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Hell Squad #7
Shaw
In the aftermath of a deadly alien invasion, a band of survivors fights on…
Hell Squad sniper Shaw Baird is a man on a mission. His squad is his family and now the invading aliens have done the unforgivable…taken one of his team. Claudia Frost—soldier, friend, and all-round badass—is running on borrowed time. Shaw has vowed to bring her home, whatever it takes…and he’s only just realizing now she’s been taken that Claudia is a vital piece of him.
Claudia Frost is surviving…barely. Kept in chains, made to fight for the aliens’ enjoyment, she can’t survive much longer. But she knows her squad is coming for her…knows Shaw is coming. Only thoughts of the sexy, charming sniper get her through the hell, and for the first time in forever, she wishes she hadn’t let the wounds of her past stop her from taking a taste of the man who is her friend, her sanity and her secret obsession.
But rescuing Claudia is only the first dangerous step. The alien keeping Claudia prisoner is far more intelligent, far more patient and a hell of a lot deadlier than any they’ve faced before. Not only is he hunting their band of human survivors through the forests of the Blue Mountains, but he wants Claudia. And he’ll let nothing get in his way.
Hell Squad sniper Shaw Baird is a man on a mission. His squad is his family and now the invading aliens have done the unforgivable…taken one of his team. Claudia Frost—soldier, friend, and all-round badass—is running on borrowed time. Shaw has vowed to bring her home, whatever it takes…and he’s only just realizing now she’s been taken that Claudia is a vital piece of him.
Claudia Frost is surviving…barely. Kept in chains, made to fight for the aliens’ enjoyment, she can’t survive much longer. But she knows her squad is coming for her…knows Shaw is coming. Only thoughts of the sexy, charming sniper get her through the hell, and for the first time in forever, she wishes she hadn’t let the wounds of her past stop her from taking a taste of the man who is her friend, her sanity and her secret obsession.
But rescuing Claudia is only the first dangerous step. The alien keeping Claudia prisoner is far more intelligent, far more patient and a hell of a lot deadlier than any they’ve faced before. Not only is he hunting their band of human survivors through the forests of the Blue Mountains, but he wants Claudia. And he’ll let nothing get in his way.
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 25, 2016
About the author
Anna Hackett
179 books3,019 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 112 reviews
June 14, 2017
Gotta say. No matter how good the story might have been, I just could not get past the disgusting manwhore history of Shaw and that Claudia had a front row seat to all of it. Just so gross!!!! And for her to have had a cheating ex, I just cannot believe she could ever trust him. And to have to live with the hoards of women he fucked...just no!!!
That being said, the story was good and advanced the series plot along. I knew going in that Shaw was a whore, but I had hoped that Claudia was also getting some or that he would be regretful. But nope and nope.
May 20, 2016
RATING: 3.5 Shaw and his badass girl Hearts!! :)
Read
August 21, 2018I actually love manwhores in my books,a manwhore in a city I can read, a manwhore in a large town I can probably read,a manwhore in a camp who has had quickies, twosomes, threesomes and all the somes available to him for 6 books while his now h teased him about it and was fully aware of what was going on? THAT I definitely cannot read!!!!!!! Claudia will have to see Shaw's past hookups every day for the rest of her life or they move whichever comes first. I've skimmed to get the relevant plot points but skipped every mention of them as a couple. If I actually rated this it'd be a 1 just because 0 isn't available on gr, so it's safe to say I'm not a fan of this one.
January 26, 2016
Hell Squad are battling the aliens who are trying to colonise Earth. The Gizzida are a fierce race of reptilian type creatures who always seem to be one step ahead of the surviving humans. Claudia Frost was captured by the Gizzida but her fellow members of Hell Squad are determined to find her. Shaw may have teased and irritated his kickass teammate but he is desperate to save her. As the resistance travel looking for a safe bolt hole the Squad keep searching but the Gizzida keep moving camps. A rescue mission is on the cards however and now all Shaw and his teammates have to worry about is what will they find when they finally catch up with Claudia?
You have to admire Claudia as she is one tough warrior woman. She's a fighter to the end but her captor is far more wily than other aliens we have previously met in this series. Shaw is a player I'm afraid and even though I didn't doubt his dedication to Claudia he wasn't my favourite hero in this series. What does work though is the overall story arc of survivors leaving their mountain home behind and trying to travel undetected by these monstrous aliens. The Gizzida are cunning, bloodthirsty and numerous. Luckily the humans are not about to give up!
The author has penned a series with an exhilarating fast paced plot. Vivid action scenes and varied characters. Now add in fiery romance and you begin to see that Ms Hackett has a lot invested in her post apocalyptic adventure series. These stories each feature a different couple but it's slowly building up and this time Berserkers were introduced and I personally can't wait to discover what's in store for them!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
You have to admire Claudia as she is one tough warrior woman. She's a fighter to the end but her captor is far more wily than other aliens we have previously met in this series. Shaw is a player I'm afraid and even though I didn't doubt his dedication to Claudia he wasn't my favourite hero in this series. What does work though is the overall story arc of survivors leaving their mountain home behind and trying to travel undetected by these monstrous aliens. The Gizzida are cunning, bloodthirsty and numerous. Luckily the humans are not about to give up!
The author has penned a series with an exhilarating fast paced plot. Vivid action scenes and varied characters. Now add in fiery romance and you begin to see that Ms Hackett has a lot invested in her post apocalyptic adventure series. These stories each feature a different couple but it's slowly building up and this time Berserkers were introduced and I personally can't wait to discover what's in store for them!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
March 4, 2016
With Shaw's story the aliens finally invade the base and kidnap Claudia.
Shaw is obsessed with getting her back while they are making their way to the Enclave.
I am not going to focus on the couple because it pretty much follows the same script like the others. My main reason to read the series is the plot itself: humans surviving the aliens and fighting back.
Because the book is so short the details that are overlooked take away my enjoyment of the story hence the low rating throughout the series.
I wanted to know more about Selena. The new alien thrown in the mix is interesting and has a connection with the plants and animals. She is barely mentioned and that in the context of base and convoy security.
I am still confused of the obsession that the alien "huntsman" developed towards Claudia. At times the aliens seemed to be lead by females and behave like a hive, now there is a male with a lot of free will and because there is no background to help build the story there's just confusion on my side.
The multitude of technicalities told but not developed add to the lack of story build.
I am still following the survivors to the enclave through Holmes.
Shaw is obsessed with getting her back while they are making their way to the Enclave.
I am not going to focus on the couple because it pretty much follows the same script like the others. My main reason to read the series is the plot itself: humans surviving the aliens and fighting back.
Because the book is so short the details that are overlooked take away my enjoyment of the story hence the low rating throughout the series.
I wanted to know more about Selena. The new alien thrown in the mix is interesting and has a connection with the plants and animals. She is barely mentioned and that in the context of base and convoy security.
I am still confused of the obsession that the alien "huntsman" developed towards Claudia. At times the aliens seemed to be lead by females and behave like a hive, now there is a male with a lot of free will and because there is no background to help build the story there's just confusion on my side.
The multitude of technicalities told but not developed add to the lack of story build.
I am still following the survivors to the enclave through Holmes.
February 13, 2016
Except for a new hero/heroine in each novel, the stories are pretty much all the same.
October 23, 2017
3/5 stars
Damn, I am flying through these books and they don't get any less addicting. I was dying to read this particular book, you could feel the chemistry between this particular couple all through the series so far, their constant bickering having been a hilarious highlight.
Claudia Frost is used to being the tough solider girl who shows no weakness and fights the gender norms, she's part of the toughest squad fighting against the invasion. She's secretly harboured feelings for her attractive, playboy squad mate but has refused to act on the feelings, afraid of getting hurt.
But when Claudia gets kidnapped by the enemy, Shaw Baird will stop at nothing to get her back.
I loved this couple, Claudia is one of the toughest female characters in this series and it was so interesting to get inside her head and understand her motives. My favourite thing about this series is that none of the females are damsels in distress, they're all in the thick of things, fighting for their lives.
This was another entertaining and addicting addition to the series, Shaw and Claudia were a hilarious couple of characters that had you on your toes, it wasn't sweet and adorable with this couple—which was refreshing to read about.
Damn, I am flying through these books and they don't get any less addicting. I was dying to read this particular book, you could feel the chemistry between this particular couple all through the series so far, their constant bickering having been a hilarious highlight.
Claudia Frost is used to being the tough solider girl who shows no weakness and fights the gender norms, she's part of the toughest squad fighting against the invasion. She's secretly harboured feelings for her attractive, playboy squad mate but has refused to act on the feelings, afraid of getting hurt.
But when Claudia gets kidnapped by the enemy, Shaw Baird will stop at nothing to get her back.
I loved this couple, Claudia is one of the toughest female characters in this series and it was so interesting to get inside her head and understand her motives. My favourite thing about this series is that none of the females are damsels in distress, they're all in the thick of things, fighting for their lives.
This was another entertaining and addicting addition to the series, Shaw and Claudia were a hilarious couple of characters that had you on your toes, it wasn't sweet and adorable with this couple—which was refreshing to read about.
June 17, 2018
3.5 stars.
Shaw and Claudia have been bickering since book 1 so we've been expecting their book for a while now. It makes sense that they only realized they were meant to be when they almost lost each other.
I think the most interesting discovery from this installment is Selena. I'm looking forward to knowing more about her.
Shaw and Claudia have been bickering since book 1 so we've been expecting their book for a while now. It makes sense that they only realized they were meant to be when they almost lost each other.
I think the most interesting discovery from this installment is Selena. I'm looking forward to knowing more about her.
April 29, 2021
A good read ♥
April 15, 2018
Spoilers ahead ...........I fell in love with the Tresure Hunter Security series and after reading the last book I was chasing after another author's series to read. When I started to read this, I loved it at the time, but when I started to suspect that Shaw and Claudia would become a couple, it did not work for me. So I went straight to read Shaw's book and honestly, I gave up reading this series. My Romantic Heart She does not like stories where the h has to witness all the sex relations of the H with OW and when I realized that this would have to happen in all the previous books until arriving at theirs, I don't like this even a little. I know it's fiction, but we do not stop putting ourselves in the places of some characters and for me, Shaw's and Claudia's book did not convince me. I was wondering as a woman (already with a painful past because of an ex-husband traitor, like the h), I have to meet daily with all the women that the guy had sex (and that are so many womans!!!!!!!!!!), hm-hm, it's not work for me. And the scene that she finds Shaw full of conversations and smiles and still allowing the other woman to touch him, even after knowing the insecurities and past of the h, and how his own past afet their relationship, unfortunately, did not leave a nice picture of what the future of this relationship would be. So I'm sorry Anna, I'll give yours books some time, and when I go back to reading some other series of the author, I hope, heartily, that she does not have any similar characters in her books :( (less)
November 20, 2019
I have read a lot of Anna Hackett's books, and I have really enjoyed them. Shaw was a disappointment. He screwed his way through the females on the base and Claudia was just fine with that. WTH? Every time she ran into a female she would know that he probably had sex with her. I especially hated the fact that he called her a coward for blaming him for what her ex did. Why the hell wouldn't she wonder, he was a manwhore, no other way to describe him. I wouldn't go near him. The first time she has sex with him he says he has a birth control shot and she says that she has one too. That's not going to stop STD'S. He's a walking, talking sexual disease. How many women has he had sex with, multiple times? I love Ms. Hackett's books, I have read almost all of them and loved every one. I will continue with this series and read others. One book out of so many won't change my mind. But, I am disappointed in this one, I truly disliked Shaw as a person, Claudia deserved so much better.
April 1, 2025
Hell Squad is giving hell to the raptors on their search to get Claudia back. Shaw is beside himself with worry and anger. He wants claudia back, and he is unleashing his anger on the raptors for taking her. The base is also on the move, slowly making their way to the Enclave.
Once Claudia is back, they all work hard to keep the survivors safe and on the move. But on raptor has his eyes on his prisoner that got away. And won't stop until he has her back.
I do love how bad ass Claudia is, and how bad ass shaw is too. I do feel like their relationship was a bit too suddenly on and okay. There was no build up or real growth to their relationship. All the other couples had challenges and growth. But they were just suddenly together. Especially didn't like Shaw was with the women on the base, and the scene where he was flirty with a woman and let her touch him and Claudia saw, but Claudia was the one who saw and she was like I gotta be the one to let go of my pain from being cheated on and badically be okay with watching him allow another woman to flirt with and touch him. I know in this world of loss and fear sex is viewed differently, like find the pleasure and connection when you can. But Shaw was a ladies man and Claudia didn't have any partners and it wasnt really fair. Just my thoughts on this relationship.
Once Claudia is back, they all work hard to keep the survivors safe and on the move. But on raptor has his eyes on his prisoner that got away. And won't stop until he has her back.
I do love how bad ass Claudia is, and how bad ass shaw is too. I do feel like their relationship was a bit too suddenly on and okay. There was no build up or real growth to their relationship. All the other couples had challenges and growth. But they were just suddenly together. Especially didn't like Shaw was with the women on the base, and the scene where he was flirty with a woman and let her touch him and Claudia saw, but Claudia was the one who saw and she was like I gotta be the one to let go of my pain from being cheated on and badically be okay with watching him allow another woman to flirt with and touch him. I know in this world of loss and fear sex is viewed differently, like find the pleasure and connection when you can. But Shaw was a ladies man and Claudia didn't have any partners and it wasnt really fair. Just my thoughts on this relationship.
July 24, 2017
I have SO been looking forward to this book! ❤️
5 " You better not go caveman on me, or else I'll kick your ass" - stars!
I love it when the main characters are bickering, and oh boy, does these two do that!
Shaw is the sniper of Hell Squad. A funny, outgoing, tall and handsome sniper, who basically everyone likes. ( brilliant personality!)
Claudia is somewhat different. She's tough, strong, badass, and an amazing fighter ( also from the Hell Squad), not the best with people, but she is loyal to a fault!
You have probably already figured out that their chemistry is amazing, right? Team members catching feelings for one another is always one hell of a story!
The Blue Mountain Base is on the run, since the raptors attacked their home. Hell Squad is torn because during the fight Claudia was taken. And guess who wants her back the most?
Yeah, I think you got the idea 💡 Now go and grab a copy of one of my favourite action-romance (sci-if) series so far bacause DAMN. This is good shit!
Will I recommend?: Let me put it this way. Do you like your books filled with action, romance AND hot alpha males? Is the answer is yes? Well, you know what to do. %hellsquad
5 " You better not go caveman on me, or else I'll kick your ass" - stars!
I love it when the main characters are bickering, and oh boy, does these two do that!
Shaw is the sniper of Hell Squad. A funny, outgoing, tall and handsome sniper, who basically everyone likes. ( brilliant personality!)
Claudia is somewhat different. She's tough, strong, badass, and an amazing fighter ( also from the Hell Squad), not the best with people, but she is loyal to a fault!
You have probably already figured out that their chemistry is amazing, right? Team members catching feelings for one another is always one hell of a story!
The Blue Mountain Base is on the run, since the raptors attacked their home. Hell Squad is torn because during the fight Claudia was taken. And guess who wants her back the most?
Yeah, I think you got the idea 💡 Now go and grab a copy of one of my favourite action-romance (sci-if) series so far bacause DAMN. This is good shit!
Will I recommend?: Let me put it this way. Do you like your books filled with action, romance AND hot alpha males? Is the answer is yes? Well, you know what to do. %hellsquad
August 12, 2018
Hoo-boy. Things are heating up for Hell Squad. They're on the run after their base was destroyed. One of their own has been captured. And the aliens just seem to keep getting smarter. Well, some of the aliens. Some of them are straight up foot soldiers, but others are showing an uncomfortable amount of canniness when it comes to tracking the humans they're trying to capture.
No worries, though. Hell Squad doesn't back down OR leave anyone behind. Which means Claudia's being rescued even if they have to burn down the world to do it. (For the record, it doesn't come to that. They just go in guns blazing. No actual world-burning took place.)
Given the push and pull that's been going on over several books between Claudia and Shaw, it's no surprise that he's one of the most driven to find her. The poor guy is run ragged while she's in captivity and he's DETERMINED to bring her back. And then show her that he's the guy for her.
Convincing her of that is almost more difficult than rescuing her in the first place. (Just kidding. Claudia's quick. She figures things out. Especially once THINGS HAPPEN, if you know what I mean.)
Speaking of things, THINGS ARE HAPPENING in this series. So many things. I honestly can't wait to see what they squad (or the general) runs into next!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
No worries, though. Hell Squad doesn't back down OR leave anyone behind. Which means Claudia's being rescued even if they have to burn down the world to do it. (For the record, it doesn't come to that. They just go in guns blazing. No actual world-burning took place.)
Given the push and pull that's been going on over several books between Claudia and Shaw, it's no surprise that he's one of the most driven to find her. The poor guy is run ragged while she's in captivity and he's DETERMINED to bring her back. And then show her that he's the guy for her.
Convincing her of that is almost more difficult than rescuing her in the first place. (Just kidding. Claudia's quick. She figures things out. Especially once THINGS HAPPEN, if you know what I mean.)
Speaking of things, THINGS ARE HAPPENING in this series. So many things. I honestly can't wait to see what they squad (or the general) runs into next!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 28, 2020
I was looking forward to this book for a while, as I knew this couple was headed towards collision. It was a solid read but didn’t end up being quite as good as I hoped it would be. The romances are starting to feel repetitive. I keep on reading for the world and sci-fi elements, but the world building needs some work. I think this book would have been better if it was longer and more developed. There was a lot here that could have use more time and growth, and I think that would have made the story even stronger. It just falls short of what it could be, I think because it’s so busy following a formula.
March 5, 2019
Series: Hell Squad #7
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Shaw Baird is a man on a mission. He is determined to find his teammate Claudia before she runs out of time. Claudia Frost is barely surviving but she knows her team is coming. The only thing going is thoughts of the sexy and annoying sniper Shaw. It takes extreme circumstances for these two to admit their feelings and take a chance on each other.
The beginning of this book was very emotional. Both Shaw and Claudia are clinging to their reunion to make it through the tough times they are facing. These two have been butting heads since the very beginning and now that the chance might be lost they are admitting the truth about their feelings for each other.
Claudia and Shaw are both amazing and tough characters with traumatic pasts that influence their actions. While Claudia is a strong, capable, and deadly woman she is also scared to let anyone close after her ex-husband cheated on her repeatedly. Shaw is an excellent sniper and soldier who loves the ladies. He never commits to anyone though because of the guilt of his sister’s death. These two struggle to overcome their past while working on their relationship but in the end they are stronger for it.
“You’re damned beautiful….You are. Strength, determination, courage. Damn, sometimes you intimidate me.”
This book also features more of the Berserkers and I cannot wait to start reading their stories. They are some crazy badass men. We are introduced to a new character named Selena in this book. I cannot wait to find out more about her and see who she will hook up with.
Trigger warnings: kidnapping; torture; death of sibling by parent (filicide) discussed; abusive father; miscarriage discussed;
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Shaw Baird is a man on a mission. He is determined to find his teammate Claudia before she runs out of time. Claudia Frost is barely surviving but she knows her team is coming. The only thing going is thoughts of the sexy and annoying sniper Shaw. It takes extreme circumstances for these two to admit their feelings and take a chance on each other.
The beginning of this book was very emotional. Both Shaw and Claudia are clinging to their reunion to make it through the tough times they are facing. These two have been butting heads since the very beginning and now that the chance might be lost they are admitting the truth about their feelings for each other.
Claudia and Shaw are both amazing and tough characters with traumatic pasts that influence their actions. While Claudia is a strong, capable, and deadly woman she is also scared to let anyone close after her ex-husband cheated on her repeatedly. Shaw is an excellent sniper and soldier who loves the ladies. He never commits to anyone though because of the guilt of his sister’s death. These two struggle to overcome their past while working on their relationship but in the end they are stronger for it.
“You’re damned beautiful….You are. Strength, determination, courage. Damn, sometimes you intimidate me.”
This book also features more of the Berserkers and I cannot wait to start reading their stories. They are some crazy badass men. We are introduced to a new character named Selena in this book. I cannot wait to find out more about her and see who she will hook up with.
Trigger warnings: kidnapping; torture; death of sibling by parent (filicide) discussed; abusive father; miscarriage discussed;
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
January 25, 2016
And Hell Squad returns with a big bang!
Claudia Frost has been taken by the Gizzida and her squad-mate Shaw is determined to get her back. In the process, the last single members of the Hell Squad learn what they really mean to each other while dealing with the aftermath of a devastating alien invasion.
One of the toughest and most kickass heroine I've ever had the pleasure to read about, Claudia's story is one that I've been waiting for. I've always found Claudia intriguing and in this book, Anna Hackett peels away all her layers to reveal a multi-faceted character (strong, determined, realistically practical) whom I can cheer for. There's so much to like about her and her indefatigable strength - despite all that she'd faced in her past - that Shaw, that sniper playboy with whom she's always had a more-than-friends relationship (ish) with, pales like a shallow man in comparison as he strives to keep up with her coolness. I could only wish he could have been a lot more than he'd ever been for her, given that the somewhat flaky explanation for his fast-and-loose behaviour with the ladies isn't convincing enough to sway me over when he suddenly pledges his loyalty only to Claudia despite never having done anything like that before.
But for now, be still, my girl-crush.
Together however, Shaw/Claudia is a pairing, like every other pairing before them, that's probably a sub-plot in the entire story arc that unfolds slowly but surely in a journey that goes from mountains to coastline. Yet I like the way Anna Hackett builds this post-apocalyptic world by focusing on pairings and thoroughly enjoyed especially the mini-interactions between Squad 9 and the Berserkers here, making me quite relieved that this whole epic tale is far from done.
Claudia Frost has been taken by the Gizzida and her squad-mate Shaw is determined to get her back. In the process, the last single members of the Hell Squad learn what they really mean to each other while dealing with the aftermath of a devastating alien invasion.
One of the toughest and most kickass heroine I've ever had the pleasure to read about, Claudia's story is one that I've been waiting for. I've always found Claudia intriguing and in this book, Anna Hackett peels away all her layers to reveal a multi-faceted character (strong, determined, realistically practical) whom I can cheer for. There's so much to like about her and her indefatigable strength - despite all that she'd faced in her past - that Shaw, that sniper playboy with whom she's always had a more-than-friends relationship (ish) with, pales like a shallow man in comparison as he strives to keep up with her coolness. I could only wish he could have been a lot more than he'd ever been for her, given that the somewhat flaky explanation for his fast-and-loose behaviour with the ladies isn't convincing enough to sway me over when he suddenly pledges his loyalty only to Claudia despite never having done anything like that before.
But for now, be still, my girl-crush.
Together however, Shaw/Claudia is a pairing, like every other pairing before them, that's probably a sub-plot in the entire story arc that unfolds slowly but surely in a journey that goes from mountains to coastline. Yet I like the way Anna Hackett builds this post-apocalyptic world by focusing on pairings and thoroughly enjoyed especially the mini-interactions between Squad 9 and the Berserkers here, making me quite relieved that this whole epic tale is far from done.
September 17, 2021
Finally Shaw and Claudia’s story. These two have been butting heads since the beginning of the series. Lots of snark, lots of quips, but also there when they need each other. In the last book, Claudia was taken by aliens leaving Shaw raging. It’s now a week later and she’s still missing. Shaw is a wreck.
The layers are peeled back - past with hurt, betrayal stand in their way. But while they try to stay away, once Claudia is back things are not the same. The tension is higher, their feelings coming to the forefront. Feelings their teammates had seen that they couldn’t acknowledge. There’s a sweetness to their relationship despite the joking. It’s good seeing the team all in loving relationships. Now it’s the General’s turn.
Action, battles with aliens, love, loyalty, survival- this series is what you want in a sci-fi romance.
Disclaimer: while I know the author personally, this doesn’t affect the star rating.
The layers are peeled back - past with hurt, betrayal stand in their way. But while they try to stay away, once Claudia is back things are not the same. The tension is higher, their feelings coming to the forefront. Feelings their teammates had seen that they couldn’t acknowledge. There’s a sweetness to their relationship despite the joking. It’s good seeing the team all in loving relationships. Now it’s the General’s turn.
Action, battles with aliens, love, loyalty, survival- this series is what you want in a sci-fi romance.
Disclaimer: while I know the author personally, this doesn’t affect the star rating.
March 22, 2021
This is the story, I liked least.
Claudia and Shaw just didn't click for me. He was the macho, who was having sex with most of the women at Blue Mountain Base and she was the tough female soldier with the bad past.
Alone, they are good characters, but I just can't picture them together. And I mean, it may be my prejudice, but I don't think a woman who was mistreated and abused by her ex-husband would pick a manwhore for her second chance at love; esp. if she had witnessed his manwhore behavior only days before...
Now, if the book would have been set over a longer time period and Shaw had gone through some character development - which would have been visible for Claudia...now, that would have made it a different story...and might probably have worked better. At least for me...
I had high hopes for their story, but I was disappointed. Unfortunately.
Claudia and Shaw just didn't click for me. He was the macho, who was having sex with most of the women at Blue Mountain Base and she was the tough female soldier with the bad past.
Alone, they are good characters, but I just can't picture them together. And I mean, it may be my prejudice, but I don't think a woman who was mistreated and abused by her ex-husband would pick a manwhore for her second chance at love; esp. if she had witnessed his manwhore behavior only days before...
Now, if the book would have been set over a longer time period and Shaw had gone through some character development - which would have been visible for Claudia...now, that would have made it a different story...and might probably have worked better. At least for me...
I had high hopes for their story, but I was disappointed. Unfortunately.
July 8, 2019
My all-time favorite Alien-Apocalypse couple!
January 28, 2016
4.5 * - rounded up. Wow... I really have been enjoying this series. The world building of the alien invasion is so unusual with the alien invasion and I love the resistance fighters. There is so much heart and fierce desire in this series. I am loving it.
November 11, 2022
MY RATING GUIDE: 4 Stars. SHAW is a fast moving, hope-filled dystopian novel with a lot of action, several Steamy scenes of intimacy and a HFN (dystopian)/HEA.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED THIS ONE A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars
SHAW, #7 -
North of Sydney, the Swift Wind Convoy, 18mos after the initial alien invasion and one week after NOAH, #6 ~
MMC Shaw Baird, an excellent sniper and former SAS soldier, is very devoted to his job and has always had a love for the ladies. FMC Claudia Frost is also a former SAS soldier. Back in the day, before the alien invasion, Claudia knew Shaw slightly. Mostly, she knew of his reputation to never focus on any one woman in particular. Claudia has always been a tough-as-nails soldier, kicking butt along with the very best, expecting and receiving the same respect as the men. She joked with her team mates, never dallied with them. Since the invasion and the deaths of multiple millions, Shaw and Claudia have been fighting from the same small Hell Squad unit. They now know each other very well - or so they believe. Until the enemy’s repeated attacks begin to open old wounds and long buried memories, forcing issues at a time when total concentration is paramount. Vulnerability is a weakness, or is it?
Comments ~
1) SHAW 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.
2) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading, great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work.
3) I would not recommend reading SHAW as a Standalone title without first reading at least the previous book, NOAH, #6. NOAH ends with (SHAW’s) FMC Claudia in a very precarious situation which continues in SHAW. Readers beginning with SHAW will lose the continuity of the books story line and the FMC’s history/dilemma. I actually prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
4) This series is recommended to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (see above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (see 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.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed intimacy scenes occur between the 2 MCs beginning around the mid point (3-4). I skim past them.
VIOLENCE - PG. Involves military and aliens. Think Godzilla or Aliens. Not particularly dark or graphic.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED THIS ONE A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars
SHAW, #7 -
North of Sydney, the Swift Wind Convoy, 18mos after the initial alien invasion and one week after NOAH, #6 ~
MMC Shaw Baird, an excellent sniper and former SAS soldier, is very devoted to his job and has always had a love for the ladies. FMC Claudia Frost is also a former SAS soldier. Back in the day, before the alien invasion, Claudia knew Shaw slightly. Mostly, she knew of his reputation to never focus on any one woman in particular. Claudia has always been a tough-as-nails soldier, kicking butt along with the very best, expecting and receiving the same respect as the men. She joked with her team mates, never dallied with them. Since the invasion and the deaths of multiple millions, Shaw and Claudia have been fighting from the same small Hell Squad unit. They now know each other very well - or so they believe. Until the enemy’s repeated attacks begin to open old wounds and long buried memories, forcing issues at a time when total concentration is paramount. Vulnerability is a weakness, or is it?
Comments ~
1) SHAW 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.
2) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading, great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work.
3) I would not recommend reading SHAW as a Standalone title without first reading at least the previous book, NOAH, #6. NOAH ends with (SHAW’s) FMC Claudia in a very precarious situation which continues in SHAW. Readers beginning with SHAW will lose the continuity of the books story line and the FMC’s history/dilemma. I actually prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
4) This series is recommended to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (see above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (see 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.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Detailed intimacy scenes occur between the 2 MCs beginning around the mid point (3-4). I skim past them.
VIOLENCE - PG. Involves military and aliens. Think Godzilla or Aliens. Not particularly dark or graphic.
April 2, 2025
These two try to out tough the other.
Shaw Baird Hell Squad sniper extraordinaire VS Hell Squads ice queen badass Claudia Frost. These two pick at each other constantly until Claudia was dragged off by the Gizzida a week ago, and Shaw is losing his mind. He knows the torture the aliens are known for…he has seen what happens to humans put in the regen tanks.
Claudia may be down, but she knows her team will come for her. The top Raptor, whom she calls the Huntsman, seems to have a thing for her. Weakened from lack of food and sleep, the Huntsman forces her to fight his soldiers in the fight ring, repeatedly. Then, while she’s knocked out, he heals her and does other stuff. But what? Claudia is finally rescued and is safe in Shaw’s arms. These two fight off their attraction for most of the story, but they are always there for each other. There is another prisoner in the cell with Claudia, and Hell Squad rescues her, too. Selena helped Claudia through her week as a tortured prisoner. Everyone is shocked when they discover that Selena is an alien who was stolen from her home planet. Claudia is the only one who trusts her.
The residents of the Blue Mountain Base are traveling in the “Swift Wind Convoy,” hiding themselves and their vehicles under the illusion screen created by tech genius Noah. The Blue Mountain Base survivors are making their way to the Enclave, their new home. It’s a slow, treacherous journey with the Gizzida hot on their heels, but how are the Gizzida right on their heels? How are they able to track the convoy?
Shaw is hovering over the seriously injured Claudia…their attraction is getting stronger and more open; nonetheless, Claudia fights it until these two combust with lust. They don’t want to admit it, but they have fallen in love. This is a great romance story with Shaw falling so hard. I love this action-packed story. I am rereading the entire Hell Squad series. On to book 11. Linda
Shaw Baird Hell Squad sniper extraordinaire VS Hell Squads ice queen badass Claudia Frost. These two pick at each other constantly until Claudia was dragged off by the Gizzida a week ago, and Shaw is losing his mind. He knows the torture the aliens are known for…he has seen what happens to humans put in the regen tanks.
Claudia may be down, but she knows her team will come for her. The top Raptor, whom she calls the Huntsman, seems to have a thing for her. Weakened from lack of food and sleep, the Huntsman forces her to fight his soldiers in the fight ring, repeatedly. Then, while she’s knocked out, he heals her and does other stuff. But what? Claudia is finally rescued and is safe in Shaw’s arms. These two fight off their attraction for most of the story, but they are always there for each other. There is another prisoner in the cell with Claudia, and Hell Squad rescues her, too. Selena helped Claudia through her week as a tortured prisoner. Everyone is shocked when they discover that Selena is an alien who was stolen from her home planet. Claudia is the only one who trusts her.
The residents of the Blue Mountain Base are traveling in the “Swift Wind Convoy,” hiding themselves and their vehicles under the illusion screen created by tech genius Noah. The Blue Mountain Base survivors are making their way to the Enclave, their new home. It’s a slow, treacherous journey with the Gizzida hot on their heels, but how are the Gizzida right on their heels? How are they able to track the convoy?
Shaw is hovering over the seriously injured Claudia…their attraction is getting stronger and more open; nonetheless, Claudia fights it until these two combust with lust. They don’t want to admit it, but they have fallen in love. This is a great romance story with Shaw falling so hard. I love this action-packed story. I am rereading the entire Hell Squad series. On to book 11. Linda
March 24, 2026
3.5 Stars
‘In the aftermath of a deadly alien invasion, a band of survivors fights on… Join Marcus Steele and the toughest commando team fighting for humanity’s survival—Hell Squad. Battle-hardened soldiers, men and women who never give up. Heroes will rise…when they have someone to live for.’
Shaw and Claudia
Shaw is the seventh book in the Hell Squad series by Anna Hackett. This an adrenaline-charged blend of post-apocalyptic action, sizzling romance, and gritty survival. Set in a world devastated by a brutal alien invasion, the series follows an elite commando team - Hell Squad - as they fight to protect humanity’s last strongholds while also navigating love, loss, and loyalty.
Each book focuses on a different member of the squad, giving us readers a fresh romance each time, while advancing the overarching war against the alien invaders.
If you enjoy military sci-fi with a strong romantic core, then Hell Squad delivers a thrilling ride from start to finish - equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming.
Happy Reading…
‘In the aftermath of a deadly alien invasion, a band of survivors fights on… Join Marcus Steele and the toughest commando team fighting for humanity’s survival—Hell Squad. Battle-hardened soldiers, men and women who never give up. Heroes will rise…when they have someone to live for.’
Shaw and Claudia
Shaw is the seventh book in the Hell Squad series by Anna Hackett. This an adrenaline-charged blend of post-apocalyptic action, sizzling romance, and gritty survival. Set in a world devastated by a brutal alien invasion, the series follows an elite commando team - Hell Squad - as they fight to protect humanity’s last strongholds while also navigating love, loss, and loyalty.
Each book focuses on a different member of the squad, giving us readers a fresh romance each time, while advancing the overarching war against the alien invaders.
If you enjoy military sci-fi with a strong romantic core, then Hell Squad delivers a thrilling ride from start to finish - equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming.
Happy Reading…
December 23, 2023
Sniper Shaw Baird hasn’t rested much since the raptors stole fellow soldier Claudia Frost from the base. The rest of Hell Squad was also invested but they recognized the signs and knew there was a different investment between them. The raptors question Claudia about the human’s hideout and actions before forcing her to fight them until her bones break, heal her with their technology to heal her and do it again. When the squad gets a valid lead, they rush to her rescue.
Claudia didn’t realize she was tethered to non-human Sabrina until the rescue but vows she’s also a Gizzida enemy. At base, Sabrina and Claudia are tested to ensure they aren’t spies or able to lead Gizzida to them. Meanwhile, Shaw and Claudia’s affection is surprising but clear. Gizzida leader, Claudia dubbed Huntsman, forces the humans to evacuate HQ then tracks and traps them. Huntsman surprisingly offers a degree of freedom as he covetously studies Claudia.
Rating: 4.25stars
Claudia didn’t realize she was tethered to non-human Sabrina until the rescue but vows she’s also a Gizzida enemy. At base, Sabrina and Claudia are tested to ensure they aren’t spies or able to lead Gizzida to them. Meanwhile, Shaw and Claudia’s affection is surprising but clear. Gizzida leader, Claudia dubbed Huntsman, forces the humans to evacuate HQ then tracks and traps them. Huntsman surprisingly offers a degree of freedom as he covetously studies Claudia.
Rating: 4.25stars
August 27, 2025
Good
Finally got to this book. Read the first book and wanted to get to Shaw and Claudia's story but had to read all the others because you really want to know what is happening and not just jump in the middle. At this point in the series, the author's cookie cutter style is obvious. If you can wade through that, there are some good parts with action and added twists to the series. Not a fan of every single person has the same problem to overcome. They all lost someone or a bad relationship and don't want to risk it again. Got it. Not sure about the books ahead but someone could be a thief or a famous movie star who has to prove themselves etc, etc. The plot twist in this book was easily figured out before the reveal but that was alright.
I enjoyed Shaw and Claudia's story. If you haven't started at the beginning you should. Not perfect but a good series.
Finally got to this book. Read the first book and wanted to get to Shaw and Claudia's story but had to read all the others because you really want to know what is happening and not just jump in the middle. At this point in the series, the author's cookie cutter style is obvious. If you can wade through that, there are some good parts with action and added twists to the series. Not a fan of every single person has the same problem to overcome. They all lost someone or a bad relationship and don't want to risk it again. Got it. Not sure about the books ahead but someone could be a thief or a famous movie star who has to prove themselves etc, etc. The plot twist in this book was easily figured out before the reveal but that was alright.
I enjoyed Shaw and Claudia's story. If you haven't started at the beginning you should. Not perfect but a good series.
October 23, 2019
Ooh!! So Worth the wait
I couldn't wait to see how the two 'badasses' were go I g to cope with their feelings when one Claudia Frost, is taken prisoner by the aliens. Her partner Shaw is beside himself with grief and fear that she is dead or badly broken. Written using dual narrative style, we see I to the military d of both these loveable yet hardened soldiers. Both regretting not being more open with their feelings towards each h other. Fortunately they do get an opportunity to see each other but the resourceful alien Huntsman, as Claudia calls him. He want her and will do anything to get her. This is all action while the survivors try to escape and find their next base - the Enclave. A fantastic read!!
I couldn't wait to see how the two 'badasses' were go I g to cope with their feelings when one Claudia Frost, is taken prisoner by the aliens. Her partner Shaw is beside himself with grief and fear that she is dead or badly broken. Written using dual narrative style, we see I to the military d of both these loveable yet hardened soldiers. Both regretting not being more open with their feelings towards each h other. Fortunately they do get an opportunity to see each other but the resourceful alien Huntsman, as Claudia calls him. He want her and will do anything to get her. This is all action while the survivors try to escape and find their next base - the Enclave. A fantastic read!!
November 13, 2017
I admit, i’ve been waiting for Shaw and Claudia’s story since the first book. They are just my sort of characters. A handsome, carefree lover of ladies soldier and his best friend kickass soldier. I loved their banter. I loved that they were already connected by friendship. I love a kickass heroine. It was all great. I guess my only growing gripe with this series is that the girls always seem to hold back on previous partners. I am looking forward to Tiffany’s book because at least she tries to have a good time.
January 13, 2019
I dislike Shaw, but the story was fantastic
I’ve read this story before, but had a really hard time starting it again. I seriously dislike players, man who res, men who can’t keep it in their pants. Though the story itself was great, I still dislike Shaw and would be uncomfortable knowing that most the women I talk to have effed my man. Besides my dislike of Shaw himself, the story was awesome. It had so many unexpected surprises, unique characters, and way more than enough action to keep me flipping the pages. Great story.
I’ve read this story before, but had a really hard time starting it again. I seriously dislike players, man who res, men who can’t keep it in their pants. Though the story itself was great, I still dislike Shaw and would be uncomfortable knowing that most the women I talk to have effed my man. Besides my dislike of Shaw himself, the story was awesome. It had so many unexpected surprises, unique characters, and way more than enough action to keep me flipping the pages. Great story.
October 7, 2022
Shaw...
Hell Squad book 7. Shaw and Claudia. I have waited for their story since book 1. They are friends. Squad mates and trust each other with their lives but not their hearts. They circle each other with some serious chemistry. It take Claudia being captured fot them to realize their feelings. But with the Base decimated, aliens on their heels and a rescue mission on hold its extremely hard to fall in love. This book is smexy, fast paced, all out action, hella twisty drama and angst.
Hell Squad book 7. Shaw and Claudia. I have waited for their story since book 1. They are friends. Squad mates and trust each other with their lives but not their hearts. They circle each other with some serious chemistry. It take Claudia being captured fot them to realize their feelings. But with the Base decimated, aliens on their heels and a rescue mission on hold its extremely hard to fall in love. This book is smexy, fast paced, all out action, hella twisty drama and angst.
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