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The Guardian #1
The Ultimatum
Alternate cover edition of ASIN: B01LLPKKH0.
Thief. Manipulator. Con artist. Call it what you will—Bianca St. Ives is the best in the business.
Growing up, Bianca St. Ives knew she was different from all her friends. Instead of playing hopscotch or combing her dolls' hair, she studied martial arts with sensei masters and dismantled explosives with special-ops retirees. Her father prepped her well to carry on the family business. Now a striking beauty with fierce skills, the prodigy has surpassed the master.
She's known as the Guardian. Running a multinational firm with her father, she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole—and she's damn good at it. She does things on her own terms. But her latest gig had a little hiccup—if you count two hundred million dollars and top secret government documents going missing as little. Her father also died on the mission. The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades, and they mean to use Bianca as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened...and set it right, before it's too late.
Thief. Manipulator. Con artist. Call it what you will—Bianca St. Ives is the best in the business.
Growing up, Bianca St. Ives knew she was different from all her friends. Instead of playing hopscotch or combing her dolls' hair, she studied martial arts with sensei masters and dismantled explosives with special-ops retirees. Her father prepped her well to carry on the family business. Now a striking beauty with fierce skills, the prodigy has surpassed the master.
She's known as the Guardian. Running a multinational firm with her father, she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole—and she's damn good at it. She does things on her own terms. But her latest gig had a little hiccup—if you count two hundred million dollars and top secret government documents going missing as little. Her father also died on the mission. The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades, and they mean to use Bianca as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened...and set it right, before it's too late.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2017
1201 people are currently reading
3861 people want to read
About the author
Karen Robards
126 books3,241 followersKaren Robards is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than fifty books and one novella. She has won multiple awards including six Affaire de Coeur Silver Pen Awards for favorite author.
Karen has been writing since she was very young, and was first published nationally in the December 1973 Reader's Digest. She sold her first romance novel, ISLAND FLAME, when she was 24. It was published by Leisure Books in 1981 and is still in print. After that, she dropped out of law school to pursue her writing career.
Karen was recently described by The Daily Mail as "one of the most reliable thriller....writers in the world."
Karen has been writing since she was very young, and was first published nationally in the December 1973 Reader's Digest. She sold her first romance novel, ISLAND FLAME, when she was 24. It was published by Leisure Books in 1981 and is still in print. After that, she dropped out of law school to pursue her writing career.
Karen was recently described by The Daily Mail as "one of the most reliable thriller....writers in the world."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 565 reviews
June 16, 2017
Karen Robards's latest book, The Ultimatum, which looks like the 1st book in The Guardian Series was one of the most excruciating books I have read by this author.
I had such high hopes after reading Chapter 1......the story started with a bang.......it certainly got my attention.........I couldn't wait to turn to the next chapter!!!
And what happened after turning the 1st page of Chapter 2?? Nothing!!! What follows are loooong and repetitive scenes after scenes. Nothing made any sense...not the characters...not the story......
I am not sure what the plot was suppose to be.........okay, the mc, heroine, Bianca St Ives, is pretty awesome..in the beginning...but how many times did I have to be told what she has hidden in her garter!!!! Is this a romantic suspense...well, romance...was there any...maybe I missed it...suspense.......think I missed that too!!!! Thriller...okay, lots of bad guys, killers and kidnappers, etc etc........oh man.........even the cliff-hanger at the very end of the book didn't make me want to continue the story, which I presume is book #2........
So, final thoughts about this story!!!!!Let the face tell you what they are....
I had such high hopes after reading Chapter 1......the story started with a bang.......it certainly got my attention.........I couldn't wait to turn to the next chapter!!!
And what happened after turning the 1st page of Chapter 2?? Nothing!!! What follows are loooong and repetitive scenes after scenes. Nothing made any sense...not the characters...not the story......
By page 200.......the plot just "plodded" along!!! I was still not sure where the story was going........
I am not sure what the plot was suppose to be.........okay, the mc, heroine, Bianca St Ives, is pretty awesome..in the beginning...but how many times did I have to be told what she has hidden in her garter!!!! Is this a romantic suspense...well, romance...was there any...maybe I missed it...suspense.......think I missed that too!!!! Thriller...okay, lots of bad guys, killers and kidnappers, etc etc........oh man.........even the cliff-hanger at the very end of the book didn't make me want to continue the story, which I presume is book #2........
So, final thoughts about this story!!!!!Let the face tell you what they are....
Oh yes, why the 1,5 stars???? Because the only character I liked was Bianca St Ives!!!!
July 25, 2017
Wow?! And not in a good way. 1 1/2 stars rounded down because it was such a huge disappointment.
The first chapter in this book was awesome and I thought this was going to be the start of a good series. And then it moved into a ridiculously long (was it 100 pages?) of escaping out of a building, hitting a 1980's style hot kiss in the bathroom between strangers (way too new writer cliche from a writer who should know better) and then a whole lot of tell not show.
I skim read the majority of the book being bored the whole way.
And then at the end we have another ridiculous escape ending on a cliffhanger.
Really? This did have a lot of potential, but it was nothing but 3 escape scenes with a whole lot of filler in between. This is what happens when you try to write a serial versus a book. So I repeat, this did not feel like a book. This was in no way a complete story. This was like a teaser with filler. If you condensed it down to what would be written in a well edited fast paced novel, you would have about 5 chapters worth saving. And then of course, you would need to write the rest of the book.
I may check the next book out from the library, but no way would I pay money for this. If this is what Karen Robards is going to be putting out, I may need to cross her off my list of authors I follow.
The first chapter in this book was awesome and I thought this was going to be the start of a good series. And then it moved into a ridiculously long (was it 100 pages?) of escaping out of a building, hitting a 1980's style hot kiss in the bathroom between strangers (way too new writer cliche from a writer who should know better) and then a whole lot of tell not show.
I skim read the majority of the book being bored the whole way.
And then at the end we have another ridiculous escape ending on a cliffhanger.
Really? This did have a lot of potential, but it was nothing but 3 escape scenes with a whole lot of filler in between. This is what happens when you try to write a serial versus a book. So I repeat, this did not feel like a book. This was in no way a complete story. This was like a teaser with filler. If you condensed it down to what would be written in a well edited fast paced novel, you would have about 5 chapters worth saving. And then of course, you would need to write the rest of the book.
I may check the next book out from the library, but no way would I pay money for this. If this is what Karen Robards is going to be putting out, I may need to cross her off my list of authors I follow.
August 3, 2021
Bianca St. Ives is a master thief, manipulator, and all around bad ass woman. She works for her notorious criminal father (who has many alias names) all of which Bianca doesn't even know about. Her past is a jaded mystery, which slowly unfolds as the novel progresses.
This is the 1st in a series of books by Robards, called "The Guardian."
The story was a slow burn for me initially, but got so much better as storyline picked-up midway through. It has a sort of "Hanna" feel to it, which I love.
I listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Julia Whelan, who always makes books more enjoyable. 😊❤ The ending left me wanting more of "The Guardian" adventures, so I'm definitely checking out the second installment. 👍👍
This is the 1st in a series of books by Robards, called "The Guardian."
The story was a slow burn for me initially, but got so much better as storyline picked-up midway through. It has a sort of "Hanna" feel to it, which I love.
I listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Julia Whelan, who always makes books more enjoyable. 😊❤ The ending left me wanting more of "The Guardian" adventures, so I'm definitely checking out the second installment. 👍👍
July 16, 2017
4.5 "Super Soldier Heroine" Stars for the story and 5 stars for the narration.
What an engaging listen! I absolutely loved the suspense and powerful, super talented heroine who can give most superheroes a run for their money (think of her as a feminine version of MacGyver--the late 1980s and early 1990s hit TV show--or Sidney Bristow from the 2000s hit TV show, Alias). Amazingly, as many books as I have read or listened to by Ms. Robards, she never ceases to surprise me with her creativity and ability to pen completely different stories with no mold.
If you love suspense this is a must listen. However, as Ms. Robards is known for her romantic suspense titles, I must caution listeners that this is not a traditional romantic suspense title. While there are threads of romantic elements weaved in--it seems like those threads are primarily intended for future installments--as no real romance occurs in this book.
Bianca St. Ives, whose nickname is the "Guardian", has never lived a conventional life. As a small child she was taught what can best be described as spy skills rather be allowed to play normal children's games. As an adult she, along with her father, and a group of others run an organization where they help recover money and priceless objects from thieves. The more complicated and dangerous an operation the better.
On one such mission, however, Bianca's life is turned upside down when she believes her father is killed by an explosive. Unfortunately, however, the US government is convinced this is another one of her father's tricks and they are blackmailing Bianca to determine his whereabouts. On this fateful mission Bianca also meets an agent who she shares an intimate moment with before she turns it around to her advantage. Nonetheless there is the beginnings of something more there and their subsequent meetings are equally charged--however, the agent is also under the impression that her father is still alive, and wants her cooperation to turn him in.
What will Bianca do? Just what is the truth?
Julia Whelan delivers a marvelous narration. Her voice is perfectly suited to bring the calculated and unshakable Bianca to life. Moreover, Ms. Whelan is able to deliver equally believable male characters by deepening her voice. In fact, she gives each character their own unique sound--with older characters sounding older and even being able to deliver a convincing young girls voice. She also produces genuine American and English accents and shifts back and forth seamlessly between the two.
I also really enjoyed Ms. Whelan's ability to pace her delivery for optimal enjoyment. Adding an edge of danger to the suspense scenes, and generally timing her delivery so that the listener can just sit back and enjoy the story.
All in all, suspense lovers will be both intrigued and entertained by The Ultimatum. Please note though that this book ends in a slight cliffhanger, so you will definitely want to pick up book 2, The Moscow Deception), which will continue Bianca's story and is scheduled to be released in 2018.
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
What an engaging listen! I absolutely loved the suspense and powerful, super talented heroine who can give most superheroes a run for their money (think of her as a feminine version of MacGyver--the late 1980s and early 1990s hit TV show--or Sidney Bristow from the 2000s hit TV show, Alias). Amazingly, as many books as I have read or listened to by Ms. Robards, she never ceases to surprise me with her creativity and ability to pen completely different stories with no mold.
If you love suspense this is a must listen. However, as Ms. Robards is known for her romantic suspense titles, I must caution listeners that this is not a traditional romantic suspense title. While there are threads of romantic elements weaved in--it seems like those threads are primarily intended for future installments--as no real romance occurs in this book.
Bianca St. Ives, whose nickname is the "Guardian", has never lived a conventional life. As a small child she was taught what can best be described as spy skills rather be allowed to play normal children's games. As an adult she, along with her father, and a group of others run an organization where they help recover money and priceless objects from thieves. The more complicated and dangerous an operation the better.
On one such mission, however, Bianca's life is turned upside down when she believes her father is killed by an explosive. Unfortunately, however, the US government is convinced this is another one of her father's tricks and they are blackmailing Bianca to determine his whereabouts. On this fateful mission Bianca also meets an agent who she shares an intimate moment with before she turns it around to her advantage. Nonetheless there is the beginnings of something more there and their subsequent meetings are equally charged--however, the agent is also under the impression that her father is still alive, and wants her cooperation to turn him in.
What will Bianca do? Just what is the truth?
Julia Whelan delivers a marvelous narration. Her voice is perfectly suited to bring the calculated and unshakable Bianca to life. Moreover, Ms. Whelan is able to deliver equally believable male characters by deepening her voice. In fact, she gives each character their own unique sound--with older characters sounding older and even being able to deliver a convincing young girls voice. She also produces genuine American and English accents and shifts back and forth seamlessly between the two.
I also really enjoyed Ms. Whelan's ability to pace her delivery for optimal enjoyment. Adding an edge of danger to the suspense scenes, and generally timing her delivery so that the listener can just sit back and enjoy the story.
All in all, suspense lovers will be both intrigued and entertained by The Ultimatum. Please note though that this book ends in a slight cliffhanger, so you will definitely want to pick up book 2, The Moscow Deception), which will continue Bianca's story and is scheduled to be released in 2018.
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
November 24, 2022
Romantic Suspense > Contemporary > Spies & Politics > Conspiracies
Series: The Guardian, Book 1
Publication Date : June 13, 2017
Bianca St Ives, discovers the safe she has broken into is empty. Realizing they have been set up to take the blame, the team has to take off before they are captured. However things won't go as easy as expected. Lots of action will follow...
I really enjoyed this Jane Bond type story with a strong female lead who can take care of herself. There were many twists and turns and a little romance. My only complaint is that the first escape was written too long and slow (editor should have done better job!) but after that the story totally captured me. I couldn't put the book down. The ending was well done and had me waiting for more because I liked the characters and idea of this series. Very nice surprise by Karen Robards.
Series: The Guardian, Book 1
Publication Date : June 13, 2017
Bianca St Ives, discovers the safe she has broken into is empty. Realizing they have been set up to take the blame, the team has to take off before they are captured. However things won't go as easy as expected. Lots of action will follow...
I really enjoyed this Jane Bond type story with a strong female lead who can take care of herself. There were many twists and turns and a little romance. My only complaint is that the first escape was written too long and slow (editor should have done better job!) but after that the story totally captured me. I couldn't put the book down. The ending was well done and had me waiting for more because I liked the characters and idea of this series. Very nice surprise by Karen Robards.
June 25, 2017
5 enthusiastic stars! This is Karen Robards at her finest, with action, intrigue, and romance combined into one kick-ass story that grabs you from the beginning and doesn't let go until the final paragraph. Warning to some readers: This is the first book in a series, and although there is a satisfying ending, it's also meant to lead into more books. If I'd had the next book, I'd have started reading it the moment I finished this one. It's just that good.
July 24, 2017
I felt really frightened reading this novel. In a small, one story house on the shore of Lake Michigan. On a cold October night a man was there to kill everyone who lived in the house. Mother Issa was waiting for husband to come home and four-year-old Beth was excited that daddy was coming home. With hearing foot steps on the gravel, Issa thought her husband had returned home. But then as she couldn’t see no car she then realises that someone is in the house. Issa hides Beth in a basement cabinet. The outcome of this story is so utterly unexpected that it caught me completely off guard. The man set fire to their house and then blew Thayer’s head off when he got out of his car. The man’s mission had been completed he had killed everyone who had lived in the house.
June 23, 2017
I was wondering if I would make it through this new book by KR. It was really slow for me at the beginning. The story is told mostly from the h's point of view. There is not much dialogue between characters. As I got to the halfway mark I started enjoying it. This was book #1 in her new series, so the ending leaves you hanging. I look forward to reading the next one.
May 12, 2019
Song for summary: Love Lies by Khalid & Normani
An explosive read! The characters are adept, badass, calculating, deceiving, and lethal; while the plot is an electrifying thrill ride from start to finish. With covert operatives, elaborate disguises, intricate schemes, and secret identities; The Ultimatum is a fast-paced, action packed novel that gives us a look into the cunning and dangerous world of elite thieves. As the stakes climb higher and the betrayals run deeper, a young, world-class manipulator is about to learn that sometimes blood isn't thicker than water.
An explosive read! The characters are adept, badass, calculating, deceiving, and lethal; while the plot is an electrifying thrill ride from start to finish. With covert operatives, elaborate disguises, intricate schemes, and secret identities; The Ultimatum is a fast-paced, action packed novel that gives us a look into the cunning and dangerous world of elite thieves. As the stakes climb higher and the betrayals run deeper, a young, world-class manipulator is about to learn that sometimes blood isn't thicker than water.
June 30, 2017
The Ultimatum is the first book in The Guardian series which promises to be a good one. Bianca is a thief who works with her father to pull off very elaborate cons and steal valuable items. Near the beginning of the book, Bianca's father is killed in the middle of a job, so Bianca opens a security business in Savannah, Georgia and tries to live a somewhat normal life. It isn't long though, before her past comes back to haunt her. Bianca has left open several avenues of communication in the faint hope that her father is still alive. One of them has been breached by someone offering him a job. Bianca pulls the job in hopes of finding her father, but in the process, finds out more about herself and her father than she had planned. She also has several encounters with an attractive but mysterious stranger that keeps popping up in her business and making it tough for her to forget about him.
By the end of the book, I enjoyed the story very much and am looking forward to the next installment of the series. My only complaint was that so much time was spent at the beginning of the book detailing the job in which Bianca's father died, that very little time was left for what turned out to be the meat of the story. As a result, a lot of the details and character development were left unexplored. I'm hoping for more in the next book in the series. Overall, a very good beginning to what could be a very intriguing series.
By the end of the book, I enjoyed the story very much and am looking forward to the next installment of the series. My only complaint was that so much time was spent at the beginning of the book detailing the job in which Bianca's father died, that very little time was left for what turned out to be the meat of the story. As a result, a lot of the details and character development were left unexplored. I'm hoping for more in the next book in the series. Overall, a very good beginning to what could be a very intriguing series.
January 17, 2018
Eh, taisni vai neērti atzīties, ka esmu šo izlasījusi godīgi līdz galam:) Vispār jau sižets un galvenā varone nebija tik slikti, kaitināja tas, ka visai nedaudzie notikumi izstiepti gandrīz 400 lpp garumā. Ideāli satilptu 100 lpp - tad noteikti būtu par * vairāk. Savu vienu zvaigznīti ieliku par beigu risinājumu - jā, mazliet pārsteigumu sagādāja (loģikas gan nekādas, bet nevar jau visu gribēt)!! Mans ieteikums - ja nu jūsu rokās nonāk šī grāmata, līdz apm 340 lpp var lasīt pa diagonāli un pēdējās 50 lapas izlasīt kārtīgi. Nekas nebūs zaudēts:)
August 31, 2017
The 1st chapter is 4 star quality. The rest of the story just slowly lost my attention and interest. Simple plot, solid action and just predictable twists. The main character lost appeal as the story progressed. When she found out things about her past or her family ( I didnt really fell confident in her decision making skills or intelligence as a character). This one just didnt do it for me.
August 27, 2018
First in The Guardian action thriller series and revolving around Bianca St Ives, a thief, con artist, and respected security consultant in Savannah, Georgia.
My Take
Lord, talk about IN-TENSE. Robards will keep you flipping these pages…and you may want to be sure to have The Moscow Deception on hand before you finish The Ultimatum. I almost wanted to scream when I discovered my library didn't have it as an eBook!
The details in here about thievery, misdirection, planning on the fly, the fun gadgets, the extent of the planning…everything is so well done. In fact, hmmm, maybe that's another reason I was flipping those pages so quickly.
It's all about being on the outside, looking in. Never being a part of "normal" life, which we learn from Bianca's perspective in single third person point-of-view. We know she's a strong woman, but with this POV, we also see how rattled she, as events unroll. Not that Bianca lets that stop her. Dang, if I could think one-fourth as well as she does on the fly...well...
We learn more about Bianca's dad from her memories and from those hunting him than from him. I'll be curious to know what he does for her in The Moscow Deception , that's for sure. Especially after that surprise Bianca came home to. That Colin certainly has me intrigued, as he seems much too interested in Bianca for an operator like himself who's tangled up with those people. That'll be another curiosity I need to satisfy. Doc and Hay don't do much for me. Yet. We'll see. But Evie. Now Evie I like a lot. She's determined to stand up for herself no matter how nasty her family is. And good for her! Thinking Evie should accept Fourth straying once in awhile, like a good wife. I don't think so.
The Story
It's only now with the collapse of the heist, the death of most of her team, that twenty-some-year-old memories begin to rise up in Bianca's brain.
The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead, and they'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades, and they mean to use his family as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened…and set it right, before it's too late.
The Characters
The incredibly skilled and cool Bianca St Ives, with her degree in English literature from Sarah Lawrence, is Jennifer Ashley, art expert, on the Bahrain job.
Guardian Consulting is…
…Bianca's real-life cover as a security consultant. The five-months pregnant Evangeline "Evie" Talmadge is a childhood friend from Bianca's days at Le Rosey, a boarding school in the Swiss Alps, who needed a job when Fourth, her about-to-be-ex-husband, a.k.a., the philandering William Wentworth Thornton IV, drained her accounts and canceled her credit cards. (He's been sleeping with Drew Healey's daughter, Annabeth.) Rosalie is Evie's mother. Haywood "Hay" Long is Bianca's second-in-command and a childhood friend of both Evie's and Bianca's. Latts and Harper work under Hay. Doc is now head of cyber security.
Gordon "Kaz" Kazmarek is the owner and CEO of a worldwide megachain of mall-based Gordon's Jewelry Stores. Dynex, Inc is another important client. Simpsonville drops off money at payday loan stores. Claybourne Realty needs security for their agents holding open houses.
Richard St Ives, a.k.a., Traveler, is her father, the head of their team, the operation's mastermind known as Kenneth Rapp. He's also a master-thief, a legend, and on every major most-wanted list in the world. His other, newer, family includes seven-year-old Marin and his wife, Margery Humphries, who know him as Edward Humphries. Bianca's mother had been, supposedly, Ann Johnson St Ives.
The rest of the team includes Miles Davis "Doc" Zeigler, a.k.a., Terry Brown, a computer genius. Thomas Findley is a forger; Nate Grangier is muscle.
The Alphabets and Assorted Law Enforcement
Laurent Durand is with Interpol and keen on capturing St Ives. Working with Durand, Colin Rogan, a private contractor and former MI6, has many aliases for all sorts of reasons.
John Kemp is the deputy head of covert operations for the CIA.
C is the head of MI6 and sent Timothy Cowles-Parker, a senior MI6 officer, to the meeting.
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is…
…under the DoD umbrella. Alexander Groton, who married into money, is its recently retired head, and still with his fingers in a lot of pies.
Manama, Bahrain
It's a fab party being held by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa at the palace. "King Kong" is His Highness' head of security. "Mickey" is a tall, dark, and handsome guest who can kiss. "Sylvia" sure thinks so. Brigadier General Hamad bin Squer Al Amiri of the Bahraini Royal Guard knew of the plan. Samira is support staff at the meeting.
Theft of a prototype weapons defense
Justin Lee, a.k.a., Austin Hunt, went all Mission Impossible. Walt Sturgeon is the CEO of Allied Industries in San Jose, California. He owns the Conquistador , a mega-yacht. Gemma is Walt's daughter and engaged to be married to Greg. "Cara Levine" needs an invite to the party. Hagan Brothers is Allied's preferred plumber. Brenda Smolski is a a master plumber.
Little Extras About Bianca
Bianca's home is…
…a condo she bought while it was under construction. So handy for those little extras. Angela Pack is the live-in super. Her sons include Sage (17), Trevor (15), and Quincy (11), who has a dire emergency. Shawn Torres, a.k.a., "Snake", is a bully who probably won't be bothering Quincy any more.
Bianca also owns Dance Dreams Ballet School which she leases to Lori Huddleston and Kathleen Groves.
SiuSiu Tseng owns a busy tailor shop in Macau with a nice sideline in thief couture. Tony Bennett is singing at the party. Susan Clemons is Hay's now-ex-girlfriend. Tod Schuster is a successful stockbroker who just didn't do it for Bianca. Nor did Gabriel Thomas or Ben Moss. Les Harding was simply a mistake. Grace Cappy may be Hay's fix-up. A Red Notice is an international wanted-persons alert.
Twenty-two years ago
Beth McAlister is four years old and snuggled up with her mother, Anissa "Issa" Jones. Mousie is her stuffed kitten. The Shadow is what hunts them. Mason Thayer is her father. He's also ex-CIA, formerly on the Cerberus Project, a top secret program with its team of government-sanctioned assassins. And dead. A Sarah, Elizabeth, and Sean McAlister were ruled a murder-suicide in Ozaukee County.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a foggy grayed-out yellow-green that tapers into a deep purple at the bottom with Westminster Palace in the background. It's Bianca in a knee-length coat walking down the pavement, almost a silhouette of herself in the center with the author's name in an embossed and black-outlined white centered across her. Below that is the title in an embossed and black-outlined red.
The title is awash in 'em, but only The Ultimatum really counts.
My Take
Lord, talk about IN-TENSE. Robards will keep you flipping these pages…and you may want to be sure to have The Moscow Deception on hand before you finish The Ultimatum. I almost wanted to scream when I discovered my library didn't have it as an eBook!
The details in here about thievery, misdirection, planning on the fly, the fun gadgets, the extent of the planning…everything is so well done. In fact, hmmm, maybe that's another reason I was flipping those pages so quickly.
It's all about being on the outside, looking in. Never being a part of "normal" life, which we learn from Bianca's perspective in single third person point-of-view. We know she's a strong woman, but with this POV, we also see how rattled she, as events unroll. Not that Bianca lets that stop her. Dang, if I could think one-fourth as well as she does on the fly...well...
We learn more about Bianca's dad from her memories and from those hunting him than from him. I'll be curious to know what he does for her in The Moscow Deception , that's for sure. Especially after that surprise Bianca came home to. That Colin certainly has me intrigued, as he seems much too interested in Bianca for an operator like himself who's tangled up with those people. That'll be another curiosity I need to satisfy. Doc and Hay don't do much for me. Yet. We'll see. But Evie. Now Evie I like a lot. She's determined to stand up for herself no matter how nasty her family is. And good for her! Thinking Evie should accept Fourth straying once in awhile, like a good wife. I don't think so.
The Story
It's only now with the collapse of the heist, the death of most of her team, that twenty-some-year-old memories begin to rise up in Bianca's brain.
The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead, and they'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades, and they mean to use his family as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened…and set it right, before it's too late.
The Characters
The incredibly skilled and cool Bianca St Ives, with her degree in English literature from Sarah Lawrence, is Jennifer Ashley, art expert, on the Bahrain job.
Guardian Consulting is…
…Bianca's real-life cover as a security consultant. The five-months pregnant Evangeline "Evie" Talmadge is a childhood friend from Bianca's days at Le Rosey, a boarding school in the Swiss Alps, who needed a job when Fourth, her about-to-be-ex-husband, a.k.a., the philandering William Wentworth Thornton IV, drained her accounts and canceled her credit cards. (He's been sleeping with Drew Healey's daughter, Annabeth.) Rosalie is Evie's mother. Haywood "Hay" Long is Bianca's second-in-command and a childhood friend of both Evie's and Bianca's. Latts and Harper work under Hay. Doc is now head of cyber security.
Gordon "Kaz" Kazmarek is the owner and CEO of a worldwide megachain of mall-based Gordon's Jewelry Stores. Dynex, Inc is another important client. Simpsonville drops off money at payday loan stores. Claybourne Realty needs security for their agents holding open houses.
Richard St Ives, a.k.a., Traveler, is her father, the head of their team, the operation's mastermind known as Kenneth Rapp. He's also a master-thief, a legend, and on every major most-wanted list in the world. His other, newer, family includes seven-year-old Marin and his wife, Margery Humphries, who know him as Edward Humphries. Bianca's mother had been, supposedly, Ann Johnson St Ives.
The rest of the team includes Miles Davis "Doc" Zeigler, a.k.a., Terry Brown, a computer genius. Thomas Findley is a forger; Nate Grangier is muscle.
The Alphabets and Assorted Law Enforcement
Laurent Durand is with Interpol and keen on capturing St Ives. Working with Durand, Colin Rogan, a private contractor and former MI6, has many aliases for all sorts of reasons.
John Kemp is the deputy head of covert operations for the CIA.
C is the head of MI6 and sent Timothy Cowles-Parker, a senior MI6 officer, to the meeting.
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is…
…under the DoD umbrella. Alexander Groton, who married into money, is its recently retired head, and still with his fingers in a lot of pies.
Manama, Bahrain
It's a fab party being held by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa at the palace. "King Kong" is His Highness' head of security. "Mickey" is a tall, dark, and handsome guest who can kiss. "Sylvia" sure thinks so. Brigadier General Hamad bin Squer Al Amiri of the Bahraini Royal Guard knew of the plan. Samira is support staff at the meeting.
Theft of a prototype weapons defense
Justin Lee, a.k.a., Austin Hunt, went all Mission Impossible. Walt Sturgeon is the CEO of Allied Industries in San Jose, California. He owns the Conquistador , a mega-yacht. Gemma is Walt's daughter and engaged to be married to Greg. "Cara Levine" needs an invite to the party. Hagan Brothers is Allied's preferred plumber. Brenda Smolski is a a master plumber.
Little Extras About Bianca
Bianca's home is…
…a condo she bought while it was under construction. So handy for those little extras. Angela Pack is the live-in super. Her sons include Sage (17), Trevor (15), and Quincy (11), who has a dire emergency. Shawn Torres, a.k.a., "Snake", is a bully who probably won't be bothering Quincy any more.
Bianca also owns Dance Dreams Ballet School which she leases to Lori Huddleston and Kathleen Groves.
SiuSiu Tseng owns a busy tailor shop in Macau with a nice sideline in thief couture. Tony Bennett is singing at the party. Susan Clemons is Hay's now-ex-girlfriend. Tod Schuster is a successful stockbroker who just didn't do it for Bianca. Nor did Gabriel Thomas or Ben Moss. Les Harding was simply a mistake. Grace Cappy may be Hay's fix-up. A Red Notice is an international wanted-persons alert.
Twenty-two years ago
Beth McAlister is four years old and snuggled up with her mother, Anissa "Issa" Jones. Mousie is her stuffed kitten. The Shadow is what hunts them. Mason Thayer is her father. He's also ex-CIA, formerly on the Cerberus Project, a top secret program with its team of government-sanctioned assassins. And dead. A Sarah, Elizabeth, and Sean McAlister were ruled a murder-suicide in Ozaukee County.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a foggy grayed-out yellow-green that tapers into a deep purple at the bottom with Westminster Palace in the background. It's Bianca in a knee-length coat walking down the pavement, almost a silhouette of herself in the center with the author's name in an embossed and black-outlined white centered across her. Below that is the title in an embossed and black-outlined red.
The title is awash in 'em, but only The Ultimatum really counts.
June 5, 2017
In a small, one story house on the shore of Lake Michigan. On a cold October night a man was there to kill everyone who lived in the house. Mother Issa was waiting for husband to come home and four-year-old Beth was excited that daddy was coming home.
With hearing foot steps on the gravel, Issa thought her husband had returned home. But then as she couldn't see no car she then realises that someone is in the house. Issa hides Beth in a basement cabinet.
The out come of this story is so utterly unexpected that it caught me completely off guard. The man set fire to their house and then blew Thayer's head off when he got out of his car. The man's mission had been completed he had killed everyone who had lived in the house.
Bianca St. Ives is smart, talented and beautiful. Shes's also a high-end thief, a master manipulator, a card shark and a genius of disguise.
A femme female Robin Hood running a multinational firm with her father, she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole and giving it back to those who should rightfully have it. Her father has prepared her well to carry on the family business, and now the prodigy has surpassed the master.
But her latest mission didn't go to plan - millions of dollars and top secret government documents went missing, and her father was supposedly killed. But not everyone believes in his death, including US government. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives - a high - value target who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world - even if it means using Bianca as bait.
With only a criminal backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened and set it right, before it's too late.
With hearing foot steps on the gravel, Issa thought her husband had returned home. But then as she couldn't see no car she then realises that someone is in the house. Issa hides Beth in a basement cabinet.
The out come of this story is so utterly unexpected that it caught me completely off guard. The man set fire to their house and then blew Thayer's head off when he got out of his car. The man's mission had been completed he had killed everyone who had lived in the house.
Bianca St. Ives is smart, talented and beautiful. Shes's also a high-end thief, a master manipulator, a card shark and a genius of disguise.
A femme female Robin Hood running a multinational firm with her father, she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole and giving it back to those who should rightfully have it. Her father has prepared her well to carry on the family business, and now the prodigy has surpassed the master.
But her latest mission didn't go to plan - millions of dollars and top secret government documents went missing, and her father was supposedly killed. But not everyone believes in his death, including US government. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives - a high - value target who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world - even if it means using Bianca as bait.
With only a criminal backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened and set it right, before it's too late.
June 12, 2018
Good start to a new series by Robards. Great characters, an interesting storyline, and lots of action make this one a winner!
June 25, 2017
I am going to make a lot of Robards fans mad, but it is what it is, and what it is , is a terrible book! Chapter 1 really grabbed me and I was thrilled to get into the rest of the book, Chapter 2 was so boring and long I am thinking what happened after the first chapter?! This book is so far fetched , so unbelievable, so not in Robards wheelhouse, why oh why did she think she could go some place that only the pros can write about without being so unreal and boring? I really had to struggle through this and most of the time it was such bad writing that I skimmed the pages, when I was reaching the end I thought ok now she's back to writing like the first chapter, but NO, it too was so far fetched that I am really disappointed in Robards. I will not be reading anymore in this new series she has started, it was like watching a really bad movie. Robards needs to stop this series right here. Only my opinion but if you are reading this , I hope you don't bother reading the book.
May 25, 2017
Bianca St Ives is more of a hero to me than all of the other heroes that I have followed over the years. She is the main character in this book [and apparently there will be a book series] who is so amazing that I find myself going back to re-read what she did! WOW. How did she get out of that one?
Like several other books I have read recently, this one involves the main character being a criminal of sorts, engaging in something of a scam, stealing but not really stealing because the scam is to recover what had already been stolen. Pay attention or you can't follow what might go up in smoke.
[Ultimatum] is an interesting story, a fast read and the best thing I have now realized is that there will be more books to come. And I am going to find what other books Karen Robards has already written so I can read them all.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Like several other books I have read recently, this one involves the main character being a criminal of sorts, engaging in something of a scam, stealing but not really stealing because the scam is to recover what had already been stolen. Pay attention or you can't follow what might go up in smoke.
[Ultimatum] is an interesting story, a fast read and the best thing I have now realized is that there will be more books to come. And I am going to find what other books Karen Robards has already written so I can read them all.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
July 3, 2017
Three stars: An exciting thriller that opens with a bang, but then fizzles.
Bianca is not your average girl. She is a highly trained thief, manipulator, con artist and killer, and tonight she is once again testing her skills. Unfortunately, the heist goes wrong quickly, and Bianca’s must use all of her training and tools to escape. Just when she thinks she will make the boat, disaster strikes. Three of her comrades are caught and killed, one of whom is her father. The very man who trained her. Reeling, Bianca returns back to Savannah and opens a security firm as she tries to figure out her next step. She monitors her father’s email for any activity, and soon she is forced to act. Is her father really dead?
What I Liked:
*I am not going to lie, The Ultimatum is a book that opened up with a bang, and dragged me in. The first chapter is gut wrenching, quickly followed by a thrilling heist which turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Think Oceans Eleven meets Mission Impossible. I was loved the intrigue, the danger and the thrilling action. The first part of this book is riveting, I couldn’t put it down.
*Bianca is a fascinating character. After tragedy strikes for her at a tender young age, she is raised by her father, who turns her into a deadly weapon. Bianca has some mad skills. She is a thief, a con artist, master of disguise and capable of pulling off some of the most difficult jobs around. I loved seeing her in action. This girl is capable of some impressive stunts. She was a terrific character.
*The story had some interesting twists and turns, and I was never sure which direction it was going to take. I liked the surprises and that this book continued to shock me time and time again.
*The ending, though a cliffhanger, was certainly exciting. There are some jaw dropping developments that changed everything. I was caught completely off guard.
And The Not So Much:
*The book ends with a dramatic, life hanging in the balance type cliffhanger. That left me completely frustrated. I hate cliffhangers like that.
*As I mentioned, I was completely drawn in by the first part of the book. The action and danger are thrilling and the book moves at a break neck speed. Then once it hits the midway point, the story loses its momentum. I didn’t like the direction the story took after Bianca leaves Savannah on a wild goose chase. The plot felt flimsy at that point. The book felt disjointed, and it didn’t flow well.
*There are some big developments at the end that will take the future books in an entirely new direction. I am not sure how I feel about that, and not sure if I want to continue. I was frustrated.
*I didn’t like there was a great deal of time on some of the secondary characters, and then they were left behind and forgotten. I was enjoying getting to know the gang in Savannah.
*There is this weird sort of romance, and I am still not sure what to make of it. It wasn’t really a relationship, but there was a definite attraction. I am not a fan as of yet.
The Ultimatum is a book that I wanted to love as it opened with a bang. I loved the action, the danger and the riveting suspense in the earlier chapters. Sadly, the second half of the book flounders with a slow plot, disjointed story lines and a dramatic cliffhanger. If you like books with a Mission Impossible/ Ocean’s 11 vibe, you might like this one. I enjoyed the first half, but was disappointed in the second. This is one I would recommend borrowing if you are wanting to read it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Bianca is not your average girl. She is a highly trained thief, manipulator, con artist and killer, and tonight she is once again testing her skills. Unfortunately, the heist goes wrong quickly, and Bianca’s must use all of her training and tools to escape. Just when she thinks she will make the boat, disaster strikes. Three of her comrades are caught and killed, one of whom is her father. The very man who trained her. Reeling, Bianca returns back to Savannah and opens a security firm as she tries to figure out her next step. She monitors her father’s email for any activity, and soon she is forced to act. Is her father really dead?
What I Liked:
*I am not going to lie, The Ultimatum is a book that opened up with a bang, and dragged me in. The first chapter is gut wrenching, quickly followed by a thrilling heist which turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Think Oceans Eleven meets Mission Impossible. I was loved the intrigue, the danger and the thrilling action. The first part of this book is riveting, I couldn’t put it down.
*Bianca is a fascinating character. After tragedy strikes for her at a tender young age, she is raised by her father, who turns her into a deadly weapon. Bianca has some mad skills. She is a thief, a con artist, master of disguise and capable of pulling off some of the most difficult jobs around. I loved seeing her in action. This girl is capable of some impressive stunts. She was a terrific character.
*The story had some interesting twists and turns, and I was never sure which direction it was going to take. I liked the surprises and that this book continued to shock me time and time again.
*The ending, though a cliffhanger, was certainly exciting. There are some jaw dropping developments that changed everything. I was caught completely off guard.
And The Not So Much:
*The book ends with a dramatic, life hanging in the balance type cliffhanger. That left me completely frustrated. I hate cliffhangers like that.
*As I mentioned, I was completely drawn in by the first part of the book. The action and danger are thrilling and the book moves at a break neck speed. Then once it hits the midway point, the story loses its momentum. I didn’t like the direction the story took after Bianca leaves Savannah on a wild goose chase. The plot felt flimsy at that point. The book felt disjointed, and it didn’t flow well.
*There are some big developments at the end that will take the future books in an entirely new direction. I am not sure how I feel about that, and not sure if I want to continue. I was frustrated.
*I didn’t like there was a great deal of time on some of the secondary characters, and then they were left behind and forgotten. I was enjoying getting to know the gang in Savannah.
*There is this weird sort of romance, and I am still not sure what to make of it. It wasn’t really a relationship, but there was a definite attraction. I am not a fan as of yet.
The Ultimatum is a book that I wanted to love as it opened with a bang. I loved the action, the danger and the riveting suspense in the earlier chapters. Sadly, the second half of the book flounders with a slow plot, disjointed story lines and a dramatic cliffhanger. If you like books with a Mission Impossible/ Ocean’s 11 vibe, you might like this one. I enjoyed the first half, but was disappointed in the second. This is one I would recommend borrowing if you are wanting to read it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
June 1, 2017
In compliance with FTC guidelines -- I received this book from Goodreads Giveaways in exchange for an honest review. The content of this review is not influenced by that fact. The feelings expressed are solely mine.
More accurate rating is 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book and it kept my interest. I read it quickly and was involved and wanted to know the outcome of the story. Most importantly, I am quite happy to report that the female lead character did not make me angry or seethe with disgust. That doesn't sound like an endorsement? Well, it truly is. Check out a few of my other reviews to see for yourself!
Ordinarily I finish books of this genre monumentally disliking the way the females are written. I cannot stand when an author thinks a character must be arrogant and snide to be tough. On the contrary, one can be strong without being unapproachable or a bitch. I think Karen Robards has created a fantastic female lead in this series. She shows true emotion, and vulnerability without being weak or whiny. But more importantly she was likable and I was in her corner throughout the book. If that was where the review ended I'd give this an easy 4 or 4.5 stars. Unfortunately, something else sent the hairs on the back of my neck to attention on numerous occasions. I have to call a spade a spade here. Ultimately, it was the actual writing style. The best I can explain is that in several places it seemed the author was trying too hard to be contemporary or hip. It was annoying and nerve grating that she did not use correct sentence structure or grammar. I know some of you, especially those who know me best, might think I'm being very hypocritical since I too do some of these same things in my reviews and correspondence. All I can say to that is --I am not a published author and my communication is solely conversational. If I were writing a novel I would most definitely employ better writing skills or at least my proofreader should! (Ha)
There's no better way than to just give examples of what I'm talking about. So here we go:
(I am typing these directly out of the book without changes!)
Any thoughts of Mickey-not that she had any-were just a waste of brainpower.
(The book was filled with "sentences" like this! One or two and I probably would not have noticed, but there had to be at least one or two on each page.)
The only way she was escaping was to immediately dart through three crowded rooms and take a flying leap into the bay-
(Why just a dash when a period would be correct since it's a complete thought?)
Bianca sat in the passenger seat of a white panel van with Doc behind the wheel in a parking garage in beautiful downtown San Jose, carefully surveying the top (16th) story of the building across the street through her binoculars.
(Why not just incorporate the fact she was watching the 16th floor into the sentence with a comma or better yet break this long sentence up and add another line stating it was the 16th floor? I really do not understand why she chose this method. Again this was not the only instance. It was prevalent throughout the writing.)
Even though I really disliked English class, I can see that proper use of sentence structure in the written word was drilled into my head. Am I better for it? I suppose that remains to be seen. Will other authors begin incorporating more of this style into their books? I suppose only time will tell.
More accurate rating is 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book and it kept my interest. I read it quickly and was involved and wanted to know the outcome of the story. Most importantly, I am quite happy to report that the female lead character did not make me angry or seethe with disgust. That doesn't sound like an endorsement? Well, it truly is. Check out a few of my other reviews to see for yourself!
Ordinarily I finish books of this genre monumentally disliking the way the females are written. I cannot stand when an author thinks a character must be arrogant and snide to be tough. On the contrary, one can be strong without being unapproachable or a bitch. I think Karen Robards has created a fantastic female lead in this series. She shows true emotion, and vulnerability without being weak or whiny. But more importantly she was likable and I was in her corner throughout the book. If that was where the review ended I'd give this an easy 4 or 4.5 stars. Unfortunately, something else sent the hairs on the back of my neck to attention on numerous occasions. I have to call a spade a spade here. Ultimately, it was the actual writing style. The best I can explain is that in several places it seemed the author was trying too hard to be contemporary or hip. It was annoying and nerve grating that she did not use correct sentence structure or grammar. I know some of you, especially those who know me best, might think I'm being very hypocritical since I too do some of these same things in my reviews and correspondence. All I can say to that is --I am not a published author and my communication is solely conversational. If I were writing a novel I would most definitely employ better writing skills or at least my proofreader should! (Ha)
There's no better way than to just give examples of what I'm talking about. So here we go:
(I am typing these directly out of the book without changes!)
Any thoughts of Mickey-not that she had any-were just a waste of brainpower.
(The book was filled with "sentences" like this! One or two and I probably would not have noticed, but there had to be at least one or two on each page.)
The only way she was escaping was to immediately dart through three crowded rooms and take a flying leap into the bay-
(Why just a dash when a period would be correct since it's a complete thought?)
Bianca sat in the passenger seat of a white panel van with Doc behind the wheel in a parking garage in beautiful downtown San Jose, carefully surveying the top (16th) story of the building across the street through her binoculars.
(Why not just incorporate the fact she was watching the 16th floor into the sentence with a comma or better yet break this long sentence up and add another line stating it was the 16th floor? I really do not understand why she chose this method. Again this was not the only instance. It was prevalent throughout the writing.)
Even though I really disliked English class, I can see that proper use of sentence structure in the written word was drilled into my head. Am I better for it? I suppose that remains to be seen. Will other authors begin incorporating more of this style into their books? I suppose only time will tell.
May 25, 2019
The Ultimatum (The Guardian, #1)
by Karen Robards (Goodreads Author), read by Julia Whelan
Pretty good. Bianca is a little whiny and there seems to me to be an undercurrent from Robards of saying "No girls, you can't be superheroes. Men are always better - see how Colin keeps finding you. You really want him to find you." Plus Bianca reminds me a little bit of that TV show "Castle" where he thinks he's a great writer but he's not. We hear Biana recite all these "rules" that Mason taught her but she rarely follows them. AND we never actually see Bianca use any 'super soldier' powers, she just talks about how she has them.
Once the story gets past this part, the action part is usually pretty good.
The reader, Julia Whelan, is really good with the different voices.
by Karen Robards (Goodreads Author), read by Julia Whelan
Pretty good. Bianca is a little whiny and there seems to me to be an undercurrent from Robards of saying "No girls, you can't be superheroes. Men are always better - see how Colin keeps finding you. You really want him to find you." Plus Bianca reminds me a little bit of that TV show "Castle" where he thinks he's a great writer but he's not. We hear Biana recite all these "rules" that Mason taught her but she rarely follows them. AND we never actually see Bianca use any 'super soldier' powers, she just talks about how she has them.
Once the story gets past this part, the action part is usually pretty good.
The reader, Julia Whelan, is really good with the different voices.
September 17, 2017
If you like suspense and an ending you won't soon forget, this is a great story! I listened on audio CD, and narration by Julia Whelan added enjoyment to the suspense. The second disk covered an elapsed story time of 5 to 7 minutes and kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire 60 to 75 minutes of listening time! I love an amazing ending, and this story did not disappoint, resulting in a rating of 7 out of 10.
June 14, 2017
Well, The Ultimatum is my first ever Karen Robards book and it won't be the last. Wow! This book was amazing. It left me breathless, from the gripping and very scary prologue, right through to the last word, I just couldn't put it down. Ms Robards really is a wonderful storyteller. This is a fast paced thriller that pulls no punches, is action packed, but is also heavily character driven, and this surprised me. It's an entertaining and compulsive read.
I couldn't put this book down, it really does have it all: action, suspense, crime, romance and a female protagonist who is utterly spellbinding, Bianca St. Ives. The beginning of the novel describes Bianca's situation, as she finds herself in the middle of an aborted mission that has gone horribly wrong. Wow, as I read these first few chapters that described her predicament, I saw the movie playing in my mind. The descriptions of what was going on around her, as well as her inner monologue were so captivating. I actually felt that I was Bianca, as my heart raced and the panic began to set in... and the book continued at this relentless pace.
The book is obviously plot driven and focusses heavily upon action and suspense. However, this book is also heavily character driven. I often find when reading this genre that character is less important than that of action, but this book redresses the balance, as character is incredibly important. Bianca is obviously the main focus and I really got to know her and her thought processes throughout the novel. I needed to understand her I feel to fully appreciate the novel. Without such a strong female lead, and a likeable one who has a soft and vulnerable core than you otherwise might expect, this book would not be as much of an emotional read, and it is highly emotional.
The Ultimatum is a crime thriller that is packed full of plot and exciting, memorable characters and I loved it. I loved Bianca and what she stood for. It was an incredibly fun, enjoyable and emotional read... and oh my, that ending! I can't wait to read book two in the series.
With thanks to the publisher and Bookbridgr for an advanced hardback copy for review purposes.
I couldn't put this book down, it really does have it all: action, suspense, crime, romance and a female protagonist who is utterly spellbinding, Bianca St. Ives. The beginning of the novel describes Bianca's situation, as she finds herself in the middle of an aborted mission that has gone horribly wrong. Wow, as I read these first few chapters that described her predicament, I saw the movie playing in my mind. The descriptions of what was going on around her, as well as her inner monologue were so captivating. I actually felt that I was Bianca, as my heart raced and the panic began to set in... and the book continued at this relentless pace.
The book is obviously plot driven and focusses heavily upon action and suspense. However, this book is also heavily character driven. I often find when reading this genre that character is less important than that of action, but this book redresses the balance, as character is incredibly important. Bianca is obviously the main focus and I really got to know her and her thought processes throughout the novel. I needed to understand her I feel to fully appreciate the novel. Without such a strong female lead, and a likeable one who has a soft and vulnerable core than you otherwise might expect, this book would not be as much of an emotional read, and it is highly emotional.
The Ultimatum is a crime thriller that is packed full of plot and exciting, memorable characters and I loved it. I loved Bianca and what she stood for. It was an incredibly fun, enjoyable and emotional read... and oh my, that ending! I can't wait to read book two in the series.
With thanks to the publisher and Bookbridgr for an advanced hardback copy for review purposes.
March 18, 2019
I've had this book on my kindle FOR. EV. ER.
I got it ages ago and started reading it and loved the beginning. But somewhere in the middle it fizzed. And then I'd put it down. Then I'd notice it was still there hovering at the 40% mark, and then I'd read some more but it would not keep me engaged so I'd put it down. Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
I adore heist books and long cons and capers and thieves etc. So this book was way up my alley! This book started with a bang and was both fun and angsty. There is a great heist that goes wrong and we have a great main character in Bianca.
But then something unfortunate happens somewhere in the middle-- the momentum gets lost, the story kinda stalls, some plot elements felt rather predictable and I lost interest in the main character. In fact I had a hard time concentrating on the book. So I'd put it down for long stretches, only to remember I hadn't finished it and would pick it up again. To be fair there were some twists and some left turns I was not expecting... and yet it could not keep me wholly engaged so at times to keep reading felt like a chore.
Finally I just got sick of seeing it sitting there stalled. I truly did not want to DNF this because I did want to see what happened, so soldiered through hoping it'd spark for me again.
And then the totally unacceptable happens.... it ends on a cliffhanger. I really dislike cliffhanger endings!
So this was great in places but did not work wholly for me.
I got it ages ago and started reading it and loved the beginning. But somewhere in the middle it fizzed. And then I'd put it down. Then I'd notice it was still there hovering at the 40% mark, and then I'd read some more but it would not keep me engaged so I'd put it down. Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
I adore heist books and long cons and capers and thieves etc. So this book was way up my alley! This book started with a bang and was both fun and angsty. There is a great heist that goes wrong and we have a great main character in Bianca.
But then something unfortunate happens somewhere in the middle-- the momentum gets lost, the story kinda stalls, some plot elements felt rather predictable and I lost interest in the main character. In fact I had a hard time concentrating on the book. So I'd put it down for long stretches, only to remember I hadn't finished it and would pick it up again. To be fair there were some twists and some left turns I was not expecting... and yet it could not keep me wholly engaged so at times to keep reading felt like a chore.
Finally I just got sick of seeing it sitting there stalled. I truly did not want to DNF this because I did want to see what happened, so soldiered through hoping it'd spark for me again.
And then the totally unacceptable happens.... it ends on a cliffhanger. I really dislike cliffhanger endings!
So this was great in places but did not work wholly for me.
June 10, 2017
This was definitely an action packed book and it starts out with a bang and a bust. The bust being the two million dollars that Bianca with her dad and their team was set up and in position to steal. However, that was kind of hard for them to do as the vault was empty when they got there. Having been found out, the chase is on and Bianca's father was killed in the getaway, or was he? No one really seems to know. No one has heard from him in years, including his daughter.
Bianca then decides to go legal and opens up a security firm. She handles legit security for several companies. She is still also on the look out for signs that her father is still alive. Unfortunately, there are others who want him punished that are also looking for him.
This was one of those books wherein the action just kept coming. It was definitely an entertaining and enjoyable read.
Thanks to Harlequin and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Bianca then decides to go legal and opens up a security firm. She handles legit security for several companies. She is still also on the look out for signs that her father is still alive. Unfortunately, there are others who want him punished that are also looking for him.
This was one of those books wherein the action just kept coming. It was definitely an entertaining and enjoyable read.
Thanks to Harlequin and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
June 20, 2017
See full review at HarlequinJunkie.com
What a thrilling story! The Ultimatum was all non-stop action as one woman’s past began to unravel and everything she thought she knew came into question.
‘Mentor, teacher, taskmaster. Ruthless disciplinarian. Despot. Her constant in an uncertain world. Con man. Thief. Dad.’
Karen Robards is at the top of her game with this new series. The only way I can describe the level of subterfuge and action in this novel is to compare it to a female James Bond meets the Italian Job with a little Mission Impossible thrown in (for heist/action flick fans). Our heroine Bianca had all the cool gizmos, gadgets, and tools of the trade you’d expect, all while switching identities with the greatest of ease. We were kind of dropped right into the action at the start of this story so it took me a short while to acclimate myself to what was going on, but once I got my bearings things fell into place and it was a crazy fun adventure. Read More
What a thrilling story! The Ultimatum was all non-stop action as one woman’s past began to unravel and everything she thought she knew came into question.
‘Mentor, teacher, taskmaster. Ruthless disciplinarian. Despot. Her constant in an uncertain world. Con man. Thief. Dad.’
Karen Robards is at the top of her game with this new series. The only way I can describe the level of subterfuge and action in this novel is to compare it to a female James Bond meets the Italian Job with a little Mission Impossible thrown in (for heist/action flick fans). Our heroine Bianca had all the cool gizmos, gadgets, and tools of the trade you’d expect, all while switching identities with the greatest of ease. We were kind of dropped right into the action at the start of this story so it took me a short while to acclimate myself to what was going on, but once I got my bearings things fell into place and it was a crazy fun adventure. Read More
December 15, 2017
Opening a Karen Robards suspense thriller is the same as opening a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get. But whatever you take a bite of is gonna be rich and deliciously satisfying.
From the opening chapter where a terrified little girl is witness to her parents murder, the suspense builds like a tsunami tidal wave.
Then we get to meet Bianca St. Ives, she’s a cool cucumber and expert thief. It’s nail biting how she narrowly escapes capture time and again, and she is clever. So clever. And talented.
But when a job goes awry, Bianca is forced to make a deal that jogs her memory of a forgotten past. The huntress is now the hunted, and the stakes are so much higher.
Robards throws in a potential love interest who is a distraction for Bianca, but not enough that she can’t toss him on his butt or overboard a boat.
Did I mention she’s a skilled fighter too? And a safe cracker? One can learn a lot about how to kill, steal and escape, thanks to Robards in-depth descriptions.
The end leaves the possibility of a sequel, and I want to read it!
From the opening chapter where a terrified little girl is witness to her parents murder, the suspense builds like a tsunami tidal wave.
Then we get to meet Bianca St. Ives, she’s a cool cucumber and expert thief. It’s nail biting how she narrowly escapes capture time and again, and she is clever. So clever. And talented.
But when a job goes awry, Bianca is forced to make a deal that jogs her memory of a forgotten past. The huntress is now the hunted, and the stakes are so much higher.
Robards throws in a potential love interest who is a distraction for Bianca, but not enough that she can’t toss him on his butt or overboard a boat.
Did I mention she’s a skilled fighter too? And a safe cracker? One can learn a lot about how to kill, steal and escape, thanks to Robards in-depth descriptions.
The end leaves the possibility of a sequel, and I want to read it!
June 16, 2017
Karen Robards is one of the best authors in the Romance and action genre. She has always been one of my "buy without reading overview" authors. I have never given her books anything less than 5 stars...until now. Let me explain...there is no question that she is held at a higher standard than most simply because she is "that good"! She's never let her fans down. Never!
In this case, the story is good and is obviously a first book in a series that will continue with these characters. I'm disappointed however because I'm a "read it in one" type of fan. I don't like series that are not stand alone books. I don't like waiting a year to find out what happens...especially a Karen Robards book.
I will always buy her books "no matter what" but I'm just disappointed this story and format is different than her previous books.
In this case, the story is good and is obviously a first book in a series that will continue with these characters. I'm disappointed however because I'm a "read it in one" type of fan. I don't like series that are not stand alone books. I don't like waiting a year to find out what happens...especially a Karen Robards book.
I will always buy her books "no matter what" but I'm just disappointed this story and format is different than her previous books.
d-n-f
February 11, 2018Eleven chapters and 38% of the way through and I'm done. Nothing is happening. Nothing is explained. It's boring and pointless. She's charging TWELVE WHOLE DOLLARS for the Kindle edition? Are you fucking kidding me? That is offensive.
October 17, 2017
I enjoyed it! Over all, the story line was good with some surprises! I do like Bianca! Great beginning and a good ending!
September 6, 2017
The ultimate question when starting a new series is - do I like this story line enough to want to continue to read more books? With The Ultimatum, the answer is yes.
The female lead, Bianca St. Ives, is a bit James Bondish. She smart, beautiful, quick thinking and a good problem solver. While she frequently gets herself into difficult situations, she always finds an interesting way out. I find these kinds of stories to be pure escapism. Something just to have fun with. And the ending? The author left us with quite a cliffhanger (an inside joke for anyone who reads this).
ARC from Harlequin, via Netgalley
The female lead, Bianca St. Ives, is a bit James Bondish. She smart, beautiful, quick thinking and a good problem solver. While she frequently gets herself into difficult situations, she always finds an interesting way out. I find these kinds of stories to be pure escapism. Something just to have fun with. And the ending? The author left us with quite a cliffhanger (an inside joke for anyone who reads this).
ARC from Harlequin, via Netgalley
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