aware. There are some kisses but nothing further.
I listened through audible. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading/Listening!!!
Tristan Wright is the narrator and I've really enjoyed previous audiobooks that he's narrated so I was excited that he was the narrator for this series! He did great with all of the voices and pulled me right into the story!
This first book focuses on Mya and Jake's story. They meet when a task force is being put together for a rescue mission. Jake is a former Navy Seal and Mya is the daughter of a notorious Algerian hostage negotiator.
Mya has a pretty big secret that could compromise her and the mission. But this secret is so big that she will risk everything for it. And we all know that withholding secrets is dangerous and can also cause people to be hesitant and closed off. Which is exactly happens here. Despite that part of her personality, I liked Mya. I felt her worries and concerns as the book progressed.
And Jake seems a little gruff and tuff (I know it's not spelled that way, just go with me on it) around the edges but inside he's really a softy! He might need a little help from his foster sister, Chivonn, but once he takes her advice, the softer side comes out a lot more.
The dynamics and chemistry between these two was well written. I loved the angst and tension between them. I loved watching them work towards trusting each other. When that trust was fully in place, they were safer and able to accomplish more together.
There were some moments that I wasn't quite sure how they'd get out of the predicament they were in but I kept making guesses at what would happen and listening as fast as I could!
Content: Clean. This book does deal with hostages and terrorists, moments of peril and guns and attacks. The author did a great job writing it without overly graphic descriptions but if those are triggers for you I wanted you to be aware. There are some kisses but nothing further.
I listened through audible. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading/Listening!!!
June 1, 2021
Wow! This one really ended with a bang😉It took me a little while to get into it, but I’m so glad I stuck with it! So much action and unexpected twists! I can’t wait to read the next one in the series!
*Bonus points for it being a clean read!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but the review is 100% honest and all mine😊
*Bonus points for it being a clean read!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but the review is 100% honest and all mine😊
Want to read
March 7, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (3/7/2018)!💝
May 14, 2019
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. My husband and I listened to this book, we both enjoyed it. Julie kept us guessing what would happen next in this suspenseful book. The romance part of this book was definitely second to the suspense. We thought the book was well written with good detail.
March 7, 2016
Once again, Julie Coulter Bellon has written a captivating, heart pounding, page turning novel, that could very easily have been ripped from today's newspaper headlines. I was literally drawn in from the very first paragraph, where I found myself thinking, "hey, what's going on here, and what's going to happen next?"
The book begins with former Navy Seal, now Special Agent, Jake Williams being pulled of an airplane and taken to the U.N. for an unexpected meeting with an Admiral. Jake learns he will be the head of a special task force pulled together to rescue an American diplomat who has been kidnapped overseas. The plot thickens when a woman, who is the daughter of a well known hostage negotiator, is also brought into the team. But this woman has dangerous secrets of her own-like the fact that she had learned three days earlier that her half-sister, who she has not seen in years, had also been kidnapped. She keeps this crucial information to herself, and agrees to go along with the team in an effort to contact her Father, who she also has not had contact with for years. All the while, she is wondering if her Father will even see her or not, and plotting how to get him involved in successfully rescuing her half-sister. This secret puts everyone in jeopardy and grave danger, even before they leave the U.S. The danger continues and increases when the travel overseas to begin their joint mission begins.
This is the second book by this author that I have read and reviewed, and once again, it left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning pages, and staying up late to finish it!
There are many things I love about Julie Coulter Bellon's novels. The depth of character, the personalities, and traits that she gives to the people in her books, truly bring them to life. You feel like you know them, and almost instantly you are sympathetic to some, and and wary of others. The characters in this volume clearly show their guts, fortitude, and dogged determination to successfully complete this challenging and dangerous mission.
The author skillfully weaves the many twists and turns and intriguing plots into the drama, that leaves you only trying to guess what might happen next. And, I was never right with my guesses while reading The Captive.
The plot of the book makes you realize that both her knowledge and research of the figures, groups, situations, and places are second to none.
Julie Coulter Bellon has masterfully woven a high drama suspenseful and intriguing story line with a light romantic touch that readers will find captivating and exciting at the same time. She skillfully leaves the door open at the end of this book for another volume to follow- hopefully soon!
Her books could easily be made into Hollywood movies or a television mini series, and I wish they would be-I believe they would be very popular.
The book begins with former Navy Seal, now Special Agent, Jake Williams being pulled of an airplane and taken to the U.N. for an unexpected meeting with an Admiral. Jake learns he will be the head of a special task force pulled together to rescue an American diplomat who has been kidnapped overseas. The plot thickens when a woman, who is the daughter of a well known hostage negotiator, is also brought into the team. But this woman has dangerous secrets of her own-like the fact that she had learned three days earlier that her half-sister, who she has not seen in years, had also been kidnapped. She keeps this crucial information to herself, and agrees to go along with the team in an effort to contact her Father, who she also has not had contact with for years. All the while, she is wondering if her Father will even see her or not, and plotting how to get him involved in successfully rescuing her half-sister. This secret puts everyone in jeopardy and grave danger, even before they leave the U.S. The danger continues and increases when the travel overseas to begin their joint mission begins.
This is the second book by this author that I have read and reviewed, and once again, it left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning pages, and staying up late to finish it!
There are many things I love about Julie Coulter Bellon's novels. The depth of character, the personalities, and traits that she gives to the people in her books, truly bring them to life. You feel like you know them, and almost instantly you are sympathetic to some, and and wary of others. The characters in this volume clearly show their guts, fortitude, and dogged determination to successfully complete this challenging and dangerous mission.
The author skillfully weaves the many twists and turns and intriguing plots into the drama, that leaves you only trying to guess what might happen next. And, I was never right with my guesses while reading The Captive.
The plot of the book makes you realize that both her knowledge and research of the figures, groups, situations, and places are second to none.
Julie Coulter Bellon has masterfully woven a high drama suspenseful and intriguing story line with a light romantic touch that readers will find captivating and exciting at the same time. She skillfully leaves the door open at the end of this book for another volume to follow- hopefully soon!
Her books could easily be made into Hollywood movies or a television mini series, and I wish they would be-I believe they would be very popular.
April 29, 2016
When you get a call from your government asking you to help head a task forced to rescue an American Diplomat, you can’t turn it down. However, there’s a little glitch; you are now the personal babysitter for a very head strong and ambitious woman. Jake and Mya are both very strong and independent people and now they must shake that off and work together to save an innocent man and woman from their kidnappers. Can they let go of their dislikes and their prejudice’s to complete the mission?
I have to get this off my chest: I couldn’t get past Mya’s high handed personality. She was draining and annoying. I get tired of women that push themselves and act like they deserve more than they do, acting as if they always have something to prove. In what world does a lawyer have experience with the dangerous terrorist situation that they were going into? She’s with a team, many who are former SEALs and she’s demanding to be in charge? She is always throwing fits and acting like a child not getting what she wants. She’s with professionally trained military men, and she keeps getting upset when Jake doesn’t say please and thank you. He’s there for her protection, not to baby her. I was really hard for me to stick with this book. I did stick with it and it did get a little better, but it wasn’t one of my favorite books to read.
I have to get this off my chest: I couldn’t get past Mya’s high handed personality. She was draining and annoying. I get tired of women that push themselves and act like they deserve more than they do, acting as if they always have something to prove. In what world does a lawyer have experience with the dangerous terrorist situation that they were going into? She’s with a team, many who are former SEALs and she’s demanding to be in charge? She is always throwing fits and acting like a child not getting what she wants. She’s with professionally trained military men, and she keeps getting upset when Jake doesn’t say please and thank you. He’s there for her protection, not to baby her. I was really hard for me to stick with this book. I did stick with it and it did get a little better, but it wasn’t one of my favorite books to read.
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