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Linear Tactical #7-9

Linear Tactical Boxed Set 3: Echo, Phoenix, Baby

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Books 7-9 of the bestselling LINEAR TACTICAL SERIES in one low-priced set: ECHO, PHOENIX, and BABY

ECHO
Sometimes the deepest scars are the ones that can't be seen.

Cade Conner might not have been a Special Forces soldier, but he knows how to fight. And Peyton is a woman worth fighting for.

•••••
PHOENIX
You have to burn before you can rise.

Extreme sport sensation Riley Harrison will find the biggest danger has nothing to do with risk, and everything to do with the heart.

•••••
BABY
Don't let the name fool you.

He has secrets buried deep under his charming smile that could change everything.

912 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 27, 2020

276 people are currently reading
37 people want to read

About the author

Janie Crouch

263 books2,026 followers
USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.

After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.

Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.

Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com

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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Anita.
2,646 reviews218 followers
December 3, 2021
I love the men and women of the Linear Tactical family so much I actually spent money on these books. Anyone who knows me knows that I never buy a book unless I love the author and can't get it any other way. So, am I satisfied? Yes, very much so. Janie Crouch has really matured into an awesome author. Her Harlequin short novels were great, but these longer Linear Tactical Series books are fantastic.

Echo: 4-Stars
Echo follows a predictable path . . . until it doesn't. Peyton Ward had dreams of a career in film production. Instead, she is a single mom who is working hard to provide a better life for her daughter, Jess. She works part time, flexible jobs so she can be the best mom she can be. They don't pay a lot, but her time with Jess is what counts the most. It was not her choice to be a single mom, but life happens.

Cade O'Conner is a country music superstar and the scion of the wealthy first family of Oak Creek, WY. When he decided to take his shot at Nashville, he left behind a girl who had supported and encouraged him to pursue his dream. One of his investments was as a partner in Linear Tactical and guys he has known all his life.

When Cade returns to Oak Creek and finds out that life for Peyton did not turn out as she planned he is devastated to learn he was responsible. Making it right, well how can he possibly do that? The only thing he can do is take responsibility and protect her as best he can. Danger is stalking them both, but Cade knows that Peyton is more than worth protecting with his life.

Phoenix: 5-Stars
This is one of the more emotion driven books in this series. Some heavy issues and some very real problems that a lot of us must face. I knew at the end of the last book that nurse Girl Riley (Wildfire) had some sort of a medical issue. It has caused her to breakup with extreme sports competitor Boy Riley (Phoenix). Like the true competitor he is, Phoenix is not taking this announcement and fading into the sunset. No, he gets right in Wildfire's face, making her see that he isn't going anywhere.

Phoenix is the very best and defeat is not a word in his vocabulary. After Girl Riley pronounces that they are through, he drops everything and heads to Oak Creek, Wyoming to compete in a race he has already won once. Been there, done that, have the 1st Place Trophy to prove it, no need for a redo. But, Girl Riley is the medical staff for the six day race and Phoenix needs answers that Girl Riley isn't giving him.

In addition to the distraction with Girl Riley, Phoenix has to focus on actually competing in one of the most difficult, challenging and intense competitions. There is little room for error and Phoenix finds that there may be someone out to do more than sabotage his plan for a repeat victory.

Baby: 5-Stars
I love this series and I love Janie Crouch. She has really grown as an author since her first book and "Baby" is one of her best yet. This younger man, older woman romance has so many layers that you don't even miss the pulse pounding action in her other books. I have waited for Baby's story since the start of the series and was surprised that Janie Crouch chose to pair him with an older woman.

Blake "Baby" Bollinger is the easy going, likable, town mechanic, part time Linear Tactical operator, and drop dead gorgeous, hot body, man. But, beneath his easy going exterior, Baby is hiding some not so easy secrets. When he meets Boy Riley's big sister, he is totally blown by her.

Dr. Quinn Harrison-Pritchard is now having a very good year. A lot of things are going totally wrong and when she is fired from her Harvard teaching job, and can't find anything else, she is forced to move the Oak Creek, Wyoming, where her younger brother lives. She take a part time job at a state college and a part time job as the lunch waitress at the Eagle's Nest just to make ends meet. Her first look at Baby Bollinger is hot enough to melt her panties. Too bad, on her second look, she decides that he is just to young for her, but boy, is he hot. When he pursues her, well what's a red blooded woman to do but let him catch her.

Unfortunately, Quinn's bad luck has followed her to Oak Creek. As the incidents ramp up, it looks like this is a lot more than bad luck and even as Quinn questions what is really happening and why, Baby just knows that there is a real threat to the woman he loves.
893 reviews13 followers
November 28, 2020
Echo
Janie Crouch

Things happen in your life and you never know about it. Can you correct it 5 years later when you do find out and you realize all you have missed? Cade is certainly going to try and do that with Peyton.
A great read of misguided thoughts, actions, and deeds have kept them apart and now an unseen force wants to keep it that way. Can Cade save Peyton, prove what she thinks is wrong, and forge a happy
ever after?
Once I started reading it I couldn’t stop.

Phoenix
Janie Crouch
Once again a Linear Tactical that has nonstop action, suspense, and romance. A hidden enemy who is desperate and a hidden enemy health wise can either draw Phoenix and Rylie apart or together keeps you reading until the very end. Very close to being my favorite

Baby
Janie Crouch
What can I say about Baby? He is a very caring person who keeps a deep dark secret that is an embarrassment to him. If people find it out, he feels that they will not think well of him. Along comes Quinn with her own issues that she is having to deal with. One issue is she is older than Baby and doesn’t want to fall for him.
Two lost souls brought together for a purpose. Will they be able to find their destiny? A definite late night read that has you not wanting to put it down until the end.
A sensitive subject that many face handled with love and grace.
My favorite of Linear Tactical Series so far.
2,295 reviews18 followers
November 29, 2020
This author is my go to author and this box set says it all...
Echo - Holy smokes this author does it again with another page turning read that had me glued to the seat. Peyton is a single mom and works for Linear, cleaning their offices part time. Her four year old daughter Jess, has captured the hearts of everyone at Linear and is one smart cookie. She doesn’t know her dad and Peyton doesn’t want her dad, Cade, to know about her. Cade a country singing star and has returned home after many years and actually runs into Peyton, the only woman he has ever loved but he doesn’t understand why she looks like she’s afraid of him and runs away....and their story begins and it’s not to be missed.
I LOVED these two and how devoted Cade was to Peyton and what he does to show her that yes, he has thought of her over the years....melted into a puddle. Not only that but Peyton, a strong woman who will do anything for her precious daughter. Can’t forget Jess, what an adorable little girl who steals the scene more than once but not to be undone by Ethan, her eight year protector and that scene with him and Cade....WOW.
This story has it all, steam, suspense, amazing characters, twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Once again the story flows beautifully and doesn’t miss a beat but I shouldn’t be surprised since this author is one of my go to’s when I want a read that is filled with the above and no over the top drama....5 stars
Phoenix - YES!!! Boy and girl Riley finally get their story and man oh man...what a story. These two have been together for awhile and out of the blue, girl Riley breaks up with boy Riley but he is having none of that and comes back to Oak Creek to face his girl and while there joins the annual WAR that’s set up in the wilderness by the Linear boys.
I could read this book again and again and again as it’s not your typical read from this author and it didn’t diminish anything...nada...zero..zilch...nor did the story lack in any way. These two have a relationship and one is trying to repair it....they’re not strangers or past friends getting a second chance, they are established, in love, and have been a great couple for years, heading towards marriage down the road.
An amazing read with steam, a love that is lasting and learning to live and support each other with news that alters two people’s course in life, standing beside one another, no matter what. And of course the obstacle course that lasts days in the wilderness testing endurance and physical abilities, sprinkle a bit of suspense with action when lives are in danger, with a surprise twist as to who did the sabotage and you have another out of the park hit by this author.
Once again the story flowed beautifully, the characters were amazing, and the descriptions were spot on...5 stars
Baby - Oh baby....baby....baby....I want my own Baby after this read. This author once again delivers a read that had me glued from the first word to the last and had me second guessing myself on my favorite characters and read from her.
Baby is a mechanic and meets Quinn, who is a University professor and older than him. Their age doesn’t bother him and sets out to prove to Quinn that it shouldn’t bother her either. Quinn moves to the small town where her younger brother has relocated for a fresh start after a disastrous end to her career at her University. She is working part time at the College in town and part time waitressing.
Both Baby and Quinn have their own secrets and as they open up to each other, one of them finds out the reason for their downfall is more than meets the eye.
I’ll say it again...oh baby...baby...baby....Baby is the book boyfriend for everyone and I dare you not to fall for him after reading this.
This read has it all...steam...ahem...steam...oh my...yes...a bit of suspense throughout the read....secrets revealed....amazing characters throughout....some teary eye moments....and a story that flows beautifully without skipping a beat....and the extended epilogue with Baby and Quinn, warning you may need a box of tissues beside you....5 stars
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
662 reviews
April 20, 2022
Secrets.
Peyton has been hiding a secret from Cafe (Echo) for five years. Girl Riley is hiding what she just discovered from Boy Riley (Phoenix) and wants to end their relationship. Quinn is not being open with her brother, Boy Riley, or with Baby. Baby has been keeping his secrets from all his family and friends for most of his life. When everything comes out in the open, it will effect everyone.
6,527 reviews27 followers
November 30, 2020
This is the latest box set in this wonderful series that I can guarantee once you start you will be addicted While each can be read as a stand alone they are far better in my opinion if read in order and now with the first nine books available in box sets you can grab them all. After saying that I am impatient with this series and read each book the moment it is available so I will copy my reviews below
ECHO
Peyton and her daughter Jess have been regulars throughout this entire series and now we finally get her story and what a heart wrenching story it is. No one has ever knows who Jess's father was but finally the truth comes out it is the silent partner of Linear Tactical and country singing star Cade Connor (O'Connor). When Cade finally discovers the truth he is determined to get back the only woman he has ever loved but with danger circling and Jess getting caught up in the stalker that Cade has acquired you just know that Linear Tactical will need to help What they don't know is that the danger is much closer than any of them realise. Will Peyton forgive Cade will he forgive his family and can they have a future together. Once again this is a book that draws you in from the very first page and keeps you engaged I always know that when I pick up one of Janie's books I am in for a very late night because I can never stop reading until I turn the last page but I have to say my local take away loves it.
PHOENIX
This is the eighth book in this wonderful series and I think this may be the most emotional of them all. Riley Harrison (Phoenix) and Riley Wilde(Wildfire) are meant to be together They have made a relationship work for three years Phoenix spends most of the year travelling with his career as a extreme sport and YouTube star but with the help of Skype text and many hours of flying the have managed to make it work. Now Phoenix feels as though Wildfire is pulling away from him and he is devastated when she tells him she wants to break up. This man never admits defeat and there is no way he is going to let the woman he loves walk away from him without answers. In getting those answers Phoenix will put his life at risk when the past comes back to haunt him and Wildfire will realise when she almost loses him that what she thought was insurmountable wasn't They can still have a future together if they are both willing to work for it. Then the unthinkable happens when Phoenix's work for Linear Tactical puts the woman he loves at risk with the help of the team will he be able to save her in time.
This book has a different feel to it from other books in the series there is a little less emphasis on danger from assignment and more emphasis on the problems people face in life and how ones reaction to those problems affect you
BABY
I love the guys and gals of Linear Tactical and in this the latest offering we get to catch up with two previous met characters. Blake (Baby) Bollinger is the younger brother of Finn Bollinger who we met in Eagle he never joined the military like his brothers or friends but he is just as skilled as them instead he went on to work at a local garage a garage he will inherit from his predecessor as long as he complete a bachelor degree and he has been given seven years but time is almost up and it looks like he could lose the business. When he first meets Quinn Harrison-Pritchard who is the older sister of boy Riley he is instantly attracted but she has a past that no one knows about Why is a Harvard professor working in a diner and a small local college to make ends meet. As the attraction between them grows there secrets come out and danger closes in on Quinn will Baby face his own demons and find that in fact is family will love him no matter what and will do everything they can to help him.

Do yourself a favour and grab this entire series you won't be disappointed and there is a good chance you will become an addict just like me.
Profile Image for Jo-Anne.
1,756 reviews38 followers
November 29, 2020
These books were fantastic! If you are a romantic suspense fan (like I am) you'll love them.

Echo
I loved this book! It's my favourite of all the Linear Tactical books. And that's saying something because all of them are terrific.

Peyton is a single mom working 3 jobs to give her daughter, Jess, a good life. As a financial backer for Linear Tactical, Cade wasn't one of the team but he did have skills to protect himself and Peyton. Those skills sure came in handy. He grew up with money and now that he's a music superstar, he has more than he'll ever need. Peyton's life was the complete opposite.

I'm glad Peyton and Cade cleared up their misunderstanding fairly quickly so they could move on in a relationship. Between the romance and suspense, I needed to know what would happen next and couldn't read fast enough. I loved the children. They added some humour to this story. Jess was only 4 but was so smart she seemed older. Ethan was such a cutie. This little guy made it his responsibility to protect Jess. This made perfect sense since he intended to marry her when they were older.

Romantic Suspense fans are going to love this book. I sure did. It had me feeling happy, sad, intrigued, angry, hopeful and frustrated. It’s a good read that will leave you smiling.

I was lucky to receive a copy for review consideration.


Phoenix
Like all the Linear Tactical books, this was a fantastic romantic suspense. But, unlike the others, this one was heavy on the romance with not as much action. This is Boy Riley (Phoenix) and Girl Riley's (Wildfire) story. They met 3 years ago at a WAR competition where Phoenix was competing and Wildfire was a nurse. I loved how you could really feel their intense love. Phoenix travelled a lot for competitions but they didn't let it interfere with their relationship. Everything was going well for them. That was until Girl Riley got some news that made her feel she needed to let Boy Riley go. He was away at the time but went back to Oak Creek to find out why she wanted to break up with him.

Even though this book was mainly about Boy Riley and Girl Riley's relationship, there was still drama, danger and action along with it. That ending! It left me feeling all warm and happy. Complete with a big sigh and goofy smile. I was so glad to get a complimentary copy of Phoenix so I could share my thoughts. If you like romantic suspense with all the feels, Phoenix is a must-read.


Baby
What a wonderful book! I loved it and would give it more than 5 stars if I could.

Baby was such a wonderful man, always helping others. But never let them see that he had problems of his own. I was so happy when he found love. Quinn couldn't believe it when Baby started pursuing her. Not only was she much older than him, but she also didn't have a job and was broke. Why would he love her? Easy question to answer. Because she's intelligent, beautiful and a good person.

Not only is this a wonderful romance, but also a great suspense that will have you guessing right to the end.

If you are a romantic suspense reader, don't miss this book.

I can't tell you how glad I am to have gotten an ARC of this book for review consideration. This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Dawn Myers.
1,299 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2020
Echo Review: I really liked this book, but found Peyton's side a little unbelievable, even so I liked her. I found Peyton struggle, determined and made Jess her number one priority. Cade I had a little more trouble with, I appreciated his determination. The good things about Cade once he found at about Jess, he did everything he could do for her and Peyton. Janie Crouch gave me the suspense, steam and action I look for. I did figured out who was behind everything, the minute he was introduced to the story. I was happy to get to know Peyton.

Phoenix Review: Let me just say first I knew all the twist that would be thrown at me from the start. That is not what caused the 4 stars instead of 5. Girl Riley got on my nerves with the woe is me attitude. I understood her trying to come to terms with things, but not the making decisions for Boy Riley. I really loved Girl Riley in the other books, so her attitude was a little disappointing for me. I loved Boy Riley and his determined actions not to let Girl Riley go. Overall I did enjoy Phoenix, but wanted a little more from Girl Riley.

Baby Review: Overall the story is okay, but Quinn's age is brought too much. I understood Quinn's insecurities but she needed to loosen up and appreciate Baby's loyalty and the fact Baby wants to be with her. I had everything figured out pretty early in the story, I was okay with that, I kept reading to see if I was right about things and I was. I really enjoyed the bonus epilogue.

Overall this boxed is pretty good, but was missing something for me to give 5 stars, I found it a little to predictable. I enjoyed this boxed set and was entertained. I read on Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,894 reviews41 followers
December 5, 2024
Moving story that also has issues of interference in lives, jealousy, stalking and manipulation. Second chances, love, romance plus action and suspense. This was a powerful read, it took its place in my heart along with all the other books and characters in this phenomenal series. Each story slightly different but each has at least one character that feels broken for one reason or other, Peyton is so strong though, she has done what she needed to do for her very special daughter. Emotional
What an absolute rollercoaster of a story, fabulous characters, interesting and heart breaking plot. Full of twists, turns and ups and downs, quite literally. Even when weak or ill you can be the strongest you need to be if circumstances dictate it. I don't know how either Riley survived this one intact but they did. Phew, no CPR needed! I'm breathing again.

Baby has a secret, he has kept most of his life but it looks like he might have to open up. Quinn also has secrets and they are not good, meeting Baby finally gives her something better to focus on, until things start going wrong again. It takes a determined and faithful man to stand with Quinn and see through all the evidence that points in one direction and a team to help save when the climax hits. Another must read in what is a fabulous series and well worth reading.
Profile Image for Angela.
3,372 reviews33 followers
June 30, 2021
A fantastic series

I have really enjoyed this series. I love that it also includes not only the Linear Tactical team itself, but also their friends and blood relatives, which all are a part of this unconventional family. Each story is unique, suspenseful, mysterious, and has a terrific HEA for each couple. It's not a series that you'll want to miss.
I am kind of torn by the bonus epilogue's after Phoenix and Baby's stories. On one hand they were great and informative, but on the other hand it discussed situations that haven't happened yet. That wouldn't be such a big deal except that the couples mentioned have already had their own stories told (and the new information was far beyond where those left off). I'm curious to see if there will be any further incidents including them that will give the answers to the many questions that I now have. I guess I'll have to wait and see. I think it would've been better to release the bonus epilogue's either further along in the series, or only given the information that pertained to the current characters, and the rest later.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
Profile Image for Christine Jalili.
2,187 reviews44 followers
November 30, 2020
Awesome box set.

I loved all three books in this set. I always wondered about Jess’ Dad, why Peyton was a single Mom. My heart ached for Cade and Peyton. But who is Cade’s stalker?
The next story is about boy Riley (Phoenix) and his girlfriend, known as girl Riley ( and he calls her Wildfire). I felt for them, why did she break up with him? It’s obvious she still loves him, but what’s going on? Lots of suspense, and some danger.
On the last story, loved how Baby falls for Quinn. But there’s some questionable things going on, is she sabotaging herself or is it someone else? Had some tears when Baby tells his secret. They are so good for each other, it’s very heartwarming. Each story has a very happy ever after. I’ve loved each book in this series and how they tie in with each other. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Lynne.
447 reviews10 followers
November 29, 2020
So I've read all the Linear Tactical series, many times and now Janie Crouch has box sets out of the series. What can I say? Well I love all these books, there aren't any that I dislike. Once I hear there is a new book coming out I reread the whole series again to bring me up to date with the characters and the storylines. So if you're into any type of security protection series these books are for you. Guaranteed. I've already review these books individually so really just want to recommend you take a look, promise you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Ashley Jean.
444 reviews
February 10, 2021
Amazing

I love this series. This box set - Echo, Phoenix, and Baby - is another incredible addition to the first six books. I love how strong these characters are. There’s strength in their physical bodies, their resolve, their determination, and so much strength in their love for each other.

My only problem is the bonus epilogue. Mention of Ghost and Wraith’s kids...I think I missed something because I have no idea what that is all about. Maybe I missed a book? Anyway. Love this series.
334 reviews
January 17, 2024
Fantastic books!

Anyone looking for romance and suspense will be smiling with satisfaction after reading Echo, Phoenix and Baby's books. Three men with different skill sets but who operate as brothers and family in the way they support each other through ups and downs. These men find love with the women they choose Peyton, Girl Riley and Quinn. All the stories have mystery, danger, hurt and love. The story are actions packed exciting and intriguing. These are page turners. You won't be disappointed.






95 reviews
November 6, 2021
Janie Crouch hits this series out of the Park!

This Linear Tactical series is simply incredible. You can't put a book down until it is done then the next one is the same. Each book is so different but the interweaving of this amazing cast of characters is so intriguing, so insightful, so wonderful, you cannot wait to read the next one. Superb series. Baby and Quinn are spectacular together.
Profile Image for Gayle.
89 reviews3 followers
March 30, 2021
Fantastic Reads

I love the usual wonderful romantic suspense. However, the great thing about this series of books is how the author incorporates the family theme throughout the book. Once again the author demonstrates family does not have by blood, race, etc. The closeness of family comes from love and kindness.
845 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2021
Wow

While I loved and binged all three books, BABY really got to me. If you have a dyslexic person in your life this book will resonate with you.
Again, five stars, but there’s still editing glitches and misplaced words that I’d like to see resolved. The stories are good enough that it’s easier for me to ignore them.
962 reviews6 followers
November 30, 2020
Great as always

These three are great additions to Janie's Linear Tactical series. I love the series. Each book is unique in it's own right, with great characters that you cone to love.
Profile Image for Jo Pilsworth.
Author 15 books194 followers
January 14, 2021
So glad I found this series

Thoroughly enjoying this series. Unlike some, each book has a completely different suspense element, although I don’t enjoy the extra epilogues as they give too much away.
Profile Image for Sydney Hopke.
1,380 reviews18 followers
August 31, 2023
Great Set!

Love this series! Even better getting stories in a set so you don’t have to stop reading and go get the next one! On to the next story and hopefully meet Baby’s baby soon!
785 reviews4 followers
November 9, 2023
More Linear Tactical

This box set featured characters who were more outlying than the usual Linear Tactical crew. I particularly liked Baby's story as well as keeping up with the lives of previous characters.
4 reviews
November 29, 2023
a series that has unique story lines for each book is rare!

Very well done, normally the stories start to all sound the same in a long series but I am impressed with how they are so different while still including all the characters. Great read!
Profile Image for Maya.
1,759 reviews
February 22, 2021
Echo was great. Phoenix was fantastic. Such strong men who never have up on their women. Baby lost me. Truly had to skip to the ending. Hope the next one in the saga is better.
Profile Image for Val Woolley.
386 reviews4 followers
February 22, 2021
This is another great to art of this series of books each story so different but including friends and families, well worth reading.
Profile Image for Rita Whinfield.
1,573 reviews
March 6, 2021
Happy Ever After

Love these Linear Tactical stories. The sense of family pervades all of the stories. Baby and Quinn so good for each other.
Profile Image for KDLediting.
1,757 reviews4 followers
April 28, 2021
5 stars

I love box sets! But when you can get multiple books this wonderful all in one place, don't ever pass it up
5 reviews
March 29, 2021
I have so enjoyed this whole series and feel like I am part of this Wyoming family now!
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