What do you think?
Rate this book
Border #1
Zapata
When engineer Avery McAndrews is offered a last-minute assignment to the rough and tumble border town of Zapata, Texas, she doesn’t think twice. Used to pushing past stereotypes, she’s sure this project will earn the long-awaited promotion.
Instead, she’s thrown in the crossfire between warring drug cartels and soon discovers that her captor, Javier Ramos, is more than just a power hungry drug lord. He’s crazy.
As lead attorney for the cartel, it’s Alejandro DeLeon’s job to manage Javier. But this time, Javier’s cruelty reaches epic proportions, and Alejandro finds himself wanting to risk everything to save Avery.
Running for their lives with Mexico’s underworld at their heels, Avery and Alejandro discover unintended and intensifying emotions, feelings neither sought and neither seem prepared to control...
Instead, she’s thrown in the crossfire between warring drug cartels and soon discovers that her captor, Javier Ramos, is more than just a power hungry drug lord. He’s crazy.
As lead attorney for the cartel, it’s Alejandro DeLeon’s job to manage Javier. But this time, Javier’s cruelty reaches epic proportions, and Alejandro finds himself wanting to risk everything to save Avery.
Running for their lives with Mexico’s underworld at their heels, Avery and Alejandro discover unintended and intensifying emotions, feelings neither sought and neither seem prepared to control...
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 21, 2019
5 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Harper McDavid
1 book73 followersAs a child Harper traveled the world with her family, growing up in Virginia, Chennai, India, Singapore, and eventually finishing high school in the Chicago suburbs. Harper received degrees from Baylor University and Texas A&M University in geology and hydrogeology.
Zapata, is Harper's debut novel. The romantic suspense was inspired by a project she had on the border, where the cartels let their presence be known.
Harper lives in the foothills of Colorado with her husband, two dogs, and a fat cat. Her free time is spent traveling the world in search of that next story and perusing her local library for funny book covers.
Zapata, is Harper's debut novel. The romantic suspense was inspired by a project she had on the border, where the cartels let their presence be known.
Harper lives in the foothills of Colorado with her husband, two dogs, and a fat cat. Her free time is spent traveling the world in search of that next story and perusing her local library for funny book covers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 6, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
Gaudy was the second thing that came to mind. First was no way. No way was she spending a night in this room. Her skin itched just looking at it. She shot Alejandro a dirty look in the mirror headboard designed to resemble a Mayan temple. The base of the temple was a collection of greasy imprints from the heads of previous guests. The mattress slumped woefully in the middle. Any more sag and the thing could be mistaken for a canoe.
… she’d been rejected. She hated it. Rejection was agonizing hell. It made legends out of poets and filled psychology textbooks.
My Review:
I’m always astounded when a debut author produces a polished and well-honed tale; color me flabbergasted, as this is one of those times. The storylines were uniquely intriguing, highly eventful, and advanced at an intermittent pace with rather unexpected bursts of activity, gunfire, daring and narrow escapes, cringe-worthy threats, brutal violence, kidnapping, betrayals, a blossoming romance with no future, and considerable subterfuge and duplicity on every level.
I was quickly sucked into Avery’s perilous vortex and was right there with her in the heat and grit, taut with tension. No one seemed at all trustworthy while those who should have been, weren’t; which only left the naïve yet feisty main character of Avery with the desperate and risky choice of depending on someone who shouldn’t have been, and waiting for the other shoe to drop.
The adrenalin and activity levels were often high with a large cast of compelling yet slippery and tersely spoken characters who were edgy and tightly wound, which kept ratcheting up that ever-present sense of jeopardy and danger lurking around every corner. The plot was complex, multi-layered, and loaded with intriguing and unusual situations as well as confounding and disheartening obstacles such as language barriers, corruption at every level, a large bounty, unstable yet powerful and well-connected criminals, significant injuries, and Avery’s conflicted feelings and perplexity over the role and motivation of the person helping her and her bewildering feelings toward him – was he her savior or another level of captor. I wasn’t sure about him myself and seemed unable to put my Kindle down until I knew for sure.
Gaudy was the second thing that came to mind. First was no way. No way was she spending a night in this room. Her skin itched just looking at it. She shot Alejandro a dirty look in the mirror headboard designed to resemble a Mayan temple. The base of the temple was a collection of greasy imprints from the heads of previous guests. The mattress slumped woefully in the middle. Any more sag and the thing could be mistaken for a canoe.
… she’d been rejected. She hated it. Rejection was agonizing hell. It made legends out of poets and filled psychology textbooks.
My Review:
I’m always astounded when a debut author produces a polished and well-honed tale; color me flabbergasted, as this is one of those times. The storylines were uniquely intriguing, highly eventful, and advanced at an intermittent pace with rather unexpected bursts of activity, gunfire, daring and narrow escapes, cringe-worthy threats, brutal violence, kidnapping, betrayals, a blossoming romance with no future, and considerable subterfuge and duplicity on every level.
I was quickly sucked into Avery’s perilous vortex and was right there with her in the heat and grit, taut with tension. No one seemed at all trustworthy while those who should have been, weren’t; which only left the naïve yet feisty main character of Avery with the desperate and risky choice of depending on someone who shouldn’t have been, and waiting for the other shoe to drop.
The adrenalin and activity levels were often high with a large cast of compelling yet slippery and tersely spoken characters who were edgy and tightly wound, which kept ratcheting up that ever-present sense of jeopardy and danger lurking around every corner. The plot was complex, multi-layered, and loaded with intriguing and unusual situations as well as confounding and disheartening obstacles such as language barriers, corruption at every level, a large bounty, unstable yet powerful and well-connected criminals, significant injuries, and Avery’s conflicted feelings and perplexity over the role and motivation of the person helping her and her bewildering feelings toward him – was he her savior or another level of captor. I wasn’t sure about him myself and seemed unable to put my Kindle down until I knew for sure.
December 23, 2019
Harper McDavid’s debut is raw and gritty, romantic and suspenseful. The brutally honest and authentic storytelling along with the Real look at the Mexican cartel reminded me a lot of the In the Company of Killers series by J. A. Redmerski. This is romantic suspense done right! The perfect balance of romance and suspense, neither detracting from the other. Avery is an engineer, a job on the Mexican border is the ticket to moving up the job ladder. Soon she finds herself in the crossfire of a war between Mexican drug cartels. This leads to her being kidnapped by the crazy drug lord Javier. In order to free herself Avery has to trust in Alejandro who she knows nothing about. Not to mention that they do not speak the same language. What follows is a tense pulse pounding game of cat and mouse. This book really read like a movie. The story was action packed as Avery and Alejandro try to evade the cartel. Miss McDavid doesn’t pull any punches and that makes this a highly engaging, entertaining, and exciting read.
*** Big thanks to the author for my gifted copy. ***
*** Big thanks to the author for my gifted copy. ***
October 3, 2025
3.5 *
This was a throwback to the days when I read a lot of romantic suspense.
Avery is a mechanical engineer who is sent to the border town of Zapata in Texas to check on some oil plant leaks when she is kidnapped by the manic son of a drug cartel boss and taken to Mexico. Alejandro, the attorney for the cartel who is responsible for keeping them under the radar of the law, is Avery's only hope of escape.
Romance blooms as they go on the run amidst all the threats of gang violence and shooting. Alejandro has secrets that cause further problems.
I liked Avery and Alejandro and the story was gritty and full of action so this was a nice read.
This was a throwback to the days when I read a lot of romantic suspense.
Avery is a mechanical engineer who is sent to the border town of Zapata in Texas to check on some oil plant leaks when she is kidnapped by the manic son of a drug cartel boss and taken to Mexico. Alejandro, the attorney for the cartel who is responsible for keeping them under the radar of the law, is Avery's only hope of escape.
Romance blooms as they go on the run amidst all the threats of gang violence and shooting. Alejandro has secrets that cause further problems.
I liked Avery and Alejandro and the story was gritty and full of action so this was a nice read.
March 12, 2020
Perfect combination of spunky redhead and damaged hero.
Just finished Zapata and I will be reading more of Harper McDavid's work. She does a wonderful job of sucking you right into the story. You get the roller coaster of fear and pain and love and joy. You can tell that she has experience with border towns, her descriptions are really good. Enjoyed this read.
Just finished Zapata and I will be reading more of Harper McDavid's work. She does a wonderful job of sucking you right into the story. You get the roller coaster of fear and pain and love and joy. You can tell that she has experience with border towns, her descriptions are really good. Enjoyed this read.
August 19, 2019
Zapata
Border Series #1
Harper McDavid
Soul Mate Pub, July 21, 2019
348 pages, Kindle
Contemporary Thriller Romance
ARC-author
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙 4.5
The cover is definitely eye-catching. No one will miss it on the shelf at the bookstore. However, it is my least favorite part of the book. The colors are just too blinding and the picture does nothing for me as far as attracting me to read the book. I keep hoping they’ll change it before publishing it. That’s half a star! But that was the only thing I didn't like about it!
The story is really good. Avery is trying to make it in a man’s world — oil. She’s an engineer and working along the US and Mexico border. There’s a promotion down the road if she can get this job squared away and she sees no problem with it. She’s good at what she does, but she’s a woman and the men who work along the border are arrogant, macho men who see women in a very different role. Avery can’t believe there is still a part of the world that thinks this way. She’s not there to play their games and goes about her work. But she’s caught in the crossfire of two drug cartels who want control of this territory for their own purposes. She ends up being taken captive and imprisoned in a brothel where she’s tattooed, starved and tortured. Her captor is none other than the drug lord’s son, Javier, who is really crazy. As his violence level and fascination for Avery builds, Alejandro, the cartel’s lawyer looks for a way to release Avery before things go too far. Can she trust Alejandro? He’s a total unknown and seems just as dangerous as Javier. He speaks no English and she speaks no Spanish.
The pace is brisk as Alejandro and Avery try to escape the ever-higher ransom Javier offers for their return. The tension skyrockets as they try to find some sort of common ground to work from to allow them to trust enough to stay alive and make it across the border. It’ll take both Alejandro’s daring and Avery’s engineering to get them safely home. Where will that leave them after they’ve delved into each other’s secrets and desires which seem to keep getting hotter than the desert sun as each day passes? Can they build anything from that? This fingernail-chewing book will keep you drinking caffeine to stay awake to finish reading it in one sitting as I did. You will not be able to put it down once you start reading it. I highly recommend it for those who like lots of thrill with their romance.
Border Series #1
Harper McDavid
Soul Mate Pub, July 21, 2019
348 pages, Kindle
Contemporary Thriller Romance
ARC-author
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙 4.5
The cover is definitely eye-catching. No one will miss it on the shelf at the bookstore. However, it is my least favorite part of the book. The colors are just too blinding and the picture does nothing for me as far as attracting me to read the book. I keep hoping they’ll change it before publishing it. That’s half a star! But that was the only thing I didn't like about it!
The story is really good. Avery is trying to make it in a man’s world — oil. She’s an engineer and working along the US and Mexico border. There’s a promotion down the road if she can get this job squared away and she sees no problem with it. She’s good at what she does, but she’s a woman and the men who work along the border are arrogant, macho men who see women in a very different role. Avery can’t believe there is still a part of the world that thinks this way. She’s not there to play their games and goes about her work. But she’s caught in the crossfire of two drug cartels who want control of this territory for their own purposes. She ends up being taken captive and imprisoned in a brothel where she’s tattooed, starved and tortured. Her captor is none other than the drug lord’s son, Javier, who is really crazy. As his violence level and fascination for Avery builds, Alejandro, the cartel’s lawyer looks for a way to release Avery before things go too far. Can she trust Alejandro? He’s a total unknown and seems just as dangerous as Javier. He speaks no English and she speaks no Spanish.
The pace is brisk as Alejandro and Avery try to escape the ever-higher ransom Javier offers for their return. The tension skyrockets as they try to find some sort of common ground to work from to allow them to trust enough to stay alive and make it across the border. It’ll take both Alejandro’s daring and Avery’s engineering to get them safely home. Where will that leave them after they’ve delved into each other’s secrets and desires which seem to keep getting hotter than the desert sun as each day passes? Can they build anything from that? This fingernail-chewing book will keep you drinking caffeine to stay awake to finish reading it in one sitting as I did. You will not be able to put it down once you start reading it. I highly recommend it for those who like lots of thrill with their romance.
January 18, 2020
3.5/5 Full Review on Thegraduatedbookworm.com
First, I'd like to thank the awesome people over at TLC book tours for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
So at first glance, this isn't something I normally read. And I don't mean by looking at the cover. You all know that I'm a pretty avid fan of romance, although I do tend to read other genres. It just takes a lot to really fall for a novel that is more in the action or fantasy genres. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised while reading Zapata that I found myself wanting to read more.
The dynamic between Avery and Alejandro is definitely something else. While in the beginning, you know that his fluent Spanish keeps Avery frustrated, hoping that he understands ANYTHING she's saying, there are many secrets that get uncovered throughout the novel that kind of surprise you. I will admit, there were also moments where I found myself cringing over Avery's actions. There's a specific moment in the novel where I kept shouting at the book "WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU DON'T DO THAT!" But of course it's not like she can hear me...
Overall this was a good book. To say that I enjoyed a novel that wasn't based around a romance is (kinda) big, however this definitely had me curious to see what happened next! Of course t's pretty clear who I came to hate from the beginning of the novel, but I won't spoil anything for you with that! Personally, I just felt like there could have been more of a strong point to really heighten the reading experience between the characters and everything that Avery is going through. She's definitely a tough woman, and you really see her push through everything that's been thrown her way.
First, I'd like to thank the awesome people over at TLC book tours for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
So at first glance, this isn't something I normally read. And I don't mean by looking at the cover. You all know that I'm a pretty avid fan of romance, although I do tend to read other genres. It just takes a lot to really fall for a novel that is more in the action or fantasy genres. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised while reading Zapata that I found myself wanting to read more.
The dynamic between Avery and Alejandro is definitely something else. While in the beginning, you know that his fluent Spanish keeps Avery frustrated, hoping that he understands ANYTHING she's saying, there are many secrets that get uncovered throughout the novel that kind of surprise you. I will admit, there were also moments where I found myself cringing over Avery's actions. There's a specific moment in the novel where I kept shouting at the book "WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU DON'T DO THAT!" But of course it's not like she can hear me...
Overall this was a good book. To say that I enjoyed a novel that wasn't based around a romance is (kinda) big, however this definitely had me curious to see what happened next! Of course t's pretty clear who I came to hate from the beginning of the novel, but I won't spoil anything for you with that! Personally, I just felt like there could have been more of a strong point to really heighten the reading experience between the characters and everything that Avery is going through. She's definitely a tough woman, and you really see her push through everything that's been thrown her way.
November 17, 2019
Jeep scene was perfect.
April 16, 2021
I bought a copy of this when it first came out and I'm sorry it took me so long to read it, because it was SO good! Once I picked it up I just couldn't put it down. I'm a sucker for a good narco-thriller, and throwing in a bit of romantic suspense is 300 percent my jam. The prose was smart, fast-paced, and at times pretty funny too. The secrets unfold throughout the tale at a pace that keeps you wanting more.
I loved Avery, she was a strong female lead. She's very smart, a female engineer looking to make it in a profession dominated by men, but she just doesn't understand the stakes on the border, the way most people who have grown up in the stability of the USA can't. The rules are different. Life is cheap and machismo reigns. Her a-hole boss sends her blind into a tricky situation, and she gets in trouble talking back to a local cartel príncipe. He decides to teach her a lesson, and Avery finds herself kidnapped.
Enter Alejandro, who seems like a cartel stooge at first, but we find out his involvement is way more complicated than that. He's Avery's only hope of making it out of Mexico alive, and wow what an adventure that unfolds! Al was pretty swoon-worthy too, I have to admit. :))))))))) The romance that unfolds between them feels real, without being overly gooey, if you know what I mean. We also meet a cast of really interesting characters along the way. I adored Harvey, LOL, and Oso the rotund grumpy assassin who cooks, reminded me of Pote from Queen of the South, which just melted my heart!
Though this book is definitely an adult tale that features plenty of violence, and if violence against women is a trigger you might want to avoid it, I was grateful it wasn't as bad as it could have been. Like, you can look at the news and see worse things than what happens in this book, and that's ok. I was content with the suspended reality in this sort of story, it was definitely the right choice.
5 stars for Zapata! I'm so happy to see this is a series, I can't wait for the next book!
I loved Avery, she was a strong female lead. She's very smart, a female engineer looking to make it in a profession dominated by men, but she just doesn't understand the stakes on the border, the way most people who have grown up in the stability of the USA can't. The rules are different. Life is cheap and machismo reigns. Her a-hole boss sends her blind into a tricky situation, and she gets in trouble talking back to a local cartel príncipe. He decides to teach her a lesson, and Avery finds herself kidnapped.
Enter Alejandro, who seems like a cartel stooge at first, but we find out his involvement is way more complicated than that. He's Avery's only hope of making it out of Mexico alive, and wow what an adventure that unfolds! Al was pretty swoon-worthy too, I have to admit. :))))))))) The romance that unfolds between them feels real, without being overly gooey, if you know what I mean. We also meet a cast of really interesting characters along the way. I adored Harvey, LOL, and Oso the rotund grumpy assassin who cooks, reminded me of Pote from Queen of the South, which just melted my heart!
Though this book is definitely an adult tale that features plenty of violence, and if violence against women is a trigger you might want to avoid it, I was grateful it wasn't as bad as it could have been. Like, you can look at the news and see worse things than what happens in this book, and that's ok. I was content with the suspended reality in this sort of story, it was definitely the right choice.
5 stars for Zapata! I'm so happy to see this is a series, I can't wait for the next book!
August 14, 2025
A riveting, high-stakes journey with a heart as vast as Texas
Right from the start, Zapata has me aboard tighter than a seatbelt on a Texas backroad. Avery McAndrews is the type of heroine you cheer for instantly, and she is smart, resourceful, and unafraid of a little dirt (or danger) on her boots. Alejandro DeLeon is, shall we say, a blend of lawman, outlaw, and swoon-worthy mystery.
Harper McDavid pulls you into the treacherous romance of the borderlands, and you feel for the characters trapped in the turmoil. The cartel politics are sharp. The romance is expertly woven, the action is fast-paced, and the emotional punches land with satisfying weight.
Above all, I appreciated the theme of trust and unexpected bonds in a tale that is more than just about survival. The narrator paints a picture of something truly raw and transcendent, the kind of courage that forever alters you.
In the end, I was both grateful for a breathlessly exciting book and wishing for more. I’m excited to see what else Harper McDavid has in store for us after this strong first entry.
Right from the start, Zapata has me aboard tighter than a seatbelt on a Texas backroad. Avery McAndrews is the type of heroine you cheer for instantly, and she is smart, resourceful, and unafraid of a little dirt (or danger) on her boots. Alejandro DeLeon is, shall we say, a blend of lawman, outlaw, and swoon-worthy mystery.
Harper McDavid pulls you into the treacherous romance of the borderlands, and you feel for the characters trapped in the turmoil. The cartel politics are sharp. The romance is expertly woven, the action is fast-paced, and the emotional punches land with satisfying weight.
Above all, I appreciated the theme of trust and unexpected bonds in a tale that is more than just about survival. The narrator paints a picture of something truly raw and transcendent, the kind of courage that forever alters you.
In the end, I was both grateful for a breathlessly exciting book and wishing for more. I’m excited to see what else Harper McDavid has in store for us after this strong first entry.
November 29, 2021
Romantic thriller in vein of C. Coulter
Zapata by: Harper McDavid
Narrated by: Gregory Salinas
In my opinion, if you are a fan of Catherine Coulter or Iris Johansen, this debut thriller is right up your alley!
Gregory Salinas did a fabulous job with accents, both male & female voices, and I was never confused as to who was speaking.
I felt the characters were believable, the world building involving the border town, Mexico, and the cartel system is just enough, the danger, mystery, and twists keep your interest, and there's a touch of romance with low/mid steam.
Overall a great listen! I look forward to book 2, possibly with the persistent reporter! Well done!
I requested this ALC from the author, publisher, or promotional service, and I have chosen to post an honest, fair review.
Zapata by: Harper McDavid
Narrated by: Gregory Salinas
In my opinion, if you are a fan of Catherine Coulter or Iris Johansen, this debut thriller is right up your alley!
Gregory Salinas did a fabulous job with accents, both male & female voices, and I was never confused as to who was speaking.
I felt the characters were believable, the world building involving the border town, Mexico, and the cartel system is just enough, the danger, mystery, and twists keep your interest, and there's a touch of romance with low/mid steam.
Overall a great listen! I look forward to book 2, possibly with the persistent reporter! Well done!
I requested this ALC from the author, publisher, or promotional service, and I have chosen to post an honest, fair review.
August 12, 2020
Just finished and absolutely LOVED the audiobook version of Zapata. I knew I was hooked when I blasted through something like 15% while doing my Saturday chores.
I normally prefer to read rather than listen, but this turned out to be my gateway book to audiobooks. I am a changed bibliophile.
I'm a sucker for great character development, and it easily felt like I was watching a movie in my head the whole time I listened. The narrator sounded authentically Texan: slight drawl but not too fast or slow, and it was just perfect. You'll never get the characters mixed up.
If you haven't already, treat yourself to Zapata (and give the audiobook a try, if you're new to it like me). You'll be glad you did - and next Saturday's chores will fly by!
I normally prefer to read rather than listen, but this turned out to be my gateway book to audiobooks. I am a changed bibliophile.
I'm a sucker for great character development, and it easily felt like I was watching a movie in my head the whole time I listened. The narrator sounded authentically Texan: slight drawl but not too fast or slow, and it was just perfect. You'll never get the characters mixed up.
If you haven't already, treat yourself to Zapata (and give the audiobook a try, if you're new to it like me). You'll be glad you did - and next Saturday's chores will fly by!
December 6, 2020
The narrator, Gregory Salinas did a fabulous job portray Avery, Alejandro, and the secondary characters. His pacing and voice was easy to listen to and follow along. It was easy to discern who was speaking as well.
The story was a fun listen. This book certainly had its doses of thriller throughout the book along with a slow burn romance which I appreciated. Everything seemed realistic and it was fun watching Avery pick up Spanish. If you enjoy thrillers and slow burn romance then consider this book.
The story was a fun listen. This book certainly had its doses of thriller throughout the book along with a slow burn romance which I appreciated. Everything seemed realistic and it was fun watching Avery pick up Spanish. If you enjoy thrillers and slow burn romance then consider this book.
September 29, 2022
This romance novel hits all the high notes of a fast paced thriller, offering complex characters caught in a race for their lives. Avery, a smart engineer, is kidnapped by a ruthless cartel boss and taken into Mexico. She is rescued by Alejandro, a cartel lawyer, who risks everything to bring her safely back across the border. The unique secondary characters add to the drama. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
July 19, 2020
Another Five Star Author is Born
Beautifully written, her character development is stunningly sensitive. And she’s a fellow Coloradan, had to have grown up in Denver where my wife and I spent 59-years together. It can’t be long before she’s recognized by the New York Times’s ‘Best Seller List.
Beautifully written, her character development is stunningly sensitive. And she’s a fellow Coloradan, had to have grown up in Denver where my wife and I spent 59-years together. It can’t be long before she’s recognized by the New York Times’s ‘Best Seller List.
April 5, 2020
Wonderful read
Loved this book keeps u on the edge till the end and hated it to end
A great book to read
Loved this book keeps u on the edge till the end and hated it to end
A great book to read
July 20, 2020
Well written
Loved the plot and keep one engaged the entire book. can’t wait til the next part of the series is released
Loved the plot and keep one engaged the entire book. can’t wait til the next part of the series is released
December 30, 2020
expected ending....like a Hallmark Movie. but good light reading after reading several "PREY" books
November 24, 2020
A page-turner that kidnaps the reader along with the protagonist
A right-off-the-bat kidnapping of the protagonist introduces this fast-paced novel. I found much to like in ZAPATA. Richly developed, non-stereotypical characters from both sides of the US-Mexico border. Detailed setting descriptions that permit the reader visualize where the action is taking place. A growing, passionate—and suspenseful—romance. Numerous plot twists that keep the reader turning pages.
ZAPATA’s surprise ending left me satisfied and looking forward to more by author Harper McDavid.
A right-off-the-bat kidnapping of the protagonist introduces this fast-paced novel. I found much to like in ZAPATA. Richly developed, non-stereotypical characters from both sides of the US-Mexico border. Detailed setting descriptions that permit the reader visualize where the action is taking place. A growing, passionate—and suspenseful—romance. Numerous plot twists that keep the reader turning pages.
ZAPATA’s surprise ending left me satisfied and looking forward to more by author Harper McDavid.
November 18, 2019
Romantic suspense is my favorite genre at the moment, and when it features a smart, brave, and successful woman in a STEM field in the leading role, I'm all in. Avery is an engineer in the oil business, and she's called in at the last minute to work along the US-Mexico border. She's used to having to be confident and in control, always proving herself in this male-dominated field, but she finds some things that shouldn't be attached to their storage tanks--along with some oil production numbers that don't add up--and she finds herself speaking up to the wrong man. Unknowingly to Avery, this man named Javier Ramos is the unhinged son of a powerful local cartel, and he takes immediate offense to her questioning his being there. And before she knows it she's caught up in the crossfire of two rival cartels fighting over control and protection of this oil supply, then she's whisked away into Mexico and held in a brothel for ransom.
Avery's kidnapping and subsequent imprisonment is not only psychologically brutal but also physically violent. Interrogated and beaten at the hands of Javier, the only person who shows her any kindness is the cartel's lawyer/Javier's babysitter Alejandro. He wants to avoid a public scandal, and he rescues Avery before things go too far. But can she trust Alejandro or is he more than he seems?
Told from Avery's point of view with a few glimpses into Alejandro's head, I certainly enjoyed Avery's views on the world and how she held everything together even when things were so dark and tough. She's resourceful, smart, and stubborn enough to survive, but she's met her match when it comes to suave, sexy, possibly dangerous Alejandro. Alejandro definitely has ulterior motives for helping Avery, but the romance that blooms between them is so tense, so undeniable, it smoldered from the pages.
I give Zapata a 4.5 out of 5. This romantic suspense turned into a full-out thriller towards the last third of the book, and I loved it even more than I did before. The race was on, and I couldn't read the pages fast enough to see if Avery would ever make it back to the US. Harper McDavid's writing was fantastic, and everything flowed and was well-paced. This definitely doesn't read like a debut novel but one that a seasoned novelist would write. I could easily image the settings, from the cramped Mexican cities to the deserts to the small villages Avery and Alejandro fled to as they tried to hide from Javier. This book does highlight some very horrible things in such as human trafficking, the child sex trade, and drug trafficking. With complicated characters and a story that wasn't predictable, I highly enjoyed Zapata. I'm definitely interested in reading more from Harper McDavid and this series.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms. Book received for free in exchange for honest review.)
Avery's kidnapping and subsequent imprisonment is not only psychologically brutal but also physically violent. Interrogated and beaten at the hands of Javier, the only person who shows her any kindness is the cartel's lawyer/Javier's babysitter Alejandro. He wants to avoid a public scandal, and he rescues Avery before things go too far. But can she trust Alejandro or is he more than he seems?
Told from Avery's point of view with a few glimpses into Alejandro's head, I certainly enjoyed Avery's views on the world and how she held everything together even when things were so dark and tough. She's resourceful, smart, and stubborn enough to survive, but she's met her match when it comes to suave, sexy, possibly dangerous Alejandro. Alejandro definitely has ulterior motives for helping Avery, but the romance that blooms between them is so tense, so undeniable, it smoldered from the pages.
I give Zapata a 4.5 out of 5. This romantic suspense turned into a full-out thriller towards the last third of the book, and I loved it even more than I did before. The race was on, and I couldn't read the pages fast enough to see if Avery would ever make it back to the US. Harper McDavid's writing was fantastic, and everything flowed and was well-paced. This definitely doesn't read like a debut novel but one that a seasoned novelist would write. I could easily image the settings, from the cramped Mexican cities to the deserts to the small villages Avery and Alejandro fled to as they tried to hide from Javier. This book does highlight some very horrible things in such as human trafficking, the child sex trade, and drug trafficking. With complicated characters and a story that wasn't predictable, I highly enjoyed Zapata. I'm definitely interested in reading more from Harper McDavid and this series.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms. Book received for free in exchange for honest review.)
November 20, 2019
Exciting, suspenseful, and a proponent of STEM in the female lead role.
Avery McAndrews has never been the stereotypical female. She chose engineering as her career field and then took a job in the oilfield. While out on assignment in the Texas border town of Zapata, she begins to expect trouble will find her on her ride out to the production station. As she surveys the tanks and piping, she finds a crude installation of a “security valve” that is not in the plans and schematics. As she is preparing to ask questions of the team, two local cartels show up and start saber rattling. As things start to heat up, Avery hopes that she can get out of Texas with her life.
Alejandro DeLeon hates that he is saddled with babysitting his cartel boss’s son Javier. Javier is a hothead who makes stupid decisions and Alejandro is always left cleaning up the mess. When Javier concocts a scheme to kidnap a female engineer and force her to draw up construction documents for a drug transport tunnel under the Rio Grande, Alejandro knows that he must finally take action before the cartel’s operations are compromised.
As a fellow Texan, I always enjoy reading about books set in Texas. And for a change, the main character was an engineer, which is the occupation that my spouse has chosen too. I asked him a few questions here and there about both the engineering terminology as well as about the locations depicted in South Texas as he travels there for work frequently. I always enjoy when a book makes us have discussions about the contents!
The romance between Avery and Alejandro never seemed forced, but did develop very quickly as that can happen in intense situations. I feel that readers will find this an enjoyable read. I also like that a book is really promoting the science and engineering field for women and hope that it will spark interest for those reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Avery McAndrews has never been the stereotypical female. She chose engineering as her career field and then took a job in the oilfield. While out on assignment in the Texas border town of Zapata, she begins to expect trouble will find her on her ride out to the production station. As she surveys the tanks and piping, she finds a crude installation of a “security valve” that is not in the plans and schematics. As she is preparing to ask questions of the team, two local cartels show up and start saber rattling. As things start to heat up, Avery hopes that she can get out of Texas with her life.
Alejandro DeLeon hates that he is saddled with babysitting his cartel boss’s son Javier. Javier is a hothead who makes stupid decisions and Alejandro is always left cleaning up the mess. When Javier concocts a scheme to kidnap a female engineer and force her to draw up construction documents for a drug transport tunnel under the Rio Grande, Alejandro knows that he must finally take action before the cartel’s operations are compromised.
As a fellow Texan, I always enjoy reading about books set in Texas. And for a change, the main character was an engineer, which is the occupation that my spouse has chosen too. I asked him a few questions here and there about both the engineering terminology as well as about the locations depicted in South Texas as he travels there for work frequently. I always enjoy when a book makes us have discussions about the contents!
The romance between Avery and Alejandro never seemed forced, but did develop very quickly as that can happen in intense situations. I feel that readers will find this an enjoyable read. I also like that a book is really promoting the science and engineering field for women and hope that it will spark interest for those reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
October 26, 2019
The first thing I want to say is, when you get to about the 70% mark put on a full-on action movie like John Wick 3. Why do you ask? Well, I spent some time on the couch reading a good portion of the last third of the book while my partner watched John Wick 3 and the fight scenes perfectly matched the intensity of what I was reading.
To give you an idea, this is the This is War of books. This is the type of book I can see made into a movie and becoming a date night favourite. It has enough romance for the girls, while being action packed enough for the guys to love it, while also not over the top to the enough that the guys hate it.
Yes, I’m stereotyping couples. But that’s coz I’m thinking of my relationship and the types of movies we can truly enjoy that satisfy both our preferences.
Yes, the book includes kidnapping, human trafficking, the sex slave trade, drug use, various other criminal activities and unthinkable circumstances. So, if any of this triggers you, avoid this book! And I really do mean that!
If you love the excitement, not knowing what’s going to happen and those full-on action-packed stories that make you feel the adrenaline pumping through your body. Then you’ll probably love this.
For a debut novel I am amazed at the quality and I can see myself (and my partner who doesn’t normally read much!) loving her novel! I likened this to Matthew Reilly to him, but where the writing is a little bit more mature and the content is DEFINITELY more mature. But just as fun, action orientated and engaging as his books.
To give you an idea, this is the This is War of books. This is the type of book I can see made into a movie and becoming a date night favourite. It has enough romance for the girls, while being action packed enough for the guys to love it, while also not over the top to the enough that the guys hate it.
Yes, I’m stereotyping couples. But that’s coz I’m thinking of my relationship and the types of movies we can truly enjoy that satisfy both our preferences.
Yes, the book includes kidnapping, human trafficking, the sex slave trade, drug use, various other criminal activities and unthinkable circumstances. So, if any of this triggers you, avoid this book! And I really do mean that!
If you love the excitement, not knowing what’s going to happen and those full-on action-packed stories that make you feel the adrenaline pumping through your body. Then you’ll probably love this.
For a debut novel I am amazed at the quality and I can see myself (and my partner who doesn’t normally read much!) loving her novel! I likened this to Matthew Reilly to him, but where the writing is a little bit more mature and the content is DEFINITELY more mature. But just as fun, action orientated and engaging as his books.
November 27, 2019
The reader will hit the ground running with this fast-paced suspense thriller. When a feisty female mechanical engineer vying for a promotion is sent down to the "godforsaken border town" of Zapata, Texas, she mouths off to a crazy and dangerous drug lord who kidnaps her and makes her life a living hell.
Avery's life is in serious danger by the Ramos family cartel and the only man who can save her is the mysterious Alejandro DeLeon, Javier's Ramos' right-hand man. The growing attraction between Avery and Alejandro is an exciting buildup to Avery's terrifying journey as an innocent woman thrown into a desolate country filled with sleazy murderers and criminals you can't trust. Avery is a strong and resilient character who learns to survive on her instincts. Alejandro is out for revenge on the very people he is close to, but Avery has made him vulnerable which threatens his mission and their lives.
I loved this enthralling romantic suspense thriller located in the middle of drug cartel country. It will have any reader waiting on pins and needles to see if Avery and Alejandro make it out of Mexico alive. Another book to add to my 2019 favorite reads. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. McDavid for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Avery's life is in serious danger by the Ramos family cartel and the only man who can save her is the mysterious Alejandro DeLeon, Javier's Ramos' right-hand man. The growing attraction between Avery and Alejandro is an exciting buildup to Avery's terrifying journey as an innocent woman thrown into a desolate country filled with sleazy murderers and criminals you can't trust. Avery is a strong and resilient character who learns to survive on her instincts. Alejandro is out for revenge on the very people he is close to, but Avery has made him vulnerable which threatens his mission and their lives.
I loved this enthralling romantic suspense thriller located in the middle of drug cartel country. It will have any reader waiting on pins and needles to see if Avery and Alejandro make it out of Mexico alive. Another book to add to my 2019 favorite reads. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. McDavid for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
November 11, 2019
Zapata is a thrilling and raw romantic suspense that keeps you on your toes and stuns with a realistic depiction of the Mexican cartel. I am amazed that this is Harper McDavid's debut novel because it was written so well. I loved her brutally honest writing, character development, and pace.
Zapata centers around Avery who is an engineer. She is given an assignment in Zapata which is known for its violence and drug cartels. Avery puts this knowledge in the back burner trying to only focus on getting her job done.
Things become suspenseful when Avery is kidnapped. She starts to see how intense and violent Zapata really is.
I appreciate how Harper McDavid detailed the violence because that is how the cartel life is. She didn't hold back and respected the truth of the situation. It was because of the violence and torture that led Alejandro and Avery to forge a bond. Alejandro is the cartel's attorney and can't handle seeing Avery taken advantage of anymore.
This is a wild ride the whole way through.
I give Zapata 4 stars. It stood out because of the detailed writing and fierce characters. I loved that even in these destructive situations Harper McDavid balanced it with a romance between Avery and Alejandro. I'm eager to read more from this author in the future!
Zapata centers around Avery who is an engineer. She is given an assignment in Zapata which is known for its violence and drug cartels. Avery puts this knowledge in the back burner trying to only focus on getting her job done.
Things become suspenseful when Avery is kidnapped. She starts to see how intense and violent Zapata really is.
I appreciate how Harper McDavid detailed the violence because that is how the cartel life is. She didn't hold back and respected the truth of the situation. It was because of the violence and torture that led Alejandro and Avery to forge a bond. Alejandro is the cartel's attorney and can't handle seeing Avery taken advantage of anymore.
This is a wild ride the whole way through.
I give Zapata 4 stars. It stood out because of the detailed writing and fierce characters. I loved that even in these destructive situations Harper McDavid balanced it with a romance between Avery and Alejandro. I'm eager to read more from this author in the future!
November 26, 2019
Zapata was quite an entertaining read! The romance mixed with thriller was completely captivating!
Avery is an engineer who was just sent to a town in Texas, Zapata. Being a female in a male dominated workplace, Avery is used to the stereotypes of the day to day things and is sure that this new job is going to get her the promotion she knows she deserves. But things go south quickly once arriving in Zapata. She learns that the drug cartels in the area are in a war and she is now directly in the middle of it. Alejandro is an attorney for the cartel, in charge of managing Javier, the drug lords son, and making sure he doesn’t do anything too stupid. But then Javier kidnaps Avery. And everything changes for Alejandro and Avery.
I am a huuuge fan of Avery, our main gal. She was a strong-willed, dependant, brave woman and something to be reckoned with despite all that was happening to her. Her and Alejandro’s relationship was sizzlin’ to start and only gets better as they are put through high stakes scenarios. Recommended for fans of slow burnin romance, fast-paced reads, and thrilling twists and turns that will leave you constantly guessing. I am giving this a 4 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to read what is next for Avery and Alejandro!
Avery is an engineer who was just sent to a town in Texas, Zapata. Being a female in a male dominated workplace, Avery is used to the stereotypes of the day to day things and is sure that this new job is going to get her the promotion she knows she deserves. But things go south quickly once arriving in Zapata. She learns that the drug cartels in the area are in a war and she is now directly in the middle of it. Alejandro is an attorney for the cartel, in charge of managing Javier, the drug lords son, and making sure he doesn’t do anything too stupid. But then Javier kidnaps Avery. And everything changes for Alejandro and Avery.
I am a huuuge fan of Avery, our main gal. She was a strong-willed, dependant, brave woman and something to be reckoned with despite all that was happening to her. Her and Alejandro’s relationship was sizzlin’ to start and only gets better as they are put through high stakes scenarios. Recommended for fans of slow burnin romance, fast-paced reads, and thrilling twists and turns that will leave you constantly guessing. I am giving this a 4 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to read what is next for Avery and Alejandro!
December 16, 2019
Zapata is a thrilling and suspenseful romance that will keep you on your toes from the very beginning of the book. You are taken into the dangerous world of the drug cartel, and you are immersed into a perilous love story about two people who have all odds stacked against them. The main characters, Avery and Alejandro, are compelling and complex, and you are left rooting for them to be together throughout the book. McDavid paints beautiful and scenic descriptions that transport you into the story. You are sucked into each scene, and the excitement on every page keeps you anxiously waiting with bated breath for the next scene. McDavid’s knowledge about the cartel is impressive, and you are submerged into all the little details and nuances about the secret way of life of the cartel. She has a keen sense for understanding human behaviors and motivations, and her characters are executed beautifully. This is an exciting and suspense love story, and it’s highly recommended!
August 30, 2019
Love and cartels = YES!
This book kept me on my toes and kept me engaged. The bond forged between Alejandro and Avery while they ran from the cartel made me turn the pages faster and faster to see how everything would unravel. I loved Avery's strength throughout the entire book - even in the worst of situations, she remained strong and forged on. And who doesn't love a sexy suave man who does any and everything to keep his woman safe?? I know I do! He was her savior and protector when she needed one the most.
The journey they had to take was rough. But when you combine sexual tension with illegal activity and a crazed member of the cartel chasing after you, it's a yes please from me!
Love can find you anywhere - especially when you least expect it.
This book kept me on my toes and kept me engaged. The bond forged between Alejandro and Avery while they ran from the cartel made me turn the pages faster and faster to see how everything would unravel. I loved Avery's strength throughout the entire book - even in the worst of situations, she remained strong and forged on. And who doesn't love a sexy suave man who does any and everything to keep his woman safe?? I know I do! He was her savior and protector when she needed one the most.
The journey they had to take was rough. But when you combine sexual tension with illegal activity and a crazed member of the cartel chasing after you, it's a yes please from me!
Love can find you anywhere - especially when you least expect it.
January 7, 2020
As a fan of romantic suspense, this book drew me in from the very beginning. Both the action and the love story started right away, which made me happy. Avery is a smart and sassy heroine who learns that she is stronger than she ever thought possible after being kidnapped by the crazy son of
a powerful drug lord. Alejandro is mysterious and sexy...and the only one to show Avery any kindness during her captivity. Their story will charm and thrill you from beginning to end.
The technical details and descriptions of the landscapes were amazing, and, along with the rich and dynamic supporting characters, brought the story together in such a satisfying way.
I can't wait for the next release in the Border Series!
a powerful drug lord. Alejandro is mysterious and sexy...and the only one to show Avery any kindness during her captivity. Their story will charm and thrill you from beginning to end.
The technical details and descriptions of the landscapes were amazing, and, along with the rich and dynamic supporting characters, brought the story together in such a satisfying way.
I can't wait for the next release in the Border Series!
September 26, 2019
Zapata was a great, fresh new read for me. I really enjoyed the chemistry and the struggles between Alejandro and Avery.
Avery's a very well-written, strong character, and Alejandro is an extremely complicated, fantastic foil to her.
McDavid manages to delve deep into the darkest, grittiest parts of the drug cartels and violence that happens across the border without losing the thread of the romance. For me, it was an extremely interesting peek into a world I would not otherwise be interested in--and now, because of Zapata, I am.
I can't wait to see more from this author... especially if it involves Avery and her irrational fear of chickens.:)
Avery's a very well-written, strong character, and Alejandro is an extremely complicated, fantastic foil to her.
McDavid manages to delve deep into the darkest, grittiest parts of the drug cartels and violence that happens across the border without losing the thread of the romance. For me, it was an extremely interesting peek into a world I would not otherwise be interested in--and now, because of Zapata, I am.
I can't wait to see more from this author... especially if it involves Avery and her irrational fear of chickens.:)
February 28, 2020
A very well written and polished story. Absolutely marvellous. And I'm highly impressed especially with the character development and how the circumstances brought the changes gradually maintaining a very smooth pace.
The plot twists, drugs and violence really gave a kick to the storyline in the best way. It was so thrilling I just couldn't put it down even for a minute. This turned out to be a book that kept me awake whole night because every new chapter had something to grip you to it that you have to know what happens in the next chapter
Definitely deserves 5 stars!!!
The plot twists, drugs and violence really gave a kick to the storyline in the best way. It was so thrilling I just couldn't put it down even for a minute. This turned out to be a book that kept me awake whole night because every new chapter had something to grip you to it that you have to know what happens in the next chapter
Definitely deserves 5 stars!!!
October 23, 2019
I received an ARC copy of this book and was so happy to find that it exceeded my expectations. Zapata is a thrill from beginning to end. With interesting characters, engaging dialogue and challenging topics, Zapata is a new approach to the romance genre. It confronts harsh realities of life among a Mexican drug cartel and explores the empowerment of a woman in a male dominated society. It is truly a joy to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews