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The Leonidas Corporation #1
Found in the Lost
Crypto archaeologist, Kinley Dunn accomplished the impossible; translating an ancient Mayan text that stumped experts since its discovery hundreds of years ago. Rumored to hold the key to a vast and priceless treasure, Kinley is determined to be part of the discovery until she finds herself stranded in Guatemala without a way to reach her mentor.
Former SEAL Shane Ivers is searching for his purpose, but on this trip his only goal is to relax and catch up with his old teammates while exploring ancient Mayan ruins. What he didn’t count on was the smart and beautiful Kinley falling at his feet—literally.
An offer of a ride turns into a dangerous, heart-pounding trek through the jungle, while a simple vacation attraction develops into something deeper. With the help of The Leonidas Corporation, they’ll race to find the lost Mayan city, but there’s more at stake than priceless treasure and Kinley and Shane could lose more than they bargained for. Because someone wants the secret Kinley holds and will do anything to get it.
Former SEAL Shane Ivers is searching for his purpose, but on this trip his only goal is to relax and catch up with his old teammates while exploring ancient Mayan ruins. What he didn’t count on was the smart and beautiful Kinley falling at his feet—literally.
An offer of a ride turns into a dangerous, heart-pounding trek through the jungle, while a simple vacation attraction develops into something deeper. With the help of The Leonidas Corporation, they’ll race to find the lost Mayan city, but there’s more at stake than priceless treasure and Kinley and Shane could lose more than they bargained for. Because someone wants the secret Kinley holds and will do anything to get it.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 28, 2019
Found in the Lost (Special Forces: Operation Alpha) (The Leonidas Corporation Book 1) by Tarina Deaton is a great first book that is right up my ally. I love me some alpha military romance. It is a quick read and is a wild ride through long forgotten Mayan ruins and the hunt for long lost treasures. The suspense and the danger are palpable and it will have your heart pounding as you turn the pages and get lost in the story.
Kinley is going on her first archaeological dig, she is pumped, she is excited, and she is also unaware of the danger that is lurking right at her doorstep. She is responsible for finding something that has been lost for many, many years.
Shane a former Navy SEAL and his mates are on a much needed break and are going to traipse through the jungles of Guatemala. Unfortunately plans change when things become decidedly dangerous for the young woman that they offered a lift to when stranded.
If you are looking for a quick and easy read that ticks all the boxes for entertainment then this is the book to do so. I am so excited to see what Tarina gives us next.
Kinley is going on her first archaeological dig, she is pumped, she is excited, and she is also unaware of the danger that is lurking right at her doorstep. She is responsible for finding something that has been lost for many, many years.
Shane a former Navy SEAL and his mates are on a much needed break and are going to traipse through the jungles of Guatemala. Unfortunately plans change when things become decidedly dangerous for the young woman that they offered a lift to when stranded.
If you are looking for a quick and easy read that ticks all the boxes for entertainment then this is the book to do so. I am so excited to see what Tarina gives us next.
September 9, 2019
A fast-paced, blood-stirring, and sexy adventure that grabs you on page one and doesn’t let go until every delicious word is devoured.
“Found In The Lost” is reminiscent of watching an all-time favorite adventure movie playing out on the big screen.
The writing seems effortless, the characters immediately compelling, with a plot that quickly and engagingly develops.
Highly recommended!
“Found In The Lost” is reminiscent of watching an all-time favorite adventure movie playing out on the big screen.
The writing seems effortless, the characters immediately compelling, with a plot that quickly and engagingly develops.
Highly recommended!
July 24, 2022
Soooo, I didn't know this was a fanfiction like ??? Surprised to say the least. But it was good. I believe it had the potential to go longer and deeper definitely. I would have loved to get more of this. Just felt short. But good premise
May 17, 2023
I will confess that I have a weakness for books with treks to find some treasure and fall in love along the way. Throw in some added adventure and you have a great book.
Kinley and Shane had the perfect meet cute when she fell at his feet. But never has a fall been more fortuitous. She met Mr. Right and also found a partner for the adventure. I loved how the worked as a team each knowing there strengths but working to overcome their weaknesses.
I don't often talk about the motive but in this case it wasn't the typical I want money or at least that wasn't all of it. While I understood the motive the villain was crazy but underestimated nearly loosing the good guys the fight.
When Kinely and Shane parted ways from Phantom and Ace, I felt like they were missed but I guess they left so things could get steamy and boy did they. No, I am not just talking about the jungle heat. Kinley and Shane could have burned up the jungle with their chemistry.
This was a fabulous action adventure romance with equal parts of each. I would definitely recommend it and have already checked out the author's other books. I hope Paige and Graham both get stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kinley and Shane had the perfect meet cute when she fell at his feet. But never has a fall been more fortuitous. She met Mr. Right and also found a partner for the adventure. I loved how the worked as a team each knowing there strengths but working to overcome their weaknesses.
I don't often talk about the motive but in this case it wasn't the typical I want money or at least that wasn't all of it. While I understood the motive the villain was crazy but underestimated nearly loosing the good guys the fight.
When Kinely and Shane parted ways from Phantom and Ace, I felt like they were missed but I guess they left so things could get steamy and boy did they. No, I am not just talking about the jungle heat. Kinley and Shane could have burned up the jungle with their chemistry.
This was a fabulous action adventure romance with equal parts of each. I would definitely recommend it and have already checked out the author's other books. I hope Paige and Graham both get stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2023
I simply loved this story but then I am partial to a good archaeological romantic adventure where two characters come together and find more than a mysterious archaeological treasure. I thought the two primary lead characters of Kinley Dunn, cyrptoarchaelogist and ex- military Seal Shane aka BAN ( you can read the book to find out what his codename means) were fantastic. As well as many of the secondary characters mentioned throughout.
But with many stories that involve ex-military characters I love the strong sense of comraderie and unity that connects them together and the whole sense of protectiveness that comes about. It's got that positive vibe you see in movies like Romancing the Stone and the Raiders of the Lost Ark series where readers are transported to mysterious and unclaimed ancient ruins filled with unknown treasures. I found the plot was well constructed and flowed smoothly with a good balance of mystery, suspense, romantic moments and that generous amount of light humour to keep your attention throughout. Looking forward to reading more on The Leonidas Corporation series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But with many stories that involve ex-military characters I love the strong sense of comraderie and unity that connects them together and the whole sense of protectiveness that comes about. It's got that positive vibe you see in movies like Romancing the Stone and the Raiders of the Lost Ark series where readers are transported to mysterious and unclaimed ancient ruins filled with unknown treasures. I found the plot was well constructed and flowed smoothly with a good balance of mystery, suspense, romantic moments and that generous amount of light humour to keep your attention throughout. Looking forward to reading more on The Leonidas Corporation series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2023
Found in the Lost is a short(ish) read that packs an exciting punch, and frankly, I wanted more. It starts out with strange things happening to Kinley as she's stranded in Guatemala after translating an ancient Mayan text, which no other person has been able to do. See, she's determined to be part of the discovery that this text is supposed to lead them to a big treasure, but again, strange things are happening to her from the jump. Luckily, during this trying time, she ends up meeting former SEAL, Shane & his SEAL buddies off on a relaxing trip, and they figure out quickly that there's someone out there who wants something from Kinley badly. The twists are coming in hot, the sparks are flying between Shane & Kinley, and the supporting cast adds humor to the mix as they try to figure things out while keeping her safe. I CANNOT WAIT to read more of this series, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 22, 2023
This first book in the Leonidas series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.It is written in third person from an alternating dual POV.
Kinley is a little nerdy and a lot smart as well as beautiful. When she gets stranded on her way to a Guatemalan archeological site, she meets Shane. She is wary but thrilled when he offers her a ride. But their adventure is just beginning. Shane is a former SEAL and is visiting Guatemala with 2 active duty SEAL friends when they meet Kinley.
The book is full of adventure and risk. There are heated and detailed intimate scenes between Shane and Kinley as they give in to their mutual attraction. I love how fast their feelings for each other grow in the face of danger. I love how supportive Shane is of Kinley, her work, and her dreams. The story has action and betrayal woven into a tight plot line while setting up the series. This was my first read by this author and I loved it. I am very excited to read more of this series.
Kinley is a little nerdy and a lot smart as well as beautiful. When she gets stranded on her way to a Guatemalan archeological site, she meets Shane. She is wary but thrilled when he offers her a ride. But their adventure is just beginning. Shane is a former SEAL and is visiting Guatemala with 2 active duty SEAL friends when they meet Kinley.
The book is full of adventure and risk. There are heated and detailed intimate scenes between Shane and Kinley as they give in to their mutual attraction. I love how fast their feelings for each other grow in the face of danger. I love how supportive Shane is of Kinley, her work, and her dreams. The story has action and betrayal woven into a tight plot line while setting up the series. This was my first read by this author and I loved it. I am very excited to read more of this series.
March 1, 2026
This romance between a para-archeologist and a former Navy SEAL stands out thanks to its unique pairing and strong setting in the American South. The combination of archaeology with a military background creates a dynamic that feels fresh and engaging.
The characters are well developed, and their personalities complement each other in a way that makes the romance believable and enjoyable. Their emotional connection builds naturally alongside the unfolding events.
There’s also plenty of action and external threats woven into the plot, which keeps the pacing lively. The suspense elements add tension without overshadowing the romantic development, making the story feel balanced.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with interesting characters, a distinctive premise, and enough action to keep things exciting. If you like romance mixed with adventure and danger, this one is definitely worth a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are well developed, and their personalities complement each other in a way that makes the romance believable and enjoyable. Their emotional connection builds naturally alongside the unfolding events.
There’s also plenty of action and external threats woven into the plot, which keeps the pacing lively. The suspense elements add tension without overshadowing the romantic development, making the story feel balanced.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with interesting characters, a distinctive premise, and enough action to keep things exciting. If you like romance mixed with adventure and danger, this one is definitely worth a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2026
I am going to say I loved this book from the start, the plot the great characters and oh the right about of action and spice.
Kinley is as beautiful and smart and a woman who is unaware of this. While stranded on her way to archeological dig site she meets Shane. A true proctor, alpha retired Navy SEAL, who is with two serving SEALs. Being the man he is he offers Kinley a life to the site. The attraction is instant and so is the humour and chemistry. Oh this book has it all action, treasure, pace a plot that will keep your head spinning.
Let’s not forget how Shane is a great support to Kinley. She may have her head in books and dirt she is no push over and has strength. Oh the spice between them is perfect.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kinley is as beautiful and smart and a woman who is unaware of this. While stranded on her way to archeological dig site she meets Shane. A true proctor, alpha retired Navy SEAL, who is with two serving SEALs. Being the man he is he offers Kinley a life to the site. The attraction is instant and so is the humour and chemistry. Oh this book has it all action, treasure, pace a plot that will keep your head spinning.
Let’s not forget how Shane is a great support to Kinley. She may have her head in books and dirt she is no push over and has strength. Oh the spice between them is perfect.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2026
Being smart is not always a good thing. Kinley Dunn has done the unthinkable as a crypto archeologist. She has deciphered ancient Myan text and is about to go on a trip of a lifetime. Meeting her mentor to go over the dig that they are on. This is so important for history and her career. When she gets stranded at the airport, she has to figure out how to get to the dig site. Being offered a ride isn't what she thought it would be. And meeting Shane Ivers was definitely not on her bingo card. Shane is just trying to find himself. A vacation with his brothers turns into a rescue mission for a beautiful woman who has caught his eye. But his eye isn't the only one. And the three of them will do whatever they can to protect her. As they navigate the timeline, Shane and Kinley become closer. Can they have a future out of the jungle? And can they find out what secrets are hidden?
February 3, 2026
This is book one in The Leonidas Corporation series and is the story of Shane and Kinley. They meet in an airport in Guatemala when Kinley is stranded and Shane offers her a solution. During their trip to Carmelita it becomes apparent to Shane and his friends that Kinley is being targeted because as a crypto archaeologist she translated something and now the bad guys want her to unravel the mystery so they can steal the riches. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Some sentences require the reader to assume what the author meant as they are not clear nor concise due to repeated words or missing words. With better editing I likely would have given 5 stars. I look forward to seeing this author grow.
August 26, 2023
Wow, a fast paced book that had me interested from page one. This story had it all, intrigue, double crossing, a hunt for treasure and some steamy sessions. In a male dominated world Kinley was keen to make her mark but this was not without risk. Fortunately Shane was a true protector and add in an instant attraction and their lighthearted conversations which brought a smile to my face. I enjoyed the relationship he had with his employers, The Leonidas Corporation and look forward to reading more books in this series.
Now I know what BAN stands for and it was a perfect ending to the book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now I know what BAN stands for and it was a perfect ending to the book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2020
I inhaled this story! Then had to go back and start all over and get all the goodness again.
Loved Shane and Kinley's meeting and how things just connected and fit together between them. The sparks burned off the pages, and their adventure and the way they supported and cared for the other quickly became a adventure I didn't want to have end!
This has the feel of one of those awesome summertime adventure escapes we crave every year.
So much was jammed packed in a few pages and I didn't feel anything was left lacking.
Loved Shane and Kinley's meeting and how things just connected and fit together between them. The sparks burned off the pages, and their adventure and the way they supported and cared for the other quickly became a adventure I didn't want to have end!
This has the feel of one of those awesome summertime adventure escapes we crave every year.
So much was jammed packed in a few pages and I didn't feel anything was left lacking.
February 7, 2026
Crypto archaeologist Kinsley gets left in Guatemala when she meets former seal Shane and they join forces.
The action and suspense in this book was so compelling i found it hard to put down. I was captured.
Kinsley and Shane made the perfect couple and with her smarts and his protection, they couldn't help but succeed.
I enjoyed the whole experience in this book and I want to read more like this. So good!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The action and suspense in this book was so compelling i found it hard to put down. I was captured.
Kinsley and Shane made the perfect couple and with her smarts and his protection, they couldn't help but succeed.
I enjoyed the whole experience in this book and I want to read more like this. So good!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 22, 2026
This is Book 1 of The Leondias Corporation series. And a FANrastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Because someone wants the secret Kinley holds and will do anything to get it.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Because someone wants the secret Kinley holds and will do anything to get it.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2026
Found in the Lost is a archeology on Kinley, a Crypto archeologist, who becomes stranded when her party left her at the archeology site, and Shane, a retired Navy Seal, who is on vacation exploring the Mayan ruins when he comes across Kinley and gives her a ride through the jungle which is anything but calm. Shane and Kinley set off on a archeology hunt. This well written book has realistic characters, unexpected plot twists, mystery, danger, humor, and spicy romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2026
Shane and Kinley had such are great meet cute. Shane was a born protector and it's not something him or his friends can turn off. Kinley is traveling for work with no clue about the danger that's lurking around her "job". Shane is interested in getting to know Kinley, but he thinks she might be in a bit of danger. Suspenseful fast paced race to HEA! I enjoyed this one and started the next book in the series asap.
February 20, 2026
An archaeological work abroad turns into an adventure, then threatening situations, amidst a romance.
A lucky meeting for the heroine with the hero and his friends, later his colleagues, who have the necessary skill sets and resources to deal with the perils she's gotten herself into.
I enjoyed every aspect of the story, which was in the right dosage.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A lucky meeting for the heroine with the hero and his friends, later his colleagues, who have the necessary skill sets and resources to deal with the perils she's gotten herself into.
I enjoyed every aspect of the story, which was in the right dosage.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2020
3.5 stars from me. I enjoyed the characters, but the background on the secondary characters was lacking. We don’t get much info on them until the second book. The suspense was well done, but I would have like to have it a little meatier and more drawn out. But I enjoyed it enough to look forward to the second book.
January 13, 2023
Didn't think much as I read but boy did I enjoy the trip through ancient civilization! My first book my this author& it won't be the last. So much fun, adventure & super heated moments that make you sigh. Fabulous characters I want to get to know.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2023
Great read! Just the kind of stories I look for when I think "romance". A well-written story that draws you in from start to finish. Kinley and Shane were so very cute right from the start and I liked them both. Their chemistry was fantastic. I think I'll take a look at the second book from this series :)
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2026
A gripping story that had me finishing quickly! My first book by Tarina and definitely not my last. Kinley and Shane's story was a page turner with danger, action, suspense, and of course passion that grew to love. I was wondering what obstacle was around the next corner as the stakes grew. After all the trials they got themselves a cute little HEA.
February 21, 2026
I found the story interesting and the characters developed and relatable, I believed in the connection between Kinley and Shane, really liked the way they clicked from the start and how opened they were with each other. I also liked the respect they had for each other and how they supported one another.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2023
Found in the Lost is a fast moving story you'll find yourself lost in. There's plenty of suspense and danger lurking for Kinley on her first assignment in the field, plus a hot blond hero. This trip to the Guatemalan jungles is just the adventure you are looking for.
February 21, 2026
This was a new to me author.
This review will be short and sweet just like the novella.
Normally I detest short reads as something always gets lost or forgotten, but that wasn't an issue with this read.
Everything was perfectly balanced, especially the page turning plot.
This review will be short and sweet just like the novella.
Normally I detest short reads as something always gets lost or forgotten, but that wasn't an issue with this read.
Everything was perfectly balanced, especially the page turning plot.
May 3, 2026
Good book. I liked this book just as much as the other books in this series. The characters were good and so were the details.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2023
This book is a quick easy read full of excitement and adventure.
It’s very intriguing, action packed.
I loved Shane and Kinley!
It’s very intriguing, action packed.
I loved Shane and Kinley!
Want to Read
March 21, 2023Amazon Purch. March 20, 2023
May 15, 2023
adventurous
Excellent story. Always like stories of finding lost archeological sites. Excitement, feeling for the team of Seals, love story. What more is there.
Excellent story. Always like stories of finding lost archeological sites. Excitement, feeling for the team of Seals, love story. What more is there.
December 3, 2024
⛔️(in notes)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews