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Hell Squad #11
Devlin
In the aftermath of a deadly alien invasion, a spy and a soldier find themselves locked in an alien cage and told…mate or die.
A covert mission gone horribly wrong. Cool, composed spy, Devlin Gray is used to bad situations, but locked in the bowels of an alien facility with tough, sexy soldier Taylor and told to mate is bad. Very bad. During his career, he’s had to lie and kill, he’s been betrayed, and he knows he works best on his own. Now he is forced to depend on Taylor, and together they have to find a way to escape before it’s too late…
Taylor Cates has already been to hell once before. She lives to fight for others, just like her mother once fought for her, and Taylor vows to do whatever it takes to escape the aliens. As she works with the sexy, suave Devlin, she starts to see glimpses of the man beneath the cool exterior. An exterior she soon finds she wants to melt.
In the worst of circumstances, a passion is born. But on the run for their lives, Devlin and Taylor soon discover far worse things in the alien facility: human prisoners and a weapon that could be the very downfall of the human race. A weapon that will threaten their friends, their home, and everything they hold dear.
A covert mission gone horribly wrong. Cool, composed spy, Devlin Gray is used to bad situations, but locked in the bowels of an alien facility with tough, sexy soldier Taylor and told to mate is bad. Very bad. During his career, he’s had to lie and kill, he’s been betrayed, and he knows he works best on his own. Now he is forced to depend on Taylor, and together they have to find a way to escape before it’s too late…
Taylor Cates has already been to hell once before. She lives to fight for others, just like her mother once fought for her, and Taylor vows to do whatever it takes to escape the aliens. As she works with the sexy, suave Devlin, she starts to see glimpses of the man beneath the cool exterior. An exterior she soon finds she wants to melt.
In the worst of circumstances, a passion is born. But on the run for their lives, Devlin and Taylor soon discover far worse things in the alien facility: human prisoners and a weapon that could be the very downfall of the human race. A weapon that will threaten their friends, their home, and everything they hold dear.
5 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 20, 2016
361 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Anna Hackett
154 books2,873 followersI’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
March 24, 2019
As always enjoyed it thoroughly!
I loved the pairing, sexy, strong, confident Taylor and lone wolf, former spy Devlin. And the best part- he wasn’t a manho. Waiting eagerly for Tane and Selena’s (I sincerely hope author pair them together) story.
Recommended.
I loved the pairing, sexy, strong, confident Taylor and lone wolf, former spy Devlin. And the best part- he wasn’t a manho. Waiting eagerly for Tane and Selena’s (I sincerely hope author pair them together) story.
Recommended.
January 20, 2017
I like this series and I like this world. I like the couple as well. Devlin is super sexy with a hot British accent and the heroine is a badass.
However, I am tiring of the I am not good enough hero resists trope in these books.
There becomes a sameness that isn't fun even as the series plot arc moves nicely forward.
However, I am tiring of the I am not good enough hero resists trope in these books.
There becomes a sameness that isn't fun even as the series plot arc moves nicely forward.
February 5, 2017
I love how the incredible and impossible meet in this series! :)
The romance is always almost insta, but it is still nice and hot! LOL
But the best is the immagination: how Ms. Hackett manages to insert in the story some happenings that are really out-of-the-world!
Here it's the new Gazzida weapon: a sphere that entrances the humans and render them zombie-like!
I'm wondering what's next? ;)
The romance is always almost insta, but it is still nice and hot! LOL
But the best is the immagination: how Ms. Hackett manages to insert in the story some happenings that are really out-of-the-world!
Here it's the new Gazzida weapon: a sphere that entrances the humans and render them zombie-like!
I'm wondering what's next? ;)
December 30, 2016
Four and a half from me
Wow well the last book saw this couple left in a right pickle and no mistake ! Captured by the alien Gizzida , in a cell and told to mate! What on earth was going on? Well stand by for this author to bring us all up to speed as Devlin and Taylor do their very best to bamboozle the aliens. I think the concept of procreate or get killed certainly drives the couple but it puts them in a uniquely tricky position. Now the Gizzida might be tech savvy but sometimes they overlook the human element and with super spy Devlin around , not to mention indomitable Taylor it's not exactly going to go to plan. Oh I can't say too much obviously but this couple are not the sort to sit around picking their navel fluff so you just know that an escape is on the cards but what they find is about to be a huge turning point in the war to take back Earth!
I really liked the different approach used here. Yes the couple are aware of each other but there's no furtive glances or previous flirting. No instead throwing them together actually encourages them to really see each other and appreciate just who they are. Devlin tries so hard to be the gentleman but Taylor knocks his socks off with her lets just do this and survive attitude . Devlin has always been a secretive character so it was a delight to learn of his lonely past. Now Taylor was a complete revelation as there's a grim back story to her which made her fighting attitude even more poignant. No instant love (hurray!) but a bond born in battle that just makes sense. I really enjoy the breakneck speed of these stories and look forward to many more
Wow well the last book saw this couple left in a right pickle and no mistake ! Captured by the alien Gizzida , in a cell and told to mate! What on earth was going on? Well stand by for this author to bring us all up to speed as Devlin and Taylor do their very best to bamboozle the aliens. I think the concept of procreate or get killed certainly drives the couple but it puts them in a uniquely tricky position. Now the Gizzida might be tech savvy but sometimes they overlook the human element and with super spy Devlin around , not to mention indomitable Taylor it's not exactly going to go to plan. Oh I can't say too much obviously but this couple are not the sort to sit around picking their navel fluff so you just know that an escape is on the cards but what they find is about to be a huge turning point in the war to take back Earth!
I really liked the different approach used here. Yes the couple are aware of each other but there's no furtive glances or previous flirting. No instead throwing them together actually encourages them to really see each other and appreciate just who they are. Devlin tries so hard to be the gentleman but Taylor knocks his socks off with her lets just do this and survive attitude . Devlin has always been a secretive character so it was a delight to learn of his lonely past. Now Taylor was a complete revelation as there's a grim back story to her which made her fighting attitude even more poignant. No instant love (hurray!) but a bond born in battle that just makes sense. I really enjoy the breakneck speed of these stories and look forward to many more
October 5, 2021
I love that it doesn’t matter which book I read in this series, I am always greatly entertained, and I especially love how the they don’t just “sit around”.
Stuff happens, aliens get ass-kicked, love flourishes and friendships become even stronger.
There are just so many loveable characters.
And I just love how they all interact.
I am ALL for it.
Will never tire of this series. Never.
The reason for granting this particular story 4 stars and not 5 was the fact that even though I loved Devlin, he didn’t “sound British” to me, and that clashed with the repeated “you are so British, right know” that everyone kept commenting on and I was like “what, where”?
Word choices are important when you deal with an accent.
And Devlin’s character didn’t say anything that made me “hear” a British man in my head.
Did that make me sound weird😂?
I still love the book though.
Taylor was my fave. I highly enjoyed that she went all “I will make him fall for me.”
It’s nice to see a woman going for what she wants. 💪
Read: 13/05/2021
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Alien invasion/post apocalyptic/Romanve/action/suspense
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Dual 3rd person (Taylor & Devlin) (+added Theron chapter).
Will I recommend: Yes, but has to be read in reading order. (And you will want to because the previous books are insanely good too.)🌺
Stuff happens, aliens get ass-kicked, love flourishes and friendships become even stronger.
There are just so many loveable characters.
And I just love how they all interact.
I am ALL for it.
Will never tire of this series. Never.
The reason for granting this particular story 4 stars and not 5 was the fact that even though I loved Devlin, he didn’t “sound British” to me, and that clashed with the repeated “you are so British, right know” that everyone kept commenting on and I was like “what, where”?
Word choices are important when you deal with an accent.
And Devlin’s character didn’t say anything that made me “hear” a British man in my head.
Did that make me sound weird😂?
I still love the book though.
Taylor was my fave. I highly enjoyed that she went all “I will make him fall for me.”
It’s nice to see a woman going for what she wants. 💪
Read: 13/05/2021
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Alien invasion/post apocalyptic/Romanve/action/suspense
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Dual 3rd person (Taylor & Devlin) (+added Theron chapter).
Will I recommend: Yes, but has to be read in reading order. (And you will want to because the previous books are insanely good too.)🌺
August 21, 2018
This one was very similar to previous books....couple hook up, hot hot sex,big guy feels he can't get seriously involved for whatever reason and attempts to step back from the relationship, fighting aliens,then ily and the end. Nothing really special here but Plot wise the discovery of the yellow globe and it's effects was interesting, but I needed a better explanation of how the guys managed to be caught in its snare. Another ok read.
December 23, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
“Aliens made them do it” is a classic trope in fanfiction. It is also the opening gambit in Devlin, book 11 in the Hell Squad series. It’s hard to believe that we are 11 books into this series and that it’s only been a little over a year and a half since Marcus first walked into Elle’s heart (and ours) in the early days of the Gizzida invasion of Earth.
A lot has happened in those intervening books (and months). The desperate fighting squads of Blue Mountain Base, and the civilians they protect, managed to find their way to the hidden human Enclave, just barely ahead of the Gizzida. Now that the humans have gotten back together in Australia, and made a daring and successful attempt to re-establish communications with human outposts around the globe, it is time to take the fight to the Gizzida and throw them off our planet.
There’s an Independence Day vibe (the original, not the blasted sequel) to the whole thing. Along with a little bit of Borg thrown in for spice. And bodies.
But we’re not there yet. In this entry of the series, super-spy Devlin Gray finds himself locked in a Gizzida interrogation cell with Taylor Cates of Squad Nine. The aliens want to watch them mate. And as much as Devlin and Taylor suddenly realize that it might be more than fun under other circumstances, what they are currently in is neither the time nor the place. In the best tradition under these circumstances, they put on a show. Admittedly, not quite as hilarious a show as the one that Ivanova puts on in the Babylon 5 episode “Acts of Sacrifice”.
I said this trope had a long tradition.
But as so often happens when the aliens make two team mates “do it”, or even pretend to, the act makes the two partners realize that there is more between them than merely comradeship.
And that’s the case here. As Devlin and Taylor make their harrowing escape from the Gizzida factory, they discover both a horrific new weapon and their growing desire for each other. The weapon is a pain in the ass to even capture, let alone find a way to defeat.
What they feel for each other? There is no way to defeat love. Not even the hero’s stupid attempt at being a complete asshat. Whatever the future brings, they are both all in.
Escape Rating B+: I love this series. If you enjoy science fiction romance and/or alien apocalypse stories and or dystopian romance, Hell Squad is a winner. Every book is a terrific combination of post-apocalyptic action with steamy hot romance. Each story contains both an individual HFN and moves the fight that forms the basis of the series arc forward a few notches.
I say HFN rather than HEA not because there is any doubt about or between any of the couples, but because the overarching question in the series is whether any humans have any chance at any kind of “ever after”. At all.
But as much as I love the series, and as much as I enjoy each outing, for this reader it feels like time to arc toward kicking the Gizzida’s asses off our planet. The patterns of the romances are starting to feel a bit too familiar each time, and the overall situation can’t remain in stasis. The Gizzida want to wipe out the human race, and have made entirely too much progress towards that goal. They have nearly overwhelming force, and it’s going to take a miracle or a giant deus ex machina to blow them off. But it feels like time for that to happen.
In Devlin, the human survivors both make progress towards that goal and discover a new roadblock, which seems to be a pattern as well. I want to see this world get its HEA.
“Aliens made them do it” is a classic trope in fanfiction. It is also the opening gambit in Devlin, book 11 in the Hell Squad series. It’s hard to believe that we are 11 books into this series and that it’s only been a little over a year and a half since Marcus first walked into Elle’s heart (and ours) in the early days of the Gizzida invasion of Earth.
A lot has happened in those intervening books (and months). The desperate fighting squads of Blue Mountain Base, and the civilians they protect, managed to find their way to the hidden human Enclave, just barely ahead of the Gizzida. Now that the humans have gotten back together in Australia, and made a daring and successful attempt to re-establish communications with human outposts around the globe, it is time to take the fight to the Gizzida and throw them off our planet.
There’s an Independence Day vibe (the original, not the blasted sequel) to the whole thing. Along with a little bit of Borg thrown in for spice. And bodies.
But we’re not there yet. In this entry of the series, super-spy Devlin Gray finds himself locked in a Gizzida interrogation cell with Taylor Cates of Squad Nine. The aliens want to watch them mate. And as much as Devlin and Taylor suddenly realize that it might be more than fun under other circumstances, what they are currently in is neither the time nor the place. In the best tradition under these circumstances, they put on a show. Admittedly, not quite as hilarious a show as the one that Ivanova puts on in the Babylon 5 episode “Acts of Sacrifice”.
I said this trope had a long tradition.
But as so often happens when the aliens make two team mates “do it”, or even pretend to, the act makes the two partners realize that there is more between them than merely comradeship.
And that’s the case here. As Devlin and Taylor make their harrowing escape from the Gizzida factory, they discover both a horrific new weapon and their growing desire for each other. The weapon is a pain in the ass to even capture, let alone find a way to defeat.
What they feel for each other? There is no way to defeat love. Not even the hero’s stupid attempt at being a complete asshat. Whatever the future brings, they are both all in.
Escape Rating B+: I love this series. If you enjoy science fiction romance and/or alien apocalypse stories and or dystopian romance, Hell Squad is a winner. Every book is a terrific combination of post-apocalyptic action with steamy hot romance. Each story contains both an individual HFN and moves the fight that forms the basis of the series arc forward a few notches.
I say HFN rather than HEA not because there is any doubt about or between any of the couples, but because the overarching question in the series is whether any humans have any chance at any kind of “ever after”. At all.
But as much as I love the series, and as much as I enjoy each outing, for this reader it feels like time to arc toward kicking the Gizzida’s asses off our planet. The patterns of the romances are starting to feel a bit too familiar each time, and the overall situation can’t remain in stasis. The Gizzida want to wipe out the human race, and have made entirely too much progress towards that goal. They have nearly overwhelming force, and it’s going to take a miracle or a giant deus ex machina to blow them off. But it feels like time for that to happen.
In Devlin, the human survivors both make progress towards that goal and discover a new roadblock, which seems to be a pattern as well. I want to see this world get its HEA.
October 18, 2018
Devlin and Taylor are up this time and...well, things start on a slightly sexy note. Not that being force to mate at the whims of the Gizzida is sexy. But their capture forces Devlin and Taylor to face that there might be more simmering between them than just admiration for a co-worker.
In fat, Taylor forces Devlin to face a lot of things about himself. And the big guy isn't gun-shy once he gets challenged, either. I mean, it takes him a bit to come to terms with it, but it's fairly painless all things considered.
What isn't so painless is the survivors realizing the Gizzida are up to their old tricks. By that, I mean their old tricks with a new twist. Those aliens are kind of jerks, aren't they? As if conquering Earth wasn't enough, now they want to wipe the humans off the face of their own planet.
No worries, though, the Hell Squad crew and the other squads are on it. AND OMG I'M EXCITED FOR THE NEXT SET OF BOOKS. Those Berserkers are going to kill me, aren't they? YESSSSSS.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
In fat, Taylor forces Devlin to face a lot of things about himself. And the big guy isn't gun-shy once he gets challenged, either. I mean, it takes him a bit to come to terms with it, but it's fairly painless all things considered.
What isn't so painless is the survivors realizing the Gizzida are up to their old tricks. By that, I mean their old tricks with a new twist. Those aliens are kind of jerks, aren't they? As if conquering Earth wasn't enough, now they want to wipe the humans off the face of their own planet.
No worries, though, the Hell Squad crew and the other squads are on it. AND OMG I'M EXCITED FOR THE NEXT SET OF BOOKS. Those Berserkers are going to kill me, aren't they? YESSSSSS.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 20, 2018
3.5 stars.
This is the story of the James Bond-esque Devlin with another of the ladies (Taylor) from Roth's unit. I don't remember much about Taylor but Dev did make quite an impression when he infiltrated the alien Mother Ship in one of the earlier books.
The aliens have got new weapons and they are set to eliminate the whole human race. So Dev and Taylor need to infiltrate the alien's base to get more information.
A couple of quibbles..
This is the story of the James Bond-esque Devlin with another of the ladies (Taylor) from Roth's unit. I don't remember much about Taylor but Dev did make quite an impression when he infiltrated the alien Mother Ship in one of the earlier books.
The aliens have got new weapons and they are set to eliminate the whole human race. So Dev and Taylor need to infiltrate the alien's base to get more information.
A couple of quibbles..
February 25, 2025
Series: Hell Squad #11
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Former M16 agent, Devlin Gray and Squad 9 soldier Taylor Cates are captured by the aliens. They are locked in the bowls of an alien factory and are monitored by the aliens who want them to mate. Together they work to escape the aliens and alert the Enclave of a new alien weapon that controls human minds.
I have liked the mysterious Devlin since he was introduced and I like him even more now that I know his history. He lost his family, was betrayed as an agent, and no longer knows how to trust anyone. Letting Taylor in takes a lot of effort and time but she doesn’t let him hide. Taylor is a kickass heroine that loves the finer things in life. Her past has taught her to appreciate the nice things in life and to fight to survive. I really loved both of these characters and I think they make an amazing, and deadly, couple.
“I love you, too. And I’m thinking it’s only going to get stronger with every day that passes.” - Devlin
This book started with a bang and didn’t stop until the end. I loved every minute of it. The aliens are getting smarter and wiser with each book and seeing the squads fight for the future is very emotional. I cannot wait to see how the survivors combat the mind control orbs in the future.
“No matter what happened or what the aliens threw at them, they’d never give up. That was what the fight against the aliens was all about. Hope. Not to regain what they’d lost, but to build something new and better.”
Also the ending of this book with the Christmas party was perfect and beautiful. I love the scene with Marcus and Elle, who are my favorite couple. It was also great to see the other couples.
Reader Warning: Heroine was kidnapped and abused as a child (referenced only). Death of parents recounted.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Former M16 agent, Devlin Gray and Squad 9 soldier Taylor Cates are captured by the aliens. They are locked in the bowls of an alien factory and are monitored by the aliens who want them to mate. Together they work to escape the aliens and alert the Enclave of a new alien weapon that controls human minds.
I have liked the mysterious Devlin since he was introduced and I like him even more now that I know his history. He lost his family, was betrayed as an agent, and no longer knows how to trust anyone. Letting Taylor in takes a lot of effort and time but she doesn’t let him hide. Taylor is a kickass heroine that loves the finer things in life. Her past has taught her to appreciate the nice things in life and to fight to survive. I really loved both of these characters and I think they make an amazing, and deadly, couple.
“I love you, too. And I’m thinking it’s only going to get stronger with every day that passes.” - Devlin
This book started with a bang and didn’t stop until the end. I loved every minute of it. The aliens are getting smarter and wiser with each book and seeing the squads fight for the future is very emotional. I cannot wait to see how the survivors combat the mind control orbs in the future.
“No matter what happened or what the aliens threw at them, they’d never give up. That was what the fight against the aliens was all about. Hope. Not to regain what they’d lost, but to build something new and better.”
Also the ending of this book with the Christmas party was perfect and beautiful. I love the scene with Marcus and Elle, who are my favorite couple. It was also great to see the other couples.
Reader Warning: Heroine was kidnapped and abused as a child (referenced only). Death of parents recounted.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
December 21, 2016
Mate or die is a trope that can go some weird and icky places, and thankfully it doesn’t here. The attraction between Taylor and Devlin may get a spark plug to it, but unfolds organically otherwise. Speaking of spark plugs, there’s lots of explosive, well-paced action. Our heroes make new discoveries of interesting technology that creates problems for them to solve.
Devlin is a great entry for Hell Squad, and I think the reason is Taylor. She knows what she wants, she goes after it, she feels real (has little cool character details), her motivations make a lot of sense, and I’d want her as a BFF. Tay has great chemistry with her squadmates and I love how those friendships are portrayed. Her super spy man, Devlin, is pretty cool, too. Those who like to dream of their own Bond will enjoy him. Together, they make some fine love scenes.
Read the other Hell Squad books before this one. We get more of what’s up with recurring characters, making the community feel very real. It’s especially feel-good for Christmas, and all the love and hope amidst pretty tough odds made me feel warm.
Devlin is a great entry for Hell Squad, and I think the reason is Taylor. She knows what she wants, she goes after it, she feels real (has little cool character details), her motivations make a lot of sense, and I’d want her as a BFF. Tay has great chemistry with her squadmates and I love how those friendships are portrayed. Her super spy man, Devlin, is pretty cool, too. Those who like to dream of their own Bond will enjoy him. Together, they make some fine love scenes.
Read the other Hell Squad books before this one. We get more of what’s up with recurring characters, making the community feel very real. It’s especially feel-good for Christmas, and all the love and hope amidst pretty tough odds made me feel warm.
May 25, 2020
Ms. Hackett is powering up this series with More excitement, More alien danger, More steam! This story is best enjoyed when the series is read in order, but each story does feature a different main couple who get their HEA (happily ever after). This story hints at couples that will be featured in feature books, but there isn’t a cliff-hanger ending. The story starts off with a bang and then races along with humor, action, aliens, gadgets, suspense, and steamy romance (not overly descriptive or explicit). I highly recommend this story and the series as a whole to anyone that loves sci-fi romance with lots of action and danger.
December 5, 2022
DEVLIN, #11 is a fast moving, hope-filled dystopian novel with a lot of action, suspense, plenty of Steamy scenes of intimacy and a HFN (dystopian)/HEA. I purchased and listened to the audio version nicely read by Jeffrey Kafer and Samantha Cook.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4 Stars. I am enjoying this series
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed this; 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
DEVLIN, #11 ~
About two years after the alien invasion and 1+ month after moving from the Blue Mountain military site to the secret Enclave south of Sydney. DEVLIN takes place nearly immediately after FINN.
MMC Devlin Gray is a former British MI6 insertion agent, experienced in disappearing behind enemy lines and fluent in a number of languages. Since the alien invasion he has joined the stealth team which completes recon missions into enemy territory, attempting to determine the aliens strengths, weaponry, location of labs and bases, and plans for annihilating earth’s population. FMC Taylor Cates comes from a tragic background which she survived determined to never again be a victim. She began training in self defense, hand-to-hand fighting and shooting then joined the army excelling as a soldier. After the invasion Taylor immediately joined Squad 9, a team of former military personnel protecting civilians, fighting the aliens and inserting behind enemy territory for specific missions.
In DEVLIN, Devlin and Taylor are sent on a recon mission behind enemy territory which quickly becomes a debacle of the worst kind. Their lives become endangered and desperate measures are necessary. Devlin and Taylor must brainstorm a way to somehow salvage their mission and return to the safety of the Enclave. And quickly; time is ticking.
Comments ~
1) I enjoyed the suspense and action scenes in DEVLIN which starts off pretty fast. The characters (Devlin & Taylor) know each other fairly well and when put into an extreme Proximity-Danger situation, understand their total trust in each other will determine whether or not they survive and their mission succeed.
The latter books in the Hell Squad series almost remind me of serials in a mini-series or individual episodes in a television series - which doesn’t have to be a bad thing - just advising readers the whole story arc is slow (and building in tension) through to the end of the series.
2) Both Devlin and Taylor were characters I could understand, admire for their resilience, dedication, capabilities and also like. I wanted them to survive their mission and gain their much deserved HEA/HFN (dystopian).
3) DEVLIN is a dystopian novel. Readers who are willing to let go of reality, logical thinking, scientific facts and just settle in for the ride will find the most enjoyment in this series.
4) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading (DEVLIN was a 3.5-4hr audio at my listening speed), great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work. I am finding the story arc a captivating journey.
5) Although DEVLIN might be read as a standalone title, I really don’t recommend it at this point. DEVLIN is the 11th book in a 20 bk series with an ongoing story arc. A lot of continuity and character development will be missed starting with DEVLIN. I prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
6) I thought the reading by Kafer and Cook was well done. They were challenged with various accents (Russian and English), as well as the intimacy scenes, which must have been fun for them. ;) (I purchased nearly the entire audio series when they went on Sale).
7) Overall, I am enjoying this series and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of detailed steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (and above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (and above).
*Quick reading romance novels to insert between other genres and tropes (and are okay with light dystopian settings and steamy scenes).
*Imperfect alpha-type male characters who commit 100%+ to the woman they love and appreciate complicated, authentic, resilient women
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. An intimacy scene begins about 1/2 way in the book. The characters knew each other previously as colleagues but not really well.
VIOLENCE - Yes. Think a dystopian world with marauding alien.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4 Stars. I am enjoying this series
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed this; 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
DEVLIN, #11 ~
About two years after the alien invasion and 1+ month after moving from the Blue Mountain military site to the secret Enclave south of Sydney. DEVLIN takes place nearly immediately after FINN.
MMC Devlin Gray is a former British MI6 insertion agent, experienced in disappearing behind enemy lines and fluent in a number of languages. Since the alien invasion he has joined the stealth team which completes recon missions into enemy territory, attempting to determine the aliens strengths, weaponry, location of labs and bases, and plans for annihilating earth’s population. FMC Taylor Cates comes from a tragic background which she survived determined to never again be a victim. She began training in self defense, hand-to-hand fighting and shooting then joined the army excelling as a soldier. After the invasion Taylor immediately joined Squad 9, a team of former military personnel protecting civilians, fighting the aliens and inserting behind enemy territory for specific missions.
In DEVLIN, Devlin and Taylor are sent on a recon mission behind enemy territory which quickly becomes a debacle of the worst kind. Their lives become endangered and desperate measures are necessary. Devlin and Taylor must brainstorm a way to somehow salvage their mission and return to the safety of the Enclave. And quickly; time is ticking.
Comments ~
1) I enjoyed the suspense and action scenes in DEVLIN which starts off pretty fast. The characters (Devlin & Taylor) know each other fairly well and when put into an extreme Proximity-Danger situation, understand their total trust in each other will determine whether or not they survive and their mission succeed.
The latter books in the Hell Squad series almost remind me of serials in a mini-series or individual episodes in a television series - which doesn’t have to be a bad thing - just advising readers the whole story arc is slow (and building in tension) through to the end of the series.
2) Both Devlin and Taylor were characters I could understand, admire for their resilience, dedication, capabilities and also like. I wanted them to survive their mission and gain their much deserved HEA/HFN (dystopian).
3) DEVLIN is a dystopian novel. Readers who are willing to let go of reality, logical thinking, scientific facts and just settle in for the ride will find the most enjoyment in this series.
4) The Hell Squad books are very fast reading (DEVLIN was a 3.5-4hr audio at my listening speed), great for a few hours of escape or to decompress after work. I am finding the story arc a captivating journey.
5) Although DEVLIN might be read as a standalone title, I really don’t recommend it at this point. DEVLIN is the 11th book in a 20 bk series with an ongoing story arc. A lot of continuity and character development will be missed starting with DEVLIN. I prefer reading Anna Hackett’s series starting with book one and continuing through the series in order.
6) I thought the reading by Kafer and Cook was well done. They were challenged with various accents (Russian and English), as well as the intimacy scenes, which must have been fun for them. ;) (I purchased nearly the entire audio series when they went on Sale).
7) Overall, I am enjoying this series and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
*Action/Adventure novels (and are okay with a number of detailed steamy intimacy scenes).
*Dystopian Romance novels (and above).
*Escape fiction, such as Fantasy and Space Opera (and above).
*Quick reading romance novels to insert between other genres and tropes (and are okay with light dystopian settings and steamy scenes).
*Imperfect alpha-type male characters who commit 100%+ to the woman they love and appreciate complicated, authentic, resilient women
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. An intimacy scene begins about 1/2 way in the book. The characters knew each other previously as colleagues but not really well.
VIOLENCE - Yes. Think a dystopian world with marauding alien.
April 8, 2025
Tension is building; the Aliens are accelerating.
Super Spy, ex-MI6, Devlin Gray works solo. He has no friends, no lovers; he just focuses on the next mission. Devlin is invisible as he sneaks in and out of the alien Gizzida bases. There is something big happening at the Gizzida base in Sydney, and he and a partner are going to sneak in and find out what it is. Squad 9's team member, Taylor Cates, was chosen to be his partner. She’s a real beauty, but more important is that she's exceptionally competent; Devlin would still rather go alone.
This mission soon turns into a cluster screw up, they are captured, stripped and told to mate. Really? Luckily, Devlin and Taylor can improvise enough to be believable to the idiot Gizzada. Working together, Taylor and Devlin outmaneuver the aliens fighting their way out. Before they escape, they discover a new alien device that will give the Gizzida total control over humans. This is a game changer.
Devlin and Taylor formed a friendship and a bond through their shared trauma as children. Their physical attraction finally erupts into a wonderful, passion-filled companionship. They need and deserve each other.
This is one of the scariest stories in the series. So much is coming that will lead to the end of either humans or the Gizzida. But for now, a celebration is in order, and Christmas is a great excuse to gather for fun, food, and friends… and to share in the joy of a couple of blessed surprises. Great series. Linda
Super Spy, ex-MI6, Devlin Gray works solo. He has no friends, no lovers; he just focuses on the next mission. Devlin is invisible as he sneaks in and out of the alien Gizzida bases. There is something big happening at the Gizzida base in Sydney, and he and a partner are going to sneak in and find out what it is. Squad 9's team member, Taylor Cates, was chosen to be his partner. She’s a real beauty, but more important is that she's exceptionally competent; Devlin would still rather go alone.
This mission soon turns into a cluster screw up, they are captured, stripped and told to mate. Really? Luckily, Devlin and Taylor can improvise enough to be believable to the idiot Gizzada. Working together, Taylor and Devlin outmaneuver the aliens fighting their way out. Before they escape, they discover a new alien device that will give the Gizzida total control over humans. This is a game changer.
Devlin and Taylor formed a friendship and a bond through their shared trauma as children. Their physical attraction finally erupts into a wonderful, passion-filled companionship. They need and deserve each other.
This is one of the scariest stories in the series. So much is coming that will lead to the end of either humans or the Gizzida. But for now, a celebration is in order, and Christmas is a great excuse to gather for fun, food, and friends… and to share in the joy of a couple of blessed surprises. Great series. Linda
December 20, 2016
Devlin Gray was a master spy for MI6 before the Gizzida invasion. He has been on his alone most all his life, he prefers to work alone and has nothing to lose; had nothing to lose even before the invasion; his job is to gather intelligence and protect the members of Sanctuary. But on this mission he isn't alone and that complicates things. Taylor Cates is a member of Squad 9 and an excellent soldier. She has bonded with her squad, she's personable and protective of those she knows. And she thinks Devlin Gray needs to open his eyes and realise others do care about him. They are captured and the Gizzida order them to mate. Being locked in a cage and having to find a way out isn't new for Devlin but being ordered to have sex with a certain sexy ass-kicking soldier is new and too close to his secret desire. How to keep Taylor safe and get out of the cage and away from the Gizzida is a problem. They can fake having sex well enough to fool the aliens but can Devlin keep his façade of not caring about anyone else intact.
February 9, 2024
On a recon mission at the jamming station, squad 9’s ‘every moment is my best moment’ warrior soldier Taylor Cates and MI-6 trained superspy Devlin Gray are caught by the Gizzida, who demand they mate; the Gizzida want to watch, monitor their body functions and collect their body fluids. After an enthusiastic ‘not quite a show’, Dev and Taylor escape; they’d learned weapons and vehicles were made there and humans were caged. Then they saw the most insidious weapon yet!
Aware they have to get the information to base Dev and Taylor dive into the jungle and a fight for their lives. Dev gets a fatal wound and the pair hobble to try to find a safe place to call for help when Hell Squad burst thru to just the spot to help and save Dev and Taylor. Back at the base, the two become a couple but Dev can’t handle the pressure of possibilities and breaks things off as the squads prepare to execute their plan against the latest weapon and he’s forced to reconsider..
Rating: 4stars
Aware they have to get the information to base Dev and Taylor dive into the jungle and a fight for their lives. Dev gets a fatal wound and the pair hobble to try to find a safe place to call for help when Hell Squad burst thru to just the spot to help and save Dev and Taylor. Back at the base, the two become a couple but Dev can’t handle the pressure of possibilities and breaks things off as the squads prepare to execute their plan against the latest weapon and he’s forced to reconsider..
Rating: 4stars
August 31, 2022
Reencontrarme despues de un tiempo con este mundo, con los personajes, me hizo bien, habia dejado en pausa la serie porque me parecia muychocante y no sabia como iba a tratar la autora el hecho de que los aliens quisieran que procrearan encerrados y esa sea su fincion, pero no se centro en eso, no llego a lo que podria haber sido y me saco ese miedo que cargaba, los personajes me parecieron dulces y decididos, no son personajes de los que supieramos tanto como en otras historias pasadas, pero hace un tiempo queria saber quien iba a hacer que el larguirucho devlin se enamorara y resulto ser nada mas y nada menos que Taylor que es una guerrera de pies a cabezas, me fascino su actitud de quiero esto y lucho por eso. sin dudas un buen libro para salir del bloqueo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2017
Somehow I started with book 11, but you don't really need to start at the begining, each book works on its own. The humans are still fighting off the alien invaders, but the aliens have a new weapon, a globe that entrances all humans who gaze at it. Spy Devlin has to work with others from the Enclave, including love interest Taylor to destroy the globe. Only then do they discover that the aliens are only using the globe to lure out the humans, they have a mysterious weapon that we'll find out about in the next book I guess.
February 10, 2018
Another great book
I love all of these books but I really love it when it is about one of the female soldiers. They are all so baddass and don't need to have an alpha male because they're very alpha female in their own right.
Dev is a super spy and collects info on the aliens. To say his job is dangerous is putting it lightly. Taylor is a soldier from one of the squads so she is out there fighting the aliens everyday. Together they are perfect and clearly made for each other.
I love all of these books but I really love it when it is about one of the female soldiers. They are all so baddass and don't need to have an alpha male because they're very alpha female in their own right.
Dev is a super spy and collects info on the aliens. To say his job is dangerous is putting it lightly. Taylor is a soldier from one of the squads so she is out there fighting the aliens everyday. Together they are perfect and clearly made for each other.
May 28, 2020
I love Devlin
These books continue to grip me and have me devouring every word. In this book we see more heroics and heartache as the humans try to survive against the alien invaders.
The raptors continue to find new and terrifying ways to capture the surviving humans. We get to witness the coming together of the quite "super spy" Devlin and Taylor, captured behind emeny lines they can't fight the heat building between them. It was great to watch these two fight to save each other while still fighting what they felt. Warriors to the core.
These books continue to grip me and have me devouring every word. In this book we see more heroics and heartache as the humans try to survive against the alien invaders.
The raptors continue to find new and terrifying ways to capture the surviving humans. We get to witness the coming together of the quite "super spy" Devlin and Taylor, captured behind emeny lines they can't fight the heat building between them. It was great to watch these two fight to save each other while still fighting what they felt. Warriors to the core.
April 9, 2021
Best one yet. Absolutely loved Taylor and Devlin. One of my Top 4 favorite couples in this series.
I love how brave and courageous she is not just in battle but with her heart as well. Something that's sadly missing from most of the ladies so far, especially the warrior/combat women.
Plus no stupid/reckless stunts in a misguided attempt at trying to prove herself or playing the martyr... they always make me angry to the point that I've started to knock off points in my reviews because of it.
And the ending... *melt*
I love how brave and courageous she is not just in battle but with her heart as well. Something that's sadly missing from most of the ladies so far, especially the warrior/combat women.
Plus no stupid/reckless stunts in a misguided attempt at trying to prove herself or playing the martyr... they always make me angry to the point that I've started to knock off points in my reviews because of it.
And the ending... *melt*
January 28, 2023
Probably one of the best books in hell squad. Even when the story goes fast they have an undeniable chemistry.
First pages and the interlude between our h and h were hot, very.
Overall, these books are set in a post apocalypse world were aliens invaded us and a group of survivors are the main characters on every book.
So: action, multi and different couples... and I could add, in the previous books the plot seems significantly similar, around the #10 they start to have unique dynamics and you can see the author evolution in her writing.
First pages and the interlude between our h and h were hot, very.
Overall, these books are set in a post apocalypse world were aliens invaded us and a group of survivors are the main characters on every book.
So: action, multi and different couples... and I could add, in the previous books the plot seems significantly similar, around the #10 they start to have unique dynamics and you can see the author evolution in her writing.
April 28, 2025
I think Taylor and Devlins' story is definitely in my top 3!
The progression of the story took a bit of a bigger leap! more is happening with the aliens, and the action is more intense!
Devlin and Taylor's story start off being captured behind enemy lines, or the previous story ended with them being captured. Either way, they grow close and be gain intel on the aliens. all while fighting and sneaking around the alien factories trying to escape.
Their story is fun and action filled! I love how no nonsense but still fun-loving and risk tasking Taylor is!
The progression of the story took a bit of a bigger leap! more is happening with the aliens, and the action is more intense!
Devlin and Taylor's story start off being captured behind enemy lines, or the previous story ended with them being captured. Either way, they grow close and be gain intel on the aliens. all while fighting and sneaking around the alien factories trying to escape.
Their story is fun and action filled! I love how no nonsense but still fun-loving and risk tasking Taylor is!
December 19, 2016
This book is great! Lots of action, aliens and sexy, steamy romance.
You can read it as a stand alone book, but since I have read all of them, my suggestion is that you grab this one and then, when you can, start from the first one and read them all.
Ms Hackett has quickly become a world class author who I would compare to Nora Roberts. Her books aren't as long, but the price is much more affordable.
I Highly Recommend this Book and Author!
You can read it as a stand alone book, but since I have read all of them, my suggestion is that you grab this one and then, when you can, start from the first one and read them all.
Ms Hackett has quickly become a world class author who I would compare to Nora Roberts. Her books aren't as long, but the price is much more affordable.
I Highly Recommend this Book and Author!
August 30, 2018
Love Taylor
Ok. There are a lot of tough females in this series. It's why I love it so much. Thank you Anna Hackett for giving us strong female leads. Devlin is awesome. He can fight. He can love. Taylor reminds him how to be a friend and lover. She never gives up. She suffered a lot at a young age but she came out of it stronger, braver, and I think more caring. Dev is learning to laugh, to love, and how to not be alone. Together these two could defeat the Gizzida!!
Ok. There are a lot of tough females in this series. It's why I love it so much. Thank you Anna Hackett for giving us strong female leads. Devlin is awesome. He can fight. He can love. Taylor reminds him how to be a friend and lover. She never gives up. She suffered a lot at a young age but she came out of it stronger, braver, and I think more caring. Dev is learning to laugh, to love, and how to not be alone. Together these two could defeat the Gizzida!!
March 28, 2021
Hoo boy, what a setup! Devlin has been a bit of a mystery to now, so the dramatic start was a great re-introduction to his character, as well as some stressful circumstances in which to bond with Taylor. Again, I love the world building, the fight for humanity is an extremely compelling backdrop, and it remains a treat to see previous leading couples living out their HEA in the midst of the end of the world.
October 1, 2025
One of the better part of the series.
Lots of excitement and didn't get too weighed down with over description. Can see traces of different sci-fi movies in this series but the author adds twists to kind make it her own. Again the love story part was pretty much the same as the other characters in the other books. It was nice that one of the characters was willing to take risks. The action is good.
Lots of excitement and didn't get too weighed down with over description. Can see traces of different sci-fi movies in this series but the author adds twists to kind make it her own. Again the love story part was pretty much the same as the other characters in the other books. It was nice that one of the characters was willing to take risks. The action is good.
January 21, 2019
Sexy and fast paced
Sexy and fast paced, Dev and Taylor’s story sucked my in from the very first word, and held me hostage until the very last. The fight scenes were so intense and unexpected, and the characters back stories were hearts wrenching. All around, the story was definitely top notch!
Sexy and fast paced, Dev and Taylor’s story sucked my in from the very first word, and held me hostage until the very last. The fight scenes were so intense and unexpected, and the characters back stories were hearts wrenching. All around, the story was definitely top notch!
July 4, 2019
Devlin and Taylor
Devlin super spy and Taylor from Squad 6 work together on a recon mission and end up in the fight of their life. Taylor lives life to the fullest while Dev holds himself apart from everyone. Devlin will have to find the courage to love or be alone forever and Taylor is willing to fight for their love.
Devlin super spy and Taylor from Squad 6 work together on a recon mission and end up in the fight of their life. Taylor lives life to the fullest while Dev holds himself apart from everyone. Devlin will have to find the courage to love or be alone forever and Taylor is willing to fight for their love.
October 28, 2019
Wow! What a great read!
What a powerful read!! We see Devlin and Taylor on a dangerous mission in the heart of alien territory. They are seeking information about the new weapon the aliens are intending to use on humans. Taylor and Devlin learn more about what the aliens have created and hidden and about themselves. A tense and fabulous read!!
What a powerful read!! We see Devlin and Taylor on a dangerous mission in the heart of alien territory. They are seeking information about the new weapon the aliens are intending to use on humans. Taylor and Devlin learn more about what the aliens have created and hidden and about themselves. A tense and fabulous read!!
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