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Against the Odds #1
Pickpocket
Zaydra Miller is on the run. She has escaped unspeakable evil by using her photographic memory and her skill. Now she moves from city to city, never staying too long. She’s a certified borrower of things. It is her classy way of calling herself a pickpocket. She borrows things to survive, and to stay off the grid. So the abuse from her past can’t catch up with her. She has never had an issue until St. Louis. She pickpockets the wrong man and finds herself in jail.
Collin Reeves is a desperate man. He will do anything he can to rescue his kidnapped niece. Ex-Special Forces, now a self-made millionaire, he’s got a lot of resources at his disposal. He still hasn’t heard a single thing about her disappearance. Until the night he finally gets a tip on her whereabouts, the tip could only be opened alone. The only tip he’s gotten in six months. So it’s in his wallet until he can make it home. That is until it’s stolen from him.
They must decide on whether to keep butting heads or to use their skills to team up to find an innocent girl who is going through hell. Maybe they’ll find each other along the way. Or will they let the demons from each other’s pasts destroy everything that could be?
Collin Reeves is a desperate man. He will do anything he can to rescue his kidnapped niece. Ex-Special Forces, now a self-made millionaire, he’s got a lot of resources at his disposal. He still hasn’t heard a single thing about her disappearance. Until the night he finally gets a tip on her whereabouts, the tip could only be opened alone. The only tip he’s gotten in six months. So it’s in his wallet until he can make it home. That is until it’s stolen from him.
They must decide on whether to keep butting heads or to use their skills to team up to find an innocent girl who is going through hell. Maybe they’ll find each other along the way. Or will they let the demons from each other’s pasts destroy everything that could be?
- GenresContemporaryAbuseAction
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2019
66 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 14, 2019
Wow. I’m so glad I decided to take a chance on new author Christa DeClue and her debut novel, Pickpocket. DeClue weaves an intricately told tale and makes both mains flawed people that you just want to root for. I especially rooted for Zaydra, I just found her so real and so relatable (even though I have not personally shared all of her experiences) and so strong. There is also quite a bit of humor in this book, not least due to Amber, the friend with no filter that we all seem to have. I enjoyed this story so very much, from the heart, to the humor, to the panty-melting sexytimes scenes, and I look forward eagerly to new works from this new star on the literary scene.
June 16, 2019
This is one of the best debut novel I’ve ever read. Ms. Declue will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride. While the topic is serious, she added humor in the mix.
I love the “hot and cold” moments between Collin and Zaydra as they faced and conquered the demons that have been haunting them. You won’t be able to resist the Alpha Man who loves the BackStreet Boys! It was fun watching Collin wanting to save Zaydra one minute and resisting to strangle her the next! Zaydra will own your heart! She’s fierce, funny and her strength is incredible, I love her loyalty and compassion for others.
The suspense will have you at the edge of wherever you are sitting and you’ll find yourself holding your breath and your heart beating faster as you turn the pages.
I truly enjoyed this book. Looking forward to Christa’s next book.
I love the “hot and cold” moments between Collin and Zaydra as they faced and conquered the demons that have been haunting them. You won’t be able to resist the Alpha Man who loves the BackStreet Boys! It was fun watching Collin wanting to save Zaydra one minute and resisting to strangle her the next! Zaydra will own your heart! She’s fierce, funny and her strength is incredible, I love her loyalty and compassion for others.
The suspense will have you at the edge of wherever you are sitting and you’ll find yourself holding your breath and your heart beating faster as you turn the pages.
I truly enjoyed this book. Looking forward to Christa’s next book.
June 27, 2019
It had potential but...
It was good for debut novel.
I hope there is a book for Amber and Ryan next.
😂😢👅👛💸🔫🍩🚔🔐
It was good for debut novel.
I hope there is a book for Amber and Ryan next.
😂😢👅👛💸🔫🍩🚔🔐
June 14, 2020
4.5 stars!
I really love discovering new authors! I would have never guessed that this was Christa's debut novel! I almost passed this one up but changed my mind at the last minute, and I'm so glad I did as this was a wonderful story. It held me Captive from beginning to end.
I really love discovering new authors! I would have never guessed that this was Christa's debut novel! I almost passed this one up but changed my mind at the last minute, and I'm so glad I did as this was a wonderful story. It held me Captive from beginning to end.
August 16, 2020
4.7 stars
For a debut novel, it’s really good. I love the banter and the heroine’s feistiness and the hero is all alpha but will melt for his lady. Amber stole the show though and I can’t wait to dive into her book next.
For a debut novel, it’s really good. I love the banter and the heroine’s feistiness and the hero is all alpha but will melt for his lady. Amber stole the show though and I can’t wait to dive into her book next.
June 15, 2019
I love finding new to me authors. This is Christa’s debut novel! Her words flowed well & kept me very very interested from page 1! I can’t wait to see what Christa writes next
February 6, 2022
Liked the kick-ass heroine who has to do whatever it takes to survive even if that means pickpocketing the totally hot guy she deliberately bumps into on the street.
Only the wallet she stole has a piece of paper that could save said hot guy’s kidnapped niece.
Unfortunately she tosses the wallet in the trash. Not before she glances at the piece of paper.
Fortunately, she had an eidetic memory.
The surprises are fun and it’s the supporting cast that make this an entertaining read even if a skosh disbelieving that billionaire hot guy would have a soft spot for the homeless but gorgeous pickpocket.
Only the wallet she stole has a piece of paper that could save said hot guy’s kidnapped niece.
Unfortunately she tosses the wallet in the trash. Not before she glances at the piece of paper.
Fortunately, she had an eidetic memory.
The surprises are fun and it’s the supporting cast that make this an entertaining read even if a skosh disbelieving that billionaire hot guy would have a soft spot for the homeless but gorgeous pickpocket.
June 11, 2020
I cannot believe that this is Christa DeClue's debut novel... Seriously, from beginning to end I was completely hooked on Zayda and Collin's story.. like make your own dinner, ignore all adult responsibilities HOOKED! Pickpocket was one heck of a ride ya"ll! All the suspense, push & pull, angsty goodness, laugh out loud moments & one unique connection...Seriously, ALL THE FEELS! I cannot say enough how much I truly enjoyed this read! && I'll definitely be reading more from this author!
June 16, 2019
Fucking loved this. So much. Now I need Amber’s book because that woman had me in absolute stitches
June 11, 2020
I was super surprised that this was a debut novel and enjoyed it. Zaydra and Collins first meeting was the total opposite of what you might think and made me laugh but when they join a truce so to speak you get the genuine connection they have even though they are wading through some serious water.
June 26, 2019
**0 stars**
This kind of writing style which is fluent and occasionally humorous would have been wonderdul in a romance book. However, it is insensitive for this kind of theme. The background of the characters and story plot described as in a comic book, superficially without any dept. The issues like humantraffiking and abuse is very very serious events, and it is not a light hearted theme for a romance book. The psychologic and physical trauma after such an catastrophic event lasts for a life time, the survivors (if any) need comprehensive help to continue their lives as normal as they could, which is not possible for most of the cases. I could not understand the people who find any kind of romantic idea in these horrible events, and demeaning their importance.
This kind of writing style which is fluent and occasionally humorous would have been wonderdul in a romance book. However, it is insensitive for this kind of theme. The background of the characters and story plot described as in a comic book, superficially without any dept. The issues like humantraffiking and abuse is very very serious events, and it is not a light hearted theme for a romance book. The psychologic and physical trauma after such an catastrophic event lasts for a life time, the survivors (if any) need comprehensive help to continue their lives as normal as they could, which is not possible for most of the cases. I could not understand the people who find any kind of romantic idea in these horrible events, and demeaning their importance.
May 25, 2020
What an absolute treasure it was to find this new author! OMG, I was hooked straight away and literally had to make myself put the book down to do work.
Zaydra Miller and Collin Reeves met after a less than stellar introduction but for all the right reasons. Theirs was an instant chemistry that was so red hot and fully combustible.
The lead characters are both great, actually all of the ‘good’ characters are fantastic. I can’t wait to read Amber’s story but want to read each guy’s story as well, hint, hint! Zaydra was such a self-reliant, strong woman, she’s had to be and it certainly has meant she’s learnt a variety of interesting skills. Her heart was as big as Australia and her compassion for others in need-enormous. Collin was a self-made man who had a determination that helped him to champion for those who needed him. His ability to see good in others was one of the things I admired about him as well as his sexy ways. 😉
‘A certified borrower of things’ is a fantastic description of a pickpocket and just one of the great descriptions in this book. The humour in this book was fantastic and there are so many times when it sneaks up and takes you by surprise making you totally laugh out loud-even with a mouthful of coffee. The underlying theme is very serious but is handled exceptionally well.
I have to admit I was very surprised to discover this was a debut book for this author, I was absolutely stunned because this literally read like a book written by a seasoned writer. I am ready for Wannabe, book two which is sitting on my kindle! 😉
Zaydra Miller and Collin Reeves met after a less than stellar introduction but for all the right reasons. Theirs was an instant chemistry that was so red hot and fully combustible.
The lead characters are both great, actually all of the ‘good’ characters are fantastic. I can’t wait to read Amber’s story but want to read each guy’s story as well, hint, hint! Zaydra was such a self-reliant, strong woman, she’s had to be and it certainly has meant she’s learnt a variety of interesting skills. Her heart was as big as Australia and her compassion for others in need-enormous. Collin was a self-made man who had a determination that helped him to champion for those who needed him. His ability to see good in others was one of the things I admired about him as well as his sexy ways. 😉
‘A certified borrower of things’ is a fantastic description of a pickpocket and just one of the great descriptions in this book. The humour in this book was fantastic and there are so many times when it sneaks up and takes you by surprise making you totally laugh out loud-even with a mouthful of coffee. The underlying theme is very serious but is handled exceptionally well.
I have to admit I was very surprised to discover this was a debut book for this author, I was absolutely stunned because this literally read like a book written by a seasoned writer. I am ready for Wannabe, book two which is sitting on my kindle! 😉
June 12, 2020
An amazing debut book
Pickpocket is Christa DeClue’s amazing debut book, and I can tell you now that she is one hell of a talented writer and that you need to give this author a go right now! Get in on the bottom floor and hang on for the ride, because this lady is going places. She has combined the ingredients of romantic suspense and a dark and gritty subject with witty humour and enough heat to make this a full flavoured reading experience. And, her characters are the strongest of people in spite of the situations they’ve been in.
Zaydra is one hell of a rough diamond, and she’s just as tough to crack. Life was at first idyllic for her, until it turned into a nightmare after losing her mother, and she has since felt safer hiding in the streets. I loved her feistiness and her mental toughness. She was completely bad@ss.
Collin Reeves is the epitome of an alpha male. He’s ex-military and spent time as leader of his special ops team. Their loyalty to him is absolute, and these guys, all Grade-A man-candy apparently, will follow him into hell and back. The comradery between them added to the book in spades, and I would love to be reading their stories.
Ms. DeClue has put together a plot that once started, I couldn’t put it down, and it was one to drop a shock horror bomb on me at the end. I recommend it to everyone who loves feisty heroines and Grade-A Alphas. 5 Stars.
Pickpocket is Christa DeClue’s amazing debut book, and I can tell you now that she is one hell of a talented writer and that you need to give this author a go right now! Get in on the bottom floor and hang on for the ride, because this lady is going places. She has combined the ingredients of romantic suspense and a dark and gritty subject with witty humour and enough heat to make this a full flavoured reading experience. And, her characters are the strongest of people in spite of the situations they’ve been in.
Zaydra is one hell of a rough diamond, and she’s just as tough to crack. Life was at first idyllic for her, until it turned into a nightmare after losing her mother, and she has since felt safer hiding in the streets. I loved her feistiness and her mental toughness. She was completely bad@ss.
Collin Reeves is the epitome of an alpha male. He’s ex-military and spent time as leader of his special ops team. Their loyalty to him is absolute, and these guys, all Grade-A man-candy apparently, will follow him into hell and back. The comradery between them added to the book in spades, and I would love to be reading their stories.
Ms. DeClue has put together a plot that once started, I couldn’t put it down, and it was one to drop a shock horror bomb on me at the end. I recommend it to everyone who loves feisty heroines and Grade-A Alphas. 5 Stars.
June 15, 2019
I am always excited when I’m introduced to a new writer and when I heard about Christa DeClue’s debut release, I looked forward to the opportunity to read her words, and am so glad I did.
Her characters intrigued me, as did their back stories, and upon introduction to them in Pickpocket, I needed to know more. Christa paints a picture with her words that make the reader feel like they are part of the story, experiencing the events right alongside the characters, and feeling what they are feeling ~ good, bad and ugly. She grabbed my interest from the very first page and held it until the very last word.
Christa addresses a tough subject matter in Pickpocket, and does it in such a way that I believe will have all readers wanting to know, “what can we do to put an end to this”. And while this story is very heavy at times, there are also light moments, exciting moments, and definitely moments of passion ~ all of which came at the right time in the story, and made the situations and characters believable and relatable.
Excellent, MUST READ, debut novel from an author I hope to see more from and soon.”
Her characters intrigued me, as did their back stories, and upon introduction to them in Pickpocket, I needed to know more. Christa paints a picture with her words that make the reader feel like they are part of the story, experiencing the events right alongside the characters, and feeling what they are feeling ~ good, bad and ugly. She grabbed my interest from the very first page and held it until the very last word.
Christa addresses a tough subject matter in Pickpocket, and does it in such a way that I believe will have all readers wanting to know, “what can we do to put an end to this”. And while this story is very heavy at times, there are also light moments, exciting moments, and definitely moments of passion ~ all of which came at the right time in the story, and made the situations and characters believable and relatable.
Excellent, MUST READ, debut novel from an author I hope to see more from and soon.”
November 28, 2022
Beating the odds.
This book was emotional in parts but also hilarious. I love Amber and Zays relationship. They came BFFs very quickly. Fate stepped in so Collin and Zay could meet and it went on from there to a HEA atleast I'm assuming lol. One tiny little thing tho. When Zay got beat up after being kidnapped she even said she could barely see out of an eye. Her wrist where bloody and bruises all over her body. But it was played to light after being for I think. Especially being half naked. It should of been played put like running over to her and she collapsing from being so beat up. She didn't even go to the Dr. Didn't make sense that wouldn't of happened. Not even with the niece. They would of took them to the Dr. And the lack of emotion even of still alive she witnessed her friend throat cut. That has effects on someone or nightmares. Anyways besides that what a great book. It was so good and can't wait to read Amber's story.
This book was emotional in parts but also hilarious. I love Amber and Zays relationship. They came BFFs very quickly. Fate stepped in so Collin and Zay could meet and it went on from there to a HEA atleast I'm assuming lol. One tiny little thing tho. When Zay got beat up after being kidnapped she even said she could barely see out of an eye. Her wrist where bloody and bruises all over her body. But it was played to light after being for I think. Especially being half naked. It should of been played put like running over to her and she collapsing from being so beat up. She didn't even go to the Dr. Didn't make sense that wouldn't of happened. Not even with the niece. They would of took them to the Dr. And the lack of emotion even of still alive she witnessed her friend throat cut. That has effects on someone or nightmares. Anyways besides that what a great book. It was so good and can't wait to read Amber's story.
June 16, 2019
For the underlying tone of the story, there were plenty of times I smiled or even laughed out loud! The new to everyone author has a cute way with words and throwing in little zingers! Enjoyable characters, causing visualization in the readers mind. Great way to address a serious problem in our country. It is my wish that this book could be written again, in a sweeter version, to be distributed to young teens, so they could have a better understanding of a threat to them and why their parents, grandparents, guardians seem over protective causing responses like, "you never let me do anything. I can make my own decisions." Looking forward to more from this young author!
April 14, 2020
Wow!!!!! Christa DeClue knocked It out of the park with her debut novel, Pickpocket. Best debut novel I have ever read, everyone should be grabbing this book!!
From the first pages your drawn into the world of Zayda and Collin and oh what a world it is. Christa takes you on a emotional roller coaster, that leaves you on the edge of your seat. This book has everything, all the feels, angst, emotions and even a dash of humour. All wrapped in suspense.
The book flows so well, that you get lost within in the pages and don't want to come out.
I am hooked and can't wait to dive into Wannabe next..
Christa is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
From the first pages your drawn into the world of Zayda and Collin and oh what a world it is. Christa takes you on a emotional roller coaster, that leaves you on the edge of your seat. This book has everything, all the feels, angst, emotions and even a dash of humour. All wrapped in suspense.
The book flows so well, that you get lost within in the pages and don't want to come out.
I am hooked and can't wait to dive into Wannabe next..
Christa is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
May 30, 2020
This is a debut from this author, and I will certainly be looking out for her work in the future. Zaydra is on the run and survives by any means necessary. Collin is ex-forces and is determined to find his niece who has been kidnapped. This is a well written story which is an intricate tail which is realistic and with broken and flawed characters, and has angst, suspense, humour, and is an emotional roller coaster ride throughout. I was intrigued and hooked from the beginning and cannot wait to read #2 in this series.
January 24, 2021
Not very well written
I'm curious about the multitude of excellent reviews. This book was not well written. It was choppy. Some scenes seemed forced when they could have flowed organically. The confessions of the mc's when just two days into their relationship? Did not work. The 5-6 orgasms the female MC has when commanded during their very first sexual encounter? No. So much of the story just didn't work, didn't flow, didn't come off as sincere or plausible in any way. 2.5 stars feels generous, but the editing was decent.
I'm curious about the multitude of excellent reviews. This book was not well written. It was choppy. Some scenes seemed forced when they could have flowed organically. The confessions of the mc's when just two days into their relationship? Did not work. The 5-6 orgasms the female MC has when commanded during their very first sexual encounter? No. So much of the story just didn't work, didn't flow, didn't come off as sincere or plausible in any way. 2.5 stars feels generous, but the editing was decent.
June 15, 2019
Love finding new authors and this one is debuting her first release with Pickpocket: An Against the Odds Novel. It had me from the first page, it kept me well intrigued. The characters were well written, while giving the perfect amount of background and leading into what she wanted the reader to identify with. So glad I was given the opportunity to read Christa DeClue, I am rooting for her and hope that everyone will do her the honors of reading this debut novel.
May 1, 2020
5*
Zaydra spies Collin & does the bump and run with his wallet.
Unfortunately she picked the wrong mark.
Collin is desperate when he finds his wallet gone, money isn't the issue it's the paper he has inside that's relevant.
Zaydra hope is to reach a bargain with him but will he accept it?
This book was amazing I loved the characters you know the saying when I grow up to be like? well Zaydra is it.
A new author for myself and I have already downloaded "Wannabe"
Fabulous debut novel
Zaydra spies Collin & does the bump and run with his wallet.
Unfortunately she picked the wrong mark.
Collin is desperate when he finds his wallet gone, money isn't the issue it's the paper he has inside that's relevant.
Zaydra hope is to reach a bargain with him but will he accept it?
This book was amazing I loved the characters you know the saying when I grow up to be like? well Zaydra is it.
A new author for myself and I have already downloaded "Wannabe"
Fabulous debut novel
June 15, 2019
I received an ARC for a review. All I can say is that this is a fabulous debut novel! The pickpocket concept is so clever and how it weaves through the story is more than I expected! Christa DeClue should be very proud of her work! I would recommend this as a good book to get lost in this summer. Interesting from start to finish! I am a fan!!
June 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were strong and the storyline was amazing! I loved Zaydra’s snarky, yet vulnerable personality paired with Collin’s no-nonsense, strong and caring one. Zaydra and Collins love story was truly a joy to watch grow. I also love how she brought a very real problem in our society, to life. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series!
April 15, 2020
This author is new to me and I really enjoyed this book. The characters take you on an emotional roller coaster ride that will leave you whirling. Zaydra and Collin’s story is suspenseful, steamy, and sexy. Zaydra is sassy, brass and a good match for Collin. Looking forward to the next book. I received a copy of this book.
May 30, 2020
I started this book today and finished it in one go! Could not put it down! With the subject matter of this book, I did not expect to laugh so much but I found Amber hilarious!! There’s a lot of dark subjects touched in this book but it’s done tastefully and helps to understand “Auntie Z” better.
My first book by this author but definitely not the last! Fantastic book!
My first book by this author but definitely not the last! Fantastic book!
June 14, 2020
AMAZING
Zaydra and Collin take you on a gut wrenching, action packed, emotional, edge of your seat read that has a few laughs along the way. This book pulled me right from the start and had my heart breaking, tears in my eyes and had my heart racing from beginning to end I couldn't put it down. A five plus star read and can't wait to read the next.
Zaydra and Collin take you on a gut wrenching, action packed, emotional, edge of your seat read that has a few laughs along the way. This book pulled me right from the start and had my heart breaking, tears in my eyes and had my heart racing from beginning to end I couldn't put it down. A five plus star read and can't wait to read the next.
January 24, 2021
This was a quick read. I really enjoyed it, especially Amber the failed hooker. She gave the book the humor needed to lighten up the seriousness of the things going on. I hope Amber gets her own book someday. Zaydra was such an admirable and strong person and I am so happy she got the HEA she deserved.
February 6, 2022
Perfect!
I don't usually take the time to write a review. This book was really good! Excitement and suspense with great characters. I'm shocked that this was the first book this author has written. This is not a series with annoying cliff hangers. It looks like the next book is a spin-off about one of the secondary characters. Perfect!
I don't usually take the time to write a review. This book was really good! Excitement and suspense with great characters. I'm shocked that this was the first book this author has written. This is not a series with annoying cliff hangers. It looks like the next book is a spin-off about one of the secondary characters. Perfect!
August 24, 2019
This first novel was a wonderful romp through a suspenseful , funny, sexy, well written freshmen novel by a great young author. The plot was well thought out and carried me through with no slow spots. I look forward to more from Ms. Declue!!
Viva Zaydra !!
Viva Zaydra !!
April 10, 2020
A new author to me and I have to say I loved the book. It was written well and kept me entertained the whole way though. The story was good and flowed really well, I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews