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Ballistic Cowboys #1
Hot Combat
Can a sexy SEAL discover the truth before terror explodes?
Loaned to the task force taking on the most dangerous Homeland Security challenges, injured SEAL Jon "Ghost" Caspar is assigned to protect a former lover and her daughter…and prevent an imminent terrorist attack on his Wyoming hometown.
Single mom Charlie McClain hoped she'd never again see the gorgeous cowboy who broke her heart, but with her safety compromised, she needs Ghost. Can she still resist his rugged charms…and keep a bombshell secret about their affair?
With a terrorist on the loose, Ghost struggles to remain professional. But the elite bodyguard can't guard his heart against beautiful Charlie and her adorable daughter…
Ballistic Cowboys
Loaned to the task force taking on the most dangerous Homeland Security challenges, injured SEAL Jon "Ghost" Caspar is assigned to protect a former lover and her daughter…and prevent an imminent terrorist attack on his Wyoming hometown.
Single mom Charlie McClain hoped she'd never again see the gorgeous cowboy who broke her heart, but with her safety compromised, she needs Ghost. Can she still resist his rugged charms…and keep a bombshell secret about their affair?
With a terrorist on the loose, Ghost struggles to remain professional. But the elite bodyguard can't guard his heart against beautiful Charlie and her adorable daughter…
Ballistic Cowboys
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2017
173 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Elle James
715 books1,201 followersAward-winning author Elle James grew up as an air force military brat. She received her work ethic from her rock-solid father, her creative streak from her artistic mother and inspiration from her writing partner and sister, Delilah Devlin. As a former member of the army reserves and a current member of the air force reserves, she's traveled across the United States and to Germany, managed a full-time job, and raised three wonderful children. She and her husband have even tried their hands at ranching exotic birds (ostriches, emus and rheas) in the Texas hill country. Ask her, and she'll tell you what it's like to go toe-to-toe with an angry three-hundred-and-fifty-pound bird and live to tell about it!
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 5, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I did a bad. I'm reading this way out of order. It is not even on my reading list for January, 2017. So much for being more organized in 2017. One resolution already down the crapper. Oh, well... In my defense I was in Sears waiting and waiting and.... waiting for customer service. I pulled out my I-phone and brought up this Elle James book. Not the one I need to read in January, but a book with a February publish date. This book is a great start to what will be a wonderful series. Sweet 2nd chance romance, a SEAL in action and a threat on home soil. You just can't ask for much more.
Charlie is working part time for the Department of Homeland Security monitoring social media and chat groups for baddies stirring up trouble. She finds a group making threats against a government facility. Where? When? She is trying to track that when she gets a personal threat for doing that. With a six year old daughter to protect, Charlie is plenty spooked.
Jon (Ghost) Casper is a Navy SEAL on loan to DHS while he recovers from an injury. He wants nothing to do with this assignment and his posting to his hometown of Grizzly Pass, Wyoning. He has nothing there anymore, except the girl he loved and left seven years ago.
Ghost is assigned to protect Charlie while DHS contains the threat to her. Well, let's just say that he is more than a little shocked and surprised to find Charlie and her daughter, Lolly, as his assignment and his family.
Now, I have to wait until February 1 when the to "officially" post this review. I just hate when that happens.
I did a bad. I'm reading this way out of order. It is not even on my reading list for January, 2017. So much for being more organized in 2017. One resolution already down the crapper. Oh, well... In my defense I was in Sears waiting and waiting and.... waiting for customer service. I pulled out my I-phone and brought up this Elle James book. Not the one I need to read in January, but a book with a February publish date. This book is a great start to what will be a wonderful series. Sweet 2nd chance romance, a SEAL in action and a threat on home soil. You just can't ask for much more.
Charlie is working part time for the Department of Homeland Security monitoring social media and chat groups for baddies stirring up trouble. She finds a group making threats against a government facility. Where? When? She is trying to track that when she gets a personal threat for doing that. With a six year old daughter to protect, Charlie is plenty spooked.
Jon (Ghost) Casper is a Navy SEAL on loan to DHS while he recovers from an injury. He wants nothing to do with this assignment and his posting to his hometown of Grizzly Pass, Wyoning. He has nothing there anymore, except the girl he loved and left seven years ago.
Ghost is assigned to protect Charlie while DHS contains the threat to her. Well, let's just say that he is more than a little shocked and surprised to find Charlie and her daughter, Lolly, as his assignment and his family.
Now, I have to wait until February 1 when the to "officially" post this review. I just hate when that happens.
February 24, 2017
I do enjoy romantic suspense and this one hit the mark for me. This is the first book in a new series by Elle James called “Ballistic Cowboys”. Readers are introduced to a cast of strong, likeable characters to cheer for. Ghost is part of a group of men assigned to a task force to protect the country from terrorists. Ghost and Charlie have a ton of chemistry. They are a couple readers can truly care about.
Ghost’s first assignment is to protect Charlie and her young daughter who are receiving threats. He’s shocked to discover Charlie is no stranger to him. They must put their past aside to figure out the current danger threat.
The storyline is jam-packed with action, adventure, mystery and much romance. This book is so fast-paced, I felt as if I were on a never-ending roller coaster ride. To add to my enjoyment of the book, I was surprised by the ending. I didn’t see it coming.
This is a continuing series and I, for one, am looking forward to the next one. In fact, it’s already downloaded to my e-reader.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ghost’s first assignment is to protect Charlie and her young daughter who are receiving threats. He’s shocked to discover Charlie is no stranger to him. They must put their past aside to figure out the current danger threat.
The storyline is jam-packed with action, adventure, mystery and much romance. This book is so fast-paced, I felt as if I were on a never-ending roller coaster ride. To add to my enjoyment of the book, I was surprised by the ending. I didn’t see it coming.
This is a continuing series and I, for one, am looking forward to the next one. In fact, it’s already downloaded to my e-reader.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 23, 2018
A crack team of specialists are convened in Wyoming, where it seems as if terrorist activity is looming. One of them is Navy SEAL Jon "Ghost" Caspar, and he is tasked with protecting Charlie McClain, who does sideline work for the Department of Homeland Security monitoring websites for suspicious terrorist activity. Her searches have made her a target. Complicating Jon's mission is the fact that he and Charlie were an item seven years previously, and her daughter Lolly is his child that he never knew about.
This was an easy, entertaining read. But it's also quite stupid! Charlie lives in Wyoming and wants to protect her daughter and keep her out of danger - so what the hell is she doing helping out Homeland and monitoring terrorists on the web? She seems to think using the library's Wi-Fi will hide her identity! What the hell?!? It was unbelievably contrived. The book needed a better reason to have Jon come back into the picture to protect her.
Similarly, the "crack" team know that something hinky is going down at Yellowstone Park, most likely connected to the bubbling social unrest and potential terrorist activity. Yet when Charlie - who is supposed to be under protection - calls to tell all six of them that she's on a bus with a bunch of children to YELLOWSTONE FUCKING PARK, none of them blink and eyelid and think she will be perfectly safe! I mean, come on!
Also, I hate, hate, hate, hate, hate heroines who keep paternity a secret. Charlies thinks to herself at one stage that maybe she should have told Jon that he had a daughter. Um, yes, Charlie! You should have, you selfish thing!
Despite all the contrivance and stupidity on display, and a gratuitous bear attack (!) to pad out the word count, I still enjoyed the story, as it was at least fast-paced, and it had a really entertaining, action-packed climax. Despite being part of a mini-series (groan), the storyline for this entry managed to wrap itself up reasonably satisfyingly, and did weave enough intrigue for me to be interested in the other books in the series.
This was an easy, entertaining read. But it's also quite stupid! Charlie lives in Wyoming and wants to protect her daughter and keep her out of danger - so what the hell is she doing helping out Homeland and monitoring terrorists on the web? She seems to think using the library's Wi-Fi will hide her identity! What the hell?!? It was unbelievably contrived. The book needed a better reason to have Jon come back into the picture to protect her.
Similarly, the "crack" team know that something hinky is going down at Yellowstone Park, most likely connected to the bubbling social unrest and potential terrorist activity. Yet when Charlie - who is supposed to be under protection - calls to tell all six of them that she's on a bus with a bunch of children to YELLOWSTONE FUCKING PARK, none of them blink and eyelid and think she will be perfectly safe! I mean, come on!
Also, I hate, hate, hate, hate, hate heroines who keep paternity a secret. Charlies thinks to herself at one stage that maybe she should have told Jon that he had a daughter. Um, yes, Charlie! You should have, you selfish thing!
Despite all the contrivance and stupidity on display, and a gratuitous bear attack (!) to pad out the word count, I still enjoyed the story, as it was at least fast-paced, and it had a really entertaining, action-packed climax. Despite being part of a mini-series (groan), the storyline for this entry managed to wrap itself up reasonably satisfyingly, and did weave enough intrigue for me to be interested in the other books in the series.
March 4, 2020
This had one of the tropes I really don't like and stay away from (secret baby- you can easily guess). However, in this book, it didn't bother and piss me off like it usually does. Charlie's motivations and secrecy made sense to me. She still took away a choice from Jon, but I still liked her. The plot line was relevant to today (right wing anti government sentiment and using arms to make the displeasure known and it was based in the West- which is something that has happened in this general area- see the Bundys and the occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge).
There were a few things that didn't make sense to me/just made me roll my eyes. One of suspects spouses was interviewed and she said something about how she doesn't know how to use their computer and they took her at her word (I got the impression that because she was an older woman she wouldn't know computers). Another one was how 30 yr olds having mad internet/computer skills because (you know) they grew up with it.
I did like this one. The main characters was interesting and likable.
I read this for Romance-opoly Soldier Street sun track
There were a few things that didn't make sense to me/just made me roll my eyes. One of suspects spouses was interviewed and she said something about how she doesn't know how to use their computer and they took her at her word (I got the impression that because she was an older woman she wouldn't know computers). Another one was how 30 yr olds having mad internet/computer skills because (you know) they grew up with it.
I did like this one. The main characters was interesting and likable.
I read this for Romance-opoly Soldier Street sun track
December 10, 2019
Elle James is starting to become one of my favorite authors. I snatched this book when the price dropped, and I’m glad I did. I love a book with action, suspense, and a second chance romance. The little girl Lolly is cute, funny, and melted my heart.
Jon Caspar, and Charlie had a fling 7 years ago. Jon left the small town in Wyoming and focused on his career as a Navy Seal. After an injury he was asked to come back and work with a small team to stop a terrorist group. His first assignment he was giving in his hometown was to protect a DHS agent that had been threatened. He didn’t know who. He was only giving an address. Both him and Charlie couldn’t have been more shocked when he showed up at her home. His time in his small town just came more interesting. He has to work with Charlie and the other team members to find out who is behind the threats. Lolly the little girl had him wrapped around her finger in no time. It was cute. This was a great book to read!
Jon Caspar, and Charlie had a fling 7 years ago. Jon left the small town in Wyoming and focused on his career as a Navy Seal. After an injury he was asked to come back and work with a small team to stop a terrorist group. His first assignment he was giving in his hometown was to protect a DHS agent that had been threatened. He didn’t know who. He was only giving an address. Both him and Charlie couldn’t have been more shocked when he showed up at her home. His time in his small town just came more interesting. He has to work with Charlie and the other team members to find out who is behind the threats. Lolly the little girl had him wrapped around her finger in no time. It was cute. This was a great book to read!
March 1, 2017
Hot Combat is the first novel in Elle James' "Ballistic Cowboys" series, and I found it somewhat confusing for several reasons. First, The title--the hero, Jon "Ghost" Caspar, isn't a cowboy, he's a Navy SEAL, who has returned to his former home in Grizzly Pass, Wyoming to recuperate from a shrapnel wound to his leg. Second, there's not much in the way of combat in this story, most of it deals with terrorist threat assessment on the Internet under the aegis of the Department of Homeland Security, and the combatant in this case isn't Ghost, it's Charlie McClain, the heroine. For these reasons and several others, I could only give this novel 3.5 stars.
Charlie is the single mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Lolly. As such, we're told that she's struggled to make ends meet, so, in addition to her regular job as a software engineer, she's accepted at part-time job as a social-media analyst for the aforementioned Homeland Security, and while doing that and investigating a suspicious post, the person posting it manages to hack her webcam and blow her cover. In addition, he's threatened her, and when she reports it to DHS they send her a protector/bodyguard--Ghost, with whom, 7 years ago, at age 19, she had a brief, no-strings, no-love affair (although Charlie fell in love with him anyway) an affair that resulted in a pregnancy and her now 7-year-old daughter, a daughter that Ghost didn't know he had.
When Ghost realizes that Lolly is his daughter, he wants to be part of her life. Charlie, who was heartbroken when he left her to join the SEALs, doesn't think she could possibly survive that kind of heartbreak again, but despite her protestations, the spark is still there between them, although much of that heat is rather subdued and totally unlike any of the other romance novels I've read by Ms. James. While Ghost still believes that he loves Charlie, and Charlie still loves him, the passion just didn't come across as genuine or heartfelt, although I did like Ghost's quickly developing love of his daughter.
I'm also surprised by how flat the setting in this novel seemed. Although it was described, again, Ms. James didn't make me feel that I was in Wyoming. The most real character for me was Lolly, who was adorable and spunky and charming. Ghost and Charlie were likable characters, but again, compared to other second chance at love romances, I didn't feel connected to either of them. I kept wondering why neither of them asked what the other had been doing for the past 7 years. Ghost, at first, wonders about where Lolly's father could be, and Charlie wonders if Ghost has a wife somewhere, but they never actually ask those questions, nor does Charlie ever ask Ghost where they go from here. He mentions wanting to be in Lolly's life, but doesn't say how he intends to do that, since he's stationed in Virginia, 2,000 miles away.
As I mentioned earlier, there is some actual conflict late in the novel, yet again, while Charlie and Lolly are in danger, and Ghost wants to rescue them, I didn't feel his panic at the possibility of losing them. Yes, he's a SEAL, but he's also a father and in love with Charlie, so his lack of emotion struck me as odd.
This was just an okay read for me, and lacked the heat and depth of emotion I've come to expect from Ms. James' novels.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel.
Charlie is the single mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Lolly. As such, we're told that she's struggled to make ends meet, so, in addition to her regular job as a software engineer, she's accepted at part-time job as a social-media analyst for the aforementioned Homeland Security, and while doing that and investigating a suspicious post, the person posting it manages to hack her webcam and blow her cover. In addition, he's threatened her, and when she reports it to DHS they send her a protector/bodyguard--Ghost, with whom, 7 years ago, at age 19, she had a brief, no-strings, no-love affair (although Charlie fell in love with him anyway) an affair that resulted in a pregnancy and her now 7-year-old daughter, a daughter that Ghost didn't know he had.
When Ghost realizes that Lolly is his daughter, he wants to be part of her life. Charlie, who was heartbroken when he left her to join the SEALs, doesn't think she could possibly survive that kind of heartbreak again, but despite her protestations, the spark is still there between them, although much of that heat is rather subdued and totally unlike any of the other romance novels I've read by Ms. James. While Ghost still believes that he loves Charlie, and Charlie still loves him, the passion just didn't come across as genuine or heartfelt, although I did like Ghost's quickly developing love of his daughter.
I'm also surprised by how flat the setting in this novel seemed. Although it was described, again, Ms. James didn't make me feel that I was in Wyoming. The most real character for me was Lolly, who was adorable and spunky and charming. Ghost and Charlie were likable characters, but again, compared to other second chance at love romances, I didn't feel connected to either of them. I kept wondering why neither of them asked what the other had been doing for the past 7 years. Ghost, at first, wonders about where Lolly's father could be, and Charlie wonders if Ghost has a wife somewhere, but they never actually ask those questions, nor does Charlie ever ask Ghost where they go from here. He mentions wanting to be in Lolly's life, but doesn't say how he intends to do that, since he's stationed in Virginia, 2,000 miles away.
As I mentioned earlier, there is some actual conflict late in the novel, yet again, while Charlie and Lolly are in danger, and Ghost wants to rescue them, I didn't feel his panic at the possibility of losing them. Yes, he's a SEAL, but he's also a father and in love with Charlie, so his lack of emotion struck me as odd.
This was just an okay read for me, and lacked the heat and depth of emotion I've come to expect from Ms. James' novels.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel.
February 2, 2017
Hot Combat has such an energetic, intense feeling in it through the story. The action is brutal and cruel and it hits at the most unexpected times. The boisterous passion between Jon and Charlie is reignited as soon as they meet again, yet the feelings between them are deep and rooted.
I loved this story. I loved the vitality of it, it was flowing off the pages with such drive I was lost in it, the rest of the world not existing.
Jon and Charlie have nurtured the fire between them for years deep in their hearts. Jon is kind, caring, protective, and has tenderness in him that made me swoon. He is wounded, in a crossroads in his life, and the chance meeting with Charlie changes everything.
Charlie is tough, capable, independent, and makes things happen. I loved how she took charge and was willing to make compromises and sacrifices if needed when facing the malice and danger. They were so perfect for each other, it was a joy to watch them fumble into love, wishing they would live long enough to have a chance with a future together.
I loved how the team was set up, how there wasn't that 'staging' that sometimes comes with the first book of a series. All fell into the place naturally, the team is skillful and competent and I am looking forward getting to know them better. The action they engaged in wasn't only against the homegrown terrorist and angry townfolks, it was also against the elements, nature, and wildlife. It set my heart raising, the danger and death coming right at them with rancor. A perfect mix of suspense and threat, delightful family bonding, and luscious passion and sweet loving.
~ Five Spoons
I loved this story. I loved the vitality of it, it was flowing off the pages with such drive I was lost in it, the rest of the world not existing.
Jon and Charlie have nurtured the fire between them for years deep in their hearts. Jon is kind, caring, protective, and has tenderness in him that made me swoon. He is wounded, in a crossroads in his life, and the chance meeting with Charlie changes everything.
Charlie is tough, capable, independent, and makes things happen. I loved how she took charge and was willing to make compromises and sacrifices if needed when facing the malice and danger. They were so perfect for each other, it was a joy to watch them fumble into love, wishing they would live long enough to have a chance with a future together.
I loved how the team was set up, how there wasn't that 'staging' that sometimes comes with the first book of a series. All fell into the place naturally, the team is skillful and competent and I am looking forward getting to know them better. The action they engaged in wasn't only against the homegrown terrorist and angry townfolks, it was also against the elements, nature, and wildlife. It set my heart raising, the danger and death coming right at them with rancor. A perfect mix of suspense and threat, delightful family bonding, and luscious passion and sweet loving.
~ Five Spoons
February 5, 2017
Hot Combat (Ballistic Cowboys #1) by Elle James will take you on a hot and explosive journey. This brand new story will make you breathless and have your pulse racing with all the action taking place and of course the drama will have you shaking your fists!
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
July 2, 2023
1. Hot Combat
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Combat: Ballistic Cowboy Book One by Elle James and this review was given freely.
This second chance at love novel is full of tension, suspense, danger, and violence combined with some steamy moments and tender family scenes.
The embittered convalescing Naval SEAL Jon “Ghost” Caspar finds himself assigned to Homeland Security in his hometown of Grizzly Pass, protecting the woman her can’t forget, Charlie McClain, from a militant faction, and suddenly a father of a six-year-old daughter.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Contains an intense but happy ending.
2. Hot Target
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Target: Ballistic Cowboy Book One by Elle James and this review was given freely.
Bonding over attraction, grief, and murder, this is an intense steamy instant attraction novel with a persistent assassin.
Convalescing, PTSD-suffering Army Delta Force sniper Max “Caveman” Decker finds himself temporarily assigned to Homeland Security to protect a pipeline inspector in Wyoming only to stumble upon the injured Yellowstone National Park wolf biologist Grace, who witnessed a murder and find himself back under attack.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Best if read in series order. Contains an intense but happy ending.
3. Hot Zone
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Zone: Ballistic Cowboy Book Three by Elle James and this review was given freely.
An action and drama-packed “almost instant” attraction romance where the new owner of Stone Oak Ranch is the last in her family line, which a persistent killer wants to end.
When Army Ranger Trace “Hawkeye” Walsh chases a bomber off government land, Hawkeye finds himself rescuing the grieving Olivia and her foreman from a truck fire, volunteers to be her ranch hand and bodyguard, and is instantly attracted to his client.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Best if read in series order. Contains an intense but happy ending.
4. Hot Velocity
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Velocity: Ballistic Cowboy Book Four by Elle James and this review was given freely.
A fitting Fourth of July novel featuring Homeland Security, national safety, the US military, empowerment, and selfless, fiercely protective main characters.
Grieving US Marine Captain Rex ”T-Rex” Trainor and newly emancipated abuse victim, divorcee’, and Mother’s Day Out Day Caregiver Sierra Daniels find themselves strongly attracted to each other, and amid one danger-filled scene after another in this action and violence-filled conclusion to the series.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes.
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Combat: Ballistic Cowboy Book One by Elle James and this review was given freely.
This second chance at love novel is full of tension, suspense, danger, and violence combined with some steamy moments and tender family scenes.
The embittered convalescing Naval SEAL Jon “Ghost” Caspar finds himself assigned to Homeland Security in his hometown of Grizzly Pass, protecting the woman her can’t forget, Charlie McClain, from a militant faction, and suddenly a father of a six-year-old daughter.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Contains an intense but happy ending.
2. Hot Target
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Target: Ballistic Cowboy Book One by Elle James and this review was given freely.
Bonding over attraction, grief, and murder, this is an intense steamy instant attraction novel with a persistent assassin.
Convalescing, PTSD-suffering Army Delta Force sniper Max “Caveman” Decker finds himself temporarily assigned to Homeland Security to protect a pipeline inspector in Wyoming only to stumble upon the injured Yellowstone National Park wolf biologist Grace, who witnessed a murder and find himself back under attack.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Best if read in series order. Contains an intense but happy ending.
3. Hot Zone
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Zone: Ballistic Cowboy Book Three by Elle James and this review was given freely.
An action and drama-packed “almost instant” attraction romance where the new owner of Stone Oak Ranch is the last in her family line, which a persistent killer wants to end.
When Army Ranger Trace “Hawkeye” Walsh chases a bomber off government land, Hawkeye finds himself rescuing the grieving Olivia and her foreman from a truck fire, volunteers to be her ranch hand and bodyguard, and is instantly attracted to his client.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes. Best if read in series order. Contains an intense but happy ending.
4. Hot Velocity
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy Wyoming set Harlequin Intrigue romance Hot Velocity: Ballistic Cowboy Book Four by Elle James and this review was given freely.
A fitting Fourth of July novel featuring Homeland Security, national safety, the US military, empowerment, and selfless, fiercely protective main characters.
Grieving US Marine Captain Rex ”T-Rex” Trainor and newly emancipated abuse victim, divorcee’, and Mother’s Day Out Day Caregiver Sierra Daniels find themselves strongly attracted to each other, and amid one danger-filled scene after another in this action and violence-filled conclusion to the series.
18+ for violence and intimate scenes.
March 17, 2024
Ghost was using his "man-sense"
His man-thinking that had him walking away when he didn't want to hurt Charlie by dragging her around the country as a SEAL's wife back-fired epically! He has hurt them both far more than he ever could have had they continued their relationship, but hindsight cannot change reality, so for now we get the pleasure of seeing him grovel as he woo's Charlie and Lolly, hoping to regain their trust and earn their love. Charlie is a sassy and feisty character and whilst there are times she is a little too confident and blase about her safety, you cannot help but respect her determination, her love and her crazy plan of escape. I really, really like that she does just fall straight into Ghost's arms again - despite the fact she has always loved him, she makes him work for her forgiveness and for the honour of being Lolly's daddy.
A fast paced and explosive start to this new series, I really like the eclectic team that has been gathered to form the Ballistic Cowboys.
His man-thinking that had him walking away when he didn't want to hurt Charlie by dragging her around the country as a SEAL's wife back-fired epically! He has hurt them both far more than he ever could have had they continued their relationship, but hindsight cannot change reality, so for now we get the pleasure of seeing him grovel as he woo's Charlie and Lolly, hoping to regain their trust and earn their love. Charlie is a sassy and feisty character and whilst there are times she is a little too confident and blase about her safety, you cannot help but respect her determination, her love and her crazy plan of escape. I really, really like that she does just fall straight into Ghost's arms again - despite the fact she has always loved him, she makes him work for her forgiveness and for the honour of being Lolly's daddy.
A fast paced and explosive start to this new series, I really like the eclectic team that has been gathered to form the Ballistic Cowboys.
May 26, 2017
It's guess I am confused on how a mutual agreement results in there being blame for one party.
So seven years ago Charlie and Ghost had a 'no strings, no heartbreak' affair while Ghost was on a leave. Both knew the score. Fast forward to present day and Charlie and Ghost are thrown together during a suspenseful time. Of course there are loose ends from their affair that were left hanging and the reason why? Charlie feels Ghost broke her heart and she can't trust him. She made no efforts to keep in touch with him because of their agreement and then blames him when he didn't keep in touch with her either.
Even worse, Ghost feels he is in the wrong for breaking her heart. WTF. I'm all for a scorned woman, but this one is just childish and petty. She is in the wrong and makes no apologies for it. Shaking my head at this nonsense.
So seven years ago Charlie and Ghost had a 'no strings, no heartbreak' affair while Ghost was on a leave. Both knew the score. Fast forward to present day and Charlie and Ghost are thrown together during a suspenseful time. Of course there are loose ends from their affair that were left hanging and the reason why? Charlie feels Ghost broke her heart and she can't trust him. She made no efforts to keep in touch with him because of their agreement and then blames him when he didn't keep in touch with her either.
Even worse, Ghost feels he is in the wrong for breaking her heart. WTF. I'm all for a scorned woman, but this one is just childish and petty. She is in the wrong and makes no apologies for it. Shaking my head at this nonsense.
June 5, 2017
A Hot Mess
"Hot Combat" has a rock solid plot premise and character development is adequate but the writing itself is lackluster at best. Not to pile on, but some of the mixed up homophones set my teeth on edge, i.e. led vs lead, and boarders vs borders. Then there was "assimilated" when "assembled" was called for. And don't get me started on the mixed metaphors: "fumbled the pitch and struck out" and "I love you from the tips of my toes to the very last breath". Huh? Shouldn't an author do some basic research for a novel? No self-respecting horse lover or westerner would ever describe a pony or horse as "chocolate brown with a cream-colored mane and tail." The proper description is "liver chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail." Call me a nitpicker if you will but the reader cannot be expected to ignore such glaring errors in a published work.
"Hot Combat" has a rock solid plot premise and character development is adequate but the writing itself is lackluster at best. Not to pile on, but some of the mixed up homophones set my teeth on edge, i.e. led vs lead, and boarders vs borders. Then there was "assimilated" when "assembled" was called for. And don't get me started on the mixed metaphors: "fumbled the pitch and struck out" and "I love you from the tips of my toes to the very last breath". Huh? Shouldn't an author do some basic research for a novel? No self-respecting horse lover or westerner would ever describe a pony or horse as "chocolate brown with a cream-colored mane and tail." The proper description is "liver chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail." Call me a nitpicker if you will but the reader cannot be expected to ignore such glaring errors in a published work.
December 22, 2023
Good start to this series. Lit action, hate, love, sorrow, redemption. Young love, lost time of love because no one communicates. All assume they know what is best for the other. A little girl lost years of knowing her dad. Our special Forces men get hurt, love, save others and maybe themselves.
Ghost is back in his hometown working or the DHS while recovering from an injury on his last seal deployment. Charlie has been raising her 6 year old daughter alone. She moonlights for the DHS looking for things that are not right. She has a big secret. She us discovered by the group she is watching and her life is in danger. Ghost is assigned to protect her and her daughter. He discovers his client is his past , lost love, will he and his DHS team be able to save them ?
Ghost is back in his hometown working or the DHS while recovering from an injury on his last seal deployment. Charlie has been raising her 6 year old daughter alone. She moonlights for the DHS looking for things that are not right. She has a big secret. She us discovered by the group she is watching and her life is in danger. Ghost is assigned to protect her and her daughter. He discovers his client is his past , lost love, will he and his DHS team be able to save them ?
August 16, 2017
Jon aka Ghost is being tapped by Homeland Security to help out in his Wyoming town where he has not been in years..When he gets there he is assigned to a woman that was threatened while looking for info on the terrorist cells in their town.when he gets to her house he is stunned to find it is the one woman he has always loved and left, Charlie..than her daughter Lolly shows up to see how the big tall man is...He finds out that she is his daughter....But he is there to protect them and keep them from harm...Can he do that and can he bring his family together? A fast paced thriller of a ride!
December 20, 2019
Well done start to a domestic terror series. A multi- service task force is tracking home- grown rowdies trying to avenge government wrongs. Jon Caspar is an injured SEAL recovering in his hometown. It has changed and so has the girl he fell for as a teenager. She has a surprise for him. She is also tougher than he realizes and when the terror threats hit home, they will both battle to save their town and their loved ones.
May 9, 2017
Hot Combat by Elle James
A fast moving military romance. A couple with a second chance.
Villainous threats abound in the small town in Wyoming where harsh economic conditions have laid waste to the residents.
Hope, love, and resourcefulness are the key. True love conquers all? Yes, in romance it certainly does.
A fast moving military romance. A couple with a second chance.
Villainous threats abound in the small town in Wyoming where harsh economic conditions have laid waste to the residents.
Hope, love, and resourcefulness are the key. True love conquers all? Yes, in romance it certainly does.
May 31, 2021
I enjoyed this intriguing romance. I voluntarily chose to review this story and I've given it a 4.5* rating.. This is not for the under 18 readers because of the violence and sexual content. This story pulled me in fast and kept making me turn the pages. I hope I can find the next in the series because I'd like to know how it turns out.
February 8, 2017
Every time I pick up a book by this author, I know I am in for a treat. I loved tagging along through Ghost and Charlie's story. Their chemistry is amazing, and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. Definitely recommend this book!
October 23, 2023
Ghost and Charlie
Ghost was healing from a wound. They had reassigned him to his home town. He would stay a week then back to his SEAL team His assignment was Charlie an old girlfriend. Someone was threatening Charlie
What a story! I was drawn in from the start.
Ghost was healing from a wound. They had reassigned him to his home town. He would stay a week then back to his SEAL team His assignment was Charlie an old girlfriend. Someone was threatening Charlie
What a story! I was drawn in from the start.
February 5, 2017
Great
I loved this book. Very suspenseful and intriguing. It even made me happy cry. Great story. Charlie, Ghost and Lottie make a cute family.
I loved this book. Very suspenseful and intriguing. It even made me happy cry. Great story. Charlie, Ghost and Lottie make a cute family.
May 7, 2017
Quick fun read.
July 6, 2017
Really good book - great suspense. Like the whole team and the story within a story. Can't wait to read more.
August 8, 2020
Hot Cimbat
Great start to "Ballistic Cowboy" series. If you enjoy home town romance with naval seals helping to keep the peace. Pick up this series and enjoy.
Great start to "Ballistic Cowboy" series. If you enjoy home town romance with naval seals helping to keep the peace. Pick up this series and enjoy.
June 26, 2021
Hot combat by Elle James
As always Elle James did not disappoint. The story had a little bit of everything. I can’t wait to see what is up next.
As always Elle James did not disappoint. The story had a little bit of everything. I can’t wait to see what is up next.
April 19, 2022
Fantastic book with wonderful characters and amazing action adventure. ❤️❤️📚👍
April 26, 2022
Book you take off and are creeped out by strange messages then the action, love and second chances happen! Everything I love!
November 7, 2023
Cool Cowboys
This is a sweet story I can relate to, my cousin had a similar experience and situation. I really appreciate this book.
This is a sweet story I can relate to, my cousin had a similar experience and situation. I really appreciate this book.
October 10, 2024
Good Read
What an interesting book I didn’t know what to expect when I first opened it. I was not disappointed. The characters are sharp. The story is good. It has a nice flow.
What an interesting book I didn’t know what to expect when I first opened it. I was not disappointed. The characters are sharp. The story is good. It has a nice flow.
November 21, 2024
I enjoyed this book and series, but would not be interested in reading it again.
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February 21, 2017received 5 stars @Harlequin.com (as of 2/21/17). To view review, go HERE> http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.ht...
Miniseries: Ballistic Cowboys
Miniseries: Ballistic Cowboys
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