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Cobra Elite #4
Hard Edge
Gabriela Marquez came to her parents’ homeland of Venezuela to help its people. Working undercover for the CIA as Sister María, a Franciscan nun, she spends long days at the mission, giving food to the poor, helping the sick—and keeping a close watch on local drug trafficking. When a violent raid makes her a hostage together with two American journalists, she finds herself the prisoner of the very cartel she’s been spying on. Fortunately for the journalists—but not so luckily for her captors—Sister María is not what she seems to be. Hiding behind her nun’s habit, Gabriela puts her training to use to ensure the hostages’ survival.
Dylan Cruz spent the better part of a decade with Seal Team Six, ridding the world of scum. Now an operative with Cobra International Security, he’s sent to Venezuela with a small team to gather intel for a hostage rescue. Against all expectations, he gets valuable information from one of the hostages—a beautiful young nun. Sister María of the Gorgeous Brown Eyes puts R-rated thoughts in his mind, thoughts he has no business thinking. Then again, he always figured he’d end up in hell.
When the rescue fails, Dylan finds himself trapped in hostile territory with lovely Sister María. Together, they go underground to reach the Colombian border, but Sister María is full of secrets—and enticing surprises. Beneath that shapeless, gray habit is a woman whose abilities—and passions—are a match for Dylan’s. As the desire between them ignites, what should have been a straightforward mission of evade-and-escape turns into a fight for survival against a murderous cartel boss who wants them both dead.
Dylan Cruz spent the better part of a decade with Seal Team Six, ridding the world of scum. Now an operative with Cobra International Security, he’s sent to Venezuela with a small team to gather intel for a hostage rescue. Against all expectations, he gets valuable information from one of the hostages—a beautiful young nun. Sister María of the Gorgeous Brown Eyes puts R-rated thoughts in his mind, thoughts he has no business thinking. Then again, he always figured he’d end up in hell.
When the rescue fails, Dylan finds himself trapped in hostile territory with lovely Sister María. Together, they go underground to reach the Colombian border, but Sister María is full of secrets—and enticing surprises. Beneath that shapeless, gray habit is a woman whose abilities—and passions—are a match for Dylan’s. As the desire between them ignites, what should have been a straightforward mission of evade-and-escape turns into a fight for survival against a murderous cartel boss who wants them both dead.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2020
About the author
Pamela Clare
56 books4,322 followersUSA Today best-selling author Pamela Clare began her writing career as a columnist and investigative reporter and eventually became the first woman editor-in-chief of two different newspapers. Along the way, she and her team won numerous state and national honors, including the First Amendment Award and the National Journalism Award for Public Service. In 2011, she was honored by the Colorado Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists with their Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award for her work. A single mother with two grown sons and two cats, she writes historical romance and contemporary romantic suspense within view of Colorado’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. She is a two-time RITA finalist (Surrender, Defiant) and a three-time Daphne du Maurier finalist (I-Team series). She loves history, having studied archaeology in college, and has traveled extensively, living for almost three years in Denmark, which feels like home to her. She attributes her love of historical romance with the years she spent visiting ruins and castles in Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
June 8, 2020
Gabriel Márquez is a CIA agent, undercover as a Franciscan nun in Venezuela, her family’s home country. She’s been there for a year, administering to the poor while attempting to get evidence of corruption by the current president who is tied to the Andes Cartel, along with the priest who heads the Mission. Things go terribly wrong when two US journalists visiting the mission are violently abducted along with “Sister Maria.” Cobra International Solutions is hired to extract them as current relations between the US and Venezuela won’t allow a military operation. Dylan Cruz is part of the team assigned to the mission and establishes contact with the beautiful nun. With her help, the team is able to plot an informed operation to free the hostages but Dylan and Gabriel find themselves separated and on the run in an unfriendly country.
One of the things I’m enjoying about this series is the international flavor. The settings are mostly locales I’ve never visited and some never heard of before. Of course I’m aware of Venezuela but it was vividly created here, from the internal political situation to its people and culture. It was just as fascinating as the characters and plot. The real surprise here though was Gabriel, a resourceful and skilled operative that was just as critical to the team’s success as their members. Skilled in human intelligence, she could read people and situations almost flawlessly and was equally adept at shifting to meet the new challenges. I really liked Dylan with his multicultural background and flirty nature but Gabriel brought the excitement.
Speaking of excitement, this was one thrill after another as Dylan and Gabriel make their way from San Antonio de Los Altos to safety, which was fraught with danger as both the cartel and government were searching for them. There was just as much romantic heat between the two of them once Dylan discovered he wasn’t rescuing a nun. I loved this story, even when some elements required a bit of belief suspension, which I was happy to do because it worked so well. Winsome and admirable characters, high octane thrills and steamy romance made this an extremely satisfying and enjoyable story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
One of the things I’m enjoying about this series is the international flavor. The settings are mostly locales I’ve never visited and some never heard of before. Of course I’m aware of Venezuela but it was vividly created here, from the internal political situation to its people and culture. It was just as fascinating as the characters and plot. The real surprise here though was Gabriel, a resourceful and skilled operative that was just as critical to the team’s success as their members. Skilled in human intelligence, she could read people and situations almost flawlessly and was equally adept at shifting to meet the new challenges. I really liked Dylan with his multicultural background and flirty nature but Gabriel brought the excitement.
Speaking of excitement, this was one thrill after another as Dylan and Gabriel make their way from San Antonio de Los Altos to safety, which was fraught with danger as both the cartel and government were searching for them. There was just as much romantic heat between the two of them once Dylan discovered he wasn’t rescuing a nun. I loved this story, even when some elements required a bit of belief suspension, which I was happy to do because it worked so well. Winsome and admirable characters, high octane thrills and steamy romance made this an extremely satisfying and enjoyable story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
August 31, 2020
Another great read from Pamela Clare. This book is the 4th in the Cobra Elite series and my favorite so far. I loved Dylan and Gabriela together. They made quite a team. I would highly recommend this book to romantic suspense fans who like their books very spicy!
February 11, 2021
Increible. Hard Edge fue una historia increible, me gusto especialmente la personalidad de la protagonista femenina, es muy fuerte, valiente y honesta, creo que realmente ella logra destacar un poco mas que Dylan, no porque el sea un personaje superficial o menos valido, sino debido a que su caracter no brilla tanto como el de Gabriela, ademas de estar un poco mas visto.
La trama al igual que siempre ocurre con Pamela Clare es adictiva, con un ritmo trepidante y unas escenas de accion que nada tienen que envidiar a las peliculas de accion y supervivencia, y precisamente ese aspecto es uno de mis favoritos del trabajo de la autora, me encanta como consigue hacerte sentir la tension que se respira en lo que sucede en la novela.
Por ponerle un pequeño pero, me hubiese gustado que la parte sentimental hubiese sido un poco mas desarrollada, no es que la historia de amor resulte falsa o irreal, simplemente se me hicieron muy breves sus momentos romanticos, por decirlo de alguna manera.
En conclusion, Hard Edge es el libro perfecto para las amantes de los romances con un poco de suspense. A mi personalmente, me parecio una lectura apasionante, ademas de estar escrita con un cuidado y toque unico que tan bien caracteriza a la escritora.
Definitivamente, Pamela Clare es una de las reinas del suspense romantico.
3.75 Estrellas!!
February 8, 2025
Hard Edge starts off in Venezuela with a dramatic kidnapping of journalists and the nun who tries to stop it. This sets the stage of a pretty much non-stop ride of danger, suspense, and tension capped off with an equally fast-paced romance. Maria/Gabriela (h) is exactly the kind of romance heroine I adore reading because she’s resourceful, intelligent, caring, and has an internal moral code that shines through all that she does. Dylan (H) is also a strong character, but he isn’t quite to Gabriela’s level, she just shined so brightly. He’s also dealing with some past hurts and has deep-seated trust issues. He’s still an exceptional agent who can more than hold his own on the rescue mission that he’s given and he quickly appreciates all that Gabriela is and does, becoming very protective of her. This isn’t a traditional damsel in distress story however and Gabriela’s role comes through in huge ways several times.
Written in third person, mulit-POV (including one of the villain’s). No ow/om drama and both are experienced (it had been a long time for the h considering she was living in a convent; the H has had ONS following the ending of a serious relationship).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Setting in a foreign country
☆ Truly evil bad guys
☆ On page kidnapping and violence
☆ Secretly badass FMC
☆ Alone in enemy territory
I enjoyed Gabriela and Dylan’s introduction and their flight towards hopeful rescue and survival. This one was a page turner for sure and even though you know that you’re cruising towards a HEA eventually, the author also didn’t pull punches in places (literally). The premise of a nun with secrets and more happening behind the scenes was such a neat one. I did feel like Dylan shouldn’t have reacted quite the way he did when he learned those secrets, but given his background, it also made sense.
Romance-wise, everything happens so quickly and I have read another of this author’s books where I felt she pulled this off a little better, but high adrenaline and forced proximity, plus moments of vulnerability could certainly lead to some fast falls into love. The physical intimacy moments are steamy and well-written and do start because of the attraction they’re feeling prior to knowing each other better. Dylan takes a bit longer than Gabriela does to open up, though he does get there.
The last part of the book and climax are crazy with some moments that I think could only happen in fiction, but then were super entertaining. This is a romance book at the end of the day so they do get to safety and quickly figure out how to be in each other’s lives permanently. Overall I had a fantastic time with this read and these characters. I’m still exploring this author’s backlist and hoping for more with heroines like this one.
Written in third person, mulit-POV (including one of the villain’s). No ow/om drama and both are experienced (it had been a long time for the h considering she was living in a convent; the H has had ONS following the ending of a serious relationship).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Setting in a foreign country
☆ Truly evil bad guys
☆ On page kidnapping and violence
☆ Secretly badass FMC
☆ Alone in enemy territory
I enjoyed Gabriela and Dylan’s introduction and their flight towards hopeful rescue and survival. This one was a page turner for sure and even though you know that you’re cruising towards a HEA eventually, the author also didn’t pull punches in places (literally). The premise of a nun with secrets and more happening behind the scenes was such a neat one. I did feel like Dylan shouldn’t have reacted quite the way he did when he learned those secrets, but given his background, it also made sense.
Romance-wise, everything happens so quickly and I have read another of this author’s books where I felt she pulled this off a little better, but high adrenaline and forced proximity, plus moments of vulnerability could certainly lead to some fast falls into love. The physical intimacy moments are steamy and well-written and do start because of the attraction they’re feeling prior to knowing each other better. Dylan takes a bit longer than Gabriela does to open up, though he does get there.
The last part of the book and climax are crazy with some moments that I think could only happen in fiction, but then were super entertaining. This is a romance book at the end of the day so they do get to safety and quickly figure out how to be in each other’s lives permanently. Overall I had a fantastic time with this read and these characters. I’m still exploring this author’s backlist and hoping for more with heroines like this one.
May 3, 2020
I absolutely love a heroine who can kick some serious butt. While Gabriela is young and newish to her job, I loved how brave, calm and steady she was in the face of danger. I am so happy the author gave her more of a role in the danger scenes as well. I wanted to see her in action and I got that.
Gabriela being tough did not take away from Dylan being just as tough. I enjoyed seeing how Dylan and his team worked together to stakeout and rescue. I thought the author did a great job of making that an exciting part of the story.
I thought Gabriela and Dylan were a great match. I didn't particularly like their first intimacy together only because it felt a bit cold. Dylan has betrayal in his past and that worked heavily in his approach to his interest in Gabriela. It did make sense to his character.
Each book has the same vibe with exciting plots while still being unique to themselves. I don't feel like I am reading the same book over and over. I'm really enjoying this whole series and hope there are many more to come.
Gabriela being tough did not take away from Dylan being just as tough. I enjoyed seeing how Dylan and his team worked together to stakeout and rescue. I thought the author did a great job of making that an exciting part of the story.
I thought Gabriela and Dylan were a great match. I didn't particularly like their first intimacy together only because it felt a bit cold. Dylan has betrayal in his past and that worked heavily in his approach to his interest in Gabriela. It did make sense to his character.
Each book has the same vibe with exciting plots while still being unique to themselves. I don't feel like I am reading the same book over and over. I'm really enjoying this whole series and hope there are many more to come.
June 3, 2020
Pamela Clare’s Cobra series of late has me wavering between feeling half-hearted about some books; I find that they do sometimes lack something more cutting or hard-hitting than her I-Team series in some ways, but ‘Hard Edge’ was one that was easy to get sucked into. The set-up is typical RS with action-packed, linearly-written scenes that are engaging enough so that the pages by pass quickly—as Cobra operatives go about their shady business doing the ‘unsanctioned’ works of the government while finding their HEA along the way.
In ‘Hard Edge’, having an undercover CIA officer posing as a nun in a longterm assignment when it all goes belly-up with a hostage situation sounds like a woman in need of a rescue, pronto.
Quite the contrary, really, since Cobra’s rescue mission is what kicks ‘Hard Edge’ off but Gabriela Marquez is no ordinary nun and officer, who can probably get herself and everyone involved else out of the deep end with her quick-thinking smarts and wits. But Cobra steps into the fray and compromises her deep cover, even as she and Cobra operative Dylan Cruz discover an attraction that they can’t ignore.
As a pairing, Gabriela/Dylan do work well together—their sex scenes did seem somewhat out of place though and perhaps too soon after he discovers she isn’t a nun—and their attraction believable with a hint of instalove forged through heightened, shared experiences. I cringed when it came to the condom talk in this case—something about the celibacy bit and its implications that rubbed me the wrong way a bit.
But what I liked so much about ‘Hard Edge’ can probably be summed up in a name: Gabriela, my new RS girl crush of the month, so amazingly strong, calm and capable that she near eclipses Dylan. Here’s no damsel in distress, nor is she an accessory as the male protagonist plots and plans while they’re on the run and one who is—perhaps most importantly as well—emotionally brave enough to put herself out there in every way as Dylan shrinks and cowers from a bad experience that he has allowed to rule his private life. ‘Hard Edge’ for me, was really Gabriela’s show and having a very likeable female protagonist who’s at the forefront of the action was simply a soothing tune to my jaded self and perhaps, a triumph for the female romance reader who has always wanted such heroines to jump off the page.
In ‘Hard Edge’, having an undercover CIA officer posing as a nun in a longterm assignment when it all goes belly-up with a hostage situation sounds like a woman in need of a rescue, pronto.
Quite the contrary, really, since Cobra’s rescue mission is what kicks ‘Hard Edge’ off but Gabriela Marquez is no ordinary nun and officer, who can probably get herself and everyone involved else out of the deep end with her quick-thinking smarts and wits. But Cobra steps into the fray and compromises her deep cover, even as she and Cobra operative Dylan Cruz discover an attraction that they can’t ignore.
As a pairing, Gabriela/Dylan do work well together—their sex scenes did seem somewhat out of place though and perhaps too soon after he discovers she isn’t a nun—and their attraction believable with a hint of instalove forged through heightened, shared experiences. I cringed when it came to the condom talk in this case—something about the celibacy bit and its implications that rubbed me the wrong way a bit.
But what I liked so much about ‘Hard Edge’ can probably be summed up in a name: Gabriela, my new RS girl crush of the month, so amazingly strong, calm and capable that she near eclipses Dylan. Here’s no damsel in distress, nor is she an accessory as the male protagonist plots and plans while they’re on the run and one who is—perhaps most importantly as well—emotionally brave enough to put herself out there in every way as Dylan shrinks and cowers from a bad experience that he has allowed to rule his private life. ‘Hard Edge’ for me, was really Gabriela’s show and having a very likeable female protagonist who’s at the forefront of the action was simply a soothing tune to my jaded self and perhaps, a triumph for the female romance reader who has always wanted such heroines to jump off the page.
May 12, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher in exchange for an fair and honest review.
If, like me, you're bored with television - even with hundreds of channels, can't walk another mile and are having withdrawal from not being able to go shopping or out with friends, then you need a book and not just any book. You need a pulse pounding, seat of your pants action, adventure, romantic suspense book. And, lucky you, I have just what your need. "Hard Edge" is all that and so much more. Pamela Clare is a master at this genre and no one does it better. So, if you are in need of escape from everyone and everything this is the book for you.
Sister Maria Catalina is in Venezuela at a poor mission doing her best to help feed and care for the people there, and, to keep a sharp eye on the drug trafficking in the area. Her "real" boss is actually the CIA and Gabriela Marquez is as passionate about her secret mission as she is about her cover mission. When two American journalists are about to be kidnapped she doesn't hesitate to defend them and gets taken too. Now she has to find a way get them all rescued.
Former Navy SEAL, Dylan Cruz, is now an operative with Cobra International Security and has been tasked with the rescue of Sister Maria and the journalists. He and his team are way, way undercover in this op and are amazed when the beautiful sister supplies them with the intel necessary to pull off the extraction. Then it all goes FUBAR when Sister Maria and Dylan are separated from the others an miss their helo ride out.
Being on the run with a beautiful woman is not what Dylan had in mind and the "nun" is causing havoc in his mind, and other body parts. He is going to hell, for sure. When Gabriela is forced to revel her expert training and real identity, Dylan is not sure he can trust her, but their survival is dependent on that. Evade and escape and hot, passionate nights cause them to depend on each other and even kill for each other.
If, like me, you're bored with television - even with hundreds of channels, can't walk another mile and are having withdrawal from not being able to go shopping or out with friends, then you need a book and not just any book. You need a pulse pounding, seat of your pants action, adventure, romantic suspense book. And, lucky you, I have just what your need. "Hard Edge" is all that and so much more. Pamela Clare is a master at this genre and no one does it better. So, if you are in need of escape from everyone and everything this is the book for you.
Sister Maria Catalina is in Venezuela at a poor mission doing her best to help feed and care for the people there, and, to keep a sharp eye on the drug trafficking in the area. Her "real" boss is actually the CIA and Gabriela Marquez is as passionate about her secret mission as she is about her cover mission. When two American journalists are about to be kidnapped she doesn't hesitate to defend them and gets taken too. Now she has to find a way get them all rescued.
Former Navy SEAL, Dylan Cruz, is now an operative with Cobra International Security and has been tasked with the rescue of Sister Maria and the journalists. He and his team are way, way undercover in this op and are amazed when the beautiful sister supplies them with the intel necessary to pull off the extraction. Then it all goes FUBAR when Sister Maria and Dylan are separated from the others an miss their helo ride out.
Being on the run with a beautiful woman is not what Dylan had in mind and the "nun" is causing havoc in his mind, and other body parts. He is going to hell, for sure. When Gabriela is forced to revel her expert training and real identity, Dylan is not sure he can trust her, but their survival is dependent on that. Evade and escape and hot, passionate nights cause them to depend on each other and even kill for each other.
May 2, 2020
ARC received for review
4.5 starts
Another great Cobra Elite novel. I think Dylan fell in love with her from just looking at her picture. Gabriela was a serious bad arse woman. She helps the Cobra team rescue the hostages while putting herself in harms way again and again. There are lots of near misses on the way out of the country, plus lots of hot sex. Can't wait to see who falls next.
4.5 starts
Another great Cobra Elite novel. I think Dylan fell in love with her from just looking at her picture. Gabriela was a serious bad arse woman. She helps the Cobra team rescue the hostages while putting herself in harms way again and again. There are lots of near misses on the way out of the country, plus lots of hot sex. Can't wait to see who falls next.
May 1, 2020
Another strong entry in this series. This one focuses on one couple and their challenges, the rest of the team is mostly absent, except for technical support. There is a small amount of angst related to their pasts, but an honest development between them. The thrilling parts were intense - PC doesn't hide from the pain. Lots of obstacles to overcome, but all were believable. The resolve was a bit too easy, but it was where the story needed to go.
May 9, 2020
With her latest story, Pamela Clare delivers a hooking tale presented to readers on electrifying roller coaster ride with big side of steamy sexiness.
Gabriela Marquez’s first solo mission as a CIA operative was working as an undercover nun in Venezuela. Her objective was to get proof that a political person of interest from Venezuela had strong ties with the biggest Colombian drug cartel. But when a raid threatens to take two US journalists hostage she hopelessly tries to intervene make herself a hostage as well. Can she maintain her cover, finish her assignment and help get the hostages free?
Ex-Navy SEAL Dylan Cruz is no stranger to dangerous situations. Being sent to appraise a hostage situation in a foreign country should be a walk in the park especially when the gorgeous nun keeps giving them actionable intel.
When the rescue goes sideways though, and he finds himself stuck in enemy territory alongside the tempting Sister, they must work together to cross the Columbian border. As their situation gets more dangerous by the minute and Gabriela is allowed to reveal herself, the attraction between them burns with hot with desire, but can they avoid getting caught by the man who wants them dead?
Gabriela was a kickass heroine. She’s incredibly brave, smart and cool while facing the barrel of a gun and was the perfect match for Dylan who is tough and protective.
The suspense is nerve-wracking and the romance is scorching hot, which is why I love going back to the Cobra Elite group again and again. Pamela Clare expertly balances the tempting chemistry and romance with the escalating danger full of action. While Gabriela and Dylan try to evade murderous criminals in hostile territory, they also provocatively explore their desire. Once I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down.
Hard Edge is book #4 of the Cobra Elite series by author Pamela Clare. It’s written from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2yyq8gZ
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
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“You are the best mission I’ve ever had.”
Gabriela Marquez’s first solo mission as a CIA operative was working as an undercover nun in Venezuela. Her objective was to get proof that a political person of interest from Venezuela had strong ties with the biggest Colombian drug cartel. But when a raid threatens to take two US journalists hostage she hopelessly tries to intervene make herself a hostage as well. Can she maintain her cover, finish her assignment and help get the hostages free?
“Hostage. A drug cartel. Corrupt government and military officials. Dylan has been right. This assignment was going to be interesting – and dangerous.”
Ex-Navy SEAL Dylan Cruz is no stranger to dangerous situations. Being sent to appraise a hostage situation in a foreign country should be a walk in the park especially when the gorgeous nun keeps giving them actionable intel.
When the rescue goes sideways though, and he finds himself stuck in enemy territory alongside the tempting Sister, they must work together to cross the Columbian border. As their situation gets more dangerous by the minute and Gabriela is allowed to reveal herself, the attraction between them burns with hot with desire, but can they avoid getting caught by the man who wants them dead?
Gabriela was a kickass heroine. She’s incredibly brave, smart and cool while facing the barrel of a gun and was the perfect match for Dylan who is tough and protective.
“How am I going to pass the time stuck in this room for another day or two with a cocky SEAL?”
“I have no idea. I’m stuck with a spay.” He chuckled, flipped her onto her back, and pinned her arms over her head.
The suspense is nerve-wracking and the romance is scorching hot, which is why I love going back to the Cobra Elite group again and again. Pamela Clare expertly balances the tempting chemistry and romance with the escalating danger full of action. While Gabriela and Dylan try to evade murderous criminals in hostile territory, they also provocatively explore their desire. Once I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down.
Hard Edge is book #4 of the Cobra Elite series by author Pamela Clare. It’s written from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2yyq8gZ
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
April 28, 2020
What do you get when you put a undercover nun and a Navy Seal together? Its a Pamela Clare book – so you for sure get action, suspense, edge of your seat thrills along with a hot romance. Each book also takes us to a new country and this time the hotbed of danger is in Venezuela. Its a page turner from beginning to end..
May 18, 2020
I liked it better than some other recent offerings from this author. The action was believable and the characters were nice. I do like a pretending to be a nun story.
April 30, 2020
A badass undercover agent who pretends to be a nun who saves the hero's life and vice versa, runs away from bad guys, still likes to pray and have hot sex when not undercover as a nun- what a terrific book, lol!
May 21, 2020
HARD EDGE is book four in the Cobra Elite series by Pamela Clare. I’ve enjoyed Clare’s books in the past, but this new series is still warming up to me. I’m not sure if it’s because of the characters or if it’s because I’ve read more Romantic Suspense since I’ve read Clare’s I-team series, but I don’t feel like these books hit as hard as her other books have for me.
This book features Gabriela Marquez who is working undercover as sister Maria, a Franciscan nun. When she is taken as a hostage, that’s when the real action begins. Honestly, I never really warmed up to the heroine that much in this book. I’m really not sure why since she is obviously strong and intelligent, but something about her personality didn’t click with me. As a result, I couldn’t sympathize with her emotions as well as I have with past Clare heroines.
The same can be said for the hero, Dylan. Although he had all the aspects of a great hero there, something felt like it was missing from this book. It was missing a spark. So while I enjoyed the attention to detail, I wished that the romance was more focused on because I think I would have enjoyed this book a lot more.
While I enjoy Clare’s style of writing, this book didn’t quite meet my expectations. However, I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
March 19, 2023
Hard Edge
3 Stars
Posing as a Franciscan nun, CIA agent Gabriela Marquez is assigned to track the activities of a local drug lord associated with Venezuela's corrupt president. But when she is taken hostage along with two American journalists, Gabriela makes good use of her training to assist the team sent to rescue them. As part of the Cobra International Security team, Dylan Cruz, a former Navy SEAL, is impressed by the young nun's intel. When the rescue mission goes awry, he is even more surprised to find himself on the run with a woman whose skills and passions match his own.
Series note: This is book #4 in the series. While each book focuses on a different couple and storyline, there are references to characters and events from previous books. Nevertheless, they can be read as stand alones.
Once again, Clare focuses her narrative on a part of the world that is beset with tragedy. In this case, it is Venezuela, whose people are struggling to survive in the wake of a devastating economic crisis and the consequences of corrupt leadership. While this setting is compelling, Clare fails to completely harness its potential, and the narrative is little more than a "couple-on-the-run" plot, similar to book #2 but set in the urban environs of Venezuela rather than the jungles of Myanmar. Consequently, there is a definite "been there, done that" vibe to the action.
Unfortunately, Gabi and Dylan's romance is contrived and lacks originality. Their characters are carbon copies of similar couples thrown together in life-threatening circumstances who give in to their attraction. Their relationship is based solely on sex, without any real sensual or emotional connection. Moreover, the descriptions are mechanical, and the language used is rather harsh and jarring.
Perhaps it is my preference for mystery-type romantic suspense, like Elizabeth and Quinn's book (which I absolutely loved) rather than the covert operative theme, but the books in this series are not completely resonating.
3 Stars
Posing as a Franciscan nun, CIA agent Gabriela Marquez is assigned to track the activities of a local drug lord associated with Venezuela's corrupt president. But when she is taken hostage along with two American journalists, Gabriela makes good use of her training to assist the team sent to rescue them. As part of the Cobra International Security team, Dylan Cruz, a former Navy SEAL, is impressed by the young nun's intel. When the rescue mission goes awry, he is even more surprised to find himself on the run with a woman whose skills and passions match his own.
Series note: This is book #4 in the series. While each book focuses on a different couple and storyline, there are references to characters and events from previous books. Nevertheless, they can be read as stand alones.
Once again, Clare focuses her narrative on a part of the world that is beset with tragedy. In this case, it is Venezuela, whose people are struggling to survive in the wake of a devastating economic crisis and the consequences of corrupt leadership. While this setting is compelling, Clare fails to completely harness its potential, and the narrative is little more than a "couple-on-the-run" plot, similar to book #2 but set in the urban environs of Venezuela rather than the jungles of Myanmar. Consequently, there is a definite "been there, done that" vibe to the action.
Unfortunately, Gabi and Dylan's romance is contrived and lacks originality. Their characters are carbon copies of similar couples thrown together in life-threatening circumstances who give in to their attraction. Their relationship is based solely on sex, without any real sensual or emotional connection. Moreover, the descriptions are mechanical, and the language used is rather harsh and jarring.
Perhaps it is my preference for mystery-type romantic suspense, like Elizabeth and Quinn's book (which I absolutely loved) rather than the covert operative theme, but the books in this series are not completely resonating.
May 5, 2020
I love this author's kick arse heroines. Sister Maria was not what she seemed as Dylan would soon find out.
I was glued to this book and couldn't wait for each chapter to continue the story. Plenty of action and heartstopping moments.
I also learned various Spanish swearwords lol.
Great plot and wonderful characters, I highly recommend this book.
I was glued to this book and couldn't wait for each chapter to continue the story. Plenty of action and heartstopping moments.
I also learned various Spanish swearwords lol.
Great plot and wonderful characters, I highly recommend this book.
June 9, 2020
I have read several books by this author and they rarely disappoint. This was no exception. I enjoyed Hard Edge from the very first page all the way through to the last. It had action, romance, heat and intrigue. The characters really came to life and their interactions were hot and thrilling. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2020
Another solid read by Pamela Clare. I'm rarely disappointed with a book of hers. Actually, I don't think I've ever been disappointed by one of her books.
Fast paced and good read. Didn't enjoy it as much as Liam and Elizabeth's book but still very enjoyable.
Fast paced and good read. Didn't enjoy it as much as Liam and Elizabeth's book but still very enjoyable.
May 6, 2020
When is the last time you've read a book that featured a CIA agent undercover as a nun? I'm guessing never! Once again, Pamela Clare has delivered a fantastic romantic suspense novel in the Cobra series. This book can totally be read as a stand alone. It features two great main characters, one the undercover nun and the other the operative sent in to rescue her. I like that while Gabriella is a woman that can fend for herself, she is not a hard-edged agent. After all she has been posing as a nun for over a year. Nor is Dylan someone unable to ask for help when needed. Together they make a great team as they try to escape the cartels and maybe find love on the way. Just like other books I've read by Pamela Clare, once you start reading, you get sucked into the action and it is difficult to put the book down.
May 26, 2020
This is my favorite book of the series so far! I loved both main characters and their path to falling for each other. Her story and background was unique and interesting. This book focuses a lot on the two of them, so you could definitely jump in here if you haven't read the other books in the series.
June 19, 2020
undercover operation is my thing so of course i’m giving this one a five star. oh, also because it was glorious.
August 3, 2020
What can I say? There’s nothing like picking up a book by one of your favorite authors and getting exactly what you were looking for. I needed something good after a string of 2-3 star books and this one sure delivered.
Hard Edge is the 4th installment in the Cobra Elite series (the I-team spinoff series) but can totally be read as a standalone. Gabriella is an undercover CIA agent posing as a nun in a mission in Venezuela while she spies on a drug cartel. When cartel operatives kidnap two American journalists at the mission, Gabriella tries to intervene, and ultimately gets kidnapped too.
Dylan is a former Navy SEAL and current operative with Cobra, a global security firm, who is sent to Venezuela to rescue Gabriella and the journalists. When the mission fails, Dylan and Gabriella find themselves on the run as they try to reach the Colombian border and remain alive. Naturally, sparks fly between them. Oh and did I mention there’s only one bed?
Pamela Clare delivers her trademark they-really-are-in-deep-shit nail-biting action and sizzling romance. I love romantic suspense novels where the MCs are running for their lives, and I love when the heroine can kick ass much as the hero. I also love that PC never shies away from grave danger and characters getting badly hurt (just ask Gabe or Marc or Julian), but they always have time for romance and somehow it’s all very realistic. Plus her research is incredible!
Can't wait to go back and read the other books in the series.
Hard Edge is the 4th installment in the Cobra Elite series (the I-team spinoff series) but can totally be read as a standalone. Gabriella is an undercover CIA agent posing as a nun in a mission in Venezuela while she spies on a drug cartel. When cartel operatives kidnap two American journalists at the mission, Gabriella tries to intervene, and ultimately gets kidnapped too.
Dylan is a former Navy SEAL and current operative with Cobra, a global security firm, who is sent to Venezuela to rescue Gabriella and the journalists. When the mission fails, Dylan and Gabriella find themselves on the run as they try to reach the Colombian border and remain alive. Naturally, sparks fly between them. Oh and did I mention there’s only one bed?
Pamela Clare delivers her trademark they-really-are-in-deep-shit nail-biting action and sizzling romance. I love romantic suspense novels where the MCs are running for their lives, and I love when the heroine can kick ass much as the hero. I also love that PC never shies away from grave danger and characters getting badly hurt (just ask Gabe or Marc or Julian), but they always have time for romance and somehow it’s all very realistic. Plus her research is incredible!
Can't wait to go back and read the other books in the series.
June 24, 2020
Fast paced action with the expected romantic entanglement. Much better that the last book in this series.
April 28, 2020
Another breathtaking Romantic Suspense book in the Cobra Elite series with Pamela Clare’s signature passion, romance and heart pounding action .
Sister Marie Catalina is working at a mission in Venezuela to provide food and necessities for the poor. She is a young American, her parents were Venezuelan immigrants to Miami. Her birth name was Gabriella Marquez. She is kidnapped by a drug cartel while trying to protect two American journalists. She gets slightly better treatment since she is a nun, but she has a lot of secrets she hasn’t shared.
Cobra International Security is assigned the rescue and move to the scene as quickly as possible. They spend a couple days orienting themselves with the area and plan a rescue. They can’t believe how much Sister Marie has the freedom to actually help them in a few key ways. The journalists are removed in the rescue plan, but one of the drug dealers grabs Sister Marie and plans to kill her. Dylan Cruz, Cobra operator was not going to let that happen. The delay has caused them to miss the flight to take them out of the danger area, so they are left to escape on their own. They face drug cartels, and corrupt government officials, with no help except Dylan’s training, and Sister Marie’s knowledge of the language and the area. Dylan’s is amazed at her strength, her flexibility to every danger and risk that comes at them. Who is this nun?!
The story is tight, it’s great to see the Cobra operatives, and the action will have you on the edge of your seat. The romance is slow growing and it sizzles. Another book to add to my shelf of Pamela Clare favorites!
Pat Fordyce
August 25, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🔥
+18 (lenguaje y contenido explícito)
Lo que me gustó de este libro fue la trama. Tenía tiempo que quería leer algo así; es decir, algo relacionado con Fuerzas Especiales, CIA y así. Y la premisa de esta novela me gustó, se me hizo original, pero…
Lo que me quedó a deber fue el romance. Lo sentí un instalove y eso no me gusta! Todo pasó muy rápido, no sentí que se desarrolló bien ese aspecto, pero seguí leyendo por el drama.
A Gabriela, la protagonista, le rezo, definitivamente!
Y Dylan… Algo me faltó para enamorarme de él. A pesar de que siempre fue muy cute.
Sin duda fue entretenido de leer.
2.5/5 🔥
+18 (lenguaje y contenido explícito)
Lo que me gustó de este libro fue la trama. Tenía tiempo que quería leer algo así; es decir, algo relacionado con Fuerzas Especiales, CIA y así. Y la premisa de esta novela me gustó, se me hizo original, pero…
Lo que me quedó a deber fue el romance. Lo sentí un instalove y eso no me gusta! Todo pasó muy rápido, no sentí que se desarrolló bien ese aspecto, pero seguí leyendo por el drama.
A Gabriela, la protagonista, le rezo, definitivamente!
Y Dylan… Algo me faltó para enamorarme de él. A pesar de que siempre fue muy cute.
Sin duda fue entretenido de leer.
June 28, 2020
Gabriela is in her parent's homeland of Venezuela as an undercover agent investigating drug trafficking by the cartel. Her cover is that of Sister Maria, a nun. A hostage situation occurs and Gabriela's skills help keep her and the two American hostages alive. Dylan is part of a team sent to rescue the hostages. When things go wrong he and Gabriela end up on the run for their lives from the cartel boss. A great story for this series!
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and am leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and am leaving a review.
May 11, 2020
I haven't read a lot of romantic suspense, but this book definitely delivered. I was intrigued from start to finish, and I absolutely love Spanish-speaking countries. The ending felt a bit too quickly resolved for me, but the characters were sweet, the plot was engaging, and I felt satisfied at the end. I'm definitely glad I stumbled upon this book!
And I'm out.
And I'm out.
May 17, 2020
Quite the romance this book turned out to be but definitely not short in the action. A female heroine who is as strong as her male counterpart. This book will take you on a journey that keeps you holding your breath.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2020
Ugh! I hate to say but there were no Hard Edges to this book. In fact there were so many soft edges that I am flabbergasted by how blah Hard Edges was. Ms. Clare does "Getting the heck outta Dodge" better than most and instead there was a lot of hurry up and?... Wait!? Have Sex!? Drive a few cars!? Have more sex!? Oogle one another!?
There are two things this book reminded me of. One is a show called Queen of the South. It was on USA and I loved that show. The pilot for the series was so strong I was all in from the pilot and then the show became a molasses of wash, rinse & repeat stupidity that even I was surprised how she became Queen of a parking lot much less a Cartel. The second thing Hard Edge reminded me of was a Spring Break during college where just a gf and I went to Negril, Jamaica and on night one she met a guy. Slept with said guy and at no time over 6 days could I enter or exit our suite, tour, sleep, bathe, do a water sport, climb a fall, ride a moped, head to Rick's Cafe, eat without her and this random hook up not shoving some part of their anatomies at each other. It was nauseating and exhausting and needless to say the last vacation I took with her.
Hard Edges had such potential because based on what is going on in some South American countries, what Gabi is facing is ripped from the headlines and people are suffering on a mass scale. Enter Dylan, an elite Cobra team member with a bit of baggage who from the second he's given information on the mission, he begins to drool and have his eyes bug out over the beauteous Gabriela who is working undercover as a nun but is secretly an asset for the U.S. Government. The latin lovering (yes I made that word up) was poured on way too thick and imo took away from the start of the book and bogged down much of the book up to the point when they are finally caught by the bad guys. If ever there was a need to delete the hero, the part in the house proves it because Gabriela clearly shows that while she's new to some things in covert work, this girl needs no saving.
Dylan was a weak link to the story and with the exception of an impressive tongue I don't think Ms. Clare used his SeaL background enough and with fervor. I also think the hook up could have occurred after the house scene because it would have been more relevant and relateable.
In no way does this NOT make me a fan and cheerleader of Ms. Clare's books, I read this one in about a day. I do hope though that any other "Hard" books are not given the lovering too early and that the "Get the heck outta Dodge" thing she does so well and uses to great effect returns early to set the tone. Creating tension that propels the story much farther along before the H & H are able to release the tension of being on the run or solving a life or death riddle. And please, Derek Tower can lighten up a bit too.
There are two things this book reminded me of. One is a show called Queen of the South. It was on USA and I loved that show. The pilot for the series was so strong I was all in from the pilot and then the show became a molasses of wash, rinse & repeat stupidity that even I was surprised how she became Queen of a parking lot much less a Cartel. The second thing Hard Edge reminded me of was a Spring Break during college where just a gf and I went to Negril, Jamaica and on night one she met a guy. Slept with said guy and at no time over 6 days could I enter or exit our suite, tour, sleep, bathe, do a water sport, climb a fall, ride a moped, head to Rick's Cafe, eat without her and this random hook up not shoving some part of their anatomies at each other. It was nauseating and exhausting and needless to say the last vacation I took with her.
Hard Edges had such potential because based on what is going on in some South American countries, what Gabi is facing is ripped from the headlines and people are suffering on a mass scale. Enter Dylan, an elite Cobra team member with a bit of baggage who from the second he's given information on the mission, he begins to drool and have his eyes bug out over the beauteous Gabriela who is working undercover as a nun but is secretly an asset for the U.S. Government. The latin lovering (yes I made that word up) was poured on way too thick and imo took away from the start of the book and bogged down much of the book up to the point when they are finally caught by the bad guys. If ever there was a need to delete the hero, the part in the house proves it because Gabriela clearly shows that while she's new to some things in covert work, this girl needs no saving.
Dylan was a weak link to the story and with the exception of an impressive tongue I don't think Ms. Clare used his SeaL background enough and with fervor. I also think the hook up could have occurred after the house scene because it would have been more relevant and relateable.
In no way does this NOT make me a fan and cheerleader of Ms. Clare's books, I read this one in about a day. I do hope though that any other "Hard" books are not given the lovering too early and that the "Get the heck outta Dodge" thing she does so well and uses to great effect returns early to set the tone. Creating tension that propels the story much farther along before the H & H are able to release the tension of being on the run or solving a life or death riddle. And please, Derek Tower can lighten up a bit too.
May 8, 2020
I was completely exhausted by the time I finished this book - and it had nothing to do with staying up until 2AM to finish it. I’m finding that happens whenever I read Pamela Clare because the action is non-stop, pretty much from page one...until done!
CIA agent Gabriela Marquez has spent two years working undercover as a nun, working to take down cartels and a corrupt Venezuelan government. But her intel-gathering operation goes awry when she gets herself kidnapped along with an American journalist and her cameraman.
Cobra International Securities is called in to extract the three hostages. Unfortunately, their intricately planned rescue mission also goes awry and Cobra team member Dylan Cruz gets left behind with “Sister Maria” - who is far too good looking and way more capable at evading capture than he can believe. Their journey to get out of Venezuela and to a safe extraction point is heartstopping, breathtaking, and incredibly steamy!
Of all the romance genres, romantic suspense is my favorite. But it’s also the hardest to please me with - because I want equal parts of romance AND suspense. Ms. Clare has absolutely NAILED IT with this Cobra Elite series. As I said, the action starts on page one and doesn’t let up until the very end. And not only is the romance part plenty of steamy, it’s also pretty believable. I love how Dylan and Gabriela bond over their shared badass-ness, and that even though Dylan has some reservations about getting into a relationship, a couple of honest conversations get his head straightened out. Ms. Clare writes about adults who behave like adults and it’s freaking GREAT.
I love this series, can’t wait to read more, and hope there are a dozen of them!!!
* thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
CIA agent Gabriela Marquez has spent two years working undercover as a nun, working to take down cartels and a corrupt Venezuelan government. But her intel-gathering operation goes awry when she gets herself kidnapped along with an American journalist and her cameraman.
Cobra International Securities is called in to extract the three hostages. Unfortunately, their intricately planned rescue mission also goes awry and Cobra team member Dylan Cruz gets left behind with “Sister Maria” - who is far too good looking and way more capable at evading capture than he can believe. Their journey to get out of Venezuela and to a safe extraction point is heartstopping, breathtaking, and incredibly steamy!
Of all the romance genres, romantic suspense is my favorite. But it’s also the hardest to please me with - because I want equal parts of romance AND suspense. Ms. Clare has absolutely NAILED IT with this Cobra Elite series. As I said, the action starts on page one and doesn’t let up until the very end. And not only is the romance part plenty of steamy, it’s also pretty believable. I love how Dylan and Gabriela bond over their shared badass-ness, and that even though Dylan has some reservations about getting into a relationship, a couple of honest conversations get his head straightened out. Ms. Clare writes about adults who behave like adults and it’s freaking GREAT.
I love this series, can’t wait to read more, and hope there are a dozen of them!!!
* thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
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