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Shadow Agents #3
Sharpshooter - Sang Penembak Jitu
Dua tahun lalu, Sydney Sloan dan kakak tunangannya, Gunner, gagal dalam misi menyelamatkan Slade di hutan Peru. Duka atas kematian Slade membuat mereka bersandar pada satu sama lain.
Tetapi, tampaknya masa lalu tidak berniat melepaskan mereka. Misi penyelamatan sandera kembali datang untuk divisi agen rahasia mereka, mengharuskan Sydney dan Gunner pergi ke hutan di Peru. Sydney terus dibayang-bayangi kematian tunangannya, sementara Gunner semakin tak bisa menahan ketertarikannya pada Sydney. Bisakah Sydney berkonsentrasi pada misinya kali ini? Atau Gunner harus kembali menyelamatkan nyawa wanita yang dicintainya?
Tetapi, tampaknya masa lalu tidak berniat melepaskan mereka. Misi penyelamatan sandera kembali datang untuk divisi agen rahasia mereka, mengharuskan Sydney dan Gunner pergi ke hutan di Peru. Sydney terus dibayang-bayangi kematian tunangannya, sementara Gunner semakin tak bisa menahan ketertarikannya pada Sydney. Bisakah Sydney berkonsentrasi pada misinya kali ini? Atau Gunner harus kembali menyelamatkan nyawa wanita yang dicintainya?
292 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 23, 2013
84 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
309 books6,805 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
July 26, 2013
Two years ago, Gunner Ortez lost his brother, Slade, during a rescue mission gone wrong. Trapped in a fire fight, and having sustained multiple injuries herself, Sydney, Slade's fiance, attempts to drag him to safety. When they realize that he is no longer breathing, they are forced to flee and leave Slade's body behind.
Gunner has always harbored deeper feelings for Sydney, and 2 years has done nothing to diminish that. He doesn't feel like he can have her, since he still harbors guilt over pursuing a woman that loved his brother.
Sydney was an extremely strong heroine. She works as the computer and investigations specialist for Elite Ops Division, an off the grid special operations group where Gunner works as a sharpshooter. It’s very refreshing to read about a female character that kicks butt. She wasn’t a damsel in distress that needed rescuing, and she didn't run away and hide from difficult situations.
Gunner had a very quiet intensity about him. He still harbors guilt about the way he lost his brother. But the fact that he cannot stop thinking about his brother’s fiancé is certainly not helping matters either.
While both of them are still dealing with the shared loss of someone they cared for, they begin to realize that they can only fight the attraction that has been brewing between them for so long. Sydney has always had feelings for Gunner, but when she begins to believe that he will only look at her as his dead brother's fiance, she decides to move on. She goes to a bar to try to find another man, but doesn't count on a jealous Gunner showing up. When Gunner realizes that another man might be taking what he wants, he stops fighting and gives into the passion between them.
The relationship between them is still a fragile one, since neither knows where they stand with the other. Unfortunately they don't get the opportunity to talk things out as they get a call from their team leader, Logan, about a hostage rescue mission in Peru. There is also something suspiciously familiar about one of the hostages that Logan needs to confirm.
When the identity of the hostage is finally revealed, everything Gunner and Sydney thought they knew comes to a screeching halt.
What follows is the type of suspense, action, and steam that I have come to expect from Cynthia Eden. The woman can write the hell out of a Romantic Suspense, and this book was no exception.
While the identity of the bad guy is hinted at heavily throughout the first part, and is more or less revealed during the second, it did nothing to diminish from the suspense. The story kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.
What I particularly enjoy about her writing, is that we get the killer POV as well, which helps add to the experience and the story.
I have not read the other books in this series, but I intend to rectify that immediately. If they are anything like this one, I already know I'm going to enjoy them. The ending brings a set up for Cale's story, which I cannot wait for. He really intrigued me in this book. Judging from my own experience, this book easily reads as a standalone, though I'm thinking it would have helped to read the first 2 to get a little more background on the other characters that appeared in this book, that were introduced in the earlier ones.
4.5 Suspenseful and Sexy Stars
**ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
July 2, 2013
Finally Gunner and Sydney. These two have been dancing around each other for a while. Sydney wants Gunner and has made that clear but Gunner has his issues, mainly the fact that she was engaged to his half brother and he a man who has been scarred a million times doesn't deserve her. But when he sees her moving on, he lets his inner alpha loose and they get down and dirty and then reality interrupts.
They have to run a rescue in Peru, the place where his brother Slade died and where Sydney almost died rescuing him. Finding out his brother is alive opens a can of worms for Gunner, guilt because his brother was held captive for two years and Gunner got the woman Slade loved. Slade, was as Gunner knew not faithful but that doesn't matter at the moment.
From the start it was obvious there was more to Slade. I loved the fact that his return didn't change Sydney's feelings. Yes, she wanted to help Slade but that didn't mean going back to him. Gunner of course tries being noble for a while but when he learns Sydney is expecting all bets are off and the man who is known for his control lets loose and tells her what we already knew, he adores. Honestly, I loved his proposal, how romantic.
There is of course the bad guy to deal with, targeting Sydney and framing Gunner. Cynthia Eden has whet my appetite for Cale's book after the bombshell she dropped at the end!!!
They have to run a rescue in Peru, the place where his brother Slade died and where Sydney almost died rescuing him. Finding out his brother is alive opens a can of worms for Gunner, guilt because his brother was held captive for two years and Gunner got the woman Slade loved. Slade, was as Gunner knew not faithful but that doesn't matter at the moment.
From the start it was obvious there was more to Slade. I loved the fact that his return didn't change Sydney's feelings. Yes, she wanted to help Slade but that didn't mean going back to him. Gunner of course tries being noble for a while but when he learns Sydney is expecting all bets are off and the man who is known for his control lets loose and tells her what we already knew, he adores. Honestly, I loved his proposal, how romantic.
There is of course the bad guy to deal with, targeting Sydney and framing Gunner. Cynthia Eden has whet my appetite for Cale's book after the bombshell she dropped at the end!!!
September 10, 2013
Wow. Intense emotion and action throughout the book. It starts with a rescue op in Peru that goes terribly wrong. The man they were to rescue was Gunner's half brother and Sydney's fiance. They end up in a firefight where Slade is killed and they have to leave his body behind. Fast forward two years. Gunner and Sydney are still on the same EOD team. They have a great friendship there, but Sydney is emotionally ready to move on from being Slade's fiance. She wants to move on with Gunner, but he rejects her advances because he is so full of guilt. He loves Sydney and has since before Slade's death. When she starts looking at another man his jealousy gets the better of him and they finally get together. Then they get called for another hostage rescue and find two hostages instead of one. The second one is a surprise. The rescue has its problems and they all barely make it out alive. Back in the US Gunner and Sydney find themselves under attack. Someone is trying to kill Sydney and make it look like Gunner is guilty.
I loved both Sydney and Gunner. Sydney is a real kick butt kind of heroine. She is as capable an agent as any of the men. I loved the way that she knew what she wanted and went after it. Once they were back in the US her life was in danger and it made her mad. I loved how she insisted on being involved in the investigation. Even as more evidence pointed toward Gunner she knew he wasn't guilty. I loved that complete faith and trust that she had in him. Gunner was one of those heroes who seemed to have everything against him. He's always been the gruff type, not a smooth talker. He's scarred, big and intimidating. And he's been in love with Sydney for a long time. He was also honorable and made sure that she never knew it. His guilt was eating him up after Slade's death and he fought Sydney's advances as long as he could. When the attacks began he was determined to protect her and do anything to find out who was behind it.
One of the things I love most about the Shadow Agents is their absolute trust in each other. No matter what they are doing they know that they are covered. When the attacks looked like an inside job and Gunner's fault, Sydney was absolutely sure he was being set up. The final confrontation was excellent and definitely edge-of-the-seat exciting for me. Another plus in the book was the occasional look into the killer's point of view. His identity was hinted at in the first half and revealed early in the second half, but the how's and why's made the story even better.
I loved both Sydney and Gunner. Sydney is a real kick butt kind of heroine. She is as capable an agent as any of the men. I loved the way that she knew what she wanted and went after it. Once they were back in the US her life was in danger and it made her mad. I loved how she insisted on being involved in the investigation. Even as more evidence pointed toward Gunner she knew he wasn't guilty. I loved that complete faith and trust that she had in him. Gunner was one of those heroes who seemed to have everything against him. He's always been the gruff type, not a smooth talker. He's scarred, big and intimidating. And he's been in love with Sydney for a long time. He was also honorable and made sure that she never knew it. His guilt was eating him up after Slade's death and he fought Sydney's advances as long as he could. When the attacks began he was determined to protect her and do anything to find out who was behind it.
One of the things I love most about the Shadow Agents is their absolute trust in each other. No matter what they are doing they know that they are covered. When the attacks looked like an inside job and Gunner's fault, Sydney was absolutely sure he was being set up. The final confrontation was excellent and definitely edge-of-the-seat exciting for me. Another plus in the book was the occasional look into the killer's point of view. His identity was hinted at in the first half and revealed early in the second half, but the how's and why's made the story even better.
June 29, 2013
Sharpshooter is the third book in Cynthia Eden’s Shadow Agent series. After reading Alpha One I have to admit I was really looking forward to Gunner and Sydney’s chase to a happily ever after. They were throwing some major sexual tension around in the first book of the series. I didn’t read Guardian Ranger, but apparently they did the same there too. That is just the makings of a great love story. Cynthia did not disappoint.
Gunner and Sydney have both wanted each other for so long that things progress romantically with them early on in the book. It’s not until a rescue mission goes in a surprising direction that they have to work for the relationship they both desire. By that point there are some crazy circumstances that keep them apart against their wishes. There were so many times I found myself reading and thinking I know exactly where this is going and then Cynthia would blindside me with something so completely unexpected. Sharpshooter is full of surprises. The numerous moments of the completely unexpected is reason enough to run and buy this one.
The other side of Gunner is the other reason to read this Shadow Agent book. He has always appeared to be that dark broody character that is hiding something. The only thing he has not hidden is his fierce attraction to Sydney. He was so amazingly caring and protective of her. Even when things were falling apart around them they stood up for each other. Their experience from the EOD of always having the others back fell right into their romantic relationship. The things that are thrown at them is intense. They really have to work to make it safe for them to have the happily ever after that they desperately desire.
Gunner and Sydney have both wanted each other for so long that things progress romantically with them early on in the book. It’s not until a rescue mission goes in a surprising direction that they have to work for the relationship they both desire. By that point there are some crazy circumstances that keep them apart against their wishes. There were so many times I found myself reading and thinking I know exactly where this is going and then Cynthia would blindside me with something so completely unexpected. Sharpshooter is full of surprises. The numerous moments of the completely unexpected is reason enough to run and buy this one.
The other side of Gunner is the other reason to read this Shadow Agent book. He has always appeared to be that dark broody character that is hiding something. The only thing he has not hidden is his fierce attraction to Sydney. He was so amazingly caring and protective of her. Even when things were falling apart around them they stood up for each other. Their experience from the EOD of always having the others back fell right into their romantic relationship. The things that are thrown at them is intense. They really have to work to make it safe for them to have the happily ever after that they desperately desire.
July 29, 2013
I received this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
A very good book. Very interesting plot, even if you can tell from the beginning who the villain is!
That didn’t make me enjoy it less.
What I liked is the fact the all the characters act in a logical fashion – obviously they don’t have the information that we, the readers, have.
The villain’s POV was interesting too: he’s such a twisted person… I was surprised that nobody noticed that something wasn’t right with him earlier on.
All in all, a nice book for an afternoon read!
A very good book. Very interesting plot, even if you can tell from the beginning who the villain is!
That didn’t make me enjoy it less.
What I liked is the fact the all the characters act in a logical fashion – obviously they don’t have the information that we, the readers, have.
The villain’s POV was interesting too: he’s such a twisted person… I was surprised that nobody noticed that something wasn’t right with him earlier on.
All in all, a nice book for an afternoon read!
February 10, 2017
Absolutely wonderful book! I adored this couple. This book got away from the theme a bit because both hero and heroine were agents but there was still much suspense, full actions and the act of betrayal. As usual, the villain came in the unexpected character but I guessed that it was much more obvious in this book but overall, the characters, the stories, and everything else were pretty awesome!
4.5 Stars
4.5 Stars
March 6, 2017
This book was a HUGE improvement over the last two books. I liked the plot in this one it was different from the first two books and wasn't something that felt like another rehash of similar storylines. It had unique things thrown in setting it apart from others. So far this has been the most likable so far because the characters didn't completely let me down this time. I loved Gunner as a whole and Sydney was tolerable, she still had her moments where I shook my head at her but she was nowhere near as bad as Juliana and Veronica.
Gunner first off, I had no trouble loving him at all. He was honorable, protective, such a sweetheart underneath his intimidating nature. He was my favorite of the original team, not counting Cale because he's just joined. Gunner is one that you can't help but feel for and hope that he gets his happy ending. He's very quiet and reserved. He doesn't really know how to talk to people unless he knows them very well. He looks scary but deep down he's very kind hearted. His battle with himself to keep away from Sydney in order for her and Slade to be happy was admirable and only serves to prove how big his heart is when he can sacrifice his happiness for others by taking himself out of a difficult situation. His guilt and avoidance of Sydney two years after Slade's apparent death although unnecessary was easily understandable given his character's personality. He's very giving and doesn't think highly of himself. He really broke my heart in how much he punished himself because he doesn't think he deserved to be happy. I personally think he could have done a lot better than Sydney but because he wanted her so bad I'm happy that he's happy with her.
Sydney, while I didn't hate or dislike her, I didn't love or like her either. She was just kinda there and not as much a pain in the butt as the other girls. My problem with her was that she knew Gunner better than anyone and instead of just trying to actually talk It out with him like an adult, she scolded him and gave him an ultimatum. She knows how tormented he is after his brother's death and she should understand his hesitance in getting involved with her because for one he feels guilty he couldn't save his brother and two, she was going to marry his brother before he died. She may be able to move on and I'll get to why that is in a second but for Gunner, that was his brother, his family. She was selfish in expecting him to just push all of his guilt aside because she wanted to be with him. I didn't like when she made the statement that "she wasn't going to crawl in the grave with Slade." I get what she was saying but she didn't have to cruelly put it that way. I'm ready to try again or move on would have sufficed just fine because there are people in real life who lose their soulmate early on and would like to pass peacefully to be with them again as living without them is too hard and too long. I'm a firm believer in if it's true love and you've lost your soulmate, you won't marry again because you simply don't want to and no one else will do. Slade was obviously not her soulmate as we found out later on.
She later admitted that she wanted to be with Gunner before Slade had died. This was when I wanted to strangle this girl. She was stringing Slade around when she didn't feel for him the way she felt for Gunner. I hate when girls do this, don't put yourself in a relationship you don't want to be in if you have feelings for someone else, especially if it's his brother. It was selfish on her part and a waste of time for Slade if she got a wake up call one morning and realized that she was unhappy and couldn't go on living a lie. Slade was obviously no injured party himself considering he cheated on her and was doing shady dealings but SHE didn't know that. As far as she knew, he was an innocent man who she was deceiving. I also didn't like the fact that she never found out Slade cheated on her, but I guess that was Gunner's way of protecting her image of their relationship in his death. The one thing I did like about her was her trust in Gunner. Even when all evidence seemed to point to him she refused to believe he was guilty unless it came straight from his own mouth. Her unwavering faith in him was the only thing that saved her for me. I accepted her because she didn't turn coat on him at the first sigh of trouble and learned her lesson well when her team wrongly condemned Cale in the last book for jumping to conclusions when they didn't bother to properly clear him after a thorough investigation. For never doubting him and helping him prove his innocence, she gets a pass for the rest of her flaws as much as I dislike them.
Besides Gunner, Cale has obviously proved to be a very rewarding asset to the team. In fact, I think he's rather too good for them, in my head he and Gunner leave Logan and Sydney in the dust and form their own new and improved EOD team with people who actually know how to use their brain. Just kidding, sort of. I'm looking forward to Cale's story though as he's been my personal favorite so far. I can only hope that his story shows off his skills and talents as we've seen in both this and the last book. Although passed over for the EOD on false information, he's showed that he's 10x better than the rest of the Shadow Agents. He's quick, smart, and one that you'd want to have watching your back. This was more like a book I'll have read one time but won't pick up again. It was good and I liked Gunner but it goes both ways. I have to like the heroine too and while she was acceptable, I don't care to read about her again.
Gunner first off, I had no trouble loving him at all. He was honorable, protective, such a sweetheart underneath his intimidating nature. He was my favorite of the original team, not counting Cale because he's just joined. Gunner is one that you can't help but feel for and hope that he gets his happy ending. He's very quiet and reserved. He doesn't really know how to talk to people unless he knows them very well. He looks scary but deep down he's very kind hearted. His battle with himself to keep away from Sydney in order for her and Slade to be happy was admirable and only serves to prove how big his heart is when he can sacrifice his happiness for others by taking himself out of a difficult situation. His guilt and avoidance of Sydney two years after Slade's apparent death although unnecessary was easily understandable given his character's personality. He's very giving and doesn't think highly of himself. He really broke my heart in how much he punished himself because he doesn't think he deserved to be happy. I personally think he could have done a lot better than Sydney but because he wanted her so bad I'm happy that he's happy with her.
Sydney, while I didn't hate or dislike her, I didn't love or like her either. She was just kinda there and not as much a pain in the butt as the other girls. My problem with her was that she knew Gunner better than anyone and instead of just trying to actually talk It out with him like an adult, she scolded him and gave him an ultimatum. She knows how tormented he is after his brother's death and she should understand his hesitance in getting involved with her because for one he feels guilty he couldn't save his brother and two, she was going to marry his brother before he died. She may be able to move on and I'll get to why that is in a second but for Gunner, that was his brother, his family. She was selfish in expecting him to just push all of his guilt aside because she wanted to be with him. I didn't like when she made the statement that "she wasn't going to crawl in the grave with Slade." I get what she was saying but she didn't have to cruelly put it that way. I'm ready to try again or move on would have sufficed just fine because there are people in real life who lose their soulmate early on and would like to pass peacefully to be with them again as living without them is too hard and too long. I'm a firm believer in if it's true love and you've lost your soulmate, you won't marry again because you simply don't want to and no one else will do. Slade was obviously not her soulmate as we found out later on.
She later admitted that she wanted to be with Gunner before Slade had died. This was when I wanted to strangle this girl. She was stringing Slade around when she didn't feel for him the way she felt for Gunner. I hate when girls do this, don't put yourself in a relationship you don't want to be in if you have feelings for someone else, especially if it's his brother. It was selfish on her part and a waste of time for Slade if she got a wake up call one morning and realized that she was unhappy and couldn't go on living a lie. Slade was obviously no injured party himself considering he cheated on her and was doing shady dealings but SHE didn't know that. As far as she knew, he was an innocent man who she was deceiving. I also didn't like the fact that she never found out Slade cheated on her, but I guess that was Gunner's way of protecting her image of their relationship in his death. The one thing I did like about her was her trust in Gunner. Even when all evidence seemed to point to him she refused to believe he was guilty unless it came straight from his own mouth. Her unwavering faith in him was the only thing that saved her for me. I accepted her because she didn't turn coat on him at the first sigh of trouble and learned her lesson well when her team wrongly condemned Cale in the last book for jumping to conclusions when they didn't bother to properly clear him after a thorough investigation. For never doubting him and helping him prove his innocence, she gets a pass for the rest of her flaws as much as I dislike them.
Besides Gunner, Cale has obviously proved to be a very rewarding asset to the team. In fact, I think he's rather too good for them, in my head he and Gunner leave Logan and Sydney in the dust and form their own new and improved EOD team with people who actually know how to use their brain. Just kidding, sort of. I'm looking forward to Cale's story though as he's been my personal favorite so far. I can only hope that his story shows off his skills and talents as we've seen in both this and the last book. Although passed over for the EOD on false information, he's showed that he's 10x better than the rest of the Shadow Agents. He's quick, smart, and one that you'd want to have watching your back. This was more like a book I'll have read one time but won't pick up again. It was good and I liked Gunner but it goes both ways. I have to like the heroine too and while she was acceptable, I don't care to read about her again.
July 23, 2013
In this third installment of Cynthia Eden’s Shadow Agents series, we finally get to see Sydney and Gunner’s story. If you haven’t been following the series, it’s okay because this can be read as a stand-alone, and if you have, then you know that Sydney was once engaged to Slade, Gunner’s brother. 2 years ago, he was killed in a mission in Peru, and Sydney is ready to move on. Gunner, however, blames himself for the not saving Slade, and thinks Sydney must still be in love with him.
But Sydney has moved on, and she wants to move on with Gunner. But he’s not willing. Not until she finally decides to stop waiting on him.
From the first time Gunner saw Sydney, he knew she could never be his. How could she? He hid the fact his brother cheated on her, and he tried to have her back as much as possible, but he knew that friends and partners were all they could ever be. If he hadn’t forgiven himself for Slade’s death, how could she?
But when he sees her dancing with tall, hot and blond in a club, Gunner can barely drag her out of there fast enough. One thing leads to another, and they finally combust!
Their next mission throws that all out the window, however when they find out who they’re supposed to rescue. They wind up back in Peru, and everything from the target they have to rescue to their time back in the States is thrown into jeopardy.
Between their newfound relationship, and the fact that someone is still ordering hits on Shadow Agents (remember from Guardian Ranger? That bad guy was never caught!), Sydney and Gunner have a hard road in front of them. But with Sydney in the assassin’s sights, can Gunner save her? Or will their past continue to haunt them.
I’ve really enjoyed Cynthia Eden’s Harlequin Intrigues, and I absolutely recommend them to anyone in the mood for a good romantic suspense with an alpha hero.
***ARC courtesy of Harlequin via netgalley
But Sydney has moved on, and she wants to move on with Gunner. But he’s not willing. Not until she finally decides to stop waiting on him.
From the first time Gunner saw Sydney, he knew she could never be his. How could she? He hid the fact his brother cheated on her, and he tried to have her back as much as possible, but he knew that friends and partners were all they could ever be. If he hadn’t forgiven himself for Slade’s death, how could she?
But when he sees her dancing with tall, hot and blond in a club, Gunner can barely drag her out of there fast enough. One thing leads to another, and they finally combust!
Their next mission throws that all out the window, however when they find out who they’re supposed to rescue. They wind up back in Peru, and everything from the target they have to rescue to their time back in the States is thrown into jeopardy.
Between their newfound relationship, and the fact that someone is still ordering hits on Shadow Agents (remember from Guardian Ranger? That bad guy was never caught!), Sydney and Gunner have a hard road in front of them. But with Sydney in the assassin’s sights, can Gunner save her? Or will their past continue to haunt them.
I’ve really enjoyed Cynthia Eden’s Harlequin Intrigues, and I absolutely recommend them to anyone in the mood for a good romantic suspense with an alpha hero.
***ARC courtesy of Harlequin via netgalley
August 25, 2013
This is my first read by Cynthia Eden and I have got to say, she has another fan. What a fantastic read! It is filled with intrigue, mystery, murder, betrayal, and passion. What more could you want in a fast pace read? I found myself hooked to this book and unwilling to put it down until I finished.
Gunner and Slade Ortez “half brothers” had been raised by their Grandfather for most of their lives. Gunner is the strong silent type who holds his feelings in, not one to show his emotions easily. Slade is the good looking one, but always feeling not quite good enough. And both were in love with the same woman.
Sydney Sloan is part of the same Shadow Agents team as Gunner. They both are part of the E.O.D. Elite Ops Division. Two years ago it was Gunner who saved Sydney’s life when a mission went terribly wrong. And for two years these two have kept their attraction for each other at bay. But just as they give into temptation they are called back to the South American jungles of Peru for another rescue mission of an American citizen being held by rebels. What they uncover will be life changing for everyone, Including the E.O.D. team.
I am hoping to be able to read the next book in the series titled Glitter and Gunfire. It is about another member of the E.O.D. team Cale Lane and the woman he is sent to protect Cassidy Sherridan.
Favorite lines:
"When I Close my eyes, I see Your face." His words, so gravel-rough, had her heart racing. "I don't see a ghost, I just see you." His eyes were on her mouth. "You're driving me crazy, taking over every moment of my life." She couldn't breathe. Because what he was saying - that was the way she felt.
5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Gunner and Slade Ortez “half brothers” had been raised by their Grandfather for most of their lives. Gunner is the strong silent type who holds his feelings in, not one to show his emotions easily. Slade is the good looking one, but always feeling not quite good enough. And both were in love with the same woman.
Sydney Sloan is part of the same Shadow Agents team as Gunner. They both are part of the E.O.D. Elite Ops Division. Two years ago it was Gunner who saved Sydney’s life when a mission went terribly wrong. And for two years these two have kept their attraction for each other at bay. But just as they give into temptation they are called back to the South American jungles of Peru for another rescue mission of an American citizen being held by rebels. What they uncover will be life changing for everyone, Including the E.O.D. team.
I am hoping to be able to read the next book in the series titled Glitter and Gunfire. It is about another member of the E.O.D. team Cale Lane and the woman he is sent to protect Cassidy Sherridan.
Favorite lines:
"When I Close my eyes, I see Your face." His words, so gravel-rough, had her heart racing. "I don't see a ghost, I just see you." His eyes were on her mouth. "You're driving me crazy, taking over every moment of my life." She couldn't breathe. Because what he was saying - that was the way she felt.
5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2013
Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
Sydney Sloan’s life was in danger two years ago on a mission gone bad but she was saved by Gunner Ortez. Since then he has been watching her back. Now they are on another mission that is about to go bad. The Elite Ops agents are doing a hostage-rescue that is blowing apart their lives.
Now they are working together and the heat of the jungles of Peru isn’t the only heat around. The passion between Sydney and Gunner is hotter than ever but so are the threats coming their way. Sydney knows the only chance at success on this mission is to trust Gunner. Gunner, an ex-SEAL is also the greatest risk to her heart and the secret she is carrying in her belly.
This is another great book in the Shadow Agents series. It has none stop action and the passion between the characters is great. The plot is well written and the story line keeps the reader so engrossed that they will have the book read in no time and mourning that the book is done. The back story is revealed in such a way that it flows through the story very well and also gives the information about the characters in a way that readers aren’t overwhelmed. This one also have enough twists and turns as to keep readers guessing just what is going to happen next and what is going on. While this can be read as a stand-alone it is much more enjoyable to read the first two books first. This will also have readers hoping for a lot more books in this series.
Sydney Sloan’s life was in danger two years ago on a mission gone bad but she was saved by Gunner Ortez. Since then he has been watching her back. Now they are on another mission that is about to go bad. The Elite Ops agents are doing a hostage-rescue that is blowing apart their lives.
Now they are working together and the heat of the jungles of Peru isn’t the only heat around. The passion between Sydney and Gunner is hotter than ever but so are the threats coming their way. Sydney knows the only chance at success on this mission is to trust Gunner. Gunner, an ex-SEAL is also the greatest risk to her heart and the secret she is carrying in her belly.
This is another great book in the Shadow Agents series. It has none stop action and the passion between the characters is great. The plot is well written and the story line keeps the reader so engrossed that they will have the book read in no time and mourning that the book is done. The back story is revealed in such a way that it flows through the story very well and also gives the information about the characters in a way that readers aren’t overwhelmed. This one also have enough twists and turns as to keep readers guessing just what is going to happen next and what is going on. While this can be read as a stand-alone it is much more enjoyable to read the first two books first. This will also have readers hoping for a lot more books in this series.
July 16, 2013
Gunner Ortez is the sniper for their EOD unit, the Shadow Agents. The team is called the Shadow Agents because they are able to get in and out without leaving any trace they were ever there. Sydney Slone and Gunner have worked together for two years after they believed that Slade, Gunner's brother and Sydney's fiance, was killed during a rescue attempt in the jungle in Peru.
After a successful rescue two years later, Slade is brought back to the U.S. everyone is oblivious that Slade is the bad guy. Gunner believes that he is not good enough for Sydney and is leaving it open for her to go back to his brother, no matter how much he's hurt, if that is what she wants. However, Gunner and Sydney are forced together for her protection, she is on someone's hit list, and throughout the book there is multiple attempts. After some life changing news, Gunner realizes that he can't live without Sydney.
Sharpshooter, like the rest of the Shadow Agent books are attention grabbers. From the first page it is impossible to put it down. I like Gunner and Sydney's chemistry and protectiveness of each other. The book begins with the end of a mission, and does not stop until the last page. The ending keeps you wishing for more.
After a successful rescue two years later, Slade is brought back to the U.S. everyone is oblivious that Slade is the bad guy. Gunner believes that he is not good enough for Sydney and is leaving it open for her to go back to his brother, no matter how much he's hurt, if that is what she wants. However, Gunner and Sydney are forced together for her protection, she is on someone's hit list, and throughout the book there is multiple attempts. After some life changing news, Gunner realizes that he can't live without Sydney.
Sharpshooter, like the rest of the Shadow Agent books are attention grabbers. From the first page it is impossible to put it down. I like Gunner and Sydney's chemistry and protectiveness of each other. The book begins with the end of a mission, and does not stop until the last page. The ending keeps you wishing for more.
October 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. The action, and suspence was intense. I did have a suspecion on who the villian was early on, but I didn’t really know how sick he was till the end of the story. I did love how attentive Gunner was to Sydney, and how much he cared for her. This was an Awesome Action/ romance.
Sydney and Gunner was part of a EOD TEAM. Someone was targeting the members of the team. They learned later on, it was an iside job. Sydney and Gunner was shot at, Sydeny’s house caught fire, and other things happened that made me hold my breath as I read the story. I’m adding this book to my favorite’s list.
Sydney and Gunner was part of a EOD TEAM. Someone was targeting the members of the team. They learned later on, it was an iside job. Sydney and Gunner was shot at, Sydeny’s house caught fire, and other things happened that made me hold my breath as I read the story. I’m adding this book to my favorite’s list.
May 8, 2013
This is the best story in the series.
March 29, 2019
Bagaimana rasanya punya adik yg ternyata psikopat?
Gunner dan Sydney tidak bisa menyelamatkan Slade - adik Gunner sekaligus tunangan Sydney, yg meninggal di Peru. 2 tahun terakhir ini Gunner dan Sydney berhubungan krn sama-sama kehilangan orang yg dicintai mereka. Dan mereka sekarang mendapat kabar bhw Slade masih hidup.
Saat Slade berhasil dibebaskan, air susu dibalas air tuba. Slade menyerang Gunner bertubi-tubi. Slade tidak senang Gunner memiliki Sydney. Slade berusaha terus "meracuni" pikiran Sydney bhw Gunner-lah yg bersalah. Sydney tidak percaya pada Slade segigih apapun Slade katakan. Apalagi Sydney saat ini sudah hamil anak Gunner.
Slade masih punya banyak rencana keji. Dia berusaha membuat Gunner sbg pihak yg jahat dan bersalah. Slade mengadu domba Gunner dgn atasannya, Mercer. Jadi siapakah yg lebih dipercaya oleh DOE dan Sydney, Gunner atau Slade?
Seperti biasa author mewarnai ceritanya dgn suspense dan action baku hantam sepanjang novelnya. Plot ceritanya lumayan menarik krn ttg perseteruan kakak beradik, tetapi tetap mudah dilihat seperti hitam dan putih.
Sayangnya karakter Sydney malah jadi melempem di novel ini. Mungkin pengaruh hormon kehamilan jadi bikin Sydney cengeng. Tapi lumayan baca novel ini krn si psikopat Slade selalu saja punya akal utk "menghabisi" kakaknya. Seperti Malin Kundang versi kakak beradik.
Gunner dan Sydney tidak bisa menyelamatkan Slade - adik Gunner sekaligus tunangan Sydney, yg meninggal di Peru. 2 tahun terakhir ini Gunner dan Sydney berhubungan krn sama-sama kehilangan orang yg dicintai mereka. Dan mereka sekarang mendapat kabar bhw Slade masih hidup.
Saat Slade berhasil dibebaskan, air susu dibalas air tuba. Slade menyerang Gunner bertubi-tubi. Slade tidak senang Gunner memiliki Sydney. Slade berusaha terus "meracuni" pikiran Sydney bhw Gunner-lah yg bersalah. Sydney tidak percaya pada Slade segigih apapun Slade katakan. Apalagi Sydney saat ini sudah hamil anak Gunner.
Slade masih punya banyak rencana keji. Dia berusaha membuat Gunner sbg pihak yg jahat dan bersalah. Slade mengadu domba Gunner dgn atasannya, Mercer. Jadi siapakah yg lebih dipercaya oleh DOE dan Sydney, Gunner atau Slade?
Seperti biasa author mewarnai ceritanya dgn suspense dan action baku hantam sepanjang novelnya. Plot ceritanya lumayan menarik krn ttg perseteruan kakak beradik, tetapi tetap mudah dilihat seperti hitam dan putih.
Sayangnya karakter Sydney malah jadi melempem di novel ini. Mungkin pengaruh hormon kehamilan jadi bikin Sydney cengeng. Tapi lumayan baca novel ini krn si psikopat Slade selalu saja punya akal utk "menghabisi" kakaknya. Seperti Malin Kundang versi kakak beradik.
March 7, 2018
3.5*
Gunner and Sydney's story picks up right where the last book left off. Sydney is the lone woman in this alpha group of guys. She is strong and capable. Gunner is a good hero; however, I thought he took the whole "I'm not good enough" too far. That's for Sydney to decide, right?!
This is a strong 3 for me because I liked both characters and the story flowed and kept me engaged. And for why I didn't rate this a 4, it's because it's too transparent who the "big bad" is. I also didn't like how two (presumably) intelligent adults had sex without any talk of protection and then were shocked (SHOCKED!) when something happened.
Gunner and Sydney's story picks up right where the last book left off. Sydney is the lone woman in this alpha group of guys. She is strong and capable. Gunner is a good hero; however, I thought he took the whole "I'm not good enough" too far. That's for Sydney to decide, right?!
This is a strong 3 for me because I liked both characters and the story flowed and kept me engaged. And for why I didn't rate this a 4, it's because it's too transparent who the "big bad" is. I also didn't like how two (presumably) intelligent adults had sex without any talk of protection and then were shocked (SHOCKED!) when something happened.
June 15, 2018
Gunner and Sydney’s love story was my favorite of the series so far.
In the earlier books, the villains, plot, and supporting characters made the books for me, while the romance left me rolling my eyes. The opposite happened in this book. The villain was awful, over the top, and predictable. The balance of suspense and character building/romance was not great leaving a choppy flow.
Good book overall. The two main characters were easy to connect with and root for.
In the earlier books, the villains, plot, and supporting characters made the books for me, while the romance left me rolling my eyes. The opposite happened in this book. The villain was awful, over the top, and predictable. The balance of suspense and character building/romance was not great leaving a choppy flow.
Good book overall. The two main characters were easy to connect with and root for.
July 12, 2013
Book Info
Paperback, 288 pages
Expected publication: July 23rd 2013 by Harlequin
ISBN 0373747586 (ISBN13: 9780373747580)
series Shadow Agents #3
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
AMAZON
B&N
Heart-pounding action meets smoldering desire in USA TODAY bestselling author Cynthia Eden's Shadow Agents miniseries! Two years ago Gunner Ortez saved Sydney Sloan's life on a mission gone wrong. And ever since then, he's been watching her back. Now a hostage-rescue mission is about to blow the Elite Ops agents' lives apart once again.
Working side by side back in the jungles of Peru, the heat between Sydney and Gunner is hotter than ever-and so are the threats to their lives. With the danger escalating, Sydney knows Gunner is her only hope at successfully completing their assignment. But the ex-SEAL who arouses passion she'd only dreamed about also poses the greatest risk to the secret she carries in her heart...and in her belly
The Shadow Agents series, which started with Alpha One introducing fans to the team members with Logan Quinn and Juliana James story and closely followed by second book; Guardian Ranger which have yet to read, Sharpshooter is the third romantic suspense and for me Gunner and Sydney lit up the pages like fireworks in the night sky and I hope they will for you too!
When Gunner Ortez saved Sydney Sloan during the rescue mission in Peru, that was set up to save her fiancé and Gunner's brother Slade, the pair of EOD agents had to leave the bullet ridden body of Slade behind. In the hail of bullets Sydney and Gunner were both wounded, his decision to either escape to safety with Sydney was the only recourse Gunner had as their backup was decimated by the attack on the EOD team. Two years have passed and in that time Gunner has bided his time while making sure Sydney is kept safe as his number one priority, just when it seems the pair are finally both ready to commit to a relationship their newest assignment has the ability to not only separate them physically but devastate them both emotionally as well.
As part of the romantic suspense series that author Cynthia Eden this third book has all the excitement, thrills, action,romance, mystery and intrigue of the first as well as a leading couple that you just cannot get enough page time with!
From the very beginning to the middle all the way to the end of this book there is a lot going on, as the tension builds to a very climactic ending the answer to the question on everyone's mind as to just what secret Sydney holds is finally answered and it will be a secret that has Gunner terrified and overjoyed all at the same time.
Paperback, 288 pages
Expected publication: July 23rd 2013 by Harlequin
ISBN 0373747586 (ISBN13: 9780373747580)
series Shadow Agents #3
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
AMAZON
B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS
Heart-pounding action meets smoldering desire in USA TODAY bestselling author Cynthia Eden's Shadow Agents miniseries! Two years ago Gunner Ortez saved Sydney Sloan's life on a mission gone wrong. And ever since then, he's been watching her back. Now a hostage-rescue mission is about to blow the Elite Ops agents' lives apart once again.
Working side by side back in the jungles of Peru, the heat between Sydney and Gunner is hotter than ever-and so are the threats to their lives. With the danger escalating, Sydney knows Gunner is her only hope at successfully completing their assignment. But the ex-SEAL who arouses passion she'd only dreamed about also poses the greatest risk to the secret she carries in her heart...and in her belly
My Thoughts
The Shadow Agents series, which started with Alpha One introducing fans to the team members with Logan Quinn and Juliana James story and closely followed by second book; Guardian Ranger which have yet to read, Sharpshooter is the third romantic suspense and for me Gunner and Sydney lit up the pages like fireworks in the night sky and I hope they will for you too!
When Gunner Ortez saved Sydney Sloan during the rescue mission in Peru, that was set up to save her fiancé and Gunner's brother Slade, the pair of EOD agents had to leave the bullet ridden body of Slade behind. In the hail of bullets Sydney and Gunner were both wounded, his decision to either escape to safety with Sydney was the only recourse Gunner had as their backup was decimated by the attack on the EOD team. Two years have passed and in that time Gunner has bided his time while making sure Sydney is kept safe as his number one priority, just when it seems the pair are finally both ready to commit to a relationship their newest assignment has the ability to not only separate them physically but devastate them both emotionally as well.
As part of the romantic suspense series that author Cynthia Eden this third book has all the excitement, thrills, action,romance, mystery and intrigue of the first as well as a leading couple that you just cannot get enough page time with!
From the very beginning to the middle all the way to the end of this book there is a lot going on, as the tension builds to a very climactic ending the answer to the question on everyone's mind as to just what secret Sydney holds is finally answered and it will be a secret that has Gunner terrified and overjoyed all at the same time.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
July 9, 2013
At some point Cynthia Eden is bound to write something I don’t love but she hasn’t done it yet. This book is filled to the brim with so much action and sexiness that I’m surprised it didn’t self combust. Seriously, this book was fantabulous! I have such a huge thing for quiet, brooding heros and heroines who are tougher then their exterior. Sharpshooter gave me both coupled with Eden’s unique voice and compelling story lines.
Sydney is used to being on her own and completely capable of it as well. She may look like a sweet blond but that exterior hides a lethally trained woman who is one of the best at what she does. All the training in the world couldn’t save her fiance two years ago and her and his brother Gunner barely got out with their lives.
Not known for being a talker, Gunner is much better looking down the scope of a gun. That’s the only place he feels at home…except when he’s with Sydney. He knows he doesn’t have the right to ask her but he wants to make her his, permanently. But when a mission reveals more then either imagined will guilt keep them apart after one night of perfect flame?
I’m not sure how Eden does it but she manages to ensnare me every single time. Her combination of Sydney, who is tough on the inside and Gunner, who is tough on the outside made for a perfect story line wrought with emotion. The re-emergence of a past long thought dead makes things even harder for their budding relationship and he subsequently pushes her away. Of course at the worst possible time because there is something Sydney needs to tell Gunner and now that he’s stepping back and cooling off, she doesn’t know how.
I loved how protective Gunner was of Sydney even though she’s highly trained and totally capable. He’s always watching her back and he’s quick to come to her aid, even after he pushes her away. Though the story arc with them was slightly predictable and follows a troupe I’ve read a million times Eden makes it feel new and fresh. Sharpshooter is a fairly short read that is high octane from beginning to end. It pushes the overall series arc along at a good pace and gives the reader a good lead up to the next book. I am eagerly anticipating the next one…just like I am for all Cynthia Eden’s books!
I give Sharpshooter by Cynthia Eden 5 stars!
Sydney is used to being on her own and completely capable of it as well. She may look like a sweet blond but that exterior hides a lethally trained woman who is one of the best at what she does. All the training in the world couldn’t save her fiance two years ago and her and his brother Gunner barely got out with their lives.
Not known for being a talker, Gunner is much better looking down the scope of a gun. That’s the only place he feels at home…except when he’s with Sydney. He knows he doesn’t have the right to ask her but he wants to make her his, permanently. But when a mission reveals more then either imagined will guilt keep them apart after one night of perfect flame?
I’m not sure how Eden does it but she manages to ensnare me every single time. Her combination of Sydney, who is tough on the inside and Gunner, who is tough on the outside made for a perfect story line wrought with emotion. The re-emergence of a past long thought dead makes things even harder for their budding relationship and he subsequently pushes her away. Of course at the worst possible time because there is something Sydney needs to tell Gunner and now that he’s stepping back and cooling off, she doesn’t know how.
I loved how protective Gunner was of Sydney even though she’s highly trained and totally capable. He’s always watching her back and he’s quick to come to her aid, even after he pushes her away. Though the story arc with them was slightly predictable and follows a troupe I’ve read a million times Eden makes it feel new and fresh. Sharpshooter is a fairly short read that is high octane from beginning to end. It pushes the overall series arc along at a good pace and gives the reader a good lead up to the next book. I am eagerly anticipating the next one…just like I am for all Cynthia Eden’s books!
I give Sharpshooter by Cynthia Eden 5 stars!
August 2, 2013
Posted on Romancing the Books blog
Reviewed by Nadene
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
I absolutely love Cynthia Eden’s work and was thrilled at the opportunity to read and review this title and I was not disappointed. This was a very exciting read. Sharpshooter is filled with action, suspense, mystery and romance. Ms. Eden knows just how to hold my interest to the very end. This is the third book in the Shadow Agents series which can be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the other books in the series as yet so I am unable to make any comparisons.
Gunner Ortez, a former Navy Seal who currently works with an Elite Ops Division as a sharpshooter, has been in love with Sydney Sloan for a long time. Sydney is the Division’s computer and investigation guru who was engaged to Gunner’s brother, Slade. During a rescue mission to Peru things went awry which left Slade dead and Gunner and Sydney injured. They were unable to retrieve Slade’s body and were forced to leave Peru without it.
Two years later Sydney had come to terms with Slade’s death and was ready to move on with her life. Gunner and Sydney had grown closer as a result of them working on Ops together. During this time their feelings for each other intensified. Gunner tried to fight what he was feeling but his love for Sydney was too strong and he ended up giving in. However, their new found bliss was about to hit a snag when it was discovered on another rescue mission that Slade was alive and being held hostage. At this point the story really heats up. What were Gunner and Sydney going to do now that Slade is back? The action and suspense intensified. It was easy to figure out who the villain was but what made the story electrifying was trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
This story is well written and is filled with a lot of twists and turns. It was just the right pace not too fast and not too slow. I loved how the author developed the main characters. It was great to see them letting go of the past so that they could hold on to what the future had for them. I disliked the villain. This was a very deceptive and tricky individual.
Sharpshooter is an explosive, fast paced romantic suspense about true love and the negative impact that jealousy can have on a relationship, so if you enjoy stories such as this then you should give this book a shot.
Reviewed by Nadene
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
I absolutely love Cynthia Eden’s work and was thrilled at the opportunity to read and review this title and I was not disappointed. This was a very exciting read. Sharpshooter is filled with action, suspense, mystery and romance. Ms. Eden knows just how to hold my interest to the very end. This is the third book in the Shadow Agents series which can be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the other books in the series as yet so I am unable to make any comparisons.
Gunner Ortez, a former Navy Seal who currently works with an Elite Ops Division as a sharpshooter, has been in love with Sydney Sloan for a long time. Sydney is the Division’s computer and investigation guru who was engaged to Gunner’s brother, Slade. During a rescue mission to Peru things went awry which left Slade dead and Gunner and Sydney injured. They were unable to retrieve Slade’s body and were forced to leave Peru without it.
Two years later Sydney had come to terms with Slade’s death and was ready to move on with her life. Gunner and Sydney had grown closer as a result of them working on Ops together. During this time their feelings for each other intensified. Gunner tried to fight what he was feeling but his love for Sydney was too strong and he ended up giving in. However, their new found bliss was about to hit a snag when it was discovered on another rescue mission that Slade was alive and being held hostage. At this point the story really heats up. What were Gunner and Sydney going to do now that Slade is back? The action and suspense intensified. It was easy to figure out who the villain was but what made the story electrifying was trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
This story is well written and is filled with a lot of twists and turns. It was just the right pace not too fast and not too slow. I loved how the author developed the main characters. It was great to see them letting go of the past so that they could hold on to what the future had for them. I disliked the villain. This was a very deceptive and tricky individual.
Sharpshooter is an explosive, fast paced romantic suspense about true love and the negative impact that jealousy can have on a relationship, so if you enjoy stories such as this then you should give this book a shot.
May 3, 2013
4 STARS
Sharpshooter keeps you guessing in some ways and others I figured out where the story was heading but enjoyed the ride getting there.
It was a lot of action, drama. a few sex scenes. The plot was a little twisty. Gunner was Sydney team mate but Sydney wanted more. Two years ago she was engaged to his brother but he died down in Peru. Both Gunner and Sydney were shot a couple of times trying to rescue him. They saw him shot all up and bleeding out. Gunner could not find a pulse and he needed to get Sydney away to safety. Then after they became lovers they were sent in to rescue him. He had survived as a prisoner for two years.
Gunner and Sydney were elite Shadow Agents part of a four man team. They were often sent to rescue others. Gunner has loved Sydney as soon as he met her. She was already dating his younger half brother. After two years he gave into her wanting him said she was ready to live again if it wasn't going to be him she would find someone else. The next morning after they slept together they were sent back to Peru and the hostage was Slade.
Slade was so angry and bitter against Gunner he went right up to him and started hitting him and yelling that he had sold him out because he wanted Sydney. Slade had been given a new drug that caused violence and paranoia. He threatened to give secrets out to the media about the top secret group if Gunner was not investigated about leaving him down their.
Gunner broke it off with Sydney, because Slade was her fiancé. He thought she loved Slade over him. Sydney was feeling hurt by Gunner. Then someone was trying to kill Sydney. The finger was pointing to Gunner. Slade was one of the fingers pointing to Gunner killing her because he had done it before.
This is the second shadow agent book that I have read and I have liked both of them. I really want to read the second one that I have missed. I also want to read the next one it looks good to me. It was a fast and easy read. I do admit to skipping over the couple of love scenes.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
publication: July 23rd 2013 by Harlequin Imprint: Harlequin Intrigue 288 pages ISBN:0373747586
September 21, 2014
3.5 stars really
So, I have been a bit lukewarm about the Shadow Agents series so far (the name doesn't help). I felt that was acceptable/understandable Alpha male behaviour in a paranormal novel came across as a bit cheesy in a military/special ops novel.
I also recall that I found the military aspects (from someone who know absolutely nothing about such things) a little 'off', as if it came from a small amount of google research to make it sound authentic. These comments are made having read a lot of other authors in this genre.
So, what made this one different? Maybe because Sydney is one of the Shadow Agents? Maybe because, for all his scars and sniper skills, Gunner strikes me as more of a Beta male? As a random aside, I read a great article on Heroes and Heartbreakers this week about Beta heroes and although I've never read any of the books listed (or authors) this definitely struck a chord – especially the bit about these heroes treating women with respect.
So, I had fairly low expectations going into this novel but I was pleasantly surprised. The basic premise appeared to be following a tried and trusted formula. Girl and boy meet and fall in love, get engaged. Guy's brother also falls in love with girl. Guy dies. Girl and his brother fall in love but are too afraid to tell each other. When they finally do, brother turns out not to be dead (da, da, daaaa). But then Cynthia Eden (metaphorically) says, nah, been there, done that let's change things up. And that's when the novel started to come alive for me.
So, because it's a suspense novel I won't spoil it. Yes, there are twists and double twists. No, none of them are shocking. But yes, it makes the novel (in my opinion) the best of the three Shadow Agent books. Also the military aspects (by which I mean descriptions of guns, other equipment, terminology etc) did not jar – whether it was because they were handled better or because there were fewer references in this book I don't know.
I have already pre-ordered book 4
So, I have been a bit lukewarm about the Shadow Agents series so far (the name doesn't help). I felt that was acceptable/understandable Alpha male behaviour in a paranormal novel came across as a bit cheesy in a military/special ops novel.
I also recall that I found the military aspects (from someone who know absolutely nothing about such things) a little 'off', as if it came from a small amount of google research to make it sound authentic. These comments are made having read a lot of other authors in this genre.
So, what made this one different? Maybe because Sydney is one of the Shadow Agents? Maybe because, for all his scars and sniper skills, Gunner strikes me as more of a Beta male? As a random aside, I read a great article on Heroes and Heartbreakers this week about Beta heroes and although I've never read any of the books listed (or authors) this definitely struck a chord – especially the bit about these heroes treating women with respect.
So, I had fairly low expectations going into this novel but I was pleasantly surprised. The basic premise appeared to be following a tried and trusted formula. Girl and boy meet and fall in love, get engaged. Guy's brother also falls in love with girl. Guy dies. Girl and his brother fall in love but are too afraid to tell each other. When they finally do, brother turns out not to be dead (da, da, daaaa). But then Cynthia Eden (metaphorically) says, nah, been there, done that let's change things up. And that's when the novel started to come alive for me.
So, because it's a suspense novel I won't spoil it. Yes, there are twists and double twists. No, none of them are shocking. But yes, it makes the novel (in my opinion) the best of the three Shadow Agent books. Also the military aspects (by which I mean descriptions of guns, other equipment, terminology etc) did not jar – whether it was because they were handled better or because there were fewer references in this book I don't know.
I have already pre-ordered book 4
January 6, 2022
I didn't expect it to be this good. I just picked a book in the series where the heroine is a tough girl. Sydney, first I like the name. Then she is a smart & tough agent She lost Slade, her fiancee in a mission gone wrong. She and Gunner left Slade's body in the jungle. They were injured badly and Slade wasn't breathing anymore. If they didn't let Slade, they will be dead too.
Gunner is a bit introverted man. He won't talk much or show his feelings much to a stranger. But for his team & Sydney, he would do anything. Behind that cold facade, he is a caring man.
Two years after that horrible event, Gunner and Sydney still grieving but they keep their distance. Gunner being a very gentleman that he is won't pursue Sydney, his late brother's fiancee. Although his feeling for her will never leave him. While Sydney is ready to move on starts the new chapter of her life. But deep down, she knew that she wants Gunner.
I haven't read the first two books of the series, but it looks like Gunner & Sydney's complicated relationship started there. So, I need to read that ASAP in order to understand better. While Gunner saw Sydney flirted with a strange man, he couldn't take it anymore, and finally, he gave up his restrain and pursue his feelings toward Sydney.
Their happy moments are just temporary because EOD pulls them to a rescue mission, which turns out the hostage is none other than Slade. He is still very much alive and has his own agenda. Gunner felt guilty for stealing Sydney so he backs away and lets Slade take her back. Of course, Sydney is furious. She's not merchandise to be taken over, she has her own feelings.
I like that although Slade is coming back, Sydney's feelings toward Gunner doesn't waver. I believe she always has been loving Gunner from the start. This is where the conflict starts.
The suspense and the romance portion are balanced. I know from earlier who the bad guy is but it didn't take away the enjoyment.
Gunner is a bit introverted man. He won't talk much or show his feelings much to a stranger. But for his team & Sydney, he would do anything. Behind that cold facade, he is a caring man.
Two years after that horrible event, Gunner and Sydney still grieving but they keep their distance. Gunner being a very gentleman that he is won't pursue Sydney, his late brother's fiancee. Although his feeling for her will never leave him. While Sydney is ready to move on starts the new chapter of her life. But deep down, she knew that she wants Gunner.
I haven't read the first two books of the series, but it looks like Gunner & Sydney's complicated relationship started there. So, I need to read that ASAP in order to understand better. While Gunner saw Sydney flirted with a strange man, he couldn't take it anymore, and finally, he gave up his restrain and pursue his feelings toward Sydney.
Their happy moments are just temporary because EOD pulls them to a rescue mission, which turns out the hostage is none other than Slade. He is still very much alive and has his own agenda. Gunner felt guilty for stealing Sydney so he backs away and lets Slade take her back. Of course, Sydney is furious. She's not merchandise to be taken over, she has her own feelings.
I like that although Slade is coming back, Sydney's feelings toward Gunner doesn't waver. I believe she always has been loving Gunner from the start. This is where the conflict starts.
The suspense and the romance portion are balanced. I know from earlier who the bad guy is but it didn't take away the enjoyment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2013
This was a great suspense. Once I started I did not want to put it down and even got slightly annoyed when interrupted as it took me out of the story and finding out what was going to happen next.
I normally would not read a book in a series out of order but since I didn't have 1 and 2 easily accessible and I really wanted to read this I gave it shot. Luckily it is a completely stand alone book. I think there are a few relationships and prior stories that may be mentioned in here but they are not a part of the storyline and do not affect the character development or actions of the hero and heroine.
I really enjoyed the story and watching the relationship develop and change between the main characters. They were likeable and had a good history that you learn about but which doesnt take over the main story. Watching them work together to solve the issues that are facing not only them but the safety of the group they work in makes a great story. The story is fast paced and practically non stop which is fine because you dont want it to either.
All in all if you want a great romantic suspense check this out. I am definitely looking forward to more and cant wait to get my hands on books 1 and 2.
I normally would not read a book in a series out of order but since I didn't have 1 and 2 easily accessible and I really wanted to read this I gave it shot. Luckily it is a completely stand alone book. I think there are a few relationships and prior stories that may be mentioned in here but they are not a part of the storyline and do not affect the character development or actions of the hero and heroine.
I really enjoyed the story and watching the relationship develop and change between the main characters. They were likeable and had a good history that you learn about but which doesnt take over the main story. Watching them work together to solve the issues that are facing not only them but the safety of the group they work in makes a great story. The story is fast paced and practically non stop which is fine because you dont want it to either.
All in all if you want a great romantic suspense check this out. I am definitely looking forward to more and cant wait to get my hands on books 1 and 2.
September 3, 2016
Sharpshooter by Cynthia Eden is the 3rd book in her Shadow Agents series. Though it’s part of a series it can be read without reading to other books first. But don’t be surprised if, like me, you find yourself wanting to read the other two after this one.
Sharpshooter is a quick and entertaining read filled with action, danger, romance and a touch of angst. It focuses on Gunner and Sydney, two very likable characters. Gunner has always wanted Sydney even when she was with his brother Slade. Slade died a couple years earlier and Gunner has come to a point that he doesn’t want to hold back from Sydney anymore. Meanwhile Sydney is tired of waiting for Gunner and is ready to start living again instead of just existing from mission to mission.
Sydney is a smart, strong and capable heroine. Gunner is steady, stoic and tough. He is very aware and protective of Sydney. Their relationship is put to the test in this book and it’s a joy to read along as these compelling characters come together.
Sharpshooter is highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense.
Sharpshooter is a quick and entertaining read filled with action, danger, romance and a touch of angst. It focuses on Gunner and Sydney, two very likable characters. Gunner has always wanted Sydney even when she was with his brother Slade. Slade died a couple years earlier and Gunner has come to a point that he doesn’t want to hold back from Sydney anymore. Meanwhile Sydney is tired of waiting for Gunner and is ready to start living again instead of just existing from mission to mission.
Sydney is a smart, strong and capable heroine. Gunner is steady, stoic and tough. He is very aware and protective of Sydney. Their relationship is put to the test in this book and it’s a joy to read along as these compelling characters come together.
Sharpshooter is highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense.
October 31, 2024
I have no idea how I've overlooked this series because I am a huge Cynthia Eden fan. This is the first contemporary book of her's I've read and it didn't disappoint. Lots of action, plenty of suspense and a wonderful romance kept this book rolling. Gunner....such a strong man, the kind you definitely want at your back. The kind of man any woman would be proud to call her own. The kind of man you want in your bed cause you know he's all kinds of intense! Sydney, man that woman is strong. The things she had to deal with would've put me in my bed for months just trying to let it all pass. The two of them together? Phenomenal! Now I've just got to go back and read the first two books. Hopefully Ms. Eden will keep cranking these books out cause I'm hooked. I read this as a stand alone and had no problems knowing what was going on, but I'm sure they're much better read in order. Totally recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
August 7, 2013
Cynthia Eden has done it again. Loving her Shadow Agents series. Sharpshooter did not disappoint either. It was action-packed and fast-paced. It had everything I look for in a good book. Just the perfect amount of mystery, romance, twists & turns, drama and suspense.
I really enjoyed the 2 main characters, Gunner and Sydney. They were very likeable and both were strongwilled and at the same time, vulnerable. The bond between them was unbreakable no matter what happened. They were equally matched personalities; it was a perfect match.
I don’t want to say too much and spoil anything, but the supporting cast was also well done. Lots of shocks throughout the story. This really kept you glued to your chair and wanting to keep reading.
As usual, Ms. Eden is such a talented author, she does mystery and suspense as great as she does her paranormal genre. Well written and worth the money.
I look forward to reading her next Shadow Agents installment.
I really enjoyed the 2 main characters, Gunner and Sydney. They were very likeable and both were strongwilled and at the same time, vulnerable. The bond between them was unbreakable no matter what happened. They were equally matched personalities; it was a perfect match.
I don’t want to say too much and spoil anything, but the supporting cast was also well done. Lots of shocks throughout the story. This really kept you glued to your chair and wanting to keep reading.
As usual, Ms. Eden is such a talented author, she does mystery and suspense as great as she does her paranormal genre. Well written and worth the money.
I look forward to reading her next Shadow Agents installment.
February 8, 2017
What a marvelous, marvelous story this was! So exciting, nerve-wracking and thrilling story 'Sharpshooter' has been. I believe I found another Suspense-romance author whose works I will look up to and favored most. This is my second time reading a Cynthia Eden's book and it's safe to say that I will hunt them all.
I immensely enjoy this story, at first, I was doubtful because of the third-party involved on the two main characters, Syd and Gunner. Fortunately for me, I went along with my instinct to read the book and what a great feeling that was. I kept sighing in a good way because every scene is everything I'be been looking for a suspense book. There's so many unspoken words between Syd and Gunner on the early pages that could have save them a lot of trouble in their relationship yet that what made the story even better. I can't even properly explain how all the events on this book excites me while I read, all I know is that certainly this one's will be on my favorites.
I immensely enjoy this story, at first, I was doubtful because of the third-party involved on the two main characters, Syd and Gunner. Fortunately for me, I went along with my instinct to read the book and what a great feeling that was. I kept sighing in a good way because every scene is everything I'be been looking for a suspense book. There's so many unspoken words between Syd and Gunner on the early pages that could have save them a lot of trouble in their relationship yet that what made the story even better. I can't even properly explain how all the events on this book excites me while I read, all I know is that certainly this one's will be on my favorites.
July 8, 2013
SHARPSHOOTER (Shadow Agents) by Cynthia Eden
PUBLICATION DATE: (Paperback) July 23, 2013, (eBook) August 1, 2013
REVIEWED BY: Reading In Pajamas/ Donna
RATED: 4.5 Stars
REVIEW:
This is book three in the Shadow Agent's Miniseries. I was looking forward to Gunner and Sydney's story and I was not disappointed. The Shadow Agent team is a close knit unit with all their different personalities meshing together. The action was well written and this book had my stomach knotted! Their desire for each other built with each book and finally came together in a most satisfying way. I sure hope there is a book 4 coming!
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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PUBLICATION DATE: (Paperback) July 23, 2013, (eBook) August 1, 2013
REVIEWED BY: Reading In Pajamas/ Donna
RATED: 4.5 Stars
REVIEW:
This is book three in the Shadow Agent's Miniseries. I was looking forward to Gunner and Sydney's story and I was not disappointed. The Shadow Agent team is a close knit unit with all their different personalities meshing together. The action was well written and this book had my stomach knotted! Their desire for each other built with each book and finally came together in a most satisfying way. I sure hope there is a book 4 coming!
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-lk
https://www.facebook.com/ReadingInPaj...
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http://www.goodreads.com/readinginpaj...
Twitter: @readingpajamas
February 6, 2017
3.5 Stars. I was really looking forward to this book and while I enjoyed it - the book didn't quite live up to my expectations. Gunner was a great hero and I loved his character - the character development was really good and it really helped to understand and fall for him. Sydney however wasn't as fleshed out and I would have like a bit more character development for her. I loved the chemistry between the two of them and although I thought the plot was obvious and there were not really any surprises I still enjoyed it. However, I can't believe that two experienced agents would ever do some of the things they did while on a mission. Personal feelings/actions would be put aside until the mission was complete. I loved how loyal Sydney was and that she didn't just believe the evidence. Looking forward to more books in this series.
July 15, 2014
Oh how I loved Gunner and Sydney since they were introduced in Guardian Ranger. The author did not disappointment in their story. I am beginning to believe that Cynthia Eden CANNOT write a bad romantic suspense book.
This story kept you on the edge of your seat and guessing throughout the book. I not only enjoyed Gunner and Sydney's relationship but the intrigue and suspense as well. I can't wait to get started on the next book in this series. This series satisfies my mystery/suspense cravings.
This story kept you on the edge of your seat and guessing throughout the book. I not only enjoyed Gunner and Sydney's relationship but the intrigue and suspense as well. I can't wait to get started on the next book in this series. This series satisfies my mystery/suspense cravings.
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