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Hell Squad #9
Niko
In the aftermath of a deadly alien invasion, a band of survivors fights on...
Mackenna Carides is tough, strong, and excellent at her job as second-in-command of Squad Nine. She often works side by side with Hell Squad on some of the toughest missions to fight back against the alien raptors. Now she's helping the survivors of Blue Mountain Base settle into their new home at the Enclave. And that means working with the Enclave's sexy civilian leader, Nikolai Ivanov, an artist who watches her with an intensity that is hard to ignore. A man she's seen in the field and who she knows is hiding a mysterious past.
Niko is dedicated to the people of the Enclave and to his art. Once, his life was all about death and destruction, now it's about life and creation - even in the middle of an alien apocalypse. As he welcomes the Enclave's new members, there is one newcomer he wants to get closer to... but Mackenna is fighting their attraction. As something starts attacking their drones - vital technology for keeping them all safe - Niko realizes that in order to battle this new danger, he'll have to return to the darkness of his past... and risk Mackenna never looking at him the same way again.
On a dangerous mission to save their drones from the aliens, Niko will need all of his lethal skills and will wade into the fight with Mac by his side. They will be tested to the brink, where nothing is black or white, and they will have to expose themselves and trust each other to fight, live, and love.
200 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2016
380 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Anna Hackett
163 books2,923 followersI’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 1, 2016
... call him Nikolai
It is a nice addition to the series, but way too short!
I loved Niko and his cool assassin-spy persona that was reveal here! And I loved also his scorching hot persue of Mackenna. OMG his dirty talk!!! So unexpected if you consider his role as leader and artist!!!
I also like Mack. She knows that she's repressing herself and soon acknowledge the attraction to Niko! But I also liked her willingness to reject him if he didn't show her due respect!
The back story of drone-killer bird was a little far fetched, but interesting in a way... I liked the baby bird saved at the end and the connection to Selena!
I would love to read Selena's book - she's very intriguing character and I hope Ms. Hackett will write it!
Also, I'm looking forward to the next (Finn's) book! :)
July 2, 2016
Well this review is for the latest book detailing the antics of those humans who up until recently had been living in Blue Mountain and fighting the aliens who have invaded Earth. Having had their hide out discovered the survivors have made their way to the Enclave that houses those previously chosen by the corrupt President but it's no mean feat fitting in and distrust is an everyday occurance. Yet to flourish and defeat the reptile like aliens everyone must pull their weight which is easy for Mackenna as she is the tough no nonsense second in command of Nine Squad. Unfortunately the Enclave leader Nico is a rather tasty Russian with ideas of his own and a past that he can't ever escape !
If you enjoy likeable characters then this series might just be for you. I will admit I wasn't sure initially if I'd be gripped by this war that the author writes about but I've slowly found myself pulled in. There's a little technology involved although not so much that I feel out of my depth but enough that it's slightly futuristic. What the author seems to excel at though is the steamy chemistry that wraps around her characters . Admittedly Nico does occasionally lapse into his native tongue but for this reader I'd personally had liked perhaps a little more of that but then I guess Nico has perhaps lived in Australia for a while . Mac is no pushover and I got the feeling she's had to put up with a lot of prejudice so her reactions felt realistic. There's enough action here to make it an interesting story but I happily admit it's the Berserkers who tickle my fancy! So romance, action and always interesting as these survivors battle on!
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
If you enjoy likeable characters then this series might just be for you. I will admit I wasn't sure initially if I'd be gripped by this war that the author writes about but I've slowly found myself pulled in. There's a little technology involved although not so much that I feel out of my depth but enough that it's slightly futuristic. What the author seems to excel at though is the steamy chemistry that wraps around her characters . Admittedly Nico does occasionally lapse into his native tongue but for this reader I'd personally had liked perhaps a little more of that but then I guess Nico has perhaps lived in Australia for a while . Mac is no pushover and I got the feeling she's had to put up with a lot of prejudice so her reactions felt realistic. There's enough action here to make it an interesting story but I happily admit it's the Berserkers who tickle my fancy! So romance, action and always interesting as these survivors battle on!
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
March 26, 2019
Strong, confident, aloof Mackenna versus se*y, former Russian agent/assassin, now leader of Enclave Niko. I love when hero chases heroine relentlessly. The action and passion was as usual mind blowing.
Recommended.
Recommended.
August 21, 2018
These books are so short now I feel like I missed some pages, by the time the couple have sex the ily follow very shortly after which unfortunately makes it not believable at all nevertheless I liked Niko(love me a Russian!)who knew he had all that badass buried under the painter/leader. Mac was cool and definitely held her own. Thankfully it'd been a while sexually for the both of them so no ex hookups were about.The books are becoming a bit repetitive but I'm still holding on.
August 30, 2019
This series is hot as hell, it’s action-packed, and has a great plot, funny and brilliant characters and a well-developed storyline.
The world-building is pretty badass too.
Sydney, Australia overrun and destroyed by raptor looking aliens?
BADASS!
The survivors trying to take back their land. Finding love and companionship in the process.
STILL BADASS!
The couple in question is strong and loyal, MacKenna. A soldier from Squad Nine, and Nico, a leader of the Enclave with an interesting and dark background.
Nick decides he wants Mac, but Mac doesn’t want to be owned.
And yet that Russian leader can’t stay out of her thoughts.
Pretty darn good book. Was not expecting to like it as much, since their characters didn’t really speak to me in the previous books. However I was pleasantly surprised. Liked it a helluva lot.
Read:30/08/2019
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/sub-genres: Aliens/romance/action-packed/dystopian
Cover: 2.5 stars
POV: Dual- 3rd person (Nico & Mac- bonus 1 chapter from Finn).
Will I recommend: Yes, this series is awesome!!
The world-building is pretty badass too.
Sydney, Australia overrun and destroyed by raptor looking aliens?
BADASS!
The survivors trying to take back their land. Finding love and companionship in the process.
STILL BADASS!
The couple in question is strong and loyal, MacKenna. A soldier from Squad Nine, and Nico, a leader of the Enclave with an interesting and dark background.
Nick decides he wants Mac, but Mac doesn’t want to be owned.
And yet that Russian leader can’t stay out of her thoughts.
Pretty darn good book. Was not expecting to like it as much, since their characters didn’t really speak to me in the previous books. However I was pleasantly surprised. Liked it a helluva lot.
Read:30/08/2019
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/sub-genres: Aliens/romance/action-packed/dystopian
Cover: 2.5 stars
POV: Dual- 3rd person (Nico & Mac- bonus 1 chapter from Finn).
Will I recommend: Yes, this series is awesome!!
October 30, 2020
A nice change of pace from the previous stories, both with the couple, and unexpected beasts. I like how the world is evolving.
June 18, 2018
3.5 stars.
So in this one, we found out that Niko, the "cilivian" leader of the Enclave is more than just an artist and sparks fly pretty much straight away when Mackenna (Roth's 2IC) held a gun to him when they first arrived at the Enclave.
The drones, so vital to the fight against the aliens, are being hunted and destroyed by an unknown flying alien being and they need to eliminate it. And we discover more than Selena has been captured from her planet.
It's another solid addition, but I'm a bit confused about who's in charged now... Niko or Holmes?
So in this one, we found out that Niko, the "cilivian" leader of the Enclave is more than just an artist and sparks fly pretty much straight away when Mackenna (Roth's 2IC) held a gun to him when they first arrived at the Enclave.
The drones, so vital to the fight against the aliens, are being hunted and destroyed by an unknown flying alien being and they need to eliminate it. And we discover more than Selena has been captured from her planet.
It's another solid addition, but I'm a bit confused about who's in charged now... Niko or Holmes?
February 20, 2025
Николай (Нико) Иванов и Макена Каридис
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Николай Иванов е бъдещ военен и настоящ художник, който се е нагърбил с не леката задача да бъде управник на "Кошера", подземна тайна база, в която бившия президент на обединената федерация е подбрал група учени, артисти и богаташи, които да бъдат спасени, след като планетата е нападната от извънземна раса. Нико не е и подозирал, че човека, за който всички вярват, че ги е спасил, всъщност е дал информация за всички военни бази на врага, за да се спаси. Сега президента го няма и на Нико се пада да взима тежките решения, по тази причина, когато базата Блу Маутън е нападната и хората криещи се в нея имат нужда от убежище, той им го предоставя приветствайки ги в Кошера. А измежду новодошлите е Макена , миньонче, част от бойният 9ти отряд, която изглежда не иска да има нищо общо с него.
Макена Каридис е част от отрядите охраняващи базата Блу Маутън. Свикнала винаги да бъде подценявана заради дребният си ръст и пола си, Макена и войнствено настроена и готова да срита задника на всеки, който реши да й казва какво да прави. Озовавайки се в Кошера, Макена се запознава с Нико, е привлечена на мига от него. Но той е много извън лигата й. Оправник, докато тя е просто един войник, и смята, че няма никаква работа да се забърква с някой като него. Но Нико изглежда е твърдо решен да я има, и не смята да приеме Не за отговор.
Непозната заплаха започва да унищожава дроновете, с които военните в базата си набавят информация и с които си комуникират по време на мисиите, затова сега на Нико и Макена ще им се наложи да работят заедно, за да открият и отстранят проблема, без значение дали искат да го направят заедно, или не.
Анна за пореден път ни въведе в един свят раздиран от война и отново събра двама коренно различни по характер души. Историята беше интересна, действието напрегнато и екшъна на макс. Хареса ми да видя от близо отношенията на момичетата в отряд 9, начина по който постоянно се подкачаха и подиграваха една на друга. Хареса ми това, че постоянно се срещаме с двойките от предишните книги и адски ми допадна, че можем да видим как се развиват отношенията между двойки, които ще се съберат в следващите книги. Тук се запознахме по-близко с Лия, която познавахме само по име до сега, и видяхме начина по който се дърли с Фин. Следващата книга ще е за тях, и нямам търпение. Също продължаваме да виждаме начина, по който Хеми постоянно юрка и подкача Камрин, и как тя все му се нерви. Вече трета книга подред ставаме свидетели на шантавото "ухажване" на Хеми, и докато дойде тяхната история в 13та книга, ако Камерин не го гръмне, ще е истинско чудо.
Доволна съм от химията и начина по който се развиха нещата за Нико и Макена и очаквам с нетърпение да се срещам с тях и занапред.
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Николай Иванов е бъдещ военен и настоящ художник, който се е нагърбил с не леката задача да бъде управник на "Кошера", подземна тайна база, в която бившия президент на обединената федерация е подбрал група учени, артисти и богаташи, които да бъдат спасени, след като планетата е нападната от извънземна раса. Нико не е и подозирал, че човека, за който всички вярват, че ги е спасил, всъщност е дал информация за всички военни бази на врага, за да се спаси. Сега президента го няма и на Нико се пада да взима тежките решения, по тази причина, когато базата Блу Маутън е нападната и хората криещи се в нея имат нужда от убежище, той им го предоставя приветствайки ги в Кошера. А измежду новодошлите е Макена , миньонче, част от бойният 9ти отряд, която изглежда не иска да има нищо общо с него.
Макена Каридис е част от отрядите охраняващи базата Блу Маутън. Свикнала винаги да бъде подценявана заради дребният си ръст и пола си, Макена и войнствено настроена и готова да срита задника на всеки, който реши да й казва какво да прави. Озовавайки се в Кошера, Макена се запознава с Нико, е привлечена на мига от него. Но той е много извън лигата й. Оправник, докато тя е просто един войник, и смята, че няма никаква работа да се забърква с някой като него. Но Нико изглежда е твърдо решен да я има, и не смята да приеме Не за отговор.
Непозната заплаха започва да унищожава дроновете, с които военните в базата си набавят информация и с които си комуникират по време на мисиите, затова сега на Нико и Макена ще им се наложи да работят заедно, за да открият и отстранят проблема, без значение дали искат да го направят заедно, или не.
Анна за пореден път ни въведе в един свят раздиран от война и отново събра двама коренно различни по характер души. Историята беше интересна, действието напрегнато и екшъна на макс. Хареса ми да видя от близо отношенията на момичетата в отряд 9, начина по който постоянно се подкачаха и подиграваха една на друга. Хареса ми това, че постоянно се срещаме с двойките от предишните книги и адски ми допадна, че можем да видим как се развиват отношенията между двойки, които ще се съберат в следващите книги. Тук се запознахме по-близко с Лия, която познавахме само по име до сега, и видяхме начина по който се дърли с Фин. Следващата книга ще е за тях, и нямам търпение. Също продължаваме да виждаме начина, по който Хеми постоянно юрка и подкача Камрин, и как тя все му се нерви. Вече трета книга подред ставаме свидетели на шантавото "ухажване" на Хеми, и докато дойде тяхната история в 13та книга, ако Камерин не го гръмне, ще е истинско чудо.
Доволна съм от химията и начина по който се развиха нещата за Нико и Макена и очаквам с нетърпение да се срещам с тях и занапред.
February 24, 2025
Series: Hell Squad #9
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
The Blue Mountain Base survivors are finally at the Enclave and making plans to take down the Gizzida. Mackenna is second in command of Squad Nine and is now working with the sexy leader of the Enclave, Nikolai Ivanov. These two team up on a dangerous mission to stop a drone killer and they finally realize how much they care for each other.
This is the first book with the new base with all new people. Niko and Mackenna are both passionate and dedicated to their jobs. They both let their pasts keep them from opening up to people. I really liked Mac. She is a kickass heroine who takes no shit. I can always count on Hackett to write amazing female characters that I wish I could imitate. She also has a vulnerable side that Niko discovers and brings out. He encourages her to be her true self and not just the tough woman she portrays.
Niko has a surprising past. He worked for Russian Intelligence and was an assassin. He tries to hide for fear of what Mackenna will think. While Niko can be deadly he has a gentle artistic soul.
While working together to bring down a drone killer, these two learn to open themselves up again and to trust each other.
This was another great action packed book for the series and I cannot wait to dive into the next one.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
The Blue Mountain Base survivors are finally at the Enclave and making plans to take down the Gizzida. Mackenna is second in command of Squad Nine and is now working with the sexy leader of the Enclave, Nikolai Ivanov. These two team up on a dangerous mission to stop a drone killer and they finally realize how much they care for each other.
This is the first book with the new base with all new people. Niko and Mackenna are both passionate and dedicated to their jobs. They both let their pasts keep them from opening up to people. I really liked Mac. She is a kickass heroine who takes no shit. I can always count on Hackett to write amazing female characters that I wish I could imitate. She also has a vulnerable side that Niko discovers and brings out. He encourages her to be her true self and not just the tough woman she portrays.
“With him, she felt okay about leaning on someone. She no longer felt the need to be tougher or stronger…she could just be Mackenna.”
Niko has a surprising past. He worked for Russian Intelligence and was an assassin. He tries to hide for fear of what Mackenna will think. While Niko can be deadly he has a gentle artistic soul.
While working together to bring down a drone killer, these two learn to open themselves up again and to trust each other.
“I don’t regret a single second with you, Mackenna. You make it bearable. You make it all worthwhile.”
This was another great action packed book for the series and I cannot wait to dive into the next one.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
March 21, 2021
Fun, but Mac and Niko were a little bit forgettable. But consider me very excited for the rest of Squad Nine's books and Finn looks set to be a treat, along with the continued fight for humanity. Great stuff.
June 30, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
I love this series. But as much as I love it, I think it may be time for it to wind to a close. I’m saying that partly because I want these plucky survivors to finally kick the Gizzida off our planet, and partly because it feels like the two romantic patterns used in the series have played out their variations.
Of course, if the author manages to surprise me with something new and different in the next book in the series, I will be pleasantly and joyously surprised.
Niko’s romance first appears to be following the pattern set by Noah, where the guy is some type of civilian and the woman is a soldier. (Marcus started this pattern in general, where one party is a soldier and the other is a civilian, but in the case of Marcus, Gabe and others, the guy is the soldier and the female is the civilian).
However, it turns out that Niko, the leader of the Enclave group of survivors, is actually a former Russian assassin, so the story turns out to be one of the ones where both parties, as in Cruz and Shaw, are soldiers of one stripe or another.
Because the heroine of Niko, Mackenna Carides, is definitely a soldier. She’s the second in command of Roth’s Squad Nine. She’s also a woman who was taught by her strict soldier-father that emotions made a soldier weak. To Mackenna, love is the ultimate distraction, and she refuses to even acknowledge the heat between Niko and her unwilling self.
But Niko isn’t willing to let Mackenna go. She’s the first woman who has made him feel much of anything at all in the months since the Gizzida landed, and he’s not willing to turn aside from something that makes life worth living and worth fighting for.
So when the Gizzida start knocking out the survivors’ crucial drone force, Niko attaches himself to the strike teams. It’s the only way he can keep Mackenna safe without questioning her abilities.
He’s already made that mistake once, and it cost him dearly. He’s afraid that letting the deadly assassin that he used to be out of its cage will make Mackenna retreat from him yet again. But those skills that he once put to use targeting his country’s enemies may be the only things that can save his friends now.
Escape Rating B: It’s time to kick Gizzida ass off our Earth. After 9 books that show just how dystopian things have gotten after the alien apocalypse landed, it just plain feels like time for the overall plot to get resolved.
Things can’t keep going the way they are. The Gizzida are much more powerful than the remaining Earth forces, they have all the tech and intel that they could possibly need, and every human that they capture is another potential Borg. Whoops, I meant Gizzida.
They also have no interest in peace or compromise. They are basically intelligent (very intelligent) Borg locusts. If this war of attrition continues, they will “attrit” the human race out of existence.
So since I just can’t bear the thought of a book where the last two humans die in each other’s arms, somehow the human resistance has to kick the Gizzida out. And because the two romance patterns in the series feel like they’ve explored all their possible options, my personal opinion is that this needs to head towards a wrap up.
Your warp speed, of course, may vary.
As much as I enjoy this series, part of my sense that it is time to wrap it up may come from my reactions to Niko and Mackenna themselves. Niko’s baggage dealt with his time as a Russian assassin, but did not get nearly as much into how he felt about discovering that he was fooled by their late and unlamented leader (see Roth for details on those events) Mackenna’s baggage was dropped on her shoulders by her cold and strict father. We only get hints about what makes Mackenna tick, and it didn’t feel like enough. Also, it is hard to have the baggage go back to pre-Gizzida Earth, when there is more than enough post-Gizzida trauma to give anyone nightmares.
For this reader, it just feels like it’s time to kick Gizzida butt.
I love this series. But as much as I love it, I think it may be time for it to wind to a close. I’m saying that partly because I want these plucky survivors to finally kick the Gizzida off our planet, and partly because it feels like the two romantic patterns used in the series have played out their variations.
Of course, if the author manages to surprise me with something new and different in the next book in the series, I will be pleasantly and joyously surprised.
Niko’s romance first appears to be following the pattern set by Noah, where the guy is some type of civilian and the woman is a soldier. (Marcus started this pattern in general, where one party is a soldier and the other is a civilian, but in the case of Marcus, Gabe and others, the guy is the soldier and the female is the civilian).
However, it turns out that Niko, the leader of the Enclave group of survivors, is actually a former Russian assassin, so the story turns out to be one of the ones where both parties, as in Cruz and Shaw, are soldiers of one stripe or another.
Because the heroine of Niko, Mackenna Carides, is definitely a soldier. She’s the second in command of Roth’s Squad Nine. She’s also a woman who was taught by her strict soldier-father that emotions made a soldier weak. To Mackenna, love is the ultimate distraction, and she refuses to even acknowledge the heat between Niko and her unwilling self.
But Niko isn’t willing to let Mackenna go. She’s the first woman who has made him feel much of anything at all in the months since the Gizzida landed, and he’s not willing to turn aside from something that makes life worth living and worth fighting for.
So when the Gizzida start knocking out the survivors’ crucial drone force, Niko attaches himself to the strike teams. It’s the only way he can keep Mackenna safe without questioning her abilities.
He’s already made that mistake once, and it cost him dearly. He’s afraid that letting the deadly assassin that he used to be out of its cage will make Mackenna retreat from him yet again. But those skills that he once put to use targeting his country’s enemies may be the only things that can save his friends now.
Escape Rating B: It’s time to kick Gizzida ass off our Earth. After 9 books that show just how dystopian things have gotten after the alien apocalypse landed, it just plain feels like time for the overall plot to get resolved.
Things can’t keep going the way they are. The Gizzida are much more powerful than the remaining Earth forces, they have all the tech and intel that they could possibly need, and every human that they capture is another potential Borg. Whoops, I meant Gizzida.
They also have no interest in peace or compromise. They are basically intelligent (very intelligent) Borg locusts. If this war of attrition continues, they will “attrit” the human race out of existence.
So since I just can’t bear the thought of a book where the last two humans die in each other’s arms, somehow the human resistance has to kick the Gizzida out. And because the two romance patterns in the series feel like they’ve explored all their possible options, my personal opinion is that this needs to head towards a wrap up.
Your warp speed, of course, may vary.
As much as I enjoy this series, part of my sense that it is time to wrap it up may come from my reactions to Niko and Mackenna themselves. Niko’s baggage dealt with his time as a Russian assassin, but did not get nearly as much into how he felt about discovering that he was fooled by their late and unlamented leader (see Roth for details on those events) Mackenna’s baggage was dropped on her shoulders by her cold and strict father. We only get hints about what makes Mackenna tick, and it didn’t feel like enough. Also, it is hard to have the baggage go back to pre-Gizzida Earth, when there is more than enough post-Gizzida trauma to give anyone nightmares.
For this reader, it just feels like it’s time to kick Gizzida butt.
November 13, 2022
I enjoyed NIKO as we got to meet some of the people living at the Enclave and see how the two groups are beginning to blend together. Mac and Niko are our first couple from this new place and after their unique meeting at the end of the last book, I was really looking forward to this one. Both these characters are passionate and dedicated and they haven't opened themselves up to anyone else in awhile.
Mac grew up with a tough father and 3 older brothers and she's been taught not to get attached to anything. Niko has a past in the Russian Intelligence Agency that he'd rather keep hidden for fear of what Mac will think of him. But under the pressure of stopping more of their drones being taken down by the aliens, Mac and Niko must work together and learn to trust.
I enjoyed Mac's strength and determination -- she's a tough, kick ass woman and I appreciate how Anna Hackett isn't afraid to write a strong female lead. At the same time, we see some of Mac's vulnerabilities and her softer side and as Niko discovers this too he encourages Mac to be her whole self with him. I also enjoyed Niko who has a rough past but is a truly gentle person with an artistic soul. Niko is a bit naughty and I loved how his more playful side helped Mac loosen up. It's hard for Niko to watch Mac go into the field and risk her life each day but he also respects her skills and strength. It takes a bit for both Mac and Niko to work out being together and they make some mistakes along the way but in the end they work things out.
With plenty of action and sexy romance, NIKO was a great read and I can't wait for more.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
He reached up, his hand circling her throat and smearing clay on her skin. “I don’t regret a single second with you, Mackenna. You make it bearable. You make it all worthwhile.” He leaned forward and kissed her.
- - - - -
With him, she felt okay about leaning on someone. She no longer felt the need to be tougher or stronger…she could just be Mackenna.
- - - - -
“I’m in love with you, Nikolai Ivanov. Who you were, who you are, and who you will be with me.”
- - - - -
“God, Mackenna. You bewitched me from the moment you held a gun to my head.”
Mac grew up with a tough father and 3 older brothers and she's been taught not to get attached to anything. Niko has a past in the Russian Intelligence Agency that he'd rather keep hidden for fear of what Mac will think of him. But under the pressure of stopping more of their drones being taken down by the aliens, Mac and Niko must work together and learn to trust.
I enjoyed Mac's strength and determination -- she's a tough, kick ass woman and I appreciate how Anna Hackett isn't afraid to write a strong female lead. At the same time, we see some of Mac's vulnerabilities and her softer side and as Niko discovers this too he encourages Mac to be her whole self with him. I also enjoyed Niko who has a rough past but is a truly gentle person with an artistic soul. Niko is a bit naughty and I loved how his more playful side helped Mac loosen up. It's hard for Niko to watch Mac go into the field and risk her life each day but he also respects her skills and strength. It takes a bit for both Mac and Niko to work out being together and they make some mistakes along the way but in the end they work things out.
With plenty of action and sexy romance, NIKO was a great read and I can't wait for more.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
He reached up, his hand circling her throat and smearing clay on her skin. “I don’t regret a single second with you, Mackenna. You make it bearable. You make it all worthwhile.” He leaned forward and kissed her.
- - - - -
With him, she felt okay about leaning on someone. She no longer felt the need to be tougher or stronger…she could just be Mackenna.
- - - - -
“I’m in love with you, Nikolai Ivanov. Who you were, who you are, and who you will be with me.”
- - - - -
“God, Mackenna. You bewitched me from the moment you held a gun to my head.”
November 17, 2022
NIKO, #9 is a fast moving, hope-filled dystopian novel with a lot of action, suspense, plenty of Steamy scenes of intimacy and a HFN (dystopian)/HEA. I purchased and listened to the audio version nicely read by Jeffrey Kafer and Samantha Cook.
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 Stars. I am enjoying this series. NIKO was a bit slow to start but I enjoyed the action scenarios when they arrived.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
NIKO ~ 2 weeks after the Blue Mountain “survivors” arrive at the Enclave, (after Holmes,#8).
Nikolai/Niko Ivanov, an artist, is one of the leaders of the Enclave. He is a former Russian assassin of the highest caliber, a secret he has managed to keep quiet for the past ten years. When Gen Holmes’ Blue Mountain survivors and soldiers arrive and begin making plans for strategic infiltrations and reconnaissance of the alien enemy, Niko’s past become known among the inner group of fighters. Once the former military personnel get past their initial shock, it is agreed that Niko’s finely tested training and expertise is a real asset to their small group.
Although Mackenna/“Mac” Carides, is of small frame, she is a tough, no-nonsense, competent black belt fighter. As 2nd in Command of unit Squad 9, Mac assists in leading her team fearlessly as they fly their Darkswift gliders into enemy territory on rescue and recon missions. It is Mac who first discovers that the Enclave leader, artist Nikolai “Niko” is actually more than he claims. NIKO, #9 is Nikolai and Mackenna’s story.
Comments ~
1) I enjoyed the suspense and action scenes in NIKO but I thought it was slow in coming. The first part of NIKO is heavier in character development (Niko is a new character) and intimacy scenes. I liked the latter portion of the story (with the action scenes) best. I thought the story was just getting interesting when it ended. These books (at least the latter ones in the Hell Squad series) almost remind me of serials in a mini-series or individual episodes in a television series - which doesn’t have to be a bad thing - just saying.
2) Both Nikolai and Mac were characters I could understand and like. It was easy to want them to survive the various attacks and gain their well deserved HEA/HFN (dystopian).
3) NIKO is a dystopian novel. Readers who are willing to let go of reality, logical thinking, scientific facts and just settle in for the ride will find the most enjoyment in this series.
4) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading (NIKO was a 3.5hr audio at my listening speed), great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work. I am finding the story arc a captivating journey.
5) Although NIKO might be read as a standalone title, I really don’t recommend it at this point. NIKO is the 9th book in a 20 bk series with an ongoing story arc. A lot of continuity and character development will be missed starting with NIKO. I prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
6) I thought the reading by Kafer and Cook was well done. They were challenged with various accents (Russian and English), as well as the intimacy scenes, which must have been fun for them. ;) (I purchased nearly the entire audio series when they went on Sale).
7) Overall, I am enjoying this series and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of detailed steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (and above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (and above).
*Quick reading romance novels to insert between other genres and tropes (and are okay with light dystopian settings and steamy scenes).
*Imperfect alpha-type male characters who commit 100%+ to the woman they love and appreciate complicated, authentic, resilient women
READER CAUTION ~ Not recommended to YA readers or to those who prefer Clean fiction.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
VIOLENCE - PG. Involves military and aliens. Think Godzilla or the like. Not particularly dark or graphic.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed intimacy scenes occur between the 2 MCs fairy early in the book making this, at times, a rather steamy story. I fast forward through them.
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 Stars. I am enjoying this series. NIKO was a bit slow to start but I enjoyed the action scenarios when they arrived.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
NIKO ~ 2 weeks after the Blue Mountain “survivors” arrive at the Enclave, (after Holmes,#8).
Nikolai/Niko Ivanov, an artist, is one of the leaders of the Enclave. He is a former Russian assassin of the highest caliber, a secret he has managed to keep quiet for the past ten years. When Gen Holmes’ Blue Mountain survivors and soldiers arrive and begin making plans for strategic infiltrations and reconnaissance of the alien enemy, Niko’s past become known among the inner group of fighters. Once the former military personnel get past their initial shock, it is agreed that Niko’s finely tested training and expertise is a real asset to their small group.
Although Mackenna/“Mac” Carides, is of small frame, she is a tough, no-nonsense, competent black belt fighter. As 2nd in Command of unit Squad 9, Mac assists in leading her team fearlessly as they fly their Darkswift gliders into enemy territory on rescue and recon missions. It is Mac who first discovers that the Enclave leader, artist Nikolai “Niko” is actually more than he claims. NIKO, #9 is Nikolai and Mackenna’s story.
Comments ~
1) I enjoyed the suspense and action scenes in NIKO but I thought it was slow in coming. The first part of NIKO is heavier in character development (Niko is a new character) and intimacy scenes. I liked the latter portion of the story (with the action scenes) best. I thought the story was just getting interesting when it ended. These books (at least the latter ones in the Hell Squad series) almost remind me of serials in a mini-series or individual episodes in a television series - which doesn’t have to be a bad thing - just saying.
2) Both Nikolai and Mac were characters I could understand and like. It was easy to want them to survive the various attacks and gain their well deserved HEA/HFN (dystopian).
3) NIKO is a dystopian novel. Readers who are willing to let go of reality, logical thinking, scientific facts and just settle in for the ride will find the most enjoyment in this series.
4) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading (NIKO was a 3.5hr audio at my listening speed), great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work. I am finding the story arc a captivating journey.
5) Although NIKO might be read as a standalone title, I really don’t recommend it at this point. NIKO is the 9th book in a 20 bk series with an ongoing story arc. A lot of continuity and character development will be missed starting with NIKO. I prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
6) I thought the reading by Kafer and Cook was well done. They were challenged with various accents (Russian and English), as well as the intimacy scenes, which must have been fun for them. ;) (I purchased nearly the entire audio series when they went on Sale).
7) Overall, I am enjoying this series and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of detailed steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (and above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (and above).
*Quick reading romance novels to insert between other genres and tropes (and are okay with light dystopian settings and steamy scenes).
*Imperfect alpha-type male characters who commit 100%+ to the woman they love and appreciate complicated, authentic, resilient women
READER CAUTION ~ Not recommended to YA readers or to those who prefer Clean fiction.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
VIOLENCE - PG. Involves military and aliens. Think Godzilla or the like. Not particularly dark or graphic.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed intimacy scenes occur between the 2 MCs fairy early in the book making this, at times, a rather steamy story. I fast forward through them.
March 23, 2025
SEXY LEADER OF THE ENCLAVE
Nikolai Ivanov, Niko, is the current leader of the Enclave base. This super-secret luxurious base was built by former President Howell, at the time leader of the United Coalition. Howell selfishly abandoned his human constituents to save his own skin. He hand-picked “special people” to live out the alien invasion in comfort and safety. Howell was recently lost to the alien Gizzida.
Besides being the base leader Niko is a driven gifted artist excelling in many mediums, but he has a hidden past. Niko worked in the Russian Government doing unsavory things. Disgusted with his life, he fled Russia and melted into art communities.
After a traumatic journey, the residents of the Blue Mountain Base arrived at the Enclave. Mackenna Carides, Mac, of Squad Nine scouts out the area when she spots an armed human. Taking no chances, she taps him with her carbine and that’s how she meets Niko. He can’t believe this beautiful intense little warrior snuck up on him. And Niko has his sights set on capturing this lady's attention. Mac fights their attraction for as long as she can but ultimately Niko gets under her skin. Niko is a great guy and openly welcomes the people of Blue Mountain Base and their idea of fighting for the extinction of the Gizzida. It's getting juicy. LOTS OF ACTION. I am re-reading the entire Hell Squad series, and I love every story. Linda
Nikolai Ivanov, Niko, is the current leader of the Enclave base. This super-secret luxurious base was built by former President Howell, at the time leader of the United Coalition. Howell selfishly abandoned his human constituents to save his own skin. He hand-picked “special people” to live out the alien invasion in comfort and safety. Howell was recently lost to the alien Gizzida.
Besides being the base leader Niko is a driven gifted artist excelling in many mediums, but he has a hidden past. Niko worked in the Russian Government doing unsavory things. Disgusted with his life, he fled Russia and melted into art communities.
After a traumatic journey, the residents of the Blue Mountain Base arrived at the Enclave. Mackenna Carides, Mac, of Squad Nine scouts out the area when she spots an armed human. Taking no chances, she taps him with her carbine and that’s how she meets Niko. He can’t believe this beautiful intense little warrior snuck up on him. And Niko has his sights set on capturing this lady's attention. Mac fights their attraction for as long as she can but ultimately Niko gets under her skin. Niko is a great guy and openly welcomes the people of Blue Mountain Base and their idea of fighting for the extinction of the Gizzida. It's getting juicy. LOTS OF ACTION. I am re-reading the entire Hell Squad series, and I love every story. Linda
September 16, 2018
The fight for the survival of the human race with Hell Squad and crew marches on. Frankly, things have been sort of crazy for the Blue Mountain survivors lately. They've finally reached the Enclave and...well, things are still crazy. A slightly different crazy, but still crazy.
That said, finding a haven of relative safety after being on the run gives everyone a chance to relax somewhat. Some people are better at relaxing than others, but so it goes. One who has a tough time at the relaxing thing? Mackenna. She's wound pretty tight. Then again, so is Niko. He's just a little more in tune with ways to unwind.
Thus begins the glorious push and pull of the tough soldier and the leader with a hidden side. Throw in a coordinated attack on their drones that has the potential to do a lot of damage and, well, things are as action-packed as ever for these survivors.
I'm eyeballing whose books are coming up and... *rubs hands together gleefully* I do love watching stoic soldiers (and everyone else!) fall for their special someone.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
That said, finding a haven of relative safety after being on the run gives everyone a chance to relax somewhat. Some people are better at relaxing than others, but so it goes. One who has a tough time at the relaxing thing? Mackenna. She's wound pretty tight. Then again, so is Niko. He's just a little more in tune with ways to unwind.
Thus begins the glorious push and pull of the tough soldier and the leader with a hidden side. Throw in a coordinated attack on their drones that has the potential to do a lot of damage and, well, things are as action-packed as ever for these survivors.
I'm eyeballing whose books are coming up and... *rubs hands together gleefully* I do love watching stoic soldiers (and everyone else!) fall for their special someone.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
May 27, 2020
Gritty and captivating
I've loved getting to know the hell squad and survivors from the blue mountain base and now we get to meet the Enclave. I wasn't sure if this would ruin the books going from desperate and fighting to survive to a Haven full of the rich and powerful but thankfully it didn't. The book had new depth, New heroes and a more focused sense of survival.
Anna continues to build on the world she has created, adding more depth to the characters and a more intense emotional contention to everything they have to endure. The battle is no where near over and I'm excited to read more.
I've loved getting to know the hell squad and survivors from the blue mountain base and now we get to meet the Enclave. I wasn't sure if this would ruin the books going from desperate and fighting to survive to a Haven full of the rich and powerful but thankfully it didn't. The book had new depth, New heroes and a more focused sense of survival.
Anna continues to build on the world she has created, adding more depth to the characters and a more intense emotional contention to everything they have to endure. The battle is no where near over and I'm excited to read more.
May 17, 2021
3.5 Es un libro que me sorprendio, no conocemos tanto a Niko en los libros anteriores, recién en los últimos se empieza a nombrar y aparecer muy muy poco, entonces no sabia que esperar, pero me gusto mucho conocerlo, la pareja que se forma entre el y Mac me gusto bastante, fueron entretenidas las misiones que tuvieron y lo disfrute mucho, para mi gusto me hubiera gustado conocer más de ambos, pero tal vez sea porque a diferencia de los protagonistas de libros anteriores los conocemos casi desde el primer libro, pero igualmente me gusto mucho.
March 26, 2020
*2.5* This was pretty meh for me. I liked the storyline better than Mac and Niko. Their relationship felt very forced to me. Almost as if Anna Hackett was just pairing people up for the hell of it. I only finished this to continue on to Finn which is the next book. I'd say skip this, but unfortunately, all the books in this series continue where the last one left off and you'd be a little lost if one were missed. That said, this wasn't awful and it wasn't great.
April 18, 2021
Niko and Mackenna
Aliens have invaded Earth, but survivors are determined to fight back. Book nine in the Hell Squad series features Niko, leader of the Enclave, and Mackenna, a soldier from Team 9. Can they work together to keep the residwnts of the Enclave safe?
So good! I love Niko and Mac. Their chemistry is off the charts. Lots of danger, laughter, bad aliens, and smexy-times. Highly recommend.
Read in KU.
Aliens have invaded Earth, but survivors are determined to fight back. Book nine in the Hell Squad series features Niko, leader of the Enclave, and Mackenna, a soldier from Team 9. Can they work together to keep the residwnts of the Enclave safe?
So good! I love Niko and Mac. Their chemistry is off the charts. Lots of danger, laughter, bad aliens, and smexy-times. Highly recommend.
Read in KU.
October 9, 2022
Niko...
Hell Squad book 9. Full of action, hot angst and hella drama. Nikolai and Mackenna aka Mac. He super secretive artist and she's a badass soldier on Squad 9. Hell Squad and the people from the Base reach the Enclave and Niko falls for Mac. But everything isn't what it seems. The Enclave and peeps from the Base must battle more aliens. Nikolai and Mac battle their feelings and the bad guys but when they get together it's so hot and sensual. A worthy read.
Hell Squad book 9. Full of action, hot angst and hella drama. Nikolai and Mackenna aka Mac. He super secretive artist and she's a badass soldier on Squad 9. Hell Squad and the people from the Base reach the Enclave and Niko falls for Mac. But everything isn't what it seems. The Enclave and peeps from the Base must battle more aliens. Nikolai and Mac battle their feelings and the bad guys but when they get together it's so hot and sensual. A worthy read.
September 5, 2025
Ok read
Like stated in another review, you really should read this from the beginning. Although the romance element is pretty much all the same across the books, the evolution of the alien war is good and ever changing. I was hoping something good was about to happen for the civilians but was disappointed.
I do miss the original Hell Squad characters.
This was an ok read but a lot like the others.
Like stated in another review, you really should read this from the beginning. Although the romance element is pretty much all the same across the books, the evolution of the alien war is good and ever changing. I was hoping something good was about to happen for the civilians but was disappointed.
I do miss the original Hell Squad characters.
This was an ok read but a lot like the others.
July 27, 2018
Niko and Mac!!
Still love Marcus and Elle the most but Nico and Mac are a close second. Loved that Nico was the real Mac. The one she keeps hidden. She thinks that to be respected she has to be tough at all times. Nick has a secret past and worries Mac will view him differently. Quickly they find love. Very good.
Still love Marcus and Elle the most but Nico and Mac are a close second. Loved that Nico was the real Mac. The one she keeps hidden. She thinks that to be respected she has to be tough at all times. Nick has a secret past and worries Mac will view him differently. Quickly they find love. Very good.
July 3, 2019
Nico and Mac
Nico leader of the Enclave wants Mac #2 on Squad 6 from the moment he sees her. He ruins his chance, perhaps for good when he tries to dictate her actions. Mac has to decide if she'll let him in or remain alone. Together they fight with the rest of the squads to go on the offensive against the aliens.
Nico leader of the Enclave wants Mac #2 on Squad 6 from the moment he sees her. He ruins his chance, perhaps for good when he tries to dictate her actions. Mac has to decide if she'll let him in or remain alone. Together they fight with the rest of the squads to go on the offensive against the aliens.
June 14, 2022
Triumphant
This story is a mix of triumph and failure, much like life. The two factions, the Blue Mountain group and the Enclave group, are beginning to mesh into a cohesive society. Now they are focusing on forming a plan to defeat the invaders. Full of action, adventure and romance, you will love this book if you like that mix.
This story is a mix of triumph and failure, much like life. The two factions, the Blue Mountain group and the Enclave group, are beginning to mesh into a cohesive society. Now they are focusing on forming a plan to defeat the invaders. Full of action, adventure and romance, you will love this book if you like that mix.
July 21, 2022
Method: ebook
Rating: 4/5 stars
H rating: 4/5 - Niko
h rating: 4/5 - Mackenna
Drama: 3/5
Thoughts: Love this author - will continue series.
October 17, 2017
Finally at the enclave
Good addition to the Hell squad series!😁 Mac and Niko were both strong characters that I just couldn't help rooting for. Although it was good it was not my favorite in the series.
Good addition to the Hell squad series!😁 Mac and Niko were both strong characters that I just couldn't help rooting for. Although it was good it was not my favorite in the series.
February 7, 2018
Good book!
This series continues to be awesome! It really leaves you on the edge of you seat biting your nails anxiously waiting for what's coming next. The only negative is sometimes the sex is a tad repetitive from book to book. Nothing big and it's still HOT and awesome.
This series continues to be awesome! It really leaves you on the edge of you seat biting your nails anxiously waiting for what's coming next. The only negative is sometimes the sex is a tad repetitive from book to book. Nothing big and it's still HOT and awesome.
January 14, 2019
Sexy, creative, and unexpected
This story had it all. Two sexy main characters, Check. Bloody fight scenes, Check. Unexpected twists, Check. And difficult baggage each character had to overcome, Check. I loved this story and can’t wait for #10!
This story had it all. Two sexy main characters, Check. Bloody fight scenes, Check. Unexpected twists, Check. And difficult baggage each character had to overcome, Check. I loved this story and can’t wait for #10!
May 29, 2022
perfect together
Great getting to know and love each other story. Just enough back story to get read on them.
On other note. Why didn’t the alien that can communicate with animals go with them and try to “speak” with the bird?
And why didn’t they plant explosives on ship.
Great getting to know and love each other story. Just enough back story to get read on them.
On other note. Why didn’t the alien that can communicate with animals go with them and try to “speak” with the bird?
And why didn’t they plant explosives on ship.
September 4, 2017
This probably deserves a higher rating, but I read it back-to-back with Holmes, and the stories were way too similar.
Still nice to read more about Squad 9.
I will continue to read this series.
Still nice to read more about Squad 9.
I will continue to read this series.
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