What do you think?
Rate this book
The Intelligence Unit #1
The Rookie
The stakes are high and the passion is hot.
Police recruit Xander Matthews will do anything to keep his dark and dangerous past in his rear-view. A past that includes brash, beautiful A.D.A. Tara Kingston—the woman who tried to put him away two years ago.
Yet here she is, smack in the middle of a crime scene and now they have to work together to catch a killer.
Nothing will stop Tara from getting justice. Not even a gorgeous bad boy who makes her want to get close when she knows she should walk away.
But the more she gets to know him, he’s the only thing she wants.
When danger rises from the shadows, Xander will have to risk everything to keep Tara safe.
No matter the cost.
Police recruit Xander Matthews will do anything to keep his dark and dangerous past in his rear-view. A past that includes brash, beautiful A.D.A. Tara Kingston—the woman who tried to put him away two years ago.
Yet here she is, smack in the middle of a crime scene and now they have to work together to catch a killer.
Nothing will stop Tara from getting justice. Not even a gorgeous bad boy who makes her want to get close when she knows she should walk away.
But the more she gets to know him, he’s the only thing she wants.
When danger rises from the shadows, Xander will have to risk everything to keep Tara safe.
No matter the cost.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2020
402 people are currently reading
4201 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
62 books2,676 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 2, 2020
The Rookie is book one in Kimberly Kincaid’s brand new series, The Intelligence Unit. This novella was previously released as part of the Danger and Desire Romantic Suspense Anthology.
Tara Kingston loves her job as Assistant District Attorney in Remington, North Carolina. She’s been there for three years. Her latest case is consuming her, taking down a notorious criminal they’ve been after for a long time. Only now she has a confidential informant that is going to take him down. All they have to do is make sure she is safe until the trial.
Xander Matthews has been with the Remington Police Dept. for about a year. He’s still a rookie. He loves his job. It’s a long way from who he used to be. Someone he’s not proud of. He never thought he’d see Tara Kingston again. She tried to arrest him two years ago. But when a call came in of an injured woman in trouble, they came face to face. Only this time, there was something completely new arcing between them.
“How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“You make it so easy for me to breathe.”
As Xander and Tara begin to explore the new found attraction between them, the case progresses as does the danger they are all in. These two are so perfect together. Xander is so fiercely protective, and so sweet. The rubber duckie story, that’s all I’m saying about that.
“She was going to ruin him with nothing more than a kiss, and he was going to love every second.”
This was fairly short but was a complete story. I loved the sort of family, the people Xander has in his life now that have his back. And I loved the relationship between he and his sister, Kennedy. Even though you don’t need to have read it, there are several cross over characters from Kimberly’s Station Seventeen series. As well as an appearance of Tess from the Remington Medical Series. This was a sexy, sweet and suspenseful book with so much packed inside. I can already tell I’m going to love this series. The next book will be Matteo Garza’s book in The Guardian. I can’t wait.
“Let me be what you need.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Tara Kingston loves her job as Assistant District Attorney in Remington, North Carolina. She’s been there for three years. Her latest case is consuming her, taking down a notorious criminal they’ve been after for a long time. Only now she has a confidential informant that is going to take him down. All they have to do is make sure she is safe until the trial.
Xander Matthews has been with the Remington Police Dept. for about a year. He’s still a rookie. He loves his job. It’s a long way from who he used to be. Someone he’s not proud of. He never thought he’d see Tara Kingston again. She tried to arrest him two years ago. But when a call came in of an injured woman in trouble, they came face to face. Only this time, there was something completely new arcing between them.
“How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“You make it so easy for me to breathe.”
As Xander and Tara begin to explore the new found attraction between them, the case progresses as does the danger they are all in. These two are so perfect together. Xander is so fiercely protective, and so sweet. The rubber duckie story, that’s all I’m saying about that.
“She was going to ruin him with nothing more than a kiss, and he was going to love every second.”
This was fairly short but was a complete story. I loved the sort of family, the people Xander has in his life now that have his back. And I loved the relationship between he and his sister, Kennedy. Even though you don’t need to have read it, there are several cross over characters from Kimberly’s Station Seventeen series. As well as an appearance of Tess from the Remington Medical Series. This was a sexy, sweet and suspenseful book with so much packed inside. I can already tell I’m going to love this series. The next book will be Matteo Garza’s book in The Guardian. I can’t wait.
“Let me be what you need.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
March 9, 2021
Opposites attract and make a sizzling hot team in this story about police recruit Xander Matthews and the beautiful assistant district attorney Tara Kingston who two years back tried to prosecute him.
A tragic incident in her past helped Tara decide she wanted to fight for people who couldn’t fight for themselves and help seek justice. Her job has helped he do just that and she’s now in the process of putting a vicious criminal behind bars. She just needs her informant to be safe until the trial.
Xander Matthews has come a long way from his “do anything to survive” beginnings. As a rookie in the police force his intention is to make a difference while leaving his past behind. But there’s one person from his past he most certainly didn’t foresee teaming up with. As Xander and Tara work to protect a key witness, the two explore their attraction.
I LOVE starting a new series and The Rookie was a perfect short story to launch this romantic suspense series. Kimberly Kincaid skillfully creates appealing characters like Xander and Tara who are perfect together, while hooking the reader with a suspenseful plot and mixing in a friendly environment of both new and old characters from other series (Station Seventeen & Remington Medical series) to round up the novel.
Xander in incredibly sweet and protective while Tara in determined, funny and smart. They complemented each perfectly and their banter was easy and sexy.
The Rookie is book #1 of the Intelligence Unit series by Kimberly Kincaid. It is a sexy, thrilling standalone short romance told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly PR. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3juoYFp
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
A tragic incident in her past helped Tara decide she wanted to fight for people who couldn’t fight for themselves and help seek justice. Her job has helped he do just that and she’s now in the process of putting a vicious criminal behind bars. She just needs her informant to be safe until the trial.
Xander Matthews has come a long way from his “do anything to survive” beginnings. As a rookie in the police force his intention is to make a difference while leaving his past behind. But there’s one person from his past he most certainly didn’t foresee teaming up with. As Xander and Tara work to protect a key witness, the two explore their attraction.
I LOVE starting a new series and The Rookie was a perfect short story to launch this romantic suspense series. Kimberly Kincaid skillfully creates appealing characters like Xander and Tara who are perfect together, while hooking the reader with a suspenseful plot and mixing in a friendly environment of both new and old characters from other series (Station Seventeen & Remington Medical series) to round up the novel.
Xander in incredibly sweet and protective while Tara in determined, funny and smart. They complemented each perfectly and their banter was easy and sexy.
“She was going to ruin him with nothing more than a kiss, and he was going to love every second.
The Rookie is book #1 of the Intelligence Unit series by Kimberly Kincaid. It is a sexy, thrilling standalone short romance told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly PR. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3juoYFp
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
October 14, 2020
I love an excellent romantic suspense! Especially one with a little bit of an enemies-to-lovers vibe. And The Rookie is a terrific one!
Xander and Tara are more alike than they seem at first. And their connection, their spark, their undeniable attraction makes them a pure delight.
I loved how Xander just wanted to put the past behind him—that he just wanted to do something good with his true second chance at life. And he’s an amazing police officer and human being. Something that Tara certainly doesn’t miss.
And Tara is amazing too—she’s been so focused on her career that she hasn’t taken the time for herself for anything—not even to find love. Until now.
Tara and Xander are a delight. I loved their relationship, how real and true it felt. And I loved the start of this new series and cannot wait for more. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Xander and Tara are more alike than they seem at first. And their connection, their spark, their undeniable attraction makes them a pure delight.
I loved how Xander just wanted to put the past behind him—that he just wanted to do something good with his true second chance at life. And he’s an amazing police officer and human being. Something that Tara certainly doesn’t miss.
And Tara is amazing too—she’s been so focused on her career that she hasn’t taken the time for herself for anything—not even to find love. Until now.
Tara and Xander are a delight. I loved their relationship, how real and true it felt. And I loved the start of this new series and cannot wait for more. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
October 14, 2020
Loved this action packed, emotionally thrilling adventure filled with danger, intrigue and so many engaging and witty charters. Really enjoyed every heart racing twist and exciting turn. A highly entertaining and edge of your seat read from beginning to end.
October 8, 2020
The first book in The Intelligence Series really has me looking forward to the rest of it. Xander and Tara captured me from the beginning and didn’t let me go. What a wonderful beginning by Ms. Kincaid to series that will sure to be interesting, suspenseful and so much fun.
Yes, we are back in Remington and I love the fact that we are getting a glimpse of some of the characters that we met at Remington Memorial. But, this series is totally different since we are with the Intelligence Unit instead of in the ER. The characters are just as interesting and I love that we are getting to know all of them right from the beginning. If there is something that I can always count on with Kimberly Kincaid, it’s that she knows how to build her characters, she gives us their back stories, she let’s us into their lives and makes us feel like one of the gang. The Rookie was no different.
As for the plot … well, you couldn’t have asked for a more interesting and intriguing plot line. I enjoyed the way the story flowed and how it just built to the crescendo. You knew that there had to be a little more drama than what we had in the middle of the story. Right in the beginning, you knew that the story would be full of action. She took a little break and let us enjoy Xander and Tara without a lot of it. Then, she hit you with an ending that had you holding your breath.
Strong characters, suspenseful plot line, a love story that will leave you smiling. Passion that will rock you, hearts that are closed and then open, family and friends that are supportive. Could you ask for anything more in a story? But, this story would be nothing without Xander, Tara and 28,000 rubber ducks.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Yes, we are back in Remington and I love the fact that we are getting a glimpse of some of the characters that we met at Remington Memorial. But, this series is totally different since we are with the Intelligence Unit instead of in the ER. The characters are just as interesting and I love that we are getting to know all of them right from the beginning. If there is something that I can always count on with Kimberly Kincaid, it’s that she knows how to build her characters, she gives us their back stories, she let’s us into their lives and makes us feel like one of the gang. The Rookie was no different.
As for the plot … well, you couldn’t have asked for a more interesting and intriguing plot line. I enjoyed the way the story flowed and how it just built to the crescendo. You knew that there had to be a little more drama than what we had in the middle of the story. Right in the beginning, you knew that the story would be full of action. She took a little break and let us enjoy Xander and Tara without a lot of it. Then, she hit you with an ending that had you holding your breath.
Strong characters, suspenseful plot line, a love story that will leave you smiling. Passion that will rock you, hearts that are closed and then open, family and friends that are supportive. Could you ask for anything more in a story? But, this story would be nothing without Xander, Tara and 28,000 rubber ducks.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 7, 2020
Kimberly Kincaid never fails to fully immerse me into her fictional worlds. In The Rookie, she brings readers a passionate, fast-paced, romantic suspense story that grabbed me from the start and refused to let go. It's a novella, but longer than most at 150 pages, with layered characters and emotional depth usually found in full-length novels.
I was invested in Xander and Tara almost from the beginning and enjoyed the development of their characters individually as well as the two of them as a couple. The supporting cast was equally intriguing, adding texture to the story, and the suspense factor kept me on the edge of my seat right up until the end.
In addition to meeting characters who are new to the Remington world, familiar characters from previous books (and series) set there make appearances in this story. While it's fun for fans to see them again, new readers won't miss out on anything by beginning with The Rookie. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am already excited about The Intelligence Unit series and future stories to come. If you haven't yet discovered Kimberly Kincaid, this would be a great place to start.
I was invested in Xander and Tara almost from the beginning and enjoyed the development of their characters individually as well as the two of them as a couple. The supporting cast was equally intriguing, adding texture to the story, and the suspense factor kept me on the edge of my seat right up until the end.
In addition to meeting characters who are new to the Remington world, familiar characters from previous books (and series) set there make appearances in this story. While it's fun for fans to see them again, new readers won't miss out on anything by beginning with The Rookie. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am already excited about The Intelligence Unit series and future stories to come. If you haven't yet discovered Kimberly Kincaid, this would be a great place to start.
October 10, 2020
A great start to a new series, The Intelligence Unit. A fast paced romantic suspense that kept me turning the pages till the wee hours of the morning. Loved the main characters, ADA Tara and police officer Xander. They share a sizzling hot chemistry and both have pasts that they would like to forget. They are now working together to protect a client from a dangerous killer.
This is a crossover from Remington Medical and Station Seventeen series, but can be read a stand alone. It was great to read about previous characters though. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, The Guardian. I highly recommend this book!
This is a crossover from Remington Medical and Station Seventeen series, but can be read a stand alone. It was great to read about previous characters though. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, The Guardian. I highly recommend this book!
November 6, 2023
3.5 Stars
The Rookie was an enjoyable read featuring a romance between an A.D.A. and a rookie cop working together to catch a killer.
When A.D.A. Tara Kingston receives a phone call as she's leaving the office from one of her confidential informants, she knows something is wrong and rushes to the woman's home to find that she has been attacked. With her case against a notorious crime boss coming up, Tara knows the man will do anything to derail the trial including going after their key witness. The police agree to place the woman in a safe house and police recruit Xander Matthews is assigned to her detail after he's the only person who can get the witness to open up about her attack. Tara and Xander have a history and their newfound attraction threatens to consume them both. As the date of the trial draws near and with danger mounting, Tara and Xander will have to decide how far they're willing to go for love.
Two years ago Tara tried to prosecute Xander in connection with an arson case leading to a tense first meeting between the pair in this book. Despite their initial animosity, it doesn't take long for an attraction to develop between them. Their chemistry is fantastic and I loved how much they were into each other. When their relationship progresses physically it's steamy and very well done. There are some hurdles to the pair's romance which mostly relate to the couple's different backgrounds. Xander expresses on a number of occasions that he thinks Tara is too good for him and deserves better despite her not feeling that way. While I did understand why Xander felt that way due to his background, that's not a trope I enjoy in my romances. Ultimately the pair worked through their issues though which I was happy with. The suspense plot wasn't at the forefront for most of the book and went in a few directions I didn't see coming. I thought the ending and final confrontation with the bad guy was well done.
The Intelligence Unit series is a spin-off of the author's Station Seventeen and Remington Medical series. The Rookie works well as a standalone despite being connected to two other series. There are a number of side characters in this book from the other two series which definitely has me interested in picking up those books.
Overall The Rookie was a good start to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, The Guardian, soon.
The Rookie was an enjoyable read featuring a romance between an A.D.A. and a rookie cop working together to catch a killer.
When A.D.A. Tara Kingston receives a phone call as she's leaving the office from one of her confidential informants, she knows something is wrong and rushes to the woman's home to find that she has been attacked. With her case against a notorious crime boss coming up, Tara knows the man will do anything to derail the trial including going after their key witness. The police agree to place the woman in a safe house and police recruit Xander Matthews is assigned to her detail after he's the only person who can get the witness to open up about her attack. Tara and Xander have a history and their newfound attraction threatens to consume them both. As the date of the trial draws near and with danger mounting, Tara and Xander will have to decide how far they're willing to go for love.
Two years ago Tara tried to prosecute Xander in connection with an arson case leading to a tense first meeting between the pair in this book. Despite their initial animosity, it doesn't take long for an attraction to develop between them. Their chemistry is fantastic and I loved how much they were into each other. When their relationship progresses physically it's steamy and very well done. There are some hurdles to the pair's romance which mostly relate to the couple's different backgrounds. Xander expresses on a number of occasions that he thinks Tara is too good for him and deserves better despite her not feeling that way. While I did understand why Xander felt that way due to his background, that's not a trope I enjoy in my romances. Ultimately the pair worked through their issues though which I was happy with. The suspense plot wasn't at the forefront for most of the book and went in a few directions I didn't see coming. I thought the ending and final confrontation with the bad guy was well done.
The Intelligence Unit series is a spin-off of the author's Station Seventeen and Remington Medical series. The Rookie works well as a standalone despite being connected to two other series. There are a number of side characters in this book from the other two series which definitely has me interested in picking up those books.
Overall The Rookie was a good start to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, The Guardian, soon.
September 30, 2020
Long time fans and new readers alike will love Kimberly Kincaid's return to Remington with the start of this new series. Xander and Tara met two years ago when she was tasked with prosecuting him. A lot has changed for Xander since then, now the most important things in his life are his sister and his job as a cop. As former adversaries team up to work a case, sparks fly in the most delicious way but past insecurities and a creepy killer stand in their path. Definitely a must read!!
Merged review:
Long time fans and new readers alike will love Kimberly Kincaid's return to Remington with the start of this new series. Xander and Tara met two years ago. He was atoning for the rough life he had been living and she was trying to send him to jail. Now Xander’s life revolves around his new job as a police officer and his renewed relationship with his family. Tara is still doing her best to protect the innocent and punishing the bad guys. As these two former adversaries team up to work a case, sparks fly in the most delicious way but past insecurities and a creepy killer stand in their way. I am so excited to return to Remington and the start ofnthis series! Definitely a must read!!
Merged review:
Long time fans and new readers alike will love Kimberly Kincaid's return to Remington with the start of this new series. Xander and Tara met two years ago. He was atoning for the rough life he had been living and she was trying to send him to jail. Now Xander’s life revolves around his new job as a police officer and his renewed relationship with his family. Tara is still doing her best to protect the innocent and punishing the bad guys. As these two former adversaries team up to work a case, sparks fly in the most delicious way but past insecurities and a creepy killer stand in their way. I am so excited to return to Remington and the start ofnthis series! Definitely a must read!!
September 5, 2020
Tara is the assistant DA and is about to try a guy for multiple crimes. Xander, up until two years ago, was doing bad things but now is a cop. When Tara’s witness is beaten up, they put her in protective custody until time for her to testify. Tara just has to convince Xander that he’s a good guy and to give them a chance. And keep her witness safe.
Great short story with action and sex. Can’t wait for the next book. Both had rough pasts but to move on in their life, they must leave it in the past.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
* Read as part of DANGER AND DESIRE book *
Great short story with action and sex. Can’t wait for the next book. Both had rough pasts but to move on in their life, they must leave it in the past.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
* Read as part of DANGER AND DESIRE book *
September 29, 2020
The Rookie is the first book in the brand new intelligence unit series by Kimberly and I absolutely LOVED it, you will love these characters, it has everything you will love action, suspense and heat.
If you have read the previous Station 17 and Remington Memorial series you will also see some familiar faces make an appearance!
Xander Matthew's is someone who had been through alot of bad times but has come out the other side, though he doesn't think that.
Tara Kingston is driven and passionate about her job as an ADA.
These two have a shared past, but will they be sharing their future?
If you have read the previous Station 17 and Remington Memorial series you will also see some familiar faces make an appearance!
Xander Matthew's is someone who had been through alot of bad times but has come out the other side, though he doesn't think that.
Tara Kingston is driven and passionate about her job as an ADA.
These two have a shared past, but will they be sharing their future?
September 7, 2020
This is the 4th book I read by Kimberly Kincaid. I loved ❤ this book's storyline. I loved ❤ the action in this story. I loved ❤ the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. I loved ❤ Tara's character. I loved ❤ Tara's toughness in this story. I loved ❤ Xander's character. I loved ❤ the ending. Awesome job Ms. Kincaid.
October 6, 2020
Amazon / Apple Books / Amazon Worldwide / Nook / Kobo
Tara's instantly on the go when her CI Amour calls and tells her she's been hurt. Arriving at Amour's house, though, the last person she imagined she'd see there is one of the guys she previously tried to bring up on charges. Xander's now a rookie cop, so obviously things have changed. And not just physically because he's HOT now. Still, she knows there has to be lingering resentment on his part toward her, so working with him to protect Amour until trial is going to be hard on both of them.
Except there's an attraction that neither expected. Will they give in to it? Fall in love as they fight to keep Amour safe and bring to justice the man they're all after?
This is a hot, suspenseful novella. I loved Xander and Tara together, especially when they opened up to each other and became vulnerable, explained their demons a bit. And now that I've fallen for these two, I can't wait for a lot more of the Intelligence Unit.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
October 9, 2020
Tara works for the Prosecutor’s Office and is dedicated to her job and to ensure that the guilty are punished and that the victims are protected. When Amour, a civilian whose testimony is vital to put a dangerous man behind bars, calls after she is attacked Tara can’t get there fast enough.
Xander has overcome his less than ideal past that led to some desperate choices and is now a police officer. When he and Tara both end up at Amour’s apartment the last person, he expected to see is the woman who tried to put him in jail a few years earlier.
Not only do Tara and Xander find themselves dealing with the romantic feelings between them but they are also about to find out that Amour isn’t the only one in danger. The romance between Xander and Tara is sweet and sexy and balances perfectly with the intrigue part of the story. It was also great to catch up with the other characters that we know and love.
Xander has overcome his less than ideal past that led to some desperate choices and is now a police officer. When he and Tara both end up at Amour’s apartment the last person, he expected to see is the woman who tried to put him in jail a few years earlier.
Not only do Tara and Xander find themselves dealing with the romantic feelings between them but they are also about to find out that Amour isn’t the only one in danger. The romance between Xander and Tara is sweet and sexy and balances perfectly with the intrigue part of the story. It was also great to catch up with the other characters that we know and love.
October 21, 2020
I loved this exciting story. ADA Tara Kingston is trying to take down a killer. She is suddenly having to work closely with a former defendant and currently a rookie cop, Xander Matthews.
“It had never occurred to her that she was strong for having survived.
“I’ve definitely never thought about it that way,” she admitted.
The edges of Xander’s mouth lifted, just enough to ease the moment. “You should. You’re like a lawyer warrior.”
Tara and Xander sort out their pasts as they navigate danger. The novella length was a perfect bite sized story. It was my first book by this author and definitely could be read as a standalone but left me excited to read more stories in this world.
-5 Stars-
“It had never occurred to her that she was strong for having survived.
“I’ve definitely never thought about it that way,” she admitted.
The edges of Xander’s mouth lifted, just enough to ease the moment. “You should. You’re like a lawyer warrior.”
Tara and Xander sort out their pasts as they navigate danger. The novella length was a perfect bite sized story. It was my first book by this author and definitely could be read as a standalone but left me excited to read more stories in this world.
-5 Stars-
September 25, 2020
The Rookie is the first of Kimberly Kincaid’s The Intelligence Unit series, and it was an enjoyable quick read. I didn’t quite fall in love with it, but it made for quick and easy reading.
The Rookie is a story that easily pulled me in, although I did find the information dumps a bit distracting. Despite this and the fact I had to suspend my belief about certain details, the story had me eager to see how the pieces would come together. I enjoyed watching the story play out and the characters come together, although I would have liked a bit more depth and for there to be a bit more to the ending.
All in all, not perfect, but a fun quick read.
The Rookie is a story that easily pulled me in, although I did find the information dumps a bit distracting. Despite this and the fact I had to suspend my belief about certain details, the story had me eager to see how the pieces would come together. I enjoyed watching the story play out and the characters come together, although I would have liked a bit more depth and for there to be a bit more to the ending.
All in all, not perfect, but a fun quick read.
September 28, 2020
The Rookie by Kimberly Kincaid sucked me right in with fast paced and action filled story line. And the suspense was balanced very well with the steam and feels. Intriguing characters kept me engaged and the writing delivered all the emotions perfectly.
Tara Kingston has only one objective in her life as ADA. To bring justice. And she is ready to take any risk. She is on way to take down one of the biggest criminals in Remington. But her primary informant and key person to testify against Amour is attacked. And she is determined to save Amour and protect this girl at any cost. Even if she has to work with Xander. The guy from the wrong side of the track who has come to the right side as a cop and also the guy Tara tried to send to jail two years back.
Tara has a lot of fire in her. I love to read about strong women and she definitely is one of them. She has experienced some horrifying things in past. But she got back herself together and transformed the pain into determination and fierce attitude. Xander has a complicated and scarred past. And he doesn't believe he can redeem himself. Tara had to show him repeatedly that he is actually an honest and amazing guy with strong morals. Well he is obviously gorgeous as sin with certain air of confidence and arrogance. That's too attractive. They have nuclear hot chemistry. And they took care of each other's emotional needs. The story has plenty of drama and action that added to the complexity.
The Rookie by Kimberly Kincaid was a sexy and dramatic take on lawyer- cop love story. This was interesting and intriguing to say the least.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Tara Kingston has only one objective in her life as ADA. To bring justice. And she is ready to take any risk. She is on way to take down one of the biggest criminals in Remington. But her primary informant and key person to testify against Amour is attacked. And she is determined to save Amour and protect this girl at any cost. Even if she has to work with Xander. The guy from the wrong side of the track who has come to the right side as a cop and also the guy Tara tried to send to jail two years back.
Tara has a lot of fire in her. I love to read about strong women and she definitely is one of them. She has experienced some horrifying things in past. But she got back herself together and transformed the pain into determination and fierce attitude. Xander has a complicated and scarred past. And he doesn't believe he can redeem himself. Tara had to show him repeatedly that he is actually an honest and amazing guy with strong morals. Well he is obviously gorgeous as sin with certain air of confidence and arrogance. That's too attractive. They have nuclear hot chemistry. And they took care of each other's emotional needs. The story has plenty of drama and action that added to the complexity.
The Rookie by Kimberly Kincaid was a sexy and dramatic take on lawyer- cop love story. This was interesting and intriguing to say the least.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
October 8, 2020
The Rookie is the first book in the Intelligence Unit series from Kimberly Kincaid. A shorter version of the novella was in the Danger and Desire: A Romantic Suspense Anthology, but the edition released on October 6, 2020 has more content. The Rookie is Xander Matthews and Tara Kingston's story.
First, I adored both Xander and Tara from page one. Xander has completely turned his life around following a bad patch in his past. He not only has put his past behind him, but become a police officer to protect and serve. Tara has been driven to find justice since her best friend was killed in a random convenience store robbery when they were in college.
Xander and Tara grew up so differently, yet I felt their connection immediately. They worked so well together and I loved they seemed to open up so much with each other. They also had an intense chemistry and I loved them together so much.
I really loved the suspense elements to The Rookie. I’m a huge fan of romantic suspense, and felt like Ms. Kincaid did a great job keeping me guessing about what would happen next.
While many of the characters in the series are from Ms. Kincaid's Station Seventeen series and Remington Medical series, I was able to read The Rookie as a stand-alone without reading some of the other series yet. I can’t wait to read more books in the Intelligence Unit series!
Rating: 4 Stars (B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
First, I adored both Xander and Tara from page one. Xander has completely turned his life around following a bad patch in his past. He not only has put his past behind him, but become a police officer to protect and serve. Tara has been driven to find justice since her best friend was killed in a random convenience store robbery when they were in college.
Xander and Tara grew up so differently, yet I felt their connection immediately. They worked so well together and I loved they seemed to open up so much with each other. They also had an intense chemistry and I loved them together so much.
I really loved the suspense elements to The Rookie. I’m a huge fan of romantic suspense, and felt like Ms. Kincaid did a great job keeping me guessing about what would happen next.
While many of the characters in the series are from Ms. Kincaid's Station Seventeen series and Remington Medical series, I was able to read The Rookie as a stand-alone without reading some of the other series yet. I can’t wait to read more books in the Intelligence Unit series!
Rating: 4 Stars (B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
September 11, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this anthology and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
The Rookie by Kimberly Kincaid:
This was a suspense romance. Tara is an ADA working a case to bring down Sansone. Her key witness, Amore, is an employee of Sansone’s. When Amore is attacked, she called Tara who is turned 9-1-1. Xander Matthews, is a police rookie. He and his partner are the first to arrive at the scene. Xander makes a connection with Amour. Tara arrives and she and Xander realize that they “know” each other. Two years ago, Tara was trying to prosecute Xander. He grew up in the rough section of town and had to do some bad things to survive. Tara and Xander, all with the Intelligence Unit, try to keep Amour alive to testify against Sansone.
The suspense of working the case along with the sparks between the two main protagonists, made for a gripping read. I enjoyed the dual POV format. That really helped to identify with Xander and made the character really likeable and more human.
This is a sexy read. There is a graphic scene that should not be read by someone under the age of 18. Also there is several “f” bombs that are dropped that may offend one or two.
The Rookie by Kimberly Kincaid:
This was a suspense romance. Tara is an ADA working a case to bring down Sansone. Her key witness, Amore, is an employee of Sansone’s. When Amore is attacked, she called Tara who is turned 9-1-1. Xander Matthews, is a police rookie. He and his partner are the first to arrive at the scene. Xander makes a connection with Amour. Tara arrives and she and Xander realize that they “know” each other. Two years ago, Tara was trying to prosecute Xander. He grew up in the rough section of town and had to do some bad things to survive. Tara and Xander, all with the Intelligence Unit, try to keep Amour alive to testify against Sansone.
The suspense of working the case along with the sparks between the two main protagonists, made for a gripping read. I enjoyed the dual POV format. That really helped to identify with Xander and made the character really likeable and more human.
This is a sexy read. There is a graphic scene that should not be read by someone under the age of 18. Also there is several “f” bombs that are dropped that may offend one or two.
October 12, 2020
I'm very excited about this new series from Kimberly Kincaid, because romantic suspense is my jam. The Rookie is a short(ish) read, and I really loved it though I was whining about it not being longer because I didn't want it to end. Tara Kingston is an ADA in the Remington District Attorney's office, and loves her job taking the bad guys down. She's been working on a big case for a cool minute, and it's definitely dangerous. She has her star witness who she's trying to protect until they get to trial but that witness was hurt, and when she goes to see her, she runs into someone she tried to arrest in the past. Xander's past isn't the best, but he's now a rookie cop, and he loves the new job. He & his partner get to the CI's house first before Tara gets there, and now they're working together to keep the CI safe. And that's all that I'm going to give up because it's just better to read this amazing story of suspense with a steamy kicker for yourselves. So hit those one click buttons because I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
December 15, 2020
The Rookie (Love the Name) has just the right amount of Romance, Action, Suspense and Thrill and it feels great to give a book a 5-Star rating after a long slump. This was my first read by Kimberly Kincaid but it definitely won’t be my last.
Workaholic Assistant District Attorney Tara Kingston and Rookie Patrol Cop Xander Mathews first met two years ago, when she wanted to prosecute him for a crime he didn’t commit.
After some awkwardness when they first meet at a crime scene, the two of them really connect with each other! They explore their newfound feelings while doing their best to protect a key witness in Tara’s trial.
Apart from Tara and Xander, readers meet several amazing and endearing secondary characters in this short book. I now can’t wait to read each of their stories!
Dual POV, Third Person (which I’m not too fond of)
Safe - No Cheating
No OM/ OW Drama: They actually met off page two years ago (not romantically) but there is no mention of them being with other people since then.
HFN/ No Epilogue
Workaholic Assistant District Attorney Tara Kingston and Rookie Patrol Cop Xander Mathews first met two years ago, when she wanted to prosecute him for a crime he didn’t commit.
After some awkwardness when they first meet at a crime scene, the two of them really connect with each other! They explore their newfound feelings while doing their best to protect a key witness in Tara’s trial.
Apart from Tara and Xander, readers meet several amazing and endearing secondary characters in this short book. I now can’t wait to read each of their stories!
Dual POV, Third Person (which I’m not too fond of)
Safe - No Cheating
No OM/ OW Drama: They actually met off page two years ago (not romantically) but there is no mention of them being with other people since then.
HFN/ No Epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2020
Thrown together to keep a witness safe and secure, the last person Rookie cop Xander Matthews thought he would be involved with is a blast from his past Tara Kingston. What had ended very poorly between the two once again explodes into something they both never saw coming. But doing his job will be tricky when his feelings get in the way. Can you ever find love again even when you have to resurrect your past? With strong but lovable characters this was a fantastic read from Kimberly Kincaid. What was once a small story has turned into a fast moving and action packed novel that was a joy to read.
March 14, 2021
So worth the read!
So I went backwards. I read Garza’s story first, then came to find out more about Tara and Xander. I was NOT disappointed. There’s drama and danger all around, but this group thrives on both, so they’re able to continue functioning and finding their way through. Tara and Xander were so perfectly matched that I was only a little sad to see that this was a novella. She’s a tad high-strung at times, he’s an expert at distraction to take the stress down a few notches, and together they just work wonderfully. I can’t wait for the third book in this series now.
So I went backwards. I read Garza’s story first, then came to find out more about Tara and Xander. I was NOT disappointed. There’s drama and danger all around, but this group thrives on both, so they’re able to continue functioning and finding their way through. Tara and Xander were so perfectly matched that I was only a little sad to see that this was a novella. She’s a tad high-strung at times, he’s an expert at distraction to take the stress down a few notches, and together they just work wonderfully. I can’t wait for the third book in this series now.
September 29, 2020
Couldn't put it down!! I loved Xander and Tara - true opposites attracting and combusting but both working "for good"! I loved their chemistry, but also that they could be themselves and honest with each other despite their different pasts. Add in the crime-stopping and suspense and it was a fast read! I can't wait for the next in the series!
I was fortunate to win an ARC of this book but will purchase when available!
I was fortunate to win an ARC of this book but will purchase when available!
September 13, 2020
The humor drew me in, the suspense forced me to stay. Xander and Tara are complex characters with a lot history – both together and separately. I loved their chemistry, with each other and all the rest of the people around them. It was easy to get sucked into this story, and now I want to read about the rest of the Remington residents.
December 17, 2020
Captivating Novella!! This is a great beginning to a new series. Xander is a little flawed but has a big heart. Tara is a strong, independent, kind of a loner until she runs into Xander for a second time at the scene of a crime. These two together are perfect for each other. It’s good in the suspense category and the ending was a heart-stopper. I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for more.
Want to read
August 5, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/5/2025)! 🎁
September 22, 2021
Tara is an upper class, kick bu// attorney that cares so much for people. I know it has to be a surprise to see Xander as a cop after she tried to prosecute him a couple years ago. Luckily he is a different person. Now he wants to make up for his past and do the best he can to get the bad guys off the street. I was heart broken when one of Tara’s CI’s was beaten and left for dead. The good that came out of that though was how Xander and Tara started working together and got to know each other. I enjoyed the book and encourage you to read it.
April 24, 2022
4.5 Rookie Stars🌟
The Rookie is the first story in the Intelligence Unit and features Tara, the ADA and Kennedy’s brother, Xander, who is now working as a Rookie Cop.
I’ve held out on starting this series purely due to time restraints but decided this morning to give it a go. I really enjoyed the start to this series…I enjoyed the characters and I’m looking forward to finding out more about this unit and the people in it❣️
The Rookie is the first story in the Intelligence Unit and features Tara, the ADA and Kennedy’s brother, Xander, who is now working as a Rookie Cop.
I’ve held out on starting this series purely due to time restraints but decided this morning to give it a go. I really enjoyed the start to this series…I enjoyed the characters and I’m looking forward to finding out more about this unit and the people in it❣️
October 9, 2020
The Rookie
Really enjoyed Zander and Tara's story. I think I'm really going to enjoy this latest series of books set in Remington.
Really enjoyed Zander and Tara's story. I think I'm really going to enjoy this latest series of books set in Remington.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews