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A Bree and Tanner Thriller #1
Calculated Risk
She thought she was finally safe,
But her past won’t let her go.
Sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey is just doing his job when he stops a shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something about this frightened young woman makes him want to do more. Bree Daniels is grateful for Tanner’s help, but there’s so much she can never tell him… The truth is dangerous to everyone she lets into her life—and could be lethal to Tanner.
But her past won’t let her go.
Sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey is just doing his job when he stops a shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something about this frightened young woman makes him want to do more. Bree Daniels is grateful for Tanner’s help, but there’s so much she can never tell him… The truth is dangerous to everyone she lets into her life—and could be lethal to Tanner.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2019
221 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Janie Crouch
278 books2,031 followersUSA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
October 6, 2022
Bethany was a child prodigy when she was recruited by the Organization to work on their computer programs. When she realized that they were using her gift for nefarious purposes, she destroys her work and went into hiding. Now calling herself Bree Daniels, she lives a quiet life while staying off the grid. When her cousin, who was also part of the group, finds Bree and asks her to take her newborn twins somewhere safe while she brings down the Organization, Bree agrees. Bree and the children flee to Colorado where she quickly runs out of money. When Sheriff's Deputy Tanner Dempsey observes her shoplifting diapers and formula, he can't bring himself to arrest her. Instead, he offers her the help she needs.
This is the first book I've read by this author. I found it very entertaining with lots of action and suspense. I plan to continue the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This is the first book I've read by this author. I found it very entertaining with lots of action and suspense. I plan to continue the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
July 6, 2019
Fantastic book with a frighteningly believable premise. Bree is a brilliant woman with a knack for computers. She has been in hiding for years after escaping from a terrorist organization that had been grooming her to work for them since she was a child. When she realized what they were doing, she destroyed what she could and ran. She keeps a low profile and moves often. But when a blast from her past arrives with a warning and a plea, Bree knows she has to run again. This time she has the added complication of her cousin's newborn twins whom she has to protect. Completely overwhelmed and out of her element, Bree eventually ends up in Risk Peak, where she is caught trying to steal diapers and formula.
Tanner is a law-and-order guy, but he can't bring himself to arrest the desperate looking young woman. He can tell she is running from trouble, something he doesn't want coming to his town, but he still wants to help her. I liked what he did for her, even though he hoped she would keep going on out of town.
There is an instant attraction between Bree and Tanner, but there is also suspicion and distrust. Bree hasn't trusted anyone in years, always aware that word of her whereabouts could get back to The Organization at any time. Bree is very self-contained, doesn't share her feelings with anyone, and keeps everyone at a distance. Tanner is suspicious of Bree from the moment they met, more so when she resists any attempt to unlock her secrets. As Bree is taken in by the town and given the help she needs but doesn't want to admit, Tanner realizes that Bree is more in trouble than trouble itself. He can't stop thinking about her and worrying about her, even while suspicious. He's determined to wait her out, using kindness and patience to work past her walls. I liked that Bree was able to trust Tanner enough to ask for help when she needed it. Working together allowed them to get to know more about each other and become friends. It's easy to see that there is the potential for more, but there is no rush to declare love. With a four book series with the same couple, there is a much more realistic feel to the progression of their feelings.
The suspense of the story is gripping and scarily believable. A terrorist organization has plans to dominate the world, and they are going to use people's cellphones to do it. As a child, Bree's computer brilliance was used to advance the software to do it, but when she eventually realized what they were doing, she took steps to stop them. However, they want her and her brilliant mind back in their clutches. Bree is determined to stop them, and the intensity of the story builds as she races against time to find a way to do so. I loved seeing how Tanner stepped up to help, also getting his Special Forces brother Noah to help. I liked the connections to both the Linear Tactical and Omega Sector books. There are some hair-raising twists and turns on the way to the final confrontation. I loved the brilliance and strength that Bree exhibited as she faced off against her nemesis. The ending was immensely satisfying and left me wanting to see more of Bree and Tanner.
I loved the small town of Risk Peak and the way that the people look out for each other. Tanner showed it by his determination to keep his town safe from trouble. I loved the café owners, Dan and Cheryl, and the way they took Bree and the twins in, no questions asked. It was fun to see how the townspeople would congregate in the café just to play with the twins. I laughed out loud at the hell they put Tanner through when they thought he ran Bree out of town.
Tanner is a law-and-order guy, but he can't bring himself to arrest the desperate looking young woman. He can tell she is running from trouble, something he doesn't want coming to his town, but he still wants to help her. I liked what he did for her, even though he hoped she would keep going on out of town.
There is an instant attraction between Bree and Tanner, but there is also suspicion and distrust. Bree hasn't trusted anyone in years, always aware that word of her whereabouts could get back to The Organization at any time. Bree is very self-contained, doesn't share her feelings with anyone, and keeps everyone at a distance. Tanner is suspicious of Bree from the moment they met, more so when she resists any attempt to unlock her secrets. As Bree is taken in by the town and given the help she needs but doesn't want to admit, Tanner realizes that Bree is more in trouble than trouble itself. He can't stop thinking about her and worrying about her, even while suspicious. He's determined to wait her out, using kindness and patience to work past her walls. I liked that Bree was able to trust Tanner enough to ask for help when she needed it. Working together allowed them to get to know more about each other and become friends. It's easy to see that there is the potential for more, but there is no rush to declare love. With a four book series with the same couple, there is a much more realistic feel to the progression of their feelings.
The suspense of the story is gripping and scarily believable. A terrorist organization has plans to dominate the world, and they are going to use people's cellphones to do it. As a child, Bree's computer brilliance was used to advance the software to do it, but when she eventually realized what they were doing, she took steps to stop them. However, they want her and her brilliant mind back in their clutches. Bree is determined to stop them, and the intensity of the story builds as she races against time to find a way to do so. I loved seeing how Tanner stepped up to help, also getting his Special Forces brother Noah to help. I liked the connections to both the Linear Tactical and Omega Sector books. There are some hair-raising twists and turns on the way to the final confrontation. I loved the brilliance and strength that Bree exhibited as she faced off against her nemesis. The ending was immensely satisfying and left me wanting to see more of Bree and Tanner.
I loved the small town of Risk Peak and the way that the people look out for each other. Tanner showed it by his determination to keep his town safe from trouble. I loved the café owners, Dan and Cheryl, and the way they took Bree and the twins in, no questions asked. It was fun to see how the townspeople would congregate in the café just to play with the twins. I laughed out loud at the hell they put Tanner through when they thought he ran Bree out of town.
June 29, 2019
Calculated Risk is the start of a new four-book series and if this book is anything to go by, this series is going to be off the charts amazing! This is a fast-paced read that sucks you in from the first page. There is plenty of excitement and a in this thrilling adventure. The characters are down to earth and likeable and Janie Crouch crafts a wonderful storyline. It is well-written with a continuous buildup of suspense and keeps you engaged until the end. I could not turn the pages fast enough in this story.
The dynamic between Tanner and Bree was wonderful. It doesn't start off as an instant romance. Instead it starts with suspicion and distrust between the two of them that slowly grows into something akin to friendship. And when the ball drops and the cards need to be laid out on the table, it evolves into a hopeful potential for a future romance.
CALCULATED RISK is a story of suspense, intrigue, betrayal and power. The premise is captivating and compelling; the romance is subtle, and the characters are energetic and dynamic. A fantastic start to a new series!
The dynamic between Tanner and Bree was wonderful. It doesn't start off as an instant romance. Instead it starts with suspicion and distrust between the two of them that slowly grows into something akin to friendship. And when the ball drops and the cards need to be laid out on the table, it evolves into a hopeful potential for a future romance.
CALCULATED RISK is a story of suspense, intrigue, betrayal and power. The premise is captivating and compelling; the romance is subtle, and the characters are energetic and dynamic. A fantastic start to a new series!
June 17, 2019
If your not already a huge fan of Janie Crouch...you don't know what your missing!! Calculated Risk is the first in a series that will feature one couple, Bree, a socially awkward tech genius and Tanner, a dedicated law enforcement officer. For those that hate cliffhangers...don't shy away from this book. The author ties things up but still leaves the door open for the next book. What's so great about this series is that we get to grow with the characters, to really become invested in who they are and who they will become. I'm already in love with Tanner and Bree but I'm also equally in love with the first book's plot. Its unique, smart and has a cinematic quality that will most assuredly capture your interest. I think sustaining a series with one couple would be a daunting task but Janie hit the first book out of the park and I'm super confident that each book in the series will surpass the next. Janie always delivers memorable characters and I am super excited to see how she develops a couple outside the confines of one book. Not many authors could tackle a project like this but Janie is one of them. The next book can't come quick enough!!
June 15, 2019
Calculated Risk kicks off a new series whose focus will be on the same couple throughout. Bree (aka Bethany) is a girl on the run from a shady organization. She has hid successfully for years until a ghost from her past shows up and throws her world into a tailspin. She takes off again, this time with twin newborns in tow and ends up in Risk Peak Colorado. Here, she meets lots of great people who are willing to help her and one stubborn cop who is sure she is hiding something.
Tanner is a suspicious sort of fella. He can see that Bree is in some kind of trouble. What he doesn't know is what that trouble is: mafia, gambling debt, abusive husband. His fear is that Bree is going to bring trouble right to their tiny town's door and that is not okay with him. He keeps an eye on Bree and soon gets caught up in her life, even though Bree won't tell him what is going on! I liked that Tanner was suspicious. I think that was more realistic than a guy who just sees a woman he has feelings for and assumes she is NOT trouble. Wondering if she did something illegal and that is why she is on the run is realistic to me! Don't assume because she is a woman that she must be a victim.
Bree is brilliant but also VERY naive. I feel like there is a lot more to her story, so I am glad the rest of series continues to focus on these 2 characters. I also loved the nods to other series by Crouch since I have adored all her books. Calculated Risk has no sex at all; the only intimate times involve some kissing. Again, this felt more realistic to me-the slow build of a relationship. So, Calculated Risk is MOM APPROVED!! I do think this series is one my mom would enjoy.
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: on the run, secret identity, police
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
romantic suspense authors like Katie Reus, Nicole Helm, Kaylea Cross...then you will probably like Calculated Risk!
Calculated Risk
See full review on The Book Disciple
June 15, 2019
4.5 stars
Calculated Risk was a race from the start and had me turning pages as fast as my fingers could handle! I loved Bree and Tanner’s sweet chemistry and thought the infant twins in Bree’s care were a cute touch. The townsfolk of Risk Peak were a friendly and very overprotective bunch, and I was cracking up over the town’s reaction when Tanner made a very...unpopular...decision regarding Bree.
However, the suspense! The suspense definitely wins the cake over the romance this go around! Crouch did a wonderful job with the build up of the villain’s twisted communications plot and delivered a satisfying result. Because of her wild scheming, Janie even had me giving my phone a side eye a time or two! Then again, I’m also convinced Alexa is secretly listening when she randomly speaks in a silent house...
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Calculated Risk was a race from the start and had me turning pages as fast as my fingers could handle! I loved Bree and Tanner’s sweet chemistry and thought the infant twins in Bree’s care were a cute touch. The townsfolk of Risk Peak were a friendly and very overprotective bunch, and I was cracking up over the town’s reaction when Tanner made a very...unpopular...decision regarding Bree.
However, the suspense! The suspense definitely wins the cake over the romance this go around! Crouch did a wonderful job with the build up of the villain’s twisted communications plot and delivered a satisfying result. Because of her wild scheming, Janie even had me giving my phone a side eye a time or two! Then again, I’m also convinced Alexa is secretly listening when she randomly speaks in a silent house...
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 13, 2019
Sometimes doing what's right and following the law are two different things. Doing the right thing for Bree pulls Tanner into a web of danger where not everyone is as pure, or as evil, as they seem to be. And that's what makes this book chilling. I read it in one sitting.
June 25, 2019
4 stars—
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2019
She thought she was finally safe,
But her past won’t let her go.
Sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey is just doing his job when he stops a shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something about this frightened young woman makes him want to do more. Bree Daniels is grateful for Tanner’s help, but there’s so much she can never tell him… The truth is dangerous to everyone she lets into her life—and could be lethal to Tanner.
•••••••
REVIEW: CALCULATED RISK is the first instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult BREE AND TANNER THRILLER romantic, suspense series focusing on thirty-three year old, sheriff’s deputy captain Tanner Dempsey, and twenty-four year old, computer genius Bree Daniels aka Bethany Malone. There is a slight cross-over with the author’s Linear Tactical series.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Bree and Tanner) CALCULATED RISK follows Bree Daniels, a young woman on the run, but a woman whose life is about to become more complicated. A secret message begging for help finds Bree in possession of her cousin Melissa Weathers’ twins, as she struggles to find food and shelter before it’s too late. Enter Risk Peak, Colorado’s sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey, and the man with whom Bree will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Bree and Tanner, and the potential fall-out as Bree’s past demands payment and more.
Bree Daniels’ has never known peace and quiet. A child genius and prodigy Bree would become the pawn for a terrorist ‘Organization’ determined to control the world by funnelling information to radical groups and revolutionary governments. When Melissa begs for help, Bree knows her whereabouts and safety have been compromised again. Tanner Dempsey knows Bree is lying about the who, how and why of her current circumstance but the people of Risk Peak take Bree under their wing in an attempt to protect a young woman who would become their own.
The relationship between Bree and Tanner is one of immediate attraction but Bree is in no place to start a relationship or fall in love. Tanner wants nothing more than to protect the woman with whom he will fall in love but a woman whose secrets are about to come crashing into the town of Risk Peak, Colorado. There are no $ex scenes-at this point their relationship is only beginning.
We are introduced to a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters: Bree’s cousin Melissa Weathers, and her twins Christian and Beth; Tanner’s brother former Special Forces soldier Noah Dempsey; Linear tactical security specilists Zac Mackay, and Gavin Zimmerman; sheriff’s deputy Ronnie Kitchens ; sheriff’s inter-county task force on communications member Scott Watson ; construction worker Bill Steele; owners of the Sunset Diner Cheryl and Dan Andrews; Organization head Michael Jeter.
CALCULATED RISK is a story of suspense, intrigue, betrayal and power. The premise is captivating and compelling; the romance is subtle; the characters are energetic and dynamic. CALCULATED RISK is a fantastic start to a new series.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2019
She thought she was finally safe,
But her past won’t let her go.
Sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey is just doing his job when he stops a shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something about this frightened young woman makes him want to do more. Bree Daniels is grateful for Tanner’s help, but there’s so much she can never tell him… The truth is dangerous to everyone she lets into her life—and could be lethal to Tanner.
•••••••
REVIEW: CALCULATED RISK is the first instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult BREE AND TANNER THRILLER romantic, suspense series focusing on thirty-three year old, sheriff’s deputy captain Tanner Dempsey, and twenty-four year old, computer genius Bree Daniels aka Bethany Malone. There is a slight cross-over with the author’s Linear Tactical series.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Bree and Tanner) CALCULATED RISK follows Bree Daniels, a young woman on the run, but a woman whose life is about to become more complicated. A secret message begging for help finds Bree in possession of her cousin Melissa Weathers’ twins, as she struggles to find food and shelter before it’s too late. Enter Risk Peak, Colorado’s sheriff’s deputy Tanner Dempsey, and the man with whom Bree will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Bree and Tanner, and the potential fall-out as Bree’s past demands payment and more.
Bree Daniels’ has never known peace and quiet. A child genius and prodigy Bree would become the pawn for a terrorist ‘Organization’ determined to control the world by funnelling information to radical groups and revolutionary governments. When Melissa begs for help, Bree knows her whereabouts and safety have been compromised again. Tanner Dempsey knows Bree is lying about the who, how and why of her current circumstance but the people of Risk Peak take Bree under their wing in an attempt to protect a young woman who would become their own.
The relationship between Bree and Tanner is one of immediate attraction but Bree is in no place to start a relationship or fall in love. Tanner wants nothing more than to protect the woman with whom he will fall in love but a woman whose secrets are about to come crashing into the town of Risk Peak, Colorado. There are no $ex scenes-at this point their relationship is only beginning.
We are introduced to a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters: Bree’s cousin Melissa Weathers, and her twins Christian and Beth; Tanner’s brother former Special Forces soldier Noah Dempsey; Linear tactical security specilists Zac Mackay, and Gavin Zimmerman; sheriff’s deputy Ronnie Kitchens ; sheriff’s inter-county task force on communications member Scott Watson ; construction worker Bill Steele; owners of the Sunset Diner Cheryl and Dan Andrews; Organization head Michael Jeter.
CALCULATED RISK is a story of suspense, intrigue, betrayal and power. The premise is captivating and compelling; the romance is subtle; the characters are energetic and dynamic. CALCULATED RISK is a fantastic start to a new series.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
June 23, 2019
This story is a conspiracy theorist's dream.
It is severely intense, from the very beginning it is spellbinding with its tension, riveting with the palpable fear, and the possibilities of the unimaginable terror that keeps constantly playing at the edge of the mind while reading... Oh my.
The tale has a smooth flow, it has chemistry, it has intriguing characters, plenty of action and suspense, the again -- intensity, the power of this story is in its intensive and impressive fierceness.
And I like the small town vibe the story has, how they all stand together for one of their own.
As the story was unfolding I was fascinated to see how the organization and people behind it would give themselves out, how the plot would play out, what was going to happen, who was going to survive... The story took hold of me from the very first scene and kept it, and I'm looking forward to more in the next installment of this fiery series.
Would I have wished there was more romance -- yes, but the story between Tanner Dempsey and Bree Daniels will continue to develop from here through the four books of the series. The only constant throughout the series is the couple, the trouble they face and the crimes they solve are new in each book, so no cliffhangers. The chemistry between them was hot, the connection was believable and the interest to learn more about their journey, and watch them grow in their relationship is definitely there, high, and arising.
For the first time, while reading a suspense story, I didn't even stop to wonder if everything that was happening was believable or not. There was no need to, since the story was moving forward with such potent, compelling speed, that I didn't care to wonder about anything, just holding on to my seat to stay on the wild ride.
It was fast, entertaining, edgy, and even a bit adorable and ardent, filled with twists, and the awareness level dial set to the maximum so that I might now be slightly paranoid myself, too.
Delightfully vigorous suspense and a marvelous start of an epic love story delivering pure unputdownable entertainment!
~ Five Spoons!
It is severely intense, from the very beginning it is spellbinding with its tension, riveting with the palpable fear, and the possibilities of the unimaginable terror that keeps constantly playing at the edge of the mind while reading... Oh my.
The tale has a smooth flow, it has chemistry, it has intriguing characters, plenty of action and suspense, the again -- intensity, the power of this story is in its intensive and impressive fierceness.
And I like the small town vibe the story has, how they all stand together for one of their own.
As the story was unfolding I was fascinated to see how the organization and people behind it would give themselves out, how the plot would play out, what was going to happen, who was going to survive... The story took hold of me from the very first scene and kept it, and I'm looking forward to more in the next installment of this fiery series.
Would I have wished there was more romance -- yes, but the story between Tanner Dempsey and Bree Daniels will continue to develop from here through the four books of the series. The only constant throughout the series is the couple, the trouble they face and the crimes they solve are new in each book, so no cliffhangers. The chemistry between them was hot, the connection was believable and the interest to learn more about their journey, and watch them grow in their relationship is definitely there, high, and arising.
For the first time, while reading a suspense story, I didn't even stop to wonder if everything that was happening was believable or not. There was no need to, since the story was moving forward with such potent, compelling speed, that I didn't care to wonder about anything, just holding on to my seat to stay on the wild ride.
It was fast, entertaining, edgy, and even a bit adorable and ardent, filled with twists, and the awareness level dial set to the maximum so that I might now be slightly paranoid myself, too.
Delightfully vigorous suspense and a marvelous start of an epic love story delivering pure unputdownable entertainment!
~ Five Spoons!
August 9, 2019
Bree Daniels has been living off the grid ever since she escaped from The Organization with her mother when she was a child. They wanted her for her hacker skills. The Organization is not what it seems, and they use the Communication for All Charity Group for nefarious purposes. One night she is given her cousin’s twin infants to take care of as they are in danger. Now afraid she will be found, Bree goes on the run. She is good at that. Eventually she ends up at Risk’s Peak. She is running low on cash and tries to shoplift formula and diapers. Sheriff’s Deputy Tanner Dempsey feels sorry for her and instead of arresting her, pays for the items. He sees that Bree looks tired and hungry and tells her to go to the Sunrise Diner for some food and put it on his tab. Bree is exhausted and stops for just a little while. She nearly passes out and the owners offer her food and a place to stay. Cheryl and Dan Andrews are the owners of the diner and offer Bree a job and a place to stay. She hoped that she had some time to lay low before she had to leave again. She was afraid that Tanner, the Andrews and the other town folks would be hurt by The Organization as they hunted her. Bree and the twins are accepted and protected by Tanner, the Andrews, the townsfolk and Tanner’s Special Forces friends as they work to bring down The Organization.
Wow, this was some story. It was fast paced and suspenseful. I couldn’t put the book down. I felt sad when Bree tells Tanner about what she went through in her childhood while with the Organization and what her life was like with her mother once they escaped. Tanner is patient and protective of Bree and the twins. Soon she begins to trust him but is still fearful that he will be hurt when they come after her. I liked how the town embraced and protected Bree and the twins too. The other characters in the book add to the suspense in the story. Ms Crouch has us looking at them with suspicion until it is revealed whether they are friend or foe. This is the first book in this series and I absolutely can not wait until the next books in this series.
Wow, this was some story. It was fast paced and suspenseful. I couldn’t put the book down. I felt sad when Bree tells Tanner about what she went through in her childhood while with the Organization and what her life was like with her mother once they escaped. Tanner is patient and protective of Bree and the twins. Soon she begins to trust him but is still fearful that he will be hurt when they come after her. I liked how the town embraced and protected Bree and the twins too. The other characters in the book add to the suspense in the story. Ms Crouch has us looking at them with suspicion until it is revealed whether they are friend or foe. This is the first book in this series and I absolutely can not wait until the next books in this series.
June 19, 2019
Calculated Risk by Janie Crouch is book 1 in a new series "A Bree and Tanner Thriller". Bree is a girl on the run from this shady organization. She had hid pretty well for years until a ghost from her past showed up and left her life in a complete mess. Bree took off running again, this time with twin newborns with her and ends up in Risk Peak, Colorado. It here she meets lots of lovely people who are willing to help her--- yet for one stubborn cop who is bound and determined to prove she is hiding something. Tanner can look right at Bree and see she is in trouble yet she won't tell him what kind of trouble she is in. So he can only imagine what kind and boy he lets his mind go there.. he worries that her troubles will come to his town's doorstep and that isn't their problem. He starts following her or as he terms it "keeping an eye on" and then Tanner begins to see Bree in a different light. But still he wonders why is she running from her past and what troubles is she in?
Bree is a beautiful and sweet woman who had a pretty bad situation in her past. Without giving anything away from the story, my heart hurt for her. She was trying to do the right thing for the babies and to have Tanner treat her like a criminal drove me nuts. Their story was a slow burn and soon Tanner goes from being suspicious to protective and wooing Bree. Without giving anymore of the book away, I enjoyed the characters and the sweet chemistry. I liked knowing that, even know this is a HFN that we will get another book with Bree and Tanner so their love story isn't over. It's just starting. Good start to a great new series.
My Rating: 4.4 stars *******
Bree is a beautiful and sweet woman who had a pretty bad situation in her past. Without giving anything away from the story, my heart hurt for her. She was trying to do the right thing for the babies and to have Tanner treat her like a criminal drove me nuts. Their story was a slow burn and soon Tanner goes from being suspicious to protective and wooing Bree. Without giving anymore of the book away, I enjoyed the characters and the sweet chemistry. I liked knowing that, even know this is a HFN that we will get another book with Bree and Tanner so their love story isn't over. It's just starting. Good start to a great new series.
My Rating: 4.4 stars *******
July 2, 2019
An amazing read about a woman, Bree, on the run for her life and those of her baby cousins and lands in a small town where the residents take her in, except for the Tanner, a Sheriff’s Deputy. His wary of the newcomer and is worried about the small town, including Bree and the trouble she could be in. When it all comes to a head, will he believe her or walk away.
An amazing read that had me on the edge of my seat with the suspense and I LOVED the surprise near the end when all is revealed as to who is who and why they kept an eye on her. Even though there were no steamy scenes, I didn’t miss it and the sparks were still there between the two lighting up the pages...oh my. I can’t wait for the next one!!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
An amazing read that had me on the edge of my seat with the suspense and I LOVED the surprise near the end when all is revealed as to who is who and why they kept an eye on her. Even though there were no steamy scenes, I didn’t miss it and the sparks were still there between the two lighting up the pages...oh my. I can’t wait for the next one!!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
March 31, 2020
I love this series by Janie Crouch! I started it on book four and I'm so glad I went back and started it at the beginning. This was another devour it in one night kind of book and while I'm a little tired this morning, it was totally worth it!
I love Bree. She's the perfect heroine in that she's tough, knows she has to be strong, doesn't complain, and just gets things done. She might need a little help to do it, but it isn't because she didn't try.
Tanner. Sigh. A definite good guy who's willing to do anything to help Bree and her babies, regardless of how she came to be in Risk Peak.
I love that this series is a slow burn and that I always have another one to look forward to. If you love Harlequin Intrigues then you definitely want to start the Risk Series today!
I love Bree. She's the perfect heroine in that she's tough, knows she has to be strong, doesn't complain, and just gets things done. She might need a little help to do it, but it isn't because she didn't try.
Tanner. Sigh. A definite good guy who's willing to do anything to help Bree and her babies, regardless of how she came to be in Risk Peak.
I love that this series is a slow burn and that I always have another one to look forward to. If you love Harlequin Intrigues then you definitely want to start the Risk Series today!
June 21, 2019
I have adored Janie Crouch’s Linear Tactical series, so I was excited to try a new series by her. Especially a series where we’ll get to see the same characters book after book.
The plot follows a small town sheriff who runs into a down on her luck single mother. His Spidey senses tingle, in more than the romantic way, and Sheriff Dempsey finds himself in the middle of something far greater than his small town. The twists and turns the plot provides are amazing and keep the reader on their toes.
Bree is a bright and loyal woman hiding from a crazy past. She has so many secrets upon secrets to deal with it. Tanner is not only a good guy in a small town, he’s a family man with an amazing set of loyalty and morals. The characters in this story were so much more than just Bree and Tanner. The townspeople and town itself play such an important role to the story!
Tanner seems to fall for the shoplifting Bree right away. Bree has had less relationship experience, and her life has led her to not want any… But neither seems to be able to stay away from the other. And despite the crazy mystery and circumstances thrown in their way, they can’t stay away from each other. Their chemistry makes the romance part of this story work so well. It’s not forced, it fits in with the plot and adds to it well.
This was the perfect blend of romance and mystery. Just enough of both to keep the other in check. I read it quite quickly and was able to keep it all straight while reading. It was fun to see a few cameo’s by Linear Tactical characters.
I can’t wait to see what else these two have in store. Because I’m sure these two are the sort of people that have things happen to them without them meaning to. Though I hope we also get to read about a story about Noah soon!
Star Ratings:
Plot = 4/5 Characters = 4/5 Heat = 4/5 Writing Style = 4/5 Overall Rating = 4/5
The plot follows a small town sheriff who runs into a down on her luck single mother. His Spidey senses tingle, in more than the romantic way, and Sheriff Dempsey finds himself in the middle of something far greater than his small town. The twists and turns the plot provides are amazing and keep the reader on their toes.
Bree is a bright and loyal woman hiding from a crazy past. She has so many secrets upon secrets to deal with it. Tanner is not only a good guy in a small town, he’s a family man with an amazing set of loyalty and morals. The characters in this story were so much more than just Bree and Tanner. The townspeople and town itself play such an important role to the story!
Tanner seems to fall for the shoplifting Bree right away. Bree has had less relationship experience, and her life has led her to not want any… But neither seems to be able to stay away from the other. And despite the crazy mystery and circumstances thrown in their way, they can’t stay away from each other. Their chemistry makes the romance part of this story work so well. It’s not forced, it fits in with the plot and adds to it well.
This was the perfect blend of romance and mystery. Just enough of both to keep the other in check. I read it quite quickly and was able to keep it all straight while reading. It was fun to see a few cameo’s by Linear Tactical characters.
I can’t wait to see what else these two have in store. Because I’m sure these two are the sort of people that have things happen to them without them meaning to. Though I hope we also get to read about a story about Noah soon!
Star Ratings:
Plot = 4/5 Characters = 4/5 Heat = 4/5 Writing Style = 4/5 Overall Rating = 4/5
January 20, 2020
3.5 stars! I enjoyed it! I could see something like this happening in the real world!
May 30, 2019
With all Harlequin Intrigue series the stories are fast paced, backgrounds have to be filled in though out the story. Bree background is interesting and while the author had only so many words to fill in her background I wish she had more space to fill in Bree and her Moms life. Sometimes Bree's actions fit the story line and other times it feels like something is missing.
Tanner is a protector and wants to help while romancing a woman he find to be trouble. He is your typical Harlequin Alpha male.
I loved the company that is able to find anyone using a smart phone and what their plans are for the future. The ending is fast pace and ends. Leaving readers either wishing there were more pages or future stories of Bree and Tanner.
The new mom part of the story is true including the sleepless lights and falling asleep anywhere and everywhere. The supporting characters are will written each with a purpose and a reason for being in the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Harlequin Intrigue for the advance copy Janie Crouch Calculated Risk.
(Summer is here and so are my kids. I can't find a place to hid and write review without them finding and talking my ear off. Please forgive the grammar and spelling errors. If they are bad let me know.)
Tanner is a protector and wants to help while romancing a woman he find to be trouble. He is your typical Harlequin Alpha male.
I loved the company that is able to find anyone using a smart phone and what their plans are for the future. The ending is fast pace and ends. Leaving readers either wishing there were more pages or future stories of Bree and Tanner.
The new mom part of the story is true including the sleepless lights and falling asleep anywhere and everywhere. The supporting characters are will written each with a purpose and a reason for being in the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Harlequin Intrigue for the advance copy Janie Crouch Calculated Risk.
(Summer is here and so are my kids. I can't find a place to hid and write review without them finding and talking my ear off. Please forgive the grammar and spelling errors. If they are bad let me know.)
June 3, 2019
What a brilliant book Bree & Tanners story is spellbinding. The twins are cuties and it was great to see other characters from previous books being mentioned & appearing . Definitely a great read and a must for all Janie fans . I can’t wait for the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2021
I wanted to check out this series after Bree and Tanner showed up in a Linear Tactical book. This one really kept me guess and on the edge of my seat. I liked Bree from the start and hated how she was on the run. Seeing her cousin again seemed good at first, but it brought lots of complications. I was stunned with what Melissa left for Bree to do and look after. It made sense, but what a tough decision to make. I was so happy when Bree took a chance and let Tanner in, of course it helped that he backed her into it by spying on her and catching her right at the time when the bad guys were there.
The plan they came up to finally end things was a good one, just needed a happen perfectly. Sadly that didn't happen, but they were still able to do what needed to be done. I really liked the ending to this one, mostly because I wanted Bree to finally have a place to be welcomed and safe and with Tanner and the town she did.
The plan they came up to finally end things was a good one, just needed a happen perfectly. Sadly that didn't happen, but they were still able to do what needed to be done. I really liked the ending to this one, mostly because I wanted Bree to finally have a place to be welcomed and safe and with Tanner and the town she did.
July 8, 2019
⊰ 💻
2.5 stars
📱⊱This was definitely a 𝐼𝓉’𝓈 𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 , 𝐼𝓉’𝓈 𝓂𝑒. I should have realized this was going to be a series about the same couple. My bad!...I have read his kind of series before so that’s not the problem. The thing is, if I read one of these I expect to be left at the end of the book wanting to read the next one. And sadly, it didn’t happen here. One of the main reasons was the romance. This is supposed to be romantic suspense but I felt more the suspense/mystery than the romance. Yeah, I know maybe it will come with more force in the next books but I just wanted a little more effort in this one, the first in the series. Maybe because of that I couldn’t really connect with the characters. I didn’t especially like either of them. ᴛᴀɴɴᴇʀ was your typical good guy with a chip on his shoulder: his father’s dead at the hands of a teen he wanted to save. So at first he is suspicious of Bree. I expected that to have more room in the book. It’s not like I want an over-the-top drama but his suspicions disappeared pretty fast. About ʙʀᴇᴇ, at first I thought she was going to be a little more badass, at least that was what I understood with the first paragraphs. Yeah, we are told how socially awkward she is because of the life she has had since she was fourteen. Still, I expected a wee bit more from her. She only empowered herself towards the end of the book. I suspect her character will develop more in the next ones. Like I said, I’m the problem here it seems.Regarding the mystery, it was ok. I didn’t expect the bad guy being the goody-goody one. I should have known. And the creepy guy wasn’t that creepy. I should have known that too, it was not the obvious one. The only problem I had was that the “conflict” was easily solved. At least for me, it was. It seemed a little pointless all the grooving Bree did if she could have ended this earlier. I know, I know…she had to advance at her own pace; years of running away are not easily forgotten. Still, it should have been better if the resolution was a bit harder to achieve.Oh! I almost forgot, there were references and characters from an “Omega Sector”. I felt I was supposed to know them. It seems it’s another series from the author. It didn’t interfere with the current plot but like I said I felt I was supposed to know them.I might try next book, who knows...July 9, 2019
A favorite author of mine once again scores another suspenseful series and I am sitting back and enjoying the “ride”.
This starts a series of books involving/featuring the main characters Deputy Tanner Dempsey and Bree Daniels.
In the beginning of this Harlequin Intrigue story Bree Daniels was entrusted in protecting and caring for her cousins very young infant twins.
Bree Daniels knows nothing in caring for a child much less two infant babies.
Bree Daniels has been of the run for a couple of years, after escaping from a nefarious organization that was exploiting her skills as a hacker. The reason the organization continues to leave no stone unturned to try and recapture her is because of her incredible/exceptional hacking/coding skills.
Bree tries to stay incognito and under the wire using only cash for all her transactions, but her dwindling cash flow has come to a slow end.
Not realizing how much it cost for her to live and care for the twins she has been reduced to sneaking into hotels for “free” food and “borrowing” food/groceries from stores.
Desperate to “borrow” food from the store for formula and other necessities for the twins Deputy Tanner Dempsey observes her actions.
Instead of arresting her, Tanner purchases the items and tells her there are programs that can assist her in the care of her children.
Before driving off Tanner tells her to stop at the Sunrise Diner and grab a bite to eat and tell them to put it on his tab.
Tanner can’t shake the feeling that there is something that Bree is not telling him.
The plot thickens and the suspense is building non-stop.
As the weeks go by, staying under the wire, she is aided by Tanner and some of the citizens of the town.
The story will grab at you and as the spine tingling plot unfolds, you will be disappointed when you come to THE END of Calculated Risk.
This storyline will appeal to anyone any age who likes to read intrigue, suspense and romance in their books.
It will have you put on your thinking cap and try to figure out what is going on.
Oh yes, the icing on the cake is when Tanner makes a reference to the Omega Sector (from the Omega series).
While waiting to read the next book in this series be sure to check out the other series of books this talented author has written.
I have enjoyed reading all of this authors books—the Omega series, the Linear Tactical series (this series is taken up a notch and is still ongoing) and now the series featuring Tanner and Bree in the Harlequin Intrigue.
I truly enjoy reading her books and I am sure you will too.
Happy reading.
This starts a series of books involving/featuring the main characters Deputy Tanner Dempsey and Bree Daniels.
In the beginning of this Harlequin Intrigue story Bree Daniels was entrusted in protecting and caring for her cousins very young infant twins.
Bree Daniels knows nothing in caring for a child much less two infant babies.
Bree Daniels has been of the run for a couple of years, after escaping from a nefarious organization that was exploiting her skills as a hacker. The reason the organization continues to leave no stone unturned to try and recapture her is because of her incredible/exceptional hacking/coding skills.
Bree tries to stay incognito and under the wire using only cash for all her transactions, but her dwindling cash flow has come to a slow end.
Not realizing how much it cost for her to live and care for the twins she has been reduced to sneaking into hotels for “free” food and “borrowing” food/groceries from stores.
Desperate to “borrow” food from the store for formula and other necessities for the twins Deputy Tanner Dempsey observes her actions.
Instead of arresting her, Tanner purchases the items and tells her there are programs that can assist her in the care of her children.
Before driving off Tanner tells her to stop at the Sunrise Diner and grab a bite to eat and tell them to put it on his tab.
Tanner can’t shake the feeling that there is something that Bree is not telling him.
The plot thickens and the suspense is building non-stop.
As the weeks go by, staying under the wire, she is aided by Tanner and some of the citizens of the town.
The story will grab at you and as the spine tingling plot unfolds, you will be disappointed when you come to THE END of Calculated Risk.
This storyline will appeal to anyone any age who likes to read intrigue, suspense and romance in their books.
It will have you put on your thinking cap and try to figure out what is going on.
Oh yes, the icing on the cake is when Tanner makes a reference to the Omega Sector (from the Omega series).
While waiting to read the next book in this series be sure to check out the other series of books this talented author has written.
I have enjoyed reading all of this authors books—the Omega series, the Linear Tactical series (this series is taken up a notch and is still ongoing) and now the series featuring Tanner and Bree in the Harlequin Intrigue.
I truly enjoy reading her books and I am sure you will too.
Happy reading.
June 15, 2019
This was first published on my blog " Lecture toute une Aventure"
While the beginning was a bit slow in my opinion; oh not really lacking action as we are immediately in the heat of the action but we get too much missing info to immediately connect to the character, i really loved this book. The intrigue is interesting and believable , the characters are touching with their troubled quite secret past so we are easily won over. Bree is a courageous heroine, she spent most of her life on the run and thus she has trusting issues but deep down she will take risks for what she believes is right.
Tanner is a protective alpha....he is immediately drawn to Bree even more seeing how vulnerable she is and how lost she seems to be with the little babies in her arms. His instinct though is telling him that trouble are around and thus he must make choice.
I can't say a lot more to avoid spoiler but i sure like the people of the city and i couldn't resist smiling at Corfu's mentions hoping to hear more about the dog....even better we get a little mention of Omega team, the other series from Janie Crouch i really love and we see a bit of the team...very little since we focus on Bree and Tanner but it was very good to have the light link.
It's the first series of Janie that will focus only on one couple and i really can't wait to see more of Bree and Tanner and see how they "grow" together . It's really promising and i loved that there was not a cliffhanger, the intrigue of this book feel complete.
The only things i could put on the less good elements list is that i guessed one of the villains too easily ( but then i'm really good at this exercise and we only get confirmation later). And the fact that like i say the beginning is a bit slow/confusing with Bree but it's only the first chapters because after the pieces click together and we get a larger image of the situation and we are immersed into the story
All together it's a very good romance suspense, easily read , and a promising start of a series.
While the beginning was a bit slow in my opinion; oh not really lacking action as we are immediately in the heat of the action but we get too much missing info to immediately connect to the character, i really loved this book. The intrigue is interesting and believable , the characters are touching with their troubled quite secret past so we are easily won over. Bree is a courageous heroine, she spent most of her life on the run and thus she has trusting issues but deep down she will take risks for what she believes is right.
Tanner is a protective alpha....he is immediately drawn to Bree even more seeing how vulnerable she is and how lost she seems to be with the little babies in her arms. His instinct though is telling him that trouble are around and thus he must make choice.
I can't say a lot more to avoid spoiler but i sure like the people of the city and i couldn't resist smiling at Corfu's mentions hoping to hear more about the dog....even better we get a little mention of Omega team, the other series from Janie Crouch i really love and we see a bit of the team...very little since we focus on Bree and Tanner but it was very good to have the light link.
It's the first series of Janie that will focus only on one couple and i really can't wait to see more of Bree and Tanner and see how they "grow" together . It's really promising and i loved that there was not a cliffhanger, the intrigue of this book feel complete.
The only things i could put on the less good elements list is that i guessed one of the villains too easily ( but then i'm really good at this exercise and we only get confirmation later). And the fact that like i say the beginning is a bit slow/confusing with Bree but it's only the first chapters because after the pieces click together and we get a larger image of the situation and we are immersed into the story
All together it's a very good romance suspense, easily read , and a promising start of a series.
May 10, 2019
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
Bree Daniels could never be sure they would stop looking for her. She always plans her out. What she didn't plan on someone from her past finding her and asking her for help. Now she doesn't just have her own life riding on her skills of avoidance.
Sheriff’s captain Tanner Dempsey was just taking preventative measures when he stops a young female shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something isn't right with this frightened woman. Tanner can't help but want to solve her mystery, to keep his ton safe, of course.
Thoughts
I quite enjoyed the majority of this book. The idea of a young woman at her wits end, trying to hold it together for the good of others who are relying on her, with her being more or less rescued by the kind people of a small town is beautiful . And a police officer who is so protective of everyone under his care in the county he continually sticks his nose in the newcomer's business to only find a woman on the verge of an emotional collapse? Yeah. I liked it, not going to lie.
The dynamic between Tanner and Bree was wonderful. It doesn't start off as an instant romance. Instead it starts with suspicion and distrust between the two of them that slowly grows into something akin to friendship. And when the ball drops and the cards need to be laid out on the table,it evolves into something like a hopeful potential for future romance.
I liked it right up to the ending, which unfortunately requires a bit of suspended belief on the readers part because it is a classic old school thriller movie ending, in my opinion, .
In Conclusion
All in all I really enjoyed this book and will definitively be waiting on the second installment of Tanner and Bree!
Bree Daniels could never be sure they would stop looking for her. She always plans her out. What she didn't plan on someone from her past finding her and asking her for help. Now she doesn't just have her own life riding on her skills of avoidance.
Sheriff’s captain Tanner Dempsey was just taking preventative measures when he stops a young female shoplifter trying to steal diapers and formula. But something isn't right with this frightened woman. Tanner can't help but want to solve her mystery, to keep his ton safe, of course.
Thoughts
I quite enjoyed the majority of this book. The idea of a young woman at her wits end, trying to hold it together for the good of others who are relying on her, with her being more or less rescued by the kind people of a small town is beautiful . And a police officer who is so protective of everyone under his care in the county he continually sticks his nose in the newcomer's business to only find a woman on the verge of an emotional collapse? Yeah. I liked it, not going to lie.
The dynamic between Tanner and Bree was wonderful. It doesn't start off as an instant romance. Instead it starts with suspicion and distrust between the two of them that slowly grows into something akin to friendship. And when the ball drops and the cards need to be laid out on the table,it evolves into something like a hopeful potential for future romance.
I liked it right up to the ending, which unfortunately requires a bit of suspended belief on the readers part because it is a classic old school thriller movie ending, in my opinion, .
In Conclusion
All in all I really enjoyed this book and will definitively be waiting on the second installment of Tanner and Bree!
June 15, 2019
This is an awesome romantic suspense book. I wanted to thank the author first of all, for the description of the characters that was at the beginning of the book - that is always helpful. The book is about a computer genius (Bree) who was a prodigy as a child and was manipulated into helping a terrorist group called the Organization. The group is also disguised as a supposedly wonderful non-profit called Communication for All. It provides tech, especially smart phones, to people and businesses all over the world when they really are secretly including a devious piece of software with the tech that allows them to monitor all video, audio, and text communications from the phone, even when the phones are off! When Bree finds out what they are doing, she spends a few hours destroying a lot of their software, and then goes into hiding. Tanner Dempsey is a small town police captain who starts to help her and they, of course, are instantly attracted to each other. Besides the growing romance, this book is DEFINITELY suspenseful because of how impossible it becomes to hide from EVERYONE's phone! This concept is very relevant to some of the tech capabilities of today, and the Big Brother possibilities to be wary of. As Bree and Tanner fall deeper in love, the Organization plans to dramatically expand their evil activities. Bree is the only one with enough computer knowledge to stop them, but she doesn't have much time and would need to leave her hiding place and be exposed to an Organization that wants to use her talents or kill her. Can she possibly stop them? Can she and Tanner have an HEA? I very highly recommend this book!
March 11, 2023
Calculated Risk
2 Stars
Series note: The characters in this series appear in Crouch's Linear Tactical series (after book #8). That said, the plots are not linked, and each series can be read as a standalone. Crouch has a recommended reading order on her site for those who do want to read in order - https://www.janiecrouch.com/reading-o...
Crouch's Linear Tactical series is excellent, especially her heroines, who never fail to evoke strong emotions. Unfortunately, this book does not quite live up to the expectations mainly due to the lack of balance between the romance and the suspense.
Perhaps it is the nature of Harlquin's Intrigue imprint, which is heavily skewed toward the mystery and suspense elements, but Tanner and Bree have absolutely no chemistry whatsoever, and the emotions that they do exhibit feel forced. Tanner claims to be attracted to Bree, but none of his words or actions reflect this ostensible attraction. Likewise, Bree supposedly has feelings for Tanner, but her social awkwardness makes it difficult for her to connect. It is possible that the romance will develop in future books.
The suspense plot revolving around a nefarious clandestine group called the Organization, which is trying to control the world, has potential. The idea of is not outside the possibility and is actually truly scary in this day and age. That said, the villainous leader of the group is more smarmy than evil genius and is easily thwarted.
Overall, the characters are ok, but not sufficiently interesting to continue reading 3 more books. I will be sticking to Linear Tactical instead.
2 Stars
Series note: The characters in this series appear in Crouch's Linear Tactical series (after book #8). That said, the plots are not linked, and each series can be read as a standalone. Crouch has a recommended reading order on her site for those who do want to read in order - https://www.janiecrouch.com/reading-o...
Crouch's Linear Tactical series is excellent, especially her heroines, who never fail to evoke strong emotions. Unfortunately, this book does not quite live up to the expectations mainly due to the lack of balance between the romance and the suspense.
Perhaps it is the nature of Harlquin's Intrigue imprint, which is heavily skewed toward the mystery and suspense elements, but Tanner and Bree have absolutely no chemistry whatsoever, and the emotions that they do exhibit feel forced. Tanner claims to be attracted to Bree, but none of his words or actions reflect this ostensible attraction. Likewise, Bree supposedly has feelings for Tanner, but her social awkwardness makes it difficult for her to connect. It is possible that the romance will develop in future books.
The suspense plot revolving around a nefarious clandestine group called the Organization, which is trying to control the world, has potential. The idea of is not outside the possibility and is actually truly scary in this day and age. That said, the villainous leader of the group is more smarmy than evil genius and is easily thwarted.
Overall, the characters are ok, but not sufficiently interesting to continue reading 3 more books. I will be sticking to Linear Tactical instead.
June 18, 2019
Bree has been running from her past for years. She left everything when she escaped. She has been changing locations in order to stay under the radar. When her cousin comes to her apartment, she is very vague. She tells Bree that she has to leave because "they" are close to finding her. When Bree goes to her car, she finds two babies, her cousin's twins. Bree leaves town but doesn't have enough money to keep her and the twins on the run for long. She is observed shoplifting by Tanner, the sheriff of the town she was passing through. Tanner doesn't arrest her instead he offers her help. Bree refuses and tells him that she has to leave. He tells her to stop at the restaurant on her way out of town for something to eat. When she stops, the owners know that she needs help. They offer her a place to live and a job where she can keep the twins with her. As she waitresses, the owners and the local people take care of the babies, holding and loving them. As I learned more about Bree's past, I found her to be a strong woman. She adjusted to providing for the twins and keeping them safe. Tanner knew there was more to Bree than she let others see. He was always watching out for Bree and trying to help her. When her past catches up with her. will she be able to escape with the twins? Will Tanner be able to protect her and the twins like he has promised? Will her cousin remain safe? Will she be able to stop the danger? I enjoyed this story and am anxiously waiting for the next book. I received an ARC for this book.
June 24, 2019
Bree has been on the run for a while and thought she was good until her cousin shows up needing help. Now she's on the run again with two twin infants in tow and her cousin missing. If that wasn't bad enough her money is depleting faster with the two babies and resorted to stealing. Then she manages to be caught by a sheriff who is showing a little too much interest in her. Clearly he doesnt trust her but he will help her and the babies even if he doesn't know what is truly going on.
If you like a good mystery suspense you'll like this book. Bree is a smart women and managed to lay low long enough to be able to outsmart the people who are after her. But when things are tough, she smart enough to let others help her when she truly needs it because its obvious running and having those twins to care for were just running her ragged. I liked that the Sheriff Tanner didn't just brush of her sketchy behavior and just take her word for it. I come to see any books where the Sheriff just blindly trusts a random stranger, like no, person can cause havoc that way. But then again Tanner is the type of learn from history and there's a back story there that will given reasoning as to why hes such a reasonable person and doesn't just trust anybody. I loved how close knit the people where in the town Bree landed herself in, they are willing to help a stranger in need, it was so nice seeing that caring and support and Bree hasn't had much of that in her life. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it.
If you like a good mystery suspense you'll like this book. Bree is a smart women and managed to lay low long enough to be able to outsmart the people who are after her. But when things are tough, she smart enough to let others help her when she truly needs it because its obvious running and having those twins to care for were just running her ragged. I liked that the Sheriff Tanner didn't just brush of her sketchy behavior and just take her word for it. I come to see any books where the Sheriff just blindly trusts a random stranger, like no, person can cause havoc that way. But then again Tanner is the type of learn from history and there's a back story there that will given reasoning as to why hes such a reasonable person and doesn't just trust anybody. I loved how close knit the people where in the town Bree landed herself in, they are willing to help a stranger in need, it was so nice seeing that caring and support and Bree hasn't had much of that in her life. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it.
July 9, 2019
Janie Crouch delivers yet another outstanding story. It has everything a reader would want in a romantic suspense storyline. Calculated Risk maintained a steady pace throughout that will make it difficult to put the book down.
Bree Daniels thought she was safe. But, she was wrong. Her past has now caught up to her and the people after her will leave no stone unturned to ensure Bree is either captured or dead. Tanner Dempsey is a deputy who caught Bree shoplifting with two kids in tow in a little town called Risk Peak.
Tanner and Bree were really strong independently, but as a couple, they were a force to be reckoned with. Tanner was patient and kind but at the same time no less lethal. Bree was fragile yet strong, innocent yet worldly and in need of some serious love which she received from Tanner and the people of Risk Peak. The story was extremely fast. There was not a single page on which something was not happening which kept the book interesting. We also get a glimpse into characters like Zac Mackay and Gavin Zimmerman from the Linear Tactical series a hint of the Omega Task Force series as well.
The supporting characters were excelled. Dan and Cheryl were the sweetest elderly couple. Melissa and Chris were intriguing and I would love for them to have their love story shown in another book. The kids, Christian and Beth, were adorable. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes romance with a good mystery. I can proudly say that I am now moving on to the next book in this series.
Bree Daniels thought she was safe. But, she was wrong. Her past has now caught up to her and the people after her will leave no stone unturned to ensure Bree is either captured or dead. Tanner Dempsey is a deputy who caught Bree shoplifting with two kids in tow in a little town called Risk Peak.
Tanner and Bree were really strong independently, but as a couple, they were a force to be reckoned with. Tanner was patient and kind but at the same time no less lethal. Bree was fragile yet strong, innocent yet worldly and in need of some serious love which she received from Tanner and the people of Risk Peak. The story was extremely fast. There was not a single page on which something was not happening which kept the book interesting. We also get a glimpse into characters like Zac Mackay and Gavin Zimmerman from the Linear Tactical series a hint of the Omega Task Force series as well.
The supporting characters were excelled. Dan and Cheryl were the sweetest elderly couple. Melissa and Chris were intriguing and I would love for them to have their love story shown in another book. The kids, Christian and Beth, were adorable. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes romance with a good mystery. I can proudly say that I am now moving on to the next book in this series.
June 16, 2019
When we were told a few months back that Janie Crouch was going to try out a new concept for Harlequin Intrigue; featuring a same couple in a 4 books series, I was honestly a bit iffy about it. I am not a huge fan of cliffhangers, thank goodness that is not the case! Calculated Risk is book one in the Bree and Tanner thriller series and it definitely suspense driven. In this book we get an introduction to both of the main characters. Bree has been successfully hiding for the past three years, until someone from her past somehow finds her and asks for help. This results in Bree on the run once again but now with added charges. Tanner Dempsey is the Deputy captain of the sheriff’s office and is very protective of his town. So he is very suspicious of Bree right from the first meeting. But something about her also draws him to her and like the rest of the community of the small town of Grand County, he is determined to help her.
My heart broke for all that Bree had endured in her young life, her past has made her wary of everyone around her. She is used to being alone, so with her new charges and then this town and the attractive sheriff’s deputy’s wish to involve themselves in her life was difficult for her. There is not a lot of heat in this book between Tanner and Bree, however, the attraction is definitely there. I am very excited about where the next three books will take them.
The storyline and suspense was fast paced and kept me on my toes. This was a great first book in the series and cannot wait for the next!
My heart broke for all that Bree had endured in her young life, her past has made her wary of everyone around her. She is used to being alone, so with her new charges and then this town and the attractive sheriff’s deputy’s wish to involve themselves in her life was difficult for her. There is not a lot of heat in this book between Tanner and Bree, however, the attraction is definitely there. I am very excited about where the next three books will take them.
The storyline and suspense was fast paced and kept me on my toes. This was a great first book in the series and cannot wait for the next!
June 16, 2019
Calculated Risk is the first book of the Bree and Tanner Thriller. Bree is a young woman who is very adept at being alone, hiding, and running until a person from her past finds her and requests help. Against her better judgment, she agrees and then goes on the run with newborn twins. This sends her world into a tailspin. She's exhausted and out of money when she finds herself in the town of Risk Peak where she resorts to shoplifting formula and diapers.
Captain Tanner Dempsey, the protector of Risk Peak, who takes his job very seriously. When he sees a young woman shoplifting diapers and formula, he decides to help her. Little did he know that small act of kindness would involve him in such intrigue and danger.
I loved this book from beginning to end. It was wonderful watching them maneuver through their relationship. It was fun watching Bree go from a scared young lady to a force to contend with. Loved how sweet and considerate Tanner is with Bree. It was funny how the town reacted to a very unpopular decision Tanner made about Bree. I also loved the little twist at the end.
if you love romance, suspense, intrigue, action, then this is the book for you!! I'm so looking forward to reading the rest of the series!!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Captain Tanner Dempsey, the protector of Risk Peak, who takes his job very seriously. When he sees a young woman shoplifting diapers and formula, he decides to help her. Little did he know that small act of kindness would involve him in such intrigue and danger.
I loved this book from beginning to end. It was wonderful watching them maneuver through their relationship. It was fun watching Bree go from a scared young lady to a force to contend with. Loved how sweet and considerate Tanner is with Bree. It was funny how the town reacted to a very unpopular decision Tanner made about Bree. I also loved the little twist at the end.
if you love romance, suspense, intrigue, action, then this is the book for you!! I'm so looking forward to reading the rest of the series!!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
June 18, 2019
When I read a review for a "first in series" book I always want to know several things. First, did the characters grab your attention? Are they dynamic or a little flat? Second, is it a cliffhanger? And lastly, what were the reviewers overall impressions, including dislikes?
So for this book those are the questions i'm going to answer for you. I found the characters to be interesting. They behave in a manner that actual people would (which is a huge plus for me). They don't seem flat or two dimensional at all. They express real emotions and they are able to make me feel for them. Not all authors can pull this off in my experience.
Cliffhanger...it is not. It leaves me wanting more but doesn't stop in the middle of a scene.
My overall impression was very positive. I liked how the characters interacted with their environment, and each other. The side characters met all of my expectations. The action was realistic and well paced. I got a sense of how Bree was feeling throughout the book by her actions instead of always being told - I like that. I don't really have any negative points about this book.
If you like romance coupled with action I think you will like this and all of the other Janie Crouch books I have read. Happy reading!
So for this book those are the questions i'm going to answer for you. I found the characters to be interesting. They behave in a manner that actual people would (which is a huge plus for me). They don't seem flat or two dimensional at all. They express real emotions and they are able to make me feel for them. Not all authors can pull this off in my experience.
Cliffhanger...it is not. It leaves me wanting more but doesn't stop in the middle of a scene.
My overall impression was very positive. I liked how the characters interacted with their environment, and each other. The side characters met all of my expectations. The action was realistic and well paced. I got a sense of how Bree was feeling throughout the book by her actions instead of always being told - I like that. I don't really have any negative points about this book.
If you like romance coupled with action I think you will like this and all of the other Janie Crouch books I have read. Happy reading!
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