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HORNET #5
Reckless Honor
Jean-Luc Cavalier has only ever cared about three sex, booze, and the dangerous missions he undertakes with HORNET. Laissez les bons temps rouler is more than a Mardi Gras motto—it’s the way he lives his life. But all that changes the night he rescues Dr. Claire Oliver from deadly mercenaries. Now he can’t get the gorgeous blond virologist out of his head. Claire is running for her life. Someone wants her antiviral research and they’re willing to kill anyone and everyone to get it. She has no one to turn to except a womanizing Cajun with a silver tongue and devastating smile. But when an ultra-deadly virus decimates the Niger Delta, saving Claire and her research becomes the least of HORNET’s concerns. The virus has all the markings of a bioweapon and Nigeria is only the testing grounds... Each book in the HORNET series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series
Book #1 SEAL of Honor
Book #2 Honor Reclaimed
Book #3 Broken Honor
Book #4 Code of Honor
Book #5 Reckless Honor
Series
Book #1 SEAL of Honor
Book #2 Honor Reclaimed
Book #3 Broken Honor
Book #4 Code of Honor
Book #5 Reckless Honor
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2018
102 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Burrows
47 books1,146 followersTonya Burrows wrote her first romance at age thirteen and hasn't put down her pen since. Originally from a small town in Western New York, she suffers from a bad case of wanderlust and is still searching for a place to call home. She shares her adventures with her husband, two adorable doodles, and Scribble the Writer Cat.
When she's not writing about hunky military heroes and their courageous K9s, Tonya can be found watching either true crime or baking shows while snuggled up on the couch with her furbabies. She also enjoys traveling—especially long road trips to see the National Parks.
To learn more about Tonya and her books, please visit her website. She's also on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @authortonyaburrows.
When she's not writing about hunky military heroes and their courageous K9s, Tonya can be found watching either true crime or baking shows while snuggled up on the couch with her furbabies. She also enjoys traveling—especially long road trips to see the National Parks.
To learn more about Tonya and her books, please visit her website. She's also on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @authortonyaburrows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 15, 2018
Asi que ... Estoy enamorada. De Jean - Luc. De Claire. De la historia. De todos los personajes de esta saga, no hay ni una sola cosa de estas novelas que no me tenga completamente encantada.
Quizas extrañe que tuviera un par mas de escenas romanticas entre Claire y Jean - Luc pero eso puede ser debido a que mi cursileria alcanza cotas altisimas cuando pienso en esta pareja y tambien porque esta historia ha sido una de las que mas queria leer este año.
Reckless Honor es una novela adictiva, muy entretenida, interesante y con una trama que me resulto diferente y original dentro de esta tematica, ademas la autora es una de las mejores que conozco describiendo escenas de accion y suspense, realmente te llena el cuerpo de adrenalina mientras lees, casi parece que estas dentro de el libro por lo muy realista y asombrosa que es su pluma.
Aunque me encantan todos los miembros de este equipo, tengo que admitir que Jean - Luc era el que mas me llamaba la atencion y quizas por eso temia leer este libro y que me decepcionara o que no fuera lo que esperaba, pero por suerte no fue el caso, esta lectura fue inmejorable y eso es mucho decir debido a que tenia mis expectativas por el cielo, sinceramente la recomiendo mucho, no solo esta quinta parte sino toda la serie, vale mucho la pena y si eres fan de este genero estoy segura de que te dejara con ganas de mas.
Yo antes de terminar el año estoy segura de que hare una relectura de los cinco libros.
Y menudo final! me dejo loca de ganas por leer el siguiente y eso que aun no se quienes seran los protagonistas, Ian y la chica nueva?? o Marcus y una nueva protagonista??.
Solo deseo que ha esta saga le queden muchos libros, no quiero despedirme de estos personajes aun, si de mi depende, Tonya Burrows puede escribir 20 novelas mas, que yo seguro las leo, realmente se ha convertido en una de mis escritoras favoritas.
En conclusion, un libro impresionante, te costara dejar de leer y te sera muuuy dificil, por no decir imposible olvidar esta historia, es de esas que se hacen inolvidables.
P. D : Claire y Jean - Luc acaban de entrar en mi lista de mejores parejas, me dejaron absolutamente enamorada!! Yo tambien quiero un cajun.
4.75 Estrellas!!
January 4, 2020
4.5 STARS
PopSugar 2019: 34. Un libro con un título de dos palabras
Este es mi libro favorito y obvio tenía que ser de mi personaje favorito Jean Luc.
Desde el principio me conquistó es que es bien PERFECTITO!!! Te derrite con su acento cajún . Es un womanizer, funny alivianado es la parte alegre del equipo a parte que es inteligente y muy sexy.
Necesito un Jean Luc en mi vida RIGHT NOW!!
Claire también me gustó mucho, tenía miedo que no me agradara tanto y no estuviera a la altura de mi Jean Luc y lo hiciera sufrir y NOOO ella es perfecta para él además que era linda y los dos eran bien tiernos juntos.
Esta historia tal vez no tuvo tanta acción como los libros anteriores pero lo compensó con la parte romántica y yo feliz, estuvo a la altura del libro de Seth hasta más.
Y tiene un tinte de ciencia ficción y destupía como tipo esas películas donde hay un virus incurable y que se hace epidemia tiene como ese estilo.
Jean Luc solito se merece las cinco estrellas pero yo ando bien picky y por el momento no se las daré al libro.
PopSugar 2019: 34. Un libro con un título de dos palabras
Este es mi libro favorito y obvio tenía que ser de mi personaje favorito Jean Luc.
Desde el principio me conquistó es que es bien PERFECTITO!!! Te derrite con su acento cajún . Es un womanizer, funny alivianado es la parte alegre del equipo a parte que es inteligente y muy sexy.
Necesito un Jean Luc en mi vida RIGHT NOW!!
Claire también me gustó mucho, tenía miedo que no me agradara tanto y no estuviera a la altura de mi Jean Luc y lo hiciera sufrir y NOOO ella es perfecta para él además que era linda y los dos eran bien tiernos juntos.
Esta historia tal vez no tuvo tanta acción como los libros anteriores pero lo compensó con la parte romántica y yo feliz, estuvo a la altura del libro de Seth hasta más.
Y tiene un tinte de ciencia ficción y destupía como tipo esas películas donde hay un virus incurable y que se hace epidemia tiene como ese estilo.
Jean Luc solito se merece las cinco estrellas pero yo ando bien picky y por el momento no se las daré al libro.
April 23, 2018
When the training mission in Martinique went south in the last book, Jean-Luc Cavalier risked his life for Dr. Claire Oliver and told her to run. She was the target of a deadly group determined to steal her ground-breaking research and samples of Akeso, an anti-virus panacea. Trouble is that Claire has done an excellent job of running and hiding, so much so that Jean-Luc has difficulty finding her. That is until an outbreak is reported in Nigeria and he knows she’s most probably in the thick of things.
HORNET is one of my most favorite series for consistency and excitement. From the first page, I’m hooked and my blood pressure elevates from the tension and suspense. It’s always a really good story set in interesting locales and this time is no different. The challenge here was crafting someone to be up for the colorful and free-spirited Jean-Luc and Claire was ideal. She’s smart and fearless underneath a veneer of serenity and good looks. She’s a skilled doctor and definitely well matched with the Cajun. There are many harrowing situations and the science was always at the forefront. I found that element compelling and intriguing. But, most of all, I loved how well these two characters were developed. Before this story, I didn’t take Jean-Luc seriously and boy has my image of him advanced! I loved their relationship.
There’s a lot going on with the team and I could see several more stories teed up, which makes me so, so happy. I loved this book and love this series. Hope it never ends.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
HORNET is one of my most favorite series for consistency and excitement. From the first page, I’m hooked and my blood pressure elevates from the tension and suspense. It’s always a really good story set in interesting locales and this time is no different. The challenge here was crafting someone to be up for the colorful and free-spirited Jean-Luc and Claire was ideal. She’s smart and fearless underneath a veneer of serenity and good looks. She’s a skilled doctor and definitely well matched with the Cajun. There are many harrowing situations and the science was always at the forefront. I found that element compelling and intriguing. But, most of all, I loved how well these two characters were developed. Before this story, I didn’t take Jean-Luc seriously and boy has my image of him advanced! I loved their relationship.
There’s a lot going on with the team and I could see several more stories teed up, which makes me so, so happy. I loved this book and love this series. Hope it never ends.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
April 24, 2018
My latest obsession seems to be the brainiac/nerdy heroine and the sexy/dangerous Hero trope. So when I saw this cover and read the blurp I was hooked. A virologist being targeted for her ground breaking research and the hot for her former CIA turned private hostage and rescue linguist that follows her across the world to keep her safe? Sign me up!
I loved Claire, she was a strong heroine who wasn’t a damsel in distress, needing to be rescued. She found herself in tight spots but she always managed to carry her own weight. And Jean-Luc charmed me right from the start – he definitely lived up to his “Ragin’ Cajun” nickname. The setting of this book was a lot darker than I was expecting. For one, people are dropping like flies and it was a scary but realistic telling of this type of situation happening in the real world. So I get the why of it and if I’m honest, although it got a bit overwhelming at times, it worked for this story and these characters.
I loved meeting the other intriguing members of HORNET, especially Ian, Marcus and Harvard. They are each guys who piqued my interest and I definitely want to delve into their back stories!
This had a ton of running-for-our-lives action, gripping suspense, a truly evil villain and delivered a few heart pounding scares (at least for this reader!) along the way. The romance bit was not OTT but it was pretty instant and both MCs were so compatible that I was just happy to see them find happiness with each other. It didn’t hurt that things always heat up and go zero to sixty when they find themselves alone together :)
I haven’t read any of the previous books but didn’t find any hindrance to enjoying this one. It can definitely be read as a standalone. The ending does leave things open ended regarding the on-going plot and gives a sneak peek at the next book about Marcus (maybe?) but I liked how things were left regarding the MCs in this book.
Death and gore are not usually my things but I’m glad that this one made it to my kindle because aside from some of those sad and sometimes pretty gruesome scenes, this was a really good read. It was sweet at times and heart wrenching at others. I fell for both MCs without much effort. They were characters that were just so in sync even when on the outside they appeared so different. Their romance and chemistry was a living breathing thing between them. If I could change one thing it would be the fact that Jean-Luc needed a little bit of that magic/luck he was always talking about. It seemed he always got the short of the stick when it came to being exposed to the virus, even with Akeso working in his favor. Two times seemed a bit excessive, IMO. I can only imagine the emotional upheaval this could cause a person and even though he’d proven he can take it and then some, I wanted the poor guy to just catch a break. For such an easy going charmer, karma was really taking a whack at him.
Favorite Line:
Who knew a linguist could be such a smooth talker!
Would I recommend?
Yes, this was a bit outside my comfort zone but I ended up loving it anyways. If you like your romance with some explosive heat, your action with a bit more bite, and your suspense with a heavy dose of grit, this series might be the perfect fit.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
I loved Claire, she was a strong heroine who wasn’t a damsel in distress, needing to be rescued. She found herself in tight spots but she always managed to carry her own weight. And Jean-Luc charmed me right from the start – he definitely lived up to his “Ragin’ Cajun” nickname. The setting of this book was a lot darker than I was expecting. For one, people are dropping like flies and it was a scary but realistic telling of this type of situation happening in the real world. So I get the why of it and if I’m honest, although it got a bit overwhelming at times, it worked for this story and these characters.
I loved meeting the other intriguing members of HORNET, especially Ian, Marcus and Harvard. They are each guys who piqued my interest and I definitely want to delve into their back stories!
This had a ton of running-for-our-lives action, gripping suspense, a truly evil villain and delivered a few heart pounding scares (at least for this reader!) along the way. The romance bit was not OTT but it was pretty instant and both MCs were so compatible that I was just happy to see them find happiness with each other. It didn’t hurt that things always heat up and go zero to sixty when they find themselves alone together :)
I haven’t read any of the previous books but didn’t find any hindrance to enjoying this one. It can definitely be read as a standalone. The ending does leave things open ended regarding the on-going plot and gives a sneak peek at the next book about Marcus (maybe?) but I liked how things were left regarding the MCs in this book.
Death and gore are not usually my things but I’m glad that this one made it to my kindle because aside from some of those sad and sometimes pretty gruesome scenes, this was a really good read. It was sweet at times and heart wrenching at others. I fell for both MCs without much effort. They were characters that were just so in sync even when on the outside they appeared so different. Their romance and chemistry was a living breathing thing between them. If I could change one thing it would be the fact that Jean-Luc needed a little bit of that magic/luck he was always talking about. It seemed he always got the short of the stick when it came to being exposed to the virus, even with Akeso working in his favor. Two times seemed a bit excessive, IMO. I can only imagine the emotional upheaval this could cause a person and even though he’d proven he can take it and then some, I wanted the poor guy to just catch a break. For such an easy going charmer, karma was really taking a whack at him.
Favorite Line:
There was a lot about her he didn’t yet know about her, and he couldn’t wait to discover it. He’d study her until he was as fluent in the ways to pleasuring her body as he was in fifteen languages.
Who knew a linguist could be such a smooth talker!
Would I recommend?
Yes, this was a bit outside my comfort zone but I ended up loving it anyways. If you like your romance with some explosive heat, your action with a bit more bite, and your suspense with a heavy dose of grit, this series might be the perfect fit.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
May 31, 2022
Reckless Honor is not exactly meeting the high standard as the previous books in this series. I even feel tad disappointed. I had high hope for Miss Burrows.
The plot consisting too much action and not enough romance. With Jean Luc character as a man whore, surely a lot of possibility can be developed for his romance with Claire.
The romance seems to be rushed and insta. The lenght of the audiobook is almost 11 hours.
3 stars
The plot consisting too much action and not enough romance. With Jean Luc character as a man whore, surely a lot of possibility can be developed for his romance with Claire.
The romance seems to be rushed and insta. The lenght of the audiobook is almost 11 hours.
3 stars
February 2, 2019
Soy tan facilota con este tipo de protagonistas... uffff a las tres estoy babeando.
Me gustó mucho MUCHO, pero no superó al de Jesse. En algunas partes de me hizo aburridillo pero nomas poquito.
Jean Luc mi amor lo amo. Fin.
4.5
Me gustó mucho MUCHO, pero no superó al de Jesse. En algunas partes de me hizo aburridillo pero nomas poquito.
Jean Luc mi amor lo amo. Fin.
4.5
Read
November 30, 2022It's finally time for Jean-Luc! Who's excited?
I adored writing this book, but if you've been following this series from the beginning, you know that Jean-Luc has always been my favorite. He surprised me, though. Under that irreverent playboy shell is a good man with a big heart. I loved seeing him reveal more of it with each chapter!
You really don't want to miss the Ragin' Cajun!
UPDATE: the audiobook just released and it is *chef's kiss*
I adored writing this book, but if you've been following this series from the beginning, you know that Jean-Luc has always been my favorite. He surprised me, though. Under that irreverent playboy shell is a good man with a big heart. I loved seeing him reveal more of it with each chapter!
You really don't want to miss the Ragin' Cajun!
UPDATE: the audiobook just released and it is *chef's kiss*
April 19, 2018
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
It all started in Code of Honor in a hotel bar on Martinique with an off key rendition of "If you like Pina Coladas...". Jean-Luc Cavalier, self proclaimed man-whore, has finally met his soul mate, Dr. Clare Oliver. She shot him down like a ballistic missile hitting a target and he was beyond intrigued. Then the night went south with an armed takeover solely to capture Clare and her research partner, Tiffany. Jean-Luc is seriously injured, but not before he saved Clare. He promised to find her and protect her, but she is on the run from the biotech firm that hired the mercenaries to kidnap her and get her research.
Months later he finds her in Niger Delta region of Nigeria smack in the middle of a deadly virus epidemic. Or rather, she finds him. When this virus looks nothing like anything ever seen before, the fear that this is a bioweapon and Nigeria is a testing ground becomes all too real. The HORNET team will need all the help they can get when Clare and Jean-Luc are taken.
"Reckless Honor" is beyond hot, fast paced and with edge of your seat action. Awesome book. If you are a fan of Susanne Brockmann's Troubleshooter Series, you will love this one too. Watching love em and leave em, Jean-Luc meet Clare and fall helplessly in love with her is a great thing to see. That Clare turns out to have a spine made of steel, brains and guts makes her more than a match for Jean-Luc.
It all started in Code of Honor in a hotel bar on Martinique with an off key rendition of "If you like Pina Coladas...". Jean-Luc Cavalier, self proclaimed man-whore, has finally met his soul mate, Dr. Clare Oliver. She shot him down like a ballistic missile hitting a target and he was beyond intrigued. Then the night went south with an armed takeover solely to capture Clare and her research partner, Tiffany. Jean-Luc is seriously injured, but not before he saved Clare. He promised to find her and protect her, but she is on the run from the biotech firm that hired the mercenaries to kidnap her and get her research.
Months later he finds her in Niger Delta region of Nigeria smack in the middle of a deadly virus epidemic. Or rather, she finds him. When this virus looks nothing like anything ever seen before, the fear that this is a bioweapon and Nigeria is a testing ground becomes all too real. The HORNET team will need all the help they can get when Clare and Jean-Luc are taken.
"Reckless Honor" is beyond hot, fast paced and with edge of your seat action. Awesome book. If you are a fan of Susanne Brockmann's Troubleshooter Series, you will love this one too. Watching love em and leave em, Jean-Luc meet Clare and fall helplessly in love with her is a great thing to see. That Clare turns out to have a spine made of steel, brains and guts makes her more than a match for Jean-Luc.
May 7, 2020
ARC received for review
Jean-Luc chases Dr. Claire to Africa and then they fall in love in the middle of an outbreak of a very, very deadly virus and bad guys trying to take her research and kill everyone. Jean-Luc is all kinds of sexy and perfect for Claire.
Now what stupid thing is he (can't tell you who that'd be a spoiler) about to do now? What bug has crawled up Harvard's arse and died? Will Ian and her hook up? Which one will get the next book?
Jean-Luc chases Dr. Claire to Africa and then they fall in love in the middle of an outbreak of a very, very deadly virus and bad guys trying to take her research and kill everyone. Jean-Luc is all kinds of sexy and perfect for Claire.
Now what stupid thing is he (can't tell you who that'd be a spoiler) about to do now? What bug has crawled up Harvard's arse and died? Will Ian and her hook up? Which one will get the next book?
December 27, 2018
Amo a Jean Luc con la fuerza de los mares, me vuelven loca los tipos como él. Su libro y la continuación de su historia con Claire me han gustado mucho, está lleno de escenarios diferentes, escenas de acción trepidantes y giros inesperados marca de la casa, pero me ha faltado más romance, más escenas juntos... En definitiva, MÁS AMOR. Estoy deseando leer el resto de historias de una serie que recomiendo encarecidamente y que no entiendo que aún nadie se haya planteado llevar a la pequeña pantalla.
March 30, 2018
Jean-Luc Cavalier, like his last name suggests, has been difficult to take seriously in all of Tonya Burrows’s HORNET books I’ve gone through. The voodoo spell on his man bits that had cursed him into celibacy? Jean-Luc the manwhore had always looked like a joke to me and that’s putting it quite kindly. The womanising bastard of a language-expert hasn’t made his mark on me like some other characters in this series have, and I’ll readily admit my own scepticism when the time rolled around for his own story.
But the context in which Burrows has written his and Claire’s story is undeniably irresistible: the threat of a virus in far-flung Nigeria, the high-stakes of biological warfare coming into play? I’m fidgety with excitement. It’s a story that has its roots in the previous book (which I don’t really remember now), so I struggled a little in catching up with a plot that races through a hot-zone and tries to uncover the mystery behind a rapidly-spreading, man-made virus.
There was a bleakness to this that isn’t present in Burrows’s other books and perversely, I found myself liking the head and dankly pervasive atmosphere of the angst and the hopelessness that surrounded the dying camp that Jean-Luc and Claire found themselves in, while the geek in me slurped up every word to do with viruses and mutations. But as with most RS books, this took a suspense of disbelief to get through—the flitting from exotic location to yet another exotic location, the James Bond-esque type of action, the miraculous happenings when you least expect them.
What I wasn’t sold on was Jean-Luc, unfortunately. Not when I couldn’t shake the longstanding idea of him being a self-serving bastard and deem him a credible hero. Mostly the problem I have with manwhore types is this—I will always doubt their ability to commit no matter how special they make out a woman to be, let alone stick to that very one woman despite the extraordinary circumstances that bring them together.
Past the adrenaline rush and the intense emotions deadly situations tend to pull out of people, I couldn’t be convinced that Claire would have been enough for Jean-Luc not when nothing else has made him changed his mind on the ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler’ motto he went by until the threat of violent hemorrhagic death came on him, curse on his dick aside. That he wanted a chance with Claire because the threat of pending death brought the weight of regrets down on him or that she’d helped saved him…well anything less extreme than that wouldn’t have made him change on his own volition otherwise, would it? The suddenness with which Jean-Luc opted for monogamy was beyond unbelievable as a result and I was surprised in fact, that Claire didn’t have the same reservations, the giving, determined doctor that she is.
But Claire’s constant heart-sickness and the pain she felt about her own dilemma concerning the virus and the people she’d left behind made her a heroine laden with her own burdens—so much so that I didn’t see her getting her head past it at all. From her wanting a night to forget to her inexplicable falling in love with Jean-Luc baffled me as well, when most of the book was spent dodging mercenaries, arguing about playing god and figuring their way out of tricky situations with their only connection being the virus and her determination not to let anyone die because of her.
While Claire/Jean-Luc wasn’t quite a pairing I could realistically buy into, Burrows’s writing has always appealed to me nonetheless, which is what keeps me coming back to her HORNET series. The insertion of the rest of the guys is always a boon—the slight focus on Harvard, Ian and Marcus made me want their own stories, yes, these HORNET men nearly unhinged with their own deep issues—and a timely reminder that there’re so many loose threads yet to be tied up, as each one bleeds into the next story.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
But the context in which Burrows has written his and Claire’s story is undeniably irresistible: the threat of a virus in far-flung Nigeria, the high-stakes of biological warfare coming into play? I’m fidgety with excitement. It’s a story that has its roots in the previous book (which I don’t really remember now), so I struggled a little in catching up with a plot that races through a hot-zone and tries to uncover the mystery behind a rapidly-spreading, man-made virus.
There was a bleakness to this that isn’t present in Burrows’s other books and perversely, I found myself liking the head and dankly pervasive atmosphere of the angst and the hopelessness that surrounded the dying camp that Jean-Luc and Claire found themselves in, while the geek in me slurped up every word to do with viruses and mutations. But as with most RS books, this took a suspense of disbelief to get through—the flitting from exotic location to yet another exotic location, the James Bond-esque type of action, the miraculous happenings when you least expect them.
What I wasn’t sold on was Jean-Luc, unfortunately. Not when I couldn’t shake the longstanding idea of him being a self-serving bastard and deem him a credible hero. Mostly the problem I have with manwhore types is this—I will always doubt their ability to commit no matter how special they make out a woman to be, let alone stick to that very one woman despite the extraordinary circumstances that bring them together.
Past the adrenaline rush and the intense emotions deadly situations tend to pull out of people, I couldn’t be convinced that Claire would have been enough for Jean-Luc not when nothing else has made him changed his mind on the ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler’ motto he went by until the threat of violent hemorrhagic death came on him, curse on his dick aside. That he wanted a chance with Claire because the threat of pending death brought the weight of regrets down on him or that she’d helped saved him…well anything less extreme than that wouldn’t have made him change on his own volition otherwise, would it? The suddenness with which Jean-Luc opted for monogamy was beyond unbelievable as a result and I was surprised in fact, that Claire didn’t have the same reservations, the giving, determined doctor that she is.
But Claire’s constant heart-sickness and the pain she felt about her own dilemma concerning the virus and the people she’d left behind made her a heroine laden with her own burdens—so much so that I didn’t see her getting her head past it at all. From her wanting a night to forget to her inexplicable falling in love with Jean-Luc baffled me as well, when most of the book was spent dodging mercenaries, arguing about playing god and figuring their way out of tricky situations with their only connection being the virus and her determination not to let anyone die because of her.
While Claire/Jean-Luc wasn’t quite a pairing I could realistically buy into, Burrows’s writing has always appealed to me nonetheless, which is what keeps me coming back to her HORNET series. The insertion of the rest of the guys is always a boon—the slight focus on Harvard, Ian and Marcus made me want their own stories, yes, these HORNET men nearly unhinged with their own deep issues—and a timely reminder that there’re so many loose threads yet to be tied up, as each one bleeds into the next story.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
May 31, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FIVE-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
This cover continues with the darker, edgier, cold and broody feel. While the covers fit the often darker subjects that Ms. Burrows delves into, they are dramatic but flat visually. Unfortunately, if not for the author, I'm not certain I'd stop to read the synopsis. I think I preferred the bolder but dramatic second edition covers better for their eye-catching abilities.
The synopsis for this fifth book promises a thrill ride into another third-world environment and the dark world of bioterrorism, corruption, and greed. A favorite amongst HORNET readers, Jean-Luc finally gets his chance to shine and charm the ladies. That said... let the good times roll, mon ami!
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Jean-Luc made Claire a promise as she fled Martinique, he'd find her. He'd keep her safe. But she had to be smart, keep herself and her research safe, and survive the unsurvivable as she entered a new, deadly hot zone along Africa's Niger River.
Cursed by a voodoo queen, Jean-Luc lost his charm with the ladies but he's drawn to Claire in a way he'd never been before despite feeling she was way too good for him and he'd never deserve someone like her.
Against orders, Jean-Luc crossed the globe to find Claire, with Marcus in tow as backup. They were fully aware that they risked everything by going in... there was a hot new virus outbreak, hostiles at every turn, and no backup to rely on. And when things went FUBAR, they had to fight for their very lives.
Jean-Luc has always been a fan-favorite character (though my guy still has not been written). Jean-Luc has this casual, easy attitude that seems to be synonymous with the Cajun or Bayou lifestyle. But, deeper down, there are a lot of repressed emotions and issues.
The cast was full, rich, engaging. The chemistry between the lead characters was at a slow burn for quite the time due to circumstances unfavorable to them but you could still feel their attraction and WANT to be MORE to/for one another. Dialogue was entertaining and smart. The interactions were mostly natural and believable.
The plot was dynamic and had plenty of emotional depth. I'm not a big crier and this did not quite get me there, but I did choke up a little in two separate parts. The plot also seems to hint at some history about "my guy" and the ending provides a glimpse into who may be getting their next book... but now my interests were really piqued with Marcus's vow to Lena, as I could not help but think there was some undercurrent of "something" interesting between Raya and "my guy". Then there also seems to be the interesting turn that Harvard is taking. Hmmmm... guess we'll have to wait and see how this all unfolds!
There were conflicts, both between them personally as well as externally. Most were resolved by the end of the book. Some are shown to continue into the next plot. Predictability was low, plus several surprises along the way. The conclusion is solid and left me satisfied.
Overall, I feel this was another fantastic addition to the series.
Emotional, Enjoyable, Exciting.
.
Rating: [R+] ~ Score: 4.55 ~ Stars: 4
A lot of bloodshed & death.
Prolonged and detained suffering from various viral causes.
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
This cover continues with the darker, edgier, cold and broody feel. While the covers fit the often darker subjects that Ms. Burrows delves into, they are dramatic but flat visually. Unfortunately, if not for the author, I'm not certain I'd stop to read the synopsis. I think I preferred the bolder but dramatic second edition covers better for their eye-catching abilities.
The synopsis for this fifth book promises a thrill ride into another third-world environment and the dark world of bioterrorism, corruption, and greed. A favorite amongst HORNET readers, Jean-Luc finally gets his chance to shine and charm the ladies. That said... let the good times roll, mon ami!
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Jean-Luc made Claire a promise as she fled Martinique, he'd find her. He'd keep her safe. But she had to be smart, keep herself and her research safe, and survive the unsurvivable as she entered a new, deadly hot zone along Africa's Niger River.
Cursed by a voodoo queen, Jean-Luc lost his charm with the ladies but he's drawn to Claire in a way he'd never been before despite feeling she was way too good for him and he'd never deserve someone like her.
Against orders, Jean-Luc crossed the globe to find Claire, with Marcus in tow as backup. They were fully aware that they risked everything by going in... there was a hot new virus outbreak, hostiles at every turn, and no backup to rely on. And when things went FUBAR, they had to fight for their very lives.
Jean-Luc has always been a fan-favorite character (though my guy still has not been written). Jean-Luc has this casual, easy attitude that seems to be synonymous with the Cajun or Bayou lifestyle. But, deeper down, there are a lot of repressed emotions and issues.
The cast was full, rich, engaging. The chemistry between the lead characters was at a slow burn for quite the time due to circumstances unfavorable to them but you could still feel their attraction and WANT to be MORE to/for one another. Dialogue was entertaining and smart. The interactions were mostly natural and believable.
The plot was dynamic and had plenty of emotional depth. I'm not a big crier and this did not quite get me there, but I did choke up a little in two separate parts. The plot also seems to hint at some history about "my guy" and the ending provides a glimpse into who may be getting their next book... but now my interests were really piqued with Marcus's vow to Lena, as I could not help but think there was some undercurrent of "something" interesting between Raya and "my guy". Then there also seems to be the interesting turn that Harvard is taking. Hmmmm... guess we'll have to wait and see how this all unfolds!
There were conflicts, both between them personally as well as externally. Most were resolved by the end of the book. Some are shown to continue into the next plot. Predictability was low, plus several surprises along the way. The conclusion is solid and left me satisfied.
Overall, I feel this was another fantastic addition to the series.
Emotional, Enjoyable, Exciting.
.
Rating: [R+] ~ Score: 4.55 ~ Stars: 4
A lot of bloodshed & death.
Prolonged and detained suffering from various viral causes.
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
April 28, 2018
I've been a fan of Jean-Luc since the beginning of this series, he's that kind of fun-loving, irresistible ladies man who you just know would break your heart but you can't help falling for anyway. He's charming, funny and would be great company but he's never been one for sticking around in the past. We saw his first meeting with Claire in the previous book, she is the doctor he helped escape from the hostage situation and she is one of the rare women who turned him down flat which of course makes him want her even more. Ever since the previous book Claire has been on the run from the mercenaries who killed her research partner and who are now after her so they can steal her life's work. Jean-Luc knows she is in trouble and he's determined to find her first so that he can protect her.
This series is getting better with every book and things take an even darker turn in Reckless Honor, much of the story is set in the middle of a hot zone where Claire and her colleagues are trying to save the lives of hundreds of people who have been infected with a deadly virus. Jean-Luc has guessed she'll be there trying to help and he knows the mercenaries after her won't take too long to catch them up but she refuses to walk away when there is a chance she could save lives by staying. I loved how strong Claire was, she was working in horrific circumstances and it would have been easier for her to run away and let someone else deal with it but she cares about her patients and wants to make a difference. She's a lot more serious than Jean-Luc but he brings out a more light hearted side of her and they make a really good match. I think what I liked most was that it wasn't just Jean-Luc walking in and rescuing a damsel in distress, yes Claire is in trouble but she gives as good as she gets and she rescues Jean-Luc as many times as he saves her.
There were some really interesting revelations about a certain HORNET team member in this one that definitely has me curious to see what is going to happen next in this series. I have a feeling some of the characters are going to be in for a bumpy ride but I really want to see them all get their own HEAs.
This series is getting better with every book and things take an even darker turn in Reckless Honor, much of the story is set in the middle of a hot zone where Claire and her colleagues are trying to save the lives of hundreds of people who have been infected with a deadly virus. Jean-Luc has guessed she'll be there trying to help and he knows the mercenaries after her won't take too long to catch them up but she refuses to walk away when there is a chance she could save lives by staying. I loved how strong Claire was, she was working in horrific circumstances and it would have been easier for her to run away and let someone else deal with it but she cares about her patients and wants to make a difference. She's a lot more serious than Jean-Luc but he brings out a more light hearted side of her and they make a really good match. I think what I liked most was that it wasn't just Jean-Luc walking in and rescuing a damsel in distress, yes Claire is in trouble but she gives as good as she gets and she rescues Jean-Luc as many times as he saves her.
There were some really interesting revelations about a certain HORNET team member in this one that definitely has me curious to see what is going to happen next in this series. I have a feeling some of the characters are going to be in for a bumpy ride but I really want to see them all get their own HEAs.
April 24, 2018
We first met Claire in Code of Honor when playboy Jean-Luc took one look at Claire and knew that she was it for him. Unfortunately, that evening her partner was killed, Jean-Luc was injured while rescuing Claire and Claire is on the run from the people who want her research.
Two months later Jean-Luc is healed and is on a mission to find Claire even if it has not been cleared by Hornet. He ends up in Nigeria where he ends up imprisoned and everyone around him is dying from a deadly virus and he is getting sicker by the day. When Claire finds him she brings him to the hospital, but will she be able to find him, and will they be able to stay ahead of the mercenaries who seem to be closing in?
This story is filled with non-stop adventure and suspense and features two strong, honorable and independent characters who will do whatever is necessary to ensure that those around them are protected. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Two months later Jean-Luc is healed and is on a mission to find Claire even if it has not been cleared by Hornet. He ends up in Nigeria where he ends up imprisoned and everyone around him is dying from a deadly virus and he is getting sicker by the day. When Claire finds him she brings him to the hospital, but will she be able to find him, and will they be able to stay ahead of the mercenaries who seem to be closing in?
This story is filled with non-stop adventure and suspense and features two strong, honorable and independent characters who will do whatever is necessary to ensure that those around them are protected. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 29, 2018
No one, and I mean no one, can write better adrenaline-fueled bad-assery than Tonya Burrows! Her heroes are flawed, hot, alpha and, well, badass. In this story, the hard-drinking, women-loving, brilliant linguist and “Ragin Cajun” Jean Luc Cavalier gets his front and center to flex his hero muscles and obtain the redemption he feels he needs but doesn’t deserve…
This book picks up from the end of Code of Honor (HORNET #4); although you do not need to read that book before this one, but you will want to devour that one too! Starting in Nigeria and ending in New Orleans, this HORNET adventure is an over-the-top thrilling explosion of science, sex and a little too-real doomsday scenario. The plot is chilling, vivid and engrossing…..exactly why does someone want Dr. Claire Oliver and her antiviral research so bad that anything goes to get her? Hiring murderous mercenaries to kidnap her? Check. Killing innocent people to flush her out? Check. The level of villain involved in this story is truly the stuff of nightmares! Ah, but the romance - that is the stuff of dreams!
At first blush, Claire and Jean Luc seem like total opposites. The serious, studious virologist versus the laughing, over-sexed HORNET operative. But these two have more in common than you think! Jean Luc hides his hurt from a rough childhood under that booze and sex-soaked facade, because underneath lies a brilliant mind that can pick up languages at the drop of a hat. The CIA had tapped into that and now HORNET is blessed with his skills. And our serious Dr. Oliver has quite the dirty-talking vixen side to her, not to mention strength to spare. I LOVED this couple, with their complexity and many sides. Who couldn’t love a nerdy scientist with a passionate core, and a easy-going hottie who knows 15 languages fluently?
Once again, Tonya Burrows delivers a powerful story that is well-written, well paced and well plotted. In the midst of mayhem, Ms.Burrows can make us chuckle; the many body parts and multitasking line from Jean Luc to Claire regarding…...well, you have to read that! A+ +
This book picks up from the end of Code of Honor (HORNET #4); although you do not need to read that book before this one, but you will want to devour that one too! Starting in Nigeria and ending in New Orleans, this HORNET adventure is an over-the-top thrilling explosion of science, sex and a little too-real doomsday scenario. The plot is chilling, vivid and engrossing…..exactly why does someone want Dr. Claire Oliver and her antiviral research so bad that anything goes to get her? Hiring murderous mercenaries to kidnap her? Check. Killing innocent people to flush her out? Check. The level of villain involved in this story is truly the stuff of nightmares! Ah, but the romance - that is the stuff of dreams!
At first blush, Claire and Jean Luc seem like total opposites. The serious, studious virologist versus the laughing, over-sexed HORNET operative. But these two have more in common than you think! Jean Luc hides his hurt from a rough childhood under that booze and sex-soaked facade, because underneath lies a brilliant mind that can pick up languages at the drop of a hat. The CIA had tapped into that and now HORNET is blessed with his skills. And our serious Dr. Oliver has quite the dirty-talking vixen side to her, not to mention strength to spare. I LOVED this couple, with their complexity and many sides. Who couldn’t love a nerdy scientist with a passionate core, and a easy-going hottie who knows 15 languages fluently?
Once again, Tonya Burrows delivers a powerful story that is well-written, well paced and well plotted. In the midst of mayhem, Ms.Burrows can make us chuckle; the many body parts and multitasking line from Jean Luc to Claire regarding…...well, you have to read that! A+ +
April 1, 2018
**I received a copy of Reckless Honor from Net Galley in exchange for an voluntary and honest review**
Reckless Honor is the fifth book in the Hornet series by Tonya Burrows. I've read three books in her series and even though it was as a stand alone book you can read them in order. But I've been waiting for Jean Luc's story and I wasn't disappointed at all. However, if you read only one book I'd recommend reading Code of Honor as this book picks up where it ends.
Dr. Claire Oliver loves working for Doctors Without Borders (Or Medecins San Frontieres) but when a outbreak takes off like wildfire in the Niger Delta she has to wonders if Akeso, the medicine she and her best friend Tiffany had developed could help save those infected but it hasn't been tested on humans. However, Bioteric and Defion want Akeso and they aren't afraid to kill to get it. But when she needs to go to village to collect samples to find the origin, she doesn't expect to find Jean Luc as a prisoner. But he's been infected by the virus and takes him plus one little survivor back to the hospital. Has she found him in time and will she be able to save him? When Jean takes a turn for the worse will she be able to give him Akeso and save him?
Jean-Luc Cavalier is in Niger with his team mate Marcus Deangelo left without permission after losing Danny in Martinique to find Claire before Bioteric and Defion does. Whether the two men will have a job with Hornet when they get back is iffy. But when he sees Claire at the hospital he knows that she needs to leave even if he doesn't survive. Can two hard headed people survive kidnapping, torture, an evil man wanting to create a new society to find love and keep the Bio Terrorists away from Akeso? Because it going to take the whole Hornet team to save all of them this time.
Reckless Honor reminded me a little like Julie Rowe's Biological Response series with a dash of Outbreak thrown in but I really loved it and give the story 4.5 stars.
Reckless Honor is the fifth book in the Hornet series by Tonya Burrows. I've read three books in her series and even though it was as a stand alone book you can read them in order. But I've been waiting for Jean Luc's story and I wasn't disappointed at all. However, if you read only one book I'd recommend reading Code of Honor as this book picks up where it ends.
Dr. Claire Oliver loves working for Doctors Without Borders (Or Medecins San Frontieres) but when a outbreak takes off like wildfire in the Niger Delta she has to wonders if Akeso, the medicine she and her best friend Tiffany had developed could help save those infected but it hasn't been tested on humans. However, Bioteric and Defion want Akeso and they aren't afraid to kill to get it. But when she needs to go to village to collect samples to find the origin, she doesn't expect to find Jean Luc as a prisoner. But he's been infected by the virus and takes him plus one little survivor back to the hospital. Has she found him in time and will she be able to save him? When Jean takes a turn for the worse will she be able to give him Akeso and save him?
Jean-Luc Cavalier is in Niger with his team mate Marcus Deangelo left without permission after losing Danny in Martinique to find Claire before Bioteric and Defion does. Whether the two men will have a job with Hornet when they get back is iffy. But when he sees Claire at the hospital he knows that she needs to leave even if he doesn't survive. Can two hard headed people survive kidnapping, torture, an evil man wanting to create a new society to find love and keep the Bio Terrorists away from Akeso? Because it going to take the whole Hornet team to save all of them this time.
Reckless Honor reminded me a little like Julie Rowe's Biological Response series with a dash of Outbreak thrown in but I really loved it and give the story 4.5 stars.
May 12, 2019
If you are interested in a textbook case of "colonial gaze" of Africa, then here you go. The first third of the book takes place in Nigeria (I'll talk more later about why I read this far, bc it was for something specific), where Dr. Claire Oliver is helping a friend from medical school try to quell a viral outbreak with a 100% fatality rate in a small village. Bad guys from big Pharma are trying to find her, steal her research, and kill her. The hero Jean-Luc Cavalier is a HORNET operative (This is book 5 in the series, so it's some kind of private mercenary gig, idk) who spends the first third of the book stricken with the virus. Jean-Luc is a self-proclaimed manwhore but saved Claire a few months ago and wants to help her escape the people trying to hurt her. He also thinks that a voodoo priestess from his hometown of New Orleans cursed him with celibacy, so JFC is there a lot to unpack.
Anyways, back to the "colonial gaze": In this book, Nigeria has all of the following stereotypes and more: broken government; people in poverty; rural villages without access to water, food, medicine; bands of warlords; lots of dead Nigerians from the virus; a white savior, etc. Nigeria is just tragic background for Claire's heroic research that might be used to cure the virus. As soon as I knew Jean-Luc was sick, I thought: what are the chances that her research is used to somehow ONLY SAVE HIM?
Verdict: I DNFd as soon as that guess was proven right.
I've been asked for clarification on why she only gives the "cure" to Jean-Luc. Her research has never been tested on humans as medicine. She "thinks" it will cure him and it does, but to give this to the other people in the village would be a reckless act of medical malpractice. THAT LAST PART IS TRUE, but then stick to your fucking guns and don't give it to anyone. But Jean-Luc's friend insists, "I'm his medical proxy and I say do it because he's going to die anyways."
I just can't even.
Link to more on twitter, including screenshots of especially problematic scenes: https://twitter.com/JenReadsRomance/s...
Copied & Pasted from Twitter as part of a project where I'm reading all the 2019 RITA finalists.
Anyways, back to the "colonial gaze": In this book, Nigeria has all of the following stereotypes and more: broken government; people in poverty; rural villages without access to water, food, medicine; bands of warlords; lots of dead Nigerians from the virus; a white savior, etc. Nigeria is just tragic background for Claire's heroic research that might be used to cure the virus. As soon as I knew Jean-Luc was sick, I thought: what are the chances that her research is used to somehow ONLY SAVE HIM?
Verdict: I DNFd as soon as that guess was proven right.
I've been asked for clarification on why she only gives the "cure" to Jean-Luc. Her research has never been tested on humans as medicine. She "thinks" it will cure him and it does, but to give this to the other people in the village would be a reckless act of medical malpractice. THAT LAST PART IS TRUE, but then stick to your fucking guns and don't give it to anyone. But Jean-Luc's friend insists, "I'm his medical proxy and I say do it because he's going to die anyways."
I just can't even.
Link to more on twitter, including screenshots of especially problematic scenes: https://twitter.com/JenReadsRomance/s...
Copied & Pasted from Twitter as part of a project where I'm reading all the 2019 RITA finalists.
April 26, 2018
Having read a couple of this authors books I am always on the look out for them with success once in awhile like this one. Having one of those books been in this series makes this one sweet for sure. When reading about Jean-Luc you can hear the Cajun coming off the pages of this one. Of course it gets even louder when Claire comes into the picture. The heat and the danger combined in this one will curl your toes and have ya pulling your hair out with scrumptious and thrills. The danger is real which makes it real good reading.
April 23, 2018
Romantic suspense with a roller coaster ride of action, and a deadly virus spreading like wildfire. Jean Luc Cavalier is going against his boss and his HORNET teammates and heading out to protect Dr. Claire Oliver on his own. She’s turned his life and heart upside down. He’ll do anything to save and protect her.......even die. Full review to follow on http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com on May 7th.
September 22, 2018
Jean Luc es un personaje que siempre me ha gustado. Su carácter alegre y risueño da ese toque divertido a una serie con grandes dosis de violencia. ¿Me ha gustado su historia? Sí, me ha gustado; sobre todo la primera mitad de la novela me ha encantado por lo bien que la autora ha logrado dar continuidad al libro anterior y porque, aun siendo una trama enrevesada y un poco peliculera, Tonya ha conseguido ponerme los pies en la tierra transmitiendo la sensación agobiante y peligrosa en un hospital de campaña. A esa primera mitad le pondría fácilmente un 9. ¿Entonces, por qué no le doy cinco estrellas? Bueno, no ha terminado de convencerme ciertos giros que ha dado la historia y, para mí, ha ido bajando la intensidad según se acercaba al final. Tengo que destacar el personaje femenino, Clare, que me ha gustado muchísimo.
La autora ha dejado abierta una puerta enorme para seguir con la historia y espero que me sorprenda.
Mi puntuación un 7,5.
La autora ha dejado abierta una puerta enorme para seguir con la historia y espero que me sorprenda.
Mi puntuación un 7,5.
April 11, 2018
I took a risk with this book, as I hadn't read the previous books in the series, but I'm really glad I did! It was a fast-paced medical mystery with lots of action, adventure, and steamy romance. I loved the main characters, and even the bad guys had a lot of drama going on behind the scenes. The story had many layers, which really added depth and excitement to the overall story. The author did a great job of bouncing between POVs, so even though I hadn't read the previous books, I was able to get an idea of the other key players in the plot.
Jean-Luc Cavalier has been trying to find and keep safe the beautiful, feisty doctor he saved from mercenaries two months ago in Martinique. Tracking her down to Nigeria, he has managed to get himself caught, and his captors have perished one-by-one from a mysterious disease. During his escape, he finds himself in the company of the one he's been searching for - Dr. Claire Oliver. Claire has been trying to save a village from a disease that, thus far, has only produced one survivor and killed all the rest. On her quest to find out more about the illness, she is devastated to learn that the man who has stayed in her thoughts for months has become infected. And without a known cure, he has only a week to live. Their relationship cut short before it's even begun, Claire must race against the clock to save the man she has come to love, and possibly save all of humanity along with him.
Jean-Luc is, at heart, a good person. However, he is also a ladies' man who hops from one bed to the other without any inclination to settle down. But when he meets Claire, that all changes, and I really liked seeing his devotion to her. Claire was spunky and genuine, and I loved the intelligence of her character. I don't have a medical background, but I love science, and I enjoyed hearing her talk about the disease in medical terms.
It was very informative and helped solidify her character's role as a doctor/researcher. Even though it took me a bit to fully understand what was going on, due to the story starting out so quickly with not a lot of backstory, I could feel the affection from both of the main characters towards each other. It was really heartwarming, which made Jean-Luc being ill all the more devastating. Their battle for a future that now might no longer exist really kept my heart racing, and I stayed up late finishing it the same night I started it. I had to know how it ended.
This is my first book by this author, but I already know I'll be picking up her next book! She had a great hook at the end that got me chomping at the bit for what happens next. I can't wait!
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Jean-Luc Cavalier has been trying to find and keep safe the beautiful, feisty doctor he saved from mercenaries two months ago in Martinique. Tracking her down to Nigeria, he has managed to get himself caught, and his captors have perished one-by-one from a mysterious disease. During his escape, he finds himself in the company of the one he's been searching for - Dr. Claire Oliver. Claire has been trying to save a village from a disease that, thus far, has only produced one survivor and killed all the rest. On her quest to find out more about the illness, she is devastated to learn that the man who has stayed in her thoughts for months has become infected. And without a known cure, he has only a week to live. Their relationship cut short before it's even begun, Claire must race against the clock to save the man she has come to love, and possibly save all of humanity along with him.
Jean-Luc is, at heart, a good person. However, he is also a ladies' man who hops from one bed to the other without any inclination to settle down. But when he meets Claire, that all changes, and I really liked seeing his devotion to her. Claire was spunky and genuine, and I loved the intelligence of her character. I don't have a medical background, but I love science, and I enjoyed hearing her talk about the disease in medical terms.
It was very informative and helped solidify her character's role as a doctor/researcher. Even though it took me a bit to fully understand what was going on, due to the story starting out so quickly with not a lot of backstory, I could feel the affection from both of the main characters towards each other. It was really heartwarming, which made Jean-Luc being ill all the more devastating. Their battle for a future that now might no longer exist really kept my heart racing, and I stayed up late finishing it the same night I started it. I had to know how it ended.
This is my first book by this author, but I already know I'll be picking up her next book! She had a great hook at the end that got me chomping at the bit for what happens next. I can't wait!
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
April 9, 2018
Review written: April 9, 2018
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
Ho-ly cow! Burrows just breaks the HORNET world wide open in Reckless Honor. This book is a huge turning point in the series and I suspect will either make this series much longer or spawn a spin-off series in short order. Reckless Honor takes the storyline from personal and intimate against a larger backdrop (all the books before this one) and replaces it with an even larger backdrop of which the relationship is just one aspect of a much larger game. This isn't a bad thing, but I did miss the more intimate feel a bit.
I loved how this book blows the world wide open. Suddenly Defion (introduced in Code of Honor) becomes a major player - and we get to see things from some Defion agents' perspective. This is an explosive book and not just because some things explode either. It moves a new storyline forward in a big way and a totally unexpected way.
Jean Luc - the Cajun - is a wonderful character. He's funny and relaxed (except when he isn't) and so irreverent that... Oh wait, that's the old Jean Luc. This Jean Luc is vulnerable and sweet and so in love it hurts. He may have gone AWOL with just Marcus because of a promise, but the real reason is that he is wildly, inescapably in love with Claire. My heart just cried for him as he went through an emotional wringer that punched the stuffing out of him and tore him apart. I loved that Jean Luc even as I hated what happened to him and the realities he was forced to face.
Claire was... good. And she doesn't really change in that regard. She does fall in love with the sexy and struggling Cajun who just wants to protect her from the whole world. She falls so hard and so completely that her efforts at several points are heartbreaking to watch. She may be good, but she is not soft. Claire is tough as nails in her own way and willing to fight for what she believes in as well as the lives of those she loves (and the lives of the rest of the world).
Marcus features a number of times. He is deeply wounded by the death of his best friend Danny at the end of Code of Honor and that wound festers horribly. He's cruel in his pain and clearly not emotionally in a place where he can be considered even remotely level-headed. There is a lot of focus on Harvard as well. The "Kid" is struggling with something I see often in these types of books - he wants to contribute more than he is behind a computer by putting his life on the line like the other members of the team. Problem is, he fails to realize their lives are literally in his hands and they need him and that he contributes far more than he thinks. I liked seeing things from Defion perspectives. Mercedes and Seb are interesting characters who I know we'll see again.
I missed the strong "unit" feeling from previous books but given the major change in the way the story was told, this was inevitable. When HORNET did get fully involved, there was little focus on them as a unit and little movement forward in the changes to the leadership. Harvard's unhappiness was emphasized and the loaners from Tuc were introduced. I'd like to get the new dynamics a little better fleshed out in the next book though to solidify the new structure and the new feeling of unit.
The "ripped from the headlines" plot of Reckless Honor was fast-paced but not so fast there wasn't plenty of time to see events through multiple perspectives. It wasn't some break-neck pace. It was deeply emotional and to some degree introspective and philosophical. But, we never skipped a beat in that introspection. Everything was pushing forward the whole way. On top of that, this was a hopeful book in stark contrast to the deep despair at the end of Code of Honor. I was thrilled to see that.
Reckless Honor only solidified my belief that, for me, Ian's book is going to be the book of the series. Frankly, I can't wait for the next book to see where everything is going.
Speculation and Spoilers: Read at your own risk
No question, I am ready for the next book!
This review is ©April 2018 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
Ho-ly cow! Burrows just breaks the HORNET world wide open in Reckless Honor. This book is a huge turning point in the series and I suspect will either make this series much longer or spawn a spin-off series in short order. Reckless Honor takes the storyline from personal and intimate against a larger backdrop (all the books before this one) and replaces it with an even larger backdrop of which the relationship is just one aspect of a much larger game. This isn't a bad thing, but I did miss the more intimate feel a bit.
I loved how this book blows the world wide open. Suddenly Defion (introduced in Code of Honor) becomes a major player - and we get to see things from some Defion agents' perspective. This is an explosive book and not just because some things explode either. It moves a new storyline forward in a big way and a totally unexpected way.
Jean Luc - the Cajun - is a wonderful character. He's funny and relaxed (except when he isn't) and so irreverent that... Oh wait, that's the old Jean Luc. This Jean Luc is vulnerable and sweet and so in love it hurts. He may have gone AWOL with just Marcus because of a promise, but the real reason is that he is wildly, inescapably in love with Claire. My heart just cried for him as he went through an emotional wringer that punched the stuffing out of him and tore him apart. I loved that Jean Luc even as I hated what happened to him and the realities he was forced to face.
Claire was... good. And she doesn't really change in that regard. She does fall in love with the sexy and struggling Cajun who just wants to protect her from the whole world. She falls so hard and so completely that her efforts at several points are heartbreaking to watch. She may be good, but she is not soft. Claire is tough as nails in her own way and willing to fight for what she believes in as well as the lives of those she loves (and the lives of the rest of the world).
Marcus features a number of times. He is deeply wounded by the death of his best friend Danny at the end of Code of Honor and that wound festers horribly. He's cruel in his pain and clearly not emotionally in a place where he can be considered even remotely level-headed. There is a lot of focus on Harvard as well. The "Kid" is struggling with something I see often in these types of books - he wants to contribute more than he is behind a computer by putting his life on the line like the other members of the team. Problem is, he fails to realize their lives are literally in his hands and they need him and that he contributes far more than he thinks. I liked seeing things from Defion perspectives. Mercedes and Seb are interesting characters who I know we'll see again.
I missed the strong "unit" feeling from previous books but given the major change in the way the story was told, this was inevitable. When HORNET did get fully involved, there was little focus on them as a unit and little movement forward in the changes to the leadership. Harvard's unhappiness was emphasized and the loaners from Tuc were introduced. I'd like to get the new dynamics a little better fleshed out in the next book though to solidify the new structure and the new feeling of unit.
The "ripped from the headlines" plot of Reckless Honor was fast-paced but not so fast there wasn't plenty of time to see events through multiple perspectives. It wasn't some break-neck pace. It was deeply emotional and to some degree introspective and philosophical. But, we never skipped a beat in that introspection. Everything was pushing forward the whole way. On top of that, this was a hopeful book in stark contrast to the deep despair at the end of Code of Honor. I was thrilled to see that.
Reckless Honor only solidified my belief that, for me, Ian's book is going to be the book of the series. Frankly, I can't wait for the next book to see where everything is going.
Speculation and Spoilers: Read at your own risk
No question, I am ready for the next book!
This review is ©April 2018 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
April 6, 2018
I'm delirious. I just finished this book and I'll be lucky if I can form complete sentences. I loved this book! I'm a little in lust with Jean-Luc anyway, that crazy Cajun and this just sent me right over the edge. It's white knuckle kindle gripping ride as Jean-Luc goes after the woman that has captured his heart, Claire Oliver.
This book brings Claire to Nigeria were she's called by a friend she went to school with because of an unknown outbreak of some new strain that is killing people, wiping out whole villages. Claire already has a price on her head and her research, she's working on a special project that's wanted by some lunatic, and crazy bad man has hired a group of subcontractors to go after her. After escaping with her life in a previous book in Martinique, losing her colleague and best friend, she's on her own. She doesn't know that Marcus and Jean Luc are on their way to find her. Jean Luc has sworn to protect her. He's gone against Hornet orders, so he's operating off the grid more or less. Claire battles time and extreme circumstance as she tries to ascertain what she's even up against. When she finds Jean Luc the pressure is on. Marcus is missing. So many risks, twists and turns. Back home Hornet is aware of what's happening and closing in on more information and finding out where they are, meanwhile the threat to kidnap Claire, with her anti-viral and her research is escalating.
This story is a rush. It's suspense, the ever lustful Jean Luc and Claire connection, along with who is wearing what hat. I did not put this one down. I kept those pages turning because each one brought a new turn of events. Also enter Mercedes (boo hiss) who isn't a nice person and she now must face Marcus.
Marcus wants answers for what happened to his partner Danny. (I do too) I can't wait for their book!
This one was a 5 star all the way for me. It's got it all. Turns out Jean Luc can sing after all.
**advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
This book brings Claire to Nigeria were she's called by a friend she went to school with because of an unknown outbreak of some new strain that is killing people, wiping out whole villages. Claire already has a price on her head and her research, she's working on a special project that's wanted by some lunatic, and crazy bad man has hired a group of subcontractors to go after her. After escaping with her life in a previous book in Martinique, losing her colleague and best friend, she's on her own. She doesn't know that Marcus and Jean Luc are on their way to find her. Jean Luc has sworn to protect her. He's gone against Hornet orders, so he's operating off the grid more or less. Claire battles time and extreme circumstance as she tries to ascertain what she's even up against. When she finds Jean Luc the pressure is on. Marcus is missing. So many risks, twists and turns. Back home Hornet is aware of what's happening and closing in on more information and finding out where they are, meanwhile the threat to kidnap Claire, with her anti-viral and her research is escalating.
This story is a rush. It's suspense, the ever lustful Jean Luc and Claire connection, along with who is wearing what hat. I did not put this one down. I kept those pages turning because each one brought a new turn of events. Also enter Mercedes (boo hiss) who isn't a nice person and she now must face Marcus.
Marcus wants answers for what happened to his partner Danny. (I do too) I can't wait for their book!
This one was a 5 star all the way for me. It's got it all. Turns out Jean Luc can sing after all.
**advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
March 29, 2018
LOVED this book!!! Finally, Jean-Luc and Claire get their book! I love the Hornet series and this book is a great addition. Jean-Luc is the ultimate playboy who has been smitten with Claire since they first met in a prior book. When she disappeared in Nigeria, he immediately rushed to try to find her. Unfortunately, he was captured for ransom before he located her. Then, while there, he was infected with a dangerous virus.
Claire, as a talented physician and researcher, was in the region treating the sick when she found Jean-Luc critically ill. But, Claire has an experimental treatment she developed and risks everything to get to it so she can use it to save him. But the people that were chasing Claire for this treatment are still chasing her and they don't care who they hurt in their quest to get both Claire and her research.
This is a very quickly moving novel that fans of the genre will love. I loved the characters and their story. The author made me care about them and feel invested in their getting a HEA. There is lots of action and a struggle for life that is woven throughout the book. While this is a romantic suspense, fans of both genres will enjoy this book. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours as well.
Claire, as a talented physician and researcher, was in the region treating the sick when she found Jean-Luc critically ill. But, Claire has an experimental treatment she developed and risks everything to get to it so she can use it to save him. But the people that were chasing Claire for this treatment are still chasing her and they don't care who they hurt in their quest to get both Claire and her research.
This is a very quickly moving novel that fans of the genre will love. I loved the characters and their story. The author made me care about them and feel invested in their getting a HEA. There is lots of action and a struggle for life that is woven throughout the book. While this is a romantic suspense, fans of both genres will enjoy this book. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours as well.
April 5, 2018
I received Reckless Horner by Tonya Burrows through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is part of the Hornet Series, the fifth in the series. The description says they are stand alone, but I found (after reading it as a stand alone and not reading the first four stories) that I missed half the plot. The action had already started, the relationship had already started and you are just dropped in the middle.
With that aside the book was very good. Claire is a virologist who is working on a cure for a virus that is wiping out entire towns. In a previous book she had been kidnapped for her work. Jean-Luc saves her and promises to find her again.
In this book she finds him in a village that has been wiped out from the virus, and he’s been infected. Determined to save his life she takes him back to her ‘hospital’, but it’s been attacked and they are now on the run.
Good story, but again, I don’t recommend reading it as a stand alone.
This is part of the Hornet Series, the fifth in the series. The description says they are stand alone, but I found (after reading it as a stand alone and not reading the first four stories) that I missed half the plot. The action had already started, the relationship had already started and you are just dropped in the middle.
With that aside the book was very good. Claire is a virologist who is working on a cure for a virus that is wiping out entire towns. In a previous book she had been kidnapped for her work. Jean-Luc saves her and promises to find her again.
In this book she finds him in a village that has been wiped out from the virus, and he’s been infected. Determined to save his life she takes him back to her ‘hospital’, but it’s been attacked and they are now on the run.
Good story, but again, I don’t recommend reading it as a stand alone.
May 27, 2018
If you enjoy your books fast paced, action packed, with a fun steamy romance look no further. That's exactly what this book is. Whether you have read previous HORNET books or not, you'll enjoy Jean-Luc's story. Always the joking playboy, Jean-Luc finds himself inexplicably drawn to Dr. Claire Oliver. He's finally tracked her down in Nigeria and realizes she's in real danger. Well actually she found him and he needs her to save him. Now that he has her he plans on keeping her and keeping her safe while they discover exactly what this intense attraction between them really is.
This is a quick read that I think everyone will enjoy. I recommend it.
This is a quick read that I think everyone will enjoy. I recommend it.
April 10, 2018
Claire is running for her life, when a friend asks her for help. On her friends behest, she ends up trying to save the people of a village near the Niger Delta who are slowly dying because of a deadly virus.
When Jean-Luc helped Claire escape Martinique, he promised her to would find her and keep her safe. And to keep that promise he disobeyed orders and landed up on Nigeria. And now he has been kidnapped by militants and is infected by the deadly virus that has zero mortality rate.
Reckless Honor is a thrilling read with a great suspenseful story. Deadly virus, action, suspense, romance, hot chemistry keep you hooked. A highly entertaining read with lots of twists and turns.
When Jean-Luc helped Claire escape Martinique, he promised her to would find her and keep her safe. And to keep that promise he disobeyed orders and landed up on Nigeria. And now he has been kidnapped by militants and is infected by the deadly virus that has zero mortality rate.
Reckless Honor is a thrilling read with a great suspenseful story. Deadly virus, action, suspense, romance, hot chemistry keep you hooked. A highly entertaining read with lots of twists and turns.
April 28, 2018
This was such a fantastic romantic suspense read. There were moments when I did not know how Tonya was going to make things work for Claire and Jean-Luc. I also loved seeing all the past characters and how they all worked together like the family that they are.
I can't wait to see what else Tonya has in store for us!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I can't wait to see what else Tonya has in store for us!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 26, 2018
Jean-Luc I found to be adorable, I mean you're not supposed to describe a manly-man as adorable but Jean-Luc just was, “right. Alors pas. I’ve been frustrated …to say the least…and the cork popped when I touched you.” There were times Jean-Luc didn't like have to have patience, “uh-uh.” She held up a hand as he prowled toward her. “Bath first.” He scowled at the tub like it had just insulted his mother, then sighed dramatically." I liked this book, I fellin love with Jean-Luc.
February 5, 2019
3.5
Kind of "Outbreak"meets Jason Bourne. Excellent romantic suspense, however it was obviously part of a series. This book can function on it's own, but there is a lot of mention of other book's characters and their plots. If you haven't read the other books, then that eventually gets very annoying.
Kind of "Outbreak"meets Jason Bourne. Excellent romantic suspense, however it was obviously part of a series. This book can function on it's own, but there is a lot of mention of other book's characters and their plots. If you haven't read the other books, then that eventually gets very annoying.
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