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DEA FAST #1
Falling Fast
She’s putting herself in harm’s way to make a difference.
Having grown up in a household of elite, overprotective male Marines, Charlie Colebrook is savoring her hard won independence and avoiding a serious relationship that could tie her down. As a computer forensics expert for the DEA she might be a civilian rather than an agent, but she’s far from helpless, and she’s hungry to prove herself. So when her boss asks her to take on a dangerous undercover assignment that could expose the key money launderer for the biggest, and most lethal drug cartel in the Western hemisphere, Charlie seizes her chance. There’s just one catch: the man assigned as her partner is the only man she wants…and he won’t settle for less than everything she has to give.
Now he’s the only one who stands between her and a ruthless cartel.
DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez has tried like hell to ignore the explosive chemistry he has with Charlie. Not simply because she’s his best friend’s sister—but because with her, he wants all or nothing. As a member of the agency’s elite FAST Bravo unit, he’s got the skill and experience to keep her safe. Now that he’s assigned to protect her on this op, he’ll do it at all costs, even if she tempts him as no other woman ever has. But the final op tests them both to the breaking point, and when things go to hell, it will take everything they’ve got to survive the deadly trap set for them.
Having grown up in a household of elite, overprotective male Marines, Charlie Colebrook is savoring her hard won independence and avoiding a serious relationship that could tie her down. As a computer forensics expert for the DEA she might be a civilian rather than an agent, but she’s far from helpless, and she’s hungry to prove herself. So when her boss asks her to take on a dangerous undercover assignment that could expose the key money launderer for the biggest, and most lethal drug cartel in the Western hemisphere, Charlie seizes her chance. There’s just one catch: the man assigned as her partner is the only man she wants…and he won’t settle for less than everything she has to give.
Now he’s the only one who stands between her and a ruthless cartel.
DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez has tried like hell to ignore the explosive chemistry he has with Charlie. Not simply because she’s his best friend’s sister—but because with her, he wants all or nothing. As a member of the agency’s elite FAST Bravo unit, he’s got the skill and experience to keep her safe. Now that he’s assigned to protect her on this op, he’ll do it at all costs, even if she tempts him as no other woman ever has. But the final op tests them both to the breaking point, and when things go to hell, it will take everything they’ve got to survive the deadly trap set for them.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 22, 2017
953 people are currently reading
1133 people want to read
About the author
Kaylea Cross
99 books1,802 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
February 17, 2017
OMG, loved Jamie and Charlie's story :-)
December 31, 2018
This isn't normally my genre, so my review may be a little bit harsher than it should be. I do enjoy a good crime/thriller that contains an element of romance, but this was a pure romance novel and not a very good one at that.
To prolong the suspense of whether the two main characters will end up together or not, Jaimie wants a serious relationship because Charlie is his best friends baby sister and you don't endanger a friendship over a casual fling. So far so good. Charlie on the other hand doesn't want a relationship, as her father never got over the loss of his beloved wife and she doesn't want to risk this kind of pain by getting too involved. Sounds reasonable. I'm sure battling the depression of loneliness with an endless stream of meaningless sexual encounters is a healthy way to avoid the pain of lost love.
Not only does that make very little sense, but the first approx. 70% of the book consists basically of Jaimie wanting a serious relationship, imagining sexual encounters with Charlie while masturbating and hating on Dean (the suspect) because the sleaze basically does the same thing (the masturbating not the relationship part). Charlie on the other hand is sexually frustrated since Jaimie won't sleep with her without a relationship, fights her growing attachment and worries about the time when she will be alone with Dean in his office to steal data from his computer, because she fears what he will do without Jaimie's protection.
At that moment I realized that Charlie and Dean are actually perfect for each other. Sure, he is bottom-feeding scum that believes any woman on this planet will sleep with him because she hopes for a payout and if they don't he simply drugs and rapes them. But, he really only wants a fling and the danger of forming an emotional attachment is slim to nothing. Should a car hit him, Charlie would probably only be annoyed because she has to spend time looking for the next sex toy.
Up until the last third the book is quite simply incredibly boring, because aside of the worrying and sleazy ogling by Dean during lunches nothing whatsoever happens, aside from the incredibly unbelievable scenario that someone would hire a hacker from the dark-net to help with his computer problems and not becoming suspicious when she solves them in a matter of minutes.
Since this is possible the worst planned mission in the history of fictitious missions everything of course goes wrong. You'd think that this is the part where the story finally picked up and you were basically on the edge of your seat with suspense. Personally, I started skimming. It was quite obvious that the author knows absolutely nothing about computers and even less about tactical missions. The whole last part was basically one Hollywood B-movie cliche chasing another. At one point the villain calls the construction company of his current project to deliver cement or something so that he can pitch our heroes into a pit and lay the foundation of the building on them. What, were they out of sharks with lasers mounted on their heads? The heroes basically get rescued because the construction company calls in the delivery.
In the end Charlie falls in love with Jaimie because he gave her a hand job leaving her wanting more. Classy.
In summary, the love story is horrible, the plot is worse and there is no chance in hell that I will ever read another book by this author.
To prolong the suspense of whether the two main characters will end up together or not, Jaimie wants a serious relationship because Charlie is his best friends baby sister and you don't endanger a friendship over a casual fling. So far so good. Charlie on the other hand doesn't want a relationship, as her father never got over the loss of his beloved wife and she doesn't want to risk this kind of pain by getting too involved. Sounds reasonable. I'm sure battling the depression of loneliness with an endless stream of meaningless sexual encounters is a healthy way to avoid the pain of lost love.
Not only does that make very little sense, but the first approx. 70% of the book consists basically of Jaimie wanting a serious relationship, imagining sexual encounters with Charlie while masturbating and hating on Dean (the suspect) because the sleaze basically does the same thing (the masturbating not the relationship part). Charlie on the other hand is sexually frustrated since Jaimie won't sleep with her without a relationship, fights her growing attachment and worries about the time when she will be alone with Dean in his office to steal data from his computer, because she fears what he will do without Jaimie's protection.
At that moment I realized that Charlie and Dean are actually perfect for each other. Sure, he is bottom-feeding scum that believes any woman on this planet will sleep with him because she hopes for a payout and if they don't he simply drugs and rapes them. But, he really only wants a fling and the danger of forming an emotional attachment is slim to nothing. Should a car hit him, Charlie would probably only be annoyed because she has to spend time looking for the next sex toy.
Up until the last third the book is quite simply incredibly boring, because aside of the worrying and sleazy ogling by Dean during lunches nothing whatsoever happens, aside from the incredibly unbelievable scenario that someone would hire a hacker from the dark-net to help with his computer problems and not becoming suspicious when she solves them in a matter of minutes.
Since this is possible the worst planned mission in the history of fictitious missions everything of course goes wrong. You'd think that this is the part where the story finally picked up and you were basically on the edge of your seat with suspense. Personally, I started skimming. It was quite obvious that the author knows absolutely nothing about computers and even less about tactical missions. The whole last part was basically one Hollywood B-movie cliche chasing another. At one point the villain calls the construction company of his current project to deliver cement or something so that he can pitch our heroes into a pit and lay the foundation of the building on them. What, were they out of sharks with lasers mounted on their heads? The heroes basically get rescued because the construction company calls in the delivery.
In the end Charlie falls in love with Jaimie because he gave her a hand job leaving her wanting more. Classy.
In summary, the love story is horrible, the plot is worse and there is no chance in hell that I will ever read another book by this author.
May 22, 2018
I've has Kaylea Cross on my "to read" shelf forever. She has published lots of great sounding, well reviewed books, but I've just not found time to start her. Well, I got the ARC for Fast Fury and decided that now was the time and the DEA FAST Series was the place to start. The series just happens to start immediately after Easton's Claim and contains a lot of information about the Coldbrook Siblings as Charlie is the youngest and only girl. As this is my first book by Kaylea Cross, and it started on the heels of another book, I was sorta lost at first. That didn't last long as the plot developed and the romance heated, really heated, up.
Charlotte, "Charlie', Coldbrook is a DEA Analyst and has been tapped to go undercover with DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez who is her brother's, Easton's, best friend. These two have been circling each other for awhile and Jamie wants more than a fling. Charlie is enjoying her freedom from three alpha brothers and an overprotective dad, a fling is all she wants. "Falling Fast" is their story and a really good one too.
Charlie is no shy, retiring maid, so when she is asked to go undercover, she takes a moment then goes for it even though she knows it will be dangerous, really dangerous, but vitally important in the war against drugs. The target is a money launderer for the biggest drug cartel and Jamie will act as her protection for the op.
There are many reasons why Jamie Rodriguez has tried desperately like hell to ignore the sexual chemistry he has with Charlie. It just hasn't been possible. Now he is assigned to watch over her as a ruthless animal gets close to her. It takes all of Jamie's willpower not the take this guy apart. This op depends on Charlie being able to get close to this guy and Jamie has to protect her while she does that. He never bargained for the op to put them so close together or endanger their lives.
3 1/2-Stars
Charlotte, "Charlie', Coldbrook is a DEA Analyst and has been tapped to go undercover with DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez who is her brother's, Easton's, best friend. These two have been circling each other for awhile and Jamie wants more than a fling. Charlie is enjoying her freedom from three alpha brothers and an overprotective dad, a fling is all she wants. "Falling Fast" is their story and a really good one too.
Charlie is no shy, retiring maid, so when she is asked to go undercover, she takes a moment then goes for it even though she knows it will be dangerous, really dangerous, but vitally important in the war against drugs. The target is a money launderer for the biggest drug cartel and Jamie will act as her protection for the op.
There are many reasons why Jamie Rodriguez has tried desperately like hell to ignore the sexual chemistry he has with Charlie. It just hasn't been possible. Now he is assigned to watch over her as a ruthless animal gets close to her. It takes all of Jamie's willpower not the take this guy apart. This op depends on Charlie being able to get close to this guy and Jamie has to protect her while she does that. He never bargained for the op to put them so close together or endanger their lives.
3 1/2-Stars
Want to read
January 3, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/3/2018)! 💝
She’s putting herself in harm’s way to make a difference.
Having grown up in a household of elite, overprotective male Marines, Charlie Colebrook is savoring her hard won independence and avoiding a serious relationship that could tie her down. As a computer forensics expert for the DEA she might be a civilian rather than an agent, but she’s far from helpless, and she’s hungry to prove herself. So when her boss asks her to take on a dangerous undercover assignment that could expose the key money launderer for the biggest—and most lethal—drug cartel in the Western hemisphere, Charlie seizes her chance. There’s just one catch: the man assigned as her partner is the only man she wants…and he’s unwilling to settle for less than everything she has to give.
Now he’s the only one who stands between her and a ruthless cartel.
DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez has tried like hell to ignore the explosive chemistry he has with Charlie. Not simply because she’s his best friend’s sister—but because with her, he wants all or nothing. As a member of the agency’s elite FAST Bravo unit, he’s got the skill and experience to keep her safe. Now that he’s assigned to protect her on this op, he’ll do it at all costs, even if she tempts him as no other woman ever has. But the final op tests them both to the breaking point, and when things go to hell, it will take everything they’ve got to survive the deadly trap set for them.
She’s putting herself in harm’s way to make a difference.
Having grown up in a household of elite, overprotective male Marines, Charlie Colebrook is savoring her hard won independence and avoiding a serious relationship that could tie her down. As a computer forensics expert for the DEA she might be a civilian rather than an agent, but she’s far from helpless, and she’s hungry to prove herself. So when her boss asks her to take on a dangerous undercover assignment that could expose the key money launderer for the biggest—and most lethal—drug cartel in the Western hemisphere, Charlie seizes her chance. There’s just one catch: the man assigned as her partner is the only man she wants…and he’s unwilling to settle for less than everything she has to give.
Now he’s the only one who stands between her and a ruthless cartel.
DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez has tried like hell to ignore the explosive chemistry he has with Charlie. Not simply because she’s his best friend’s sister—but because with her, he wants all or nothing. As a member of the agency’s elite FAST Bravo unit, he’s got the skill and experience to keep her safe. Now that he’s assigned to protect her on this op, he’ll do it at all costs, even if she tempts him as no other woman ever has. But the final op tests them both to the breaking point, and when things go to hell, it will take everything they’ve got to survive the deadly trap set for them.
March 10, 2018
This wasn't the worst book I've ever read by any means but it also wasn't a joy to read. It says this is the first of the series but either it's set in a bigger world or the author doesn't know how to introduce new characters to readers. There were so many names in the first two chapters that I almost quit because I couldn't keep anyone straight. It wasn't until chapter five that I reliably knew which mc was which since she has traditionally male name and he has a traditionally female one. Both characters got I'm my nerves. Him: it's all or nothing even though we've never even been on a date and I won't explain why I feel that way for most of the book. Her: being in a relationship is lame because I'm independent (apparently no independent women have relationships I was surprised too) and I won't respect your boundaries because I want your dick (sounds super independent right). The chemistry between the two was steamy but the author didn't seem to realize that you don't have to use five adjectives in every sentence of a sex scene. I didn't notice any typos but there were several awkward places and especially annoying was random switches of narrator with no notice...And sometimes the new narrator wasn't even a primary character.
Tldr: decent plot less than decent follow through. No reread wouldn't recommend
Tldr: decent plot less than decent follow through. No reread wouldn't recommend
March 29, 2017
Fast paced, page turning action packed romance.
June 29, 2018
A bit slow in starting, I seriously thought I’d not finish this book, but curiosity got the better of me, so I did manage to finish reading it. It did have a bit of a crime theme, but there was nothing really exciting until towards the end. I won’t be bothering with any more in the series.
November 22, 2023
FALLING FAST brings us a new series following directly after EASTON'S CLAIM where we're introduced to Jamie. I'm excited for a new group of characters and DEA related missions. Both Charlie and Jamie were really enjoyable characters and while it takes Charlie a little bit to warm up to a relationship, I liked that Jamie was all in. I also liked that Jamie appreciated Charlie's strengths and even when he wants to protect her he still trusts her to take care of herself and have his back on a mission.
I'm a sucker for an undercover book so I liked that aspect of the story; I thought the mission would linger longer but this book actually only covers a few days. While things were resolved with the money launderer I assume we'll be seeing more of the cartel based on the ending. I'm also really looking forward to Taylor and Logan's book next because I loved the brief interaction we got to see.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Connected Series:
1. Titanium Security
2. Hostage Rescue Team
3. Colebrook Siblings
4. DEA FAST
5. Vengeance
I'm a sucker for an undercover book so I liked that aspect of the story; I thought the mission would linger longer but this book actually only covers a few days. While things were resolved with the money launderer I assume we'll be seeing more of the cartel based on the ending. I'm also really looking forward to Taylor and Logan's book next because I loved the brief interaction we got to see.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Connected Series:
1. Titanium Security
2. Hostage Rescue Team
3. Colebrook Siblings
4. DEA FAST
5. Vengeance
December 3, 2018
A good fast paced read but...
Somehow I felt like I came into the middle of a series. I had to check to make sure that I was on the first book. All the brothers are married they all have stories that I felt I was missing. I also just didn’t get the romance between Jamie and Charlie. I mean supposedly it had been there but I didn’t feel it. I didn’t get why Jamie was so OTT for Charlie. That’s why I felt something was missing? Did these people come from another series?
Anyway the suspense was good. It kept me on my toes, Charlie was a little unbelievable as a character but I let it slide. I was entertained for a bit. On the fence if I will continue the series. Just didn’t wow me.
Somehow I felt like I came into the middle of a series. I had to check to make sure that I was on the first book. All the brothers are married they all have stories that I felt I was missing. I also just didn’t get the romance between Jamie and Charlie. I mean supposedly it had been there but I didn’t feel it. I didn’t get why Jamie was so OTT for Charlie. That’s why I felt something was missing? Did these people come from another series?
Anyway the suspense was good. It kept me on my toes, Charlie was a little unbelievable as a character but I let it slide. I was entertained for a bit. On the fence if I will continue the series. Just didn’t wow me.
September 25, 2018
The start of this book assumes you have read another series of books which I didn't realise as I am very OCD about reading or watching things in order. However, I persevered and whilst there are references to things that have happened to Charlie's brothers, plotwise this book stands up pretty well if, like me, you haven't read the previous Colebrook trilogy.
September 23, 2019
3.5/5 The beginning was kind of slow, classical and I was not so fond of Charlie.
The last third of the story sent all flying, litteraly.
A real good action and suspense. The sensuality is also at a high level.
I was kind of surprise d though about the glimpses and little spoilers that were given about Charlie's 3 brothers. And the fact that Charlie and Jamie's story did not begin in this book though it's the first of a series.
The last third of the story sent all flying, litteraly.
A real good action and suspense. The sensuality is also at a high level.
I was kind of surprise d though about the glimpses and little spoilers that were given about Charlie's 3 brothers. And the fact that Charlie and Jamie's story did not begin in this book though it's the first of a series.
November 1, 2017
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Want to read
December 14, 2017 Free from Amazon Kindle 14/12/2017
January 24, 2018
Tension, suspense, Cole is put to the test and Jamie is her protector. The ending ..... I was on tenterhooks, would Baker get his revenge,?
June 4, 2017
3.5 RATING-
June 6, 2019
This book kicks off what looks to be a promising series featuring special agents of the DEA FAST team. In this opening installment, a standoff between DEA agents and a suspect has spread to the Colebrook family's home in Sugar Hollow, Virginia. The beginning of the book is action-packed, and we get to see instant chemistry between computer forensics whiz Charlie Colebrook and DEA agent Jamie Rodriguez.
While it becomes obvious from family conversation that this book is a spin-off of a previous series featuring Charlies's brothers, one can jump right into this book (and this series) without having read about the other Colebrooks. The author smoothly introduces the DEA FAST team and their mission early in the story, and I got sucked right in.
Here's the setup - the DEA needs someone to get into the home of a man suspected of laundering money for a large and dangerous cartel. For that, they need a computer expert. And that's where Charlie comes in. She is assigned to go in undercover to get her hands on the computer this bad guy uses to run his deals. And Jamie is assigned to protect her.
In addition to Charlie's inexperience with these types of missions (which thankfully doesn't get glossed right over), the problem with having these two work together feels real and obvious. One of Charlie's brothers is also a DEA FAST agent, and he's one of Jamie's best friends. The risk of Jamie getting into a relationship with Charlie is therefore quite high. And yet, anyone can see that these two have been drawn to each other since well before the opening action in this story.
Watching these two try to deal with their feelings and also bring down a bad guy makes for satisfying reading. Some of the antics near the end of the story are way over the top, but it's still entertaining. In addition, the author made the pacing of the romance feel realistic. No "Let's have sexy times while the bad guys are looking for us" here, and that's a plus. There's plenty of activity on both the suspense and romance fronts in this book, but they complement rather than compete with each other most of the time.
While it becomes obvious from family conversation that this book is a spin-off of a previous series featuring Charlies's brothers, one can jump right into this book (and this series) without having read about the other Colebrooks. The author smoothly introduces the DEA FAST team and their mission early in the story, and I got sucked right in.
Here's the setup - the DEA needs someone to get into the home of a man suspected of laundering money for a large and dangerous cartel. For that, they need a computer expert. And that's where Charlie comes in. She is assigned to go in undercover to get her hands on the computer this bad guy uses to run his deals. And Jamie is assigned to protect her.
In addition to Charlie's inexperience with these types of missions (which thankfully doesn't get glossed right over), the problem with having these two work together feels real and obvious. One of Charlie's brothers is also a DEA FAST agent, and he's one of Jamie's best friends. The risk of Jamie getting into a relationship with Charlie is therefore quite high. And yet, anyone can see that these two have been drawn to each other since well before the opening action in this story.
Watching these two try to deal with their feelings and also bring down a bad guy makes for satisfying reading. Some of the antics near the end of the story are way over the top, but it's still entertaining. In addition, the author made the pacing of the romance feel realistic. No "Let's have sexy times while the bad guys are looking for us" here, and that's a plus. There's plenty of activity on both the suspense and romance fronts in this book, but they complement rather than compete with each other most of the time.
February 6, 2017
I've read everything by this author and this is by far the best!
This is book 1 of a new series, however...I did notice the beginnings of our H/h story line at the end of Easton's Claim (3 book series covering the 3 Colebrook brothers, Falling Fast is their sister Charlotte Colebrooks story) now, you don't need to read that book for any background as the author covers all the history within this story (the book kind of begins at the end of Easton's Claim) but they are good, so why not. Jamie Rodriguez is a member of the DEA FAST Bravo team and also teammate of Charlotte's brother Easton, the attraction between Jamie (wants an all or nothing relationship with Charlotte) and Charlotte (who wants light & short term fling) burns the pages up from chapter one!! Reasons for the push and pull in the growing attraction is explained in the book, Charlie has to go on a undercover job, to try and crack a cartel, she has the computer skills and the right looks to attract the 'baddie'...but what makes matters worse....her undercover partner/bodyguard will be Jamie! Ha I loved it! The author puts us through every emotion going, Charlie has to trust Jamie, they have to fight together to bring down the cartel but also fight their growing attraction to each other, it's a story that builds and I was so engrossed in the storyline (concrete bit!) that I didn't realise my plane had landed lol
If you love your romance with suspense and military theme this is for you! I didn't want the book to end, and I can't wait to read about the rest of the DEA FAST bravo team.
I mentioned at beginning, that this is book 1 of a series, just to let you know Falling Fast can be read as a standalone, ends with a HEA (as all good romance books should) and no cliffhanger but we are introduced to some of the rest of the DEA team who will hopefully have books down the line
This is book 1 of a new series, however...I did notice the beginnings of our H/h story line at the end of Easton's Claim (3 book series covering the 3 Colebrook brothers, Falling Fast is their sister Charlotte Colebrooks story) now, you don't need to read that book for any background as the author covers all the history within this story (the book kind of begins at the end of Easton's Claim) but they are good, so why not. Jamie Rodriguez is a member of the DEA FAST Bravo team and also teammate of Charlotte's brother Easton, the attraction between Jamie (wants an all or nothing relationship with Charlotte) and Charlotte (who wants light & short term fling) burns the pages up from chapter one!! Reasons for the push and pull in the growing attraction is explained in the book, Charlie has to go on a undercover job, to try and crack a cartel, she has the computer skills and the right looks to attract the 'baddie'...but what makes matters worse....her undercover partner/bodyguard will be Jamie! Ha I loved it! The author puts us through every emotion going, Charlie has to trust Jamie, they have to fight together to bring down the cartel but also fight their growing attraction to each other, it's a story that builds and I was so engrossed in the storyline (concrete bit!) that I didn't realise my plane had landed lol
If you love your romance with suspense and military theme this is for you! I didn't want the book to end, and I can't wait to read about the rest of the DEA FAST bravo team.
I mentioned at beginning, that this is book 1 of a series, just to let you know Falling Fast can be read as a standalone, ends with a HEA (as all good romance books should) and no cliffhanger but we are introduced to some of the rest of the DEA team who will hopefully have books down the line
March 23, 2017
Kaylea Cross does manage a pretty good transition (read: hooks) from the Colebrook siblings trilogy by setting up the unresolved tension between Jamie Rodriguez and Charlie Colebrook. But I'm treading cautiously here, even though the start of the DEA Fast series has made me wonder about several aspects of the RS genre that Cross tends to overuse.
I do have some questions that are yet unanswered, or at least some questions that this books can't quite answer yet. Thus far, this series hasn't shown itself to be any different (apart from the focus on drugs and cartels as opposed to the terrorist/hostage angle) from the previous HRT series and her characters do, at the moment, look rather interchangeable, as are the high stakes situations and the burst of explosive danger that they tend to get themselves in before one party will realise his/her feelings. The writing style is classic Cross as well: with particular phrases that do find themselves repeated through her series of books, as is the similarity it bears to Katie Reus's writing.
But I must admit that the premise for the pairing did seem rather ridiculous to me: hiring an untrained civilian for undercover, then going undercover with Jamie as a 'neighbour' seemed far-fetched, as is the role-reversal option of having the woman being the commitment-phobic one.
Maybe this series will grow on me...but who knows?
I do have some questions that are yet unanswered, or at least some questions that this books can't quite answer yet. Thus far, this series hasn't shown itself to be any different (apart from the focus on drugs and cartels as opposed to the terrorist/hostage angle) from the previous HRT series and her characters do, at the moment, look rather interchangeable, as are the high stakes situations and the burst of explosive danger that they tend to get themselves in before one party will realise his/her feelings. The writing style is classic Cross as well: with particular phrases that do find themselves repeated through her series of books, as is the similarity it bears to Katie Reus's writing.
But I must admit that the premise for the pairing did seem rather ridiculous to me: hiring an untrained civilian for undercover, then going undercover with Jamie as a 'neighbour' seemed far-fetched, as is the role-reversal option of having the woman being the commitment-phobic one.
Maybe this series will grow on me...but who knows?
September 25, 2020
This first book in the new DEA Fast series was thoroughly enjoyable to read, and it kept me hooked from the very start although there was a slow build up to the action. But when it came, it had me on the edge of my seat, and honestly, I really didn't think these characters were going to survive.
As for the two main characters Charlie and Jamie, they were both extremely likable, and I thought they worked well together. They also shared a spark although I didn't necessarily feel it as much through parts of this story as I did during Easton's Claim.
But overall, I thought this was a great start to the series, and I'm looking forward to reading more of these stories in the future. I'd also happily recommend this story to others. Especially if you're a fan of the Hostage Rescue Series or enjoyed the Colebrook Siblings series, which both Charlie and Jamie feature in.
As for the two main characters Charlie and Jamie, they were both extremely likable, and I thought they worked well together. They also shared a spark although I didn't necessarily feel it as much through parts of this story as I did during Easton's Claim.
But overall, I thought this was a great start to the series, and I'm looking forward to reading more of these stories in the future. I'd also happily recommend this story to others. Especially if you're a fan of the Hostage Rescue Series or enjoyed the Colebrook Siblings series, which both Charlie and Jamie feature in.
July 19, 2018
Love love love
I really enjoyed this book and the way that Kaylea Cross writes makes the book easy to read. I mean this as a compliment as she doesn't try to complicate things with too many plot twists that have your head spinning you don't know which way is up.
There is action, adventure, romance and friendship in this book. Along with some creepy ass criminal. Oh almost forgot hot 🔥🔥men and women, with some hot and steamy sex scenes that will leave you panting.
Hope you enjoy as much as I did.
I really enjoyed this book and the way that Kaylea Cross writes makes the book easy to read. I mean this as a compliment as she doesn't try to complicate things with too many plot twists that have your head spinning you don't know which way is up.
There is action, adventure, romance and friendship in this book. Along with some creepy ass criminal. Oh almost forgot hot 🔥🔥men and women, with some hot and steamy sex scenes that will leave you panting.
Hope you enjoy as much as I did.
February 26, 2018
Action-packed romantic thriller
I enjoyed Falling Fast, an action-packed romantic thriller involving the DEA, undercover agents, a drug cartel, and including an intense romance.
I enjoyed Falling Fast, an action-packed romantic thriller involving the DEA, undercover agents, a drug cartel, and including an intense romance.
September 30, 2018
DNF at 68% because an implausible plot became absolutely ridiculous. I wasted far too much time hoping it would get better only to be thoroughly disappointed.
June 8, 2019
Great read! It pulls you in and keeps you wanting more!
October 13, 2017
The purpose of Thrifty Thursday is to read a book which was free (at some point).
Kindle freebie on September 7, 2017 (currently still free at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as of writing this post)
I have enjoyed other series by this author and my freebies which are the first in the series are some of the best ones I get. They let me get a taste and figure out if I want to read the rest of the series. Plus this is a favorite genre, so this was easy to choose.
Falling Fast is fast. The action is steady and suspenseful, as expected. The characters seemed likable enough but I really wish more time had been spent developing them and their connections. I suspect this is a spin-off series from another and we should already know them. Except I don't. It's short and just a bit more could have been focused on the character relationships. The romance happened very quickly with what seemed like a role reversal. The male is committed and the female isn't ready for it.
The main mystery is getting evidence on a guy believed to be laundering money for a drug cartel. The DEA plans an operation which makes some sense but the contingency plans are not adequate. The suspense of things going sideways is a major worry and suspense. Considering what a scumbag the guy is, it's hard to see how their plan would work. I do appreciate that Charlie (female agent) has some smarts and doesn't just expect to be rescued. But the fact she and her male partner, Jamie, went into the operation with such limited backup borders on TSTL. The action scenes are realistically brutal, as are the mixed results achieved.
I probably will read more in the DEA FAST series , after checking out any earlier books for more background. There are already three more books available (which all seem to be about 30% longer than this first book). This was a fast read and I liked it. With extra length to develop things more, I think I would have loved it.
May 6, 2017
Kaylea Cross - Falling Fast - (DEA FAST Series - Book 1)
Charlie Colebrook was in the Colebrook Siblings Trilogy and in the 3rd book of that series, we found out how tough she really is. She is sometimes defiant, can take care of herself and knows how to handle a gun. After all her 3 brothers and her father are all ex-Marines so she had to be tough. In book 3 of the Colebrook Siblings we were introduced to the DEA Fast Team. Her brother, Easton is on the DEA Fast Team and his friend from the same team helped the Colebrook’s when a drug kingpin came looking for their drugs, ‘in the Colebrook barn’. Long story but worth reading.
The friend that helped the Colebrook’s is DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriquez. During the crisis referenced above, Charlie and Jamie felt a strong chemistry between them. Of course, Jamie was ignoring the rule of “don’t mess with your best friend’s little sister.
She had finally gotten her independence from her brothers and lived in D.C. as a civilian computer analysist for the DEA. With this independence to make her own decision, when her boss asked her to take on an undercover assignment, she naturally said yes. Then she finds out that she will be teamed up with, yes you guessed it, Jamie Rodriquez.
During the undercover job, and as they get closer, Jamie wants everything or nothing. Jamie doesn’t want to make a commitment because she just got her independence. As the assignment starts getting deadly, they both will need to use all they must survive.
Will they get their HEA, will they even survive their assignment or is Charlie’s independence more important?
Charlie Colebrook was in the Colebrook Siblings Trilogy and in the 3rd book of that series, we found out how tough she really is. She is sometimes defiant, can take care of herself and knows how to handle a gun. After all her 3 brothers and her father are all ex-Marines so she had to be tough. In book 3 of the Colebrook Siblings we were introduced to the DEA Fast Team. Her brother, Easton is on the DEA Fast Team and his friend from the same team helped the Colebrook’s when a drug kingpin came looking for their drugs, ‘in the Colebrook barn’. Long story but worth reading.
The friend that helped the Colebrook’s is DEA Special Agent Jamie Rodriquez. During the crisis referenced above, Charlie and Jamie felt a strong chemistry between them. Of course, Jamie was ignoring the rule of “don’t mess with your best friend’s little sister.
She had finally gotten her independence from her brothers and lived in D.C. as a civilian computer analysist for the DEA. With this independence to make her own decision, when her boss asked her to take on an undercover assignment, she naturally said yes. Then she finds out that she will be teamed up with, yes you guessed it, Jamie Rodriquez.
During the undercover job, and as they get closer, Jamie wants everything or nothing. Jamie doesn’t want to make a commitment because she just got her independence. As the assignment starts getting deadly, they both will need to use all they must survive.
Will they get their HEA, will they even survive their assignment or is Charlie’s independence more important?
September 8, 2019
4 Stars —
Falling Fast
is an adult romantic suspense thriller by Kaylea Cross and the 1st book in her
DEA FAST
series.
Packed with plenty of action, suspense and romance, Cross’s DEA FAST series focuses on the members of one of the DEA’s Foreign-Deployed Advisory and Support Teams: FAST Bravo. The series begins with computer forensics expert Charlie Colebrook and Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez whom, if you’ve read the author’s Colebrook Siblings trilogy, you’re already familiar with. Charlie and Jamie are tasked with working together on a dangerous undercover operation to bring down a big-time money launderer for one of the most powerful and ruthless cartels in the Western hemisphere. Their mission: copy the files on the target’s heavily encrypted personal laptop, which he keeps with him at all times and is currently in a safe at his vacation house in the Hamptons.
Falling Fast was a well-written, action-packed, steamy romance that will leave you wanting more…literally. The ending felt a bit abrupt to me but since I’ve read the author’s other works, I know that she will continue the relationship between Charlie and Jamie as the series progresses. I look forward to reading her next book, Fast Kill!
Packed with plenty of action, suspense and romance, Cross’s DEA FAST series focuses on the members of one of the DEA’s Foreign-Deployed Advisory and Support Teams: FAST Bravo. The series begins with computer forensics expert Charlie Colebrook and Special Agent Jamie Rodriguez whom, if you’ve read the author’s Colebrook Siblings trilogy, you’re already familiar with. Charlie and Jamie are tasked with working together on a dangerous undercover operation to bring down a big-time money launderer for one of the most powerful and ruthless cartels in the Western hemisphere. Their mission: copy the files on the target’s heavily encrypted personal laptop, which he keeps with him at all times and is currently in a safe at his vacation house in the Hamptons.
Falling Fast was a well-written, action-packed, steamy romance that will leave you wanting more…literally. The ending felt a bit abrupt to me but since I’ve read the author’s other works, I know that she will continue the relationship between Charlie and Jamie as the series progresses. I look forward to reading her next book, Fast Kill!
January 31, 2018
After growing up with a family of overprotective Marines, Charlie is happy to have a civilian desk job. But when her job as a computer forensics expert for the DEA makes her a good person for an undercover assignment, she’s glad for the opportunity to prove she can do more. The assignment is to expose a huge drug cartel through their money launderer. Charlie’s computer skills and looks make her the kind of person this man wants, so she is perfect for this job. The downside to the assignment is her partner, Jamie. He is her brother’s best friend and the one man she wants. But he’s an all or nothing kind of guy and she’s not ready for that commitment. But now they have to work together and she has to trust him completely. She can do that, as far as trusting his skills are concerned, but can she trust herself to not fall for him even more?
Even though this book had a slow start, I really liked the story and characters. I loved that Jamie was so highly skilled. It was easy to believe he could handle any situation. Which he did more than once. I was impressed with Charlie. The fact that she was a strong, capable woman became obvious as the undercover assignment progressed.
This promises to be a good series so don’t miss it. Especially if you like military romantic suspense.
Even though this book had a slow start, I really liked the story and characters. I loved that Jamie was so highly skilled. It was easy to believe he could handle any situation. Which he did more than once. I was impressed with Charlie. The fact that she was a strong, capable woman became obvious as the undercover assignment progressed.
This promises to be a good series so don’t miss it. Especially if you like military romantic suspense.
November 15, 2020
2.5 stars
I'm surprised the first page was not an introduction or something like that. It just jump into an action and many characters are just pop into the plot story and that's make me confused for a while whether I pick the correct book or not (it is the first book of the series)
Charlotte (Charlie) self proclaimed as an independent woman, he grew up with three brothers and a father which all of them in military. She doesn't want a fully committed relationship while she drooling over Jamie, one of her brother's best buddy.
Jamie wants all in or nothing with Charlie, he doesn't want just casual fling with her. That is the main conflict between this main couple. Truthfully, I don't fully understand why independent woman cannot go into committed relationship.
I think the romance sometimes overshadowed the suspense. I get it that Charlie is untrained field agent, she's an analyst, but the way she handles herself in front of the suspect is ridiculous. At least she could be calm and hide her nervousness. It totally ruined the ops.
Sorry not a great one to start the new series. Need to read a not too weak heroine and a great suspense + romance books.
I'm surprised the first page was not an introduction or something like that. It just jump into an action and many characters are just pop into the plot story and that's make me confused for a while whether I pick the correct book or not (it is the first book of the series)
Charlotte (Charlie) self proclaimed as an independent woman, he grew up with three brothers and a father which all of them in military. She doesn't want a fully committed relationship while she drooling over Jamie, one of her brother's best buddy.
Jamie wants all in or nothing with Charlie, he doesn't want just casual fling with her. That is the main conflict between this main couple. Truthfully, I don't fully understand why independent woman cannot go into committed relationship.
I think the romance sometimes overshadowed the suspense. I get it that Charlie is untrained field agent, she's an analyst, but the way she handles herself in front of the suspect is ridiculous. At least she could be calm and hide her nervousness. It totally ruined the ops.
Sorry not a great one to start the new series. Need to read a not too weak heroine and a great suspense + romance books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2020
Not so great. Charlie is terrible undercover & it's no wonder Dean easily notice something is night right with her. Then there Jamie pushing Charlie to settle down with him when she doesn't want to, & like all fictional character the woman gives in. How annoying!!! I hate how strong independant woman turn to mush over men, especially alpha men. Thank god this doesn't happen in real life or I would really pity the woman & become annoyed. Women fought hard to show they can be equal to men but to turn into a weakling over men, they are giving the rest of the women a bad rep.
The only good part is Wyatt & Grits scenes, & Easton, Logan & Taylor in the truck waiting for some action & them going into action to rescue Charlie & Jamie when they get into trouble.
Then there's all the talking; annoying!! They are in a middle of the fire fight & they are gossiping instead of taking down the bad guys. If they didn't talk so much they would have gotten Dean sooner & before Dean was executed by his own pilot.
I DID NOT LIKE THIS BOOK!!!
The only good part is Wyatt & Grits scenes, & Easton, Logan & Taylor in the truck waiting for some action & them going into action to rescue Charlie & Jamie when they get into trouble.
Then there's all the talking; annoying!! They are in a middle of the fire fight & they are gossiping instead of taking down the bad guys. If they didn't talk so much they would have gotten Dean sooner & before Dean was executed by his own pilot.
I DID NOT LIKE THIS BOOK!!!
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