USA 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.
I liked all the books, I enjoy books that build on each other where people you meet in the first books carry on and become part of the next books. I felt that proofreading could have been tighter.
CYCLONE is the first instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult LINEAR TACTICAL romantic, suspense series focusing on a group of former Special Forces soldiers who own and operate Linear Tactical, an Oak Creek, Wyoming business focusing on survival skills, security and protection. This is Special Forces Green Beret / widower Zac ‘Cyclone’ MacKay, and ER physician Anne Nichols Griffin’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Anne and Zac) CYCLONE follows the building relationship between Special Forces soldier / widower Zac ‘Cyclone’ MacKay, and ER physician Anne Nichols Griffin. Six years earlier Anne Nichols’ life imploded when her best friend, and Zac’s wife Becky, along with their young son Micah, was killed in an accident that left Zac a shell of his former self. On the eve of his last deployment, a few days following the death of his beloved wife, Zac destroyed Anne’s already fragile ego, a destruction he doesn’t remember yet is unlikely to forget. Fast forward to present day wherein Anne, now divorced, has returned to her hometown of Oak Creek, Wyoming, to take up a position at the local hospital, a position that places her in direct confrontation with the people from her past. Enter Zac MacKay, and the man with whom Anne Nichols was once in love. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship and relationship between Anne and Zac, and the potential fall-out as a serial rapist descends upon the small-town of Oak Creek, Wyoming targeting our heroine in the process.
CYCLONE is a story of family, friendship, forgiveness and unrequited love. The premise is engaging and spirited; the characters are broken, flawed but energetic; the romance is emotional and sensual. CYCLONE is a slow building story of drama and suspense, and the fated reunion between friendship and love.
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EAGLE is the second instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult LINEAR TACTICAL erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of former Special Forces soldiers who own and operate Linear Tactical, an Oak Creek, Wyoming business focusing on survival skills, security and protection. This is Special Forces Green Beret / single father Finn ‘Eagle’ Bollinger, and special education teacher Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Devereux’s story line. EAGLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Some of the events in EAGLE run parallel to and cross over with the events of book one-CYCLONE.
NOTE: Contains scenes graphic scenes of violence and may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Charlie and Finn) EAGLE follows the second chance romance between Special Forces Green Beret / single father Finn ‘Eagle’ Bollinger, and special education teacher Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Devereux. Eight years earlier Finn Bollinger’s life imploded when the woman he loved married another man, shattering his heart and any chance for a happily ever after. Fast forward to present day Finn, now a single father to young boy struggling with learning disabilities comes face to face with his past in the form of his son’s special education teacher Charlotte Devereux. Betrayal and hatred hang heavy between our leading couple until Finn is forced to accept that Charlie is his son Evan’s best chance at reading success. What ensues is the rebuilding and rekindling romance between Charlie and Finn, and the fall-out as Charlie is targeted when she is witness to a secret meeting of some very powerful men at a bar known as The Lion’s Den.
EAGLE is a fast paced, action packed story of romance and suspense. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are charismatic, determined and strong. Janie Crouch pulls the reader into a raw and dynamic tale of second chances, betrayal and fate.
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SHAMROCK is the third instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult LINEAR TACTICAL romantic, suspense series focusing on a group of former Special Forces soldiers who own and operate Linear Tactical, an Oak Creek, Wyoming business specializing in survival skills, security and protection. This is thirty-three year old, Special Forces Green Beret Aiden ‘Shamrock’ Teague, and twenty-two year old, engineering student/baker Violet Collingwood’s story line. SHAMROCK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: SHAMROCK contains scenes of graphic violence and sexual situations that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Aiden and Violet) SHAMROCK follows the building romance and relationship between thirty-three year old, Special Forces Green Beret Aiden ‘Shamrock’ Teague, and twenty-two year old, engineering student/baker Violet Collingwood. Working undercover as an arms dealer for Linear Tactical, Special Forces Green Beret Aiden Teague would come face to face with his future in the guise of a young woman forced into sexual slavery against her will. Leaving behind the woman with the terrified eyes finds our hero putting a plan into motion to take down the people responsible, and rescue our heroine from the evil within. Enter twenty-two year old, engineering student/baker Violet Collingwood, and the woman with whom Aiden will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Aiden and Violet, and the potential fall-out as Violet is targeted for who she is, and what she knows; and Aiden struggles with his attraction to a woman he believes needs time to recover before starting something new.
SHAMROCK is a story of family and friendships; betrayal and lies; recovery and healing. The premise is raw and real; the characters are animated, stubborn and spirited; the romance is seductive and hot. SHAMROCK is an edgy and energetic story of romantic suspense.
Fast-paced, entertaining stories with interesting characters and some unexpected plot twists, but I'd like to see a little more care taken in proofreading. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
3.5 STARS. Love box sets as you can continuously read a series without waiting for the next book. Have read one previous book by this author and enjoyed that. Stumbled onto this series and thought why not as it sounded entertaining. Enjoyed the snippets of humour and some of the quotes/speeches. Read through KU. 1 - CYCLONE 3 stars. New author for me and a free read so thought I would give her a go. Way too much mention about his dead ex wife, she was practically making a threesome. Enjoyable enough story, good plot and I liked all the secondary characters involved, I loved everyone coming to help when Anne was in trouble. I just didn’t feel a great love between Anne and Zac. At least Anne had not been pinning for Zac and had moved away and married, even if it was to a douche canoe. I did like Anne finally showing her backbone in public. No one could do her job and not have inner strength but seeing her bring it out was great. Zac was likeable enough but I didn’t love his constant thinking of his ex-wife as it had been six years. His behaviour towards Anne 6 years previously was atrocious but I will give him the benefit of the doubt as he was drunk and then blacked out after hitting his head. No real HEA proposal or epilogue, just a comment about spending the next 50 years together. 2 - EAGLE 3.5 stars. Enjoyable but found lead female character a bit of a martyr. I am not a fan of second chance romances as I usually dislike one of the main lead characters, this book is no exception. As much as I enjoyed this book overall and I found Charlie clever and brave at a certain point, I just couldn’t like her or forgive her martyr attitude. Years ago she chose to marry a man she didn’t love, brutally hurt the man she did love, all for money. Yes, there is another reason behind that but at the root of it was money. I also found her slowly killing herself working three jobs, sleeping in her car and starving herself as she couldn’t afford food, just so she could support her parents, absolutely ridiculous. NO loving parent would ever allow their child to do that for them. If she was dead where would the money have come from? Once we meet her mother though, things become clearer. She is the typical stay at home, husband makes all the decisions, head in the sand, old fashioned type. I wanted to slap her. Finn was likeable and his love for Ethan was there to see, but his having a one-night stand on Charlie’s wedding night was just YUK. The story and actions revolving about the government leaks was entertaining. I like that Jordan is bought into this book but sad how the people treat her. 3 - SHAMROCK 4 stars. Entertaining and enjoyable, though I sussed what was happening in regards to Stellman. Was fairly obvious due to how many diversified pies Stellman’s fingers were in. Enjoyed watching Violet find her inner self and strength after what she had been through. Aiden was a sweetheart, honourable and caring man. He was always thinking of what was best for Violet. Enjoyed it was Violet doing the chasing but can understand why Aiden was a bit wary of it being a trauma reaction. I did roll my eyes a bit at the end over something but Violet turned the tables so well, I forgave it. Still hating how Jordan is being treated.
Cyclone Review: I loved the suspense of the story, it kept me on the edge of my seat turning the pages. I knew who the the antagonist was the minute we were introduced to him. I kept reading just to make sure I was right. In my opinion you get action, steam and suspense. My favorite thing about this story was the strength that is conveyed from Annie. In my opinion Janie Crouch writes quietly strong women. I appreciated Zac's strength and protectiveness. I loved how he stepped back and let Annie take control when all his instincts told him smother her. My biggest complaint with this story is in my opinion Annie forgave Zac too soon. I felt he needed to make up for a lot.
Eagle Review: I loved this story!!! I got the suspense, action and steam I look for. I loved Finn and Charlie together. I loved Charlie's independence, intelligence and strength. She fought for things she needed. I loved Finn's strength, protectiveness and his love for his family. My biggest complaint was Finn's change of heart was very abrupt. I did know who the antagonist was from the start, but I was okay with that. I love how Janie Crouch ties each book together. There are loose ends that go to the next book. I am loving the Linear Tactical Series.
Shamrock Review: Shamrock is my favorite of the Linear Tactical Boxed Set 1. In my opinion it's full of suspense, steam and action. One antagonist is obvious, the other one I knew from the first introduction. I was not surprised but I think most will be surprised. I found Aiden to be smart, strong and insightful. He knew when to back away from Violet to let her grow. I didn't like the way he went about doing it, but his intentions were good. Violet grows a lot in this story both physically and mentally. Violet learns to stand up for herself, I found that impressive. I found some of the clean up of loose ends a little anticlimatic, but I was okay with that. I like how each book overlaps events from book to book, it can be a little confusing if you are not careful. In my opinion Janie Crouch does the suspense romance story really well.
In my opinion this boxed set is full of suspense, steam and action. Janie Crouch gave me everything I look for in a suspense romance. In my opinion the cost for the boxed set is a little steep, but I read on Kindle Unlimited.
I loved ❤ 2 out of 3 books 📚 in this set. CYCLONE: I was excited to read 📖 this book 📒 after I finished reading SCOUT. I'm sorry after being 33% into this story I'm still not feeling the action or romance 💏. I liked Zac's character. This is the 3rd book 📒 I read by Ms. Crouch, I loved❤ MAJOR CRIMES & SCOUT but this one didn't do it for me. EAGLE 🦅: I loved ❤ this book's storyline. I loved ❤ the action in this story. I loved ❤ the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. I loved ❤ Charlie's character. My heart broke 💔 for Charlie. I loved ❤ Charlie's toughness in this story. I loved ❤ Finn's character. I loved ❤ Ethan. I loved ❤ the ending. Awesome job Ms. Crouch. SHAMROCK 🍀: I loved ❤ this book's storyline. I loved ❤ the action in this story. The dialogue in this story made me laugh 😂. I loved ❤ the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. I loved ❤ Violet's character. I loved ❤ Violet's toughness in this story. I loved ❤ Aiden's character. I loved ❤ the ending. Awesome job Ms. Crouch.
I enjoy boxed sets. I can jump into the next story immediately. The order does not get confusing and most importantly it doesn’t break my attention from that world to go find the next book!
This box set has the first three stories and introduces us to the company, community and some amazing characters. Additionally all three have a central bad guy that is behind the scenes impacting the loved one and their harm.
Fast paced, full of action and chemistry, I would recommend this set!
Some great stories that were well paced and had great twists and turns. Characters were adult and smart, no one to stupid to love. Very much enjoyed all of these.
Throughly enjoyed reading each story. Great characters with intrigue, suspense, and HEA in each separate storyline. Can't wait to read the next two books.
Cyclone: Zac Mackay and Dr. Anne Griffin Former green beret Zac, came back to his childhood home, and started a tactical business with his best friends and former comrades in arms. When his dead wife’s best friend Anne returns to town, she is divorced, broke, and struggling with the social anxiety she has always dealt with. Zac knows he needs to make amends, but he can’t recall everything that happened between them. And it’s when Anne ends up the target of danger, that Zac gets his second chance…
** Zac was truly horrible to Anne in the past, but he makes up for it well, and fairly quickly. There are some great twists in this story, but perhaps my favourite parts were when Zac and Anne were reminiscing about Becky, his late wife and her late bestie. Their shared history, and the possible feeling second best issue are actually handled really well, and make for an awesome power couple. Cute props to pregnant dog Duchess who helps us to see Zac’s caring side.
Eagle: Finn Bollinger and Charlotte Devereaux Charlie and Finn have a past, and it was her fault - even though she had her reasons. Finn doesn’t like that Charlie is the only one who might just be able to help his seven year old son with his reading difficulties. He hates that Charlie isn’t acting the same as she used to, and things aren’t quite adding up. But it’s when Charlie ends up in danger that Finn gets his answers, and a possible second shot at love…
** Finn starts out being a bit of a judgmental jerk in this one, though I will say it’s not without good cause. Charlie is absolutely way too prideful: and in this way you get pride and prejudice! Seriously though, Charlie makes all kinds of silly heart-lead and pride-lead choices, that come back to bite her in the butt. Fortunately Finn realizes his mistake fairly quickly, just in time to help her. The cute factor in this one is Ethan, Finn’s son, who not only gets some of the best lines, but showcases something a little special at one high tension moment!
Shamrock: Aidan Teague and Violet Collingwood
Having rescued Violet from an untenable situation, Aidan isn’t sure that her desire for him isn’t gratitude. Violet might be young, but mentally she’s a lot older, and she knows precisely what she wants. And she wants Aidan. And when the past comes calling, it’s Aidan who feels the need to save the day.
**Violet’s personal traumas are not as visible as they may seem in this one. I love how it’s her baking that helps her deal with everything too (recipes might have been nice). That being said, it’s Jordan Reiss who we see stealing the show in this one, she’s definitely had a tough time of it!
The linear tactical series begins with these three books, and is heavily linked to the Zodiac Tactical series by the author. There are a few more minor links with the author’s other series, but nothing big. While each of these books can be read as a standalone, they are interlinked, and there is also an ongoing background story (at least through these three books). Both Eagle and Shamrock pick up the tale with an event described in the preceding book, before leaping to a point shortly after the events in that book. Reading the books in series order is therefore recommended to avoid spoilers and also because it explains some of the story setup.
These books are romantic suspense, and they live up to both parts of that term! There is a lot of suspense, and it might just leave you biting your nails with anticipation. In addition to this, you can expect sexy times and danger (not always together), to create a riveting read. They are well crafted stories, with interesting repeat characters to support the main ones, as well as cameos from former mc’s in the preceding books. There are one or two situations that those with triggers might want to avoid (near rape in the first book, torture in the second, both in the third), just for a heads up.
That being said, they’re fast paced, action packed, novels of suspense, with interesting characters. Recommended for fans of romantic suspense.
Rather than tell you what you've already seen, that this is a box set of three books written by Janie Crouch, I decided to put my reviews of all three here, in case anyone is undecided (trust me, decide to read this box set - hot romance, adventure, action, and strong women - and that's all I'll say). I loaded these onto KU and loved every second of them.
Cyclone- I don't know how I can convey that I read the other reviews for this book, especially the 1 and 2 stars, and I don't get it. We're adults, we all know the F word exists. And while I'm reading, I don't count them, just to make sure I can write them all down. Lordie, don't read the book is you don't like adult language - stick with the sweet, kind, gentle romances that BORE THE CRAP out of me. I want a book that takes a hunky guy, and puts him into situations he's not sure he can handle, and this book did it. Yes, there is a predator on the loose. Yes, he is a rapist - but you don't get to hear all the gory details, it is not something you have to read. Yes, Annie is attacked but she gets away with her own quick thinking and some luck. No, she isn't raped. Yes, I'm sure that she says the Lord's name in vain a few times after that, I'd probably be cursing a blue streak if it happened to me. Zak screwed up the day of his wife and son's funeral. Annie ran away, but now she's back, and this book is about the power of a smart man and a strong woman. If you don't like swear words, go read sweet romances until your teeth rot. If you don't like ex-military men and the way they talk, read a sweet romance. If you don't like the Lord's name taken in vain when someone curses, well, I'm not sure what to tell you, because you'll read it in this book, but it fits the characters, it fits the situation, and it fits the arc of the story like a glove. Five stars for this one. Hands down.
Eagle - I'd love to know a man named Finn. That was my first thought after finishing this book. My second thought was - thank all that's holy that they're available on KU, which is where I loaded Finn up. One word of caution - wear your oven mitts when handling your Kindle if you are reading about Charlie and Finn. Holy Canoli. Janie Crouch knows how to write hot romance, and she certainly doesn't do too badly in the adventure and action parts either. My only other thought on this, and all of this series of books, is if you like a former military man, and if you like/love to see him fall at the feet of the woman who loves him, this book is for you. Finn falls, bounces, falls again, and it is the best feeling in the world to be part of it.
Shamrock - Out of the three books in this set, Shamrock appealed to me the most. Probably because the guy hasn't ever been hurt when in combat and has come out unscathed - no wounds, no PTSD, nothing. Yea, that's about to change with a woman by the name of Violet - Violet and Aiden make a pair. She, held captive. Aiden, unable to save her because the mission comes first. This book wowed me with the emotion that was all over this book like Cream Cheese on a Bagel. It was well written, it told a story about human traffickers, but more importantly it told a story of a woman named Violet who discovered that she was far stronger than she thought, and a man who loves her because of it.
Do not hesitate to buy or borrow this box set. It is well worth the money!
This is an intense, intriguing romantic suspense series which keeps getting better with each story that will keep you on the edge of your seat! I have read each story individually and highly recommend the series.
“Cyclone” - As Annie and Zac are getting to know each other again, a predator that’s been hurting women in their local area has set his sights on Annie. Zac is determined to overcome Annie’s impressions from the past and keep her safe from harm. This is an intriguing, suspenseful romance. The action is fast-paced and intense, full of emotions and steamy passion. The characters are well-developed and engaging. The storyline is strong and compelling, pulling you in from the beginning and not letting you go until the end. This is a perfect start to this fantastic series!
“Eagle” - Finn and Charlie have quite a history which keeps impacting their present, but it’s not the only thing. Linear Tactical’s current case may have the biggest impact of all, putting Finn’s loved ones’ lives in jeopardy. While Finn and Charlie’s love rebuilds slowly, their chemistry is hot with just the right amount of steamy passion. And if this isn’t enough to have you turning pages, the intrigue and suspense of this story will keep you totally engaged and hold your attention from beginning to end. And, boy what an end! You may just be surprised when the villain is revealed. This is a wonderful addition to this great series!
“Shamrock” - The third in the series starts out very powerfully with a strong dramatic impact which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Violet is a strong, courageous character who overcomes an unimaginable experience which would destroy a lesser individual. Aiden has given years to the service of his country and knows Violet has the mettle to overcome her experiences and stand on her own. These are solid, interesting characters with a compelling story who when faced with deceit and betrayal dig deep to outwit their adversaries and safe their lives. This is an amazing and gripping love story, which may be the best of the series!
You really shouldn’t miss this opportunity to read this extremely engaging box set!!
Cyclone— Actually started with storm book and then redwood and am finally now getting back to the beginning. Loved this story. So sad and upsetting about zacs loss and Annie’s loss as well. And then alcohol makes things hard and stupid. Lol. I’m glad he finally remember what happened and explained that he was really angry at himself than her that night but alcohol made the situation worse and not very easily understanding for both of them. Loved how he did all those cute fix-it jobs with the guys to help her out. Annie is shy and quiet but has an inner strength and she kicked ass at fighting back and then again I’m the facility. Loved the ending.
Eagle— Loved the story!!! Finn and Charlie. Wow. So hot. And little Ethan was adorable and as noble and protective as his daddy. Loved how he was with Charlie while running. She has certainly been dealt a crap hand. I feel like if she just told Finn why she had to do what she did 8 years ago(not that it would make him happier or feel better) that the betrayal would have been less of a blow. And wait for aidens book.
Shamrock— Loved this story. Aiden ‘shamrock’ happened to be at the right place when he caught sight of violet who felt like the world was crumbling around her. He saw her. And saw her fear for what it was and sought out to help her. Then was brought into the info from her brother about being held for blackmail. Violet survived retreating into her brilliant head for the duration of her torturous time being held captive. Until Aiden, her brother and the rest of LT team could get her. This book had so many twists and turns. Wow the stillman bombshell was crazy!! And about her parents. Jesus! Loved Aiden and violet whew talk about steamy. Loved how she went for what she wanted and then became a badass who could protect herself. I understood her brother gave being nervous about being through a trauma but her reasoning was sound. Can’t wait for his book.
My review of the set vanished. So I listed the books separately. Now the trio is back, sans review. I give up. Shamrock is terrible for the first third or so. It contains what is probably the most offensive line in romantic suspense history. When her brother describes the young woman kidnapped by terrorists/traffickers, stripped, caged, groped, tortured, sold at a strip club for anything but penetration, as quiet, smart, and studious, our hero says she's not the kind who "easily recovers from this sort of thing." Because outgoing girls just snap right back from this stuff. It does improve, talking about her recovery and her strength. But the suspense portion of this story is lacking. The lack of detail is, frankly, annoying. Someone is arrested. That's it. All we're told. This is a ring of traffickers and terrorists, but let's not hear any details. It's lazy writing. Yes, this isn't exactly literature, but it can be written well with some effort.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The men of Linear Tactical are all ex-military meaning they have exceptional training to handle any dangerous mission that comes up. These stories have the perfect mix of fascinating characters, heartwarming romance, and chilling suspense. Each book is about different members of the team and the women they love.
These books got me from page one - they're fast-paced, exciting with strong characters, and a well thought out plot. The heroines are awesome, and heroes are the hunky, caring, seductive heroes we all want to read about. I am a fan of Janie Crouch but I must say that these are certainly the best that I've read.
I highly recommend this boxed set. They are excellent romantic suspense books.
the men of Linear Tactical served together in the military and started Linear Tactical together when they were discharged. They are strong and brave and have a bond stronger than brothers. They have been together thru good times and some very bad times. The women they come to love are strong independent and have been taking care of themselves for a long time..some have history together. They are all unaware of the danger that is coming their way. All their stories were inspiring and heart warming.The stories are fast paced and full of family community and love. I don't know when I have enjoyed reading more. Thank you Janie Croudh.
This series is about a group of teammates who were in the spec ops military together. They decided to separate from the military, and start a business together. Two of them lived in the same small town which is where they made their business. Since the business started, it’s made it’s own reputation and has grown.
These stories are about the teammate guys and their business has someway are woven into the stories.
These were great and are different than most of these types of storyline’s. Can’t wait to see what the others in the series are like.
Cyclone (Linear Tactical 1) Cyclone is a friendship to love, flawed characters, suspenseful romance. The first book in the Linear Tactical series by Janie Crouch is off to a promising start. I enjoyed this story, the character dynamics and the overall interaction will definitely have me coming back for book 2.
Eagle (Linear Tactical 2) I just loved this story Finn and Charlie are great characters, the story is compelling and the support cast engaging. Overall, a fabulous romantic suspense and one I would recommend you read.
I'm so excited to have found another author of romantic suspense. This boxed set with its kick ass women and smoldering alpha men was a great introduction to Linear Tactical and the very Special forces that make the business. The stories and characters intrigued me so that I checked out the next books in the series. Clever dialogue and characters with depth are part and parcel of this author's creativity. 15 stars!
This is the first three books in the Linear Tactical series, and I have really enjoyed all of them. With terrific characters, humor, drama, angst, mystery, suspense, and many unexpected twists, it's definitely a series that you're going to want to read. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series. I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
Absolutely one of the BEST writers of this genre. Cyclone - Zac & Anne, Eagle -Finn & Charlie, Shamrock - Adrian & Violet are all great stories. (If you're looking for spoilers - keep looking!) Well written, interesting stories. Fast paced, drawing you in! Thank you for your time, talent and THE STORIES!!
This book was awesome. All 3 Special Forces heroes were strong characters. The stories were action packed and very descriptive. I loved the small town atmosphere where everyone was protective of each other. The love stories thrown in was the icing on the cake.
Janie Crouch does adventure, suspense, and romance so well! This series had me hooked from book one. The romance is intense and steamy. Each book has a unique plot that can be read as a stand alone. We also get interconnected characters with some crossover in the storylines. I definitely recommend.