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Man on a Mission #9
Black Ops Warrior
An alpha hero falls for the woman he's sworn to take down in Amelia Autin's latest Man on a Mission romance!
Help her. That's all Niall Jones can think to do when his target almost panics. Undercover operative Niall is tracking suspected traitor Dr. Savannah Whitman, but when she comes under threat, he can't help but swoop in to save her. And the sparks that fly between the secret agent and Savannah are anything but covert.
After a personal tragedy, Savannah decided to depart her high-security defense job to live life to the fullest. But she never expected to meet a sexy, mysterious stranger—or for her very safety to be under siege…and enigmatic Niall is the only one who can protect her!
Help her. That's all Niall Jones can think to do when his target almost panics. Undercover operative Niall is tracking suspected traitor Dr. Savannah Whitman, but when she comes under threat, he can't help but swoop in to save her. And the sparks that fly between the secret agent and Savannah are anything but covert.
After a personal tragedy, Savannah decided to depart her high-security defense job to live life to the fullest. But she never expected to meet a sexy, mysterious stranger—or for her very safety to be under siege…and enigmatic Niall is the only one who can protect her!
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 16, 2017
10 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Autin
43 books56 followersAward-winning author Amelia Autin is an inveterate reader who can’t bear to put a good book down…or part with it. She’s a long-time member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), and served three years as its treasurer. Amelia lost the love of her life in 2021 to the ravages of ALS. She currently resides in quiet Vail, Arizona, where she can see the stars at night and has a “million dollar view” of the Rincon Mountains from her back yard.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 29, 2017
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
While the plot is predictable, I'm loving H/h of this book the most out of all the series.
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
While the plot is predictable, I'm loving H/h of this book the most out of all the series.
November 6, 2017
Oh, my. I have been waiting for Niall's story, and I have to say it was worth every minute of that wait. It opens with Niall stalking his prey - Savannah. He's been given the mission of discovering whether she is a traitor and the reader can see his resolve in doing what must be done. There is also immediate insight into his abilities as an undercover operative as "he assumed a role, he became the role."
I loved both Savannah and Niall. They are a perfect match for each other. Niall is cynical and suspicious of everyone, while Savannah is trusting and sees the good in those around her. Both have a strong sense of honor and bone-deep love of country which have made them who they are. Both also have an awesome sense of humor, and I loved how they would use it to lighten some of the more intense moments. Their teasing banter is fun but is also used to hide some of their vulnerabilities.
I loved the development of their relationship. Their first meeting set the tone right away. Niall's protectiveness kicks in when he witnesses her panic, and he knows just how to help her through it. He is also attracted to her, which is a complication he is not happy about. I loved Savannah's first reaction to Niall. First, the relief when he pulls her out of her panic attack, then the "holy cow" moment when she gets a good look at him. There is a brief moment of awkwardness because though she is confident when dealing with men in her work life, in social situations she isn't. But something about Niall puts her at ease, which opens her up to the attraction she feels for him. I loved her decision to include him in her "live life to the fullest" mantra. I loved their dinner together and his immense relief when he realized that she is innocent of the suspicions leveled at her. The chemistry between them was hot, but there was already something deeper growing. Savannah's reaction to his scar was moving, and the effect it had on Niall was immediate and scared him to death.
I ached for Niall because he quickly realized that Savannah was the one woman he could see being a part of his life permanently, but all he could see were the obstacles keeping them apart. The biggest one was the deception of why he was there to start with and his certainty that it would be unforgivable in her eyes. Every day they grew closer, and every day the pain of their inevitable parting got stronger. I loved how Savannah's love for Niall made her so attuned to him. Even after he confessed to part of who he is, she could see that he was still holding back. She accepted that he had secrets and tried to make him see that they did not affect her love for him, even after she found out the truth. Their reunion at the end was awesome. I loved how Savannah's presence so completely dumbfounded him. Her explanation of (and obvious pride in) how she tracked him down was great, as was her determination to fight for what she wanted. I loved how she shot down all of his concerns and his happiness as he realized just what it meant.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. The prologue set the scene with a premise that was realistic in today's world and hooked me right into the story. I liked that Savannah's innocence was quickly established without diminishing the intensity of the danger. The rapid escalation of the attempts to take Savannah and to eliminate Niall showed the desperation of the man behind it. While we know who he is early on, the identity of the "boots on the ground" players remain shrouded in mystery. There were several possibilities, and I could never quite decide which I thought it was. The final confrontation was intense, and my heart was in my throat as Savannah willingly made herself vulnerable. I loved Savannah's description of Niall as the "guided missile in the form of her warrior lover" as he came to her rescue.
I loved how the setting was as much a part of the story as any of the characters. The descriptions of the various sights were vivid and made me feel as though I was right there with Niall and Savannah. I especially liked the description of Savannah's combination of awe and disappointment at the Great Wall, as she had to deal with the effects of the crowds on her joy of being there. Having had similar feelings at other places, it made Savannah that much more of a real person to me.
I loved how this book touched on other books in the series, updating the lives of previous characters. I loved D'Arcy's involvement and his unspoken support of Niall's feelings for Savannah. I also enjoyed the evidence of the closeness of the Jones family and their support of each other. I laughed out loud at Niall's story of how he and his brother stole their father's car and Savannah's reaction to it. I also loved Keira's unquestioning assistance when Niall needed it and Shane's part in getting Savannah and Niall back together.
*I received an ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
I loved both Savannah and Niall. They are a perfect match for each other. Niall is cynical and suspicious of everyone, while Savannah is trusting and sees the good in those around her. Both have a strong sense of honor and bone-deep love of country which have made them who they are. Both also have an awesome sense of humor, and I loved how they would use it to lighten some of the more intense moments. Their teasing banter is fun but is also used to hide some of their vulnerabilities.
I loved the development of their relationship. Their first meeting set the tone right away. Niall's protectiveness kicks in when he witnesses her panic, and he knows just how to help her through it. He is also attracted to her, which is a complication he is not happy about. I loved Savannah's first reaction to Niall. First, the relief when he pulls her out of her panic attack, then the "holy cow" moment when she gets a good look at him. There is a brief moment of awkwardness because though she is confident when dealing with men in her work life, in social situations she isn't. But something about Niall puts her at ease, which opens her up to the attraction she feels for him. I loved her decision to include him in her "live life to the fullest" mantra. I loved their dinner together and his immense relief when he realized that she is innocent of the suspicions leveled at her. The chemistry between them was hot, but there was already something deeper growing. Savannah's reaction to his scar was moving, and the effect it had on Niall was immediate and scared him to death.
I ached for Niall because he quickly realized that Savannah was the one woman he could see being a part of his life permanently, but all he could see were the obstacles keeping them apart. The biggest one was the deception of why he was there to start with and his certainty that it would be unforgivable in her eyes. Every day they grew closer, and every day the pain of their inevitable parting got stronger. I loved how Savannah's love for Niall made her so attuned to him. Even after he confessed to part of who he is, she could see that he was still holding back. She accepted that he had secrets and tried to make him see that they did not affect her love for him, even after she found out the truth. Their reunion at the end was awesome. I loved how Savannah's presence so completely dumbfounded him. Her explanation of (and obvious pride in) how she tracked him down was great, as was her determination to fight for what she wanted. I loved how she shot down all of his concerns and his happiness as he realized just what it meant.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. The prologue set the scene with a premise that was realistic in today's world and hooked me right into the story. I liked that Savannah's innocence was quickly established without diminishing the intensity of the danger. The rapid escalation of the attempts to take Savannah and to eliminate Niall showed the desperation of the man behind it. While we know who he is early on, the identity of the "boots on the ground" players remain shrouded in mystery. There were several possibilities, and I could never quite decide which I thought it was. The final confrontation was intense, and my heart was in my throat as Savannah willingly made herself vulnerable. I loved Savannah's description of Niall as the "guided missile in the form of her warrior lover" as he came to her rescue.
I loved how the setting was as much a part of the story as any of the characters. The descriptions of the various sights were vivid and made me feel as though I was right there with Niall and Savannah. I especially liked the description of Savannah's combination of awe and disappointment at the Great Wall, as she had to deal with the effects of the crowds on her joy of being there. Having had similar feelings at other places, it made Savannah that much more of a real person to me.
I loved how this book touched on other books in the series, updating the lives of previous characters. I loved D'Arcy's involvement and his unspoken support of Niall's feelings for Savannah. I also enjoyed the evidence of the closeness of the Jones family and their support of each other. I laughed out loud at Niall's story of how he and his brother stole their father's car and Savannah's reaction to it. I also loved Keira's unquestioning assistance when Niall needed it and Shane's part in getting Savannah and Niall back together.
*I received an ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
November 22, 2017
While I have thoroughly enjoyed all the Man on a Mission stories, there was something about the hero of the tenth book that made him a favorite. Niall Jones is a dedicated agent whose work has him telling untruths and pretending. But when he interacts with Dr. Savannah Whitman, keeping his emotions from becoming involved is one of the hardest things he has ever done. As days go by and these two become more connected, the couple must ask themselves what is most important for future happiness and are they willing to try and make it happen. I immediately became caught up in the clever plot, and whether a scene contained threats or was only emotional, my captivation increased. BLACK OPS WARRIOR is engagingly imaginative because Amelia Autin has a talent for creating believable developments, where the reaction of characters is backed by genuine feelings and the circumstances are convincingly depicted.
For his latest undercover mission, Niall Jones is intently watching a woman who might become a traitor to the country that he has sworn to protect. Her previous job working with a defense contractor has left Dr. Savannah Whitman privy to sensitive government information, and there are corrupt individuals who would really like access to these facts. Now it is up to Niall to follow her around China while she sightsees, making certain nothing she knows is passed on to someone else.
Since Niall is trained to be aware of even the smallest detail, he cannot keep from noticing various personal aspects pertaining to Savannah yet wishes he did not. When he makes contact with her, it is to gain her trust and perhaps get some pertinent disclosures from her. But when it becomes apparent that the data she knows is wanted by an undetermined faction, Niall must remain close to Savannah or the critical material and even her life could be at risk.
Much of the story takes place in China, and Amelia Autin certainly took me on a colorful trip around this country. As Savannah and Niall take in the sights, I also got to “see” the many unique wonders that can only be found there. When it comes to the mystery of what individuals were actually carrying out the unlawful orders, the author kept me in the dark for most of the story. Subtle clues are given, yet just when I thought all was figured out, something would occur and change my mind. I like when not everything is known until the story almost concludes. The suspense definitely kept building with each new threat, and I never knew when something perilous would crop up. BLACK OPS WARRIOR skillfully balances the danger with emotional conflicts.
The relationship of Savannah and Niall is very complicated. He is undercover and must keep many secrets, while she is openly honest. The more time they spend together, the more guilt he feels, but duty forces him to remain silent. I felt how much it pained him when he could not tell her the truth, as he has quite a few inner discussions with himself. He is such an honorable man in all ways, and Savannah is just principled. When these two are intimate, the encounters are steamy yet also caringly tender. I had a wonderful time watching this couple discover so many new things about each other plus themselves.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
For his latest undercover mission, Niall Jones is intently watching a woman who might become a traitor to the country that he has sworn to protect. Her previous job working with a defense contractor has left Dr. Savannah Whitman privy to sensitive government information, and there are corrupt individuals who would really like access to these facts. Now it is up to Niall to follow her around China while she sightsees, making certain nothing she knows is passed on to someone else.
Since Niall is trained to be aware of even the smallest detail, he cannot keep from noticing various personal aspects pertaining to Savannah yet wishes he did not. When he makes contact with her, it is to gain her trust and perhaps get some pertinent disclosures from her. But when it becomes apparent that the data she knows is wanted by an undetermined faction, Niall must remain close to Savannah or the critical material and even her life could be at risk.
Much of the story takes place in China, and Amelia Autin certainly took me on a colorful trip around this country. As Savannah and Niall take in the sights, I also got to “see” the many unique wonders that can only be found there. When it comes to the mystery of what individuals were actually carrying out the unlawful orders, the author kept me in the dark for most of the story. Subtle clues are given, yet just when I thought all was figured out, something would occur and change my mind. I like when not everything is known until the story almost concludes. The suspense definitely kept building with each new threat, and I never knew when something perilous would crop up. BLACK OPS WARRIOR skillfully balances the danger with emotional conflicts.
The relationship of Savannah and Niall is very complicated. He is undercover and must keep many secrets, while she is openly honest. The more time they spend together, the more guilt he feels, but duty forces him to remain silent. I felt how much it pained him when he could not tell her the truth, as he has quite a few inner discussions with himself. He is such an honorable man in all ways, and Savannah is just principled. When these two are intimate, the encounters are steamy yet also caringly tender. I had a wonderful time watching this couple discover so many new things about each other plus themselves.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
December 1, 2017
Danger lurks around every corner in Amelia Autin's latest action-packed read! With a magical glimpse into the history and culture of China, the Man On A Mission series is back to lead us heart first into Niall's story! The intrigue comes alive on the first page and continues throughout the book as they try to put the pieces all together to figure out who the bad guys are. The characters have not only a steamy sexual chemistry, but also a really fun banter between them that makes you smile as you enjoy it. The plot was fairly well developed, with a little drag here and there, but overall a well told story that left us with that delightful happily ever after that we love so much!
Undercover operative Niall Jones has one goal in mind when he goes on his latest mission ... eliminate the threat! It doesn't take him long to realize that the intel he received on the suspect can't possibly be true when the start of a panic attack leads him to step in and rescue her and see her true nature fairly quickly in the game. When danger rears it's ugly head, he has to figure out a way to keep her safe without triggering her suspicion as to why he's there.
After suffering a loss, Savannah Whitman decided life was too short to work all of the time and quit her secret clearance job to travel around the world. She doesn't know how she lucked into meeting this handsome man so quickly on her trip to China, but she's thanking her lucky stars! When strange things start to happen around her, Niall convinces her she's in danger and that he's the only one that can keep her safe ... but when she discovers he's keeping secrets, will she be able to lay it all on the line and trust in the man that is stealing her heart?
Undercover operative Niall Jones has one goal in mind when he goes on his latest mission ... eliminate the threat! It doesn't take him long to realize that the intel he received on the suspect can't possibly be true when the start of a panic attack leads him to step in and rescue her and see her true nature fairly quickly in the game. When danger rears it's ugly head, he has to figure out a way to keep her safe without triggering her suspicion as to why he's there.
After suffering a loss, Savannah Whitman decided life was too short to work all of the time and quit her secret clearance job to travel around the world. She doesn't know how she lucked into meeting this handsome man so quickly on her trip to China, but she's thanking her lucky stars! When strange things start to happen around her, Niall convinces her she's in danger and that he's the only one that can keep her safe ... but when she discovers he's keeping secrets, will she be able to lay it all on the line and trust in the man that is stealing her heart?
October 27, 2017
Niall Jones is undercover to determine whether Dr. Savannah Whitman is a traitor who is a security risk to his country. Amid the backdrop of a fifteen-day land tour and river cruise through Northern China, he quickly realizes she's not the risk, but is at risk from fellow passengers on the cruise who want to kidnap her for the knowledge she has. The trip turns into a whodunit as try to figure out who is after her and why. Their chemistry is hot and their relationship is growing, but can it withstand all the lies Niall is keeping?The author keeps the story moving at a fast pace, while taking you along for the trip. This book has some tie-ins with her previous Man on a Mission titles, but easily can be a stand alone read.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2017
I LOVED Black Ops Warrior as I've loved all of the Man on a Mission series books! This one didn't disappoint! It was VERY difficult to put down! (going to work etc was interrupting my reading/LOL)
Niall is SO sexy!!!! I love it when I can read a book and just FEEL the chemistry like it's a tangible thing. SO exciting!! And I don't why but I always love a heroine with a super high IQ like Savannah has but I think it's so cool!
This book was different too in that there were many descriptions about scenery and landmarks to visit in China. I know next to nothing about China and it was fascinating to learn quite a few things about the touristy side and beauty of the country.
I HIGHLY recommend this book and ALL of the Man on a Mission books! They are all very well-written, exciting, captivating, "can't put it down" books!!
October 20, 2017
Black Ops Warrior
Amelia Autin
This book should come with a warning! Certain parts should be read in a room that is ‘so cold you can hang meat in it’ or you are in danger of melting!
What a wonderful development of Niall and Savannah characters as to their faults to strengths. They are two of my favorite and I love how it takes both of them together to evolve to the strongest they can be.
Who are the threats? Well good luck in trying to figure that out. It’s...oh they’re the ones, ...no, they’re the ones, ...but wait it could be them. She teases you in the best way and in the end it is a fabulous read.
I received an ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
Amelia Autin
This book should come with a warning! Certain parts should be read in a room that is ‘so cold you can hang meat in it’ or you are in danger of melting!
What a wonderful development of Niall and Savannah characters as to their faults to strengths. They are two of my favorite and I love how it takes both of them together to evolve to the strongest they can be.
Who are the threats? Well good luck in trying to figure that out. It’s...oh they’re the ones, ...no, they’re the ones, ...but wait it could be them. She teases you in the best way and in the end it is a fabulous read.
I received an ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
December 12, 2017
Amelia Autin surely knows how to weave the words together to a story that will mesmerize your mind and hook you from the first page. Black Ops Warrior is at the same time sweetly adorable, steamingly sensual, and increasingly intense romantic suspense story that had me up reading it till the wee hours of the morning, I just could not put it down until I got to the very satisfying end.
Niall Jones and Savannah Whitman were exceptional hero and heroine with their smarts, capabilities, and the seamless, effortless teamwork, that came naturally to them. Their vulnerabilities and secrets gave them realistic characterizations, the burning feelings towards each other, so quickly igniting in their minds and hearts, made them easy to connect with, relate to, and likable.
The setting they were in while so romantic and picturesque put their budding relationship to a difficult start. I admired their ability to understand the limits, the secrets, the half-truths they were able to share because of their careers. Most information was on the need to know basis, and often they didn't need to know, putting trust and confidence to a test.
I adored the connection between them. The bond and attraction was a palpable force, it was believable and true, there was no question of their feelings or their devotion to each other.
The danger and threat are constant and slowly but surely building up the moment. There was very much of an Agatha Christie type of the atmosphere in the air on the cruise, and I loved it! All the scenery was painted with a detailed brush, giving the reader a chance to see the exotic places in their mind's eyes.
Niall and Savannah won my heart with their sensitive sides, while impressed immensely with their capabilities to hold their own in a fight for their lives, for the justice, and to protect their country and its secrets.
From sizzling hot romance to fierce and savage suspense the story captured my mind, a fantastic ending to the mini-series!
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Niall Jones and Savannah Whitman were exceptional hero and heroine with their smarts, capabilities, and the seamless, effortless teamwork, that came naturally to them. Their vulnerabilities and secrets gave them realistic characterizations, the burning feelings towards each other, so quickly igniting in their minds and hearts, made them easy to connect with, relate to, and likable.
The setting they were in while so romantic and picturesque put their budding relationship to a difficult start. I admired their ability to understand the limits, the secrets, the half-truths they were able to share because of their careers. Most information was on the need to know basis, and often they didn't need to know, putting trust and confidence to a test.
I adored the connection between them. The bond and attraction was a palpable force, it was believable and true, there was no question of their feelings or their devotion to each other.
The danger and threat are constant and slowly but surely building up the moment. There was very much of an Agatha Christie type of the atmosphere in the air on the cruise, and I loved it! All the scenery was painted with a detailed brush, giving the reader a chance to see the exotic places in their mind's eyes.
Niall and Savannah won my heart with their sensitive sides, while impressed immensely with their capabilities to hold their own in a fight for their lives, for the justice, and to protect their country and its secrets.
From sizzling hot romance to fierce and savage suspense the story captured my mind, a fantastic ending to the mini-series!
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
November 20, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. There is plenty of intrigue and action in the story and the relationship between Niall and Savannah is very entertaining. I loved the setting for this book. After reading the descriptions of the various locations, I am adding them to my travel bucket list!
December 27, 2017
Niall Jones is on a mission to find out what government secrets Dr. Savannah Whitman knows, meanwhile Savannah, is a brilliant engineer. When these two clash there are fireworks. But is Savannah innocent of espionage? And could Niall have the guts to kill her if he finds her guilty? Will his emotions for her get the better of him? Amelia Autin weaves a compelling, intense and edge of your seat romantic thriller in Black Ops Warrior. Her intelligent characters fill the pages with engaging scenes which grab your attention instantly and doesn't let you go until the end. Detailed writing and a fast-paced plot with believable conflict makes for a satisfying read!
Highly Recommended
4.5 Stars
June 19, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Amelia Autin, but it won't be the last. I liked her book, Black Ops Warrior, because it's a romantic suspense story. It had a likable heroine and hero, fun secondary characters, the action took place on a once in a lifetime vacation trip, and it had a potential kidnapping mystery to solve.
November 20, 2017
This book was really long and it was more of a romance than suspense/intrigue.
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December 2, 2017Miniseries: Man on a Mission
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