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Alaskan Security-Team Rogue #5
Strategic Maneuvers
Pierce has been waiting.
Working hard to lift up a woman who struggled to find her own strength.
A woman he intended to make his when the time was right.
But there can be no more waiting.
Mona is in danger. Threatened by an evil he brought to her doorstep.
Pierce worked hard to separate himself from the corruption and greed that surrounded his childhood, but there are some things you simply can’t escape.
Now he’s caught in a game he never wanted to play. A competition he can’t afford to lose.
Because of a woman he refuses to let go.
****
Being in Alaska has changed Mona Ayers in more ways than she can count.
It’s made her stronger. More willing to speak her mind.
More willing to take a risk.
But there are some risks she still can’t consider.
Like giving in to the man who’s more dangerous than she initially thought.
Pierce is well-spoken. Well-dressed.
And powerful. The ruler of his domain.
He wants to pull her close. Make her his queen.
But the world he runs is being threatened by a force she can’t pinpoint. Can’t find.
And it might just steal her king before she has the chance to rule him.
Pierce’s much anticipated story will conclude the overarching storyline that started in Loss Recovery, bringing you all the answers you ever wanted, tied up in a nice little Pierce-shaped bow.
Working hard to lift up a woman who struggled to find her own strength.
A woman he intended to make his when the time was right.
But there can be no more waiting.
Mona is in danger. Threatened by an evil he brought to her doorstep.
Pierce worked hard to separate himself from the corruption and greed that surrounded his childhood, but there are some things you simply can’t escape.
Now he’s caught in a game he never wanted to play. A competition he can’t afford to lose.
Because of a woman he refuses to let go.
****
Being in Alaska has changed Mona Ayers in more ways than she can count.
It’s made her stronger. More willing to speak her mind.
More willing to take a risk.
But there are some risks she still can’t consider.
Like giving in to the man who’s more dangerous than she initially thought.
Pierce is well-spoken. Well-dressed.
And powerful. The ruler of his domain.
He wants to pull her close. Make her his queen.
But the world he runs is being threatened by a force she can’t pinpoint. Can’t find.
And it might just steal her king before she has the chance to rule him.
Pierce’s much anticipated story will conclude the overarching storyline that started in Loss Recovery, bringing you all the answers you ever wanted, tied up in a nice little Pierce-shaped bow.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2020
771 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
November 2, 2021
A lot of people seem to like the Alaskan Security - Team Rogue books. A lot of reviewers have a lot of good things to say. I’m not one of them. I loved the prequel, Collateral Damage and rated it an easy 4-stars. It was short but was filled with potential. I liked the characters Carly Smith (who later became Bess Hines) and Whitt Daniels (who later became Wade Denison) and was excited to find out more about them…an auspicious beginning for a series, to be sure…!
Now we’re at book #5 and the supposed end of the storyline that has crossed 5½ books. The foremost thought in my mind is that these books have gone on for too long. There are so many complications, as opposed to interesting complexities, that it would do well to have a brief synopsis in front of each book to remind us of what has gone before, because none of these books is a standalone novel. Remembering all the details – let alone all the players – is near impossible…but neither is it a pleasing thought.
In chapter 1, Pierce and Vincent square off like the bad little boys they are; Vincent is the omniscient and all-knowing Oz while Pierce, the egomaniac, takes full responsibility for Mona’s becoming a strong independent woman. Of course he does.
In chapter 2, Mona squares off against Shawn.
It gets worse. This is understood to be the summation book where all the loose ends are tied up, where the continuing soap opera of Pierce and Mona is to be played out in fruition. The book is stagey, and as readers we are aware of the manipulations which are tiring. It is not an enjoyable read. The characters feel as if they are in a play rather than a slice of life.
I no longer care for Pierce or Mona. They are play-acting and seem cold, even when the writer is feeding them lines that are supposedly hot and heavy. The writer has spent many pages showing us how weak minded Mona is, how unassuming and fearful she is. Now – suddenly – she finds inner strength through talking us to death. It doesn’t work – her new-found strength doesn’t seem real; it’s more like a device used to move the story along. I got tired of Mona’s vomiting and Pierce’s superciliousness. We are told that Mona has “managed to find her way into the hardest of hearts” but we aren’t shown how. Mona throws up and/or passes out when she is stressed or anxious, then gets angry when the men don’t want her on a mission. Really…???
I’ve become enormously tired of the same exhausted plot being rehashed in book after book after book: poor beleaguered woman with tons of potential realized only when an alpha male comes along and opens her up and who then becomes fiercely protective and outrageously upset when things go awry…which they always do.
The writer created people who betrayed Alaskan Security, some outside the Teams and others within. There are so many flip-flops and recanting of sides that we need to take a believability pill…and once again a scorecard would be handy but since one isn’t provided, a reader would have to be truly motivated to provide her or his own.
At 35% completion, I had to speed up a bit. The book had been rehashing old conversations, old analyses, old concepts, old behaviors, and it got terribly tedious and insipid.
At 50% completion, the book was no further along: more repetitive discussions (yes, we had heard it all before), more decisions put off, more chest thumping males and indecisive females.
At 63% completion, the writer introduces two new characters (Amelia and Helen) whose sole purpose appears to be used in the story summations. Astute readers must call “foul!” because they are brought in at the final moment to serve only as a device to end the plot. There have been no clues, no clever bird crumbs to alert the reader to their existence, never mind their importance. In programming, we call this “retrieving something out of register A” or pulling something out of your a**.
At 67% completion, the book FINALLY comes alive. No spoiler here concerning how and why, but one could almost pick up the book at the 63% mark and be assured of losing very little of the plot. What I find so unforgivably irritating, as an avid reader, is that the first 62% of the book could have been summarized nicely in one chapter.
This supposedly final book of the overlapping storyline was far too mouthy: all dialog and little action. These are military guys who get to sit around and gab, thumping their chests from time to time or delivering food to their women.
The lines linking all the characters, alive and dead, are complicated. At 73% completion, I realized I no longer cared and zipped through to the end. I still don’t get all the connections (yeah, even when I dragged myself back, kicking and screaming, to outline more carefully the links among the players)…ack!…I don’t care enough to point out the inconsistencies.
There are the usual errors:
The name Lennie is sometimes spelled “Lenni.”
“One of his son’s is dead.” The “son” is not a possessive noun; the writer is discussing two sons.
“You now that’s not true….” Or maybe you KNOW that’s not true…?
This whole book could have been half as long and twice as good. But it was neither.
According to the Kindle webpages, there are three more books in the Team Rogue series. If I could be assured that we were headed back to realize the potential of the first little story, Collateral Damage, I would grab up these books with relish and devour them…however…I’m a little shy of this writer now. I do not trust her to tell a clear story that can stand on its own merit. I’m going to hold off for a bit. If all y’all are liking the pace and characterizations, then have at it for sure. For myself? Not so much.
Now we’re at book #5 and the supposed end of the storyline that has crossed 5½ books. The foremost thought in my mind is that these books have gone on for too long. There are so many complications, as opposed to interesting complexities, that it would do well to have a brief synopsis in front of each book to remind us of what has gone before, because none of these books is a standalone novel. Remembering all the details – let alone all the players – is near impossible…but neither is it a pleasing thought.
In chapter 1, Pierce and Vincent square off like the bad little boys they are; Vincent is the omniscient and all-knowing Oz while Pierce, the egomaniac, takes full responsibility for Mona’s becoming a strong independent woman. Of course he does.
In chapter 2, Mona squares off against Shawn.
It gets worse. This is understood to be the summation book where all the loose ends are tied up, where the continuing soap opera of Pierce and Mona is to be played out in fruition. The book is stagey, and as readers we are aware of the manipulations which are tiring. It is not an enjoyable read. The characters feel as if they are in a play rather than a slice of life.
I no longer care for Pierce or Mona. They are play-acting and seem cold, even when the writer is feeding them lines that are supposedly hot and heavy. The writer has spent many pages showing us how weak minded Mona is, how unassuming and fearful she is. Now – suddenly – she finds inner strength through talking us to death. It doesn’t work – her new-found strength doesn’t seem real; it’s more like a device used to move the story along. I got tired of Mona’s vomiting and Pierce’s superciliousness. We are told that Mona has “managed to find her way into the hardest of hearts” but we aren’t shown how. Mona throws up and/or passes out when she is stressed or anxious, then gets angry when the men don’t want her on a mission. Really…???
I’ve become enormously tired of the same exhausted plot being rehashed in book after book after book: poor beleaguered woman with tons of potential realized only when an alpha male comes along and opens her up and who then becomes fiercely protective and outrageously upset when things go awry…which they always do.
The writer created people who betrayed Alaskan Security, some outside the Teams and others within. There are so many flip-flops and recanting of sides that we need to take a believability pill…and once again a scorecard would be handy but since one isn’t provided, a reader would have to be truly motivated to provide her or his own.
At 35% completion, I had to speed up a bit. The book had been rehashing old conversations, old analyses, old concepts, old behaviors, and it got terribly tedious and insipid.
At 50% completion, the book was no further along: more repetitive discussions (yes, we had heard it all before), more decisions put off, more chest thumping males and indecisive females.
At 63% completion, the writer introduces two new characters (Amelia and Helen) whose sole purpose appears to be used in the story summations. Astute readers must call “foul!” because they are brought in at the final moment to serve only as a device to end the plot. There have been no clues, no clever bird crumbs to alert the reader to their existence, never mind their importance. In programming, we call this “retrieving something out of register A” or pulling something out of your a**.
At 67% completion, the book FINALLY comes alive. No spoiler here concerning how and why, but one could almost pick up the book at the 63% mark and be assured of losing very little of the plot. What I find so unforgivably irritating, as an avid reader, is that the first 62% of the book could have been summarized nicely in one chapter.
This supposedly final book of the overlapping storyline was far too mouthy: all dialog and little action. These are military guys who get to sit around and gab, thumping their chests from time to time or delivering food to their women.
The lines linking all the characters, alive and dead, are complicated. At 73% completion, I realized I no longer cared and zipped through to the end. I still don’t get all the connections (yeah, even when I dragged myself back, kicking and screaming, to outline more carefully the links among the players)…ack!…I don’t care enough to point out the inconsistencies.
There are the usual errors:
The name Lennie is sometimes spelled “Lenni.”
“One of his son’s is dead.” The “son” is not a possessive noun; the writer is discussing two sons.
“You now that’s not true….” Or maybe you KNOW that’s not true…?
This whole book could have been half as long and twice as good. But it was neither.
According to the Kindle webpages, there are three more books in the Team Rogue series. If I could be assured that we were headed back to realize the potential of the first little story, Collateral Damage, I would grab up these books with relish and devour them…however…I’m a little shy of this writer now. I do not trust her to tell a clear story that can stand on its own merit. I’m going to hold off for a bit. If all y’all are liking the pace and characterizations, then have at it for sure. For myself? Not so much.
January 26, 2023
This was a disappointment.
December 11, 2020
Trial by fire!
Pierce has finally found the woman for him soft and calm, yet strong and defiant, she challenges him but gives far more than she takes. The only way he can possibly claim her is if he keeps his dark side hidden, locked up...under control. But that is the Pierce Mona wants, not the buttoned up, suit wearing, in control business owner but the slightly wild, dark and dangerous man he tries to bury...is he brave enough to show her his dark side?
Watching Mona bring Pierce to his knees is beautiful, she shows him that love means giving all of you, sharing all of you and accepting all of the other person in return. Walking side by side through life, supporting each other, protecting each other and encouraging each other...even when you have created a monster!
This is book 5 in the series, all of which is available on Kindle Unlimited, and it finally brings the ongoing threat to an end. I have loved all five of these books, even though there has been an ongoing plot running through them all (which can sometimes be frustrating and a little off putting for a reader) book 6 is out in April...what is the next threat to face Alaskan Security? And who will be next to fall?
Pierce has finally found the woman for him soft and calm, yet strong and defiant, she challenges him but gives far more than she takes. The only way he can possibly claim her is if he keeps his dark side hidden, locked up...under control. But that is the Pierce Mona wants, not the buttoned up, suit wearing, in control business owner but the slightly wild, dark and dangerous man he tries to bury...is he brave enough to show her his dark side?
Watching Mona bring Pierce to his knees is beautiful, she shows him that love means giving all of you, sharing all of you and accepting all of the other person in return. Walking side by side through life, supporting each other, protecting each other and encouraging each other...even when you have created a monster!
This is book 5 in the series, all of which is available on Kindle Unlimited, and it finally brings the ongoing threat to an end. I have loved all five of these books, even though there has been an ongoing plot running through them all (which can sometimes be frustrating and a little off putting for a reader) book 6 is out in April...what is the next threat to face Alaskan Security? And who will be next to fall?
December 12, 2020
Best read in order because this book is the conclusion to an overarching plot line. What a conclusion! When you have a series like this where you see characters from other books in the series and you can tell what character said a quote because of how spot on the author is with character development, you are an incredible author in my book. She gives you everything you want in a story; Romance, of course, action and humor. She writes about strong women and the amazing men that will stop at nothing to protect them. Pierce and Mona's love story was a slow burn but had you engaged and rooting for them from the beginning. Must read series. Jemma Westbrook also writes books under Janice Whiteaker that you will love as well!
December 12, 2020
Awesome conclusion
This book was the conclusion to an epic storyline we've all been following for many months. Pierce and Mona have been dancing around each other whilst the drama and bullets have been flying . Finally the reason for all the upheaval is revealed and admits more drama an intrigue they finally stop their enemy. There was lots of action, drama and humorous moments in this book which kept us all on our toes. Fantastic book and series. Can't wait for Rico's book next.
This book was the conclusion to an epic storyline we've all been following for many months. Pierce and Mona have been dancing around each other whilst the drama and bullets have been flying . Finally the reason for all the upheaval is revealed and admits more drama an intrigue they finally stop their enemy. There was lots of action, drama and humorous moments in this book which kept us all on our toes. Fantastic book and series. Can't wait for Rico's book next.
January 6, 2021
This is great. All questions from the previous 4 books are answered and it’s tied up nicely. I wish the books were released closer together b/c I honestly forgot some of the main details from other storylines and I had to dig deep to remember which bad guy was which. But I’ve been waiting for this story for months and I’m satisfied with the end result.
I do wish the big twist was much more involved in the story but understand why the author didn’t write more. The focus was on Mona and Pierce. Again, great end result and worth the wait.
I do wish the big twist was much more involved in the story but understand why the author didn’t write more. The focus was on Mona and Pierce. Again, great end result and worth the wait.
July 24, 2025
So many things have kept Pierce from being able to take a breath - from running his company, protecting clients and agents, and himself all series long. Funny that it only takes shy, quiet Mona to shatter the walls around his heart, and allow himself to be (somewhat) happy.
Lots of intrigue and action in this one, and I can't wait for more.
Lots of intrigue and action in this one, and I can't wait for more.
February 28, 2021
Terrific read
Oh my this book has it all! Pierce and mona's story is just full of danger, adventure, love, laughter, it is everything I want in a romantic suspense book.this couple are just made for each other. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Oh my this book has it all! Pierce and mona's story is just full of danger, adventure, love, laughter, it is everything I want in a romantic suspense book.this couple are just made for each other. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
November 14, 2023
Most Anticipated of the series. Brilliant!!!
So this was the one we have been waiting for, the mystery man that is Pierce! and Jemma so do not disappoint.
I enjoyed this book so much I did not want this story to end. It’s was so so good.
The culmination of the over arching plot is here and what an explosive ending we get.
Pierce and Mona’s story was most enjoyable, both unsure of themselves, one showing it more than the other. The banter that forms between them is so much fun. Both being turned into stronger people throughout the story.
We still have all the characters from the previous books in the series, and they still play such an important part in this, as I’m sure they will continue to do in the rest of the series. Some standing out for their strong ball breaking kickass attitude, and we’re given such brilliant one liners that made me laugh out loud.
We have met new members of different teams during this and can see so much fun ahead.
I can’t wait for Rico and more entertainment from the different teams.
So this was the one we have been waiting for, the mystery man that is Pierce! and Jemma so do not disappoint.
I enjoyed this book so much I did not want this story to end. It’s was so so good.
The culmination of the over arching plot is here and what an explosive ending we get.
Pierce and Mona’s story was most enjoyable, both unsure of themselves, one showing it more than the other. The banter that forms between them is so much fun. Both being turned into stronger people throughout the story.
We still have all the characters from the previous books in the series, and they still play such an important part in this, as I’m sure they will continue to do in the rest of the series. Some standing out for their strong ball breaking kickass attitude, and we’re given such brilliant one liners that made me laugh out loud.
We have met new members of different teams during this and can see so much fun ahead.
I can’t wait for Rico and more entertainment from the different teams.
April 8, 2023
This series was absolutely riveting.
I stayed up until 0600 trying to finish this book, but I finally crashed.
After 4 books of build-up, I was a little worried the resolution might not stand up to what came before. That was totally unwarranted. The climax and resolution of the series-long plot thread was something else! It was meticulously constructed so it made sense in the long arc of the storyline as well as in the excerpt present in each book. It was masterfully written. I've enjoyed books written by this author under her other pen names, but I think this series is the best of anything she's written.
Pierce and Mona's story featured a little more prominently in this book than other main characters in some of the prior books, which I was very happy about. They were both complicated people, and unwinding Pierce's past and present was essential to understanding the resolution of the story. Mona's growth over the series was necessary - and Pierce always knew and encouraged that. This book lets us see that growth closer up.
The women of Intel are incredible, tough, caring, kind badasses!! I cannot say how much I loved reading stories that featured such amazing women! And the men are equally strong and very respectful of the women they work with. There are no shrinking violets being guarded by valiant protectors. This is a team of equals with different skills, all pushing each other to be the best they can be and empowering everyone to be able to protect and defend themselves.
This is nowhere more evident than with Helen. She is the ultimate badass. Exactly perfect for the role she's had for years. Her success in her mission was because she was so much more mentally tough and physically strong than anyone would have guessed by looking at her. I love her role as a long-term hero!
At the same time, none of the characters in this series is perfect. None have led charmed lives. They all knew some sort of struggle and difficulty before we met then and none come away unscathed. Ms. Westbrook does an incredible job of exploring all the characters' flaws, failures, and wounds. The grow through the series, but there is no magic wand that makes everything perfect. She shows us how love and community can grow despite very difficult circumstances.
I stayed up until 0600 trying to finish this book, but I finally crashed.
After 4 books of build-up, I was a little worried the resolution might not stand up to what came before. That was totally unwarranted. The climax and resolution of the series-long plot thread was something else! It was meticulously constructed so it made sense in the long arc of the storyline as well as in the excerpt present in each book. It was masterfully written. I've enjoyed books written by this author under her other pen names, but I think this series is the best of anything she's written.
Pierce and Mona's story featured a little more prominently in this book than other main characters in some of the prior books, which I was very happy about. They were both complicated people, and unwinding Pierce's past and present was essential to understanding the resolution of the story. Mona's growth over the series was necessary - and Pierce always knew and encouraged that. This book lets us see that growth closer up.
The women of Intel are incredible, tough, caring, kind badasses!! I cannot say how much I loved reading stories that featured such amazing women! And the men are equally strong and very respectful of the women they work with. There are no shrinking violets being guarded by valiant protectors. This is a team of equals with different skills, all pushing each other to be the best they can be and empowering everyone to be able to protect and defend themselves.
This is nowhere more evident than with Helen. She is the ultimate badass. Exactly perfect for the role she's had for years. Her success in her mission was because she was so much more mentally tough and physically strong than anyone would have guessed by looking at her. I love her role as a long-term hero!
At the same time, none of the characters in this series is perfect. None have led charmed lives. They all knew some sort of struggle and difficulty before we met then and none come away unscathed. Ms. Westbrook does an incredible job of exploring all the characters' flaws, failures, and wounds. The grow through the series, but there is no magic wand that makes everything perfect. She shows us how love and community can grow despite very difficult circumstances.
September 21, 2024
Super disappointing. I've enjoyed this series for the most part, but this book, the supposed ending of the Great Mystery, was not good.
First, the plot. Just nope. Secrets within secrets within secrets, and all of them from Pierce, the supposed super stud owner of the company. Tons of angst about his past, but no real resolution to it. Sure, the big bad guy bought it in the end, but it mostly all happened off scene. Most irritatingly, the reader never gets a picture of what all the Great Secrets about Pierce's Secrets ARE. His sister, her husband, her husband's brother, Pierce's niece, some hoity grandparents, all involved in the secret Secrets, but they're never made clear. We never meet the big bad guy, so his real personality, his motivations, are just told to the reader. And the supposed resolution is a complete letdown. The niece, who is at the center of this plot is barely seen, never described, never speaks, and Pierce never talks to her to explain anything. Giant gaping holes in this story and then it ends with a smarmy sweet epilogue that doesn't resolve 7a single thing, either.
Equally bad is the relationship between Pierce and Mona. I was looking forward to this. Nope. Pierce again is supposedly this dude with huge old secrets. If you're expecting to find out about his past, his history with the big bad guy, or see any evolution of him due to his love for Mona, you can stop holding your breath. There isn't one. In fact, we know nothing new about Pierce from his story besides that he makes mistakes and hates that. He frequently teases that he has some peculiar sex kinks, but that never materializes. He claims to have a long history with the big bad guy, but it's never explained. He supposedly has a big history with covert agencies, but you guessed it, we never learn anything about that. His treatment of Mona from a sexual perspective is just plain weird. He's hot, he's cold. He's confident, he's milktoast. He's open, he's secretive. And there's this big scene where Pierce strongly rejects Mona's offer of oral sex because he doesn't feel that's dignified. They get into a huge argument about it. It's totally unbelievable. I never met a guy in my life who refused that. I don't get how Mona can want this man. At least Mona's character evolves. She goes from a reserved, tense woman to a confident, sharp thinking agent who really steps up.
I'm pretty shocked by the high ratings. The ending of the storyline is just blah. The sex should be hot, but it isn't. There's so much discussion before and during the act, and it distracts from the actual goings-on. The development of the supposed romance is so slow and sometimes erratic that it felt boring. I mostly didn't care by the time they finally did the deed.
The pacing of the story was really erratic, too. I so hope the next one is better.
First, the plot. Just nope. Secrets within secrets within secrets, and all of them from Pierce, the supposed super stud owner of the company. Tons of angst about his past, but no real resolution to it. Sure, the big bad guy bought it in the end, but it mostly all happened off scene. Most irritatingly, the reader never gets a picture of what all the Great Secrets about Pierce's Secrets ARE. His sister, her husband, her husband's brother, Pierce's niece, some hoity grandparents, all involved in the secret Secrets, but they're never made clear. We never meet the big bad guy, so his real personality, his motivations, are just told to the reader. And the supposed resolution is a complete letdown. The niece, who is at the center of this plot is barely seen, never described, never speaks, and Pierce never talks to her to explain anything. Giant gaping holes in this story and then it ends with a smarmy sweet epilogue that doesn't resolve 7a single thing, either.
Equally bad is the relationship between Pierce and Mona. I was looking forward to this. Nope. Pierce again is supposedly this dude with huge old secrets. If you're expecting to find out about his past, his history with the big bad guy, or see any evolution of him due to his love for Mona, you can stop holding your breath. There isn't one. In fact, we know nothing new about Pierce from his story besides that he makes mistakes and hates that. He frequently teases that he has some peculiar sex kinks, but that never materializes. He claims to have a long history with the big bad guy, but it's never explained. He supposedly has a big history with covert agencies, but you guessed it, we never learn anything about that. His treatment of Mona from a sexual perspective is just plain weird. He's hot, he's cold. He's confident, he's milktoast. He's open, he's secretive. And there's this big scene where Pierce strongly rejects Mona's offer of oral sex because he doesn't feel that's dignified. They get into a huge argument about it. It's totally unbelievable. I never met a guy in my life who refused that. I don't get how Mona can want this man. At least Mona's character evolves. She goes from a reserved, tense woman to a confident, sharp thinking agent who really steps up.
I'm pretty shocked by the high ratings. The ending of the storyline is just blah. The sex should be hot, but it isn't. There's so much discussion before and during the act, and it distracts from the actual goings-on. The development of the supposed romance is so slow and sometimes erratic that it felt boring. I mostly didn't care by the time they finally did the deed.
The pacing of the story was really erratic, too. I so hope the next one is better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2020
Pierce is the man that runs the Alaskan Security team and this story is how he and Mona become the people they are meant to be. Both of the main characters have lots of issues to resolve. Pierce has an unfolding story that stems back to his childhood and Mona has no belief in herself. She has to overcome her lack of belief in herself that makes her so nervous - with Pierce's help, but also work on herself to help both her and Pierce become a strong and supportive couple for each other. Their smart ass comments, humour and everyday interactions make you laugh out loud! There's plenty of romance, action, strong men and women, a lot of team work and lots of suspense to keep you turning the page. Once they work out who the enemy is and why, then they have to defeat their enemy and wrap up all the plotlines. A fab read....in fact have already read it twice!
I would recommend that you read the previous books because there is an underlying plot within all of them. Although this is a standalone book, for your enjoyment it's much better if you know the characters, their backgrounds and why they are where they are...... Another great read from Jemma Westbrook... an author that I read as soon as there is a new book out!!
I would recommend that you read the previous books because there is an underlying plot within all of them. Although this is a standalone book, for your enjoyment it's much better if you know the characters, their backgrounds and why they are where they are...... Another great read from Jemma Westbrook... an author that I read as soon as there is a new book out!!
January 20, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
I'm giving this such a high rating because the Pierce/Mona story was good in the other books. It was kind of underwhelming in their book though. Possibly because it was so built up before (the fact she didn't know Pierce loved her in the previous books honestly shocks me. I thought she was just playing hard to get) or possibly because we had Zeke involved but were never really told what his role was with Mona or why he was so attached.
Also, after all the build up of the issue over 4 books, I felt like it was kind of a blah ending. It also comes down to a family issue and the family doesn't even get much book time. And the conclusion to the issue is basically just three paragraphs. We also don't really get a ton of answers on how everyone on the bad guy's side all know each other/found each other other than obvious links.
The grammar issues again exist here as well. I've started mentally adding in commas since the author seems to be a bit afraid of using them.
I'm giving this such a high rating because the Pierce/Mona story was good in the other books. It was kind of underwhelming in their book though. Possibly because it was so built up before (the fact she didn't know Pierce loved her in the previous books honestly shocks me. I thought she was just playing hard to get) or possibly because we had Zeke involved but were never really told what his role was with Mona or why he was so attached.
Also, after all the build up of the issue over 4 books, I felt like it was kind of a blah ending. It also comes down to a family issue and the family doesn't even get much book time. And the conclusion to the issue is basically just three paragraphs. We also don't really get a ton of answers on how everyone on the bad guy's side all know each other/found each other other than obvious links.
The grammar issues again exist here as well. I've started mentally adding in commas since the author seems to be a bit afraid of using them.
December 22, 2020
Hear me out on this....
I liked Pierce and Mona. What is not to like about our little Monster who has slowly found her wings and isn't afraid to shine. Ok, maybe every now and then she still wants to throw up, but who doesn't when certain situations happen.
Pierce on the other hand had me confused about how many sides he was showing and how flip floppy he really is. It wasn't until about 60ish way in that I realized he was trying to protect her from his past way of life. We can't help what family we are born into or adopted into. All we can do is make the best decision. Pierce may had been put in the worst situation, but he wound of being the biggest winner!
This story wound up tying lose ends. While I am sad this story line is over, I can't wait for the next story to start.
While I do recommend this book, in order to understand the history behind everything you need to start at book one.
I liked Pierce and Mona. What is not to like about our little Monster who has slowly found her wings and isn't afraid to shine. Ok, maybe every now and then she still wants to throw up, but who doesn't when certain situations happen.
Pierce on the other hand had me confused about how many sides he was showing and how flip floppy he really is. It wasn't until about 60ish way in that I realized he was trying to protect her from his past way of life. We can't help what family we are born into or adopted into. All we can do is make the best decision. Pierce may had been put in the worst situation, but he wound of being the biggest winner!
This story wound up tying lose ends. While I am sad this story line is over, I can't wait for the next story to start.
While I do recommend this book, in order to understand the history behind everything you need to start at book one.
December 8, 2020
Wow just wow
Where to start?
This is THE book I think everyone has been waiting for since this series started. And it did not disappoint.
Seriously guys stop what you are reading and read about pierce and mona as they are the most perfect couple and my all time favourite pairing.
Such a great storyline and strong characters. Very well written and to be honest it’s now my favourite book and I can’t wait to read it all again.
Not only did it have my all time favourite line in “she’s mine”, but mona proper kicked ass and I’m so proud of her.
The best thing about this series is you feel like you are part of that world and I’m so so happy to be part of Alaskan security.
Can I also just say that Helen is bad ass I love her!!
Welldone Jemma/Janice, you did good and I have no idea how you can possibly top this book
Where to start?
This is THE book I think everyone has been waiting for since this series started. And it did not disappoint.
Seriously guys stop what you are reading and read about pierce and mona as they are the most perfect couple and my all time favourite pairing.
Such a great storyline and strong characters. Very well written and to be honest it’s now my favourite book and I can’t wait to read it all again.
Not only did it have my all time favourite line in “she’s mine”, but mona proper kicked ass and I’m so proud of her.
The best thing about this series is you feel like you are part of that world and I’m so so happy to be part of Alaskan security.
Can I also just say that Helen is bad ass I love her!!
Welldone Jemma/Janice, you did good and I have no idea how you can possibly top this book
February 6, 2021
Wonderful series!! "Wow"
This series was a pleasure to read. Each character had their own fears, their strengths and emotional uncertainties. But once they slowly let their partner in, it was a joy to watch the dynamic sparks between them. Pierce and Mona are fantastic together and it was nice seeing her be more assertive and strong. Pierce was so buttoned down and terrified of losing control. But learning about his niece allowed us to understand a lot better the reasons for his fears, and his determination to protect those he loves and care about. It made me sad when I finished this book because I didn't have another one to automatically start reading. However I will be eagerly awaiting "Advance by Bounds"!! And please give "Shadow"; "Alpha"; and "Beta" their own great stories. A woman who can handle "Zeke" would be a great addition to enjoy.😉
This series was a pleasure to read. Each character had their own fears, their strengths and emotional uncertainties. But once they slowly let their partner in, it was a joy to watch the dynamic sparks between them. Pierce and Mona are fantastic together and it was nice seeing her be more assertive and strong. Pierce was so buttoned down and terrified of losing control. But learning about his niece allowed us to understand a lot better the reasons for his fears, and his determination to protect those he loves and care about. It made me sad when I finished this book because I didn't have another one to automatically start reading. However I will be eagerly awaiting "Advance by Bounds"!! And please give "Shadow"; "Alpha"; and "Beta" their own great stories. A woman who can handle "Zeke" would be a great addition to enjoy.😉
January 22, 2022
The owner of Alaskan Security finally has his story told and the overarching storyline that has continued through the first four books, is finally unravelled and secrets are revealed. While Pierce excels at portraying a steadfast and unflappable persona, the tsunami of emotions that linger just beneath the surface are fighting to be released. Can Mona survive the fallout of this strong and capable man's eruption, or will love once again slip through her fingers as lies and deception are ultimately unearthed. Strategic Maneuvres is a fitting climax to the unknown evil that has plagued the members of Team Rogue and their counterparts since book one began, and a thoroughly enthralling and thrilling read. I can't recommend this series enough, and will definitely be rereading in the future.
January 24, 2024
Phew…this one had me on the edge of my seat! Those final scenes cost me years of my life 😅
We finally got Pierce and Mona’s story and it was everything I hoped for! Pierce is so completely gone for Mona and had been biding his time to make her his. That time has come! I loved their chemistry and when they finally came together the sparks flew! This book had tons of action and was the conclusion to the overarching storyline spanning the first 5 books of this series. I loved spending time with all the previous couples and getting to know a few new characters. Looking forward to the next book and curious to see where it will take us next!
Safety:
No OW/OM
No cheating
No third act break up / no separation
We finally got Pierce and Mona’s story and it was everything I hoped for! Pierce is so completely gone for Mona and had been biding his time to make her his. That time has come! I loved their chemistry and when they finally came together the sparks flew! This book had tons of action and was the conclusion to the overarching storyline spanning the first 5 books of this series. I loved spending time with all the previous couples and getting to know a few new characters. Looking forward to the next book and curious to see where it will take us next!
Safety:
No OW/OM
No cheating
No third act break up / no separation
December 13, 2020
Love it!
Is hard to be disappointed when you read this series. Is an in crescendo. My fav was Dutch's book. But this book is so amazing. It outlines all the characters in the series and makes them deeper, more authentic more human. Pierce and Mona are fantastic together. I love the evolution of both of them. Their struggles, their fears, their strength. I think that is one of the characteristics that made me love the Jemma Westbrook/Janice Whiteaker books. The people in it grow in a slowly evolution, they are not static. They are always moving sometimes forward sometimes backwards and that is why it is so easy to identify whit them. I can't wait for the next one!
Is hard to be disappointed when you read this series. Is an in crescendo. My fav was Dutch's book. But this book is so amazing. It outlines all the characters in the series and makes them deeper, more authentic more human. Pierce and Mona are fantastic together. I love the evolution of both of them. Their struggles, their fears, their strength. I think that is one of the characteristics that made me love the Jemma Westbrook/Janice Whiteaker books. The people in it grow in a slowly evolution, they are not static. They are always moving sometimes forward sometimes backwards and that is why it is so easy to identify whit them. I can't wait for the next one!
December 13, 2020
Fantastic!
What kind of woman can handle a man as buttoned down, but terrified of losing control as Pierce? And what kind of man can deal with a woman who's been so scared of conflict, she literally gets sick to her stomach at the very idea. This story is more than romantic, it gives the reader suspenseful action, #girlgang strength, and wraps up an overarching plotline that has been exciting to decipher and follow from the beginning. I highly recommend the whole Alaskan Security series, and this one, whooey, it might require some special snacks and a soft blankie to get you through!
What kind of woman can handle a man as buttoned down, but terrified of losing control as Pierce? And what kind of man can deal with a woman who's been so scared of conflict, she literally gets sick to her stomach at the very idea. This story is more than romantic, it gives the reader suspenseful action, #girlgang strength, and wraps up an overarching plotline that has been exciting to decipher and follow from the beginning. I highly recommend the whole Alaskan Security series, and this one, whooey, it might require some special snacks and a soft blankie to get you through!
December 19, 2020
I loved this book! While it was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat, this book also made me laugh a lot; Heidi and Zeke were hysterical with some of their one-liners! (I'm really looking forward to reading Zeke's book in the future.) Pierce and Mona's love story was so sweet and sexy! I really loved watching Mona grow from being the quiet, insecure person in Counterfeit Relations into a freakin' badass in Strategic Manuevers!
This book was everything I expected and more! Jemma really did a wonderful job wrapping up the mystery that started in Loss Recovery and I can't wait to see where she takes this series next!
This book was everything I expected and more! Jemma really did a wonderful job wrapping up the mystery that started in Loss Recovery and I can't wait to see where she takes this series next!
January 4, 2021
A must read!
This book did not disappoint. The much anticipated ending of the ongoing mystery was everything I hoped for and more. Janice did a great job of showcasing the relationship between Pierce & Mona so that I still got the romance aspect of the book, while unraveling the mystery that’s been building in this series. Lots of moments spent between Mona & Pierce and tons of action. The action was nail biting at times but overall, very exciting and fun.
I highly recommend this book but better to start from the beginning of the series. I have a feeling I’ll be rereading the series again in a few months. It is that good!
This book did not disappoint. The much anticipated ending of the ongoing mystery was everything I hoped for and more. Janice did a great job of showcasing the relationship between Pierce & Mona so that I still got the romance aspect of the book, while unraveling the mystery that’s been building in this series. Lots of moments spent between Mona & Pierce and tons of action. The action was nail biting at times but overall, very exciting and fun.
I highly recommend this book but better to start from the beginning of the series. I have a feeling I’ll be rereading the series again in a few months. It is that good!
March 7, 2021
Not what I expected
The build up to Pierce and Mona’s story was thee nature series...and it did not disappoint. I loved how all the characters were still instrumental, but how Mona and Pierre both showed sides and personality about themselves that had not yet been seen. They are a great couple and their dynamic was entertaining and charismatic. The villain and goal took me by surprise. The information about GHOST was interesting and I loved Zeke turn in the story. I hope to see more of him....not sold on Vincent, but the role was done well. Good series and set of characters.
The build up to Pierce and Mona’s story was thee nature series...and it did not disappoint. I loved how all the characters were still instrumental, but how Mona and Pierre both showed sides and personality about themselves that had not yet been seen. They are a great couple and their dynamic was entertaining and charismatic. The villain and goal took me by surprise. The information about GHOST was interesting and I loved Zeke turn in the story. I hope to see more of him....not sold on Vincent, but the role was done well. Good series and set of characters.
July 26, 2021
Milquetoast Mona Ayers and straight-backed Pierce Barrick have danced around each other for the last couple of outings as they’ve both given a little. Pierce has decided they’ll sit the next one out as he ups his game and gives more of himself to Mona as Vincent postures to Pierce and the team hinting how much he and GHOST are needed.
The mysterious arrow aimed at the heart of Alaskan Security is revealed as the brainy Intel team underscores how important they are by connecting the dots. The brawny side of the house provide the loyalty, muscle, ruthlessness and protection they’ve done throughout the series. Hopefully we’re done with the vomit.
Rating: 4.5stars
The mysterious arrow aimed at the heart of Alaskan Security is revealed as the brainy Intel team underscores how important they are by connecting the dots. The brawny side of the house provide the loyalty, muscle, ruthlessness and protection they’ve done throughout the series. Hopefully we’re done with the vomit.
Rating: 4.5stars
December 11, 2020
What an ending
I was reading this and thought why was everyone he was hiring getting into trouble and I thought it was getting a bit far fetched ..... How wrong was I . When the Intel team finally connect all the lines the plot of how everyone is connected finally makes sense . The heat and love of words in this book is superb . I literally couldn't put it down . I liked how you read from mora's view and how vulnerable she was . And how he had this other family to hide and think about. Such a great read .
I was reading this and thought why was everyone he was hiring getting into trouble and I thought it was getting a bit far fetched ..... How wrong was I . When the Intel team finally connect all the lines the plot of how everyone is connected finally makes sense . The heat and love of words in this book is superb . I literally couldn't put it down . I liked how you read from mora's view and how vulnerable she was . And how he had this other family to hide and think about. Such a great read .
December 13, 2020
Every time I think I can’t love a character more Jemma proves me wrong... Pierce is always so serious, always about business until Mona comes crashing into his life without him expecting it. He thinks he needs to give her a chance to grow into the person he knows her to be but in reality she makes him see what he can be. Nothing of what he made his life to be makes any sense and he’s going to fight til death to love the life they both deserve. When death comes for her not once but twice; let’s just say there’s no stopping him...
January 13, 2021
Terrific ending
Pierce was a difficult character for readers, and probably the author, too, but for different reasons! He could come across as cold and calculating, but also as caring and protective. We knew from the moment he met Mona that he had found his partner but it was also necessary to wait and have Mona evolve and become confident, not just in her abilities but herself, as well. This is such a strong group of women! The kind the rest of dream are our friends. Thank you for this series, you never disappoint this reader.
Pierce was a difficult character for readers, and probably the author, too, but for different reasons! He could come across as cold and calculating, but also as caring and protective. We knew from the moment he met Mona that he had found his partner but it was also necessary to wait and have Mona evolve and become confident, not just in her abilities but herself, as well. This is such a strong group of women! The kind the rest of dream are our friends. Thank you for this series, you never disappoint this reader.
May 19, 2021
This is Pierce and Mona's love story
Mona has always been a wall flower nobody paying any attention to her but she's smart and part of the lady hacker team then Pierce has Zero teacher how to defender herself, and shoot, Pierce has wanted her since the first time he saw her as the owner of the Security business he's responsible for everyone. I would recommend this book and series for mature readers only that enjoy reading stories that are funny, steamy, suspenseful, and romantic. Well done
Mona has always been a wall flower nobody paying any attention to her but she's smart and part of the lady hacker team then Pierce has Zero teacher how to defender herself, and shoot, Pierce has wanted her since the first time he saw her as the owner of the Security business he's responsible for everyone. I would recommend this book and series for mature readers only that enjoy reading stories that are funny, steamy, suspenseful, and romantic. Well done
April 7, 2022
Guerrilla Tactics
Grumpy-growly meets Smart-sassy (continued)
Workplace /Opposites atrract/ Bodyguard
A girl knows what a girl wants.
Another steamy alpha male meets his sassy-snarky match.
Heidi and Shawn’s chemistry is off the hook.
This series gets hotter and more dangerous with each new story, the mystery twists, and just when you think you have it figured out, there is another turn!
Jemma Westbrook/Janice Whiteaker continues to strike a perfect balance between bossy alpha males and super smart, sexy, competent women, creating couples who work best when they work together.
Grumpy-growly meets Smart-sassy (continued)
Workplace /Opposites atrract/ Bodyguard
A girl knows what a girl wants.
Another steamy alpha male meets his sassy-snarky match.
Heidi and Shawn’s chemistry is off the hook.
This series gets hotter and more dangerous with each new story, the mystery twists, and just when you think you have it figured out, there is another turn!
Jemma Westbrook/Janice Whiteaker continues to strike a perfect balance between bossy alpha males and super smart, sexy, competent women, creating couples who work best when they work together.
September 16, 2023
Team Rogue
I have just finished all 5 in the series. I took Jemma's advice and read them in order. It is the best way to read them.The action,suspense and drama builds steadily from book to book. I enjoyed the way Jemma developed the relationships of the main character's in San book. By the time I got to the last one,no 5, I was desperately sucked in to the plot,sat up till 3am to find out how they 'rider's the bad man. No 5 did not disappoint.I thoroughly recommend this series.
I have just finished all 5 in the series. I took Jemma's advice and read them in order. It is the best way to read them.The action,suspense and drama builds steadily from book to book. I enjoyed the way Jemma developed the relationships of the main character's in San book. By the time I got to the last one,no 5, I was desperately sucked in to the plot,sat up till 3am to find out how they 'rider's the bad man. No 5 did not disappoint.I thoroughly recommend this series.
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